OALITION Volume 4, Issue 8 August 2009 CHRONICLE

BIAP Canals Flowing Again

Foreign exchange: U.S. Marines, Iraqi Soldiers

British Forces In Reach End of mission Spc. Lucia Arballes of Jamaica, N.Y., assigned to the 3rd Brigade, 215th Brigade Support Battalion, OALITION 1st Cavalry Division, stands next to a 10-K forklift she’s been working on at the battalion’s mechanic shop HRONICLE at Forward Operating Base Marez, C in Mosul, Iraq, July 7. (U.S. photo The Official Magazine of by Mass Communication Spc. 1st Class Carmichael Yepez) Multi-National Corps — Iraq

On the Cover August 2009 Volume 4, Issue 8

MNC-I Commander Lt. Gen. Charles H. Jacoby, Jr.

MNC-I Public Affairs Officer Col. John R. Robinson

MNC-I Public Affairs Sergeant Major Sgt. Maj. Richard Puckett

Editor/Layout and Design Ms. Renea L. Everage page 4 Questions, comments and concerns about the “Brother in Arms” give to servicemembers Coalition Chronicle can be addressed via email at and Iraqi children [email protected]. mil. Submissions of articles, photos and letters are also welcome. The Chronicle reserves the right to edit for security, accuracy, propriety, clarity and space. Archived issues are available at http:// www.dvidshub.net. Electronic versions of current issues can be found at www. mnc-i.com.

page 8 The Coalition Chronicle is an authorized monthly publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of this Iraqi-born U.S. Army monthly publication are not necessarily the official views Soldier returns home of or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the Department of Defense. The editorial content of this publication is the to become U.S. citizen responsibility of the Public Affairs Office of the Multi- National Corps-Iraq.

Departments

Feature up Front page 1

Freedom’s Focal Point page 10 Photo Feature page 17 page 18 U.S. airborne medics teach basic In Memoriam skills to Iraqi forces page 21 FEATURE UP FRONT Canals are Flowing once again ...

Story and photos by U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Luke Koladish MNC-I Public Affairs

An Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority worker tests the pressure in the pump system pipes of the canal that drains excess water from beneath the runways of Baghdad International Airport.

August 2009 1 Gorgess Oshan, an employee of the Iraqi ...at Baghdad Civil Aviation Authority, tightens the bolts for the pipe connecting the submersible to the pump International as Sgt. Thomas Jeffrey Phillips, 364th Civil Affairs Brigade, watches, July 23, Airport near Baghdad International Airport.

In subsequent visits, Lubas outlined steps for a maintenance program, coordinated with Iraqi engineers on what repairs had to be done to get the pumps operational, and formed standard operating procedures. “They were running the pumps in manual position and with a water in the pipes to keep the system The water level at the first pump power grid so unstable, once power charged and ready to resume as the station had already decreased two went out the pumps would shut canals filled. feet and the water at the second down and the pressure would bleed “I was astonished today how much pump station was flowing easily and out and it wouldn’t turn on again.” work they have done to get to the smoothly. The BIAP canals merge Sgt. Thomas Jeffrey Phillips, Chief Petty Officer Edward M. Lubas and engineering advisor Majeed Al Tamimi from the 364th Civil Affairs Brigade, and engineers from the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority observe the flow of water into the canal that runs Part of the new SOP was to keep pumps operational, and they did it with other canals until they reach outside of Baghdad International Airport, July 23. the pumps running automatically on their own, with their own parts,” farms needing irrigation. so they would stop when the water Lubas said during the last scheduled “They have been shown how it gt. Thomas Jeffrey Phillips, “To see all that water barreling integrity of the runways. reached a certain level, but still keep visit to the canals. works, they got the parts and they Navy Chief Petty Officer out and filling the canal was a pretty The civil affairs team was got it working,” Al SEdward M. Lubas, and Majeed good feeling.” concerned that those pump Tamimi said. Al Tamimi, a bilingual bicultural More than two months ago the stations might be the problem. “Whether or engineering advisor, stood at ICAA Director General, Sabeeh After a survey of the sites, Lubas, not they will keep the edge of an empty canal that Al Shebany, expressed that the a telecommunications officer from maintaining and disappeared into the horizon. increasing water levels beneath Jacksonville, Fla., immediately saw keep it running is The team from the 364th Civil the runway were a priority for any the problem. now up to them, we Affairs Brigade, Camp Victory, assistance the 364th could provide “The mechanical seals were bad, are finished with the listened as a diesel back-up said Lt. Col. Howard A. Schaffer of the control units were covered in project.” generator was fired up, popped, Beaverton, Ore. dust that causes shorts, back-up sputtered and then died. “They said the water table beneath diesel pumps were non-operational After a few adjustments were the Baghdad International Airport and there were some holes in the made by mechanics from the Iraqi was too high and they thought piping system causing a lack of Civil Aviation Authority, the pumps there might be an issue on our pressure,” he explained. Chief Petty Officer were primed. Water progressed side of the canal system (Victory Despite the disarray of the Edward M. Lubas from a muddy trickle to a steady Base Complex),” said Schaffer, and equipment, the team decided that examines the drive flow, bringing a satisfying end to the economic development officer with with proper maintenance and a shaft of a pump at a project that started back in April. the brigade. few repairs, the pumps could be station along with Iraqi “It’s good to see they were able to A series of pumps had been operational again. Civil Aviation Authority pull everything together and get it completed as a Commanders’ “The first part was explaining engineers outside working,” said Phillips, a functional Emergency Response Program or to the Iraqis they didn’t need new Baghdad International specialities noncommissioned CERP initiative in November 2007 equipment, they just need to replace Airport, July 23. officer-in-charge and Gilbert, Ariz. to ensure the water table beneath a few parts and maintain what they native. BIAP did not compromise the had,” Phillips said. 2 Coalition Chronicle August 2009 3 taught the children first aid. routine of 12 to 18 hour shifts, In the past, they have that makes their situation hosted soccer and basketball a whole lot better,” said A unique call to duty: games. They have even taken Satterwhite.” It’s really nice the children on field trips to to provide an outlet and Maj. Kent Broussard, (left) fire stations and gave them a downtime for Soldiers.” environmental science officer chance to try on firefighter’s As for their own inner for the 1st Cavalry Divsion gear. circle, these fraternity and other members of Kappa “It is very rewarding to brothers also have their own Alpha Psi fraternity teach first give back to the community support system to help each aid to Iraqi Boy Scouts and and mentor when there is other make it through the Girl Scouts during a recent an opportunity to make a deployment. Just sitting with partnership session. The difference by educating and them for a few minutes can fraternity “brothers in arms” empowering our youth,” said make you feel like you will group meets weekly at Pegasus Broussard. never be alone with these dining facility on Camp Liberty for fellowship and to make The fraternity’s mission guys. plans for future partnership of making a difference does “We’re extremely close opportunities with the Iraqi not stop there. They also go knit,” said Hall. We’ve community. The group has the extra mile helping fellow enjoyed some of the most previously hosted volleyball Soldiers. The group sponsors “When they are reading poetry hearty laughs and light and basketball games for the poetry readings to give Soldiers a for example, they can forget for moments, memories that will last Iraqi children and even took chance to express themselves and a moment what’s really going on forever.” them on a field trip to a nearby jazz socials where Soldiers can kick around them,” said Berry. “If you Those memories of partnership fire station. back and enjoy soothing music. It’s a take their mind off of it for a while, it and giving something back would chance for everyone to escape from eases stress.” likely have made fellow Kappa Alpha the stress of combat life. “Wherever you can break the Psi member Arthur Ashe very proud.

Fraternity “brothers in arms” give Members of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity meet weekly at Pegasus dining facility on Camp Liberty, Iraq for fellowship and to discuss plans for upcoming partnership opportunities with the Iraqi community. The group includes (left to right) Maj. Frederick Hall, 225th Engineer Brigade and Maj. Kent Broussard, 1st Cavalry Division; (kneeling) Maj. Reginald Satterwhite, 1st Cav. Div., 1st Lt. Derrick Isaac, 620th CSSB, Mr. Derrick Mitchell, a civilian contractor; and (standing in rear) Maj. Willus Hall, 225th to Soldiers and Iraqi children Engineer Brigade and Lt. Col. Joe Berry, Multi-National Corps - Iraq. “From what we get, Story and photos by Lt. Col. Pat Simon 225th Eng. Bde Public Affairs we can make a living; what we give, however, “Meetings like this took place during partnership with the 225th Engineer Vietnam and even World War II.” Brigade. “We are taught from the makes a life.” At the beginning of Operation onset (during college) that this is hat quote from former tennis Iraqi Freedom in 2003, the first list a lifelong process, a journey for great, Arthur Ashe, is not just of Kappa Alpha Psi OIF Soldiers achievement.” Ta famous saying, it’s a way of was made and it was passed along “Achievement is the premise life for a unique group of Soldiers through the years for new members of everything we do,” echoed deployed here in Baghdad. They are to join during their deployments. Pensacola, Fla. native, Maj. Kent members of the college fraternity, Now, some 115 lists later, the spirit Broussard, environmental science Kappa Alpha Psi, who meet every of the group lives on – through officer for the 1st Cav. Div., MND-B. week at the Pegasus dining facility service. What these fraternity brothers on Camp Liberty, Iraq. They are “Whenever we can, we like to achieve is not mandated by fraternity “brothers in arms” and give back,” said Lt. Col. Joe Berry, an Army operations plan for part of a time-honored tradition of a Greenwood, S.C. native and elder partnership with the Iraqis, but their service on the battlefield. member of the group who works accomplishments do meet the same “It’s been up and running here with Multi-National Corps-Iraq as a desired goal. in Iraq since the beginning of the corps signal officer who assists the Every other week, Berry, Hall, war in 2003,” said Maj. Reginald Iraqi Security Forces. Broussard and other members of Satterwhite, a division automations “We view it as a lifelong the fraternity reach out to the local officer for 1st Cavalry Division, commitment,” said Maj. Willus community of Baghdad and spend Multi-National Division-Baghdad, Hall of Lafayette, La. who serves as quality time with Iraqi Boy Scouts who hails from Columbia, S.C. the officer-in-charge of and Girl Scouts. Recently, they 4 Coalition Chronicle August 2009 5 Trash collection marks new era Foreign

Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Rodney Foliente in Iraqi province 2nd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs exchange: CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE , Iraq “This project is part of an ongoing campaign to clean Iraqi soldiers and -- U.S. forces are helping Iraqi officials ring in a new era up the city of Basra and change the way the city does - with services like trash collection. trash collection,” he said. Marines conduct joint Soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division’s, 2nd Brigade Other projects include street-cleaning services, incen- weapons range Combat Team, and members of the provincial recon- tives for citizens delivering trash directly to dump sites, struction team in Iraq’s Basra province met with the repairing the trash collection fleet and constructing sol- AL ANBAR PROVINCE, provincial governor, July 1, as he distributed the sym- id-waste transfer stations, Hutchison said. “For the long Iraq – Bullets flew bolic first trash can to a family as part of a far-reaching term, we’re also working with the provincial reconstruc- downrange as U.S. Marines Capt. Russell Tuten (foreground), operations cleanup initiative. tion team to get an incinerator to dispose of their trash.” with Military Transition advisor with Military Transition Team 7, teaches Brigade soldiers coordinated with the local govern- The U.S. has funded about $8 million for local trash Team 7 and Iraqi soldiers an Iraqi soldier with Route Clearance Platoon, 7th Engineering Regiment, 7th Iraqi Army ment to provide trash cans to residents throughout the collection and cleanup initiatives, Hutchison said, noting with Route Clearance Division, how to properly hold an M4 carbine city of Basra. that the city generates about 2,200 tons of trash daily. Platoon, 7th Engineering Regiment, 7th Iraqi Army rifle during a joint firing range course near Al “Both the Iraqis and Americans are committed to fol- With insufficient waste-management services, many Asad Air Base, Iraq, July 1. Division, fired machine Story and photos by low the terms and conditions of the security agreement, residents simply dumped their trash outside their homes U.S. Marine Cpl. Jo Jones guns, rifles and pistols which we are applying step by step,” said Basra Gov. and along the roads. Children can often be seen playing MNF-W Public Affairs Sheltag Aboud around or in such during a joint firing range al-Mayah. “At areas. Local resi- course near Al Asad Air soldiers then switched places, “It was pretty neat to shoot the this time, we A city worker prepared to unload new trash dents have been Base, Iraq, July 1. allowing each other to fire foreign weapons the [Iraqis] use,” said are going to containers from a truck and distribute them to used to such con- “The point of the range is to gain weapons. Wedde. “It was also fun to work with start a new era citizens of Basra, Iraq, July 1. About 12,000 ditions for years, familiarity with different types of “The Iraqis are getting experience the Iraqis. They are quick learners.” of cooperation.” containers were delivered, with a goal of Hutchison said. weapons,” said Capt. Russell Tuten, with our weapons, and we are Iraqi army 2nd Lt. Bashir 350,000 being delivered in the near future. In the past era, “These condi- operations advisor with MiTT-7. getting experience with their Adel Abed, commander of Route the cooperation tions are causing Iraqi soldiers blasted targets with weapons systems,” said Tuten. “It Clearance Platoon, said he enjoyed was based on problems with the their PK medium machine guns builds a bond between us to come up interacting with the Marines, and the the military, but health of the resi- from the turrets of Mine Resistant here and shoot together.” experience helped Iraqi soldiers gain was also accom- dents,” he added. Ambush Protected vehicles, while Cpl. Mark Wedde, a logistics clerk a better understanding of Marine panied by some Such conditions Marines did the same with their with MiTT-7, fired on the range and weapons-handling techniques. reconstruction also can lead M240B and M240G medium said he enjoyed learning more about “We had fun with the Marines efforts. residents to be machine guns. Marines and Iraqi the Iraqi weapons systems. today,” said Abed. “The Marines “The new era discontent with taught us how to [aim] and fire will witness their government Iraqi soldiers teach Marines how to their guns. Today was really that Iraqis and and the lack of es- properly load ammunition into their awesome.” Americans will sential services, PK medium machine gun during a Tuten and the rest of his team joint firing range course near Al Asad focus on recon- he noted. have been working with soldiers Air Base, Iraq, July 1, 2009. struction,” he “This is a good of the 7th IA Division for almost continued. “Our thing for the peo- a year. Tuten said the Iraqi American friends comprehended the important priority ple of the city,” said city employee Abasi, who drove one soldiers are eager to learn and of having a clean city, and also the priorities of having of the trucks loaded with trash cans, and watched with have shown remarkable progress water and electricity. They will help us in having these obvious satisfaction as Noordein and his family received and confidence in their weapons- things as essential services.” a container. handling abilities. Distribution of the first trash cans was just the be- “This will help make the city beautiful, and we can “When I got here, the Iraqis had ginning, the governor said. “Today, we’ll deliver to the have a healthier and cleaner city,” said Abasi, who has not trained on these weapons at people, as a first step, 12,000 trash cans. At the end, worked for the city for three years. He said things have all, to my knowledge,” said Tuten. the number will reach 350,000, with each house having seemed to improve recently, and that he feels hopeful for “They’ve progressed quite a bit.” one trash container. This is the starting point for a lot of the initiatives driven by the government and the future Abed said the skills his soldiers other projects to follow.” of his city. learned at the range will help them In addition to the trash containers, officials in the pro- “We are thankful to the Americans for helping us in defend themselves as they work to vincial capital plan on providing regular trash collection our efforts to clean our city,” he said. “A cleaner city will keep Anbar province safe for the services, said Maj. Stanley Hutchison, the brigade’s civil benefit all in Basra, but I want this mainly for my chil- Iraqi people. liaison team leader. dren and for all the children of Basra.” “We will be ready for anything.” 6 Coalition Chronicle August 2009 7 e all know the colors very dangerous.” receive his U.S. citizenship. associated with American If that was not enough, Brown “It’s truly amazing to have this Windependence: good old became emotionally scarred by the new opportunity,” said Brown. Iraqi born U.S. Soldier red, white and blue. But this year, we way fellow citizens treated him at the Just four months ago, Brown was can add another color: brown, as in time because of his tenure with the attached to the 225th Eng. Bde. He Spc. “Brown,” an interpreter with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. found himself right in the middle of 225th Engineer Brigade, currently “Many of them thought I was a history engaging in conversations returns home, becomes serving in Iraq. traitor,” he said. “They called us very between military leaders from both Brown joined 236 other service bad names. They did not realize that countries. members, who raised their right when we did our jobs, we did them As a military engineer interpreter, American citizen hand and recited the oath of for the Iraqi people.” Brown has literally bridged the gap citizenship as new Americans at Al Brown felt there was no longer between two worlds, and he has Story and photos by Lt. Col. Pat Simon Faw palace, July 4. a future for him in his war-torn finally come to grips with his own 225th Eng. Bde. Public Affairs Vice President Joe Biden country. He had to leave his father, world: his past and future. and Multi-National Force-Iraq brother, and two sisters behind and “It’s a big responsibility,” said Commander, Gen. Ray Odierno were set a new course for freedom and Brown. “I know I am making a also in attendance at the ceremony. opportunity — America. difference. This is important for me.” Biden commended the newly sworn- Brown applied for and was granted By the end of the year, Brown, in citizens for their service and their a special immigrant visa. His first a new American citizen, will decision to become Americans. stop was Denver, Colo., to live with once again have to leave behind “You represent what America his uncle. Brown tried to find a his beloved birthplace, but the always stood for: strength, freedom, job in engineering, but he found circumstances are different this Spc. “Brown” (foreground), served as a translator and resolve … also remarkable nothing. He remembered a friend time. during the training of members of Iraq’s 2nd National diversity,” he said. that was a former associate of his in “My old life is over for me here, Police in a recent Army engineering route clearance “It is an amazing feeling,” said Iraq. He called her and within a few but I would like to return and visit class. Brown has been instrumental in bridging the Brown, soon after shaking the days, Brown and his wife were in St. one day as an American citizen,” he language gap during the historic transition phase of hands of both the vice president and Louis, Mo. staying with that friend. said. operations in Iraq. Odierno. “I was shaking, nervous,” She then he said. suggested that The name “Brown” is not really his he apply for a birth name, but a nickname given program that Spc. “Brown” shakes hands with to him by an Army officer. He kept would change Vice President Joe Biden during a the name to protect the lives of his his life, and naturalization ceremony at Camp Liberty, Iraq July 4. family members who are living in unbeknownst Baghdad. to him at the Brown recalled growing up and time, it would living under the brutal dictatorship put him right of . back on the “As a student, I remembered that soil of his we had to stay behind the wall to homeland. stay safe from the former Baath Within Party,” he said. “You could not weeks, Brown talk about politics. Those that did was not only disappeared.” at U.S. Army Brown received his education Basic Training in civil engineering and got a job as a new in Baghdad as a supervisor for the recruit, he was U.S. Corps of Engineers. He quickly a qualified found out that his daily commute to interpreter Tikrit to check on water, sewer and who was on electrical projects would become a the fast pace frightening trek. to deployment “The security was very bad. There to Iraq. The were many sectarian problems over program also here. It was not easy moving from expedited area to area,” said Brown. “It was his ability to 8 Coalition Chronicle August 2009 9 10 Freedom’s Focal Point Coalition Chronicle

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August 2009 11 Point Focal Freedom’s 12 Freedom’s Focal Point ht b St 1t Class Jon Cupp) 1st Sgt. by photo Army (U.S. refugees. of rights the foradvocate an as Iraq MND-B in while Soldiers meet and with speak to Iraq. time took Liberty,Jolie Camp to Angelina Jolie, July 23 during a visit and ambassador Goodwill actress Nations United to coins division and hat Div.Cav. 1st a presents Division, Division- Baghdad, Cavalry Multi-National 1st general, Falk commanding the native, Adrienn administrative assistant to N.D. Sgt. Fargo, Coalition Chronicle Specialist 2nd Class Brian K.Fromal) 2ndClassBrian Specialist Communication Mass by photo Navy mine (U.S. Qasr, Umm Iraq. of at 1, July 8), hull the countermeasure ship around USS Scout (MCM completing dive after a Early Greg Class Craig Diver Simon Navy Chief Senior eres ay ie 2nd Diver Navy debriefs , ae Kn (.. i Fre ht b Tech. Sgt. Johnny by L.Saldivar) photo Force Air (U.S. Kan. Base, Force Air McConnell from deployed is Britt an individual to safely retrieve a fuel sample. allowing apparatus the to hose the through an Enterprise, Ala. native, to re-circulate fuel Britt, by primarily built connection sampling fuel a is “Frankenstein” 20. July force truck, fuel air Iraqi Iraqi and an to “Frankenstein” connect members technician, lab fuels Squadron Readiness Logistics Expeditionary Below: Army photoby Spc.Gregory Key) (U.S. well. as refreshing was a but tradition, on days carried only for not dousing degrees the end, on 110 than more hitting temperatures With W.Va. Ridge, Cool from comes Painter and Va., W. hails Princeton, from Simmons Baghdad. in Stryker Camp from Team,operate Combat 30th Brigade Heavy Squadron, Reconnaissance Armored 150th the Guard’s from National Army two, Virginia The West 25. July sergeant, to specialist from promoted being after salute they as them from “washed” ranks previous Painter Nathan Simmons Sgt.Timothy Senior Airman David Britt David Airman Senior cne) ae their have (center) lf) and (left) August 2009

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Sgt. 13 Point Focal Freedom’s Freedom’s Focal Point U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, exits a building with Iraqi army Maj. Gen. Habib, commander of the Spc. Laura Johnson, a 10th Iraqi Army Division, after meeting with U.S. and Iraqi military leaders at Camp Dhi Qar, Contingency Operating photojournalist with the 211th Base Adder, Iraq, July 28. Gates was visiting COB Adder to discuss current U.S. military involvement in Operation Iraqi Mobile Public Affairs Freedom. (U.S. Army photo by PFC Ernest E. Sivia III) Detachment, Division Special Troops Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, gets a hug from NFL head coach Jeff Fisher of the Tennessee Titans at Camp Liberty, July 4. For Johnson, a native of East Orange, N.J., the moment was special—her younger brother, Kenny Britt, is a rookie wide receiver with the Titans. Fisher was at Camp Liberty visiting U.S. troops as part of the USO-sponsored NFL Coaches Tour. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Annmarie Daneker)

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Joseph Tague, with Charlie Battery, 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery Regiment, A technician with 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Company C, 172nd Division, looks into a darkened room during a Support Battalion, village clearing in Masowdy, in Diyala Province, sorts through insects Iraq, July 24. The village abandoned for sometime, caught in a light trap was previously filled with insurgents. (U.S. Air at Forward Operating Force photo by Staff Sergeant Ali E. Flisek) Base Kalsu, Iraq, July Freedom’s Focal Point 10.. After they are sorted, the sand flies and mosquitoes are placed into small vials to be sent to Baghdad for disease testing. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Bethany Little)

14 Coalition Chronicle August 2009 15 Joint information-sharing center Airborne medics establish in Diyala teach basic combat MND-N Public Affairs DIYALA, Iraq – Soldiers with 25th the security agreement. medic skills to Iraqi Infantry Division, keep information “It’s those hard dates [in the SA] that flowing and, at the same time, bring about change and growth in build relationships with their the (government of Iraq) and IA,” forces Story and photos by Pvt. Jared N. Gehmann 3rd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Iraqi counterparts at a new joint said Sandidge “One of the things operations center in Diyala. the COIC does is ensure that as the tourniquet on a severed events are held in small groups of Located at Forward Operating Base growth happens, things are getting arm, paratroopers taught one or two personnel to ensure each Lion, Soldiers with 2nd Battalion, done the right way, and people are their ISF counterparts Iraqi medic receives step-by-step 8th Field Artillery Regiment and communicating.” the basics of combat instruction on an individual level. their counterparts, the Iraqi Army’s One of the challenges the COIC came medical care. Ammar Nijeb, a NP medic who 18th Brigade, 5th Division, operate across when first setting up was the “We try to go slow participated in the training said that the Combined Operations and lack of communication between the and focus them on he learned a lot of new techniques Intelligence Cell, the latest joint cell and the IA. understanding why we during the event. Nijeb feels the concept developed by both Iraqi “We have to make sure we are always do each step of care,” training he received will better equip and U.S. forces. The new center is talking to them and making sure said Sgt. 1st Class Juan him for real combat operations in primarily devoted to keeping lines they are comfortable enough to talk Almonte, a senior medic Baghdad. of communication open between to us,” said Harrison. Sgt. 1st Class Juan Almonte, of New York assigned to the brigade’s “Each one of the NP medics had a the two units, as they continue to The COIC has found many ways to Pfc. Erik Thomas-Zewski takes City, shows a national police medic how to 2nd Battalion, 505th chance to get hands-on experience work together towards a common build relationships; sometimes it is a report from a coalition unit, while properly insert a needle in a patient during a Parachute Infantry during the training,” he said. “This purpose. as simple as sitting down and talking monitoring radio communications in combat medic training exercise, July 22 at Joint Security Station Loyalty, located in the 9 Nissan Regiment, serving as is the first time I have given a person Capt. Lucas Sandidge, officer- with their IA partners. the 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery district of eastern Baghdad. the primary instructor an IV, and I thought that was the in-charge of the COIC, said the “It’s like making friends. For Regiment’s area of operations in Diyala province. (U.S. Army photo by during the event. “This most interesting part of today.” cell’s mission is to rapidly report someone to fully trust you and tell Spc. Anthony Jones) was just basic trauma “It all went well and I am thankful significant activities, track all you everything, you need to sit ith Iraqi forces in the lead training, throwing on for this training,” added Nijeb. combined Iraqi Army and U.S. down with them and talk, even if it’s of security in Baghdad, bandages and giving intravenous forces movements and track IA simple things like cars or how their U.S. paratroopers trained therapy was the focus of today.” units operating without a U.S. families are doing,” Harrison said. Staff Sgt. Luceldic Harrison, the W A National Police medic with the 4th non-commissioned officer-in-charge of their partners on the importance and Almonte, a New York City native, partner within the battalion’s area of The Soldiers of the COIC continue NP Brigade, 1st NP Division practices the intelligence cell, and an Iraqi Army duties of a combat medic during a added that this is about the seventh applying a trauma wound dressing during operations. to keep the lines of communication soldier point to an Iraqi Army convoy on day-long training event, July 22 at time he has done training events like a training event July 22 at Joint Security The method the COIC uses is simple. open between the 18th Bde. and a map in the Combined Operation and Joint Security Station Loyalty, Iraq. this with the NP medics. Usually the Station Loyalty, located in the 9 Nissan Soldiers operate a tactical operations 2-8 FA, ensuring the Iraqi – U.S. Intelligence Cell office. (U.S. Army photo To ensure Iraqi Security Force district of eastern Baghdad. center, much like a battalion partnership continues to grow. by Spc. Anthony Jones) medics are able to assist injured headquarters. Using interpreters, personnel on the ground due to they feed all information they receive enemy action, combat medics of the to an almost identical IA TOC in the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd next room. Airborne Division. Multi-National “Our mission here is a partnership Division – Baghdad, held a series with the IA to track patrol and of training lanes for National Police missions between the Iraq Army and medics assigned to the 4th NP U.S. Army,” said Staff Sgt. Luceldic Brigade, 1st NP Division. Harrison, the non-commissioned The training exercise allowed officer-in-charge of the intelligence Iraqi medics to hone their skills by cell. “We receive the patrol tracker exposing them to several real-life from our units, then we sit down scenarios they may need to save the with the IA and discuss what they lives of injured comrades. are tracking and ensure we are Whether it be applying a pressure tracking the same missions.” dressing to a wounded leg, placing The cell was set up before June 30, a trauma dressing over an injured and was created in part to support abdomen or properly using a 16 Coalition Chronicle August 2009 17 Airmen Build Ties with Iraqi Families Detainees Graduate from Camp Cropper Art Course

Joint Task Force 134 Public Affairs

Airmen and Soldiers prepare to deliver goods to local Iraqi families, July 24, as part of the Sather Air Base Good Neighbor Program. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Johnny L. Saldivar) Story by Senior Airman Alyssa Miles AFCENT Baghdad Media Outreach Team

orty-five Airmen volunteered with half going door-to-door to drop difference in someone’s life.” to visit and distribute donated off packages while the rest stayed Bruce, from Bellefonte, Pa., Fitems to local families in behind to play with the children deployed from the 18th Logistics Baghdad, July 24, as part of the who were excitedly waiting for the Readiness Squadron, Kadena Air Sather Air Base Good Neighbor Airmen in a dusty compound. Base, Japan, says she gets personal Program. “The children love to see people satisfaction from volunteering. The program, which is sponsored come here,” said Bruce. “They “It’s a life-changing experience,” by Sather’s Rising Six, is made up always know we’re coming, and she said. “You get to come out and of volunteers who take a trip once a they’re waiting.” see a different part of the world month to distribute care packages The children quickly took to the -- see how it is to be secluded and to Iraqi families near Sather. The Airmen and included some in a not have everything you’re used to packages include items the Iraqi game of soccer that was already having at home.” CAMP CROPPER, Iraq – A group of 12 detainees up to the podium and spoke about the meaning of families may otherwise have a underway. Other Airmen were taken Stauber, who works as the graduated from the Remembrance II Theater the group-painted mural and about how the class had hard time getting, such as personal to a private area where they were 447th Air Expeditionary Group Internment Facility Detainee Art Program, July 15. opened his eyes to a new way of thinking. hygiene items, dry food, toys for taught games the children play from superintendent here and the 148th The program is one of many set in place to help the “We want to thank the teachers because they teach us children, snacks and treats. day-to-day. Fighter Wing command chief in detainees learn a trade or skill while working with that there is one country and all Iraqis (are) the same. According to Senior Airman While donated items and quality Duluth, says she volunteers because people who may be of different cultural backgrounds. We now know that there is no difference between Sunni Ashley Bruce, 447th Expeditionary time are beneficial to the Iraqi it’s a good chance to give back. As their final product, the members of the class and Shia,” he said. I am a Sunni and here is my friend, Logistics Squadron, more than families, Chief Master Sgt. Jodi “We should reach out to the painted a mural displaying the beauty that they saw in a Shia. We like to say we love this country and there is $20,000 worth of new and lightly Stauber, of Duluth, Minn., says the citizens around us and build Iraq. The mural is split into three parts; the northern no difference between Sunni, Shia and Kurds. We drink used items have been donated in Iraqis are not the only ones who gain those relationships,” she said. region, Baghdad and the south. Each sector displays the same water. Thanks to all who listen, and thanks to support of the program by way of from these visits. “It’s important to take the time to three historical or geographical landmarks. American Forces.” supporters from the United States, “It’s good for the Airmen and appreciate this community. I would “The mural shows how there are many different parts During the 30-day course, detainees are taught as well as Airmen and Soldiers inside Soldiers who come out to visit with encourage anyone to come and of Iraq but they are all one country,” said 1st Lt. Valerie techniques with straw-blowing watercolor design, the Victory Base Complex. them,” she said. “It’s an experience enjoy the time spent – it’s definitely Breunig, the information operations officer-in-charge, sponge painting, ice painting and many other unique During the most recent trip, the you will never forget. It really makes worthwhile.” 1-158th Transportation Company, 519th Battalion. design methods. volunteers broke into two groups you feel like you’re truly making a At the graduation ceremony, one detainee walked 18 Coalition Chronicle August 2009 19 British Troops reach End of mission in Iraq Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Attila S. Fazekas MNC-I Public Affairs embers and present arms, the Union Jack was lowered, Kelly of the and Craddock assumed their positions. The two officers, Mmulti- showing obvious respect, began to slowly role the flag in national, multi- preparation for casing. service team For their contributions to the Task Force, the soldiers “It has been a great known as Task received official recognition and awards. honor and privilege Force Troy Their departure from the Task Force and Iraq brought gathered at the British soldier’s varied emotions from pride to to bring our the 1st Calvary disappointment. skill sets Division’s “I am sad. I would have liked to stay to the end of to the fight.” Morale, Welfare my tour,” said British army Warrant Officer 2nd Class and Recreation Darren J. Hankin, of Taunton, Sommerset, England. Capt. Adrian R. Craddock Field House on “Obviously, with people leaving it is going to leave gaps. British Army/Task Force Troy Camp Liberty, Our withdrawal has been hasty and I feel we left the U.S. to say goodbye in an uncomfortable position needing replacements.” to their British Army comrades with a flag casing “I feel immensely proud, but it is tainted with ceremony, July 15. disappointment to be leaving before the end of my six- Task Force Troy, Multi-National Corps-Iraq’s counter month tour,” British Army Sgt. Peter J. Hunsperger, improvised explosive device team, is charged with Salisbury, England said. countering the IED threat posed to coalition forces by With those feelings in check, their colors cased and gathering and examining the evidence left by IEDs. an air of military professionalism about them, Craddock “Our whole mission is to exploit the evidence left on had one last statement to make to the Task Force. the battlefield,” Col. Patrick J. Kelly, Fort Carson, Colo., “Sirs, Ma’ams, ladies and gentlemen, this is the United commander of Task Force Troy said. “The Brits were Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Out!” very good at this and passed on their lessons learned in Northern Ireland.” “They have saved countless coalition lives,” he added. The departing British Soldiers felt honored to have been called upon. “It has been a great honor and privilege to bring our skill sets to the fight,” said British Army Capt. Adrian R. Craddock, Kineton, Warwickshire, England, the most senior ranking British officer attached to TF Troy. The unit was called to attention

Capt, Adrian R. Craddock, senior British Army officer attached to Task Force Troy and U.S. Army Col. Patrick J. Kelly, TF Troy commander, prepare the Union Jack for casing, July 15. The casing ceremony signifies the end of mission for the British military contingency assigned to the task force at Camp Victory, Iraq. 20 Coalition Chronicle In Memoriam Names of servicemembers who died between June 24 and July 31, 2009 while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom

Greater love hath no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

June 24 July 13 Spc. Casey L. Hills, 23 Chief Warrant Officer Rodney A. Jarvis, 34

June 25 July 16 Spc. Joshua L. Hazlewood, 22 Spc. Carlos E. Wilcox IV, 27 Spc. James D. Wertish, 20 June 28 Spc. Daniel P. Drevnick, 22 Staff Sgt. Timothy A. David, 28 July 19 June 29 Lance Cpl. Brandon T. Lara, 20 Sgt. 1st Class Edward C. Kramer, 39 Sgt. Roger L. Adams Jr., 36 July 24 Sgt. Juan C. Baldeosingh, 30 Spc. Herberth A. Berrios-Campos, 21 Spc. Robert L. Bittiker, 39 July 25 July 8 Staff Sgt. Johnny R. Polk, 39 Pvt. Lucas M. Bregg, 19

August 2009 21 U.S. Army boots hang from a wire over the “Sugar Shack,” in Maysan Province, Iraq, June 27, in Al Majar Al Kibir in Maysan Province, Iraq. The Combat Outpost Base had been the home to Bravo Company, 4th Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, attached to 2nd Squadron, 13th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division and is now manned by Iraqi Soldiers from the 41st Brigade in compliance with the June 30 Security Agreement. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Brendan Stephens)