Coverage Inside www.mnci.centcom.mil/Chronicle Phantom Strike THE COALITION HRONICL CVolume 2, Issue 9 SeptemberE 2007

Coalition Indirect fires in Diyala

• Cooperation U.S., Estonian troops team with ISF to clear Sab Al Bor Citizens stand up to insurgents THE COALITION CHRONICLE What’s The Official Magazine of Multi-National Corps-

Inside September 2007 Volume 2, Issue 9

MNC-I Commander Lt. Gen. Ray Odierno Coalition MNC-I Public Affairs Officer Lt. Col. James Hutton

Cooperation MNC-I Command Information Chief Americans, Estonians, Sgt. 1st Class VeShannah Lovelace Editor Iraqis team up to clear Staff Sgt. Jacob Boyer Sab Al Bor Staff Writers Sgt. D. A. Dickinson Sgt. Abel Trevino Cpl. Darhonda Rodela Page 5 Spc. Laura M. Bigenho Spc. Beatrice Florescu Spc. Stephanie Homan

Coverage Inside Kicking Roll Grasping Phantom Strike

onicle

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Things Off Out! Ramadan THE COALITION SeptemberE 2007 Indirect fires spark Tanks punish enemy Muslim holy month Lightning Hammer in Anbar explained HRONICL CVolume 2, Issue 9 Page 18 Page 19 Page 21 Coalition

Indirect fires in Diyala in fires Indirect Cooperation • U.S., Estonian troops team with The Road A Better Citizens ISF to clear Back Tomorrow Stand Up Sab Al Bor Soldiers aid Baghdad School educates Aiding the Coalition district’s recovery juvenile detainees in Jurf as Sakhr

Page 22 Page 24 Page 26 Citizens stand up to insurgents insurgents to up stand Citizens Departments This month’s covers Up front: Estonian Soldiers from Estonian Platoon 15 search for hidden weapons Commander’s Voice Coalition News Briefs with Staff Sgt. Erich Heinig, section Page 1 Page 4 sergeant, for 1/7 Cav., 1st Bde., 1st Cav. Div., during a joint operation in Sab Al Bor. Photo by Army Staff Sgt. Jon Cupp CSM’s Corner Freedom’s Focal Point On the back: Iraqi civilians travel to Page 2 Page 8 Imam Moussa al-Kadhim’s shrine in Khadamiyah Aug. 9. Photo by Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Summer M. Anderson. In Remembrance Page 28 Questions, comments and concerns about The Coalition Chronicle can be addressed via email at [email protected]. The Chronicle The Coalition Chronicle is an authorized monthly publication for members of the Department of Defense. accepts articles, photos and letters for submission. Contents of this monthly publication are not necessarily the official views of or endorsed by the U.S. Send submissions to veshannah.lovelace@iraq. Government or the Department of Defense. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility centcom.mil. The Chronicle reserves the right to edit of the Public Affairs Office of the Multi-National Corps-Iraq. for security, accuracy, propriety, clarity and space. COMMANDER’S VOICE ood and bad, remarkable could be built. and mundane, through The Soldiers of 2nd Brigade, 1st two tours as a com- Infantry Division have experienced Gmander and dozens of their own shift in local senti- visits in other capacities, I’ve seen ments. The citizens of Baghdad’s a great deal here in Iraq. Though Ghazaliya district began to become my experiences are numerous, I familiar with Coalition and Iraqi continue to be amazed at things I Security Forces as joint security see every day: troops soldiering stations were constructed, safe through an arduous patrol on a neighborhood barriers began to blistering day, doctors and nurses go up, and the frequency of dis- working through relentless fatigue mounted patrols began to increase. to save the life of another Soldier, As they saw this effort to ensure and the adaptability of so many their safety, their trust and confi- troops carrying out missions or dence in Coalition Soldiers began tasks that aren’t in a manual or to rise as well. Though Ghazaliya part of their normal skill set. But Lt. Gen. Ray Odierno still lacks any substantial police MNC-I Commander most recently, I was amazed by support, the “Ghazaliya Guard- the uncommon bond that has been turned against extremists. The tide ians” have stepped into the breech, formed between former insurgents started to turn in this small town jointly manning checkpoints with the and Coalition troops. when a patrol from 2nd Brigade, 10th to keep al-Qaida and other Many of these former insurgents Mountain Division discovered and extremists out of their community. felt alienated and disillusioned after cleared a VBIED that was set to deto- The vast majority of volunteers they were cast aside and lumped with nate in the center of the town. Soon like the “Ghazaliya Guardians” are former regime elements as we purged after, the nephew of Harith al-Dari, a looking to become a part of the Iraqi former Ba’athists from almost every local leader, was assassinated and the Security Forces. ISF leaders are still level of Iraq’s govern- citizens of Yusufiya wary of these new volunteers, mainly mental framework. decided they had because they have received little to However, these same We are now seen enough. They no guidance regarding these new citizens have recently felt compelled to volunteers and are unsure what to come to realize the pursuing our stop the indiscrimi- expect. Despite their reservations, this real evil in this coun- enemies into nant murder of their is truly an amazing development that try is not the Coalition friends and family has taken place, largely because of presence, but extrem- ever-shrinking members by al-Qaida the vigilance and diplomacy of young ist exploitation. As and they wanted our leaders like Phillips. Junior leaders the surge continues, pockets. help. and Soldiers on the ground are driv- the citizens of Iraq are One of the com- ing our success. They are meeting citi- sensing an ever in- pany commanders zens in their areas, gaining their trust creasing level of security. As they feel in the area, Capt. Palmer Phillips, and confidence, and helping change more comfortable in their homes and and the Soldiers of CompanyB, 2nd the course of Iraqi history. see the faces of Iraqi Security Forces Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, e want to continue to and Coalition troops in their neigh- introduced me to many of these com- capitalize on the mo- borhood every day, they also begin to munity leaders. Some were former mentum we’ve created trust those faces, which is now leading members of the Iraqi Army, others Wwith efforts like those to their cooperation. They are provid- were tribal leaders. All were united I’ve described. Building on our recent ing valuable intelligence to Iraqi and in their fight against al-Qaida. They offensive operations, we launched Op- Coalition forces, and they are joining spoke of the community’s seven tribes eration Phantom Strike. This opera- the fight against al-Qaida in Iraq by coming together to drive extremists tion consists of a series of targeted op- volunteering to be a part of the Iraqi from their homes and described how erations designed to intensify pursuit Security Forces in droves. scores of volunteers wished to join of extremists across Iraq. Extremist I saw a striking example of this sea the fight by joining the Iraqi Security support zones and safe havens were change recently in Yusufiya. Once Forces. One of the local Sheiks told us largely eliminated through Operation an al-Qaida stronghold just south of how he was so committed to securing Phantom Thunder, and we are now Baghdad, it has become another in a his community that he donated his pursuing our enemies into ever- long line of communities that have own land so a new Iraqi Police station shrinking pockets. Through quick The Coalition Chronicle 1 strike raids, the precision targeting of extremist leader- to reduce the capability of our enemies, as we have thus far ship, and a focus on the extremist’s most lethal accelerants during Phantom Strike, I believe we can continue to buy of violence — the IED and VBIED — we will continue to the Iraqis the time and space they so desperately need. diminish extremist influence throughout Iraq. By neutral- You are all doing exceptional work. If you would have izing the groups that foment the indiscriminant violence told most people just a year ago that al-Qaida would be that has gripped Iraq for far too long, we will continue on the run, the vast majority of the ISF would be carry- buying time for the Iraqi political process to negotiate the ing out their own missions, and former insurgents would solutions for a peaceful future. be standing beside us fighting extremists they probably ur enemy is ruthless and will no doubt attempt wouldn’t believe you, but that is exactly what you have to exploit the Ramadan season and influence done. Each of you has taken the initiative and helped to the debate back home by increasing their at- turn the tide. Without your hard work, dedication, and Otacks. So far we have experienced an astonishing selfless service there is absolutely no way we would be downward trend in the amount of IED incidents carried where we are today. Our course was set to secure Baghdad out just prior to Ramadan. Over the past three years, IED and its surrounding belts to buy the Government of Iraq attacks have peaked each year leading up to the Islamic and the Security Forces time to develop, and you have holy season, but this year the trend has been a reduction done that. You are accomplishing a mission most thought due to your recent hard work and dedication. We all must was impossible. You are all truly the heroes of our next remain vigilant and aggressive. If our operations continue greatest generation. CC CSM’S CORNER s I stated in a previous eye contact, and scream and shout that they saw this one article I was at one time or that. As was typically the case, the squadron command- the command sergeant er and I would stand behind the dais waiting for the event major of the 5th Squad- to begin. Aron, 15th Cavalry Regiment, the I remember it like it happened just yesterday: There I unit that is responsible for training stood with my Stetson pulled low over my eyes, looking all 19D cavalry scouts in the Army. straight ahead when a young mother walked up to me. She As such, I presided over all manner stood barely taller than that line drawn by my belt, but she of ceremonies that were conducted stood toe to toe with me, asked me to lean down, which I to recognize the accomplishments of did and she stated these exact words: “Don’t you ever for- our Soldiers in training. get that I didn’t sign any hand receipt. That’s my son out One such event we held was the Command Sgt. Maj. there and you’d best take good care of him.” family day retreat, recognizing the Neil Ciotola I have not, nor will I ever, forget that day, that moment MNC-I Command transition from Basic Combat Train- Sergeant Major and the profound implications of her statement. That was ing to Advanced Individual Train- her son on the field and she expected to get him back in at ing. The ceremony was conducted least as good a shape — if not better — as she had given at the end of the ninth week of training and it was the first him to us. I thought about the trust she extended to me, time a family member or significant other would lay eyes the physical personification of that institution we call the on their young Soldier after two months of isolation from , to do right by the gift we had been them. given. As one small slice of Americana, she made it clear On the day in question, family members would begin to me in an instant that it was not her son who had to live arriving as soon as the sun came up in anticipation of up to my expectations; no, it was her Army that had to live catching a glimpse of their trooper. It was all the cadre up to all the expectations of all the mothers and fathers could do to keep them separated. At 1500 hours we’d open who bid their son or daughter farewell as they began their the squadron parade field, family members would begin to journey through its ranks. take their seats and the Squadron family readiness group ’ve visited every brigade combat team we have in the would begin selling T-Shirts and other memorabilia. Good Iraqi Theater and done my best to visit every battal- Lord, families would scarf up any and all manner of items ion associated with the them, though the latter is still in an effort to show their support for their wannabe caval- Ia work in progress. Regardless of where I’ve gone, ryman. I’ve done my best to accompany as many troopers on their At 1650, the Soldiers would march onto the squadron patrols as my schedule and theirs would allow. I’ve seen parade field and a color guard of drill sergeants would Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines on the streets and in post in front of them. Mothers, fathers, sisters, wives, the fields of Iraq. I’ve accompanied them in their wheeled girlfriends and all manner of extended family would hover or tracked vehicles or as they walked their sector of re- at the limit of advance attempting to see their troop, make sponsibility. 2 The Coalition Chronicle As hard as it may be for some to admit or believe, the ing. Then it was straight to advanced training and maybe tactics, techniques and procedures all our services employ a school of choice before they arrived at their first duty outside the wire are pretty much consistent from one to station. Many of our young troopers spent all of two or the next. Two of the things that all services, regardless three weeks at their first duty station before hopping on of branch or nationality constantly stress are pre-combat a plane and flying to Kuwait before making the final leap checks and pre-combat inspections. More often than not north into Iraq. Many are still 18 and don’t even know how I observe elements as they prepare to exit the FOB, COB, to balance a checkbook or manage their money for that JSS, combat outpost or battle position. I watch as many matter. Then again, when we were their age, neither did troopers literally throw their gear on or throw it in a ve- we. Disturbing as it may be to some, many units take their hicle and rush outside the wire. I listen as Soldiers, Sailors, newest arrivals out on mission the first day in country. Is Airmen and Marines tell that you? me “Same !@#$, different I’ve seen troopers day.” It was her Army that had to live exit the wire with either I cringe when they say dead or no batteries in that. I think of the more up to all the expectations of all their night vision de- than 3,700 killed in action vices. I’ve seen some we have endured and the the mothers and fathers who bid roll out of the wire with nearly 40,000 wounded a weapon that had not that we have sustained. I their son or daughter farewell as been cleaned in good think of how many of our they began their journey. Lord knows how long. fallen men and women I’ve seen some who exited the gate thinking don’t have a drop of the same thing. I think water with them as they of all the NCOs and officers that allow such an attitude to head out for an eight- to 12-hour patrol. Heck, I’ve accom- perpetuate itself in their ranks and again, I cringe. panied some and asked when they last downloaded their Don’t get me wrong ladies and gentlemen; I’ve seen magazines to inspect ammunition and they look at me some damned fine units out there doing all the right like I have a third eye. I ask their leaders why they don’t things. Much as it pains me to say it, darned near half inspect and they tell me they don’t want their trooper to of our troops don’t go through any deliberate process of think they don’t trust them. Good Lord, some leaders have preparation prior to rolling out, because again, it’s just their priorities all screwed up. more of the same !@#$ on a different day. I think of all the think of that mom that approached me that day on times I’ve asked a trooper when was the last time their the squadron parade field. I think of the words she leader inspected their equipment and most often I get he spoke and the look in her eyes. I think of how much or she does not. I’ve also heard a young troop tell me that Ishe’s counting on all of us to do the right thing. I their leader told them it’s the individual’s responsibility to have no doubt she was trusting I’d do my part to get her be ready, not the sergeant’s to check. Again, I cringe. son back home. I have no doubt there are tens of thou- I ask young leaders, corporals, sergeants, staff sergeants sands of loved ones back in the U.S. right now who are and some sergeants first class and gunnery sergeants when counting on us, trusting that we’ll do the right thing. Then last they inspected their troops. You’d be amazed, but a I think of all those leaders who don’t want their troopers to significant percentage of the leadership I question tells me think they don’t trust them. they don’t inspect their troops because they know what to If you’re one of those leaders who worries about what do. All I can say is I’m sure glad my son isn’t assigned to your trooper thinks as you endeavor to do the right thing, your unit. then your priorities are all screwed up. If you’re one of y son tells me to trust him when he goes out those leaders who doesn’t inspect your troopers or equip- at night. Even though I do, it does not mean ment before you head out on the next mission, be honest; it I do not ask him where he’s going, who he’s has nothing to do with trust, you’re just plain lazy or you Mgoing to be with, and what time is he going were taught wrong. to return. Even though I trust him, it doesn’t mean I don’t I cannot count the number of times I’ve made a correc- scrutinize his car each weekend. While he thinks I borrow tion and a leader of every shape and size has asked me if I his little 240SX to look cool, I actually do it to make sure don’t have anything better to do. My answer to them then the brakes, lights and all the bells and whistles work. I and now is still the same; “Nope, that’s what I get paid to actually check to ensure he’s current on his inspection and do: Check everything, assume nothing” and have the back- registration. I don’t want him to think I don’t trust him, bone to enforce it. but then again he’s 18 and I’m 49. I’ve got the experience. I for one will not be the person who looks a mother in He goes out in an effort to gain what I already have — real the eye and know in my heart I did not do everything I life skills and experience. could to bring her son or daughter home alive. It has noth- Many of our youngsters engaged in combat operations ing to do with trust, but everything to do with who trusts went straight from home to boot camp or basic train- us. What kind of leader are you? CC The Coalition Chronicle 3 COALITION NEWS BRIEFS MNC-I launches Iraqi sacrifices self to Phantom Strike stop suicide bomber

BAGHDAD — Multi-National Corps-Iraq launched FOB HAMMER — An Iraqi man gave his life for a major offensive, Operation Phantom Strike, Aug. 13 four U.S. Soldiers and eight civilians when he inter- in a powerful crackdown to disrupt al-Qaida in Iraq cepted a suicide bomber during a Concerned Citizens and Shia extremist operations. It consists of simultane- meeting in the town of al-Arafia Aug. 18. ous operations throughout Iraq focused on pursuing The incident occurred while Soldiers from 3rd Squad- remaining AQI terrorists and Iranian-supported ex- ron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry tremist elements. Division, were talking with members of the al-Arafia “Coalition Forces and Iraqi Security Forces continue Concerned Citizens, a volunteer community group, at to achieve successes and pursue security throughout a member’s house. many areas of Iraq,” said Lt. Gen. Ray Odierno, MNC- “I was about 12 feet away when the bomber came I commander. “My intent is to continue to pressure around the corner,” said Staff Sgt. Sean Kane, of Los AQI and other extremist elements throughout Iraq to Altos, Calif., acting platoon sergeant of Troop B, 3-1 reduce their capabilities.” Cav. “I was about to engage when he jumped in front Operation Phantom Strike is a joint Iraqi Security of us and intercepted the bomber as he ran toward us. and Coalition Forces operation to eliminate remaining As he pushed him away, the bomb went off.” elements of AQI and other extremist groups, prevent- Kane said he felt the loss personally because he had ing them from causing further terrorism and inciting met and interacted with his rescuer many times before sectarian violence. It will intensify pressure on extrem- the incident. ist networks across the entire theater. CC “He was high-spirited and really believed what the group (Concerned Citizens) was doing,” he said. CC Troops secure route for Shia pilgrimage Search for MIA Soldiers turns up terrorists MAHMUDIYAH — A shrine in Baghdad’s Kad- himiya neighborhood named after the seventh Shia YUSIFIYAH — Coalition and Iraqi troops conduct- Imam, Musa al-Kazim was the focal point of a pilgrim- ed Operation Polar Schism III Aug. 11 in search of in- age Aug. 7-10. formation regarding the May 12 abduction of two U.S. A large shrine built over his tomb and the tomb of Soldiers. his grandson, ninth Shia Imam Muhammad at-Taqi, Soldiers of 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd beside him, is now a shrine called the Kazimain. Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, and 4th Battalion, Troops of 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regi- 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, flew across the ment, 2nd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division conducted River to track down a well-known terrorist patrols along the highway south of Baghdad that Co- cell leader. alition Forces dubbed Route Jackson, the route most Iraqi Army soldiers entered the mosque where Co- pilgrims took to the northern Baghdad neighborhood. alition Forces suspected the cell leader was hiding. Mayzel said the battalion had expected more pil- Coalition Forces secured the area outside the building, grims than actually passed through their area of opera- while Iraqi Forces entered the mosque. They detained tions. Only about 10,000 people traveled through the 22 suspected terrorists, including four who had fired sector between Lutifiyah and Rasheed. upon them as they entered the area. The unit continues CC its search for to the missing Soldiers. CC 4 The Coalition Chronicle Spc. Patrick Apkin, a scout with Troop B, 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Cavalry Divsion, kicks in the locked gate to an abandoned building during a neighborhood search in Sab Al Bor. Cavalry troopers team Coalition with Estonians, ISF to Cooperation clear Sab Al Bor’s streets Story, photos by relationships and trust with locals they have been Army Staff Sgt. Jon Cupp getting to know for the last nine months. They also MND-B PAO took the opportunity to garner any possible informa- tion that the people could give them on insurgents or early 150 combined troops from the 1st Squad- extremists operating in their neighborhoods. ron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st “This is a large multi-troop operation that shows Cavalry Division, the 2nd Brigade, 9th Iraqi the people we’re out here to support them by mak- Army Division (Mechanized), the Sab Al Bor ing their streets safer,” said Capt. Timothy Dugan, NIraqi Police and Estonian troops from Estonian Pla- commander, Troop B, 1/7 Cav., whose unit patrols toon 15 teamed with a few neighborhood watch the village every day. During the operation, his troop volunteers to clear Sab Al Bor’s streets of insurgents worked with other Garryowen units, including Head- and extremists as they moved in teams through each quarters Troop, Forward Support Troop and the neighborhood in the city Aug. 11. attached Battery D, 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Covering every block during the operation, the Regiment. “This is the largest dismounted operation troops and their joint partners searched door to door that the people have seen in this city for a long time.” for possible weapons caches and continued to build “It’s a significant mission because it’s the first time

The Coalition Chronicle 5 Capt. Timothy Dugan (left), commander, Troop B, 1/7 Cav., 1st Bde., 1st Cav. Div., talks to his Iraqi Army counterparts from the 2nd Brigade, 9th Iraqi Army Division during a joint operation in Sab Al Bor. we’ve had the Iraqi Police on a search with us,” add- street. In the alleys and near each house, Soldiers ed Dugan, who hails from Audubon, Pa. handed out candy and toys to children who ran up to ithin a few minutes of his troops hitting the talk with them. streets, Dugan received a call on his radio. Along with searches, the Soldiers gave out aid Information received by volunteers led packages which included food and other items. the Estonian troops working with Dugan’s “The people here see that we’re here to help. Any WSoldiers to finding blasting caps often used in the con- time during an operation like this one when we can struction of improvised explosive devices. They were get them food and other rations it’s a good day,” Du- able to detain one suspect. gan said. “A food package contains seeds, beans and Shortly after getting the call, Dugan received word rice — usually enough to feed 20,000 people — and that based on tips from volunteers, Iraqi Army troops this is a town of about 7,000.” from the 2nd Bde., 9th IA Div. discovered a Sten ma- On one of the city streets, Dugan stopped by a chine gun and had detained one more suspect. small local store where a woman greeted him with a “Any time we get information from the people smile. here, we’re making money,” Dugan ssaid. “The Dugan spoke with her through an interpreter while people are becoming more confident about giving out pulling a few Iraqi dinars from his pocket to buy a information. We don’t know what the insurgents look soda from her small corner shop. like and the locals do. They have been a great help in “So how are things going here?” Dugan asked the identifying the bad guys in their neighborhoods.” shop keeper. At each stop during the search, the troops would With smiling eyes, she answered “zehn” which is see familiar faces of people they have built relation- the Arabic word for good. Things have been improv- ships with in the houses and store fronts lining each ing over the past several months with fewer attacks

6 The Coalition Chronicle and the people feel more confident and safe when Loucks, who has been learning Arabic to better they see Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition troops communicate with the locals, said he enjoys his work patrolling their streets, she told Dugan. on the streets of Sab Al Bor. According to Dugan, this is typical of how most of “This is what I joined the Army to do,” said Loucks. the people in Sab Al Bor are feeling these days. “If there’s no security then the people can’t enjoy their Dugan said he attests the decrease in violence and lives, it makes me feel good to know that I’m doing improved stability in the area to the daily presence of my part to help them. Most of them are telling us that Iraqi Security Forces and Co- they can now come outside alition troops working out of “Most of them are with more piece of mind.” a nearby joint security station After the joint operation along with the recent suc- telling us that they can ended with two suspects in cess of neighborhood watch custody and some confiscated volunteers who have aided in now come outside with contraband weapons in tow, the catching of insurgents and more peace of mind.” Spc. Daniel Emblen, who is at- extremists. tached to Troop B and works When Spc. Roy Loucks, a with the Estonian platoon, mortarman attached to Troop Army Spc. Roy Loucks reflected on the success of B, first came to the Sab Al Bor mortarman theday’s operation. area, attacks were constant “It really has been a great and he said he has seen first mission,” said Emblen, an hand the changes of which Dugan speaks. Elizabethtown, Ky native. “We feel like we’re accom- “Before we rolled into the village, things were in plishing great things here — continuing to support total chaos,” said Loucks, a Honolulu, Hawaii native. the Iraqis as they take care of things and move to- “Things have gotten much better. We used to have wards their transition.” to do a lot more counter fires to intimidate the insur- “I also love working with the Estonians, who are a gents, but things have gotten more quiet now.” great group of guys,” he added. C C

Iraqi Police and Soldiers from 1/7th Cav. patrol the streets of Sab Al Bor.

The Coalition Chronicle 7 8 The Coalition Chronicle Freedom’s Focal Point Freedom’s Focal Point 9 - The Coalition Chronicle

A A Special Forces Soldier fires a MK-19 grenade launcher at an area Marine Lance Cpl. Gregory Dolgner and Marine Pfc. Raymond J. Hahn, An Iraqi sergeant corrects movement a under soldier’s a simulated over

August 4, 2007, Hawr Rajab, Iraq. Soldiers with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 40th Squadron, 1st A, Troop with Soldiers Iraq. Rajab, Hawr 2007, 4, August Bottom left: with Company B, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Rgiment, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, check to see if chicken is ready before serving their platoon Aug. 26 near Saqlawiyah. Photo by Marine Sgt. Robert B. Brown. Top left: Top insurgent Division,suspected INfantry a 25th secure Brigade, 4th Regiment, Cavalry Thomas. 2nd Class Justin K. Officer Aug. 4. Photo by Navy Petty in Hawr Rajab right: Top 22. Aug. Kalsu Base Operating Forward near exercise training a during firefight head Thomas. Officer 2nd Class Justin K. Photo by Navy Petty Bottom right: Photo by Navy Seaman Zachary Hernandez. Aug. 16. target near

10 The Coalition Chronicle Freedom’s Focal Point Aug. 6. Photo by Navy Seaman David Quillen. district Aug. 6. PhotobyNavy Seaman David Rashid East Baghdad’s in checkpoint a at Cup Asia the in Now newspaper and celebrates the Iraqi national soccer team’s win Baghdad the of copy Policea IraqiNational holds the Aof member

Freedom’s Focal Point 11 The Coalition Chronicle

12 The Coalition Chronicle Freedom’s Focal Point Officer 3rd Class David Quillen. Officer 3rdClassDavid District of Baghdad Aug. 30. Photo by Navy Petty medical Rashid East the in civilians wounded on emergency services perform Division Infantry 2nd Brigade, 3rd Regiment, Infantry 12th talion, left: Bottom Photo by Army Sgt.RachelM.Ahner. Taji17. the area Aug. in Market Iraqi’s for living fic Control Southduringavolunteersignup Point Trafthrough passes Division, Cavalry 1st gade, Bri 1st Regiment, Cavalry 8th Battalion, 2nd C, Far right: by Photo Navy Petty Officer2ndClassJohansenLaurel. Baghdad. in 13 Aug. leader terrorist suspected detain to operation an during house a clearing finishes Forces Special U.S. by vised Topleft: An Iraqi Special Operations soldier ad soldier Operations Special Iraqi An An Abrams tank belonging to Company Soldiers with Company D, 2nd Bat 2nd D, Company with Soldiers - - - -

Freedom’s Focal Point 13 The Coalition Chronicle

14 The Coalition Chronicle Freedom’s Focal Point Abu Sayda Aug. 12.Photo by Air Force Staff Sgt.Dennis J.Henry Jr. 1st Iraqithe and Division, Cavalry Little in Brigade,patrol dismounted a perform Army 3rd Regiment, Cavalry 9th Battalion, 6th the from Soldiers

Freedom’s Focal Point 15 The Coalition Chronicle

16 The Coalition Chronicle Freedom’s Focal Point Freedom’s Focal Point 17 - The Coalition Chronicle Marine Sgt. Jeromy L. Adair, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, An Iraqi National Police officer checks a driver’s duringID a snap tactical control Soldiers detain and investigate a suspected insurgent in central Iraq. The Soldiers

A Marine AV-8B Harrier refuels midflight from a KC-130J Hercules from Marine Aerial Re Aerial Marine from Hercules KC-130J a from midflight refuels Harrier AV-8B Marine A Army Sgt. Christopher Swienton, Company B, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry

are attached to Company B, 3rd Infantry Battalion, Regiment, 509th 4th Parachute Brigade, 25th Thomas. Class Justin K. Officer 2nd Infantry Division. Photo by Navy Petty demonstrates demonstrates proper detainee handling techniques to Iraqi soldiers Asad. Photo by Marine Cpl. Shane S. Keller. Al from Aug. 17 in Army Division 2d Brigade, 7th Iraqi Bottom left: Kingston. Timothy Army Sgt. checkpoint outside Combat Outpost Cahill Sept. 2. Photo by Middle left: Top right: Top Aug. 14. Anbar Photo province by Marine Al Squadron-252/352, while flying over Transport fueler Cline III. Lance Cpl. James F. Bottom right: Top Top left: to order in vehicle suspect a of window the breaks Division, Airborne 82nd Brigade, 3rd Regiment, Sgt. 1st Class Robert C. Brogan. Army Aug. 17. Photo by Abu Karmah move it to a safe area in

Phantom Strike

Kicking Things Off

Fire teams Gunny and Storm from 2nd Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery, 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division fire a M109A6 Paladin into the Diyala River Valley in support of Operation Lightning Hammer Aug. 13. Photo by Army Spc. Ryan Stroud. Indirect fires preceded Lightning Hammer in Diyala MND-N PAO Soldiers from 6th Squadron, villages in the river valley. 9th Armored Reconnaissance The 5/73 Cav. Soldiers defeated ulti-National Division- Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry a number of ineffective small arms North troops kicked off Division answered the early stages attacks and killed three terrorists, Operation Lightning of the operation with an air assault, detained eight and found a weap- Hammer with a boom clearing two villages. ons cache. Mvia a barrage of indirect fires and By mid-day the recon Soldiers Air Force B-1 Bombers dropped Air Force-delivered munitions on discovered a weapons cache, a ordnance on the weapon caches carefully selected targets in Diyala hardened fighting position, five and IEDs, eliminating the threats. province Aug. 14 as part of a ‘no improvised explosive devices and “We are moving forward togeth- safe haven’ approach to dealing a house rigged with explosives. er for the benefit of the Iraqi people with al-Qaida in Iraq terrorists. “Enemies of Iraq will not get a and this operation proves the The operations were part of Multi- chance to rest or hide in Diyala growing strength of Iraq’s partner- National Corps-Iraq’s Operation Province,” said Brig. Gen. Mick ship with the Coalition,” Bednarek Phantom Strike. Bednarek, deputy commanding said. More than 300 artillery muni- general for operations, Task Force In another part of Diyala, the tions, precision rockets and bombs Lightning and MND-N. “The 5th Iraqi Army Division and 5th were dropped throughout the people of Diyala are now showing Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, night and into the morning, target- their support for the Iraqi Security 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division ing suspected al-Qaida targets and Forces and our Coalition Forces. discovered an AQI encampment, setting the stage for a ground force They are realizing the difference believed to house 25 fighters, and attack in the Diyala River Valley. being made by their cooperation in a substantial weapons cache of Soldiers from three different rooting out extremists.” IED making material, mortars and brigades, participating in three Soldiers from 5th Squadron, rocket propelled grenades. The smaller operations joined together 73rd Cavalry Regiment, attached unit also discovered an assembled with Iraqi Forces, launched Light- to 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Divi- IED. The cache was reduced in ning Hammer. sion, conducted two air assaults on place. CC 18 The Coalition Chronicle Phantom Strike

ROLL OUT! A tank with Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, supporting Task Force Highlander, Regimental Combat Team 2, speeds across the Iraqi desert and bursts from a dust cloud. The tanks spent a week combing the desert in support of Operation Punisher III. Tanks, Highlanders continue punishing enemy in Al Anbar Story, photos by very rapidly,” said Master Sgt. Jerri A. Schlicken- Marine Cpl. Ryan C. Heiser mayer, company tank leader. “We have high-powered MNF-W PAO optics that can see large distances night or day, huge amounts of firepower, and great armor protection ome people would agree the word ‘punish’ is — especially from IEDs. Nothing can destroy it and it the perfect term to describe what Marines in is very difficult to hide from. It’s a perfect tool.” al Anbar province near the western Euphra- The tanks spent several days combing the battal- tes River valley have been doing to insur- ion’s area of operation south of the Euphrates River. Sgents in their local areas. They searched several small villages and Bedouin First Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, camps, as well as caves and wadis. Regimental Combat Team 2, kicked off Operation “Our presence always makes the civilians happy,” Punisher III the first week of August. Company B, 1st said Lance Cpl. James A. Robson, an Abrams tank Tank Battalion, which has been providing support for main-gun loader with the company. “They know 1st LAR and Task Force Highlander since the begin- when we roll up they can feel safe and don’t need to ning of its deployment in March, launched Headquar- be scared anymore because we are there to help. Their ters and 1st Platoons in support of the task force and expressions are great, especially the kids. They see this the operation. huge piece of machinery rumble up and they know “Tanks help out in situations like this, where you it’s there to protect them, as part of their defense. It have a large area of open terrain, because we are a makes you feel great.” highly mobile element that can cover a lot of ground Schlickenmayer, a Bismarck, N.D., native, said the

The Coalition Chronicle 19 Marines love going to help support other units during “We come out and do overwatch, clearing, ve- operations. hicle check points, and joint operations with grunts “Every time we go out, we seem to find something, through the cities and stuff, but nothing feels as good whether it be a cache or just an ammunitions storage as when you come back with something like this,” area or whatever. It makes the said Cpl. Daniel J. Halpenny, Marines feel like they are con- a tank gunner with the com- tributing, like they are a part of “That’s why we are pany, indicating the machine something, and they get excited gun. “We love finding stuff, about that,” Schlickenmayer here — to stop it that’s why we are here, to stop said. before it reaches the it before it reaches the cities his time the Marines and can be used against us. came back with a cities and can be used Who knows how many lives small cache of four against us.” are saved just by finding one mortar rounds and weapon, one round, one fuse. Tfuses, a 14.5mm heavy machine Every one of them counts.” gun — larger than its more Marine Cpl.. Daniel J. Halpenny Operation Punisher III was common cousin, the 50-caliber tank gunner an ongoing part of the regi- machine gun the Marine Corps mental-wide Operation Maw- favors — which was outfitted tini, which is aimed at coun- with a mount and chair for anti-aircraft capabilities, tering an insurgent surge of activity in the Al Anbar and 500 brand-new 14.5mm rounds still in their pack- province, as well as disrupting the flow of weapons aging. and other illegal items toward urban areas.CC

The sun sets in the western Euphrates River Valley as a tank sits in an overwatch position.

20 The Coalition Chronicle Understanding Ramadan Month of reverence marks Muhammad’s revelation Story, photo by “This is the month when all inap- received the Quran. Army Sgt. Abel Trevino propriate behavior is to be nullified “Laylat-al-Qadr, which is the night MNC-I PAO and we are to focus strictly on our of power, all devout Muslims con- mission of pleasing God,” Shabazz, gregate in the local mosque and pray sundown in mid-Septem- the only U.S. Army Muslim chaplain tarweeh salah (prayers) and ask God ber marks the beginning in Iraq, said. “No food or water is to for forgiveness for past sins,” Shabazz of the month of Rama- build our intestinal fortitude and resis- said. “The prayer consists of Muslims dan. Muslims across the tance to these standing in globe observe this month of blessing evil forces that line, listening Athrough fasting, prayer and charity. take us away “We are to focus to the recita- The tradition of Ramadan dates from God. tion of the back to 610 A.D. Its timing is deter- “Lastly, the strictly on our Quran from mined by the cycle of the full moon. fast teaches mission of the Imam, and “Ramadan falls on or about Sep- us the very reciting from tember 13-15 and it goes back 10 essence of pleasing God.” the Quran days each year because it is based on how poor and — usually as the lunar calendar as opposed to the hungry people Army Chaplain Khallid Shabazz much as 15 Gregorian calendar,” said Chaplain feel on a daily to 30 minutes Khallid Shabazz, 1st Battalion, 227th level,” he con- Muslim chaplain absorbing Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry tinued. “When the message Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. one is hungry of God in to the hearts of the believ- Since the month of reverence is and does not have food, it helps them ers. The Quran was believed to be based on the lunar calendar, its begin- to be more conscious of their broth- revealed on this specific night, so the ing and end vary globally. Muslims ers and sisters in humanity who are believers celebrate the night hoping typically consult the local imam and without those basic items.” for as many blessings from God as to determine the precise start. The fast is broken at nightfall with possible.” This time is important to Muslims a meal called iftar. Muslims usually id ul-Fitr officially marks as it is the origin of the Quran. spend the time after iftar visiting the end of Ramadan. The “(Ramadan) is the month when friends and family and reading the holiday is full of mixed the Holy Quran was revealed to the Quran. emotions for Muslims Prophet Muhammad by the angel At night, Muslims conduct the and is marked by celebration for both Gabriel,” he said. “So Muslims revere Taraweeh prayer, or night prayer. The Ethe ending of the fast and thanks to the month because of the reverence of Taraweeh Salaah consists of extra God for granting them the willpower the Quranic revelation.” prayers, usually in even numbers of needed to complete the trials of the Muslims use prayer and fasting as raka’ah. These prayers are typically previous month. tributes and testaments to their faith. conducted en masse at a mosque, “The word Eid in Arabic means While important and highly visible, where 1/30th of the Quran is recited celebration, so the celebration begins these are only two of the aspects that nightly so the entire Quran is read by after the completion of Ramadan,” are used to demonstrate reverence the conclusion of Ramadan. Shabazz said. “It is a time when many during Ramadan. Muslims are en- The 27th night of Ramadan is are sad that the time of reflection is couraged to practice the teachings of called Laylat-al-Qadr, the night of over and many are also grateful be- Islam sternly and abstain from sex and power. It is believed that on this cause life again takes on some form of smoking during the time frame. night the prophet Muhammad normalcy.” CC The Coalition Chronicle 21 The Road Back Soldiers help Adhamiyah begin Capt. Albert Marckwardt, commander of Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, talks with a shop owner in the main market of its recovery Baghdad’s Adhamiyah neighborhood.

Story, photos by hamiyah since February, compared The other major event was an Army Sgt. Mike Pryor Adhamiyah at its lowest point uprising by Adhamiyah residents MND-C PAO to the brutal, civil war-era New against terrorists. On Aug. 5, a York City portrayed in the movie group of citizens, fed-up with ter- ow’s business?” is “Gangs of New York.” rorist activity in their community, the question on the “There was no real authority. stormed the Abu Hanifa Mosque tip of Capt. Al- It was just the law of the jungle,” — a well known terrorist sanctu- bert Marckwardt’s Lundquist said. ary — and expelled the insurgents, ‘Htongue as he strolls through the Today, while major stumbling beginning a chain of events that main market of Baghdad’s Ad- blocks remain, recent improve- led Coalition Forces to detain more hamiyah District. ments in the political and economic than 50 suspected terrorists and The answer, though, is evident situation have given Soldiers like seize five large weapons caches all around him. Business in Ad- Marckwardt reason to be hope- over the next two days. hamiyah is booming. The formerly ful about Adhamiyah’s future. “To me, it feels like the com- run-down market is bustling. The new sense of optimism can be munity is starting to stand up for Merchandise spills out of the ki- traced back to two major events. itself. They’re fed up,” said Staff osks and stands, and the street is The first was the arrival in July of Sgt. Christopher Grimm, of Cabot, clogged with shoppers. For Marck- about 500 Soldiers from 3/7 Cav. Ark., a squad leader with Troop B. wardt, who commands Troop B, as part of the surge of U.S. forces Marckwardt said all the progress 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regi- into Baghdad. The 3/7’s arrival in- that U.S. forces have been able to ment, 2nd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Di- stantly quadrupled the number of achieve in Adhamiyah over the vision, responsible for security in Soldiers operating in Adhamiyah. past few months has been due the area, it’s an encouraging scene. The additional combat power to the new-found resolve of the “It’s like in the U.S. when we has enabled Soldiers to maintain people. started to come out of the depres- a constant presence on the streets, “Our success here would not be sion and everyone’s spirits were capitalize quickly on informa- possible if the community didn’t lifted. We’re starting to hit that tion, and mount precision strikes want it,” Marckwardt said. kind of recovery period here,” the against key leaders of the insurgen- The Domino Effect Columbia, Md., native said. “It’s cy, Marckwardt said. In effect, they The idea that Adhamiyah is in a a night and day difference from can now treat the disease instead of resurgent period is not just wish- when we got here.” the symptoms. ful thinking. There are a number New Beginnings “The enemy can’t be comfortable of concrete indicators of progress. Sgt. Bryan Lundquist, an explo- like they have been. They can’t In the past month, entrepreneurs sive ordnance disposal team ser- sleep in the same bed every night. opened a new fuel station, provid- geant who has been based in Ad- They’re on the run,” he said. ing residents a steady supply of

22 The Coalition Chronicle affordable gasoline, several banks Despite all these successes, the calls this point of no return “irre- which had been closed re-opened, insurgents are not beaten yet, versible momentum,” and said it and a factory making uniforms and Marckwardt said. depends on Iraqis taking the lead. other clothes opened and is em- “We’ve got to stay vigilant. If “If we do it all for them, the ploying 50 workers, said Kissim- I was the enemy, I’d be thinking, problems will come right back as mee, Fla., native, Maj. Ike Sallee, ‘How would I react? What would I soon as we leave,” said Roanoke, 3/7’s operations officer. do to counter this?’” he said. Va., native Staff Sgt. William Schil- “The gas station on its own may The dangers that still lurk in the ling, of Troop B. not mean much, but then you have area were clear during a patrol Adhamiyah has gone through a the bank that just opened, and with Troop boom-and- then you have the factory, and all A to distrib- bust cycle these other things. That momen- ute humani- “We’ve been telling before, said tum starts rolling. It’s the domino tarian aid Cabot, Ark.- effect,” Sallee said. rations in them sto stand up, native Staff On the security side, the num- a poor part and they’ve done just Sgt. Christo- bers also show dramatic improve- of the city pher Grimm. ment. Total attacks — which in- Aug. 22. As that.” Grimm, who clude small arms, mortars, rocket the Soldiers was based propelled grenades, and impro- were distrib- Army Capt. Albert Marckwardt in the area vised explosive devices — are uting bags two years down by 70 percent since July 20, of rice and Troop B commander ago and saw said squadron intelligence analyst flour, a huge months of Sgt. Timothy Luna, of North Olm- explosion erupted somewhere progress vanish when his unit stead, Ohio. Soldiers from the 3/7 close by, shaking the ground. Mo- turned over security to an Iraqi Cav. have captured 34 suspected ments later, the report came in Army unit that wasn’t ready for terrorists in addition to the 50 de- over the radio: IED. the responsibility. He said he wor- tained after the Abu Hanifa raids. “Mount up,” said 1st Lt. John ries about the cycle recurring. More importantly, the people of Gassmann, platoon leader. “My biggest fear is history re- Adhamiyah have joined in the ef- The Soldiers raced off in their peating itself,” Grimm said. fort. More than 700 residents have humvees, leaving a few bags of Leaders from 3/7 Cav. are de- applied to join the Critical Infra- rice lying in the street. A few termined to make sure that doesn’t structure Guard Force, a security blocks away, another platoon had happen. One way is by working force of local people with the sup- come within 100 feet of a deadly with the Iraqi Army to improve port of 3/7 Cav. to protect schools, deep-buried IED. The bomb had their tactical skills and profession- hospitals, mosques and govern- exploded prematurely, leaving a alism. The squadron conducts joint ment buildings. phone booth-sized crater in the patrols with the Iraqi soldiers daily More than 60 have completed road. Gassmann’s Soldiers reacted and has begun using embedded the guard force training and will quickly to set up an outer security Iraqi platoons in some U.S. units. soon receive assignments. cordon around the area and began When the Soldiers conduct hu- The unit has also been trying to questioning people. The smiles and manitarian missions for Adhami- build on the sense of communal laughter that had been evident as yah residents, they make sure Iraqi pride by renovating some of the the Soldiers handed out food bags soldiers are involved. more blighted areas of the city. The were gone, replaced by cool pro- The other way is through the unit has funded projects to remove fessionalism. Gassmann said being Critical Infrastructure Guard trash and sewage from the streets, able to adapt to changing circum- Force. In a process not unlike the beautify a public square, renovate stances was the key to success in reconciliation effort that turned schools, and more. Such projects Adhamiyah. around Anbar province, 3/7 Cav. rejuvenate cities, Marckwardt said. “We have to always be ready to has capitalized on a groundswell “You look at cities in the U.S. switch gears,” he said. of resentment against terrorists by that are run down, and the small- Irreversible Momentum essentially deputizing community est things can be tipping points The end goal of all the 3/7 members to fight back. in turning them around,” he said. Cav.’s efforts in Adhamiyah is to “We’ve been telling them to “It’s about bringing pride back into bring progress up to a level where stand up, and they’ve done just the city.” it can’t be undone. Marckwardt that,” Marckwardt said. CC The Coalition Chronicle 23 An Iraqi juvenile detainees puts the finishing touches on his brick to show his willingness to reform during a class at Dar al-Hik- mah, a school for minors detained by Coalition Forces run by Task Force 134. Photos by Army Staff Sgt. Jacob Boyer. by Air Force 1st Lt. Angela Webb When Iraqi juveniles TF-134 PAO ar Al-Hikmah, also known as the “House find themselves in of Wisdom”, is a Multi-National Force-Iraq Ddetention operations facility educating more Coalition custody, a than 800 juvenile detainees held in Coalition Forces custody. “The mission of Dar Al-Hikmah is to ensure that new school looks to the future of Iraq is educated, safeguarded and given a vision of hope for the future of pursuing truth,” ensure they have said Marine Maj. Gen. Doug Stone, MNF-I deputy commanding general of detention operations. “The future of Iraq will be secured by investing in its chil- dren. We — Iraqis and Americans — will do this not by occupying their time to stay busy, but occupying A Better their minds with a quality education and giving them the opportunity to perhaps excel in ways previously thought impossible.” To educate the juvenile detainees, a curriculum of Tomorrow six core classes are taught: Arabic, math, geography, science, civics and English. They also participate in

24 The Coalition Chronicle music, art and sports activities at the center. The classes are taught at different education lev- els. To ensure a juvenile is slotted in the right level, assessments by Dar Al-Hikmah faculty are given to them when they enter detention. The education pro- gram is mandatory for all juveniles age 17 and under. Assessments as of August 2007 found that approxi- mately 26 percent had no education through primary school, 17 percent were at the middle to high school education level, and 38 percent had a high school or higher education level. The school is still fairly new — it opened Aug. 14 — but since then Iraqi leaders and figures have re- quested to see the center and its students. Many Iraqi visitors have donated items for the juvenile detainees’ quality of life there. ecently, Iraqi Ministry of Youth and Sports representatives visited and donated soccer Runiforms, sneaker, cleats and other sports equipment for the students to use. “We would like to see you all released and at home with your families, but that is not possible at this time,” said a Ministry of Youth and Sports adminis- trator speaking to a group of juvenile detainees. “We are working with General Stone and the Coalition Forces to improve your stay here, but we need you Maj. Gen. Doug Stone, Task Force 134 commanding general, to take this opportunity to learn and study so that we speaks to a class at Dar al Hikmah. can create a better future for Iraq.” Dr. Abd al-Kareem al-Samirra`I, deputy chairman and a future,” the beginning of the letter reads. of Security and Defense Committee of the parliament, “I can see major differences in the students since visited the site Sept. 6. He was representing the Iraqi the school opened,” said Nesrin Dickow, Task Force Vice President Tariq al-Hashimi and spoke to the de- 134 linguist and cultural advisor. “Before we began tainees on what the program means for Iraq. this experience, all the children were concerned with “This is a great program that the Coalition Forces was ‘When am I getting out of here?’ They were an- have created for you and we are gry and depressed. Now they working together, so eventu- still want to be released, but it ally we can bring this program “The future of Iraq is obvious they are happy and to life throughout Iraq,” said will be secured proud of their achievements al-Samirra`I. “We would like and are eager to learn and look you all to set an example and by investing in its forward to school.” seize this opportunity to learn children.” Before Dar Al-Hikmah as much as you can, so when opened, classes were held at the U.S. leaves, we can rebuild Camp Cropper, a Coalition our country with your educated Marine Maj. Gen. Doug Stone Forces theater internment facil- minds.” MNF-I deputy commanding ity. During a class at Dar al-Hik- general of detainee operations “Since the school opened, mah, the juveniles were given vast improvements with class- the collaborative assignment of room space, sports fields and writing a letter to Iraqi leader- other learning materials have ship. created a better process to educate the youth of Iraq,” “We, the children of Iraq, and Iraq’s future urge Stone said. “We are on the right path to complete the you to work together, to set aside your differences mission of educating Iraq’s youth, but it has to be a to help build this nation. We are all Iraqis who must combined effort of Coalition Forces and Iraq to secure work together to build a nation which offer us hope its success.”CC The Coalition Chronicle 25 PhantomCitizens Strike Stand Up Residents aid paratroopers in denying insurgents, militias safe havens Story, photos by Army Sgt. Marcus Butler MND-C PAO

he people of Jurf as Sakhr have been living in a nightmare of sectar- ian violence being waged between al-Qaida in Iraq fighters and Jaysh Tal-Mahdi militants for more than a year. With help from concerned citizens fed up with the violence, paratroopers from 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 25th Infantry Divi- sion, are ending the reign of terror and oppression. Ongoing operations are pav- ing the way to safety, security and a better way of life. Lt. Col. Robert Balcavage, commander, 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute In- fantry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, talks to the sheik in The area of Jurf as Sakhr, a small agricul- charge of an area being cleared by the first phase of Operation Gecko. tural community nestled among the Eu- phrates River, date palm groves and farm- people and land in and around Jurf as Sakhr. land, has been the site of more than 400 When concerned citizens began standing up in the area, they attacks against asked for the help of local security citizens and secu- forces to drive out the militants and rity forces in the Concerned citizens take back their homes and land. region. Attacks helped the Iraqi Army peration Gecko, one part of include ambush- the Coalition Forces’ Opera- es, machine-gun and paratroopers move tion Phantom Thunder, was fire, car and truck the answer to the citizens call bombs as well along roads and farmland Ofor help. The operation began system- as the militant’s looking for IEDs. atically cleaning up the area, removing weapon of choice, deadly roadside bombs and arresting roadside bombs. the terrorists and militiamen respon- With no significant security presence sible for the violence and chaos that had blanketed the city. since October 2006, Shia militias and Sunni ‘This operation was conducted because the people in the area insurgents gained a strong hold over the were tired of living in fear of al-Qaida and Jaysh al-Mahdi,” said

26 The Coalition Chronicle Paratroopers from 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, take cover after being dropped off by UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters near Jurf as Sakhr as part of Operation Gecko.

Capt. Charles Canon, of Anchor- ing for IED threats. could be hired to repair and recon- age, Alaska, commander, Compa- uring the operation, struct areas damaged during a year ny B. “We started meeting with the the Concerned Citizens of sectarian violence. local sheiks of the area and they Program in Jurf as Sakhr While the operation is still un- wanted to be a part of the Con- has employed nearly 200 derway, Canon said the first phase cerned Citizens Program and help Dpeople and has 10 checkpoints was a huge success. The concerned clear the area of the militants.” manned by local residents. citizens are helping security forces Operation Gecko was broken The Iraqi Security Forces and find and destroy roadside bombs down into three phases focused on concerned citizens handed out and other weapons. They are clearing a section of Jurf as Sakhr, some 125,000 leaflets encouraging pointing out safe houses and point- and encompassed over 20 square residents to help the Concerned ing out terrorists and militiamen. kilometers of land to be searched Citizens Program and ISF keep “It was good to see the citizens and secured. peace. They also broadcasted out helping protect their neighbor- The citizens helped the Iraqi information on what was happen- hood,” Canon said. “They know Army and paratroopers move ing in their neighborhoods while that we cannot be here forever, so along the roads and farmland in other security teams assessed the they realized that is time to cooper- the Euphrates River valley search- road conditions so local contractors ate.”CC

The Coalition Chronicle 27 In Memoriam Names of coalition service members who died while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom between July 16 and August 15, 2007 July 16, 2007 Spc. Daniel F. Reyes, 24 1/5 Cav., 2nd Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Lance Cpl. Shawn W. Starkovich, 20 Greater love hath 2/377 PIR, 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. 3/1 Mar. Regt., 1st Mar. Div., 1st MEF August 9, 2007 no man than this: August 1, 2007 Staff Sgt. Alicia A. Birchett, 29 July 17, 2007 Sgt. 1st Class Travis S. Bachman, 30 326th Eng. Bn., 101 Sust. Bde., 101st Airborne Div. Sgt. Nathan S. Barnes, 23 that a man lay down 714th Security Force Lance Sgt. Chris Casey, 27 4/31 Inf., 2nd Bde., 10th Mountain Div. 1st Bn., Irish Guards Pfc. Brandon K. Bobb, 20 his life for his August 2, 2007 Lance Cpl. Kirk Redpath, 22 92nd MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Master Sgt. Julian Ingles Rios, 52 1st Bn., Irish Guards Petty Officer 1st Class Jeffrey L. Chaney, 35 friends. 130th Eng. Bn. Sgt. Michael E. Tayaoato, 27 EOD Mobile Unit 11 Spc. Christian Rojas-Gallego, 24 7th ESB, 1st MLG, 1st MEF Pfc. James J. Harrelson, 19 John 15:13 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. 2/16 Inf., 4th Bde., 1st Inf. Div. Staff Sgt. Joshua P. Mattero, 29 Spc. Eric D. Salinas, 25 August 10, 2007 Pfc. Ron J. Joshua Jr., 19 63rd Explosive Ordnance Bn. 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Staff Sgt. Joan D. Duran, 24 92nd MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Cpl. James H. McRae, 22 Staff Sgt. Fernando Santos, 29 5/73 Cav., 3rd Bde., 82nd Airborne Div. Chief Petty Officer Patrick L. Wade, 38 3rd Maint. Bn., CLR 35, 3rd MLG, 3rd MEF 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. EOD Mobile Unit 11 Hospitalman Daniesl S. NOble, 21 August 11, 2007 1st Mar. Div., Fleet Marine Force Pacific August 4, 2007 Pfc. William L. Edwards, 23 July 18, 2007 Cpl. Matthew R. Zindars, 21 Pfc. Jaron D. Holliday, 21 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Spc. Zachary R. Clouser, 19 2/1 Mar. Regt., 1st Mar. Div., 1st MEF 1/40 Cav., 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. Sgt. Scott L. Kirkpatrick, 26 1/26 Inf., 2nd Bde. 1st Inf. Div. Cpl. Jason K. Lafleur, 28 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Spc. Richard Gilmore III, 22 July 25, 2007 1/40 Cav., 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. Sgt. Andrew W. Lancaster, 23 1/26 Inf., 2nd Bde. 1st Inf. Div. Spc. Daniel A. Leckel, 19 Spc. Braden J. Long, 19 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Spc. Daniel E. Gomez, 21 1/28 Inf., 4th Bde., 1st Inf. Div. 1/40 Cav., 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. Spc. Justin O. Penrod, 24 1/26 Inf., 2nd Bde. 1st Inf. Div. Pfc. Matthew M. Murchison, 21 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Sgt. 1st Class Luis E. Gutierriz-Rosales, 38 July 26, 2007 720th MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Staff Sgt. William D. Scates, 31 1/26 Inf., 2nd Bde. 1st Inf. Div. Pvt. Michael A. Baloga, 21 Sgt. Dustin S. Wakeman, 25 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. 6/9 Cav., 3rd Bde., 1st Cav. Div. 1/40 Cav., 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. July 19, 2007 Spc. Charles E. Bilbrey Jr., 21 August 13, 2007 Senior Aircraftsman Matthew Caulwell, 22 5/7 Cav., 1st Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. August 5, 2007 Staff Sgt. Eric D. Cottrell, 39 B Flight, No. 1 Squadron, RAF Regt. Sgt. William R. Howdeshell, 37 Spc. Justin R. Blackwell, 27 5/82 FA, 4th Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Sgt. Ronald L. Coffelt, 36 5/7 Cav., 1st Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. 759th MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Spc. Alun R. Howells, 20 503rd MP Bn., 16th MP Bde. Spc. Jaime Rodriguez Jr., 19 Pvt. Jeremy S. Bohannon, 18 1/64 AR, 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Senior Aircraftsman Christopher Dunsmore, 24 5/7 Cav., 1st Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. 759th MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Pfc. Juan M. Lopez Jr., 23 B Flight, No. 1 Squadron, RAF Regt. Spc. Charles E. Leonard Jr., 29 5/82 FA, 4th Bde., 1st Cav. Div. July 29, 2007 1/8 Cav., 2nd Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Pfc. Paulomarko U. Pacificador, 24 July 20, 2007 Pfc. Cody C. Grater, 20 Tech Sgt. Joey D. Link, 29 5/82 FA, 4th Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Cpl. Rhett A. Butler, 22 407th BSB, 2nd Bde., 82nd Airborne Div. 39th Airlift Squadron 2/1 Cav., 4th Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Staff Sgt. Wilberto Suliveras, 38 August 14, 2007 2/8 Cav., 1st Bde., 1st Cav. Div. August 6, 2007 Staff Sgt. Sean P. Fisher, 29 July 21, 2007 Cpl. Juan M. Alcantara, 22 1/52 Avn., TF 49 Lance Cpl. Timothy Darren Flowers, 25 July 30, 2007 1/23 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Pfc. Shawn D. Hensel, 20 The Corps of Electrical Mechanical Engineers Cpl. Jason M. Kessler, 29 Pvt. Craig Barber, 20 2/23 Inf., 4th Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Cpl. Christopher G. Scherer, 21 2/75 Ranger Regt. 2nd Bn., The Royal Welsh Ogmore Spc. Steven R. Jewell, 26 1st CEB, 1st Mar. Div., 1st MEF Cpl. Sean A. Stokes, 24 Sgt. Nicholas A. Gummersall, 23 1/52 Avn., TF 49 Sgt. Jacob S. Schumuecker, 27 3/1 Mar. Regt., 1st Mar. Div., 1st MEF 1/23 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Chief Warrant Officer Christopher C. Johnson, 31 755th Recon/Decon Co. Spc. Kareem R. Khan, 20 1/52 Avn., TF 49 July 31, 2007 1/23 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Chief Warrant Officer Jackie L. McFarlane Jr., 30 July 22, 2007 Cpl. Steve Edwards, 35 Spc. Christopher T. Neiberger, 22 1/52 Avn., TF 49 Sgt. Shawn G. Adams, 21 Badger Sqd., 2nd Royal Tank Regt. Sutton 1/18 Inf., 2nd Bde., 1st Inf. Div. Staff Sgt. Stanley B. Reynolds, 37 3/509 PIR, 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. Spc. Zachariah J. Gonzalez, 23 Staff Sgt. Jacob M. Thompson, 26 1/52 Avn., TF 49 Lance Cpl. Bobby L. Twitty, 20 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. 1/23 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. CLB 6, CLR 2, 2nd MLG, 2nd MEF Pfc. Charles T. Heinlein Jr., 23 August 15, 2007 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. August 7, 2007 Sgt. Princess C. Samuels, 22 July 24, 2007 Pfc. Alfred H. Jairala, 29 Cpl. Reynold Armand, 21 HHT, 1st Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Sgt. Courtney D. Finch, 27 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. 2nd AA Bn., 2nd Mar. Div., 2nd MEF Spc. Zandra T. Walker, 28 714th Maint. Co. Sgt. Stephen R. Maddies, 41 Leading Aircraftman Martin Beard 4/227 Avn., 1st Air Cav. Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Spc. Camy Florexil, 20 473rd Counter Rocket, Artillery and Mortar Plt. No. 1 Squadron, RAF Regt. 1/28 Inf., 4th Bde., 1st Inf. Div. Sgt. Bradley W. Marshall, 37 Sgt. Jon E. Bonnell Jr., 22 Lance Cpl. Robert A. Lynch, 20 2/377 PIR, 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. 1/11 Mar. Regt., 1st Mar. Div. 1/12 Mar Regt., 3rd Mar. Div., 3rd MEF Spc. Donald M. Young, 19 28 The Coalition Chronicle In Memoriam Names of coalition service members who died while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom between July 16 and August 15, 2007 July 16, 2007 Spc. Daniel F. Reyes, 24 1/5 Cav., 2nd Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Lance Cpl. Shawn W. Starkovich, 20 2/377 PIR, 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. 3/1 Mar. Regt., 1st Mar. Div., 1st MEF August 9, 2007 August 1, 2007 Staff Sgt. Alicia A. Birchett, 29 July 17, 2007 Sgt. 1st Class Travis S. Bachman, 30 326th Eng. Bn., 101 Sust. Bde., 101st Airborne Div. Sgt. Nathan S. Barnes, 23 714th Security Force Lance Sgt. Chris Casey, 27 4/31 Inf., 2nd Bde., 10th Mountain Div. 1st Bn., Irish Guards Pfc. Brandon K. Bobb, 20 August 2, 2007 Lance Cpl. Kirk Redpath, 22 92nd MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Master Sgt. Julian Ingles Rios, 52 1st Bn., Irish Guards Petty Officer 1st Class Jeffrey L. Chaney, 35 130th Eng. Bn. Sgt. Michael E. Tayaoato, 27 EOD Mobile Unit 11 Spc. Christian Rojas-Gallego, 24 7th ESB, 1st MLG, 1st MEF Pfc. James J. Harrelson, 19 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. 2/16 Inf., 4th Bde., 1st Inf. Div. Staff Sgt. Joshua P. Mattero, 29 Spc. Eric D. Salinas, 25 August 10, 2007 Pfc. Ron J. Joshua Jr., 19 63rd Explosive Ordnance Bn. 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Staff Sgt. Joan D. Duran, 24 92nd MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Cpl. James H. McRae, 22 Staff Sgt. Fernando Santos, 29 5/73 Cav., 3rd Bde., 82nd Airborne Div. Chief Petty Officer Patrick L. Wade, 38 3rd Maint. Bn., CLR 35, 3rd MLG, 3rd MEF 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. EOD Mobile Unit 11 Hospitalman Daniesl S. NOble, 21 August 11, 2007 1st Mar. Div., Fleet Marine Force Pacific August 4, 2007 Pfc. William L. Edwards, 23 July 18, 2007 Cpl. Matthew R. Zindars, 21 Pfc. Jaron D. Holliday, 21 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Spc. Zachary R. Clouser, 19 2/1 Mar. Regt., 1st Mar. Div., 1st MEF 1/40 Cav., 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. Sgt. Scott L. Kirkpatrick, 26 1/26 Inf., 2nd Bde. 1st Inf. Div. Cpl. Jason K. Lafleur, 28 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Spc. Richard Gilmore III, 22 July 25, 2007 1/40 Cav., 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. Sgt. Andrew W. Lancaster, 23 1/26 Inf., 2nd Bde. 1st Inf. Div. Spc. Daniel A. Leckel, 19 Spc. Braden J. Long, 19 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Spc. Daniel E. Gomez, 21 1/28 Inf., 4th Bde., 1st Inf. Div. 1/40 Cav., 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. Spc. Justin O. Penrod, 24 1/26 Inf., 2nd Bde. 1st Inf. Div. Pfc. Matthew M. Murchison, 21 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Sgt. 1st Class Luis E. Gutierriz-Rosales, 38 July 26, 2007 720th MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Staff Sgt. William D. Scates, 31 1/26 Inf., 2nd Bde. 1st Inf. Div. Pvt. Michael A. Baloga, 21 Sgt. Dustin S. Wakeman, 25 1/30 Inf., 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. 6/9 Cav., 3rd Bde., 1st Cav. Div. 1/40 Cav., 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. July 19, 2007 Spc. Charles E. Bilbrey Jr., 21 August 13, 2007 Senior Aircraftsman Matthew Caulwell, 22 5/7 Cav., 1st Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. August 5, 2007 Staff Sgt. Eric D. Cottrell, 39 B Flight, No. 1 Squadron, RAF Regt. Sgt. William R. Howdeshell, 37 Spc. Justin R. Blackwell, 27 5/82 FA, 4th Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Sgt. Ronald L. Coffelt, 36 5/7 Cav., 1st Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. 759th MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Spc. Alun R. Howells, 20 503rd MP Bn., 16th MP Bde. Spc. Jaime Rodriguez Jr., 19 Pvt. Jeremy S. Bohannon, 18 1/64 AR, 2nd Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. Senior Aircraftsman Christopher Dunsmore, 24 5/7 Cav., 1st Bde., 3rd Inf. Div. 759th MP Bn., 89th MP Bde. Pfc. Juan M. Lopez Jr., 23 B Flight, No. 1 Squadron, RAF Regt. Spc. Charles E. Leonard Jr., 29 5/82 FA, 4th Bde., 1st Cav. Div. July 29, 2007 1/8 Cav., 2nd Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Pfc. Paulomarko U. Pacificador, 24 July 20, 2007 Pfc. Cody C. Grater, 20 Tech Sgt. Joey D. Link, 29 5/82 FA, 4th Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Cpl. Rhett A. Butler, 22 407th BSB, 2nd Bde., 82nd Airborne Div. 39th Airlift Squadron 2/1 Cav., 4th Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Staff Sgt. Wilberto Suliveras, 38 August 14, 2007 2/8 Cav., 1st Bde., 1st Cav. Div. August 6, 2007 Staff Sgt. Sean P. Fisher, 29 July 21, 2007 Cpl. Juan M. Alcantara, 22 1/52 Avn., TF 49 Lance Cpl. Timothy Darren Flowers, 25 July 30, 2007 1/23 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Pfc. Shawn D. Hensel, 20 The Corps of Electrical Mechanical Engineers Cpl. Jason M. Kessler, 29 Pvt. Craig Barber, 20 2/23 Inf., 4th Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Cpl. Christopher G. Scherer, 21 2/75 Ranger Regt. 2nd Bn., The Royal Welsh Ogmore Spc. Steven R. Jewell, 26 1st CEB, 1st Mar. Div., 1st MEF Cpl. Sean A. Stokes, 24 Sgt. Nicholas A. Gummersall, 23 1/52 Avn., TF 49 Sgt. Jacob S. Schumuecker, 27 3/1 Mar. Regt., 1st Mar. Div., 1st MEF 1/23 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Chief Warrant Officer Christopher C. Johnson, 31 755th Recon/Decon Co. Spc. Kareem R. Khan, 20 1/52 Avn., TF 49 July 31, 2007 1/23 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. Chief Warrant Officer Jackie L. McFarlane Jr., 30 July 22, 2007 Cpl. Steve Edwards, 35 Spc. Christopher T. Neiberger, 22 1/52 Avn., TF 49 Sgt. Shawn G. Adams, 21 Badger Sqd., 2nd Royal Tank Regt. Sutton 1/18 Inf., 2nd Bde., 1st Inf. Div. Staff Sgt. Stanley B. Reynolds, 37 3/509 PIR, 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. Spc. Zachariah J. Gonzalez, 23 Staff Sgt. Jacob M. Thompson, 26 1/52 Avn., TF 49 Lance Cpl. Bobby L. Twitty, 20 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. 1/23 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. CLB 6, CLR 2, 2nd MLG, 2nd MEF Pfc. Charles T. Heinlein Jr., 23 August 15, 2007 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. August 7, 2007 Sgt. Princess C. Samuels, 22 July 24, 2007 Pfc. Alfred H. Jairala, 29 Cpl. Reynold Armand, 21 HHT, 1st Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Sgt. Courtney D. Finch, 27 2/3 Inf., 3rd Bde., 2nd Inf. Div. 2nd AA Bn., 2nd Mar. Div., 2nd MEF Spc. Zandra T. Walker, 28 714th Maint. Co. Sgt. Stephen R. Maddies, 41 Leading Aircraftman Martin Beard 4/227 Avn., 1st Air Cav. Bde., 1st Cav. Div. Spc. Camy Florexil, 20 473rd Counter Rocket, Artillery and Mortar Plt. No. 1 Squadron, RAF Regt. 1/28 Inf., 4th Bde., 1st Inf. Div. Sgt. Bradley W. Marshall, 37 Sgt. Jon E. Bonnell Jr., 22 Lance Cpl. Robert A. Lynch, 20 2/377 PIR, 4th Bde., 25th Inf. Div. 1/11 Mar. Regt., 1st Mar. Div. 1/12 Mar Regt., 3rd Mar. Div., 3rd MEF Spc. Donald M. Young, 19 The Coalition Chronicle 29