October 07, 2009

www.dvidshub.net (search phrase: Expeditionary Times) Vol. 2 Issue 39 For the children

Soldiers deliver hearing aids, strengthen relation- ship with Iraqis Page 5

Gearing up Vice president visits Victory Page 12-13

Official White House photo by David Lienemann Vice President Joseph Biden talks to Sgt. 1st Class Gavin Bell, a Portland, Ore., native, in the Pegasus Dining Facility at the Joint Visitors Bureau Hotel PSD Soldiers perform on Camp Victory, Baghdad. Bell is the hotel’s noncommissioned officer in charge and a platoon sergeant with the Klamath Falls based C Troop, 1st Squadron, 82nd Cavalry, that provided security for the vice president and the White House Press Corps during motorcade operations in and around final training in Kuwait Victory Base Complex and the International Zone. Page 10 13th ESC signs $31 million Game time contract with Iraq St o r y a n d Ph o t o s b y "The new contract represents Sp c . Na v e e d Al i Sh a h a remarkable opportunity and Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f achievement in terms of sup- porting Multi-National Force- JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq Iraq's responsible drawdown re- –The 13th Sustain- quirements,” said Air Force Maj. ment Command Jack L. Nemcef, the commander (Expeditionary) of the regional contracting cen- and the Miran ter here. Village Com- The previous contract cov- pany, an Iraqi- ered the repair of 3,000 ship- owned and operated business, ping containers annually. signed a multi-million dollar Repairing used containers contract during a ceremony has proven cost-effective for Sept. 29, at the container repair Coalition forces because, at an yard here at Joint Base Balad, average cost of $5,000 for a Iraq. new container, the savings add The $31 million contract calls up to anywhere from $2,000 to for the repair of roughly 30,000 $4,000 per container, said Maj. Brig. Gen. Paul L. Wentz, commanding general of the 13th Sustainment Flag footbal season kicks shipping containers in the Brian Steele, the comptroller for Command (Expeditionary), Hashim Abdalmir Mhadi, owner of the Miran course of the next fiscal year, to the 13th ESC. Village Company, Air Force Maj. Jack L. Nemcef, commander of the re- off at JBB facilitate the responsible draw- MNF-I’s economic engage- gional contracting center here, and Air Force Col. David DiMartino, signed a historic $31 million contract that will provide valuable services to facili- down of U.S. forces and equip- ment strategy calls for Iraqi tate the responsible drawdown of forces in Iraq, while continuing efforts to Page 14 ment from Iraq. SEE DEAL ON PAGE 4 create jobs and invigorate the local economy. PAGE 2 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 Balad Blotter September 23 - September 29 Chaplain’s corner... By Lt. Co l . Wi l l i e Ai l s t o c k failures or even your victories, and focusing on the UNSECURED GOVERNMENT PROPERTY: 13t h ESC Ch a p l a i n past is preventing you from moving forward. I have A patrol received an M-16 rifle that was found at a suggestion for you; forget the past. Check out what the Green Bean Coffee House in the H-6 hous- o, let me ask you: what drives Paul, the apostle, suggested to Christians in his gen- ing area. The patrol arrived on the scene and your life? Are you driven by prin- eration in Philippians 3:13-14. acquired the rifle. The patrol transported the S ciples or are emotions in control of “Forgetting the past and looking forward to what property to the law enforcement desk for safe your life’s direction? lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and keeping. We need to have a sense of pur- receive the heavenly prize for which God, through pose to survive. If you really want to Christ Jesus, is calling us,” Paul wrote. UNSECURE PRIVATE PROPERTY: live, you must go beyond just having any purpose. Although this advice was given in the context of A complainant reported losing a black bag con- taining one white MacBook laptop, one Sony You need to seek how you make this world a better Christianity, the principle can apply to you even if PlayStation Portable, a copy of his military or- place. A clue to finding this is analyzing how others you are not a Christian. That principle is: have a ders, a cellular phone, and various USB cables at around feel and think about you. Are you bringing great and selfless reason for living. The past is gone. the East Base Exchange bus stop. The complain- joy and investing in the lives of those around you? Victory or failure, it does not matter. Choose today to ant boarded and rode the bus for approximately I hope so. have a great purpose and go out and do it. five minutes when he noticed his property was You only have one life, so I invite you to make the Have a great day filled with positive thinking and missing. The complainant then went back to the best of it. Perhaps you are thinking about your past a great purpose. bus stop and noticed the property was not at the bus stop. It only takes an instant UNSECURE PRIVATE PROPERTY: A complainant reported a larceny at the East Base By Ca p t . St e v e Br a s i n g t o n See “Joe” drink at the bar. Listen to Joe charm the Exchange parking lot. The complainant said af- Co m b a t St r e s s Co n t r o l Ps y c h i a t r i s t ladies. Watch Joe try to hook up. Later, our Joe fol- ter leaving the BX he returned to his vehicle and lows his object of romantic interest out of the bar and found that one iPod, one pair of ProSpecs glasses, ife can change in an instant. The enemy tried to into the night, looking for love. Shortly after, Joe utters one black bag and one U.S. Passport were miss- Leliminate you in the flash of an explosion, in the su- something akin to “come on baby, I know you want ing from his vehicle. The complainant also said personic flight of a bullet, or the flames of battle. You me.” Joe commits sexual assault. the vehicle was left unsecure. survived. You never quit and you defeated the enemy. In each case, the choice to drink excessively has elim- You stayed alive by remaining vigilant, by completing inated the Soldier from the fight. A sequence of poor UNSECURE PRIVATE PROPERTY: the mission, and by watching out for your battle buddy. decisions accomplished what the enemy never could. A complainant reported someone had taken one Look out for your battle in the rear, while off duty. Do you think drinking more than one or two servings Camelbak, one 32GB iPhone with case, one Play- Don’t leave a fallen comrade. If a Soldier has had too of alcohol will actually improve your decision making? Station Portable and four PlayStation Portable much to drink, stay with him or her. Can you tell the The evidence says no, it won’t. games, one 16GB micro SD chip, one pair of difference between alcohol poisoning and alcohol in- Soldiers will go home on leave to reunite with friends Ray-Ban sunglasses, one M-16 magazine holder, toxication? Ensure that you stay in control by remain- and spend time with family. Show them you are a pro- two M-9 magazine holder, one nametag and one ing sober and effective. Beware of Soldiers drinking as fessional, who understands you are always accountable Alaska state flag from outside the Dining Facility fast as they can or as much as they can. They are trying for maintaining the image of the United States Army 2 area. The complainant said he left the property to become the next casualty. Take action. You could and your unit. Some say, “This is what we do; we are prior to entering DFAC-2. When he returned to save a life or a career. Soldiers; we drink a lot, we like to get rowdy and have a the location, he found the property missing. Do more than take the keys. Escort the person to good time.” This is a sorry excuse for flagrant disregard safety. Seek medical attention if the individual is vom- of health and safety. SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY: iting or falling. A person can choke on his or her own Your chain of command wants you healthy and mis- A complainant reported an unknown third coun- vomit and die. Imagine letting a drunken Soldier fall sion ready. The call to report might come on a Sunday try national wearing a yellow shirt with blue asleep alone in a room. The Soldier chokes and never morning. Are you too hungover to answer the call? On jeans in the vicinity of H-5L for the past 5 days. wakes up. It only took an instant. Monday, after a weekend of excessive drinking, is your The complainant said the subject was observing Imagine an impaired driver gets behind the wheel. buddy moving a little slow? Do you joke with your bud- Coalition forces. In an instant, as the driver careens through an intersec- dy or make it clear that excessive use of alcohol is not tion crushing another vehicle, lives are changed forev- acceptable? Drunkenness is never a part of good order er. “Good time Charlie” has eliminated another human and discipline. Will you allow it to be part of you unit’s NIPR: 443-8602 SIPR: 241-1171 being, who very likely had a family or folks who were behavior off duty? Be courageous. Report unsafe be- Email: [email protected] waiting for the dead driver to come home. Guilt and re- havior to your noncommissioned officer. It only takes gret remain years after the fateful event. an instant. EXPEDITIONARY TIMES 13th ESC Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Paul L. Wentz Expeditionary Times is authorized for pub- 13th ESC G2, Security Manager 139th MPAD Production Editor Spc. Lisa A. Cope lication by the 13th Sustainment Command Lt. Col. Angelo Williams, 13th ESC Staff Sgt. Robert E. Fafoglia [email protected]. (Expeditionary). The contents of the Expedi- [email protected] [email protected] tionary Times are unofficial and are not to be Spc. Michael V. Camacho considered the official views of, or endorsed 13th ESC PAO, Managing Editor 139th MPAD Layout and Design [email protected] Maj. Raul Marquez, 13th ESC PAO Sgt. Jayson A. Hoffman by, the U.S. Government, including the Depart- [email protected] [email protected] ment of Defense or Operation Iraqi Freedom. Contributing Public Affairs Offices Expeditionary Times is a command informa- 13th ESC PA NCOIC 139th MPAD Photo Editor 10th Sustainment Brigade tion newspaper in accordance with Army Staff Sgt. Joel F. Gibson, 13th ESC Sgt. Keith VanKlompenberg 15th Sustainment Brigade Regulation 360-1 and reviewed by the ESC G2 [email protected] [email protected] 36th Sustainment Brigade for security purposes. 90th Sustainment Brigade Expeditionary Times is published weekly by 13th ESC Staff Writer 139th MPAD Copy Editor the Stars and Stripes central office, with a cir- Spc. Naveed Ali Shah, 13th ESC Spc. Brandy Oxford 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team culation of 5,000 papers. [email protected] [email protected] 155th Heavy Brigade Combat Team The Public Affairs Office is located on New 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing 139th MPAD Commander 139th MPAD Staff Writers 194th Engineer Brigade Jersey Ave. Building 7508, DSN 318-433-2154. Capt. Brad Sinkler Sgt. Ryan Twist Expeditionary Times, HHC 13th ESC, APO [email protected] [email protected] AE 09391. Web site at www.dvidshub.net For online publication visit: www.dvidshub.net 139th MPAD First Sergeant Spc. John Stimac keyword: Expeditionary Times Contact the Expeditionary Times staff at: 1st Sgt. Aangi Mueller [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Mission Statement: The Expeditionary Times Staff publishes a weekly newspaper with the primary mission of providing command information to all service members, partners, and Families of the 13th 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. October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 3 Sexual Assault The Weekly Standard Response Coordinator If someone you know has been sexually assaulted Dignity and respect DO NOT: -attempt to seek revenge. By Sg t . 1s t Cl a ss Ta m e r a G. Wy nn a) an apparent lack of concern for the well-being of -make jokes. 13t h ESC As s i s t a n t In s p ec t o r Ge n e r a l subordinates; -be angry with your friend. b) a personality or interpersonal technique that nega- -force them to talk and/or take control from never abused anyone who didn’t deserve it.” tively affects organizational climate; and them. “IAlthough a leader may believe this to be a true c) a conviction by subordinates that the leader is mo- -ask your friend how they could “let this hap statement, it falls short of the Army’s intent to treat tivated primarily by self-interest. pen.” Soldiers with dignity and respect. This article is an at- Such leaders are seen by the majority of their subordi- -assume you understand how your friend feels. tempt to avoid allegations against officials pertaining nates as arrogant, self-serving, inflexible and petty. -discuss the incident with others unless you to their failure to treat subordinates with dignity and “There are some hard-driving, high-achieving, have permission from your friend. respect as noted in Army Regulation 600-100, “Army compassionate leaders who understand the impor- If someone you know has been sexually assaulted Leadership.” In reality, leadership may be more easily tance of good climate still exist in the Army to belie DO: described than defined. In an article by Col.George E. the myth that rule by fear and intimidation is neces- -be supportive and listen to them. Reed, titled “Toxic Leadership,” he explored the con- sary,” Reed said. -communicate to your friend that he or she is cept of toxic leadership. He defines a toxic leadership not responsible for what happened. style as one characterized as self-aggrandizing, petty, Joint Base Balad: DSN 433-2125 -allow your friend to regain control by making abusive, indifferent to the unit climate and interper- Lt. Col. Reginald Howard (Command Inspector General) his or her own decisions. sonally malicious. Maj. Scott Peters (Deputy) Call the Joint Base Balad Sexual Assault Re- While there are no elements of proof to address a Master Sgt. Roy Thacker (NCOIC) sponse Coordinator at 443-7272 or contact via Soldier’s concern that his or her leader behaved ma- Sgt. 1st Class Danilo Egudin pager 443-9001, 159 for help. Army members Sgt. 1st Class Javier Cruz liciously, three sources should serve as the basis for should seek assistance with their Unit Victim Ad- development of the appropriate standard: 10 USC Q-West (16th SB): DSN 827-6115 vocate or Deployed SARC; you may also call 433- Lt. Col. Kyle Peterson 7272 or 443-9001, 122/135 for assistance. 3583, Requirement of Exemplary Conduct; the Joint Taji (10th SB/ 155 BCT):DSN 834-3079 Ethics Regulation, Department of Defense Direc- Lt. Col. Timothy Norton/ LTC Paul Bird tive 5500.7-R, paragraph 12-500; and AR 600-100, Adder/Tallil (287th SB/ 41 BCT): paragraph 2-1. In addition, Field Manual 6-22, Army DSN 833-1710 Interested in a movie? Leadership, serves as a good reference document. Lt. Col. Melanie Meier/ Maj. Jeffrey Copek In his article, Reed identified three key elements of Al Asad (321st SB): DSN 440-7049 Check the movie schedule on Page 20 toxic leadership syndrome: Sgt. 1st Class Tamera Wynn Your legal rights under the SCRA By 1s t Lt. Me l v i n Ra i n e s II Service members are entitled to a diced due to his service obligation and • Your military service affects Ch i e f , Leg a l As s i s t a n ce stay of proceedings or, in some cases, shows that he had legal defense to the your ability to pay the loan at the regu- 13t h ESC Ju d g e Av o c a t e Ge n e r a l a stay of the execution in the proceed- matter at hand. lar (pre-service) interest rate. Gener- ings. This applies if the person is in Finally, the SCRA affects statutes ally this requirement means that you he Servicemem- military service or is within 90 days af- of limitation. A service member’s time make less money in the military than Tber’s Civil Relief ter termination of or release from mil- in service cannot be used to compute you made as a civilian. There are some Act is a law with sig- itary service. This only applies to civil the time limits for bringing any action special legal issues here - you should nificant protections to cases – including family law matters; or proceeding by or against a service be ready to talk to your legal assistance service members and it does not apply to criminal cases. To member, whether in court or else- attorney about your entire financial their families. This ar- invoke this right, the service member where. However, this does not apply situation. ticle is intended to provide an over- should make a request, in writing, to to any period of limitation prescribed A service member who, prior to view of this law. Of course, if you have the court in which the action is pend- by or under the Internal Revenue Ser- entry into active duty, entered an in- further questions, you should make an ing. The request should state when the vice laws of the United States. stallment contract for the purchase of appointment to meet with a legal as- service member will be available to de- real or personal property (including a sistance attorney for free consultation fend the case and any other pertinent Installment contract protections and motor vehicle), is protected under the regarding your specific situation. information the court would need to the 6 percent interest rate cap: SCRA if the service member’s ability to The Servicemember’s Civil Relief support the request. Your commander Service members may also be en- make payments is materially affected Act (50 U.S.C. App. Sections 501–596) has the ability to send a letter on your titled to have the interest rate on some by his military service obligation: is a federal law that applies to any en- behalf. The Legal Assistance Office of their debts reduced to 6 percent for • The service member must tity in the United States and its terri- can assist with the preparation of such the time they are on active duty and/ have paid, prior to entry on to active tories. Most SCRA protections begin letters. or deployed. There are a number of duty, a deposit or installment under the day you receive your orders to ac- In addition, the SCRA prevents a special requirements. A service mem- the contract. tive duty or deployment. As a practical default judgment from being taken ber may be eligible if the following cri- • The seller is then prohibited matter, you should expect to present against a military member during pe- teria are met: from exercising any right or option a copy of those orders to whomever riods of mobilization or deployment. If • You took out the loan during a under the contract to rescind or termi- you ask for a right or benefit under the a default judgment is entered against time when you were not on any form nate the contract, to resume posses- SCRA. a military member, the judgment may of active duty in any branch of the mil- sion of the property for nonpayment be reopened if the member makes an itary. of any installment due, or to breach Service members’ rights in judicial application within 90 days after leav- • The interest rate is above 6 the terms of the contract, unless au- proceedings: ing active duty, shows he was preju- percent per year. thorized by a court. ON THE http://www.hood.army.mil/13sce/ WEB PAGE 4 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 CONTRACT: ‘represents a remarkable opportunity’ DEAL FROM PAGE 1 80th Ordnance Battalion, 90th Sustainment Brigade, businesses and industries to receive priority, and this 13th ESC. large-scale contract fulfills that requirement, said “The community surrounding JBB is largely a poor Nemcef, a Newport News, Va., native. farming community and this influx of money and jobs “The speed in which we were able to get this con- will allow for expansion and growth,” said Vivian. tract in place – in less than 30 days – represents a The contract faced challenges from its inception. truly joint, focused and well-coordinated effort," said “The biggest challenges were the constraints placed Nemcef. by the current timeline for withdrawal,” said Steele, a Hashim Abdalmir Mhadi, the owner of the Pittsfield, Mass., native. “We don’t have much time to Miran Village Company, said the occasion brings work with and we have more than 100,000 (Soldiers good prospects for the families of Iraq. and contractors) to move out of the country. “We have more than 80 families represented in our “In addition to the timeline, we also wanted to get work force, with each worker earning an average of this done within the fiscal year, so we had to work fast $700 U.S. a month,” said Mhadi. “We hope to have to beat the October 1st deadline,” he said. the same salary for more than 600 families in the near Despite the time and effort put into the project and Waed Raad Dawoud, an employee with the Miran future.” the work ahead, Mhadi said he is grateful the Iraqis Village Company, paints a shipping container Sept. Not only does the new contract provide jobs, but will have a chance to rebuild their country and rein- 24 at the Container Repair Yard here at Joint Base the Ministry of Labor certifies the laborers as carpen- vigorate their economy. Balad, Iraq. The container repair contract between ters and welders, which helps them get jobs elsewhere Mhadi said, “This is actually a great opportunity U.S. forces and the Miran Village Company, an Iraqi- after the contract expires, said Capt. Jason Vivian, for the families of Iraq to make a new, bright future owned and operated company was signed during a action officer for the container repair yard, with the for themselves.” ceremony at the container repair yard here Sept. 29. Sustainment brigades train, prepare for transition

St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y because they got flagged with Sp c . Jo h n St i m a c lasers.” Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f Nipitella, a Brooklyn, N.Y., native, said leadership is the CONTINGENCY OPERAT- key to success in training or ING LOCATION Q- conducting a mission. WEST, Iraq – As “Active leaders help engage- the 16th Sustain- ment,” said Nipitella. “You ment Brigade, have to be engaged, hands-on out of Bamberg, with your Soldiers.” Germany, pre- Spc. Thomas Winkfield, a pares to re-deploy, the mission PSD gunner with the 15th, said of the personal security detach- the training was very benefi- ment continues. cial. Members of the 16th PSD “With the training we re- are training the 15th Sustain- ceived, I feel very confident,” ment Brigade PSD, out of Fort said Winkfield. “Practice Hood, Texas, to take the reins makes perfect; the more drills and prepare them for their first we do, the more proficient we mission. will become.” Staff Sgt. Michael Shaw, a Winkfield, a Woodland, Ca- PSD team member with the lif., native, said the 16th gave 16th Sustainment Brigade, his unit a lot of tips. and a Kennelon, N.J., native, “They have given us un- said the 16th PSD is teaching limited access to training and the 15th PSD everything from whatever resources they have battlefield drills with Mine- to make sure we complete our Resistant Ambush-Protected mission,” said Winkfield. vehicles, to maintenance on Shaw said he wishes noth- those vehicles. ing but success for the 15th “The main thing is, we don’t Sust. Bde., and that all Soldiers want them to be afraid to ask come home safely. questions,” said Shaw. “Wheth- Pfc. Todd Whelehan, personal security detachment team members with the 15th Sustainment Brigade, and “They received a lot of train- er you’ve been deployed before Palm Bay, Fla., native, fills in Sgt. Kenneth Hagstrom, a San Bernadino, Calif., native about the maintenance ing but, no matter how much or not, the person next to you the team is performing on the Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected vehicle. The 15th PSD team will conduct training they get, there are no may be thinking the same thing their first mission soon. experiences like real-world ex- but is afraid to ask.” communications and weapons the new policies into its train- the cities,” said Shaw. perience,” said Shaw. The team has conducted training to include crew served ing for the Soldiers of the 15th Sgt. Nicholas Nipitella, a Nipitella said most of his training for more than a week and individual weapons,” said Sust. Bde. PSD. PSD team member with the knowledge gained during the on various scenarios and drills Shaw. “The escorts and the mis- 16th Sust. Bde., said the units deployment came primarily that will help the new PSD Shaw said the Iraqi secu- sions are a little different now; also focused on safety in their from experience. adapt and be proficient in their rity agreement that took ef- we now have the signs posted in training. “We gave them the founda- mission. fect Jan. 1 has made it possible Arabic on the side of the MRAP “This has been a big thing tion of what they need to do,” “We’ve went over all the for service members to travel that state the applicable part of lately,” said Nipitella. “There said Nipitella. “Now they need battlefield drills, vehicle in- more safely through cities. The the security agreement which have been cases of Soldiers to be active and engage in the juries, vehicle recovery, radio 16th Sust. Bde. incorporated enables us to travel through recently losing their eyesight training they received.”

On the Web 10th Sustainment Brigade, Camp Taji http://www.taskforcemuleskinner.army.mil/mm.asp October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 5 Soldiers deliver hearing aids, strengthen partnership with Iraqis

St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y Amal and the Muthanna PRT, Lt. Col. Ca p t . Sa r a S. Le a k e y Richard Allan White, an audiologist 41s t IBCT for the 287th, taught Al Amal teach- ers how to use an audiometer and con- AR RUMAIYTHA, Iraq – Soldiers from ducted numerous audiometer tests to the 41st Infantry Brigade identify children who would benefit Combat Team partnered from the use of the donated hearing with the Muthanna Pro- aids. vincial Reconstruction Hadi said donating hearing aids to Team and the 287th the school, instead of directly to the Sustainment Brigade children, was essential. Sept. 14 to assist in “We support education,” Hadi said. the delivery of 80 hearing aids and “When we donate to the school, this other much-needed supplies to The Al will stimulate the (Iraqi parents) and Amal Deaf Institute in Ar Rumaiytha, encourage them to send their kids to Iraq. the school.” Al Amal, a two-room school house Kelli Cook, the public diplomacy of- and primary education facility to more ficer for the Muthanna PRT, explained than 40 girls, was identified by the how these hearing aids will support Muthanna PRT in 2008 as a facility more children through the school than in need of support and resources. The A student at the Al Amal Deaf Institute takes a break Sept. 14. The school re- they would through individual stu- school has a staff of six teachers, with ceived 80 hearing aids, two flat-screen televisions with DVD players, school sup- dents. education responsibilities for children plies, toys and a generator from the 287th Sustainment Brigade, Provincial Re- “The lifespan of these 80 hearing from elementary school through high construction Team, Muthanna, and the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team. The aids could benefit a thousand stu- school – each with varying degrees of delivery of these items is a culmination of a 10-month long project to improve dents,” Cook said. “This small project deafness. the partnership between U.S. forces and the people of Iraq. is going to sustain the school for gen- Albert Hadi, the media adviser for erations.” the Muthanna PRT, credits the identi- tive officer and civil military officer in An audiometer, small generator Hadi said the plan is working – en- fication of the school and initiation of charge of 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infan- and two flat-screen TVs were donated rollment has increased more than 35 the project to former Muthanna PRT try Regiment, who provided security. in addition to the 80 hearing aids. The percent, with several weeks still left public diplomacy officer, Aaron D. The mission came just in time for Lt. children also eagerly accepted toys and before school starts this fall. Snipe. Col. Clinton R. Moyer, the civil military candy provided by the 41st IBCT. Spc. Anita Vandermolen, a photo “Aaron thought to reach out to some- officer for the 287th Sust. Bde. This “It was a great opportunity for the journalist for the 41st IBCT and a ci- where no one’s ever been before—no mission was the culmination of a de- U.S. military and the PRT civilians to vilian educational sign language inter- Iraqis or other agencies,” Hadi said. ployment full of relationship building work together with the local Iraqis to preter, said this program has the po- Since the identification of Al Amal, and hard work, as his unit prepared to effect some real change at a very tangi- tential to change the girls’ lives. the Muthanna PRT has partnered pri- redeploy this month. ble, grassroots level, with a population “Adding sound and awareness of marily with the 287th Sust. Bde. and “It’s been a long process and it took that is really important — the children the girls’ surroundings can only ben- Iraqi Security Forces to assist the us 10 months to deliver,” Moyer said. of this province,” said John M. Kusch- efit their lives,” she said. “The hearing school. “Without any one of them, “We try not to promise anything, but ner, the team leader for the Muthanna aids and all the work that has gone into the mission would not be possible,” this was something we said we would PRT. getting them to the students is truly a said Maj. Sean T. McGann, the execu- do and wanted to do.” In his 10 months working with Al blessing.” Making history in Iraq St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y Sp c . Li s a A. Co p e is stored, and, at the end of the tour, the information Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f will be given to the 13th ESC for their records and the Center of Military History at Ft. McNair, Washington JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – History is being made – where all history detachments submit their findings. every day in Iraq and the members of the This will then be permanently archived as part of the 45th Military History Detachment out of official Army record, said Logan. Ft. Gillem, Ga., are at Joint Base Balad, “The information we collect is not for quick turn- Iraq, to record it. around purposes; it’s for long-term history books to be Lt. Col. Steven L. Logan, command- written years down the road,” said Logan. er of the 45th MHD, coordinates the Lt. Col. Peter M. Haas, commander of the 49th three-Soldier unit’s mission to cover all of the units un- Transportation Battalion out of Ft. Hood, Texas, was der the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) interviewed by the 45th MHD Sept. 21. Haas said the throughout Iraq. 45th interviewed roughly 12 of the 72 Soldiers who “The 45th Military History Detachment is covering work in the 49th Trans. Bn. Headquarters and Head- the 13th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and all Lt. Col. Steven L. Logan, commander of the 45th Mili- quarters Company. of its subordinate units,” said Logan, a Lexington, Ky., tary History Detachment, interviews U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. He was asked a variety of questions about his back- native. “Specifically, we are covering the coordination, Dustin A. Demorest, the 13th Sustainment Command (Ex- ground information, pre-deployment training, and synchronization and execution of the largest strategic peditionary) electronic warfare special projects officer, challenges the unit faces in theater and in the rear de- re-posturing of forces and equipment in the last forty Sept. 25 at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. tachment, he said. years.” “It was more a documentary interview than it was a The detachment interviews a number of Soldiers get a better idea of how the unit works on all levels, he news interview,” said Haas. proportional to the size of each unit, said Logan. The said. “We’re capturing the achievements and success of 45th attempts to find a diverse selection, in order to The information collected from these interviews every Soldier,” said Logan PAGE 6 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 Teamwork helps bring water to Q-West St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y Ca p t . Mu r r a y Sh u g a r s 2/198t h CAB CONTINGENCY OPERATING LOCA- TION Q-WEST, Iraq – Efforts to end the water shortage at Contingency Operating Location Q- West, spearheaded by Mississippi Guards- men and civilian contractors, have begun to show re- sults. The Mayor Cell’s Water Operations Team, 2nd Battalion, 198th Combined The lift station (far right) and cistern (middle) of the Al-Qayyarah pump house (far left) that supplies raw water to Al-Qayyarah and Arms, out of Senatobia, Miss., and ci- to Contingency Operating Location Q-West, Iraq. An exceptionally dry summer, coupled with years of drought, caused a water shortage at Q-West. vilian contractors collaborated success- fully since July to increase raw water periodically to divert water to various Louisville, Ky., native who manages “When I first got here, I had no delivery. unauthorized taps. During this mission, support missions off Q-West. “First experience with plumbing and water A dry summer, coupled with years of the water team and contractors also cut thing I noticed was them agreeing to treatment,” Pettis said. drought, caused a water shortage at Q- a number of unauthorized taps. a seven-day pump house mission for Both Soldiers also acknowledge the West. A fourth effort provided greater su- maintenance and evaluation. In five importance of building and sustaining To save water, the swimming pool pervision and training of Iraqi workers years here, I have never seen a pump good relations with local Iraqis. was closed, water consumption by all at the pump house. A five-day pump house mission longer than three days. “It’s great to get to know the locals,” residents and vendors was limited, house mission was fundamental to this As a result of that mission and follow- said Haycraft. “The farmer who owns non-essential shower units were closed effort. Moreover, the water team imple- on missions, the pump house has run the pump house property brings us chai and residents were restricted to three- mented standard operating procedures more consistently.” tea, flat bread and sometimes lamb. He minute combat showers. These conser- for maintenance and daily operational Buddy B. Winborn, facilities supervi- brings the tea in an old, battered pot, vation measures will continue, but the duties of the pump house technicians, sor and an Alma, Ark., native, said he and I’m having my wife send a new pot water situation improves daily, said Lt. translating these into Arabic documents likes working with Guardsmen. to give him.” Col. William B. Smith, Jr., 2/198th CAB and using an interpreter to ensure un- “The average (National) Guard Sol- Although the water operations team commander and a Hattiesburg, Miss., derstanding. dier has a good amount of civilian work and contractors lead the pump house native. On a fifth mission, the water team and business experience,” Winborn and pipeline operations, they receive “The key to sustaining (COL) Q-West and contractors installed temporary air said. “Those are important qualities outside support. Foremost among these is our ability to pump water from the vents to relieve air pressure in the line during sustainment operations.” is A Company, 2/198th CAB out of Her- Tigris River,” said Smith. “This is the and allow water to flow with less resis- Hatcher said he is proud of the two nando, Miss., the COL Q-West force most important Mayor Cell operation. tance up the long climb, from the river water team noncommissioned offi- protection company. A Co. provided The Q-West water team, comprised of to Q-West. cers’ work, and accredited much of the security for every mission. However, military and contractor personnel led A sixth effort employed the assets team’s success to them. Neither of the other participants deserve recognition by Capt. James “J.J.” Hatcher, Jr., has and assistance of the 395th Combat Sus- NCOs had civilian or military training as well, said Hatcher. done an outstanding job of aggressively tainment Support Battalion to install a for this kind of mission, but learned on In addition to the TWDS pump, the attacking the water shortage, pursuing tactical water distribution system pump the job, said Hatcher. 395th CSSB, Army Reserve from New numerous courses of action.” roughly a mile from the base, where the “I love doing this mission, but it Haven, Conn., supplied fuel trucks The operation began with two, si- terrain levels in its climb from the Ti- has turned out to involve a whole lot and heavy equipment hauling assets. multaneous seven-day missions oper- gris River. more than I expected,” said Sgt. James The 1174th Transportation Company, ating from the pump house. One was “All these missions, along with recent C. Haycraft, water team noncommis- Tennessee Army National Guard from a maintenance and repair mission on rains, have combined to increase wa- sioned officer-in-charge of off-base Memphis, provided heavy equipment the pump house and Tigris River lift- ter flow ten-fold in recent weeks,” said missions, and a Brandon, Miss., na- transportation vehicles and drivers, and pumps. The other was a pipeline recon- Hatcher, the officer in charge of water tive. “It’s more labor-intensive, and I’ve the 506th Quartermaster Company, out naissance mission aimed at cataloging operations and a Clarksville, Tenn., na- learned a lot about plumbing. The wa- of Ft. Lee, Va., also supported the mis- valve boxes and unauthorized taps of tive. ter team doesn’t just oversee the civil- sion down range, said Capt. Jay G. Sul- three or more inches. This detailed map The Mississippians deserve credit for ian contractors. We roll up our sleeves livan, support operations officer with assisted Smith, the COL mayor, with their efforts to bring water to Q-West, and help turn wrenches. This is truly a the 395th CSSB, from Winsted, Conn. planning future missions. the civilian employees said. group effort.” “This has been a team effort all the A third mission involved the water “I am very impressed with the strong Sgt. Eric S. Pettis, NCOIC for on-base way,” said Hatcher. “No single group or team and contractors pulling valve gates commitment of the 2/198th CAB in at- water operations, and an Oxford, Miss., mission can take credit for improving to prevent local Iraqis from illegally tacking the water problem,” said Mark native, said he learned from the work- the water situation. Even the weather closing the pipeline, which occurred Crow, a civil general foreman and a ers and from hands-on experience. played a helpful role.” 1. Power strips are free of 4. Smoke detector is debris and clothing. Check operational.

2. Electrical devices not in use CHUsdays 5. Fire extinguisher is are unplugged. serviceable (in the green) Each Tuesday Check The Following 3. Power strips and outlets are in Your CHU 6. Room is neat and orderly not overloaded. October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 7 Iraq bazaar brings culture to Soldiers St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y erating locations, it is harder to Spc . Jo h n St i m a c have these kinds of events here Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f more often,” said Legere. Herd said the souq takes CONTINGENCY OPERATING roughly two weeks to plan. LOCATION- Q- “This is a coordinated effort West, Iraq – between all units on post,” said Sept. 26 a souq Herd. “We have to supply med- bazaar at Q- ical support, security, mainte- West, gave nance and vendor relations Soldiers an and event promotion. There opportunity are a lot of things to consider to buy souvenirs of Iraq from when we plan these types of Iraqis escorted on post for the events.” event. Herd said members of the Maj. John B. Herd, Mayor finance team also assist, by Cell officer in charge of Morale, converting U.S. dollars into Welfare and Recreation, with Iraqi dinars. the 2nd Battalion, 198th Com- “The preferred method is to bined Arms, said the rough pay with the dinar, however, translation for souq is Iraqi many of the vendors will take marketplace. dollars to accommodate the “This is an event for the Sol- Soldiers who buy items that do diers to buy some authentic not cost as much,” said Herd. Iraqi items and interact closely Salih Wasmy, the head ven- with the Iraqi vendors,” said dor at the souq who also owns Sgt. Carlos Rivera, with the 1174th Transportation Company out of Memphis, Tenn., and a Loretto, Tenn., Herd. SW Supply, an IBIZ and Army native, looks at some items for sale at the souq bazaar on Contingency Operating Location, Q-West, Items on sale ranged from and Air Force Exchange Ser- Iraq. Rivera said he looks for items he cannot get in the states. traditional Iraqi garb to car- vice-supported vendor, said he pets and rugs. enjoys the monthly bazaar. brought his camel along for the tunity to bring local nationals he likes working with the Sol- Capt. Allen Legere, officer in “I have about 12 guys who day. on post and establish working diers. charge of retail and the Iraq- come to work with me,” said “I brought the camel with relationships with them. “Working here has greatly Based Industrial Zone, with the Wasmy. “Many of them are my so the Soldiers can take free “That is what it is all about, helped me and my family,” 16th Sustainment Brigade, said family and we are here every pictures with it; they seemed promoting communications said Wasmy. “Everybody in my the souq is held monthly. month to sell Arabic goods to to enjoy it last time so I made with the members of the outly- family looks forward to coming “Since the villages are a little the Americans.” sure I brought him back this ing villages,” he said. here once a month and working farther away from post, as op- Wasmy, who resides in Qe- time,” said Wasmy. Wasmy, who has worked here and talking with the Sol- posed to other contingency op- yara, a village near Q-West, Herd said this was an oppor- in the area for five years, said diers.” Tough ‘Ombres uncase for first time since WWII By Sg t . Ch a r l e s Di x o n Beach, Normandy. The remainder en- concentration camp. Today, a memo- “The legacy of the 90th and our 90t h Su s t . Bd e . tered combat June 10, cutting across rial wall at the former camp honors the Army will largely be determined by the Merderet River to take Pont l'Abbe 90th as the liberators of Flossenbürg the successful execution of responsible JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – The story in heavy fighting. concentration camp. withdrawal and with the success of the of the 90th Sustainment Aug.12, the division drove across Sept. 15, 2009, the 90th, under the Iraqi Security Forces and sovereign Brigade can be traced the Sarthe River, north and east of Le new designation of sustainment bri- government of Iraq,” Spry said. back to 1917, when it Mans, and took part in the closing of gade, but proudly bearing the patch, Just like the 304th, the 90th will were activated as the the Falaise Gap. colors and history of the decorated operate a large-scale support hub, with 90th Infantry Divi- The 90th then raced across France, World War II infantry division, em- several subordinate units to fulfill lo- sion and mobilized a through Verdun to participate in the barked on an entirely new mission— gistical and maintenance needs, and year later to face the siege of Metz, capturing Maizières-lès- assisting the 13th Sustainment Com- conduct a training program integrated Germans during World War I. Upon Metz and crossing the Moselle River at mand (Expeditionary) with the largest with the Iraqi Security Force. their return from the war in 1919, the Kœnigsmacker. reposturing of American forces in 40 Spry spoke with his “Tough ‘Om- 90th ID was inactivated. In December 1944, the division par- years, and a transition of authority to bres” and laid out what he expected After the Japanese attack on Pearl ticipated in the Battle of the Bulge. Iraqi Security Forces. from them, “Our mission will be ever- Harbor propelled the United States to In February, the division smashed Col. Gary Spry, the commander of changing, so it is imperative that our commit its forces during World War II, through Siegfried Line fortifications to the 90th, uncased the unit's colors in Soldiers remain flexible, but also com- the 90th ID’s skills became too valu- the Prüm River. a combat zone for the first time since mitted to mission accomplishment.” able to be shelved. The unit was acti- After a short rest, the 90th contin- Maj. Gen. Herbert L. Earnest cased Editor’s note: The history of the vated once again March 25, 1942, to ued across the Moselle River to take them in Europe in 1945. 90th Infantry Division, now the 90th fight the enemies of the United States Mainz, March 22, 1945, and crossed The transfer of authority ceremony Sustainment Brigade, in this article and aid the Allies in the European the- the rivers Rhine, Main and Werra in at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation came from “The Army Almanac: A ater. rapid succession. east building here marked the end of Book of Facts Concerning the Army of The first elements of the division The division was en route to Prague the 304th Sustainment Brigade's mis- the United States,” from the U.S. Gov- saw action on D-Day, June 6, on Utah when they came upon the Flossenbürg sion and the beginning of the 90th's. ernment Printing Office, 1950. TELL YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS HOW MUCH YOU MISS THEM

E-mail: [email protected] PAGE 8 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 Two Soldiers revamp old education center By Sg t . Da l e n e Ma r s h ian contractor, Chaparro and Vaughn 515t h CSSB were able to open the Seis Knowledge Center, Vaughn said. CONTINGENCY OPERATING LOCA- The two Soldiers are working to TION MAREZ, Iraq - The obtain additional internal computer 515th Combat Sustain- memory, which would increase the ment Support Battalion computers’ capabilities and expand maintains a knowledge the center’s capacity, said Vaughn. center which provides Their goal is to have 12 units avail- a place where Soldiers able for Soldiers to use within roughly can go to improve in their military and a month, for everything from online civilian professions. college courses to military correspon- When 1st Lt. Mario Chaparro, the dence courses, Chaparro said. officer in charge of the S-6 commu- “It feels good to be able to give nications section, and Chief Warrant Soldiers an opportunity to excel and Officer 2 David Vaughn, the S-6 in- to improve themselves, whether it is formation assurance manager, settled in their military field or their civil- into Mosul, Iraq, they realized Sol- ian profession,” Chaparro said. “The diers had no place to go to remain up- Center will also help Soldiers who are to-date in their civilian career field, currently unemployed. By using the Vaughn said. center they can acquire skills so that Chaparro and Vaughn pooled their they can find a job when they get back talents to create the Seis Knowledge home.” Courtesy photo Center, Vaughn said. Available tests include the Gradu- Built on the foundation of the Staff First Lt. Mario Chaparro, the officer in charge of the S-6 communications section, ate Records Examination, Graduate Sgt. Powell Education Center, the Seis and Chief Warrant Officer 2 David Vaughn, the S-6 information assurance manager, Management Admission Test, Cisco Knowledge Center will provide a place both with the 515th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, converted the Staff Sgt. tests and Microsoft tests. The center is for Soldiers to maintain their exist- Powell Education Center into the Seis Knowledge Center at Contingency Operating open on Tuesday and Thursday by ap- Location Marez, Iraq, to allow Soldiers to remain up to date in their career fields. ing skills, stay up to date on changes pointment, and is located behind the in their career fields and further their 158th Service Maintenance Company educations, Chaparro said. it’s good for the 515th. “ with limited capabilities, said Chap- maintenance bay. “It is hard being away from home Upon arrival at Marez, they im- arro. “It makes me feel good knowing that and trying to keep up with the compe- mediately realized the center was not Vaughn said they reached out to this center will produce future subject tition in their work place,” Chaparro sufficient to meet the Soldier’s needs, the Base Defense Operations Center, matter experts and possibly potential said. “Now there is a place where they he said. They rolled up their sleeves which contributed unused desk top warrant officers,” says Vaughn. “The can test and take classes to keep up. and started working. As they worked, computers it had in storage. The com- center will be the only one at (COL) That makes better Soldiers and better Chaparro and Vaughn found the avail- puters were immediately put to use and Marez and it will be available to every- civilians. It’s good for the military and able equipment was old and outdated, with the help of Joe Tomsone, a civil- one on the (COL).” US, Iraqi Transportation Network working on drawdown

St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y Spc . Mi c h a e l V. Ca m a c h o ion, Commercial Movement Division. The network is composed of tribes throughout Iraq, Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f In roughly the last three months, the 858th Move- said Ariaza. The ITN business incentive helps the tribes ment Control Team and the ITN have coordinated, peacefully interact with each other, to work together JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – As U.S. military assets are increasing the capabilities of the ground movement instead of fighting, he said. consolidated throughout Iraq, Iraqi nation- portion of their mission of transporting military assets, “They’re being led by somebody in their own com- al trucking companies have joined in the said Pfc. Brian Johnides, a transportation manager munity and not an outsider,” said Ariaza. transportation effort – experiencing safer with the 858th MCT and a Grosse Woods Point, Mich., The company employs 16 subcontractors, Ariaza travels than their U.S. counterparts. native. said. When the military sends work or transportation The Iraqi Transportation Network “The Iraqi Transportation Network incorporates movement requests to the ITN, a travel adviser speaks is an Iraqi civilian-operated, com- ground, rail and sea movement types,” said Johnides. with local shaykhs to coordinate which subcontractor mercial organization that regularly conducts missions Upon the ITN’s arrival at their destination, they go gets the job, he said. supporting the drawdown of personnel and equipment through strict security inspections of their identifica- Local nationals view ITN drivers differently than throughout the country, said Capt. Scott Poznansky, tion credentials, vehicles and cargo, including checks military personnel, he said. Although ITN convoys do operations officer with the 49th Transportation Battal- for contraband, said Pfc. Joseph Holland, an ITN secu- not travel with security teams, they have had no hostile rity escort with the 699th Maintenance Company and incidents in the time they have operated, said Ariaza. a Columbus, Ohio, native. Entry control point person- The ITN is a means of getting the Iraqis to work to nel then search the drivers and allow them on base, he better their country and offers secure areas of trans- said. portation, said Ariaza. The trucks are then escorted by Soldiers of the 699th “Everything is logistical,” Johnides said. “It needs to Maint. Co. and taken to the central receiving and ship- go from point A to point B. If you don’t have an efficient ping point, where they upload or download their cargo, or organized way of doing it, you have no shipping in- said Holland. frastructure.” The ITN has operated in Iraq for roughly a year and This infrastructure will be important as U.S. forces a half and continues to develop, said John Ariaza, an leave Iraq, he said. ITN liaison and a Brooklyn, N.Y., native. “The idea is to set up the economy for success, to The idea was started in al-Anbar province, said Ari- provide and leave behind a middle class,” said Ariaza. aza. As it showed potential for growth, it expanded to ITN offers jobs and helps its workers provide for the central, southern and eastern regions, he said. their communities while setting positive examples, Ariaza said. Spc. Edwin Ronquillo, an Iraqi Transportation Network “It’s more of a strategic partnership that the military security escort with the 699th Maintenance Company has with ITN – not only to support the 13th ESC and and a San Pedro, Calif., native, stands by as an Iraqi flat its subordinate units (as they) move things across the bed is loaded for an ITN convoy at the central receiving country, but also to help Iraq build an infrastructure,” and shipping point Sept. 30 at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. said Poznansky. October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 9 ‘One suicide is too many’ Providers discuss suicide prevention By Spc . Mi c h a e l V. Ca m a c h o well because they talk to each Soldiers we all have responsi- Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f other about the things that are bilities. Take a shower, shave, important to them,” he said. put on a clean uniform. We are JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – When a Soldier commits also responsible to keep our September is Na- suicide, it impacts the unit, the minds and ourselves in tip top tional Suicide Pre- Army family and the military working condition. It is OK to vention Awareness community as a whole, said get help. It is OK to seek assis- Month, but this Ailstock. tance from somebody that can subject is one It is vital for Soldiers to help.” providers must look out for one another and If he has suicidal thoughts, keep in their minds all year. provide support when a fellow that does not mean he is crazy, “Suicide is a permanent so- Soldier displays symptoms of said Cardona. These thoughts lution for a temporary prob- depression. Decreased work can be caused by emotion, lem,” said Maj. Saul Cardona, productivity, mood swings and stress or a chemical imbalance, 13th Sustainment Command emotional extremes are some he said. (Expeditionary) family-life of the warning signs, he said. If the person asks for help, chaplain and an Añasco, P.R., Problems from home, a they can and will receive it native. “We all have a respon- death in the family and “Dear through the resources avail- sibility and play a role in (sui- John” letters can be sources of able, he said. cide prevention). It is impor- major stress that lead to feel- “The Army has established tant to understand, recognize ings of despair and suicidal people in key positions to help the symptoms and to act if we thoughts, he said. those who are in need,” said need to for the sake of a fellow “Every Soldier needs to re- Cardona. Soldier.” alize that they are a part of sui- Soldiers can go through Lt. Col. Willie Ailstock, the cide prevention,” said Ailstock. their chain of command, the deputy command chaplain of “When you see a Soldier who chaplain or behavioral health 13th ESC, said only human is struggling and it is evident for support channels. relationships can save human they are having problems, then Oftentimes, Soldiers carry lives. you need to ask them. Do not the burden of overwhelming People who commit suicide assume somebody else will do stress and need an outlet – sometimes believe no one cares it. Take the initiative to care for someone to speak to in con- about them and life is hopeless, them, and when they say ‘yeah fidence, to help them work said Ailstock, a Dry Ridge, Ky., I do need help,’ escort them through their issues and find native. to the people that can help peace, Ailstock said. It is the bonds with battle them.” “We put on the uniform and buddies, coworkers and the Cardona said a stigma exists we go on fighting wars, but we chain of command that cre- when it comes to Soldiers ad- are still human and part of our ates an Army family, the base mitting they need help. human condition is at times we of their positive emotional “For many, many years, we need help,” Cardona said. “We support system during deploy- were led to believe that it was only have one Army; we need ment, said Ailstock. a sign of weakness when in fact to strengthen the people that “Battle buddy to battle bud- it is not. It is a sign of respon- we have in the system. One sui- dy, they know each other very sibility,” Cardona said. “As cide is too many.”

Telling the Sustainer Story from all across Iraq Tune In To

Now airing on the Or log on to Pentagon Channel www.dvidshub.net every Thursday at 0830 IZ keyword: Balad and Beyond every Saturday at 1430 IZ PAGE 10 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 PSD Soldiers perform final training in Kuwait St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y second day included live-fire exercises Sg t . Ma t t h e w C. Co o l e y without vehicles. 15t h Su s t a i n m e n t Br i g a d e By day three, the PSD had moved on Pu b l i c Af f a i r s to live-fire exercises with vehicles. Day four was not originally on the CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – An explo- schedule, but leadership decided to con- sion halted the four-vehicle convoy of tinue training while they still had the op- armored Humvees, as they made their portunity to use Buehring’s resources. way through the small village. Scenarios included getting the prin- Thick clouds of white and green cipal back into a vehicle after coming smoke enveloped the Soldiers as they under fire while on foot, moving the poured out of the trucks onto the sandy principal from a damaged vehicle into a desert road. They took cover behind working one, and clearing and using an their vehicles and returned fire, provid- available building as a safe house. ing cover to a team of Soldiers clearing Clothed target dummies lined the a nearby house. streets of the mock village and Soldiers This was not a real roadside bomb, had to make split-second decisions as nor were the Soldiers hardened infan- to who was friend or foe. Explosive ef- trymen. fects, smoke grenades and moving tar- These were the 15th Sustainment gets were all used to make the training Brigade “Wagonmasters” – firefighters, as realistic as possible. cooks, mechanics, and myriad other oc- A team of 15th Sustainment Brigade Personal Security Detachment Soldiers “They should be proud of how far cupations – forming the unit’s personal rush to clear a building for use as a safe house during a training exercise they’ve come,” said Lt. Col. Paula Lodi, security detachment. Sept. 18 at Camp Buehring, Kuwait. the 15th Sust. Bde. commander. The PSD’s four-day training exer- She said these Soldiers set themselves cise culminated with live-fire scenarios toon sergeant, with Headquarters and commander, called the “principal.” The apart with their desire to be there, even Sept. 18 at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Headquarters Company, 15th Special platoon’s training in Kuwait was over- though they all came from different oc- testing their ability to deal with combat Troops Battalion, 15th Sustainment seen by civilian contractors, many of cupational specialties. situations, both in vehicles and on the Brigade. Gimble, a Washington native, whom are former special operations Gimble said they had developed well ground. said he appreciates being pushed hard Soldiers. into a team. “We accomplish our mission so boss- in his work. The first day consisted of classroom “This is probably the best group of man can get where he’s going,” said The PSD’s mission is to safely pro- training and dry rehearsals, preparing Soldiers I’ve ever worked with,” she Staff Sgt. Stuart Gimble, the PSD pla- tect key leaders, such as the brigade’s the Soldiers for live-fire exercises. The said. US, Iraqi Army works to improve IA maintenance St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y cern that the IAMP inventory numbers were inac- going an exchange of their own. The LTAT of the Sg t . Ke i t h S. Va n Kl o mp e n b e r g curate. 699th Maintenance Company, which trains the IA Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f Coleman said the IA Soldiers need to take a big- maintenance units at the Kirkush Military Training ger role in using the IAMP, which is currently being Base, is about to transfer authority to the LTAT of CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Soldiers from the U.S. Army used mostly by civilian contractors whose contract the 90th Sust. Bde. met with officers in the Iraqi Army to is scheduled to end later this year. Catlin’s Soldiers will take over the maintenance discuss the progress made at the IA “What we want to do is fix it for tomorrow,” said training of the Iraqi Army, in support of a respon- maintenance sites, Sept. 30 at Camp Coleman. “When the contractors leave, it will be the sible drawdown of troops from the country this fall, Taji, Iraq. responsibility of the Iraqi Army. he said. In the last several months the “This is just the first step toward automated man- “When you do a relay, the handoff is the most maintenance sites, called medi- agement for maintenance,” he said. “The real goal is important part,” said Catlin. um workshops, transitioned from to make sure the computer information is accurate Catlin also said getting the different IA work- handwritten work orders and inventory logs to a after the meeting.” shops to sit down together and talk was a big step new computerized database called the Iraqi Army As the IA prepares to take the reins from civil- forward. Maintenance Program. ian contractors, their U.S. Army trainers are under- “We know we have some cultural disparities,” At the meeting, Lt. Col. Brian Coleman, adviser he said, “but the end result is getting their officers, to the IA’s director of electrical and mechanical en- (noncommissioned officers) and Soldiers to know gineering program and a Fitchburg, Mass., native, their job.” presented statistics from each workshops IAMP da- Coleman said they are planning to have these tabase and discussed how the system will help the meetings every 90 days to ensure progress is workshops work together to get what they need. made. “This partnership is not only between the IA and “You can see there has been some improvement,” the U.S. Army, but between the IA themselves,” said he said. “It’s only going to get better from here.” Maj. Robert Catlin, program manager for the Logis- Lt. Col. Brian Coleman, adviser to the Iraqi Army’s tics Training and Advising Team with the 90th Sus- director of electrical and mechanical engineering tainment Brigade, and a Nashville, Tenn., native. program, takes questions from officers in the IA Each workshop site has a list of parts they need regarding the Iraqi Army Maintenance Program, and if they make an accurate inventory and share an electronic database designed to assist the parts with other sites, they can complete their work maintenance workshops with organizing work or- orders, said Catlin. ders and documenting inventory, Sept. 30 at Camp During the meeting, IA members expressed con- Taji, Iraq. October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 11 HHC, Task Force 38 Soldiers sport combat patch

St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y Soldiers within the division refer to St a f f Sg t . Je f f Lo w r y it as the CY patch – referring to the di- Ta s k Fo r ce 38 Pu b l i c Af f a i r s vision’s nickname, “Cyclone Division” – when it is worn on combat uniforms. If Soldiers wear one on each shoulder, JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Soldiers they are called a “CY sandwich.” with Headquarters and “The CY patch means a lot to the peo- Headquarters Company, ple of Indiana, and I get to be a part of Task Force 38, took part in that,” said Sgt. Drew Mayer, a forward a combat patch ceremony observer and an Evansville, Ind., native, Sept. 15 at Joint Base with TF 38. Balad, Iraq. Mayer deployed to Iraq in March The unit waited until its 38th day 2008, with the Indiana National Guard’s in theater to hold the ceremony, even 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team as a though regulations state Soldiers may vehicle commander on convoys. wear the shoulder sleeve insignia on Capt. Paul Polyniak, an automation their first day in a combat zone. officer for TF 38 and an Indianapolis “I wanted to wait to make it signifi- native, said he earned his first combat cant,” said the task force commander, patch in 1991 while working with the Col. David Wood. “Today is day 38, and 82nd Airborne Division during Opera- we are Task Force 38.” tion Desert Storm. The patching ceremony was a first for “I think for somebody who doesn’t Sgt. Marcus Lindsey, a logistics sergeant have a patch, it’s very important,” said and an Anderson, Ind., native, with TF Polyniak. “It was a special day for me 38. when I got my first patch.” “There’s honor in it,” he said. “Now I Roughly 140 Soldiers are deployed Indiana National Guard 1st Lt. Brian Adkins, commander of Headquarters can say I served in theater like so many with the headquarters company, out of and Headquarters Company, Task Force 38, attaches a 38th Infantry Division have done before me and so many after Shelbyville, Ind., with nearly 40 having patch to Spc. Katie Modderman, an aviation operations specialist, during the me will do.” previously deployed to a combat zone. unit’s combat patch ceremony Sept. 15 at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. 41st Infantry Guardsmen put civilian skills to work for Iraq mission

St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y However, C Company, and making security improve- you feel a sense of accomplish- good adventure and life expe- Spc . Co r y Gr o g a n 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry ments. ment,” Williams said. rience, and I like coming out 41s t IBCT Pu b l i c Af f a i r s Regiment, with the Oregon “If you want to eat here, you The Soldiers in C Co. were here because it breaks up the National Guard’s 41st Infan- have to fill a sandbag before quick to mention their civilian monotony.” AL ASAD, Iraq – A group of try Brigade Combat Team, is going into the chow hall be- jobs when talking about the Trash, trenches or bunkers, Oregon National providing more than typical cause they are used for (COL) improvements made at CKV. the unit has seen some major Guard Soldiers infantry support to CKV, he security,” said Terrel. Terrel said they have electri- changes, said Williams. Ev- use their diverse said. This is all in addition to cians, carpenters, plumbers, eryone, including the Kellogg, backgrounds Terrel said CKV has been a their base mission providing engineers, a surgical nurse Brown and Root, Inc. employ- to take their survival post that units pass convoy security, quick reac- and even Cpt. Frank Klug, an ees, participates in the im- mission a through on 30, 60 or 90-day tion force and base defense, executive officer who is also a provements. step farther rotations, so no one took own- said 1st Lt. Troy Halacka, the rocket scientist. “You have to be industri- than the average unit – to im- ership of the rundown operat- officer in charge of the Tactical “We don’t know if we will be ous and a jack of all trades out prove Camp Korean Village at ing location. He said his unit Operations Center at CKV, and staying, but the oldest motto I here,” Wilson said. Al Asad, Iraq, in ways most wanted to be the group that fi- a Gresham, Ore., native. can remember is always leave Terrel said what C Co. does transient units would not con- nally took CKV under its wing. “It is a sense of pride claim- it better than when you found at CKV shows what the Guards- sider. Shortly after arriving, C Co. ing some ownership and tak- it,” said Terrel. “We’re all about men bring to the table. First Sgt. James Terrel, a requested – and was allowed – ing responsibility here,” said making this a better place.” “With the National Guard civil engineer and land survey- to take control of the Mayor’s Halacka. “They have done a lot Spc. Josef Lewis said most you have plumbers, you have or from Roseburg, Ore., said Cell that handles facilities and in a real short period of time.” of the bases in Iraq are like construction workers, you've his Soldiers ordered a couple of infrastructure at the base. Spc. Blaine Williams, a small cities, but Camp Korean got carpenters – we have a thousand feet of lumber upon Terrel said one of the group’s Roseburg, Ore., native, said Village is like a small town and higher skill pool to draw from, arriving at CKV, a stopover for first projects was to remove 30, their sense of pride is accom- C Co. takes pride in making it so we can fix things up our- convoys in western Iraq close ten-yard dump trucks. They panied by hard work. a better place. selves without having to rely to the Jordanian border. also began improvements on “Sometimes it’s hard when “The commander is push- on KBR as much to re-build a “People in Al Asad were ask- the Southwestern Asian huts you go to finally relax and ing for us to stay out here, be- building, or fix up a place, or ing, ‘What is a light infantry they live in – setting up Inter- someone says, ‘Hey, we need a cause we’ve got a whole lot of re- wire something,” said Ter- unit doing ordering lumber?’” net, working with local villag- detail to go do this, and go do nothing that we can make into rel. “It helps us accomplish the Terrel said. ers, putting up new structures that,’ but after you are done, something,” Lewis said. “It’s a mission more effectively.” Do you have a story idea? Contact us at: [email protected] PAGE 12 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 Vice president visits Victory By 1s t Sg t . Ga v i n L. McIl v e n n a has conducted more than 210 missions from the Vic- nel, equipment and baggage that have to be moved, in 1/82n d Ca v . Sq d n . tory Base Complex, 110 missions in the International synchronization with the tight schedule that included Zone, flown more than 4,100 miles, driven more than several locations, made the normal planning process CAMP VICTORY, Iraq – When Vice President Joseph 13,000 miles, and provided lodging to more than 839 just that much more difficult." Biden visited Camp Victory, Iraq, Sept. distinguished visitors, including the vice president, During the visit, Burghardt, a Clatskanie, Ore., na- 17 to meet with Iraqi senior officials, his secretary of defense, Gen. David Petraeus, country tive, worked directly with the vice president's military safety, security and even his meals re- musician Mark Chesnutt, actor Joe Pantoliano and aide and coordinated asset requirements through quired extensive planning and behind- the band Spin Doctors. Multi-National Division-Baghdad and the troop. This the-scenes action. Capt. Peter Wood, the troop commander, orches- involved developing the logistical matrix to ensure Biden serves as the White House trated the unit-level planning with U.S. Secret Service seamless movement of personnel, baggage and equip- high-point of contact for Iraq during special agents who arrived before Biden. ment to and from the Embassy and JVB Hotel. the responsible drawdown of U.S. troops and equip- "The planning and coordination involved in these In addition, Burghardt assisted with the develop- ment. types of missions are extremely important to the over- ment of a contingency plan for inclement weather To the Soldiers of the Klamath Falls-based C all success and execution of the mission,” Wood said. and acted as the communication conduit between Troop, 1st Squadron, 82nd Cavalry, 41st Infantry Keeping with the 82nd Cavalry’s motto of “Scouts the vice president's civilian staff and JVB for specific Brigade Combat Team, deployed to Camp Victory, Out,” the troop spent countless hours conducting requests. During execution, he was the MNF-I mili- the visit was the culmination of more than 10 days of advance reconnaissance of possible venues, primary tary escort officer on VBC, participating in all ground planning. and alternate vehicle routes, and detailed outer and movement operations. C Troop deployed in May with the brigade and inner security rehearsals. Staff Sgt. Jesse Ginestar, from Klamath Falls, Ore., was assigned to the Multi-National Forces-Iraq Joint The first hurdle the troop planned for was a quick was the noncommissioned officer in charge of the Visitors Bureau. The troop provides security, trans- movement to the International Zone in central Bagh- motorcade portion of the operation. portation and lodging to distinguished visitors, both dad after arriving at Sather Air Force Base. The unit has conducted small motorcade opera- military and civilian, in and around the Iraqi theater "Logistically, a visit like this is very demanding," tions in Baghdad for months, however, this involved of operations. said Maj. Michael Burghardt, the troop’s senior per- more than 25 different vehicles. Ginestar worked Since the unit arrived in Iraq in July, the troop sonal security officer. "The large number of person- shoulder to shoulder with the Secret Service.

Official White House photo by David Lienemann October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 13 Vice president visits Victory “The Secret Service agents kept me intimately in- section, led by Sgt. 1st Class Alan Humphrey, a Herm- volved throughout the planning process and the ex- iston, Ore., native, had to quickly prepare to meet the ecution of the mission,” Ginestar said. special needs of the vice president and all the staff Although the unit provides security at the JVB that accompanying him. With a section of six Soldiers, Hotel for all of its guests, this mission required more they quickly prepared a late night dinner for 120 trav- detail. With the unit’s first sergeant as the Sergeant elers and a special breakfast for the vice president the of the Guard, two squads provided security on a con- next day. tinual basis for more than 48 hours and met the Se- At the same time, breakfast was prepared for more cret Service requirements for a dignitary of the vice than 225 unit personnel and staff, and 65 bag lunches president’s stature. for the White House Press Corps and Communication The squads planned for road closures, night opera- Sections, Humphrey said. tions, pedestrian traffic, service vehicles and the mo- “The entire culinary section pulled together at the torcade movements. last minute and put out a meal that received numer- Sgt. Antonio Molina, a team leader with 2nd Pla- ous positive comments,” said Humphrey. toon and a Clearwater, Fla., native, praised the guards’ Sgt. 1st Class Gavin Bell, the JVB Hotel NCOIC, a work. native of Portland, Ore., sat down with Biden upon “The two squads at some point during those long his arrival to the hotel. hours had to reach within to find the strength and val- “The vice president said he was very appreciative ues needed to complete their mission,” Molina said. of the sacrifices the Guardsmen and their families With only a few hours notice, the troop culinary were making,” said Bell.

The vice presidential motorcade lined up and ready to move. Members of C Troop, 1st Squad- ron, 82nd Cavalry, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team out of Klamath Falls, Ore., provided se- curity for the vice president and the White House Press Corps during motorcade operations in and around Victory Base Com- plex and the International Zone.

U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Allison Shaw

U.S. Army photo by 1st Sgt. Gavin McIlvenna Vice President Joseph Biden and Spc. Terry Thompson, a Klamath Falls, Ore., native, (above) and Spc. Lori Vermillion, a Burns, Ore., native, (left) pose for the camera during Biden’s visit to the Pegasus Dining Facility on Camp Vic- tory in Baghdad. Thompson and Vermillion are members of the Klamath Falls-based C Troop, 1st Squadron, 82nd Cavalry, that provided se- curity for the vice president and the White House Press Corps during motorcade operations in and around Victory Base Complex and Vice President Joe Biden the International Zone. eats lunch with troops Thursday, Sept. 17 at the Pegasus dining facility in U.S. Army photo by 1st Sgt. Gavin McIlvenna Camp Liberty, Iraq. Official White House photo by David Lienemann PAGE 14 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 Flag football season kicks off at JBB St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y tem and a Super Bowl, during the week Sg t . 1s t Cl a ss Te r r a n c e Ma n n preceding Thanksgiving, followed by an 90t h Su s t . Bd e . Pu b l i c Af f a i r s All-Star Game. Post-season game details are not yet JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – The open- available. ing kick-off of flag football season, Sept. Two of the teams that met on opening 19 at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, day Sept. 19 were the Tough ‘Ombres, had the intensity of ESPN’s with the 90th Sustainment Brigade, College Game Day minus out of Little Rock, Ark., and the Odin the tailgating fans and Diamondbacks, a combined team from green fields. C-26, Target Acquisition Battery, 2nd Killeen Field offered Battalion, 4th Field Artillery Brigade, only stones and sand, but football en- 1st Infantry Division out of Fort Sill, thusiasts from units throughout JBB Okla., and the Target Acquisition Bat- formed teams to compete in a 12-game tery, 151st Field Artillery, out of Anoka, league. Minn. “The flag football league has 24 teams “We’re going to bring a South Eastern representing different units and servic- Conference style of football – fast and es across JBB,” said Army Sgt. Sergio physical,” said Sgt. Marcus L. Wash- Saucedo, a generator mechanic with ington, a supply sergeant with the 90th the 699th Maintenance Company and a Sust. Bde. Stockton, Calif., native.”The league has At home in Little Rock, Washington three divisions: West, East and North.” said he is a correctional officer and a fan The league was launched in May by of the SEC’s Arkansas Razorbacks. the 3rd Sustainment Command (Expe- “The football league is awesome in ditionary). Saucedo volunteered to con- making time go by, because it’s a great tinue it when the 3rd ESC left JBB, by stress release and lets us leave work The Odin Diamondbacks wide-receiver, Spc. Corey Jones, C-26, Target Acquisition handling the scheduling and adminis- behind and play football,” said Wash- Battery, makes a leaping catch over safety, Spc. Allen D. Agee, Jr., of the Tough ‘Om- bres. Despite Jones’ effort, the Tough ‘Ombres won 7-0 over the Odin Diamondbacks, trative functions. ington. “It gives players something to during opening games at Killeen Field on Joint Base Balad Sept. 19. A final schedule will place teams talk about with friends and family back within divisions and pit them against home, other than work or being here.” citizen-Soldiers from Oklahoma and mondbacks, with a touchdown in the competitive opponents based on the During World War II, the nickname Texas. closing minutes of the game. pre-season results. Tough ‘Ombres was given to the Fort The Tough ‘Ombres won their open- “Chemistry and teamwork on defense The season will feature a play-off sys- Hood-based infantry unit composed of ing game 7-0 against the Odin Dia- allowed us to have a complete game with minimal mistakes,” said Sgt. Charles R. Dixon, an automated logistics specialist with the 90th Sust. Bde. “We are happy with our performance and hope it car- ries on to the next game.” Today, the 90th Sust. Bde. is com- posed of a mixture of citizen-Soldiers from roughly 30 states. “We formed a team for the physical training aspect and camaraderie,” said Washington, who is also the defensive coordinator and a team member. “We don’t see each other at work, so it’s a good way to come together and show unit spirit.” The Odin Diamondbacks, a combi- nation of the 151st Field Artillery and C-26 TAB, is named after Odin, a god of Norse mythology, and the C-26 TAB’s Diamondback mascot. The Diamondbacks’ fast-paced of- fense relied on a strong passing attack led by quarterback Spc. Mario Martin, a supply specialist with the C-26 TAB and a Chicago Heights, Ill., native. “It was a good game,” said Martin. “It builds esprit de corps during the work Tough ‘Ombres defensive linemen, Capt. Taylor Jones, III., (left) and Sgt. 1st Class William Pedigo, prepare for the snap while line- day, because we talk about the game backer Sgt. Charles R. Dixon keys on the quarterback. The Tough ‘Ombres’ four interceptions led to a 7-0 victory over the Odin and toss a ball around when we have Diamondbacks in their opening game of Joint Base Balad’s flag football league, Sept. 19 at Killeen Field. free time.” October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 15 Service members walk, welcome German tradition By Sg t . Ry a n Tw i s t Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – More than 500 service members walked to celebrate a Ger- man tradition, the Volks- march, sponsored by the 64th Medical Detach- ment Veterinary Ser- vices, Sept. 26 at Holt Stadium at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. “A Volksmarch is not a race, it’s an event made so you can appreciate na- ture, appreciate fellowship and just get out,” said Lt. Col. David S. Galloway, the commander of the 64th MDVS. “You’re not working, you’re just enjoying your- self. That is the German culture. It is a much slower culture than America.” Galloway, a Memphis, Tenn., native, said the event boosts morale – getting everyone out of their offices or rooms, and away from the grind of their deploy- ments. He said it gives the service mem- bers a chance to experience a part of Ger- man culture in Iraq. “It’s the first Volksmarch I have ever heard of,” said Sgt. 1st Class Suzannie A. Wilkins, the 80th Ordnance Battalion noncomissioned officer in charge of sup- port operations. Wilkins, a Tacoma, Wash., native, said she did not know much about Germa- ny other than what she learned in high U.S. Army photo by 1st Sgt. Aangi Mueller school. She said she heard there would be interesting facts at stations during Service members walk toward a checkpoint during the Volksmarch Sept. 26, at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. the walk where she could learn about Germany. She received a beer mug in a “This is like (physical training) for said he spent a couple of weeks for annu- helped procure 624 German, St. Pauli drawing and was given a T-shirt for her us,” said 1st Lt. Yao T. Pone, the officer al training in Germany and went to some Girl, non-alcoholic beers, 350 Volks- participation. in charge of direct contracts, with the of the festivities there. march T-shirts, 150 "Never Back Down 90th Sustainment “The first Volksmarch, people’s walk, from a Challenge” Iraq, 2009 T-shirts, U.S. Army photo by 1st Sgt. Aangi Mueller Brigade out of Little was held in the early 1950s in a small 3,000 packs of German gummy bears, Rock, Ark. “This is town of Wald, Germany, as a non-com- 101 pounds of pretzel rods, 120 dozen fun, no pressure. petitive sporting event that everybody cookies, 120 Rice Krispy treats, 200 neck You come out, sweat could attend,” said Sgt. 1st Class Michelle cooling wraps, 40 gallons of sweet tea and have fun with D. Zuckert, the 64th noncommissioned and 20 cases of Gatorade, for the event. everybody.” officer in charge of operations. “Since She said all the volunteers helped Pone also won a then, the Volksmarch has happened in 14 bring as much German culture to the mug in the drawing. countries around the world.” event as possible. Her family, along with He said the mug and Zuckert said when her local chapter, the girl scouts, acquired and individually T-shirt were beauti- the International Wandering Club from wrapped 300 beer mugs from Germany, ful and he appreci- Heidelberg, Germany, asked for vol- she said. ated the generosity unteers, she hesitated at first. With her “Part of the march was actually through of the 64th. family and friends in Germany and ev- the only wooded area here on JBB,” said Pone, a Soloman erybody in the unit missing home, the Zuckert. “That was intentional, so people Island, Md., native, detachment decided to bring the Volks- would think about Germany and not nec- said he has had pre- march here. essarily about being here in Iraq.” vious experience “Here we are making history,” she said. The event had five stations along a with the German “This is the first Volksmarch in Iraq.” five km trail, manned by the 8th Medical culture, but not with Zuckert, who travels throughout Ger- Logistic Company, out of Miesau, Ger- the Volksmarch. He many and other countries doing Volks- many, and 64th MDVS Soldiers. Each marches, said the Heidelberg Interna- station had different information, trivia Three hundred beer tional Wandering Club sponsors a 2-day and music. mugs were given event every year. She said she, her family Galloway said the service members out at Holt Stadium and the Girl Scouts USA participate in celebrated in the spirit intended, walking after service mem- the Heidelberg walk, where she can enjoy and visiting with each other. bers participated the community as a whole. “We had over 500 people show up,” in the Volksmarch Sept. 26, on Joint Zuckert said her club, Soldiers’ Angels said Galloway. “It was a really good Base Balad, Iraq. Germany, and the JBB New Car Sales event.” PAGE 16 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 80th Ordnance Battalion hosts combatives tournament St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y Sg t . Ry a n Tw i s t Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – The 80th Ordnance Bat- talion hosted a Modern Army Combatives Program tournament Sept. 27 at the East Gym on Joint Base Balad, Iraq. “The importance of Army Combat- ives is to let everyone know that we’re Soldiers first, regardless of whatever our (military occupation specialties) may be,” said Spc. Nigel Davis, the noncommissioned officer in charge of the Modern Army Combatives Program, with the 80th Ordnance, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, out of Fort Lewis, Wash. Davis said competition is in his blood and he looks forward to competing in the next tournament, in which he expects participation from more service members. “I was very shocked,” said Davis. “I never expected to see so much technique, so much professionalism and so much joy out of competing in this tournament, and the fact they are ready for more.” “I feel great,” said Pfc. Ismael Roman, the opera- Staff Sgt. Oscar F. Narvaez, noncommissioned officer in charge of training for the 72nd Signal Battalion (Expedi- tions administrator for the 37th Engineer Battalion tionary), from Manheim, Germany, competed in the 80th Ordnance Battalion’s Modern Army Combatives Program out of Fort Bragg, N.C., who competed and won the tournament Sept. 27 at the East Gym at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. Narvaez, a Brooklyn, N.Y., native, was runner-up in middleweight division. “It was one of the best times the competition that included service members from the Army, Navy and Air Force. I’ve had here. I didn’t expect to win.” Roman, a Puerto Rico native, said he has compet- ter marketing has resulted in an increase in training ity of the combatants were my students.” ed in other tournaments, but this was his first Army facilities and instructors, he said. Davis teaches MACP level-one class, three times a combatives tournament. Before he joined the Army, “I encourage all Soldiers to actually go out and get month. he studied grappling, wrestling and Aikido, and plans involved in the Modern Army Combatives Program,” “Right now, we have graduated a total of 198 stu- to compete in the next tournament, he said. said Narvaez. “It’s something positive and it’s going to dents,” he said. “I’m going to try to get into every tournament there lead to nothing but positive things in the Army.” Davis said he was grateful to the Morale, Welfare is here; I encourage everybody to,” said Staff Sgt. Os- Davis said he has only done combatives for a year, and Recreation East Gym staff members for setting car F. Narvaez, noncommissioned officer in charge of but has trained in boxing and has knowledge of mar- up the event, because without them it would have tak- training for the 72nd Signal Battalion (Expedition- tial arts in Aikido, Judo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. en much longer. ary), out of Manheim, Germany, who competed in the “My goal is to go to level four and to continue on “I would also like to thank my assistant instruc- lightweight division and finished runner-up. training Soldiers,” he said. “For me to train some- tors,” said Davis. “If it wasn’t for them, the program Narvaez, a Brooklyn, N.Y. native, who has studied one and to see them utilize the technique that I have wouldn’t be as strong as it is today. It is easy for me combatives for three years, said watching the event trained them on, is just like an architect putting a to go in and sign a certificate but they actually train grow from one year to another was remarkable. Al- brick in a building. They can always look at that build- and teach the class, and we’re looking to have more though the Army adopted the program in 2002, bet- ing and see something they were a part of … A major- students. So, bring them on.” ‘Stay fire smart! Don’t get burned’ St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y make sure they are up to date,” said During the Iraqi kids day at the Spc . Li s a A. Co p e McGinnis. “If you need to switch out a JBB Fire Station, the firefighters will Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f fire extinguisher take it down to (KBR, demonstrate their equipment, give Inc.) down on Smith Range Road and the children a tour of the facility, give JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – In sup- swap it out for a brand new one.” them fire safety tips and let them use port of fire prevention Air Force Staff Sgt. Brian Cotner, an some of the equipment said Tech. Sgt. week, Oct. 4 through engineering assistant for the 332nd Ex- Kevin M. Ferrara, a fire inspector for Oct. 10, the Joint Base peditionary Civil Engineer Squadron, the 332nd ECES and a Hampton Va., Balad Fire Department said an Iraqi kids day, through the JBB native. is scheduled to host Kids of Iraq program, is scheduled for The fire station also scheduled an events to promote fire Oct. 10, from 9:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., open house Oct. 4 and fire extinguish- safety. during which service members will es- er training Oct.5, Oct. 6 and Oct. 8, “Stay fire smart! Don’t get burned,” cort Iraqi kids from local villages on a said Ferrara. is the motto for fire prevention week. one-on-one basis to allow them to take He said overloaded power strips, Sgt. Joshua E. McGinnis, a fire crew part in activities such as fire safety ex- improper use of extension cords and chief with the 23rd Ordnance Compa- ercises and making paper airplanes. transformers, bad light ballasts and ny out of Grafenwoehr, Germany, and “Only uniformed military will be general electrical issues are the big- a Springfield, Mo., native, said many escorting a kid, but civilians can volun- gest cause of fires on JBB. A lot of of the fires on JBB are avoidable. teer as well, working booths and help- dumpster fires are caused by service “It is a lot of common sense stuff for ing with the set up and take down,” members smoking near the dumpsters fire safety,” said McGinnis. said Cotner, a Portland, Ore., native. and not extinguishing their cigarettes If fire alarms are old or faulty, ser- Activities will be at the H-6 Recre- before they throw them away, said Sgt. Joshua E. McGinnis, a fire crew chief vice members can bring them to the ation Center where toys, crayons, can- McGinnis. with the 23rd Ordnance Company out of Grafenwoehr, Germany, and a Springfield, fire prevention office where they can dy and gift bags will be handed out to “Look at your surroundings and Mo., native, demonstrates proper donning be swapped out for new ones, he said. the kids as part of the festivities, Cot- make sure everything is fire-safe,” said of his safety gear Sept. 30 at the Joint Base “Check your fire extinguishers and ner said. Ferrara. Balad Fire Department. October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 17 Disarming power struggles: case example II ow for the second exer- can give, or be, as big a jerk. In fact, you can just drop – if I’m bugging you or our situation is problematic – Ncise. As a supervisor, the rope. This is not a sign of weakness. Your message I’d like to hear about it …” Can we assume that if there imagine you are caught in a is, “I don’t want to play this self-defeating or dysfunc- is a serious power struggle someone is pained or upset power struggle with a prob- tional game. Can we come up with a more productive about something? I think so. And inviting criticism lematic individual, let’s say an way to address the grievance or solve the problem?” often elicits real feedback and can help build trust. “I employee. For this mind game, 2. Use the “Four ‘P’ Process of Empathic Engage- need your contribution to meet our goals. I believe I’m the specific issue is not criti- ment.” One or both parties in a power struggle are in a position to support you. For us to succeed we have cal. Let’s say the general con- usually angry or anxious about something. Your an- to be pulling together not pulling apart” – affirms the tent involves issues of control, tagonist may be upset about your actions as a super- process – from dropping the rope to forging a partner- status or who has, or doesn’t visor or about a common problematic situation. For ship in power and performing. have, the right or power to example, in an employee’s mind, are you playing favor- Closing Summary “The Stress Doc” make a decision. Let’s call the ites in the department? In order to quickly connect to a Two mind game exercises have been delineated. Mark Gorkin employee Person A and the belligerent or injured party – after setting limits on any The first exercise, interaction with a critical aggressor, supervisor Person B. In this harassing behavior, of course – attempt to engage the highlighted defensive reactions to a verbal barrage: exercise, the battle begins with the employee declaring, other person around his pain and passion, or her pur- 1) feeling rejected, surprised or exposed; “You can’t make me!” and the supervisor countering, pose and sense of power, or feelings of powerlessness 2) feeling attacked and becoming aggressive; “Oh yes I can!” My workshop instructions specifically or helplessness. These Ps are definitely a pathway to 3) and feeling fearful or humiliated and withdraw caution antagonists about getting out of their chairs. empathy and possibly more peaceful coexistence. ing. But the players can be as aggressive or as whiny as they 3. Reduce the Status or Power Differential. As a Positive strategic interventions were also outlined: wish. After a couple of verbal volleys, the participants manager, or parent of a teenager, unless absolutely 1) differentiating reaction and response, are encouraged to say what they would really like to say necessary, don’t lead with your authority trump card. 2) metacommunication, to their antagonist. As much as possible, try to level the playing field and 3) using assertive I messages, Not surprisingly, at some point during this ex- strive for adult-to-adult communication. Somehow, 4) and taking a time out. change, for many folks there is an eruption of laughter. this issue of use of status and power reminds me of a The disarming power struggle exercise noted the Perhaps it’s the somewhat artificial and absurd nature politically incorrect, somewhat tongue-in-cheek obser- five cs that spur on self-defeating or ego-driven battles of the interaction. Also, some people cover up intense vation by a bank vice-president regarding his biggest – control, competition, change, cultural diversity and emotions, such as raw aggression, through nervous source of stress. communication skills. laughter. However, for me, the number of people who “I can’t beat my employees and I can’t fire my chil- Next, four communication tips and tools for disarm- get hooked by the battle, who want to win seems sig- dren,” he said. ing dysfunctional power games were detailed: nificant. Why are people so quick to get caught up in Actually, if used consistently this step will likely free 1) drop the rope, a power struggle? I’ve come up with “The Five ‘C’s of the other person to be more forthright in their com- 2) use the four ps for engagement, Power Struggles:” munication. And if you are fortunate, your antagonist 3) reduce the status or power differential, 1. Control. Who will be in control? I believe this will even provide critical feedback. Why do I say for- 4) and avoid black or white thinking. is connected to authority issues and, ultimately, the tunate? In the long run, I believe nothing builds trust And finally, a power sharing to power struggle re- parent-child dynamic. more than when a person expresses clean and clear an- sponse in the face of employee provocation is provided. 2. Competition. This also has family roots, such as ger and finds the recipient doesn’t fall apart, run away Surely these are all concepts and tools to disarm ag- sibling rivalry issues. Who is better? Who is the fa- or abandon them, doesn’t viciously blast back or seek gressors and power struggles, to forge more productive vorite? revenge. You may not agree with the other person’s ar- working relationships, and to help us all … Practice 3. Change. During periods of transition, there’s much gument but you have demonstrated acknowledgement Safe Stress! uncertainty. Who is in charge? Do the rules and op- and respect. erational procedure still apply? Some people will try to 4. Avoid Black or White Thinking. An argument that fill the void, appropriately or inappropriately. Change must result in one person being right the other party Mark Gorkin, LICSW, “The Stress Doc” often stirs uncertainty and anxiety and may push some wrong clearly tightens the tension in the tug of words ™, is an acclaimed keynote and kickoff speaker, to become overly rigid, manipulating or controlling. if not war. Dividing antagonists into winners and los- training/OD & team building consultant, psycho- 4. Cultural Diversity. Surely the variety of socio- ers doesn’t foster lasting conciliation and working part- therapist and “Motivational Humorist.” He is the cultural and demographic dynamics shape how we ners. Oftentimes, a sign of real strength is the capacity author “Practice Safe Stress: Healing and Laugh- give meaning to experience, including meaning to the for some comfort with uncertainty or even being ten- ing in the Face of Stress, Burnout & Depression” motivations, beliefs and behaviors of self and of others. tative in the heat of battle: “I’m not sure about that” and “The Four Faces of Anger: Transforming An- Personal maturity is often required if difference and or “Right now, I don’t agree. Still, you make a good ger, Rage, and Conflict into Inspiring Attitude & disagreement are not reflexively equated with disap- point. Let me think more about this.” We’ve already Behavior.” A kickoff speaker for Estrin Legal Ed- proval and disloyalty. discussed the strategic value of taking a time out. ucation Conferences, the Doc is America Online’s 5. Communication Skills. Finally, effectively nego- Again, allowing for uncertainty or delayed decision- online psychohumorist ™ and pioneer of a USA tiating the aforementioned Cs – Control, Competition making creates subjective space for opinions and stra- Today Online “HotSite” – http://www.stressdoc. and Cultural diversity – especially in the context of an tegic options. You are inviting the other to be a genu- com – recognized as a workplace resource by Na- actual or potential emotionally charged power struggle ine problem-solving participant. Setting aside black tional Public Radio. For more info on the Doc’s requires a communicator who can be both assertive or white thinking encourages power sharing instead speaking and training programs and products, and empathic – a communicator who can both affirm of power struggle. Both managers and employees can email [email protected] or call 301-875-2567. limits and respect boundaries. generate an array of leading and colorful ideas. Key Communication Principles Disarming Words of Wisdom Now let me provide four communication tips and With the four cs of power struggles and the above tools for preventing a conflict or misunderstanding communication principles in mind, as a manager what from turning into a full-fledged struggle or an ongoing might you say to a provocative employee who declares, This issue of the Expeditionary Times contains battle: or in so many words infers, “you can’t make me”? Con- a reader submitted article written by Mark Gor- 1. Drop the Rope. How do you not take the bait when sider this response: “I don’t know if I can make you or kin, also known as “The Stress Doc.” Mr. Gorkin’s someone is provocatively fishing for an argument or I can’t make you. That’s not where I’m coming from views are not necessarily those of the Department power struggle? The challenge becomes not instinc- …” – resisting the provocative bait. Not quickly play- of Defense and the inclusion of his submission is tively pulling back when someone offers you a rope and ing the authority trump card; you are tentative without not meant in any way as an endorsement of his ser- then yanks your chain. You don’t have to prove you giving up your power potential – “If we have a problem vices.

On the Web 10th Sustainment Brigade, Camp Taji http://www.taskforcemuleskinner.army.mil/mm.asp PAGE 18 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 Warfighters take to streets for rabies awareness St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y and a Chicago native, said she used Sg t . Ke i t h S. Va n Kl o mp e n b e r g the run as a training event. Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f “This is my training for the Army 10-miler,” said Goodson. “I didn’t even JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – More know rabies was prevalent here.” than 700 service mem- Stinnett said the Army spent bers and civilians par- $64,000 on rabies treatment in Iraq ticipated in the 5k Ra- since January, treating roughly 40 bies Awareness Run Soldiers and civilians with bites from Oct. 2 at Joint Base potentially infected mammals. Balad, Iraq. According to the AVMA, rabies is a The run was virus that affects the central nervous sponsored by the system and is fatal without preven- 64th Medical Detachment (Veterinary tative treatment. A series of vaccina- Services) and Hill’s Pet Nutrition, tions after exposure to an infected Inc., who supplied more than 600 T- animal can prevent the disease, but shirts for participants. once symptoms appear there is no “There have been rabies awareness treatment, according to the AVMA. runs on nine installations and this Early symptoms include irritabili- was the last event,” said Pfc. Ashley ty, headache, fever and itching or pain Stinnett, a veterinary food inspection at the bite site. Eventually, symptoms specialist with the 64th Med. Det. and progress to paralysis, spasms of the a Granite Falls, N.C., native. throat muscles, convulsions and de- Stinnett said the races, which took lirium, according to the AVMA. place throughout Iraq, were part of The AVMA reports that rabies the American Veterinary Medical As- kills one to two humans every year in sociation’s Rabies Awareness Month. the U.S., but kills more than 55,000 The AVMA held World Rabies Day worldwide. According to the National Sept. 28. Research Council, animal rabies is “We’re trying to inform people said to have a low occurrence in Af- about the disease,” said Spc. Carlos ghanistan and Iran but, in Iraq, infec- Hernandez, a human resource spe- tion in dogs is widespread. cialist with the 64th Med. Det. and a To combat this, the Department of San Antonio, Texas, native. the Army has included guidance for Master Sgt. Dorothea Goodson, deployed Soldiers in general order noncommissioned officer in charge number one. According to the policy, of operations for Headquarters and adopting as pets or mascots, caring Warfighters run to raise awareness of rabies in a 5km race, sponsored by the 64th Headquarters Company, 13th Sus- for, or feeding any type of domestic or Medical Detachment (Veterinary Services) and Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc., Oct. 2 at Joint tainment Command (Expeditionary) wild animal is prohibited. Base Balad, Iraq. Chaplains share personal experience, learn about suicide prevention St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y day’s training was to provide Brigade, 101st Airborne Di- killed him, he took 114,” he diers need,” he said. Spc . Li s a A. Co p e advanced knowledge to the vision roughly 10 years ago, said. “He was saved because Bair said he attended the Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f chaplains and chaplain as- Cardona presented suicide that Soldier wrestled him to training to better understand sistants on the subject of sui- prevention training with the the ground and drove him to the motivation behind a Sol- JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq cide, and how that knowledge key message of “take action.” the hospital.” dier committing suicide. – A suicide pre- that we all carry can be used Roughly a month later, a Sol- The training allowed chap- “It is important for chap- vention class to help other Soldiers in our dier in the unit took 114 pills lains to share their personal lains and assistants, that we for all Army command,” said Cardona. in an attempt to commit sui- stories and experiences and have a deeper understanding and Air Force Cardona said he spent cide, said Cardona. learn from each other, said of suicide and some of the Unit Minis- roughly two weeks reading When two service members Master Sgt. Michael Bair, the root causes,” he said. try Teams about, preparing for and writ- tried to escort the Soldier to command chaplain’s noncom- Soldiers experiencing per- on Joint ing the information-based— the hospital, he refused to go, missioned officer in charge sonal difficulties sometimes Base Balad, Iraq, was held on as opposed to intervention- said Cardona. with the 13th ESC and a San find it easier to talk to a chap- Oct. 2, at the Provider Chapel based—training. “The Soldier put a head- Diego native. lain assistant because they Annex here. Cardona spoke about the lock on the Soldier who took “The most helpful part of feel more comfortable with The training and open-fo- perception of suicide and how the pills, the other grabbed the training for me was lis- enlisted personnel, said Bair. rum discussion lasted from 9 it has changed throughout him by his legs and threw him tening to the different per- Bair said, “I believe, per- a.m. to 11:30 a.m., led by Maj. history. into the back of the car,” he spectives of the chaplains and sonally, that suicide is never Saul E. Cardona, the family- He said he has experience said. their faith backgrounds, and the answer, that every person life chaplain for the 13th with suicide both person- They escorted the Soldier some of the assistants; how has a reason to live, and that Sustainment Command (Ex- ally, with the loss of a fam- who took the pills to the hos- even though they have their through our help, and Sol- peditionary) and an Añasco, ily member, and profession- pital, where his stomach was own faith backgrounds, they diers’ help, and leadership’s Puerto Rico, native. ally. While stationed at Fort pumped, said Cardona. are able to disconnect from help, maybe we can find their “The main goal for to- Campbell, Ky., with the 3rd “Five pills would have that and look for (what) Sol- reason to live.” October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 19

Sudoku Test your The objective is to fill Level: Hard knowledge the 9×9 grid so that each column, each row, 4 7 1. What is the minimum number of musicians a and each of the nine 8 5 4 6 band must have to be considered a “big band?” 3×3 boxes contains the 2. What 1976 chart-topping song did Barry Manilow digits from 1 to 9 only 2 6 sing, but not write? 3. What band is named after a scuplture in Seattle one time each. 1 6 5 7 8 4 Last week’s answers that hums in the wind? 5 3 4 1 8 2 9 6 7 4 9 4. What Beatles single lasted longest on the charts, at 9 8 6 3 7 4 2 1 5 19 weeks? 7 2 1 6 5 9 3 4 8 9 7 3 8 1 5. What Pink Floyd song was banned by the South 4 5 2 7 1 8 6 3 9 African government after it became an anthem for 8 6 3 9 4 5 1 7 2 5 2 1 7 9 2 3 6 8 5 4 black school children? 2 9 7 4 6 1 5 8 3 2 6 5 1 3 1 5 8 9 7 4 2 6

6 4 8 5 2 3 7 9 1 3 9 Wall The In Birck Another 5. Jude .Hey 4. Soundgarden 3. Songs The Write I 2. Ten 1. JOINT BASE BALAD JB BALAD ACTIVITIES INDOOR a.m., p.m. CC Cross Fit: Hold’em: Ping-pong Friday- 7 p.m. WORSHIP SERVICES POOL 5-6 p.m Caribbean Monday- Mon., Fri.,- 2 tourney: Aerobics: TRADITIONAL - Sunday MASS - Saturday Swim Lessons: Edge Weapons Night: Saturday- p.m., Tuesday- 8 Monday, 0200 Air Force Hospital Chapel 0930 Provider Chapel 1700 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) Mon., Wed.,- 6 & Stick Fight- Friday- 8 p.m. 10:30 p.m 8:30 p.m. p.m. Wednesday, p.m. ing Combative Chess & Domi- Cross Fit: 8-ball tourney: Foosball Friday- 7 p.m. 1030 Freedom Chapel (West side) 1100 Castle Heights (Bldg. 7562) 2000 Freedom Chapel (West Side) Tue., Thu., Training: noes Tourney: Mon., Wed., Tuesday- 2 tourney: Body by Sat.,- Tue., Thur., Friday- 8 p.m. Fri.,- 5:45 a.m., Tuesday- 8 Midgett Toning 1400 Air Force Hospital Chapel 1730 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) Sunday 0830 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) 6:30 p.m. Sat.,- Salsa Class: a.m., 7 a.m., 3 8:30 p.m. p.m. Class: 2000 Air Force Hospital Chapel 1100 Provider Chapel 1100 Air Force Hospital AquaTraining: 8-10 p.m. Saturday- 8:30 p.m., Ping-pong Jam Session: Tue., Thu., - 7 Tue.,Thu.,- p.m. 6 p.m. tourney: Tuesday- 7:30 p.m. GOSPEL - Sunday Thursday 1100 Air Force Hospital 7:30 p.m., 8:30 EAST REC- Poker: Tue., Thu.,- 7 Tuesday- 8:30 p.m Dodge ball 1100 MWR East Building 1200 Freedom Chapel (West Side) Mon., Wed., Fri. 1700 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) p.m. REATION Saturday- 7:30 a.m., p.m. 8-ball tourney: Game: CENTER p.m. 3 p.m. Spades: Wednesday- 8 Tuesday- 7:30 1230 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) Monday-Friday 1130 555th Engineer Bde. (Bldg. 7200) EAST FIT- 4-ball tourney: Sunday- 5:45 Wednesday- 2 p.m p.m. 1900 Provider Chapel JEWISH SHABBAT SERVICES- Friday NESS Sunday- 8 p.m H6 FITNESS a.m., a.m., Guitar Lessons: Furman’s CENTER 8-ball tourney: CENTER 7 a.m., 3 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Thursday- 7:30 Martial Arts: CONTEMPORARY- Sunday 1700 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) Open Court Monday- 8 p.m Spin: P90x: Salsa: p.m Mon., Wed., 0900 Chapel- Next Iraq/MWR East Saturday 0930 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) Volleyball: Karaoke: Sunday- 9 a.m. Monday- Sat- Wednesday- Game tourney: Sun.,- 1 p.m. Sunday- 6 p.m. Monday- 8 Mon., Wed., urday- 4:30 8:30 p.m. Thursday- 1 Gaston’s Self- 1030 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) 1700 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) Aerobics: p.m. Fri.,- 2 a.m., 8 a.m., 4 p.m., 9-ball: p.m, 8 p.m. Defense Class: 1400 Castle Heights (Bldg. 7562) 1900 Freedom Chapel (West Side) ISLAMIC PRAYER - Friday Mon., Wed., Swing Class: a.m. 2 p.m., 7 10 p.m. Thursday- 2 Enlisted Poker: Fri., Sat.- 7 Fri.- Tuesday- 8 p.m., 12 a.m. a.m., Friday- 1 p.m., p.m. Wedneday 2000 Gilbert Memorial Chapel 1230 Provider Chapel 5:30-6:30 a.m. p.m. 9 p.m. Soccer: 8:30 p.m. 8 p.m. Open court LITURGICAL (Episcopal, Anglican, Presbyterian) - Sunday PAGAN/WICCAN FELLOWSHIP - Thursday Yoga Class: Table Tennis: Tue., Thu., Tue., Thu.,- 8 Karaoke: Officer Poker: basketball: Mon., Fri.- 6-7 Tuesday- 8 -5:45 a.m., p.m. Thursday- 8:30 Saturday- 1 Thursday- 7 1700 Provider Chapel 1900 The Shack a.m. p.m. 9 a.m., 8:30 Yoga: p.m. p.m., 8 p.m. p.m. Step Aerobics: Plastic Models p.m. Wednesday- 8 Dominos: Squat Compe- Open court SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST - Saturday Saturday 1900 The Shack Mon., Wed., Club: Saturday- 9 p.m. Saturday- 8:30 tition: soccer: 1000 Provider Chapel GREEK ORTHODOX - Sunday Fri.- Wednesday 7 a.m., 7 p.m. MACP Level p.m. Saturday- 8 Mon., Wed., - 7 5:30 p.m. p.m. Boxing: 1: Darts: p.m. p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST - Sunday 0900 Provider Annex Conditioning 9-ball tourney: Sunday- 4 p.m. Friday- 8 p.m. Saturday- 8:30 Zingano 1530 Castle Heights (Bldg. 7562) FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: Training Class: Wednesday- 8 Tue., Thu.,- 2 5 on 5 Basket- p.m. WEST FIT- Brazilian Jui Mon., Wed., p.m. p.m. ball: WEST REC- NESS Jitsu: LATTER DAY SAINTS (MORMON)- Sunday Gilbert Chapel: 443-7703 Fri.- 7:15- Dungeons & Boot Camp: Saturday- 8 REATION CENTER Tue., Thu.,- 1300 Provider Chapel 1530 Freedom Chapel (West side) Provider Chapel: 433-2430 8 p.m. Dragons: Sunday- 8:45 p.m. CENTER 3 on 3 basket- 8:30 p.m. Brazilian Jui- Thursday- 7:30 a.m Green Bean ball 1900 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) Freedom Chapel: 443-6303 Jitsu: p.m. Tue.,Thu.,- 7 H6 RECRE- Karaoke: tourney: CIRCUIT Mon., Wed., Poetry Night: p.m. ATION Sun., Wed., Saturday- 7:30 GYM Fri.- Thursday-8 Power Abs: CENTER 7:30pm p.m. Floor hockey: 8-9 p.m. p.m. Mon., Tue., Bingo: 9-ball tourney: 6 on 6 vol- Mon., Wed., Abs-Aerobics: 6-ball tourney: Thu., - 8 p.m. Sunday- 8 p.m. Monday- 8 leyball Fri.,– Tue., Thu., 6-7 Thursday- 8 Friday- 9 p.m. Texas p.m. tourney: 8-10 p.m

Sunday 10/11/09 2009 MLB National League Division Series - Game 3: Upcoming sports Teams TBD, Live 1:30 a.m. AFN/xtra College Football Armed Forces Appreciation Day: TCU @ Air Force, Live 2:30 a.m. AFN/prime atlantic on AFN 2009 Presidents Cup: Third Round (Harding Park Golf Wednesday 10/07/09 Friday 10/09/09 Course, San Francisco, CA), Tape Delayed 10 a.m. AFN/ 2009 NBA Europe Live: Chicago Bulls vs Utah Jazz (London, 2009 MLB Divisional Series - Game TBD; Teams TBD, Live sports UK), Tape Delayed 3 a.m. AFN/xtra 1 a.m. AFN/sports College Football Primetime: Middle Tennessee @ Troy, Live 3 Chicago Blackhawks @ Detroit Red Wings, Live 2:30 a.m. Monday 10/12/09 a.m. AFN/sports AFN/xtra 2009 MLB American League Division Series - Game 3: San Jose Sharks @ Los Angeles Kings, Live 5:30 a.m. AFN/ 2009 NBA China Games: Denver Nuggets vs Indiana Pacers Teams TBD, Live 2 a.m. AFN/prime atlantic xtra (Taipei, Taiwan), Tape Delayed 5 a.m. AFN/xtra NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series: Virginia NHRA Thursday 10/08/09 Saturday 10/10/09 Nationals (Richmond, VA) (JIP), Live 2:30 a.m. AFN/xtra NHL Phoenix Coyotes @ Pittsburgh Penguins, Live 2:30 a.m. ESPN College Football Primetime: Louisiana Tech @ Nevada, Sunday Night Football: Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee AFN/xtra Live 4 a.m. AFN/xtra Titans, Live 3:15 AFN/sports MLB TBD, Live 4:30 a.m. AFN/sports NHL Dallas Stars @ Calgary Flames, Live 4a.m. AFN/prime Tuesday 10/13/09 MLS FC Dallas @ San Jose Earthquakes, Live 5 a.m. AFN/xtra pacific 2009 MLB American League Division Series - Game 4: 2009 WNBA Finals - Game 4: Teams TBD (If Necessary), Tape 2009 MLB Divisional Series - Game TBD; Teams TBD, Live Teams TBD (If Necessary) Live 2:30 AFN/xtra Delayed 12 p.m. AFN/sports 4:30 a.m. AFN/sports Monday Night Football: New York Jets @ Miami Dolphins, live 3:30 a.m. AFN/sports Indy Car Racing Series: Firestone Indy 300 (Homestead- Miami Speedway; Homestead, FL), Tape Delayed 8 a.m. AFN/xtra PAGE 20 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009

A great film full of ‘Funny People’ By Sg t . Ja y s o n A. Ho f f m a n from her Aussie husband Clarke (Eric Bana). Ira, a ous. He is the righteous innocence of the movie. Ro- Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f nerdy romantic, gets stuck in the middle of all of this gen portrays a vision of what George Simmons was as he tries to figure out life. like as a young comedian, enthusiastic about life. unny People” is a great blend The cast for this movie was fantastic. The sup- Sandler pulled off his best acting role to date. He “Fof hilarity and reality. At porting roles filled by Jason Schwartzman (“Rush- was funny, but he was also a troubled man who was times it’s eye-wateringly funny and more”), Jonah Hill (“Superbad”), Aubrey Plaza never satisfied with anything. He aimlessly lashed at others it’s downright depressing. (“Parks and Recreation”) and Eric Bana (“Star Trek”) out at Ira when all Ira wanted to do was appease his This is one of the most well-crafted were great. childhood idol. He was a complex character, and films this year, and Judd Apatow Schwartzman and Hill, who play Rogen’s room- Sandler pulled it off. (“Knocked Up”) keeps going strong with his string mates, are fantastic when interacting each other The overall story was solid. The first half of the of heartfelt, raunchy comedies. and with Rogen. The moments these three share to- movie is pure hilarity, while the second half turns This film is the story of an up-and-coming comic gether are perhaps the funniest the film has to offer. into a drama about adultery and forgotten love. The who works in a sandwich deli, a huge comedy movie Their scenes consist of the hilarious, raunchy banter second half drags a little and the story suffers just star, and a married mother of two. Ira Wright (Seth that audiences have grown to love and expect from slightly, but the comedy in it more than makes up for Rogen) is an ambitious stand-up comedian, who, by an Apatow movie. Their friendship with one another it. The running time of 2 hours and 22 minutes may a stroke of luck, performs his set in front of George seemed very genuine. seem excessive, but it works for this film. Simmons (Adam Sandler), the comedy star, and The three leads were equally great. Leslie Mann “Funny People” is a hysterical ride full of highs George hires Ira as his assistant and joke writer. is great as a former B-quality actress turned mother. and lows of human emotions that will make the au- George suffers from a terminal illness and wants to She’s funny and she shows great emotion at the end dience genuinely care for the characters. You will be get back together with the love of his life, Laura (Les- of the movie. sucked in and forget about your worries for a couple lie Mann). The story is about George’s ups and downs Rogen, easily the most likeable character in the of hours, and if you’re a fan of Judd Apatow’s work, with his illness, and trying to win Laura’s heart back movie, is great as Ira. He’s shy, awkward and hilari- then go see this movie. Cornwell: historical fiction at its very best By St a f f Sg t . Jo e l F. Gi b s o n angry mob threatens to tar and feather named Thomas Truslow), and they be- some of the most interesting are those Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s St a f f Starbuck, who is rescued by his college come good friends and go on to great based on real people. roommate's affluent father, a pillar of military success. Col. Nathan Evans, the Confederate ernard Cornwell’s Virginian society. Starbuck struggles with difficulties officer responsible for holding the left B“Rebel,” tells the The setup in any multi-volume work both literal and figurative as he fights flank of the battle until reinforcements story of the Battle of is critical and Cornwell was on target to gain acceptance as a stranger in a arrived, had an enlisted orderly named First Manassas and, in creating a plausible back story for strange land and with his conscience Otto who carried a stone backpack full based solely on the ti- an abolitionist preacher's son becom- for the sins he has committed. of whiskey for the colonel's refresh- tle, it is unsurprisingly ing a Confederate Army officer without While the trials and tribulations of ment. Evans affectionately referred to told from the Confederate viewpoint. bludgeoning the reader to death with Starbuck and Truslow make great sto- the backpack as “Barrelito.” This is not a textbook version of the minutia. ries, where "Rebel" shines is in the de- I never read that nugget of informa- battle, but an engaging story about a Anyone familiar with Cornwell's ri- piction of battle scenes. tion anywhere until I picked up "Reb- fictional Bostonian who finds himself diculously successful Sharpe chronicles The level of research is phenomenal; el." fighting for the southern cause. will immediately recognize the formula the small details about the battlefield On a scale of 1 to 10, I give "Rebel" a The protagonist, Nathaniel Star- in "Rebel," wherein the stubborn offi- immerse the reader completely into the solid 9, and I suggest everyone interest- buck, starts his journey in Richmond, cer (Starbuck) wins over the truculent environment. ed in the Civil War or historical fiction Va., right after Fort Sumter falls. An noncommissioned officer (an outlaw Fictional characters are great, but to pick up a copy. pvt. murphy Sustainer Reel Time Theater

Wednesday, Oct. 7 Sunday, Oct. 11 5 p.m. The Goods 2 p.m. Surrogates 8 p.m. Post Grad 5 p.m. District 9 8 p.m. Shorts

Thursday, Oct. 8 Monday, Oct. 12 5 p.m. The Goods 5 p.m. Post Grad 8 p.m. Jennifer’s Body 8 p.m. Jennifer’s Body

Friday, Oct. 9 Tuesday, Oct. 13 2 p.m. District 9 5 p.m. Surrogates 5 p.m. Shorts 8 p.m. District 9 8:30 p.m. Surrogates

Saturday, Oct. 10 Wedesday, Oct. 14 2 p.m. Shorts 5 p.m. Shorts 5p.m. Surrogates 8 p.m. The Hurt Locker 8 p.m. The Hurt Locker October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 21 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Edwin L. W h o t oU.S. s Soldiers r o u n d P from A Troop, A 2nd Platoon, 1st Battalion, 150th Armored Re- connaissance Squadron, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, r a q U.S. Air Force photo by Spc. Ernest E. Sivia III 1st Cavalry Divi- I sion, from Blue- field, W. Va., conduct a weap- ons cache patrol along with Iraqi soldiers Sept. 23, north of Yusifi- yah, near Bagh- riston dad.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Luke P. Thelen

Mukhtar Adil Ayid Kurdi, local leader for the Sons of Iraq in the city of Mahazem, leads U.S. Soldiers from the 25th Spe- cial Troops Battalion Security Detachment, 25th Infantry Division, from his home after meeting to discuss possible security concerns Sept. 22 in Mahazem, Iraq. An Iraqi Police officer takes a bite on a pro- tective arm wrap from Rossi, a military work- ing dog, during a train- ing mission Sept. 24 on Contingency Oper- ating Location Adder, Dhi Qar, Iraq. The Iraqi Police officers watched demonstrations on explosives searching techniques with ca- nines, provided by U.S. Airmen and Sailors.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Gavriel Bar-Tzur

U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Albino Mendoza III Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al Maliki and the official party disembark a C-130 Hercules dur- A member of the Iraqi National Police Command observes ing a Sept. 14 visit to Contingency Operating Location Adder, in southern Iraq. The visit closely during a class led by U.S. Army Spc. Chance was part of a tour to assess the standard of living in Nasariyah. McGraw from Southern Pines, N.C., assigned to 1st Pla- toon, A Troop, 5/73rd Cav. Sqdn., Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division, about how to make a terrain model, Sept. 8, at Forward Operating Location Sa- lie, Iraq. PAGE 22 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 Ne w s a r o u n d Ir a q 11th police basic Iraqis, US work recruit training to support the class graudates at drawdown of Maysan Center forces MAYSAN, Iraq – One thousand, six hundred Iraqi police officers graduated from Basic Po- ALI BASE, Iraq – A joint visit here Sept. 24 by an lice Recruit Training Sept. 17 at the May- Iraqi Air Force general and an American san Police Training Center here. Air Force general provided the Iraqi Air Training for BRT Class 09-07 consist- Force a better understanding of what as- ed of a four-week, 240-hour training curriculum sets will be available to support them dur- which included courses in Iraqi Police organization, ing the and U.S. drawdown of troops and equip- police conduct and discipline, uniform and equip- ment from Iraq. ment, drill and ceremony, defensive tactics, fire- Iraqi Air Force commander, Staff Lt. Gen. An- arms and less than lethal weapons, physical skills war, and U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Robert Kane, training, and human rights. director of the Iraq Training and Advisory Mis- Graduating students were from multiple district sion – Air Force, a part of Multinational Securi- stations throughout the Maysan Province. ty Transition Command-Iraq, visited the 407th During his commencement speech, Training Air Expeditionary Group at Ali Base. Center Dean, Iraqi Lt. Col. Gazi Hameed Samare, Together they conducted a site survey of the air- said the graduating students will return to their as- The IA and IP conducted house-by-house field and facilities and spoke to local media from An signments better prepared to serve their communi- searches while Soldiers from Apache Troop, 6th Nasiriyah about the future of the base. ties throughout the Maysan Province in a modern, Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Heavy Bri- “We are working together to ensure the base is effective, community-police fashion. gade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division joined IA transferred smoothly to the Iraqi Air Force accord- The graduation ceremony was attended by offi- Soldiers and the IP special weapons and tactics ing to the security agreement,” Anwar said. “We cials from the office of the Provincial Chief of Po- team to provide security. have tremendous support from the prime minister, lice, Provincial Emergency Response Units, MND-S Intelligence reports suggested the small town the minister of defense, and the U.S. Air Force.” Task Force 4-6 Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Rob- was harboring suspected foreign terrorist fighters. The generals were provided an overview of local ert Menist and members of Maysan Police Transi- With this information, the Iraqi Army decided to airfield operations and saw many of the ongoing tion Team stationed at Combat Outpost Station conduct a cordon and search to verify the reports construction projects across the base including an Gary Owen. The mission of the team is to train, ad- and possibly apprehend the foreign fighters. air traffic control tower facility, which will increase vise, assist and enable the Maysan Provincial Train- The Apache Troop Soldiers began the mission safety and operability at the airfield with improved ing Center and district police stations to progress in the pre-dawn hours of Sept. 14. Second Lt. technology. They also saw several ramp expansion towards self-sustainment and Iraqi Police primacy. Sean Buchanan, platoon leader for 2nd Platoon, projects. Upon completion of the graduation ceremony, Apache Troop, and Capt. Jason D’Amato, the Anwar praised the U.S. Air Force for upgrading students said their BRT training was great and it Apache Troop commander, met with Iraqi Army and maintaining the airfield. prepared them for many upcoming challenges in Lt. Ali and Iraqi Police Capt. Basam, team leader “I had visited the base before, but today we saw Iraq. They said that they are committed to helping for the IP SWAT team. After assessing the situa- many new construction projects,” said Anwar. “I improve the internal security and stability of Iraq tion, the Iraqi Soldiers began clearing the village want to send my thanks to the U.S. Air Force for and the Maysan Province, and appreciate the train- house by house. their current and future support.” ing and assistance they continue to receive from the One U.S. Army platoon positioned Bradley fight- multi-national forces. ing vehicles in key positions around the village to The Maysan Provincial Training Center is ex- provide outer security and use optics to prevent Five new police stations pected to commence a 12th BRT class in late Sep- the possible escape of suspected insurgents. tember with a class size of nearly 2,000 IP recruits. “I hadn’t been out at night in a Bradley yet this In addition to basic recruit training, the MPTC and deployment,” said Spc. Tony Biernacki, gunner for under way in Mosul the MPTT are scheduling multiple, specialized in- the platoon. “It was certainly nice to have the op- service training courses in preparation for upcom- tics there to use.” MOSUL, Iraq – The Nineveh Governorate Council ing elections in January. IA Soldiers and the IP SWAT team moved and Iraqi governmental officials, with the through the houses, holding more than 30 poten- assistance of the Gulf Region Division, tial suspects for questioning. After initial ques- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Iraq, tioning by the IA, additional background informa- have taken steps to bring civil stability ISF conducts tion was collected on 10 of the suspects and one back to the city of Mosul. was detained by the IA for further questioning. The recent renovation of the Mosul Courthouse For some of the second platoon’s enlisted Sol- and construction of the police academy are evidence partnered cordon diers, this was their first nighttime mission and of that commitment. this was the first mission they had conducted in The Gulf Region District’s Mosul Resident Office, this area. They said they were satisfied with the in partnership with the Iraqi government, is again and search overall success of the mission and confident in taking steps to stabilize the region through the con- themselves and their non-commissioned officers. struction of five expedient Iraqi police stations — MOSUL, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers and an Iraqi “I was nervous and excited,” said Pfc. Robert with a heavy emphasis on expedient. Police Special Weapons and Tactics Devolld, a rifleman with the platoon. “It was great The Iraqi Police and the Multi-National Security team, assisted by U.S. forces, conducted to know that I had Sergeant (Joshua) Lawton and Transition Command-Iraq are placing the stations a cordon and search mission Sept. 14 at Sergeant (Patrick) Zeigler by my side the entire in heavy urban areas of the city to beef up the po- Tall Sunam, in western Ninawa province, time to make sure I was always doing the right lice force and provide additional security during the Iraq. thing.” January 2010 elections. October 07, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 23

Mosul’s significance to the future of Iraq can be interrupted,” he said. “Though Iraq’s military and “The operation was also successful in its secondary drawn from a direct correlation to its Arabic transla- police forces are performing increasingly well, more purpose, in identifying points of interest, confirming tion, “linking point.” The city of 1.8 million people, remains to be done. and denying cache locations and trigger points, and situated on the Tigris River in northern Iraq, has Since 2004, NTM-I has been helping Iraq de- allowing reconnaissance of combined ambush em- long been recognized as a center of diversity in Iraq velop security forces that are professional, operate placement locations,” said Merriss. with its ethnic population of Sunni Arabs, Kurds, in accordance with the rule of law, and respect hu- Ganem explained this operation showed insur- Assyrians and Iraqi Turkmen. The deteriorating se- man rights. NTM-I consists of 210 personnel from gents in the area that the military can go anywhere curity conditions following the annexation of Iraq 12 NATO countries and one Partnership for Peace it needs to go to conduct operations and keep people have plagued this once proud, 2,500-year-old city. country. NTM-I is a non-combat operation. safe. He added insurgents will think twice about em- Mike Fellenz, a project engineer for Gulf Region NTM-I has being training, mentoring and advis- placing IEDs on this route in the future after seeing District, said the new police stations will give police ing officers in the Iraqi Security Forces since 2004, this operation. in the Nineveh Province sufficient infrastructure to in order to assist the Government of Iraq resume its support their force generation. important place in the international community and “These police stations are designed for rapid con- to improve the security of all Iraqi people with dem- Soldiers seek out, struction and provide both office space and living ocratic security forces. quarters for police officers and the administrative NTM-I mentors and supports the INDU, INDC arrest suspect in Iraqi staff,” said Fellenz. and the Defence Strategic Studies Institute. Other Rather than use the traditional Iraqi construction cooperation projects for NATO in Iraq are out of taekwondo team murders method of bricks and mortar, the stations will use country training courses for Iraqi nationals at NATO prefabricated buildings without compromising se- schools as well as National Police training led by RAMADI, Iraq – Soldiers from the 9th Regional Com- curity. All the new police stations will have security Italian Carabinieri and at Ar Rustamiyah the Iraqi mando Battalion, Iraqi Special Operations fencing and T-walls, guard towers, a parking area Military Academy along with the Joint Staff College Forces, with U.S. forces advisers, arrested a and entry control point. The administrative offices, and Command College. suspect in the 2006 kidnapping and murder armory, living quarters, showers and lavatories are NTM–I officers also provide mentoring and advice of at least 13 Iraqi taekwondo team members containerized housing units. A CHU is the size of to the Prime Minister’s National Operations Centre, Sept. 24 near Khalidiyah, Iraq. a single-wide house trailer and is used throughout the Iraqi Ministry of Interior Command Centre and A warrant was issued by the Magistrate Court in Iraq on all military installations for housing and of- the Iraqi Ministry of Defence Joint Operations Cen- Karmah, Iraq, for the suspect’s alleged involvement in fices. tre. the kidnapping and murder of the team members. The Nanocon Engineering and Technology Com- In May 2006, while driving to Jordan for a training pany, Cosmopolitan, Inc., and Albial Group Con- camp, the team’s vehicle was stopped and all 15 team struction Company, LTD are the general contrac- Combined force clears members were abducted between Ramadi and Fallu- tors for the five police stations. The stations will jah. In June of the following year, several sets of re- cost between $490,000 and $674,000 each, based mains were found and believed to be those of the miss- on the size of the station. Funding for the project is dangerous route ing team. provided by the Iraq Security Force Fund. The suspect is also believed to be involved in mul- The Gulf Region Division, U.S. Army Corps of KIRKUK, Iraq – A combined force consisting of Iraqi tiple terrorist activities and crimes against the country Engineers in Iraq has completed thousands of re- and U.S. Soldiers, Iraqi Police and Sons of of Iraq. construction projects in partnership with the U.S. Iraq conducted a large-scale clearing oper- Operations such as this by Iraqi Security Forces are government and the government of Iraq. Since ation, Sept. 23, along a key road in Kirkuk in adherence to Iraq’s Rule of Law. 2004, GRD has completed 5,257 projects through- province to prevent insurgents from stag- out Iraq valued at more than $8.9 billion, and has ing attacks with improvised explosive devices. 361 projects ongoing. The road between Kirkuk and Hawijah has recent- US, Iraqi Federal Police ly been the scene of multiple improvised explosive device attacks targeting both Iraqi Security Forces and U.S. Forces. bring gift of clean water NATO training “This road is the main artery from Hawijah to Kirkuk,” said 1st Lt. Patrick Merriss, the executive BAGHDAD – In Iraq, purified drinking water is a mission-Iraq opens officer of C Company , 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry luxury not everyone receives. Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Soldiers of C Troop, 5th Squadron, 73rd Division. “We were attempting to find and clear out Airborne Reconnaissance Cavalry Regi- new HQ possible weapons caches and anything (insurgents) ment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd might have emplaced there.” Airborne Division, found a simple filter can have a BAGHDAD – With a slice from a scissor, the ribbon The operation began before dawn, when U.S. Sol- profound impact Sept. 21, during their visit to the was cut and NATO Training Mission-Iraq diers met with their IA counterparts to begin check- village of al-Tameem, in eastern Baghdad here. inaugurated their new headquarters Sept. ing the route. Both sides placed Soldiers in the fields U.S. troops and Iraqi Federal Police from 2nd 13 at Contingency Operating Location on either side of the road and began the nearly 18- Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 1st Federal Police Division Union III in the International Zone. kilometer walk. arrived in the village and set up their operations in Participating were U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Frank “We are showing power in the area,” said Lt. Col an open area. From there, the combined goodwill Helmick, commanding general for NTM-I; his depu- Ganem Hussein Shabeeb, an officer with 2nd Battal- team moved on foot from street to street with an ty commanding general, Italian Maj. Gen. Giuseppe lion, 47th Brigade, 12th Iraqi Army Division. “This FP truck laden with water filters. Spinelli; and U.S. Admiral Mark Fitzgerald, com- lets the people know that we work together.” “What we did was we went house to house and mander, NATO Allied Joint Force Command in Na- This mission will also help keep the civilians trav- met with the people,” said Capt. Jeffrey Black, ples. eling the road out of harm’s way, Merriss said. commander of C Troop. “The FPs hadn’t been in NTM-I moved here from its previous base at the “This is a very important road to keep safe,” said there in a while, so we went in to talk to them just Baghdad Culture Centre. Its move fulfils actions Ganem. “There is normally a lot of traffic.” to get to know the people, let them know that the directed by the Security Agreement and the NATO While the IA and U.S. Soldiers searched the fields FPs and the U.S. forces are here for them.” Long-Term Agreement with Iraq, by which the Gov- and road, SoI and IP kept civilian vehicles off the Each person who answered the knock received a ernment of Iraq has asked NATO to continue its as- road and ensured no insurgents traveled on the road water filter for their home and the knowledge that sistance. to retrieve hidden weapons. U.S. and Iraqi Security Forces had come to help. “The relocation of this headquarters enables the Merriss said this was the first time an operation They were also given information to use should Government of Iraq to put the Baghdad Cultural like this has been conducted along this route since the need arise, Black said. Centre compound to another use of value to both the his unit began operating there. “We passed out little tip-line cards, saying, Government and the people of Iraq,” Helmick said In addition to providing Soldiers to clear the ‘Hey, if there’s a problem, call us; call the FPs,’” in a statement. fields, U.S. forces also provided aerial support and he said. NTM-I’s mission is to advise in Iraq’s various military working dogs specially trained to find ex- The act was one of charity, which was more military and police academies, Helmick said. NTM-I plosives. meaningful than the typical aid mission, said 1st personnel continue to work and train alongside their Although no weapons were discovered during the Lt. James Teeter, assigned to C Troop. Iraqi counterparts. operation, multiple command wires used to trigger “That’s like the poorest area that we’ve got and “These important relationships will continue un- IEDs were found along the route. those people desperately need it,” Teeter said. PAGE 24 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s October 07, 2009 Phantom Support

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Tajuana Harrison Staff Sgt. Carlos Franco, from Guatemala, ensures Charleston, S.C., native, 1st Sgt. Frances Simmons’ weapon is clear of any am- munition before she leaves the rifle Qualification Range Sept. 16, held for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 260th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Anita VanderMolen

Students of the Al Amal Deaf Institute, at Al Rumaiytha Dis- U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Rex Tran trict, Muthanna Province, Iraq, receive equipment needed for education and information access Sept. 14 from the The 419th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion’s senior officer, Lt. Col. Kristan Hericks, of Irvine, Ca- U.S. Army and the Provincial Reconstruction Team, Muth- lif., looks over, and the land the battalion convoys have traveled for the past 10 months. The 419th CSSB anna, based at Camp Adder. will be redeploying soon after nearly a year-long tour at Camp Taji, Iraq.

The 639th Mainte- nance Company, 620th Combat Sus- tainment Support Bat- talion, 10th Sustain- ment Brigade, has the mission of support- ing the Class I, trans- portation, the Sup- ply Support Activity, and fuel farm. This translates into a fleet of palletized loading systems. Pfc. Darryl Bird, from Browning, Mont., is checking the transmission on one of the PLSs for leaks. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Tad Browning

Soldiers of the 36th Sustainment Brigade and 36th Spe- U.S. Army photo by 2nd Lt. Nathaniel Hause U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Joshua Dunklee cial Troops Battalion stand ready after receiving their new combat patches Sept. 23 on Contingency Operating Spc. Israel Morse, an integrated family of test equipment Location Adder, Iraq. The patch, showing a phoenix over operator/maintainer, from San Diego, finishes repairing a field of red, white, and blue is being worn for the first a broken power supply. Morse is a member of the com- time. munications and electronics section with the Ground Support Equipment Platoon, 659th Maintenance Com- pany out of Fort Bragg, N.C.