Fleet of Abrams Arrive at Umm Qasr by Sgt

August 16, 2010 | Issue 29 Fleet of Abrams arrive at Umm Qasr By Sgt. Francis Horton 367th MPAD, USD-S PAO

UMM QASR – Iraqi Soldiers and Police have been training under the watchful eye of Coalition Forces to prepare them for the duty of protecting Iraq, but training can only take you so far. The Iraqi Secu- rity Forces recently took their next step toward self-reliance. “We’ve off-loaded the first batch of M1 (Abrams Battle Tanks)” said Andreaus Photo by Sgt. Francis Horton Elesky, a program manager for defense An M1 Abrams Battle Tank waits to be transported to FOB Hammer from the Umm Qasr port. contractor General Dynamics working with the Iraqi Training and Advisory per- ating Base Hammer, a joint U.S. and Iraqi armor units to fight on the move. sonnel at the Port of Umm Qasr. Army base southeast of Baghdad. U.S.- In the past, there has been little to no The M1 Abrams tank is a heavily ar- based American United Logistics, which maintenance management training on mored, highly mobile tank that entered partnered with an Iraqi transportation tanks. General Dynamics plans to change service in 1980. company, ensured the tanks were loaded this by teaching Iraqi soldiers how to per- Eleven tanks and one tank recovery ve- directly onto heavy equipment transport form general maintenance, Elesky said. hicle were delivered to an Umm Qasr port. trucks, said Matthew Berger, director of “The more sustained we make them, Iraqi flags adorned the turrets, alerting lo- logistics and transportation for AUL. the quicker U.S. troops can get out of the cal residents to the fact that the heavy fire- Once more tanks have been cleared country,” Elesky said. power being delivered was for their own for transportation, they will convoy to While U.S. Army is not involved in the government, Elesky said. FOB Hammer, guarded by an Iraqi secu- acquisition and movement of the tanks, Working with the U.S. and Iraqi gov- rity company, Threat Management Group. training exercises are already planned for ernments, General Dynamics has been in American security forces will not be pres- 2011 and beyond, Elesky said. the process of receiving, transporting and ent at any time, Berger said. “We’re helping them become a better- delivering the tanks to the Iraqis, Elesky The first iteration of training on the equipped and better-trained military,” said. The company will train the ISF on the tanks for Iraqis will take place in January. Elesky said. operation and maintenance of the tanks. The tanks are a major upgrade from the Delivery of the tanks is expected to be “Shipments will be coming in on a Russian, Yugoslavian and Chinese-made complete by August 2011. monthly basis,” Elesky said. Altogether, tanks the ISF is accustomed as the M1 For more from USD-S PAO, visit 140 M1 Abrams will roll to Forward Oper- Abrams is more versatile, allowing Iraqi www.facebook.com/1stInfantryDivision

An American journey, p. 6 NDNG aviators, p. 8 Around 1ID - CAB, p.11 COMMAND Danger Forward August 16, Issue 29 Danger Six sends

n previous versions of “Danger 6 Sends,” I highlighted comprehensive fitness Iand the resilience that comes from it. Comprehensive Fitness remains an important matter to me and to the rest of the chain of command. While fairly new as an approach, it is already showing effectiveness and we in US Division – South, and the First Infantry Division are committed to it. So, let’s go a bit further in this article. A resilient person can endure more hardship, and can recover from that hardship, sometimes quickly. You might think I mean physical resilience – and I do – but physical fitness is just one component of the comprehensive fitness we must have to be successful while deployed and afterward. To be truly and wholly resilient, we must exercise our minds, our spirits, our relationships, and our bodies to prepare us for Five Dimensions of Strength the challenges that are certain to come in a military life . . . or any other life, for that matter. Physical The Army’s Comprehensive Soldier Fitness program identifies five dimensions of Performing and excelling in physical ac- strength: physical, emotional, social, family, and spiritual. Think of them each as pillars tivities that require aerobic fitness, endur- holding you up. If one of the pillars weakens, you will be out of balance. If one or more ance, strength, healthy body composition weakens, there is also the potential for a collapse. and flexibility derived through exercise, In the Army we like to deal with measureable standards. Currently, there is no easy nutrition and training. scoring system for comprehensive fitness. But there are some descriptions that we can Emotional apply to ourselves and see how close we are to being “fit.” Take a look at the box to the Approaching life's challenges in a posi- right of this column and evaluate yourself according to each dimension of strength. Be tive, optimistic way by demonstrating self- honest with yourself – like we say when you are training your upper body for the push-up control, stamina and good character with portion of the PT test – “give it your best or you’re cheating yourself” . . . so don’t cheat your choices and actions. yourself when measuring your comprehensive fitness. For a more precise assessment, go Social to the Army Comprehensive Fitness web site at www.army.mil/csf and take the Global As- Developing and maintaining trusted, val- sessment Test. Once you’ve assessed your fitness, it’s time to get to work. ued relationships and friendships that are On COB Basra we will soon open a resiliency campus to help individuals “work out.” personally fulfilling and foster good com- The campus will have dedicated areas for each dimension of strength, with subject mat- munication including a comfortable ex- change of ideas, views, and experiences. ter experts, resources, and information to help you to improve your comprehensive fitness. And remember, exercise helps the strong get stronger just as it helps the weak get Family stronger – so no matter how you measure yourself, this work-out zone will help you. The Being part of a family unit that is safe, sup- Basra resiliency campus will be open to everyone in USD-S. I encourage leaders to allow portive and loving, and provides the re- their personnel to come here and take advantage of the facility for a few days, much like sources needed for all members to live in a healthy and secure environment. Soldiers travel to COB Adder to train on the rollover simulator. Not only will they get valuable training, but they can gain ideas to take back to their location. Spiritual This center is intended to concentrate the programs, the players and the place for all five Strengthening a set of beliefs, principles dimensions, but you don’t need a resiliency center to start working on your comprehensive or values that sustain a person beyond fitness. Talk to your unit Master Resilience Trainer and get started! Comprehensive fit- family, institutional, and societal sources of strength. ness will help you perform better, remain resilient, and grow stronger even in the face of adversity. That’s what being Army Strong is all about. Source: Comprehensive Soldier Fitness web site - www. army.mil/csf

Vincent K. Brooks Major General, U.S. Army Commanding

Page 2 Command August 16, Issue 29 Safety starts with Leadership By Joe Zelko USD-S Safety

oldiers who wear the chevron stripes of the noncommissioned officer on their chests represent a unique SArmy strength. Today’s NCO is the front-line trainer and role model for our Soldiers and the motivating force for cutting ac- cidental losses. The dedication of our NCOs is largely responsible for this past year’s success in accident prevention. “No one is more professional than I. I am a noncommissioned officer, a leader of Soldiers.” An ammunition platoon received an order to quickly move to another position. In their haste, they decided to skip the safety briefing. The NCOs failed to brief the convoy route, catch-up speed, and hazards of night movement. They also failed to ensure their Soldiers were using seat belts. In the confusion brought on by the rushed departure, one vehicle’s driver lost sight of the lead vehicle. His vehicle hit a guardrail and overturned, and three passengers suffered neck injuries. Is this an example of a leader of Soldiers? “I am proud of the Corps of Noncommissioned Officers and will at all times conduct myself so as to bring credit upon the Corps...” The speeding automobile ran off the road and slid sideways almost 200 feet. The car flipped twice and hit a tree, killing both occupants who weren’t wearing their seat belts. The drunk driver was an off-duty NCO. Is this an example of bringing credit upon the NCO Corps? “Competence is my watchword. My two basic responsibilities will always be uppermost in my mind—accomplishment of my mission and the welfare of my Soldiers.” As the number one cannoneer knelt in front of his howitzer’s breech to close the firing lock, the howitzer fired, striking him in the face. Was competence the watchword of this gun chief? “All Soldiers are entitled to outstanding leadership; I will provide that leadership.” As we came through the ranks, our NCOs taught us the meaning of discipline, leadership and standards. We must pass that knowledge along. Effective leaders identify hazards in night movements and take the proper steps to mitigate those hazards. Teaching and enforcing standards prevents young Soldiers from screwing up crew drills and injuring themselves or someone else. Disciplined Soldiers wear their seat belts. When was the last time you made an on-the-spot correction when a Soldier failed to wear his seat belt? Caring for Soldiers requires us to take the hard right over the easy wrong, especially once the duty day is over. Let’s be role models for our young Soldiers. They’re entitled to nothing less. Is the NCO Creed our standard or just another nice thought? I prefer to think our NCOs take the creed seriously and possess a keen desire to make a positive contribution to their units and the entire Army. Every hour of every day, an NCO somewhere in the world enforces a standard, provides leadership, or instills discipline in a Soldier that might prevent a future accident. These NCOs exemplify our creed and keep our Soldiers safe. Let’s all remember, when it comes to safety: “I will not forget, nor will I allow my comrades to forget, that we are professionals, noncommissioned officers, leaders!” NCOs Lead the Way... Safely! This week in Army history This week in Big Red One history August 19, 1917 – Brig. Gen Robert Bullard takes command of the 2nd Infantry Brigade, 1st Infantry Divi- sion during World War I. Bullard would go on to command the entire ‘Big Red One,’ and during his tenure, he would oversee the Battle of Cantigny, the first American victory of WWI where the 28th Infantry Regi- ment earned its moniker, “Black Lions of Cantigny.” This week in OIF history August 19, 2009 – The 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division defends Baghdad’s Green Zone on a day that comes to be known as “Bloody Wednesday.” The coordinated bombing of the finance ministry and the foreign ministry with rocket attacks in the Green Zone ultimately result in 101 dead and over 560 wounded. This week in 3rd Infantry Division history The 3rd Infantry Division Band was constituted August 20, 1943. The band would go on to participate in campaigns in Tunisia, Sicily, Naples-Foggia, Anzio, Rome-Arno, Southern France, Rhineland, Ardennes- Alsace, and Central Europe during World War II.

Page 3 Danger Forward August 16, Issue 29 Ramadan marks tradition, change By Sgt. Samuel Soza 367th MPAD, USD-S PAO

COB BASRA – Ramadan began this year on the evening of August 10 in Iraq and will conclude on September 9. The holy month is the ninth month on the Islamic lunar calendar, and according to Muslim tradition, God gave the first revelations of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel, an event specifically celebrated on a holy night called Laylat al-Qadr – or the “Night of Decree or Measures.” Though not a native tradition, the U.S. Forces’ observance of the event has become a norm. Leaders in United States Division-South, for example, have gained specific knowledge about Ramadan, and observe that such insight has led to a stronger partnership with Iraqi counterparts.

“As one of the five pillars of Islam, Photo by Spc. Katrina Faulkner-Brown fasting – or sawm in Arabic – is a means Eastern Baghdad citizens share an Iftar meal, during which Muslims break their daily fasts in of learning self-control and becomes a the holy month of Ramadan, in the Rusafa District of eastern Baghdad, Sept. 15, 2008. Retired Iraqi Army Staff Maj. Gen. Falah Hassan said Americans have come a long way in their under- way for those practicing the Islamic faith standing of the holy month since he began working with U.S. forces in 2002. to focus beyond the preoccupation of sat- isfying their bodily needs during daylight Iraqi Army Staff Maj. Gen. Falah Hassan. During his first Ramadan in late No- hours,” said Brig. Gen. Randal Dragon, Its purpose is to practice a godly reliance vember 2002, Falah would take his daily 1st Infantry Division deputy commanding and reflection on many spiritual values in- iftar in a makeshift chow-hall inside a officer for support. cluding patience and humility. hangar. When the time came, the evening 1st Inf. Div. conducts operations within Each day during Ramadan, a Muslim meal contained pork which is forbidden to the nine provinces that make up United will not eat from sun-up to sunset. Muslims. States Division–South and Dragon, as “Ramadan truly is a time dedicated to “They did not have any food that we well as other senior leaders, will be meet- prayer, fasting and charity and to coming could eat,” he said. ing with various Iraqi leaders throughout closer to Allah,” he said. Even during the interview, a coworker the month to observe the holiday. Falah, who has worked with U.S. forces made an unintentional mistake. Fasting is the biggest aspect of Ra- as a security advisor since 2002, is mark- madan and very challenging, said retired ing his eighth time celebrating with them. See RAMADAN, page 5

Commanding General Command Sergeant Major Major General Command Sergeant Major ANGER ORWARD Vincent K. Brooks Jim Champagne D F

PAO Danger Forward Contributing Units 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. 1st Inf. Div. PAO: Lt. Col. Matthew Hackathorn Print NCOIC: Staff Sgt. Chris Carney Editor: Staff Sgt. Nathan Smith 12th CAB Command Info OIC: Maj. Mark E. Martin Layout: Spc. Samantha Johnson Command Info NCOIC: 1st Sgt. David Bennett 3rd HBCT, 3rd Inf. Div. Staff Writers: Sgt. Francis Horton, Sgt. Cody 367th MPAD Email: [email protected] Harding, Sgt. Benjamin Kibbey, Spc. Sam Soza, Phone: (Iraqna) (770)-263-9379. Sgt. Jason Kemp

Page 4 CIVIL CAPACITY Danger Forward August 16, Issue 29 New courthouse in Dhi Qar RAMADAN, from page 4 By Capt. Tony Massari courtroom across town [that] has too many “The important thing [about fasting] is 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. cases for them to handle.” to be very honest to God and yourself,” The 3rd BCT supports local, PRT- Falah said but was interrupted as a female COB ADDER – The establishment of sponsored courses in Nasiriyah. The coworker came by and greeted him with Rule of Law in Iraq has taken center stage training brings lawyers, judges and police a hug. throughout the nation as it sees a new officers together to discuss evidence col- “I am fasting,” he protested, referring dawn approaching for democracy. lection, criminal investigation, weapons to his intent to abstain from physical con- Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, simulation training, codes of ethics, and tact with females. 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. is aiding this quest proper evidence handling. Moments later, however, Falah said for justice by helping to increase the lo- “They are helping bring Iraqis who that despite the occasional occurrence he cal government’s rule-of-law capacity in work in the justice sector together at the has seen a big shift in the curiosity and Iraq’s Dhi Qar Province. Mittica Training Center. We recently had a knowledge of U.S. personnel. In coordination with the Dhi Qar Pro- seminar where judges helped police inves- “Many people stop and ask ‘Is a Mus- vincial Reconstruction Team, the Soldiers tigators learn how to successfully collect lim allowed to eat? To drink?’” he said. have been supervising the construction of evidence and procedurally use that evi- “This is good because it says they are will- a courthouse in Al Fajir that the Iraqi Gov- dence in criminal prosecutions,” said Maj. ing to be educated and find out the chal- ernment began in 2009 but could not com- Dan McAuliffe, deputy brigade judge lenges [of Ramadan].” plete the project due to a lack of funds. advocate and rule-of-law coordinator for Some have even partaken in the fasting The courthouse is intended to allevi- Dhi Qar and Muthanna and a Denver na- with him for a little while, Falah said. ate a backlog at other courts in the area. tive serving with the 1st Army Training Dragon said the holiday’s place in the The Dhi Qar PRT turned to the U.S. Army, Support Division-West. U.S. mission in Iraq is valuable in its uni- who funded the remainder of the construc- In another course, members of the 3rd fying and spiritual qualities, especially as tion under the Commander’s Emergency BCT taught Iraqi Security Force person- U.S. forces draw closer to departing the Response Fund Program. nel the proper way to collect evidence country. Over the last four months, troops have from explosive devices. “In my time here, I have come to ap- worked intensely to supervise the construc- “There are a lot of great things going preciate it as a month of renewal and con- tion of the courthouse, and they saw their on in Dhi Qar Province right now,” said nection with Allah, much more than just a efforts pay off as the contractor placed the Sgt. William Nelson, armor crewman holiday period,” he said, “It is a time when finishing touches on the building. from Phoenix partnered with the Dhi Qar our Islamic brothers and sisters intensely “The judges are ready and willing to PRT. “It’s a wonderful feeling to know worship, a time when they focus on puri- accept the courthouse,” said Staff Sgt. that I’m involved in helping Iraq prepare fying behavior, a time when they do good Kenneth Sergeant, a platoon sergeant for its future.” deeds.” from Colorado Springs, Colo. “Currently, For more from 3rd BCT, visit Approximately 97 percent of Iraq’s criminal trials are being held in a rundown www.facebook.com/3bct4id population is Muslim, and the holiday affords an opportunity for the people to come together despite any deep divisions within society, said Falah. “Ramadan is a very good occasion to put Iraq into unity and to support the freedom [to celebrate it],” he said.

For more from USD-S PAO, visit www.facebook.com/1stinfantrydivision

Photo by Capt. Tony Massari Soldiers from HHT, 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. and Iraqi Police examine the newly constructed courthouse in Al Fajir.

Page 5 TROOPS IN FOCUS Danger Forward August 16, Issue 29 A Memorable American Journey

By Sgt. David Dasilma 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt.

COB ADDER – The scene took place in Baghdad on the Fourth of July. His tem- perature was high, his pulse was throb- bing, and he felt faint. “Something was filling up inside me,” said Pfc. Hyoung Oh. “I thought my heart was going to explode.” The Soldier, a supply clerk in Head- quarters and Headquarters Troop, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, an Incheon, South Korea, native, wondered how he had found himself in this position. Oh knew he was going to become a citizen that day, but he had no idea the ceremony would be presided over by the United States Vice President. “[VP Joe Biden] really surprised us. He made it a day I will never forget,” Oh said. “I was on cloud nine.” Photo by Staff Sgt. Guadalupe Deanda The elation Oh felt at his naturalization Pfc. Hyoung Oh, supply specialist with HHT, 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt., 3rd BCT, takes a photo with Gen. Raymond Odierno, commanding general of USF-I, U.S. Vice President Joe Biden and ceremony was countered by the intense wife, Dr. Jill Biden, after taking the oath to be a U.S. citizen at Al Faw Palace July 4. pressure he felt to get this once-in-a-lifetime event right. It was a simple process: citizen, applied to sponsor the Oh family. resident alien status and, after graduat- Due to the huge backlog of cases and the ing from high school, went full-time into immediacy of the Ohs situation, they took the Korean restaurant business. After ten matters into their own hands. At 14 years years of serving bulgogi and kimchi, Oh old, the family attempted to illegally cross decided he wanted to serve people in a “I was on the border into the United States from different capacity. In 2009, Oh, who was Mexico, where his family had migrated. then the restaurant manager, enlisted in cloud nine.” Oh and his mother were caught by San the Army. Diego border authorities, while his father Several days prior to his current de- and sister made it into the U.S. Pfc. Hyoung Oh ployment to Iraq, Oh decided he wanted Supply Clerk, 4th Sqdn. 10th Cav. Regt. “I remember my mother, sister and I to serve a country he could call his own, climbing mountains with Mexicans for an rather than just a place he was living in. entire day,” Oh said. Upon making this decision, he took full Oh and his mother found themselves at advantage of a Fort Carson, Colo., Army walk to the established mark, shake right, a San Diego police station to be investi- Community Service program designed to receive left, turn, smile, wait for the gated. Since laws were less stringent and assist Soldiers and Families with the im- “click,” and repeat. This only appeared the border situation less tense than today, migration process. simple to those in attendance. The process Oh and his mother were released to their Executive Order 13269 applications of becoming an American had been any- cousins, who took them to Los Angeles to from active duty service members are ex- thing but simple. link up with Oh’s father who had already pedited and Oh’s application took slightly When Oh was a child living in Seoul, arrived. over three months to be approved. his parents decided to relocate to the A few years after his entry into the For more from 3rd BCT, visit United States. His uncle, already a U.S. United States, Oh received permanent www.facebook.com/3bct4id

Page 6 Troops in Focus August 16, Issue 29 Constructing Fiddler’s Green

By Sgt. David Dasilma Photo by Sgt. David Dasilma 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. Sgt. Guy Monighetti, a Suf- field, Conn., native serving COB ADDER – To the average cavalry as the assistant project manager for 4th Sqdn., trooper, “Fiddler’s Green” is a legendary 10th Cav. Regt., 3rd BCT, afterlife of perpetual mirth, a fiddle that 4th Inf. Div., exhibits his never stops playing, and dancers who nev- master carpentry skills. er tire. Its origins are obscure, but some answers point to the Greek myth of Ely- sian Fields. To Task Force Blackjack, 4th Squad- ron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fid- dler’s Green is no myth, and its origins are well known. Fiddler’s Green is a morale, welfare and recreation facility on Con- playing games, and watching movies. “I taught the guys basic carpentry tingency Operating Base Adder where Outside, Soldiers can use an area designed skills,” Monighetti said. “Stuff like how Soldiers go to play before retiring for the for CrossFit workouts or get on the inter- to use the tools safely, how to cut straight day. net or phone. lines, and how to properly utilize a ham- The facility is the brainchild of Thorn- “It’s a great place to get to know some mer.” ton, W.V., native, 1st Sgt. Timothy Bol- of the guys. I get to hang out with them, The construction and installation of yard, Headquarters and Headquarters work out, and chill,” said Pfc. Billy Ray equipment took one week to complete. Troop, 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. senior Holder, Jr., a Centerville, Tenn., native The only things left were finding a power noncommissioned officer, and was built serving with the TF Blackjack protective source and an original name. by Sgt. Guy Monighetti, assistant project service detail. The name came as naturally to the manager of 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. and Before Fiddler’s Green became a hap- troopers as a mounted patrol. Monighetti Suffield, Conn., native. py refuge for Soldiers, it was a repository and his trade-school apprentices created a “I’ve heard great things from various for broken equipment and trash. Boylard sign for the doorway, in traditional red and people, mainly Soldiers, who enjoy the and Monighetti saw the building as an op- white Cavalry fashion. When it came time fact they don’t have to go clear across portunity. to etch a name into the wood, Monighetti post to use an MWR. Soldiers can stop by With some Soldiers’ help, the building asked for suggestions. before or after a mission and enjoy a few was cleared out, painted, and ready for “The guys started shouting out [some minutes of games,” Bolyard said. modification within a week. The job was pretty choice titles] due to how hot it was At Fiddler’s Green, located in Camp too big for a single person so Monighetti that day and how much work the project Dracula, Soldiers relieve physical and used it as an opportunity to teach Soldiers was requiring. Some said it wasn’t quite mental stress by reading, working out, some new skills. hell, but close,” said Monighetti. This description of that day’s circum- stances is actually the exact description of “Fiddler’s Green” in the Cavalrymen’s Poem. Without hesitation, Monighetti de- clared, “Fiddler’s Green it is.” Soldiers who choose to dismount at Fiddler’s Green discover that, while there are no fiddlers or dancers, they can have a good time in the facility. “From a leadership perspective, I just want Soldiers to enjoy their time here the best they can. I think having an MWR [nearby] helps,” Bolyard said. Photo by Sgt. David Dasilma A raw building waits to be transformed into Fiddler’s For more from 3rd BCT, visit Green, the TF Blackjack MWR facility on COB Adder. www.facebook.com/3bct4id

Page 7 Troops in Focus August 16, Issue 29 Experience gained in Iraq will help North Dakota Aviation in the Future

By Sgt. 1st Class Derek Heck C-2/285th Assault Helicopter Battalion

BASRA – While members of the North Dakota National Guard’s Company C, 2/285th Assault Helicopter Battalion are deployed to Iraq, they are gaining valuable experiences that will last them a lifetime. “Charlie Company has had one the most demanding flying mission in all of Iraq,” said Capt. Doug Larson, unit commander. Charlie Company has the Command Aviation Company mission, which handles almost all of the VIP missions south of Baghdad. The soldiers work hard to meet Photo by Sgt. Codie Suhr the mission and serve their customers, de- Spc. Lucas Larson, Lamoure, N.D., pauses while trouble shooting the AN/APR-39 Radar Warn- spite the challenges like the ever-changing ing Receiver in the avionics compartment of a Black Hawk helicopter in Basra. itineraries, the extreme heat (more than 120 degrees for the past month), high hu- major of the Army, and numerous Moral, chief averages 75-100 flight hours per year midity, extreme winds (sustained winds of Welfare and Recreation stage acts includ- in North Dakota. On the average, the flight 40 mph on various days) and long days. ing country music singer Kelly Pickler and crews are getting 350-500 flight hours on “Charlie Company has been at full the 1980s rockers band “Bad Company”. this deployment. That equals roughly four throttle since the beginning weeks of our Members have also had the oppor- years worth of experience for a typical deployment here in Iraq. All of our sol- tunity to fly and maintain both “A” and pilot and roughly five years worth of ex- diers have been putting their best foot for- “L” model UH-60 Black Hawk helicop- perience for a crew chief when compared ward since day one,” said 1st Sgt. Daniel ters. N.D. Soldiers are familiar with the to home. The enlisted members have also Marquart, Charlie Company’s senior en- “A” model Black Hawk which is the gained many years worth of valuable listed member. “I could not be more proud model that can be seen flying all over the maintenance experience. of our soldiers and the tasks they are doing state. The UH-60 “L” model is a slightly “The experience gained here in Iraq here.” more powerful, heavier lifting version of will definitely improve the North Dakota The unit is frequently tasked directly at the Black Hawk. Along with flying dual Army National Guard aviation program.” the division level and the division they an- model helicopters, the unit also conducts Larson added. swer to is the 1st Infantry Division, nick- missions with multi-service organizations With the mission’s high profile and de- named the “Big Red One”. such as the U.S. Navy and the Iraqi army. manding customers along with the heat An air mission request officer, 1st Lt. These missions have included air assaults, and frequent bad weather, the soldiers of Scott Dickmeyer, said, “Every single sol- air transport, Medical Evacuation backup, Charlie Company are getting the most out dier plays an integral part in the success as well as assisting with Iraqi army train- of every mission they fly. The crews will of the mission. The missions we are doing ing. tell you the heat, dust, long hours, and de- are high profile and with all the soldiers Charlie Company just reached the manding timelines will continually keep doing their best, we all win together.” 4,300 flight hour mark in their deployment you at the top of your game. After all, The unit’s most frequent and important and they may reach 5,000 hours before the Charlie Company admits to serving the mission is the transportation of the Big tour ends. In comparison, the unit is al- best customers in Southern Iraq. Red One’s senior officers anywhere and located just 1,000 flight hours per year in The 47 soldiers of Charlie Company everywhere in southern Iraq. Addition- North Dakota to accomplish their week- mobilized in Oct. 2009 for their yearlong ally, Charlie Company has been tasked end drills, annual training, maintenance, mission to Iraq. with safely transporting officials such as and AFTP’s (Additional Flight Training the Deputy Secretary of State, command- Periods). The typical aviator averages For more from the ND National Guard, visit ing general of the Iraqi army, the sergeant 100-125 flight hours and the typical crew www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil

Page 8 Troops in Focus August 16, Issue 29 Soldiers return home to fulfill mission

By Sgt. Cody Harding 1st Inf. Div., USD-S PAO

COB BASRA – For the Soldiers of Divi- sion Headquarters and Headquarters Bat- talion, 1st Infantry Division, the opinion on their return to the United States after seven months in Iraq is almost unani- mous. “Fabulous, fabulous, fabulous,” said 1st Lt. Trudy Powelson, a Seymour, Wis., native. “Awesome,” said Staff Sgt. Melissa Applebee, an Abilene, Kan., resident. “I can’t wait, because the first thing I’m going to do is grab my little girl and not let her go,” said Evelyn Hardy, a Los Angeles native. Photo by Sgt. Cody Harding “I’m pretty excited, looking forward to Maj. Gen. Vincent Brooks, the 1st Inf. Div. commanding general, addresses redeploying Sol- diers at the COB Basra Town Hall Aug. 8. it,” said Sgt. Joshua Read, a Lincoln, Ill., native. awards were presented he commended the Brooks, with Lt. Col. Mark Childs, the These Soldiers, part of the Responsible Soldiers for a job well done in Iraq, from DHHB commander, and Sgt. Maj. Mat- Drawdown of Forces from Iraq, were hon- organizing the unit to success in opera- thew Cloyd, the acting division command ored for their service during an awards tions to helping the Iraqi forces secure the sergeant major, awarded 19 Bronze Stars ceremony Aug. 6. The Soldiers will be re- national elections last March. and 66 Army Commendation medals to turning to Fort Riley, Kan., in the coming “It’s no small challenge to get the unit DHHB Soldiers. week having worked on COB Basra since from arrival, transition of authority to 30 First Sgt. Brian Safewright, the senior the 1st Inf. Div. took control of United days later, the historic elections,” Brooks noncommissioned officer of Operations States Division-South in February. said. “Maintaining a stable environment Company, DHHB, said the advise and as- The ceremony was presided over by in southern Iraq, each one of you contrib- sist mission continues, despite these Sol- Maj. Gen. Vincent K. Brooks, the 1st Inf. uting in your own way, and every person’s diers’ departure. Div. commanding general. Before the contributions counted.” “I don’t see it changing a whole lot,” said Safewright, a Draper, Va., native. “We have to sit back and watch to see how the Iraqis deal with the change-over, see if they can take hold of the responsibility of leading their own country. We’ve just got to help them in any way we can.” Brooks said even though the Soldiers’ mission in Iraq is complete, they have work ahead of them, starting with reinte- gration into Fort Riley. “When you get back, take your time,” Brooks said. “Be patient with yourself, be patient with those around you and those that love you and those you care about, and get reconnected and reintegrated with that part of the world” Safewright had one piece of advice for the redeploying troops. Photo by Sgt. Cody Harding Maj. Gen. Vincent Brooks, the 1st Inf. Div. commanding general, places the Army Commenda- “Stay out of trouble.” tion Medal on Sgt. Joshua Read, a fire support sergeant with the 1st Inf. Div., during an awards For more from USD-S PAO, visit ceremony at the COB Basra Town Hall Aug. 8. www.facebook.com/1stInfantryDivision

Page 9 Troops in Focus August 16, Issue 29 Black Hawk Soldiers witness positive change in Iraq

By Spc. David Dyer 3rd Sqdn., 1st Cav. Regt., 3rd HCT, 3rd Inf. Div.

COB DELTA – Members of the Com- mand Security Detachment of 3rd Squad- ron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Divi- sion operate as the eyes and ears of their commander on the battlefield. During the Napoleonic Wars, Lord Wellington handpicked a special group of Soldiers who were expert marksmen and renowned warriors to serve as his person- al bodyguards. These men were known as “chosen men.” The troopers who are a part of the Black Hawk Regiment’s detachment, known as CSD, are also chosen for their unique skills. “CSD is a natural evolution of the command crews in order to perform missions in a (counterinsurgency) environment,” Photo by Spc. David Dyer said Staff Sgt. Stephen Marvier, the 3rd Sgt. Dannie Cox (left), Staff Sgt. Stephen Lee Hansen (bottom center), and Sgt. Ryan Tomich, Sqdn., 1st Cav. Regt. noncommissioned members of the 3rd Sqdn., 1st Cav. Regt., 3rd HBCT, 3rd Inf. Div.’s command security detach- officer in charge from San Luis Obispo, ment, pose for a photo with an Iraqi Army Soldier in Al Kut December 2009. Calif. , “I think that 10 years ago there was not a demand for CSD because com- is doing here.” stand alone as a people and a country.” manders primarily stayed with the troops Smith said working on the CSD has Pfc. Stephen Lee Hansen, the CSD all of the time. Things were very linear. As given him the opportunity to see the prog- team mechanic from Juneau, Alaska, said we have adapted to a COIN environment, ress made by the U.S. and Iraqi forces. he appreciates the opportunities that come it became a necessity for commanders to “It is good to see the community with being on the detachment. get out in order to perform their jobs.” change; I have seen a lot of the things that “I feel like we have done some good Marvier said the need arose for a dedi- we taught the (Iraqi Security Forces) last things. I get to interact with a lot of Iraqis cated detachment to aid and secure lead- deployment being put to use,” Smith said. at the places we go while escorting the ers while they accomplished these tasks “I see Iraqis in control of their streets and commander,” Hansen said. “I have had without interfering with line units’ mis- see the pride that they now take in rebuild- the opportunity to share in the food and sions. The CSD command crew structure ing their communities. That is what has the culture and got to know a lot of our has been augmented so they can operate made being a member of CSD special for counterparts as people. Seeing all of the independently, allowing the commander me. kids come running out of nowhere to smil- to function independently without draw- “I have had a greater opportunity to see ing and waving makes it clear to me that ing upon troop resources. these sorts of things as a member of CSD we are making a difference and the people A CSD member, Sgt. David Smith of as opposed to being in the line. Being a support us.” Houston said the detachment is a group of witness to these things has proven to be a “We have worked really hard to give Soldiers that train in security operations to solid learning experience for me.” them a hand getting back on their feet protect the chain of command, specifically The advise and assist focus of the CSD and it makes me feel really good to see it the squadron commander. CSD Soldiers members is evident at even the lowest lev- working.” also have advanced training in private se- els. curity operations. “I am one of the newer additions to the “It is a big change from the line experi- CSD. When I first deployed, I thought that ence; we don’t get a lot of ‘hooah’ mis- I was going to be shooting people,” said sions,” Smith said. “We are afforded a lot Johnstown, Pa., native Pfc. Tyrell Harris. of opportunities to interact with our Iraqi “Now I understand that isn’t what this is counterparts. We get to set a good exam- all about. It is all about helping people. For more from 3rd HBCT, visit ple and put a good face on what our nation We are assisting (Iraqis) in their efforts to www.facebook.com/3hbct3id

Page 10 Around 1ID Danger Forward August 16, Issue 29 Chinook crews take on Iraq's heavy work

Spc. Roland A Hale 1stCAB PAO

BAGHDAD – The 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 1st Aviation Regiment, an all-in-one aviation unit from Fort Riley, Kans., deployed this March to Camp Taji, Iraq. The unit is one of the Army's last active-duty aviation battalions to deploy to Operation Iraqi Freedom and is playing a key-role in the reduction of U.S. forces this summer. As the Army draws down in Iraq, no- body takes the brunt of the logistical mon- ster more than this battalion's aviators. Three hours before take-off July 7, one of the battalion's crews gathered to prepare their aircraft for a night of punishment. Photo by Spc. Roland Hale For many of the crew it was their seventh A Chinook crew chief sits on mission that week – in just four months the ramp of his bird. their unit moved over one million pounds of cargo. On this mission they would con- tribute 17,000 pounds to that total. flash that no one could identify. The Sol- tion entails primarily administrative work, Their ride is the Chinook, the Army's diers remember a much more violent time Thomson has crewed about a dozen mis- 13 ton, 3,750 horse power work-horse. in Iraq – when air assaults were nearly as sions this deployment, he said. It is the largest and fastest in the Army's common as supply runs and every "mis- Thomson added that at a senior level arsenal and can carry 28,000 pounds of sion complete" felt like an answered it's easy to forget what the troops are do- cargo, 33 troops or 24 medical litters. In prayer. But now, Cabe said, the Chinooks ing daily. Crewing flights is the best way addition to two pilots, the massive heli- are making their living with heavy lifting. to keep in touch with their experiences copter has a crew of three enlisted crew- The Chinook uses three hooks on its and needs, he said. All but one of the crew chiefs, whose duties range from securing fuselage to carry cargo, or sling-loads. On onboard had flown with Thomson at least cargo to directing the pilots through preci- this night, Cabe guided the pilots to a hov- once before. sion maneuvers. er above a 17,000 pound armored-truck, "With the responsible draw-down of After a briefing and a check of the air- which ground crews attached to two of the forces in Iraq and a limited number of craft's systems, the crew set out for their Chinook's hooks. Cabe then laid down to aviation assets available, these guys are first stop of the night. Under the cover of monitor the load through a hatch in the flying day-in and day-out," said Thomson. darkness, the crew took the bird to several aircraft's floor. The Chinook flew natu- "It's not how many times or how many stops around Baghdad, shuttling passen- rally with the added weight, but when the missions they fly, but rather the contri- gers and equipment between bases. The load swayed beneath it, the oscillations bution they're making by moving people crew welcomed the cooled night air, as the felt like a tug-of-war between the aircraft's around." aircraft often serves as an unintentional twin engines and the truck. The pilot's cal- The missions will increase as the draw sauna during the mid-day Iraqi heat. culations indicated their load pushed the down progresses, meaning more long "Ninety-percent of the time we're like aircraft to within a thousand pounds of its hours for crews like this. The Army is a bus flying around Baghdad," said Spc. maximum weight. scheduled to reduce the number of troops Shad Cabe, a Chinook crew-chief on the Also special to the mission was the serving in Iraq from 82,000 to 50,000 by flight, "but sometimes it can get -excit presence of Command Sgt. Maj. Jim Sept. 1. Their battalion alone moved 1,200 ing." Thomson, the senior noncommissioned people that night. During the mission, the crew spotted officer of the Combat Aviation Brigade, For more from 1st CAB, visit two bursts of tracer fire and an explosive 1st Inf. Div. Even though his senior posi- www.facebook.com/demonbrigade

Page 11 ON THE HOMEFRONT Danger Forward August 16, Issue 29 Fishermen up in arms against proposed Alaska Pebble Mine By Kim Murphy Construction of the mine would bring an of something this size and this type that Los Angeles Times unprecedented level of industrial develop- hasn't," said Lindsey Bloom, 30, a commer- ment to a region known until now for its cial salmon fisherwoman from Juneau. DILLINGHAM, Alaska - It is an unfor- majestic solitude. It would require an 86- "I don't have problems with mining in tunate coincidence of geography that this mile road and miles of pipelines straddling Alaska in general," said Katherine Carscal- lush region of wild rivers, grassy tundra salmon streams, a deepwater port in Cook len, a third-generation fisherman from and windy sea is home to two competing Inlet, a power plant capable of generating Dillingham. "But Pebble isn't really some- treasures of almost unimaginable value: the up to 300 megawatts of electricity and 200 thing you can compare to the rest. It's unbe- world's largest sockeye salmon run, sup- miles of power transmission lines. lievably huge. All the rest of the mines in porting a fishery worth $440 million a year; Pebble Ltd. Partnership has withdrawn Alaska could fit inside Pebble." and in the hills behind it, a massive deposit the 2006 permit applications that originally Though polls show 80 percent of Bristol of copper, molybdemum and gold worth at outlined the project and company officials Bay residents opposed to the mine, many least $300 billion. say they no longer know the scope of what residents of the native Alaskan villages As Pebble Ltd. Partnership prepares to they will propose. closest to the Pebble site, on the shores of submit its permit application outlining what "One of our core operating principles is Lake Iliamna, have broken ranks with the kind of mine it wants to build by late this to be able to demonstrate coexistence with fishing towns along Bristol Bay and elected year or early next, Bristol Bay fishermen the fishery. It's not going to be one indus- to remain neutral until mine operators con- are fighting a fierce advance assault, hoping try at the expense of another," said Mike duct their studies and make a specific pro- to convince government decision-makers Heatwole, spokesman for the partnership, posal. and the public that poisonous mine drain- a 50-50 venture between London-based They admit they are lured by the prom- age and some of the world's last pristine global mining company Anglo American ise of 1,000 skilled, high-wage jobs over salmon streams are a combination too risky and Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. of the 30-year life of the mine, 2,000 addition- to contemplate. Canada. al jobs during construction, and hundreds "The location could not possibly be The state Legislature has appropriated of millions of dollars in annual operating worse on the face of the Earth," said former $750,000 for a full scientific review of the expenditures. state Senate President Rick Halford, a Re- project's potential impacts on Bristol Bay, "Commercial fishing isn't sustaining and publican from the Bristol Bay region. "This with a series of independent science pan- supporting our communities. We're basi- is a place of incredible value. It's going to els scheduled to begin public meetings in cally dying up here," said Lisa Reimers, be probably the biggest environmental re- December. chief executive of the Iliamna Development source fight of our lifetime." But at last week's meeting with the EPA, Corp., a native-owned venture at Iliamna Last week, Environmental Protection many local residents said they fear the which has already won some work during Agency administrator Lisa Jackson met meetings are aimed at railroading approval Pebble's exploratory operations. with dozens of mine opponents at Dilling- for the mine. The village lies just 15 miles from the ham High School, where tribal leaders and It would lie near the headwaters of the mine site, and Reimers said she and other commercial fishermen began a push to have Kvichak and Nushagak rivers and just north village leaders conducted their own re- the EPA wield its veto authority. of the 1,000-square-mile Lake Iliamna, search, which convinced them that healthy For many fishermen here, it is incon- nursery of many of the sockeye salmon. fisheries and mining can coexist. ceivable that an industrial-scale mine that Here in Dillingham and other communi- "We're not pro-Pebble. We're neutral. could produce 8 billion tons of waste is be- ties along the bay, many fishermen fear that We're trying to be open-minded about ev- ing contemplated in an area home to rare, even a small amount of toxic copper sulfide erything in our economy and figure out healthy runs of all five species of salmon. generated when copper is mined - leached how our young people are going to sup- Interior Secretary Ken Salazar earlier this through the porous rock or leaked from a port themselves," Reimers said. "Of course year called the area "simply too special to broken pipe - could be fatal to the fish that we care about the environment. This is our drill" and placed it off-limits to offshore oil are their livelihood. home." and gas development. "Every other mine of this size, this type, "It is a national treasure that we must near water, has contaminated the water. Alaska is the hometown of Pfc. Stephen Lee protect," Salazar said. There is not one example they can give us Hansen, who is featured in the story on p. 11.

Page 12 Morale Call Danger Forward August 16, Issue 29

she would, and now then I walk in the But when I read this the first thing that room it smells like perfume and fritos. I came to my mind, well after the Homer Basra honestly believe that it is coming down Simpson reference, was that it is a shame to the point where it is the rug that goes that two adult women are not able to communicate better. Is it really that big of a deal or me. How do I handle this so that she Betty for you to say that the smell is bothering does not get embarrassed and I do not you? You keep saying you don’t want to em- hurt her feelings, but can enjoy the air barrass her or hurt her feelings. I mean geez? in my room? –Signed, Choking in my Chu We’re in a combat zone here dealing with a Says lot more stressful situations than a stinking carpet…I’d think you two gals could learn Dear Choking, to not sweat the small stuff. Dear Basra Betty, When reading this several images come to Now, I’m not saying that horrid aroma I have this roommate and she is such mind. First, in my head I keep hearing in my of all that salty, crunchy, toasted corn chip best Homer Simpson impression the words a nice girl. Almost too nice, and that goodness should be yours to just deal with, “mmmmm Fritos” and seeing the drool out but what I am saying is that you two Soldiers makes it very hard for me to say things of the corner of Homer’s mouth. But I am should be adult enough to address these types to her that could hurt her feelings. My seriously trying to shake that thought so that of issues. I mean how are you supposed to problem is this…she has this really big I can answer your question, so here goes. handle REAL combat, tactical, work related rug in our room, and lately it seems to Honestly, I realize when you have a room- issues if you can’t communicate about a give an odor off that some might say mate there will always be things that irritate rug? One piece of advice I learned on my “smells like fritos.” I have asked her if you about the other person. Even the best of last deployment. Don’t try to adapt your en- she has taken it outside to febreeze it or friends can find it difficult at times to live vironment to you when you’re deployed, try to air it out and she said no. I suggested together, I mean let’s face it, the best of rela- and adapt yourself to the environment. Just that she do that, hinting at the fact that tionships don’t always survive the “moving food for thought. in together” phase. it stinks, but doing it politely. She said Basra Betty

ROCK AND ROLL TRIVIA 5) This Boston band packed arenas in the mid- a minor hit with “The Ballad of Jayne.” 1970s touring in support of albums such as Get Your Wings and Toys In The Attic. 13) After kicking around for 11 years, Kix took advantage of the hair metal craze and finally scored THE METAL 80s Renaissance big with what 1989 power ballad? 14) On MTV’s “Beavis and Butthead,” creator Mike 6) The Scorpions sing about what metropolis on Judge helped signal the death knell for hair metal This week’s trivia is as epic as the genre it’s “The Zoo”? by drawing what group’s concert shirt on uber- about – Heavy Metal. Some musical styles dork Stuart. (Bonus – what bands are featured on 7) This band may sing “Breaking the Law,” but an come and go, but Heavy Metal has had rock Beavis and Butthead’s shirts?) fans banging their heads for over 40 years. Arizona jury ruled their music was not responsible for the suicides of two troubled teens. 15) This band was on top of the world in 1989 with their cover of Ian Hunter’s “Once Bitten, 8) After fronting Rainbow and Black Sabbath, what Twice Shy.” Fourteen years later they were center The Founding Fathers diminutive singer went on to solo success in the stage in one of rock’s greatest tragedies when 100 1980s and was featured in the Tenacious D film fans were killed during a blaze at a nightclub in 1) Deep Purple wrote what classic after witness- “The Pick of Destiny”? ing the Montreaux Casino catch fire by Lake Ge- Rhode Island. neva? (If you own a guitar, you’ve probably played 9) Named after a torture device, this British metal the riff to this one.) band is known for thoughtful lyrics, imaginative

album covers, and precise (and fast) playing.

2) Blue Cheer’s cover of what Eddie Cochran Close Your Eyes” (14) Winger (15) Great White

classic is often referred to as the first true heavy 10) What Metallica song is based on a Hemingway Bell Tolls (11) Poison (12) LA Guns (13) “Don’t

metal song? novel? James Dio (9) Iron Maiden (10) “For Whom the

mith (6) New York City (7) Judas Priest (8)Ronnie

3) What band drew lyrical inspiration from JRR Hair Metal Blues” (3) Led Zeppelin (4) “Iron Man” (5) Aeros

Tolkien on the songs “Misty Mountain Hop” and (1) “Smoke on the Water” (2) “Summertime “Battle of Evermore”? 11) “Talk Dirty to Me” was the first hit for what Answers to this week’s trivia: ‘toxic’ band? 4) Robert Downey, Jr., was just five years old when Black Sabbath released this song about 12) Guns n’ Roses was formed by former mem- what vengeful person with “heavy boots of lead.” bers of Hollywood Rose and this band that scored To be continued next week...

Page 13 CivilAround Capacity the COB August 16, Issue 29

Big Red One Puzzle of the Week

Each week, look for a new brain teaser here, with the answer in the following week’s Danger Forward.

Solution for last week: Paradox Brought to you by the 1st Inf. Div. ORSA Cell

A look around USD-S Sudoku

Photo by Warrant Officer Kais Pfc. Drew Martin provides security along with his new part- ner during a combined Iraqi and U.S. operation to deliver food and supplies to Iraqi citizens in Basra Province. Have a photo from around USD-S? Email it, along with the photographer’s name, rank and unit, the date and place it was taken, and a short description, to nathaniel. [email protected], and you could have it featured here and receive a coin from DCSM Jim Champagne. For solutions visit: www.puzzles.ca/sudoku_puzzles/sudoku_hard_003.html

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