November 12, 2008

www.dvidshub.net (search phrase: Expeditionary Times) Vol. 1, Issue 21

A balancing act Arizona resident: From vice principal to 557th557th mixesmixes intelligence analyst see pg. 5 thingsthings upup storystory onon pg.pg. 88

‘The word is spreading’ Training pushes limits see pg. 7

546th ASMC Indiana Guard unit: ‘All good things must come to an end’ U.S. Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour Spc. Julian Ramirez of El Paso, Texas, cleans the axle of a Heavy Equipment Transporter (HET) trailer during a 5-year service at Joint Base Balad see pg. 11 Oct. 30. Ramirez, an active duty Soldier with the 557th Maintenance Company from Fort Irwin Calif., has been deployed for 13 months. Iraqi logisticians train for independence by Spc. Kiyoshi Freeman and British armored personnel to identifying problems in the parts and reliable maintenance tion partnership — this mentor- Expeditionary Times Staff carriers. current system. “From here, we was still necessary to become ing process – are the Logistics Servicing and repairing this work as a team to come to solu- self-sufficient. Training Assistance Teams, or TAJI, Iraq – When you think wide range of vehicles was one tion sets,” he said. In the past the IA was de- LTATs, spread across the 3rd of an army, images of the key issues discussed dur- With so many vehicles in its pendent on Coalition support to ESC’s area of operations. of sleek, lethal- ing a two-day logistical train- fleet, Iraq must import most of sustain its fighting forces. Iraq- Composed of detachments looking tanks ing exercise at the Taji National its spare parts from different is have recently taken their own of American Soldiers or entire and armored Maintenance Depot here Oct. 27 countries, said Capt. Randall steps to increase their logistical units, LTATs train and mentor vehicles may and 28. Weiser, a liaison officer between capabilities. their counterparts in IA sustain- come to Approximately 250-300 Iraqi 1st SB and the IA. This requires The Taji National Mainte- ment units. At the Third Line mind — not and Coalition officers attended a sophisticated inventory man- nance Depot and the Taji Na- Maintenance Facility here, Spc. Ford F-350 the event, the first of its kind. agement system, Internet data- tional Supply Depot here cen- Nathan Collins, an East Lan- pick-up trucks. However, such “It was both a historic and bases, and trained personnel, he tralizes Iraq’s logistical support, sing, Mich., native and a main- a vehicle is simply one of over monumental event,” said Col. said. and Iraqis established a General tenance advisor in 1st SB LTAT, 200 types of vehicles in the Kevin O’Connell, the command- Iraqi Col. Wihed, the com- Transportation Regiment and works with Iraqi mechanics dai- Iraqi Army arsenal, which has er of 1st Sustainment Brigade, mander of the south depot at the Third Line Maintenance Fa- ly, showing them how to repair everything from Soviet-era T-72 3rd Sustainment Command Taji, said the IA received good cility here, mentored by Soldiers tanks (once part of the Hungar- (Expeditionary), adding that equipment over the last year, with the 1st SB, 3rd ESC. See LOGISTICS, ian army) to American humvees the last two days were critical but the transportation of spare The heart of this Iraqi-Coal- Page 4 PAGE 2 Expeditionary Times November 12, 2008 332 ESFS Blotter: Legal advice: Family 25 Oct. – 30 Oct. Mnor Vehicle Accident: A Soldier reported to Security Forces his involvement in a minor vehicle accident. SF Patrols responded to his location and assisted matters, deployments the Soldier in filling out a statement of the events. The Soldier by Army Pfc. Jaclyn Mims separation. self in an honorable manner stated that while pulling his vehicle forward, he struck another The more time that a couple with regard to parental com- parked vehicle causing damage to the parked vehicle and scratch- 224th MI paralegal spends apart, the easier it be- mitments and responsibili- es to his vehicle. SF personnel recorded the damage with digital o you and your spouse comes for them to grow apart, ties, photography and briefed the Soldier to inform his chain of com- mand about the incident. have marital prob- form new friendships, and ne- 3) Providing adequate fi- Medical Response: Dlems? If you do, you glect personal affairs. nancial support to Family Fire personnel contacted Security Forces in reference to a medical are far from being alone. Although you may be geo- members, and emergency at the East Gate involving an injured local national’s According to studies con- graphically separated from 4) Complying with all court injury. SF patrols arrived on-scene and were informed by EMT ducted by matrimonial law- your spouse and/or children, orders. that the LN would be transported to the AFTH for further treat- yers, the top three causes of you still have certain obliga- The bottom line is that the ment. SF response was terminated. separation and divorce in tions. geographical separation creat- Minor Vehicle Accident: couples are infidelity, finan- While you are deployed, ed by deployment may appear An Air Force Member contacted Security Forces regarding a mi- cial problems and poor com- make sure that you under- to make marital problems nor vehicle mishap. SF patrols arrived on-scene and assisted the munication. stand your obligations un- more difficult to manage. member in completing a statement. The member stated that he Unfortunately, these prob- der Army Regulation 608-99 However, the key to mini- was parked adjacent to the H-6 Housing fence and an unknown lems contribute to the high (Family Support, Child Cus- mizing the strain on your re- object shattered the back window of his vehicle. SF patrolman number of divorces. tody, and Paternity). lationship is good communi- recorded the damage with digital photography and informed the The United States Census Army Regulation 608-99 cation. member to report the mishap to his chain of command. Bureau reports that, on aver- explains Army policy and Remember that you are not Assault/GO1B Violation: age, about 957,200 divorces Soldier responsibilities with the first person (and certainly A TCN Contractor entered the Bldg. 7168/Eagles Nest to report are finalized every year in the regard to financial support will not be the last person) to an altercation between two of his fellow employees. Complain- United States. When you com- of Family members, child experience relationship prob- ant further stated that he believed both individuals involved were pare the number of divorces custody, child visitation, and lems. intoxicated. SF Patrols responded to the scene and made contact to the number of marriages related personal affairs. The You also have many people with the TCNs. SF determined the individuals to be intoxicated every year (about 2,355,005), regulation prohibits using and resources that can assist and in need of medical attention due to the injuries sustained dur- the divorce rate seems awfully military status or assignment you in resolving your prob- ing the fight. Both individuals were transported to the AFTH and high. to avoid financial support of lems, such as the chaplain, treated. The subjects were then taken to Bldg. 7168/Eagles Nest With such a high number of Family members. chain of command, and legal and placed in detention cells. The complainant stated he would divorces, it may be tempting In addition, Soldiers must assistance. return later in the day to assist the subjects with their statements to feel discouraged with your conduct their personal affairs Finally, if you have any spe- concerning the altercation. own marriage. in a manner that does not cific questions about your re- Patrol Response/Loud Noise Complaint/GO1B Violation: It may also seem extremely bring discredit upon them- sponsibilities under AR 608- Security Forces was contacted in regards to a loud noise com- hard to find the right balance selves or the United States 99, please contact the Legal plaint in H-6 Housing. SF Patrols arrived on-scene and made between work, personal, and Army. AR 608-99 states that Assistance Office at DSN 433- contact with two individuals causing the noise. Upon contact, Family obligations. a Soldier’s responsibility to 2836. patrolmen discovered them to be intoxicated and non-compliant. In the military, maintaining his/her Family includes: We are always willing to The individuals were placed under apprehension and transported to the AFTH for blood tests to determine the levels of influence. good communication is very 1) Maintaining reasonable assist you with your legal af- The subjects were then transported to Bldg. 7168/Eagles Nest and important to having a suc- contact with Family members fairs to make it easier for you placed in the detention cells. Unit leadership was contacted and cessful relationship. Soldiers so that the Family’s financial to focus on completing your the subjects were released. and their Families face many needs and welfare do not rise mission and safely returning additional stressors such as to the level of requiring inter- home. Contact the Provost Marshal Office: deployment, limited commu- vention by the Army, NIPR- 443-8602 nication, and geographical 2) Conducting himself/her- SIPR- 241-1171 Email- [email protected] EXPEDITIONARY TIMES 3d ESC Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Mike Lally Managing Editor Production Editor Contributing Public Affairs Offices Expeditionary Times is authorized for publication by the Maj. Paul Hayes, 3d ESC Sgt. Alex N. S. Snyder, 123rd MPAD 1st Sustainment Brigade 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) for the Joint [email protected] [email protected] 16th Sustainment Brigade Base Balad community. The contents of the Expedition- 371st Sustainment Brigade 123rd MPAD Commander Photo Editor ary Times are unofficial and are not to be considered the 7th Sustainment Brigade official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Maj. Christopher A. Emmons, Spc. Brian A. Barbour, 123rd MPAD 123rd MPAD [email protected] 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing including the Department of Defense or Operation Iraqi [email protected] Freedom. 555th Engineer Brigade Layout and Design 55th Sustainment Brigade Expeditionary Times is a command information news- 123rd MPAD NCOIC Spc. Mario A. Aguirre, 123rd MPAD paper in accordance with Army Regulation 360-1 and 1st Sgt. Reginald M. Smith, [email protected] 402nd Army Field Support Brigade reviewed by the ESC G2 for security purposes. 123rd MPAD CJSOTF-AP Expeditionary Times is published weekly by the Stars [email protected] Staff Writers Task Force 34 and Stripes central office, with a circulation of 8,000 Sgt. Crystal G. Reidy, 123rd MPAD d papers. 3 ESC PAO NCOIC [email protected] Distribution d d The Public Affairs Office is located on New Jer- Sgt. 1st Class David McClain, 3 ESC Spc. Michael Behlin, 3 ESC Spc. Kelly A. Beck, 123rd MPAD [email protected] [email protected] sey Ave. Building 7508, DSN 318-433-2154. [email protected] Spc. Kelly A. Beck, 123rd MPAD Expeditionary Times, HHC 3d ESC, APO 3d ESC G2, Security Manager [email protected] AE 09391. Web site at www.dvidshub.net Lt. Col Dale Davis, 3d ESC Spc. Kiyoshi C. Freeman, 123rd [email protected] MPAD Contact the Expeditionary Times staff at: [email protected] [email protected] Pfc. Amanda Tucker, 3d ESC [email protected] Mission Statement: The Expeditionary Times Staff publishes a weekly newspaper with a primary mission of providing command information to all Servicemembers, part- ners, and Families of the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) team and a secondary mission of providing a means for units on Joint Base Balad to disseminate command information to their audiences. November 12, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 3

World’s largest! ‘Hooah’ Soldier of the week

Courtesey photo 2,216 people form the world’s largest yellow ribbon at Fort Knox, Ky. The previous U.S. Army photo by Spc. Michael Behlin world record of 1,358 people was set at the U.S. Army Garrison-Ansbach in Germany Master Sgt. Andrew McArdell, a Denver, Colo., native and medical opera- on May 14, 2008. The Fort Knox Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation office is plan- tion noncommissioned officer in charge with the d3 Sustainment Com- ning to submit the photo and documentation to the Guinness Book of World Records. mand (Expeditionary), is congratulated by Brig. Gen. Michael Lally, the 3d ESC commanding general, for being selected as this week’s “Hooah Soldier of the Week”

Worship services PROTESTANT – TRADITIONAL ROMAN CATHOLIC MASS Sunday 7:30 a.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel (Sacrament of Reconciliation 30 min. prior to Mass) 9:30 a.m. Provider Chapel Saturday 5 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 10:30 a.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) 8 p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) 11 a.m. Castle Heights (4155) Sunday 8:30 a.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 5:30 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 11 a.m. Provider Chapel 7:30 p.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel 11 A.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel PROTESTANT – GOSPEL Mon-Sat 11:45 a.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 11 a.m. MWR East Building Thursday 11 a.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel Noon Freedom Chapel (West Side) Mon,Wed,Fri 5p.m. Gilbert memorial 12:30 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) Friday–Holy Hour 7 p.m. Provider Chapel 7 p.m. Provider Chapel LATTER DAY SAINTS-(LDS)-(MORMON) PROTESTANT – CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP Sunday 1 p.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 9 a.m. MWR East Building 3:30p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) 10:30 a.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 7 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 2 p.m. Castle Heights (4155) JEWISH SHABBAT SERVICES 8 p.m. Eden Chapel Friday 6 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 7 p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) Saturday 8 a.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 8:30 p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) 6 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) Wednesday 8 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) ISLAMIC SERVICE PROTESTANT – LITURGICAL Friday 12:30 p.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 11 a.m. Lutheran-Provider Chapel PAGAN/ WICCAN FELLOWSHIP 3 p.m. Episcopal- Lutheran Gilbert Thursday, Saturday 7 p.m. Eden Chapel Chapel (H-6) BUDDHIST FELLOWSHIP PROTESTANT --MESSIANIC Tuesday 7 p.m. Eden Chapel Friday 8:30 p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) Protestant – Spanish Non–Denominational PROTESTANT—SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Sunday 4:15 p.m. Gilbert Memorial Chapel Saturday 9 a.m. Provider Chapel EASTERN orthodox- Devine liturgy PROTESTANT—CHURCH OF CHRIST Sunday 9 A.m. Provider Chapel Annex Sunday 3:30 p.m. Castle Heights (4155) *Please note, schedule is subject to change. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: Gilbert Chapel: 443-7703 Provider Chapel: 433-2430 Freedom Chapel: 443-6303 PAGE 4 Expeditionary Times November 12, 2008

LEFT: While standing on a map of Iraq, Iraqi army officers respond to a scenario during a logistical training exercise at Taji, Iraq on Oct. 28. The 1st Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Sus- tainment Command (Expeditionary), is currently mentoring the Iraqi Gen- eral Transportation Regiment and the Third Line Maintenance Facility here, both of which would enhance the logistical capability of Iraqi secu- rity forces.

U.S. Army photo by Kiyoshi Freeman

LOGISTICS, from better and grasping the Iraqis would solve logisti- Page 1 things they need to do . . . cal problems themselves. We’re proud to work with In his closing re- humvees. our Iraqi partners.” marks, Maj. Gen. Timothy Collins said he felt con- During the exercise, McHale, the senior logisti- fident to ride in any vehicle some IA officers began cian from Multi-National the Iraqis repaired. He said referring to how sustain- Forces—Iraq, said the Co- that being able to “maintain ment operations used to alition would continue to their own vehicles (allows) run. Iraqi Staff Lt. Gen. work hand-in-hand with them to provide their own Abdullah, the deputy chief the IA to find solutions to security and will help them of staff-logistics for Iraqi these new challenges. U.S. Army photo by Kiyoshi Freeman become self-reliant.” Joint Headquarters and the “The logisticians’ sole ABOVE: Maj. Gen. Timothy McHale, the senior logistician from Multi-Na- “The Iraqis feel there host for the event, inter- purpose,” McHale said, “is tional Forces - Iraq, shares his closing remarks with Iraqi Staff Lt. Gen. is someone standing by rupted and said the focus to support the warfighter.” Abdullah, the deputy chief of staff-logistics for Iraqi Joint Headquarters, their side,” said O’Connell, of the training would not during a two-day logistical training exercise held at Taji, Iraq on Oct. 27 whose unit was one of the be on what the Coalition and 28. McHale said the Coalition would continue to work together with their Iraqi partners until the Iraqi army was ready to stand on its own. first to incorporate LTATs. would or have done for the “Every day they’re getting IA in the past, but how the

U.S. Army photo by Kiyoshi Freeman ABOVE: From left to right, Brig. Gen. Keith Walker, the Iraq Assistance Group Commander, and Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, the commander of 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), listen to a translation as Iraqi army officers brief Coalition Forces during a logistics symposium held at Taji, Iraq on Oct. 27. The 1st Sustainment Brigade, 3d ESC, currently mentors the General Transportation Regiment and the Third Line Main- tenance Facility here.

U.S. Army photo by Capt. Audrey Iriberri ABOVE: Spc. Nathan Collins, a maintenance advisor with 1st Sustainment Brigade, from East Lansing, Mich., works together with Iraqi mechanics on a humvee engine at the Third Line Maintenance Facility at Taji, Iraq. Collins said he felt confident to ride in any vehicle the Iraqis repaired, and that being able to “maintain their own vehicles (allows) them to provide their own security and will help them become self-reliant.” November 12, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 5 591st MLC keeps supplies stocked, ready

story and photo by of the 591st MLC, says the unit’s goal has section can receive four or five truck- workload is still the same but the envi- Spc. Anthony Hooker been to provide life saving medical sup- loads a day, depending on the season. “If ronment is better. Expeditionary Times Staff plies to Warfighters. Thomas, a native of our counterparts in receiving don’t tell “The last time (I) was here, we worked Birmingham, Ala., says the unit met the us what’s coming or if my group is not in tents,” says Alvarado. “The equipment JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – For Department of the Army standard of 62 updating statuses, we are not able to do took a beating. Now that we are under a just over a year, Soldiers percent for demand accommodation af- command and control.” hardened area, dust is still an issue, but assigned to the 591st ter 130 days in theater, a fact her office Byars says they often deal with high- it’s much less than when we worked un- Medical Logistics Com- says has never been done previously in dollar, high-visibility equipment, so he der tents.” pany have provided di- Iraq. Although proud of the accomplish- says it’s important to be conscientious of Occasionally going to outlying areas rect support to Task ment, Thomas says it is her hope that Army dollars and other people’s involve- to fix broken equipment, Alvarado says Force, brigade and the percentage rises to 90 percent by the ment. the customers let him know how impor- Corps Medical units time her unit leaves theater. “Earlier in the year, we lost track of an tant the company’s services are. throughout Iraq. Receiving supplies from U.S. bases in item that was loaned out to a customer,” “Our customers tell us (they) appreci- Since November 2007, the 70-mem- Germany or Qatar, the items are identi- Byars says. “It was eventually found in e- ate what we do,” Alvarado says. “It’s very ber company from Ft. Sam Houston, fied and marked and shelved. The 591st mail traffic, but that was a $92,000 item motivating when you hear it from people Texas has received, stocked and shipped MLC keeps over 1200 lines of items on that was almost lost . . . something a per- who use it.” medical items, run a single and multi-vi- stock at the warehouse, making sure cus- son could have thrown right sion optical lens fabrication and repair tomers are fully mission capable. When in the back of a humvee.” lab, and provided a medical maintenance a product is scheduled to be moved, it The 591st MLC reports shop for customers assigned missions on must be done using a material release that they have saved over behalf of Operation Iraqi Freedom. order, which identifies items and verifies 14 million dollars in re- The 591st MLC, nearing completion their proper destinations. stock. Byars says whatever of their 15-month deployment, reports Sgt. Matthew Byars, the medical main- the situation, the priority is that they service over 400 different units tenance shipping noncommissioned of- to make sure items are ac- on a monthly basis. ficer, accounts for items as soon as they counted for. The 591st MLC hosted nearly 100 cus- arrive at the warehouse. Whether receiv- “I may never touch the tomer representatives in the inaugural ing incoming equipment that needs re- equipment but the account- Medical logistics conference in February pair or performing inspections on new or ability is still mine,” says and three Iraqi medical officers in April. swapped-out equipment, Byars says the Spc. Emmanuel Alvarado, During each event the 591st provided in- handoff is key, as a breakdown can lead a medical maintenance re- Spc. Bryan Ashe, a medical supply specialist with the struction, knowledge and understanding to major problems. pair technician who worked 591st Medical Logistics Company, stacks supplies in the cold storage container at the Class VIII (medical of medical logistics operations. “The right hand must know what the in the medical warehouse supplies) warehouse Aug. 29. Ashe is a native of San Capt. Shondra Thomas, commander left hand is doing,” Byars says, whose in 2005. Alvarado says the Antonio, Texas. Soldier balances leadership role at home, in the Army by Spc. Michael Behlin cational side of the organization, which I and Relationships. As far as his new position within the Expeditionary Times Staff currently work.” The program’s objectives were for par- Army is concerned, Jones considers it to As a vice-principal, Jones is respon- ticipants to learn through experiences in be different from his first stint as a Sol- JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Many sible for 12 teacher’s aides whom he su- order to gain trust. Many of the youth dier. Life as an intelligence analyst is Soldiers join the military pervises and trains. Jones deals with daily in his civilian job different from that of an engineer. More to gain knowledge, lead- These job responsibilities are much have trust issues, and this program was a of Jones’ duties consist of working at a ership skills, and serve different than those that are expected of way to teach them how to gain it. computer than performing the manual their country. him as a junior Soldier. While all Sol- Jones began his Army career in 1992 labor required of engineers, but he says In today’s Army, diers are expected to be leaders regard- as a combat engineer, serving for four he has made the most of it. many Soldiers are less of rank, Jones admits that he has years. During his enlistment, he became Those who work with him have taken joining the ranks had to take a different approach to his a noncommissioned officer as a corpo- notice to his leadership qualities. more prepared, Army career. ral. Jones later left the Army and had a “He has been working special projects with more life experience, and with many for us, including integrating new systems members enlisting after college or prom- into our daily operations,” says Maj. Ste- inent careers in the civilian sector. “I may not wear the rank here, but ven Powell, 3d ESC military intelligence All this can be said about Spc. Jeffrey deputy. “He has been very effective in Jones, a Tucson, Ariz., native, and re- I do feel as if I contribute something this role and has shown tremendous ini- servist who works as an intelligence ana- tiative in organizing our data. His matu- lyst with the 3d Sustainment Command larger than myself,” rity and attention to detail have put him (Expeditionary). in position to replace me when we I go on Jones is also a vice-principal with the Spc. Jeffrey D. Jones leave.” Arizona Children’s Association, which 3d Sust. Cmd. (Expeditionary) Even though his role within the Army offers more than 40 child welfare and and life have changed this time around, behavioral health programs that fall into “Coming here has been much differ- five-year absence from service. After re- Jones says he is comfortable with his de- three categories: intervention, preven- ent for me because I’m only a specialist, turning to the military, Jones had to start cision to rejoin the service he knows and tion and permanency. so my mindset and rank are on different over as a private first class and work his loves. The work he’s done with his past With his civilian position, the father levels,” Jones says. “It’s comforting in a way back up in rank. and current units, coupled with his civil- of two brings many positive attributes way to not have to be in charge, but the With his most recent military stint, ian capacity, has provided a helping hand to the Army that many younger Soldiers people I work with respect my opinions Jones re-enlisted because of a reason in this matter. have yet to be exposed to or lack. and I’m able to talk very openly about which he said he feels to be a cliché these “With the choices I’ve made that’s “I started working for the Arizona what I think about things happening days, but is very respectable and admi- gotten me to where I’m at today, I’m very Children’s Association 11 years ago as a around me.” rable. proud of who I am, I’m proud of what I’ve residential counselor working with emo- Even as a junior Soldier, Jones says “After 9/11 I started thinking about done and the things I’ve accomplished,” tionally, behaviorally disordered adoles- he feels as if he brings much to the table rejoining the military, and I was a proud Jones says. “I may not wear the rank cents and at-risk youth and it just grew in the form of leadership. While in his member before and just decided to come here, but I do feel as if I contribute some- from there,” Jones says. “I’ve worked position as vice-principal, he started the back in and give it another whirl,” Jones thing larger than just myself. I’m part boys and girls dorms, instructed thera- LEADER Program, which is an acronym says. “This time around I just knew I was of the bigger picture and I don’t think I peutic crisis intervention courses, sub- for Learn Effective Alternative Decision a little older and not as hooah as I used to would change anything.” stance abuse programs, and in the edu- making through Experiential learning be, but I decided to try again.” PAGE 6 Expeditionary Times November 12, 2008 Personal security detail to end tour by Army Sgt. Crystal Reidy Andrews said his unit needed to be learned protective services tactics and Thus far, the unit has successfully Expeditionary Times Staff ready at all times. PSD teams are on how to conduct anti-ambush opera- protected every person they’ve escort- standby if the Commanding General tions. ed. JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq - needs to be escorted. Another 14 Soldiers attended spe- The journey has not always been - Many Indiana Army “Our vehicles and equipment have to cial reaction team school learning spe- smooth. One convoy came under small- National Guardsmen arms fire after insurgents hit one convoy here are preparing to with an improvised explosive device. conclude a nine-month Soldiers from the unit received two Pur- deployment as the ple Heart medals, three combat action Personal Security badges and one combat medic badge. Detail for the 3d Spc. Kattie J. Elridge, a lead scout Sustainment Com- driver from Switzerland County, Ind., mand (Expeditionary) at the end of No- deployed for the first time with the unit vember. and said she could not have imagined The detail, which is part of the 76th what it would be like in Iraq. Infantry Brigade Combat Team from “When you hear people talk (about Lafayette, Ind., the PSD team will hand Iraq) you get an idea of what it is like,” over their mission to A Company, 181st Eldridge said. “This was nothing like I Brigade Support Battalion from Seattle, expected.” Wash. Eldridge said she wouldn’t mind com- Over the last several months, the PSD ing back to Iraq but only if she could do team has had two missions, but one goal: the exact same job. keep people safe. “It’s a big adrenaline rush being lead They did this by providing security to scout; telling the convoy what they are general officers, distinguished visitors going to see ahead,” Elridge said. “It’s a and vulnerable personnel on base. blast.” They also served as security for these U.S. Army photo by Spc. David E. Caldwell Elridge said she also enjoyed the peo- personnel during convoys across Iraq. Soldiers from the personal security detail, 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team 3rd ple they protected. She said the people During their deployment, the unit Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), pose in front of their vehicles here Oct. 26. they escorted they were always profes- protected such distinguished visitors as The Indiana Army National Guard unit from Lafayette, Ind., prepares to conclude sional and gave them compliments. Vice President Dick Cheney, Secretary their nine-month deployment and hand over their mission to A Company, 181st Bri- “They (escorted visitors) let us know of Defense Robert M. Gates, Secretary gade Support Battalion out of Seattle, Wash. they were confident in us and would go of the Army Pete Geren, General Da- out with us again,” said Elridge. vid Petraeus and Iraqi Prime Minister be ready,” Andrews said. “A normal day cialized team responses to high-risk Spc. Brent H. Crouch, an M-240 gun- Nouri al-Maliki. is preparing things to be ready. So when situations such as barricaded subjects, ner from St. Paul, Ind., said the deploy- 1st Lt. Scott Andrews, the team’s offi- you get the call, you load up the truck, hostage situations and counterterrorist ment has made him consider a new ca- cer in charge, said escorting well-known get the latest intel and you go.” operations. reer. guests isn’t any different than escorting Andrews said arriving in Iraq with a “The training was important because “This deployment has been a lot anyone else. well-trained team has added to the mis- working on a PSD team is not a tradi- of good training for law enforcement, “We do the same as we always do; sion’s success. tional combat military police mission,” “Crouch said. we have a standard for everything,” An- Prior to arriving in country, the PSD Andrews said. “It’s good we have trained Andrews attributes the success of this drews said. “We might have more per- received special training for the mis- for it.” deployment to his team. sonnel assigned to the team, but our sion. When the unit leaves country in late “The Soldiers have stepped up and standard operating procedures are the Eight team members attended pro- November they will have completed shined during this mission,” Andrews same for everyone.” tective services training, in which they over 60 PSD missions. said. Unit begins new ‘Baron University’ for Q-West by Army Spc. Sean Dillard sity of some type to keep their work- Bde. headquarters Oct. 5. “The return job related equipment training in the 16th SB Public Affairs ers proficient in their job level task,” that the Army gets on its investment signal field. Walters said. “Baron University takes could be a future warrant officer or a “I think it will help out with the pro- CONTINGENCY OPERATING it a little further to prepare for future government contractor.” fessional growth of Soldiers,” said Sgt. BASE Q-WEST, Iraq — Signal Sol- jobs in the IT (information technol- Baron University is a new way to Walter Ashcraft, joint network node diers and leaders from ogy) field.” develop signal skills and certifications operator, from the 16th STB. the 16th Special Troops For others, the classes are an op- Battalion, 16th Sustain- portunity to refresh their job skills. ment Brigade, started “After being out of tech (technical) a program to allow “I think it will help out with the school for almost two years, I’ve had Department of De- no experience in networking though fense personnel professional growth of Soldiers.” that is what my school was all about,” here to get techni- said Tech. Sgt. Rick Fried, U.S. Air cal certifications and college credits Sgt. Walter Ashcraft Force. “I would like a refresher and to for computer programs and systems. 16th Sust. Bde. build on my experience.” The program, known as “Baron Uni- Also, the signal Soldiers are plan- versity,” will also allow Soldiers to get ning to have classes for entry-level promotion points and training in sys- students to learn basic troubleshoot- tems they are interested in, regardless Education and on-the-job train- in a peer teaching environment for ing for their workstations. of their military jobs, said Chief War- ing are important in developing com- Soldiers and Officers, Walters said. The classes will begin in November rant Officer Dannie Walters, network petent Soldiers and leaders, Walters One goal for the program is to es- and are planned to run every other operations, from the 16th Sust. Bde. said. tablish a testing center for certifica- month. Prerequisites to participate in “All Signal warrants (warrant offi- “Teaching others works,” Walters tion in CCNET, CCNA, A+, Comptia the program will be on the SharePoint cers) usually start a network univer- said, during a briefing at the 16th Sust. Network +, Comptia Security + and portal. November 12, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 7

LEFT & ABOVE: Iraqi recruits exercise and train while going through the basic-training style indoctrina- tion of “Hell Week” with the national Emergency Response Brigade. Trained by Iraqi instructors, and ad- vised by Coalition forces Soldiers, the recruits are going through the first week of a five-week selection course to train new men to join the national counter-terrorism units. If they succeed, they will continue the efforts of the Iraqi government in bringing safety and security to Iraq. ERB selection course pushes recruits to physical limits story and photos by school-educated men narrowed down used to this kind of physical punish- experience to either transform new re- Air Force Staff Sgt. Mike Meares the field of selection to 217 men. ment.” cruits or usher them to their breaking CJSOTF-AP Public Affairs “It’s crucial we have a selection pro- A bell sits at the front of the train- points. cess,” says a Coalition forces sergeant ing area and rings out to the entire Ding, ding, ding! serving as a technical advisor. “We go group every time a man decides he The sound of the bell turns every Editors Note: Names have been after [wanted criminals and terrorists] can’t continue the training. The sound head to see another recruit quit. witheld from this story for operation- and need skilled and intelligent peo- of the bell announces defeat, as one al security purposes. ple who can handle the intensity of the man after another, breathing heavily, y the second day, 23 more train- high-value missions.” calls it quits. Sixteen men ultimately Bees ring the bell, further thinning JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Applicants from Mosul to Basrah rang the bell during day one, signaling out the crowd of men, leaving the oth- Wrenched in pain, their had to complete a physical-fitness test, the end of the training for them; they ers pushing to complete training. The faces hover inches from medical screening and biological met- cannot continue. Iraqi and Coalition instructors’ goal is the ground. Large rics. The physical fitness test weeds “Every man has a breaking point,” not to kick men out of the program, drops of sweat drip out those who are not physically ca- says one of the Iraqi men from the but to prepare the Soldiers to battle from their noses and pable of making it through training. Tikrit area waiting to turn in his uni- an insurgency threatening Iraqi prog- fall to the dusty, “We will find out here who can form and boots after ringing the bell. ress. rocky ground. An [handle] missions and who cannot,” “I have found mine.” “We are preparing them to fight instructor yells says the senior Iraqi instructor. “We According to the training advisors, criminals and terrorists,” the senior out instructions to complete another never know what kind of conditions the training is designed to initiate Iraqi instructor says. “Anything can set of push-ups. will challenge us while on a mission. self-motivation. They also says most happen. Our men need to be physi- The Iraqi national Emergency Re- If they comply with orders here, they of the Iraqi trainees, ages 18 to 45, cally and mentally superior to the en- sponse Brigade is conducting “Hell will comply on mission.” have never done any type of training emies.” Week,” or the first of a five-week se- The sun-up to sun-down training as physical as this before. One trainee, a resident of Basrah, lection course to train new recruits to pushes the trainees through dozens of The training is conducted from be- hung up his hammer as a construc- join the national counter-terrorism obstacles across a hard, rocky ground, ginning to end by Iraqi instructors tion worker to provide a better living units, continuing the efforts of the pushing the men to their physical lim- who are veteran members of one of for his family. He says he also wants to Iraqi government to bring security its. The applicants have a varied range the national units. They are hand se- be a part of a team that helps keep his and safety to Iraq. of experience. Some of them have lected from active units. They com- family and countrymen safe. He says “The word is spreading about the prior Iraqi security forces training plete a 12-week, train-the-trainer he feels bad every time he hears the good reputation ERB has,” says a Co- while others have little to no training course to learn how to conduct basic bell ring, but uses the sound to moti- alition forces staff sergeant. “A lot of at all. Prior training or not, successful combat-skills training, then spend an vate himself to push on. guys want to be a part of it.” completion of the course is not guar- additional three weeks learning how “It’s okay, I can take it,” he says, There were more than 500 appli- anteed. to teach with professional aids. As talking about the physical intensity of cants from Baghdad, 1,500 from Mo- “This is hard on these guys,” says a seasoned operators who know what it sul area and 2,800 from Tikrit. The Coalition forces training tactical ad- takes to survive while on mission, they See ERB, Page 12 selection criteria of high-quality, high- visor and ERB mentor. “They are not marry these newly-learned skills with PAGE 8 Expeditionary Times November 12, 2008

BELOW: Soldiers from the 557th Maintenance Company out of Fort Irwin, Calif., and Communication Electronics Command civil- ian Rick Tauares pose for a photo at Joint Base Balad, Iraq Oct. 30. story by Spc. Kelly Beck the maintenance equipment they had at FOB Speicher was busy conducting to working the generators that power NotThe soldiers work whatunder Tauares, maintaining and fixing genera- photo s by you’dSpc. Brian Barbour brought with them. Instead of turning expect... about 120 convoy recovery missions. security systems on base. They also tors that power security systems on base. Expeditionary Times Staff wrenches, they were assigned to secure “We have done so much,” Williams maintained humvees, Heavy Equip- the north, south and east entry control says. “And everyone has had such ment Transporters, and repaired JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – From points to the base. a great attitude. I just get so proud weapons, as other tasks on JBB. the moment their boots After only about a week of training, thinking of all the things we have done. One task included taking inventory hit the ground in Iraq, they took over the three ECPs. The soldiers have gotten so much ex- of “FOB in a Box” kits – kits which the 557th Maintenance “It definitely isn’t what we thought perience out here.” include everything needed to create a Company from Fort we would be doing, but I loved it,” says Not only did the 557th help improve new FOB. Irwin, Calif., was Spc. Simon Danielson, a 557th Soldier. the ECPs, they also trained Air Force “Things are a lot more relaxing tasked out with We each had our strong points and we personnel and contract security to take now,” says Spc. Madeline Brown, from missions that aren’t shared our knowledge with each other them over. the 557th who first worked at an ECP what you might and watched out for each other.” “We ran the ECPs, went on several and now works on base generators. expect of a maintenance unit. 1st Sgt. David Williams says that patrols into local villages, spoke with “It’s more of a 9 to 5 where I can have Of the 215 Soldiers that make up after maintaining the ECPs for about a sheiks, arranged times to have kids more of a daily routine because the the company, 50 were sent to Forward month and a half they were given the come to the ECPs and give them toys, ECPs were hectic.” Operating Base Speicher to conduct opportunity to suggest ways to im- trained how to run an ECP and now we Now, with two months left in their convoy recovery missions, one was prove them. are doing almost a little bit of every- deployment, many of the Soldiers are sent to Mosul and the rest were sent to “Three million dollars was put into thing,” Williams says. ready to go home. Joint Base Balad. improving the structure and lay out Eleven months into the company’s “I miss my family so much, and I Regardless of their location, they of JBB’s ECPs and we designed many scheduled 15-month deployment, the can tell you, if it wasn’t for being able share one thing in common; they did of the improvements that were used,” unit was recalled to JBB and were to go home and see them, I’ve had a what was asked of them. says Capt. Beau Taylor, the 557th com- quickly scattered across the base do- great time here and wish I could stay,” At JBB, the 557th’s shipping con- pany commander. ing many different jobs. These jobs Williams says. tainers remained untouched because While part of the unit helped im- included everything from uploading their mission didn’t require using prove the ECPs, the company’s team and downloading M1 Abrams tanks

ABOVE: Spc. Shane McAulay of Norton, Mass., moves a Brad- ley Fighting Vehicle in the convoy receiving supply point, or CRSP, at Joint Base Balad, Iraq on Oct. 30. McAulay, a Soldier on a 15-month deployment with his unit, the 557th Maintenance Company from Fort Irwin, Calif., has the job of loading and un- loading tracked vehicles at the CRSP.

BELOW: Spc. Matthew Hall of Hanna, Texas, a Soldier with the 557th Maintenance Company from Fort Irwin, Calif., and DOD ci- vilian Ronald Jones with the Red River Army Depot out of Texar- kana, Texas, check fluids in a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. November 12, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 9

story by Spc. Kelly Beck the maintenance equipment they had at FOB Speicher was busy conducting to working the generators that power Not what photo s by you’dSpc. Brian Barbour brought with them. Instead of turning expect... about 120 convoy recovery missions. security systems on base. They also Expeditionary Times Staff wrenches, they were assigned to secure “We have done so much,” Williams maintained humvees, Heavy Equip- the north, south and east entry control says. “And everyone has had such ment Transporters, and repaired JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – From points to the base. a great attitude. I just get so proud weapons, as other tasks on JBB. the moment their boots After only about a week of training, thinking of all the things we have done. One task included taking inventory hit the ground in Iraq, they took over the three ECPs. The soldiers have gotten so much ex- of “FOB in a Box” kits – kits which the 557th Maintenance “It definitely isn’t what we thought perience out here.” include everything needed to create a Company from Fort we would be doing, but I loved it,” says Not only did the 557th help improve new FOB. Irwin, Calif., was Spc. Simon Danielson, a 557th Soldier. the ECPs, they also trained Air Force “Things are a lot more relaxing tasked out with We each had our strong points and we personnel and contract security to take now,” says Spc. Madeline Brown, from missions that aren’t shared our knowledge with each other them over. the 557th who first worked at an ECP what you might and watched out for each other.” “We ran the ECPs, went on several and now works on base generators. expect of a maintenance unit. 1st Sgt. David Williams says that patrols into local villages, spoke with “It’s more of a 9 to 5 where I can have Of the 215 Soldiers that make up after maintaining the ECPs for about a sheiks, arranged times to have kids more of a daily routine because the the company, 50 were sent to Forward month and a half they were given the come to the ECPs and give them toys, ECPs were hectic.” Operating Base Speicher to conduct opportunity to suggest ways to im- trained how to run an ECP and now we Now, with two months left in their convoy recovery missions, one was prove them. are doing almost a little bit of every- deployment, many of the Soldiers are ABOVE: 1st Sgt. David Williams, sent to Mosul and the rest were sent to “Three million dollars was put into thing,” Williams says. ready to go home. with the 557th Maintenance Com- Joint Base Balad. improving the structure and lay out Eleven months into the company’s “I miss my family so much, and I pany from Fort Irwin, Calif., talks Regardless of their location, they of JBB’s ECPs and we designed many scheduled 15-month deployment, the can tell you, if it wasn’t for being able to one of his Soldiers while mak- share one thing in common; they did of the improvements that were used,” unit was recalled to JBB and were to go home and see them, I’ve had a ing his rounds at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. Williams’ unit has been what was asked of them. says Capt. Beau Taylor, the 557th com- quickly scattered across the base do- great time here and wish I could stay,” tasked with several different mis- At JBB, the 557th’s shipping con- pany commander. ing many different jobs. These jobs Williams says. sions throughout Iraq, and has tainers remained untouched because While part of the unit helped im- included everything from uploading been deployed for 13 months. their mission didn’t require using prove the ECPs, the company’s team and downloading M1 Abrams tanks

LEFT: From left, Spc. Juan Cuevas of Burbank Calif., Cpl. Brian Butti of Oxnard Calif., and Shane McAulay of Norton, Mass., use a M88 armored recovery vehicle and slave cables to jumpstart a M1 Abrams tank at the convoy receiving supply point (CRSP) at Joint Base Balad, Iraq Oct. 30. Many Soldiers from the 557th Mainte- nance Company, from Fort Irwin, Calif., are tasked with loading and unloading tracked vehicles at the CRSP.

BELOW: Spc. Dustin Picard of riverside Calif., and Cpl. Christo- pher Clement of Shareport, La., soldiers from the 557thMainte- nance Company from Fort Irwin, Calif., examine a M2 .50-caliber machinegun at the small arms support center at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. The SASC exists so that enlisted personnel from all branch- es can have their weapons repaired or replaced in theater. PAGE 10 Expeditionary Times November 12, 2008 Soldiers enable the warfighter — to relax by Army Sgt. Keith Anderson recombine and broadcast the the baseball World 16th SB Public Affairs new signal to the individual Series and, of course, customer’s television — they football season. Sol- CONTINGENCY OPERAT- have done a great job.” diers will complain ING BASE Q-WEST, Iraq Couch, a signal systems about lost AFN ser- — There are many support specialist on his sec- vice before they will ways to “en- ond deployment, says he was about water ration- able the War caught off-guard with the job. ing.” fighter” to do “I didn’t ask for the job,” For Sgt. 1st Class his job, but says Couch. “It was given to Lamar Chancellor, few ways me. I was tasked to complete brigade property to enable the project started by the last book non-commis- him or her unit (the 332nd Rear Area sioned officer, being to relax; and for two Soldiers Operations Center, Wisconsin able to see his favor- here, “down-time” is a full- Army National Guard) to get ite teams, including time mission. everyone AFN.” the Alabama Crimson Pfc. Billy Anderson and The 26-year-old from In- Tide, Dallas Cowboys Spc. Randal Couch, both dianapolis, Ind., says he en- and Phoenix Suns, is Headquarters and Headquar- joyed the work. very important. ters Co., 76th Brigade Special “It’s nice,” he says. “I get to “I’m telling you, it’s Troops Battalion, Indiana get out of the office.” definitely a big plus,” Army National Guard, run In 2006, Soldiers at Q- says the 35-year-old cables, trouble shoot, install West starting getting three from Birmingham, networks, antennas, power channels of AFN, with limited Ala. “Because there inverters and splitters to en- availability. The 76th BSTB was a time they didn’t sure that everyone on base took over the project in May have it here.” can watch American Forces 2008, Baty says. Anderson, a 23- Network television program- “In our time here we have year-old construction ming. installed over 14 miles of ca- equipment repair “Couch and Anderson go ble; provided service in over specialist from New out of their way to ensure that 800 CHUs; and installed net- Castle, Ind., says he everyone has the opportu- works in seven “pads” and didn’t expect to be nity to have AFN, with most 40 buildings,” says Baty, a a cable installer in installs completed within 48 31-year-old native of Middle- Iraq. hours,” says Sgt. 1st Class town, Ind. “We have upgraded “I was just going Jeramie Baty, signal opera- the equipment that runs the to show up and do tions non-commissioned offi- commander’s channel, added whatever they told U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Keith M. Anderson Spc. Randal Couch, signal systems support specialist, and Pfc. Billy An- cer in charge, 76th BSTB. the Q-West movie channel me to do,” Anderson derson, construction equipment repair specialist, both Headquarters and “These two Soldiers ser- and one FM radio station. We says. “I didn’t know Headquarters Company, 76th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 76th In- vice a COB with over six thou- have installed over $40,000- I’d be running cable, fantry Brigade Combat Team, Indiana Army National Guard, run coaxial sand people, and they do it worth of equipment through- though. I don’t mind cable through a drainage conduit on the roof of the 16th Sustainment ten hours a day, seven days a out the COB.” it; I’m learning a dif- Brigade headquarters building here Oct. 30. week,” Baty says. “Consider- Baty says that television is ferent trade. I guess I ing neither one of them has important to Soldiers’ well- can’t complain.” TV; I don’t watch TV. I try to deployment and go to school had any formal training in being. Anderson says television is keep busy. I hate being in the to study sports medicine. the cable television indus- “AFN is a vital piece in important to Soldiers, though CHU (containerized housing “I’m ready to get back, get try — that includes operating maintaining a Soldiers mo- he doesn’t like watching it. unit).” back to Indiana,” he says. “I the equipment needed to de- rale and sanity,” Baty says. “If we don’t give it to them Anderson says he was won’t have to walk through code the satellite signal into “It is the link that you have to we’re not liked much,” An- proud of the work he’s done, sand and gravel to get any- its various stations and then home, especially now during derson says. “I don’t have a but he’s ready to wrap-up this where.” Senegalese Soldier becomes citizen during deployment by Army Sgt. Keith Anderson a full-fledged citizen when he baby, Mina, behind when he sues growing up and he put citizenship. 16th SB Public Affairs was naturalized — along with deployed, but said the sacri- me back on track.” “It’s one of those experi- other Soldiers — during a cer- fice was worthwhile, and he Sidibe said that despite ences you can’t get anywhere CONTINGENCY OPERAT- emony at Victory Base Com- was following in his father’s having to leave a newborn else,” Sidibe said. “And it’s ING BASE Q-WEST, Iraq pound on Nov. 4. the best thing they could do to — He came to Sidibe, who is from Dakar, get their stuff going. There are the U.S. in Senegal, said becoming a citi- “I will be proud to be an many advantages.” 2001 to go to zen had been on his mind for a Before he came to America, school, but long time. He said he is proud American and it’s a privilege Sidibe earned the equivalent now he is a to be an American citizen and of a bachelor’s degree in civil Soldier in that it is a privelege to serve in to serve in the Army.” engineering in Dakar. He is the U.S. the Army. now studying business ad- Army de- The naturalization ceremo- ministration and bio-technol- ployed to Iraq, and recently ny was an end to a six-year Spc. Sidy Sidibe ogy in Illinois, and has taken accomplished a long-time process for the married, fa- 30th CSSB courses online during his de- goal: become a U.S. citizen. ther of one. He was married in ployment. Spc. Sidy Sidibe, a me- 2002, but was told he had to Sidibe said he plans to re- chanic with Alpha Co, 2nd wait three years after getting footsteps. behind, his deployment was turn to Indiana and finish his Battalion, 150th Field Artil- married to file for citizenship. “My dad was in the French worthwhile, and actually sped- courses after the deployment. lery, 30th Combat Sustain- He filed in 2005. army so I thought I’d follow up the naturalization process, He would like to someday ment Support Battalion, 16th Sidibe left his wife, Mar- his path,” Sidibe said. “He’s and he recommended it for move to New York City. Sustainment Brigade, became quita, and one-month-old my reference. I had some is- other immigrants considering November 12, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 11 215th MPAD ends tour in Iraq story and photo by is excited about taking over the mis- Spc. Brian Barbour sion from the 215th. Expeditionary Times Staff “We’ll have to meet or exceed their standard,” Emmons said. “They have Joint Base Balad, Iraq – The set a high standard with their print 215th Mobile Public Af- and broadcast products.” fairs Detachment, com- During its deployment to Iraq, Hor- manded by Maj. Timo- ton said the 215th increased the num- thy Horton, handed ber of products that were being picked over responsibility up by mainstream international me- of the public affairs dia. The 215th also doubled the video mission, under the product output, and extended coverage d Maj. Christopher Emmons, commander of the 123rd Mobile Public Affairs De- 3 Sustainment to include all units subordinate to the tachment officially takes responsibility of the public affairs mission, under the Command (Expeditionary), to the ESC, regardless of their location. 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), from Maj. Timothy Horton, com- 123rd Mobile Public Affairs Detach- When asked how his mission en- mander of the 215th MPAD during a transfer of authority ceremony at Joint ment commanded by Maj. Christopher abled the Warefighter, Horton replied Base Balad, Iraq Nov. 3. Emmons here Nov. 3. that the 215th “put a spotlight on op- The 215th MPAD, an Army Reserve erations without bias or malice, and States; most didn’t know each other quickly. unit from New Orleans, La., supported relieved commanders of the constant until reporting for duty in New Or- “We were able to find the strengths the 3d ESC by running the ESC’s public battle with the press.” leans. and weaknesses of the unit Soldiers affairs office here. The 215th is a conglomerate of re- Spc. Ryan Hohman of Hutto, Texas, and learned to work with them,” he Maj. Christopher Emmons said he serve soldiers from all over the United says the unit was able to pull together said. 546th ASMC ends tour, transfers authority story and photo by “I could not be more proud of the eration,” Hawes said. “We will con- Hood, Texas. Army Sgt. Crystal Reidy results,” Sprowl said. tinue to administer the same level of “A great officer once told me that Expeditionary Times Staff The Sgt. Ivory Phipps Medical Clinic care that has been established by the in the Army there is no ENDEX (end has been the busiest health care facility 546th.” of exercise), only changes in mission, JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq - Sol- of its kind in all of Iraq since the unit Sprowl said the 546th’s new mission Sprowl said, “We must put the same diers from the 546th took over in September of 2007, said will be transitioning back into their focus on this new mission as the one Area Support Medical 1st Lt. Nolan G. Ellis, the Treatment personal lives when they reach Fort from which we are relived.” Company celebrated Platoon Leader from St. Robert, Miss. the end of a 15-month The clinic provided daily sick call deployment and and immunization care for Joint Base transferred authori- Balad military residents and Depart- ty to the 215th Area ment of Defense civilians 24 hours a Support Medical day, seven days a week. Company, an Indiana National Guard “I am extremely proud of my med- unit, during a ceremony here Oct. 31. ics and their dedication to providing “All good things must come to an consistent, outstanding health care for end, and I am not going to lie, we are such a long period,” Ellis said. thrilled to be heading out,” said Capt. One project the 546th worked on, Gregory M. Sprowl, the 546th ASMC but did not complete, was the redesign company commander from George- of the treatment area, an additional town, Texas. “But we leave knowing we room for privacy and increased effi- left a better footprint than we received, ciency. The renovations are scheduled and we did things the right way.” to be completed by the 215th. The Soldiers, noncommissioned of- “Personally, it will be bitter sweet for ficer and officers of the 546th have me to not see the renovations complete done great things for the Soldiers of since I have been driving this project this community, Sprowl said. for over 10 months,” Ellis said. “I am While deployed the unit had approx- very glad this facility will get improve- imately 25,000 outpatient encounters, ments that it needs.” 40,000 pharmacy orders, 6,500 X-rays Staff Sgt. Maurice Hampton, an am- and 15,000 vaccinations. bulance team NCO from Killeen, Texas “These are all hard numbers and a said he is impressed with the 215th. He testament to the activities in the Sgt. said the unit came in prepared for their Ivory Phipps Medical Clinic and our mission. Emergency Response Center,” Sprowl “The soldiers know what to do. They said. know the wound and how to categorize Sprowl said he also measured the it,” Hampton said. “We are confident quality of their tour by the quick re- they can take over and do a great job.” sponse of the unit ambulance teams Maj. Craig T. Hawes, the 215th com- Members of the 546th Area Support Medical Company and the 215th Area Support which arrived before other first re- pany commander from Columbus, Medical Company participate in a transfer of authority ceremony held at Balad on sponders to the scene 75% of the time, Ind., said he was thankful to the 546th Oct. 31. “We are falling into a first class operation,” said Maj. Craig T. Hawes, the with no motor vehicle accidents. for the professional work environment 215th company commander from Columbus, Ind. “We will continue to administer the Sprowl said all the medics were in- they established. same level of care that has been established by the 546th.” strumental in the success of this tour. “We are falling into a first class op- PAGE 12 Expeditionary Times November 12, 2008 Under new management Shout Out

SSG Gregory Radermacher:

Krumel and your family and friends miss you! See my new seat? I’m a big boy now. Love Kay, and the Rosenaus and Kru- mel SSG. Gregory Radermacher is with HSC 834th ASB Task Force 34.

U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jason Epley Col. John Dolan, the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing vice commander, speaks to Airmen and Sol- diers during a Base Operating Support-Integrator transfer of authority ceremony at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Nov. 5. Col. Sal Nodjomian, the 332nd Expeditionary Mission Support Group com- mander, assumed responsibility of mission support functions such as law enforcement, civil engineering and vehicle operations Nov. 6 from Army Col. Courtney Carr, the commander of the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

ERB, from Page 7 demands a rapid assault and a precise application of lethal force. The opera- the training. “I want to tell the ones tors need great proficiency with their quitting not to, to tough it out.” weapons, but also the ability to make Once the trainees are done with split-second decisions. Hell Week, they will endure another “If they don’t understand the con- four weeks of physical conditioning cept of (close-quarters battle), I’m not and learn weapons safety and marks- going to let them continue,” the ser- manship. geant first class says. “Just because they make it through The initial training program pre- the first week, doesn’t mean they are pares them to join their home units, going to make it,” says a Coalition where they will see continuous ad- forces sergeant first class and ERB ad- vanced training through foreign in- visor. ternal defense partnerships. They will The second and third week of the receive training in advanced marks- training will concentrate on small- manship techniques, close-quarters arms proficiency with pistols and as- battle, urban movement, reactive sault rifles. The final two weeks will sniper fire and continuous physical introduce them to close-quarters bat- fitness. tle techniques. Close-quarters battle, According to officials at Combined also known as close-quarters combat, Joint Special Operations Task Force Covered in mud, an Iraqi recruit waits for further instruction while going through is when small security units engage an – Arabian Peninsula, nearly all the the basic-training style indoctrination of “Hell Week.” enemy with personal weapons at very ERB and SWAT units in the country short range, potentially to the point of are conducting completely unilateral dad as well as four regionally-based t the end of Hell Week, 144 men hand-to-hand combat. operations. They are developing their Special Weapons and Tactics units in Aare left standing, ready to contin- Enemies, hostages, civilians and own intelligence on enemy forces, ob- Mosul, Tikrit, Hillah and Kut. This ue through the next four weeks. fellow operators may be in very close taining warrants from Iraqi judges and training is the largest selection course The successful completion of this proximity, increasing the chances of independently conducting operations to date for the ERB and Special Weap- challenging course will deliver more fratricide or other unintended injury to arrest criminals and terrorists. ons and Tactics units from around the capability and capacity for Iraqis to or death. This technique of fighting The ERB has a battalion in Bagh- country. increase national security.

Do you have a story idea? Contact the Expeditionary Times [email protected] November 12, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 13

Tue., Thu.,- 2 p.m. Saturday- 8 p.m. CENTER 6 on 6 volleyball JB BALAD ACTIVITIES Boot Camp: Green Bean Karaoke: tourney: Sunday- 8:45 a.m H6 RECREATION Sun., Wed., 7:30pm Friday- 7 p.m. INDOOR POOL Mon., Wed., Fri.- Thursday- 7:30 p.m. Tue.,Thu.,- 7 p.m. CENTER 9-ball tourney: Aerobics: Swim Lessons: 8-9 p.m. Poetry Night: Power Abs: Bingo: Monday- 8 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Mon., Wed.,- 6 p.m. Abs-Aerobics: Thursday-8 p.m. Mon., Tue., Thu., - 8 p.m. Sunday- 8 p.m. Ping-pong tourney: Friday- 7 p.m. Tue., Thu., Sat.,- Tue., Thu., 6-7 a.m., 6-ball tourney: Friday- 9 p.m. Texas Hold’em: Tuesday- 8 p.m. Body by Midgett Toning 6:30 p.m. 5-6 p.m Thursday- 8 p.m. CC Cross Fit: Mon., Fri.,- 2 p.m., Foosball tourney: Class: AquaTraining: Edge Weapons & Stick Caribbean Night: Monday-Saturday- 8:30 p.m. Tuesday- 8 p.m. Tue., Thu., - 7 p.m. Tue.,Thu.,- 7:30 p.m., Fighting Combative Friday- 8 p.m. 10:30 p.m 8-ball tourney: Jam Session: Dodge ball Game: 8:30 p.m. Training: Chess & Dominoes Cross Fit: Tuesday- 2 a.m., Tuesday- 7:30 p.m Tuesday- 7:30 p.m. Tue., Thur., Sat.,- Tourney: Mon., Wed., Fri.,- 5:45 8:30 p.m. 8-ball tourney: Furman’s Martial Arts: EAST FITNESS 8-10 p.m. Friday- 8 p.m. a.m., 7 a.m., 3 p.m., Ping-pong tourney: Wednesday- 8 p.m Mon., Wed., Sun.,- 1 p.m. CENTER Salsa Class: 6 p.m. Tuesday- 8:30 p.m. Guitar Lessons: Gaston’s Self-Defense Open Court Volleyball: EAST RECREATION Saturday- 8:30 p.m. Tue., Thu.,- 7 a.m., Spades: Thursday- 7:30 p.m Class: Sunday- 6 p.m. CENTER Poker: 3 p.m. Wednesday- 2 a.m., Game tourney: Fri., Sat.- 7 p.m. Aerobics: 4-ball tourney: Saturday- 7:30 p.m. Sunday- 5:45 a.m., 8:30 p.m. Thursday- 1 p.m, 8 p.m. Open court basketball: Mon., Wed., Fri.- Sunday- 8 p.m 7 a.m., 3 p.m. Salsa: Enlisted Poker: Thursday- 7 p.m. 5:30-6:30 a.m. 8-ball tourney: H6 FITNESS CENTER P90x: Wednesday- 8:30 p.m. Friday- 1 p.m., 8 p.m. Open court soccer: Yoga Class: Monday- 8 p.m Spin: Monday- Saturday- 4:30 9-ball: Officer Poker: Mon., Wed., - 7 p.m. Mon., Fri.- 6-7 a.m. Karaoke: Sunday- 9 a.m. a.m., 4 p.m., 10 p.m. Thursday- 2 a.m., Saturday- 1 p.m., 8 p.m. Zingano Brazilian Jui Step Aerobics: Monday- 8 p.m. Mon., Wed., Fri.,- 2 a.m., 12 a.m. 8:30 p.m. Squat Competition: Jitsu: Mon., Wed., Fri.- Swing Class: 8 a.m. 2 p.m., 7 p.m., Soccer: Karaoke: Saturday- 8 p.m. Tue., Thu.,- 8:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. Tuesday- 8 p.m. 9 p.m. Tue., Thu.,- 8 p.m. Thursday- 8:30 p.m. Conditioning Training Table Tennis: Tue., Thu., -5:45 a.m., Yoga: Dominos: WEST FITNESS CIRCUIT GYM Class: Tuesday- 8 p.m. 9 a.m., 8:30 p.m. Wednesday- 8 p.m. Saturday- 8:30 p.m. CENTER Floor hockey: Mon., Wed., Fri.- 7:15- 9-ball tourney: Saturday- 9 a.m., 7 p.m. MCAP Level 1: Darts: 3 on 3 basketball Mon., Wed., Fri.,– 8 p.m. Wednesday- 8 p.m. Boxing: Friday- 8 p.m. Saturday- 8:30 p.m. tourney: 8-10 p.m Brazilian Jui-Jitsu: Dungeons & Dragons: Sunday- 4 p.m. 5 on 5 Basketball: WEST RECREATION Saturday- 7:30 p.m.

Sustainer Reel Time Theater Nights In Rhodanthe

My Best Friend’s Girl Adrienne Willis (Diane Lane), a woman with her life Movie Times Smart, beautiful and headstrong, Alexis is the girl of Dustin’s dreams. But after only five weeks of dating, in chaos, retreats to the tiny Wednesday, November 12 the love-struck Dustin is coming coastal town of Rodanthe, in the Outer Banks of North 5 p.m. College on so strong that Alexis is forced to slow things down – permanently. Carolina, to tend to a friend’s 8 p.m. Burn After Reading Devastated and desperate to get inn for the weekend. Here she Thursday, November 13 her back, Dustin turns to his hopes to find the tranquility 5 p.m. Righteous Kill best friend, Tank, the rebound she so desperately needs specialist. A master at seducing – 8 p.m. Disaster Movie to rethink the conflicts and offending – women, Tank gets surrounding her—a wayward Friday, November 14 hired by freshly dumped guys to husband who has asked to come home, and 2 p.m. IGOR take their ex-girlfriends out on a teenaged daughter who resents her every the worst date of their lives – an 5 p.m. Nights In Rodanthe experience so horrible it sends decision. Almost as soon as Adrienne gets to 8:30 p.m. Quantum of Solace them running gratefully back to Rodanthe, a major storm is forecast and Dr. Paul Saturday, November 15 their beaus. But when Tank works Flanner (Richard Gere) arrives. The only guest at the inn, Flanner is not on a weekend escape 2 p.m. Nights In Rodanthe his magic on Alexis, he ends up meeting the challenge of a lifetime. Alexis is the first girl who knows how but rather is there to face his own crisis of 5 p.m. Madagascar: Escape 2 to call his bluff, and Tank soon finds himself torn conscience. Africa between his loyalty to Dustin and a strange new 8 p.m. Ghost Town attraction to his best friend’s girl. Madagascar: Sunday, November 16 Escape 2 Africa 2 p.m. Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa IGOR Hopelessly stranded on the remote shores of Madagascar, the New Yorkers hatch a plan to get 5 p.m. Ghost Town A hilarious twist on the classic back to Central Park that 8 p.m. Nights In Rodanthe monster movie, Igor tells the story instead finds them soaking up Monday, November 17 of one Igor who’s sun in the picturesque plains sick of being a 5 p.m. IGOR of Africa. Madagascar may lowly lab assistant be a nice place to visit, but 8 p.m. Madagascar: Escape 2 w i t h a Y e s for the gang of animals who Africa Master’s degree spent most of their lives in Tuesday, Noveber 18 a n d d r e a m s New York, there is truly no place like home. After 5 p.m. Nights In Rodanthe of becoming a scientist. When discovering the remnants of a 8 p.m. IGOR crashed airplane, the penguins his cruel master quickly set about making the kicks the bucket repairs needed to get the a week before craft airborne again. When (Schedule is subject to change) the annual Evil the plane finally takes to the S c i e n c e F a i r , sky, it begins to look like it’s only a matter of Igor finally gets time before Alex the Lion (voice of Ben Stiller) and his chance. friends are soaring over New York Harbor. PAGE 14 Expeditionary Times November 12, 2008 News around Iraq province and that made the dream of Wasit come true,” said Dr. Mowaaffak al-Rubaie, Iraq National Heroic efforts of Iraqi NPs Security Advisor. Wasit Governor Abd al-Latif Hamad Tarfah stop attack at checkpoint in and Lt. Gen. Lloyd Austin, commanding general of Multi-National Corps – Iraq, signed the Wasit Baghdad Memorandum of Understanding, transferring the security of Wasit province over to the provincial BAGHDAD, Iraq – National Police government and Iraqi Security Forces. stopped a vehicle-borne improvised ex- “Today is a celebrated day in Wasit that we’ve plosive device as an al-Qaeda in Iraq ter- been waiting for, for a long time,” Tarfah said. “It rorist attempted to transport it through a didn’t come easy and was a result of lots of hard NP check point in the West Rashid area of Bagh- work and sacrifice from the Police and the Army.” dad at approximately 5:45 p.m. Nov. 5. The Iraqi Government and Prime Minister Nouri While manning the checkpoint, police- al-Maliki decided Wasit was ready for PIC based men with the 3rd Battalion, 1st National on its local government’s readiness and its ability Police Mechanized Brigade, using estab- to assume the security lead. Coalition forces will lished security measures, stopped a vehicle remain in the area to support the local government loaded with an estimated 200 pounds of ex- and will transition to an over watch posture fur- plosive material and three mortar rounds. ther away from populated cities and centers, as While stopped in the search lane, the vehicle deto- warranted by safer conditions. nated, killing the terrorist. The blast also killed two national policemen and wounded another. a growing “Three heroic Iraqi National Police stopped a economy. Iraqi National Police potentially catastrophic VBIED attack when they “The new Iraq diligently stopped a terrorist from entering Airport is an Iraq where seize weapons cache Road at an NP checkpoint,” said Lt. Col. Steve Sto- disputes are settled by ver, spokesman, Multi-National Division – Bagh- discussion not violence,” in Hayy Jihad dad. Getchell continued. “The new Babil Province is a province secured by the Iraqi BAGHDAD, Iraqi – National Police Iraqi Army brings school Army and Iraqi Police; it is no longer (secured) by seized a weapons cache during securi- the Coalition forces. This is a great day for not only ty operations Nov. 2, in the Hayy Jihad supplies to Mosul youth you and your family but a great day for the Coali- community of the Rashid district located tion. This represents that people are ready to settle in southern Baghdad. MOSUL, Iraq – Soldiers from the 7th Bri- disputes with a dialog of discussion but not violence, At approximately 11:45 a.m., Iraqi National Po- gade, 2nd Division Iraqi Army, visited stu- and I ask you to continue moving Iraq and Babil licemen from the 5th Brigade, 2nd NP Division, dis- dents at the Al Sahabh School in Mosul to province forward by your commitment to the cur- covered a weapons cache, seizing 14 AK-47 assault hand out supplies and book bags Nov. 5. rent security situation and making it better.” rifles, one SKS automatic rifle, one bolt-action rifle, “We need to protect the future of Iraq,” said Col. The former detainees, who are no longer viewed five rocket-propelled grenades, six sticks of propel- Salah Adeziz, executive officer, 7th Bde., 2nd Div., as a threat by those providing security and stability lant, 50 7.62 mm rounds and four magazines. IA. “This is a very important thing that I wanted to in Iraq, were reminded that their freedom was due “The Iraqi Security Forces continue to hone their do now with the Coalition Forces. For our students, to the combined efforts of the Iraqi Security Forces, skills as they keep the communities and neighbor- we hold nothing back to support them with supplies, the Government of Iraq and Coalition forces. hoods of the Rashid district safe and secure from food, anything that we can do. They see the IA and “Not everything is perfect but it is much better the violent acts of criminals and terrorists,” said the Coalition Forces working together, it will make than it was a year ago, and I look forward to your co- Maj. Dave Olson, 1st Brigade Combat Team spokes- a good future for the children to see that.” operation in helping Babil Province continue mov- person, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Divi- This visit was the fourth trip the soldiers made to ing forward,” said Getchell. sion – Baghdad. “The 1st ‘Raider’ Brigade is com- the school as the Iraqi Security Forces continue to Prior to reintegrating them back into their com- mitted to teaching, coaching and mentoring the visit with area residents and local schools to build munities, the detainees had to meet preset require- Iraqi Security Forces in Rashid as they transition to stronger relationships in the communities where ments: First, the person released must renounce vi- the lead to protect and to serve the people of Bagh- they work. During this trip, they handed out sup- olence, and second, the person released must have a dad.” plies and bags to 400 students at the boys and girls sponsor, such as a prominent person in his commu- primary school. nity or a religious or tribal leader, willing to accept responsibility for the good conduct of the individual Iraqi NPs see large turnout Detainees released as part of being set free. The detainees were released at numerous loca- during recruiting drive reintegration efforts tions from various units throughout the Vanguard AO. Some of the units releasing detainees include: BADUSH, Iraq – The Iraqi National Po- FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, five from 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment; four lice were collecting applications of po- Iraq – Thirty-four Iraqi detainees were re- from 30th Military Transition Team; three from 1st tential new police officers for a new unit leased from different regions of northern Battalion, 76th Field Artillery; and one from 33rd during a recruiting drive at the Iraqi Po- Babil Oct. 31, making 430 the total number MiTT. lice Station in Badush, a village on the outskirts of of detainees released by 4th Brigade Combat Team, Mosul, Nov. 4. 3rd Infantry Division. National Police from the 3rd Brigade in Mosul “Much has changed in Babil Province in the year Wasit now under Provincial are creating a new battalion, said Maj. Gen. Mo- since many of you have been detained,” said Lt. hammed Sabree Latif, commander, 3rd NP Divi- Col. Michael Getchell, commander of 2nd Battal- Iraqi Control sion. They currently have two battalions in Mo- ion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, to nine detainees re- sul. leased at FOB Kalsu by his unit. “I ask you to stand FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELTA, “We are looking for fifteen hundred people on the bridge and walk to the future, embrace the Iraq – Wasit province became the 13th of from the surrounding areas of Mosul during this change and not look back at the past.” 18 Iraqi provinces to be handed over to recruitment for the next few days,” said Moham- Getchell told the detainees that the symbolism of Provincial Iraqi Control in a ceremony in med. the bridge represented Iraq … one side was the old al-Kut Oct. 29. One of the goals of the recruiting drive is to get Iraq filled with violence; the other side is the “We came to the position that we are fully pre- a variety of recruits from the surrounding areas, new Iraq representing a growing security force and pared to take responsibility of the security in the which will give the new battalion diversity. November 12, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 15

STUPID STATE LAWS Sudoku The objective is to fill Level: Very Easy Ever wonder just how dumb things can be? Does your state have dumb laws? Read on and the 9×9 grid so that find out. In the upcoming weeks, the Expeditionary Times will have a series of dumb and stupid 9 8 2 4 3 laws for each state. each column, each row, Many of the laws have been verified, but many have been taken from sources which do not and each of the nine include law citations. The laws cited below have been taken from news groups, web sites and city 7 9 1 5 governments. Remember, something had to have happened to get these laws passed. Some laws 3×3 boxes contains the have been repealed, but not all; some are still on the books. digits from 1 to 9 only 6 5 1 9 4 one time each. Illinois 5 2 1 7 9 • You may be arrested for vagrancy if you do not have at least one dollar Last weeks answers 3 1 6 7 bill on your person. 3 7 6 5 8 1 2 9 4 • You must contact the police before entering the city in an automobile. 2 8 9 4 7 6 3 5 1 Nebraska 5 4 1 3 2 9 7 6 8 4 2 6 8 1 • Persons with gonorrhea may not marry. 7 6 3 1 4 8 5 2 9 • If a child burps during church, his parent may be arrested. 1 9 2 6 5 7 8 4 3 5 2 1 3 6 • It is illegal for bar owners to sell beer unless they are simultaneously 4 5 8 9 3 2 6 1 7 1 9 5 4 brewing a kettle of soup. 8 3 5 2 1 4 9 7 6 6 2 4 7 9 3 1 8 5 9 1 7 8 6 5 4 3 2 2 6 7 59 PVT. MURPHY’S LAW Upcoming sports on AFN Wednesday 11/12/08 College Football: Teams TBD, Live 8 p.m. AFN/xtra NHL on Versus: Pittsburgh Penguins @ Detroit Red College Football: Teams TBD, Live 11:30 AFN/prime Wings Live 3 a.m. AFN/xtra atlantic ESPN2 College Football Primetime: Ball State @ Miami College Football: Teams TBD, Live 11:30 AFN/sports (Ohio) Live 3 a.m. AFN/sports College Football: Teams TBD, Live 11:30 AFN/xtra Nashville Predators @ San Jose Sharks Live 6:30 a.m. AFN/xtra Sunday 11/16/08 Milwaukee Bucks @ Cleveland Cavaliers Tape Delayed College Football: Teams TBD, Live 4 a.m. AFN/prime 11:30 a.m. AFN/sports atlantic NFL RePLAY - Game 1: Teams TBD * 90-Minute College Football: Teams TBD, Live 4 a.m. AFN/sports Fast-Paced Game of the Week , Tape Delayed 3 p.m. UFC 91 Countdown, Tape Delayed 5 a.m. AFN/xtra AFN/sports UFC 91: Couture vs Lesnar (MGM Grand Arena, Las NFL RePLAY - Game 2: Teams TBD * 90-Minute Vegas, NV), Live 6 a.m. AFN/xtra Fast-Paced Game of the Week , Tape Delayed 4:30 p.m. College Football: Teams TBD, Tape Delayed 11 a.m. AFN/sports AFN/sports NASCAR Nationwide Series: Ford 300 (Homestead- Thursday 11/13/08 Miami Speedway, Homestead, FL), Tape Delayed 11 New York Rangers @ New Jersey Devils, Live 3 a.m. a.m. AFN/xtra AFN/xtra HBO World Championship Boxing: Jermain Taylor NBA Wednesday: Utah Jazz @ Washington Wizards, vs Jeff Lacy (Memorial Gym, Vanderbilt University, Live 4 a.m. AFN/sports Nashville, TN), Tape Delayed 3 p.m. AFN/sports Colorado Avalanche @ Vancouver Canucks, Live 6 a.m. NFL Week 11: Teams TBD, Live 9 p.m. AFN/prime AFN/xtra atlantic NBA Wednesday: Houston Rockets @ Phoenix Suns, NFL Week 11: Teams TBD, Live 9 p.m. AFN/sports Live 6:30 a.m. AFN/sports NFL Week 11: Teams TBD, Live 9 p.m. AFN/xtra NBA Wednesday: Houston Rockets @ Phoenix Suns * 2-Hr ESPN Cutdown Version, Tape Delayed 11 a.m.. Monday 11/17/08 AFN/sports NFL Week 11: Teams TBD, Live 12 a.m. AFN/prime NFL RePLAY - Game 3: Teams TBD * 90-Minute atlantic Fast-Paced Game of the Week, Tape Delayed 3 p.m. NFL Week 11: Teams TBD, Live 12 a.m. AFN/sports AFN/sports NASCAR Sprint Cup Series: Ford 400 (Homestead- NFL RePLAY - Game 4: Teams TBD * 90-Minute Miami Speedway, Homestead, FL) (JIP), Live 12 a.m. Fast-Paced Game of the Week Tape Delayed 4:30 p.m. AFN/xtra AFN/sports NHRA POWERade Drag Racing: Automobile Club of ESPN2 College Football Primetime: Central Michigan Southern California NHRA (JIP), Live 4 a.m. AFN/xtra @ Northern Illinois, Tape Delayed 9 p.m. AFN/sports NBC Sunday Night Football - Week 11:Dallas Cowboys @ Washington Redskins, Live 4:15 a.m. AFN/sports Iraq according to Opet Friday 11/14/08 O’Reilly Auto Parts CBE Classic: UMKC @ Kansas, ESPN College Football Primetime: Virgina Tech @ Live 4:30 a.m. AFN/prime atlantic Miami Live 3:30 a.m. AFN/xtra FIM World Superbike: Donington Park - Race 2, Tape NFL Week 11: New York Jets @ New England Patriots, Delayed 6 a.m. AFN/xtra Live 4 a.m. AFN/sports NFL Week 11: Teams TBD, Tape Delayed 7 a.m. AFN/ Detroit Pistons @ Golden State Warriors, Live 6:30 a.m. xtra AFN/xtra UFC 91: Couture vs Lesnar (MGM Grand Arena, Las MLS Primetime Thursday: MLS Playoffs Teams TBD., Vegas, NV), Tape Delayed 10 a.m. AFN/xtra Tape Delayed 11 a.m. AFN/sports NBC Sunday Night Football - Week 11: Dallas Cowboys NBA on TNT: Denver Nuggets @ Cleveland Cavaliers, @ Washington Redskins, Tape Delayed 2 p.m. AFN/ Tape Delayed 2:30 p.m. AFN/sports sports NBA on TNT: Dallas Mavericks @ Chicago Bulls, Tape ATP Tennis Masters Series - Tennis Masters Cup: Delayed 5 p.m. AFN/sports Men’s Final (Shanghai, China), Tape Delayed 5 p.m. NFL Week 11: New York Jets @ New England Patriots, AFN/sports Tape Delayed 9 p.m. AFN/sports UFC 91: Couture vs Lesnar (MGM Grand Arena, Las Vegas, NV), Tape Delayed 6 p.m. AFN/xtra Saturday 11/15/08 NBC Sunday Night Football - Week 11: Dallas Cowboys New Jersey Devils @ Washington Capitals , Live 3 a.m. @ Washington Redskins, Tape Delayed 9 p.m. AFN/ AFN/xtra sports NBA Friday: Denver Nuggets @ Boston Celtics , Live 4 a.m. AFN/sports Tuesday 11/18/08 ESPN2 College Football Primetime: Cincinnati @ NHL on Versus: Boston Bruins @ Toronto Maple Leafs, Louisville, Live 4 a.m. AFN/prime pacific Live 3:30 a.m. AFN/xtra Nashville Predators @ Anaheim Ducks, Live 6 a.m. ESPN Monday Night Football - Week 11: Cleveland AFN/xtra Browns @ Buffalo Bills, Live 4:30 AFN/sports NBA Friday: Detroit Pistons @ Los Angeles Lakers, NBA on NBATV: San Antonio Spurs @ Los Angeles Live 6:30 a.m. AFN/sports Clippers, Live 6:30 a.m. AFN/xtra NBA Friday: Detroit Pistons @ Los Angeles Lakers ESPN Monday Night Football - Week 11: Cleveland *2-Hr ESPN Cutdown Version, Tape Delayed 11 a.m. Browns @ Buffalo Bills , Tape Delyed 2 p.m.. AFN/ AFN/sports sports ESPN2 College Football Primetime: Cincinnati @ College Hoops Tip-Off: Massachusetts @ Memphis, Louisville, Tape Delayed 3 p.m. AFN/sports Tape Delayed 6 p.m. AFN/Sports College Football: Teams TBD, Live 8 p.m. AFN/prime ESPN Monday Night Football - Week 11: Cleveland atlantic Browns @ Buffalo Bills , Tape Delayed 9 p.m. AFN/ College Football: Teams TBD, Live 8 p.m. AFN/ports sports PAGE 16 Expeditionary Times November 12, 2008

Photos around Iraq

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Joshua E. Powell ABOVE: Maj. John Gossart, from Washington, D.C., and U.S. Sol- diers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, stop by a check point in the city of Baghdad on Oct. 30. They like to check up on the Iraqi army manning the post to see if they need supplies or equipment.

U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Aaron Thacker ABOVE: Sgt. Ian Walker watches his platoon set up perimeter security after dismounting a Merlin transport helicopter outside a Marsh Arab village near Basrah on Oct. 30. The platoon’s mission was to look for ordinance and estab- lish contacts in the village.

U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Aaron Thacker ABOVE: Local Marsh Arab children greet British soldiers on patrol in southern Iraq on Oct. 27. Many Marsh Arabs living in southern Iraq were displaced after Saddam Hussein drained the marshes.

U.S. Navy photo by MC2 James Wagner ABOVE: U.S. Army Sgt. Derrick Somers of Rigby, Idaho, from the 230th Military Police Com- pany, 793rd Military Police Battalion, 18th Military Police Brigade Combat Team and Petty Officer 2nd Class Wendy Wyman of Madison, Wis. and Navy Expeditionary Combat Com- mand Detachment Combat Camera, stop and talk to some Iraqi children outside of a market in Jabella, Iraq, on Oct. 31.