The Justice League

2nd Brigade Combat Team Forward Camp Liberty, Iraq

The Striker Torch 30th Edition September 10, 2006

XXXEDITION

Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, stand guard during a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq.

Photo by 1st Lt. Jason Blackston

STRIKER TORCH NEWS TEAM

2nd BCT Commander Col. Robert E. Scurlock Jr. CONTACT US!

2nd BCT Command Sergeant Major HQ, 2BCT, 1AD Command Sgt. Maj. Jose A. Santos ATTN: PAO Camp Liberty Soldiers Pick Big Wheels What’s in a 2nd BCT Public Affairs Officer APO, AE 09344 The Justice up a Little The Maj. Frederick K. Bower What’s keep on Crest 8-10 frederick.bower@ mnd-b.army.mil League Oasis Inside? Piece of Home rolling Cav. Striker Torch Editor in Chief david.r.dockett @ us.army.mil Capt. John D. Turner Page Page 3 5 Page 10 This Edition can also be found online at Striker Torch Editors http://www.1ad.army.mil/2BCTNewsletters.htm Sgt. 1st Class David R. Dockett Sgt. 1st Class Liviu A. Ivan We are looking for any type of submissions to include: letters, articles, comic strips or artwork, and photographs. Striker Torch Design Coordinator Page Page 6 8 Spc. Jeremy E. Neece If you would like a copy of this issue please contact your Battalion UPAR 1-22 IN: Capt. Rob Stoffel 47th FSB: Capt. Maurice Miles 1-6 IN: Capt. Herbert Flather th Striker Torch Staff Writers 1-23 IN: Capt. Robert Callaghan 40 EN: Capt. Matthew Holbrook 2-6 IN: Capt. Gabriel Martinez 8-10 CAV: Capt. Daniel Tower 4-27 FA: Capt. Thomas Hasara 1-35 AR: 1st Lt. Dustin Gray Sgt. Raul L. Montano Spc. Joshua P. Ramey The Striker Torch is an authorized publication for Department of Defense members. Contents of the Striker Torch are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or the Department of the Army. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office. PAGE 2 XXX Edition September 10, 2006 PAGE 15

Front Page Top: A Stryker vehicle parked beside an Iraqi Police truck during Operation Together Forward. Bravo Company 1st Battalion 23 Infantry Regiment. Photo by 1st Lt. Jason Blackston Iraqi Army Re-affirms Allegiance Bottom Left: 2nd Lt. Dan Futrell hands out an information card during a patrol in the Baghdad Neighborhood of Ghazaliyah in August, 2006. Photo by Spc. Holley Baker Story by Spc. Joshua Ramey Bottom Center: Spc. Michael Murphy of the Engineer Reconnaissance Platoon, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 40th Engineer Battalion, scans the shoulder of a road for IED’s during a patrol in Baghdad. Photo by Spc. Robert Sickels 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Divi- the killers and kidnappers, bring them law, even Prime Minister Maliki is Bottom Right: Spc. Malinda Afoa of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 40th Engineer Battalion, practices aiming techniques on her assigned M249 prior to a patrol. Photo by Staff Sgt. Audrey Fuller sion, re-affirmed their allegiance to the to justice, and take control of our coun- under the law of Iraq. It is important nation of Iraq, in a ceremony attended try,” said one of the speakers in Arabic. for all soldiers to put their full loyalty by the entire bri- to the Iraqi army, gade of Iraqi sol- and not tribes or Iraqi army soldiers from 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi religions,” He con- diers and leader- Army Division, stand in formation to re-affirm ship. Capt. Robert their allegiance to the Government of Iraq near tinued, “We have Lundberg of Com- Camp Liberty, Iraq. Photo by Spc. Joshua trust and faith in pany A, 412th Ramey our soldiers’ loy- Civil Affairs Bat- alty to the army. talion, said that That is why we are the ceremony held successful in the

th audacity and strength of will, at Forward Oper- area with raids, ating Base Consti- arrests, and finding tution on Septem- weapons. It is be- ber 7th, 2006, was cause we have faith Top Left: Left to right: Staff Sgt. Jack Rydell, Staff Sgt. Shane Lees and 1st Lt. Aaron Reid from Troop A, 8th Squadron, 10th Cavalry the first of its kind in our Soldiers.” Regiment, clear a house in the neighborhood of Jihad, in Baghdad, Iraq. Photo by Staff Sgt. Roger Martin since the brigade’s An Iraqi NCO, Sgt. Top Center: Pvt. First Class Douglas Lawrence (left) from Service Battery and Spc. Lawrence Harris, from Headquarters and Headquarters Battery of 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment, hang a unit sign in front of their battalion headquarters at Camp Liberty, Iraq. inception a year Mohamed, also of Photo by 1st Lt. Phidel Hun ago. 3/6 IA Div., said, Top Right: Sgt. Joshua Zimmerman from Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment prepares to Lt. Sadick, a platoon leader in the “It is a very good ceremony; It lets the fire his M4 at a range inside of FOB Justice, Iraq. Photo Spc. Joshua Ramey The ceremony involved brigade Bottom Left: Staff Sgt. Marcus Thomas, Company A, 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment, picks up long awaited mail for his leadership who told the Iraqi army Commando Company, 3rd Bde., 6th IA soldiers know they must serve the Company at Camp Liberty, Iraq. Photo by Capt. Dan Tower soldiers, “The future of Iraq is in your Div., said this ceremony was meant to army they joined with full loyalty, and Bottom Right: Soldiers of Company A, 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, conduct operations in the outskirts of the Baghdad Neighborhood of Ghazaliya in August, 2006. Photo by Spc. Holley Baker hands. We are the lion that will attack inspire Iraqi soldiers to believe in the let go of their [previous affiliations].” Quote of the Week: Quote of the future of Iraq. “All of us are under the - Karl von Clausewitz bition and if he pursues his aims wi What Do YOU Think? he will reach them in spite of all obstacles.” “What is the most rewarding part of your mission?”

Staff Sgt. Philip Dudley Staff Sgt. Guy Sifuentes, Spc. Darryl Shelton Spc. Eric Chan, Spc. Rigoberto Navarro, HHC, 1-23 INF HHB, 4-27 FA Co. B, 47th FSB HHT, 8-10 CAV HHD, 47th FSB

“If the leader is filled with high am “To be able to provide security “Fight this fight, so my kids and safety for my family and “The fact is knowing we are “As a soldier, being steadfast “Knowing all Soldiers have won’t have to fight this country through developing an out here making a difference and demonstrating persever- all the equipment to com- fight.” independent Iraqi Army.” in the Iraqi people lives.” ance when duty calls.” plete their mission.”

Next Week: “What do you think everyone can do to improve safety?” THE STRIKER TORCH PAGE 14 XXX Edition September 10, 2006 PAGE 3

Story by 1st Lt. Dustin Gray

C O NJUN S CTI STheTAMU Justice League What's in a Crest? Story by Capt. David Mattox

8th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment he Justice League began welfare and quality of as a group of superheroes life of the U.S. Sol- like Superman and Won- diers that reside here. Description: A gold color plied by the Indians to colored T metal and enamel device 1 regiments. The distinctive unit der Woman. They ruled the comic Every day, the Mayor’s Cell pro- inch (2.54cm) blazoned: On an book pages as the protectors of insignia is worn in pairs. freedom and justice. Today, 27 vides command and heraldic wreath Or and Sable, Soldiers from Company B, 141st control for the local a buffalo statant Proper. On a Background: The distinc- Signal Battalion refer to them- national workforce, scroll of the second fimbriated tive unit insignia was originally selves as the Justice League. responsible for com- of the first the motto "READY approved on 13 Mar 1922. It These Soldiers make up the pleting work orders AND FORWARD" of the like. was amended 6 Dec 1923 to Mayor’s Cell and Force Protection and keeping the elec- change the wording in the de- team that keep Forward Operating tricity, plumbing, and Symbolism: Black and scription and the method of Base (FOB) JUSTICE running and air conditioning run- gold have long been used as wear. On 19 Mar 1951 the in- safe. Though communications and ning. With many the regimental colors. The buf- signia was re-designated for the electronics are their job, the Justice Soldiers residing on falo has likewise been the em- 510th Tank Battalion. The dis- League has become well versed the FOB, the Mayor’s blem of the regiment for many tinctive unit insignia was re- and experienced with Entry Con- Cell stays busy with trol Point (ECP) Operations, Bri- new work orders and years having its origin in the designated for the 10th Cavalry gade Internment Facility functions, basic repairs. The term "Buffalo soldiers" ap- on 12 May 1959. and the inner workings of what it Soldiers in the takes to make a FOB operate. Mayor’s Cell have Company B was attached to learned to work with Legal Issues to think about when you redeploy 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery, local nationals exten- #2 - Lawsuits early this month and given the mis- sively and they have When Soldiers return to home members will return from Iraq resulting in potentially large sion to assume the Mayoral duties learned a portion of of FOB Justice along with the the bigger picture on station, there are many things to learn that someone has filed judgments against you. These Force Protection aspects from Bat- what is required to a lawsuit against them. In most going on at the same time. As judgments are worse than a tery A, 4th Battalion, 27th Field house US Soldiers in you begin to plan your rede- cases, the court will delay the debt - it's a court order requir- Artillery, and elements of 4th Bri- Iraq; Force Protection ployment, make sure to keep in trial until the service member ing you to pay the amount of gade, 4th Infantry Division. This measures, Preventa- mind that there are legal issues returns from deployment. In a the lawsuit. If you learn that a new and unfamiliar mission has tive Medicine regula- that need to be addressed when few cases, however, the court lawsuit was filed against you brought long days of guard duty tions, fire safety stan- you return. In this 4 part series, may not know that the service while you were deployed, come and processing work order re- dards, and contract- we’ll discuss some things you member is deployed and will to the Legal Assistance Office quests, but the Soldiers welcome it ing restrictions. Top: Capt. Logan Kerschner, of Company B, 141st Signal Battalion, works with enthusiasm. The Company B The rest of the with an interpreter at the Iraqi run Entry Control Point of Forward Operating should do upon your return allow the lawsuit to proceed in immediately. Base Justice, Khadimiyah, Iraq. Capt. David Mattox from the deployment. the service member's absence. Soldiers are receptive to these new Justice League Sol- Middle: Spc. Elijah Latunde (left), Spc. Nicholas Luchenbill (center), and missions. diers like Spc. Na- Spc. Nathan Kovell (right), all from Company B, 141st Signal Battalion, If this occurs, it is likely that Next week, credit reports will prepare to relieve the guard force at Forward Operating Base Justice, Khadi- #2 – Lawsuits the lawsuit will be granted be discussed. The Justice League is respon- than Kovell and Sgt. miyah, Iraq. Photo by Capt. David Mattox sible for the screening and supervi- Shawn Dunlap rotate Bottom: Capt. David Mattox and 1st Sgt. Robert Beausoleil (far left and far Unfortunately, some service against the service member, right) of Company B, 141st Signal Battalion stand with Iraqi army com- sion of the local nationals that between manning the mander Maj. Muhammad (center left), and Command Sgt. Major Abd (center work on the small FOB. They are Entry Control Point right), while working together to run portions of Forward Operating Base also responsible for the health, Justice in Khadimiyah, Iraq. Photo by Capt. Logan Kerschner THE STRIKER TORCH Justice League - Continued on Page 4 PAGE 4 XXX Edition September 10, 2006 PAGE13 Crazyhorse Medics The Chaplain’s Corner Story by 1st Lt. Brian Murphy I submit to you that found within we must find a way to swing the bat can focus on are those made to each the pages of Holy Scripture we are given effectively. other before we left and those made a tremendous promise of divine pres- As a chaplain, one of my missions since we have been here. One of the “Medic!” This is the common cry ence and protection. The Psalmist is to help you learn and know how to things I tell the soldiers is, heard when men are wounded in battle. writes, “He who dwells in the shelter of convey this to families at home. Prom- “geographical separation does not However, the medics of today are nothing the Most High will rest in the shadow of ises like this from Psalm 91 provide us mean emotional disengagement.” This like the medics of yesterday. In Iraq, it the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1) The rest of with peace and means we must find ways to stay con- often hard to distinguish a medic from a the text tells us how God protects, pro- nected to each other. How are you Cavalry Scout, as they perform all the vides and gives tremendous peace to staying connected? Relying on the common tasks of the soldier in addition to those who call on His name. As we promises of God and the prom- their own. In Troop C, 8th Squadron, continue the mission here I con- ises made to each other are two 10th Cavalry Regiment, this holds espe- stantly proclaim this message of hope ways this can be accomplished. cially true. and assurance of presence. God is Recall these promises; renew these Cpl. Pablo Asencio has been with 1st proving Himself faithful to His word assurance that we can promises and refresh your communica- Platoon, Troop C, since the unit deployed and many of us can see this on a regular play a good game in life. tion together by actively seeking to to Kuwait and Iraq in December, 2005. basis. Belief is a powerful tool soldiers Many here rely on the promises from the fulfill your promises to each other. This When he is not being called to save a can rely on to help them through the Almighty and several of you back home time apart will become much less soldier’s life, which he has done this year, tough times when things are chaotic and rely on these same promises. Trusting in stressful when we focus on how we can he is out with his brothers in arms placing confusing. This same belief also helps this promise of God is one way you can connect instead of how much we are traffic cones and wire for traffic control us become better with our families and know God is watching over your loved apart. points, as well as searching vehicles. Cpl. friends. Sometimes life has a way of one here in Iraq and it might help you Asencio has been in the thick of some of throwing curve balls our direction and sleep better at night. Other promises you -Chaplain (Captain) John D. Hill the most serious situations that “Crazy Horse” Troop has come across. His ac- tions following an IED blast in April were Justice League - Continued from Page 3 lowed. They remarkable as he stabilized a seriously leading to the FOB and supervis- also enjoy wounded Trooper and helped save his life ing the Iraqi Army Brigade Intern- working with prior to evacuation to the hospital. ment Facility. The Soldiers on the the Iraqi Spc. Tristan Jones of 2nd Platoon, ECP uphold the strictest force Troop C, has also experienced combat on Army Sol- both the giving and receiving end. When protection standards. diers who are he is not rendering aid, either to a A Brigade Internment Facility the actual “Bradley bite” or a “barracks cut,” he is serves as a temporary holding guards of the performing medic duties to wounded facility for detainees before being detainees. soldiers in combat. Recently, Spc. Jones processed to a larger detention The Sol- was wounded when a stray round de- facility or being released. The diers of flected off his body armor and struck him high standards at the Justice facil- in the posterior. While he is not the first Company B, medic to be wounded, it was certainly ity can be attributed to the super- Top: Cpl. Pablo Asencio and Spc. Charles Tandy, two of the medics assigned to Troop C, 8th Squadron, 10th 141st Signal surreal for his platoon to provide first aid Cavalry Regiment, at Camp Liberty, Iraq. Photo by 1st Lt. Brian Murphy vision provided by the Justice Bn., are en- Sgt. 1st Class Samuel Everett watches over Spc. Marcia Cooper as she conducts to the expert. As with all troopers from Bottom: 1st Lt. Brian Murphy (left), the Executive Officer of Troop C, 8th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, League. Soldiers like Spc. Elijah fueling operations at Forward Operating Base Justice, Khadimiyah, Iraq. Both Sol- talks with two of his medics, Cpl. Pablo Asencio (center) and Spc. Charles Tandy (right) at Camp Liberty, Iraq. thusiastic diers are from Company B, 141st Signal Battalion. Photo by Capt. David Mattox the unit, he fought his way back in the Photo by Capt. Dan Tower Latunde and Sgt. Gary Ford en- about their saddle the next day, ready to patrol. sure detainees are afforded the new mission and are proud to re- Justice League. It can be said that The Crazy Horse Medics are led by Their added specialty as medics makes demonstrate selfless service every day. them very valuable to the team effort, as basic human rights and the proper fer to themselves as the chosen the ”Justice League” is once again Staff Sgt. Kevin Kennerly, who recently There are many individuals, both Soldier they keep their fellow scouts in the fight. and civilian, who owe their lives and accountability procedures are fol- Signal Soldiers that make up the providing safety and freedom. came to the Troop in August, 2006 from Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, For them, it never matters whether the health to the brave and dedicated medics 8th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. These medics injured is American or Iraqi, a person in of “Crazy Horse” Troop. THE STRIKER TORCH are true Cavalry Scouts in every way. need requires their help and these Soldiers PAGE12 XXX Edition September 10, 2006 PAGE 5

All events start at 2000 hours, and are located in the Scorpion MWR recreation tent.

1st Lt. Marc Miller of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment talks with local residents in the Baghdad neighborhood of Bakriya during an operation to rid the neighborhood of Illegal weapons and terrorist activities. TheStory by Master Sgt. Timothy BinghamOasis Photo by Sgt. Raul Montano The 47th Forward Support 47th enjoy taking a little time to Soldiers” of the 2nd BCT a place Battalion provides many things for relax and just socialize with one all our own, one that is close to a Brigade Combat Team on a 24- another to combat the stress they where we live and work. hour basis. Since its arrival in Iraq, face prior to and during missions The facility is named the as well as our tenure in Kuwait, the conducted outside the wire. This 2nd BCT MWR facility, but is Battalion continues to maintain 24- escape is often enjoyed through the commonly referred to as “The Oa- hour availability of its assets. Pro- means of the Morale, Welfare, and sis.” It is a place to relax and so- viding support when needed to Recreation tent, where a gym and cialize, borrow a book out of the elements of the 2BCT is not an other recreational facilities are pre- library, surf the web and the most easy task; nor is the risk Soldiers sent. As a Brigade, we were very popular thing to do - work out on face when conducting missions. fortunate to move into living quar- the exercise equipment. Our small Like any Battalion in our Brigade ters that contained an MWR facility facility supplies all these amenities

Combat Team, the Soldiers of the of its own, one that gives the “Iron The Oasis - Continued on Page 7

Operation South Sword Search Story by Sgt. Raul Montano

Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 5th Bri- nel, and question them for intelli- gade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Division, gence. Left: Spc. Benjamin Hensley of Company B, 47th Forward Support Battalion, swells his deltoids and traps with sets of dumb-bell military presses at the Oasis recrea- and the 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Divi- “We are capitalizing on tion tent at Camp Liberty, Iraq. Photo by Master Sgt. Timothy Bingham sion, along with the1st Battalion, 23rd Infan- successes of OPERATION TO- Right: Capt. Jeanne Deden, Company C, 47th Forward Support Battalion, enjoys sifting through the small library to look for a good read at the Oasis recreation tent, located on Camp Liberty, Iraq. Photo by Master Sgt. Timothy Bingham try Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry GETHER FORWARD by deny- Division attached to 2nd Brigade Combat ing terrorists the means to hide Team, 1st Armored Division, Multi-National weapons,” said Capt. Miller of •The General Elections are coming up fast, Division-Baghdad, continued OPERATION Headquarters and Headquarters TOGETHER FORWARD with OPERA- Company, 1st Bn., 23rd Inf. Regt. in November TION SOUTH SWORD SEARCH August As well as securing the 28th, in the Baghdad neighborhood of Bak- neighborhood, Lt. Col. Avanulas riya. Iraqi Security Forces have been work- Smiley, Commander of the 1st •To vote from an overseas location you have to ing closely with Coalition Forces to clear the Maj. Jesse Pearson of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Bn., 23rd Inf., Regt. also talked to Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment talks with local residents in the request an absentee ballot area of illegal weapons and put an end to residents about services offered in Baghdad neighborhood of Bakriya during an operation to rid the terrorist activities. the neighborhood. neighborhood of Illegal weapons and terrorist activities. “This was a totally combined operation “With the Iraqi Battalion Photo by Sgt. Raul Montano •For assistance contact your Unit Voting with the 1st Bn., 5th Bde., 2nd National we are working with, we are Since the launch of OPERATION TOGETHER Officer, or look online at ww.vote.army.mil Police Div. and 1st Bde., 6th Iraqi Army going to continue on the path to FORWARD, the 2nd Brigade Combat Team has Div.,” said Maj. Jesse Pearson of Headquar- reduce violence and crime. One searched over 27,000 buildings yielding over 600 ille- ters and Headquarters Company, 1st Bn. of the ways to do that is by clean- gal weapons and 32 detainees. 23rd Inf. Regt. “they were extremely suc- ing up the neighborhood.” said Lt. THE STRIKER TORCH cessful in helping us capture enemy person- Col. Smiley. XXX Edition September 10, 2006 PAGE 7 PAGE10 The Oasis - Continued from Page 6 The 47th FSB currently performs and 24-hour aid station operations. to accommodate the Soldiers of the 2nd many operations on any given day, for It’s these long and tiring missions Brigade, giving them a short respite example running the Detention Holding that the Modern Pioneers, as well as from their work schedule and daily Area Annex, providing on-call mainte- their fellow Iron Soldiers, are called Top: Soldiers of missions. This haven offers a 24-hour nance, transportation, and recovery to answer that make the Oasis the Company A, 1st Bat- operation for our Soldiers and their assets; executing combat logistic pa- perfect escape from the long days and talion, 23rd Infantry “around the clock” schedule. trols, fuel and ammunition re-supply, nights in Iraq. Regiment, conduct operations in the outskirts of the Baghdad Neighborhood of Ghazaliya in August, 2006. Photo by Spc. Holley Baker

Middle Left: Sgt. Guille Marquezcorona of Service Battery, 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, guides con- crete barriers into place. Photo by Spc. Top: Staff Sgt. Christopher Fernandez, of Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 47th Forward Support Battalion, builds his trapezius muscle by shrugging his shoulders at the Oasis recreation tent on Camp Liberty, Iraq. Photo by Master Sgt. Timothy Bingham Joshua Ramey Bottom: Pfc. Jennifer Thompson, from Company C, 47th Forward Support Battalion, uses a treadmill to maintain her cardio vascular stamina at the Oasis recreation tent, located at Camp Liberty, Iraq. Photo by Master Sgt. Timothy Bingham Middle Right: 1st Lt. Hector Cantillo of Troop C, 8th Squad- Frequently Asked Computer Questions & Answers ron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, gives a local Iraqi woman a Q: What steps should I take to con- move the hard drive during sleep be lost. humanitarian aid nect and disconnect major compo- mode, all memory will be erased. In packet outside Camp nents to and from my computer? addition, unplugging the power cable Q: I’m not receiving e-mail messages Falcon, Iraq. Photo A: When connecting or disconnecting like I should. Where’s it all going? by Capt. Dan Tower a video peripheral (for example, a A: Where’s my mail? If you have monitor or projector) to or from lap- created a .PST file on your personal Bottom: Capt. Teddy tops, be sure to power down both the computer and selected this file to re- Kleisner, Commander laptop and the video peripheral. This ceive incoming mail, then all incom- of Company C, 1st will help prevent the arching out of ing mail will be sent to this PST file. Battalion, 23rd Infan- the laptop and the video peripheral. Consequently, even though you might try Regiment, talks with children in the have a email profile on another com- Baghdad neighbor- Q: Why did I lose all the memory on puter, you will not be able to access hood of Ghazaliya. my hard drive when I took it out of your mail in the .PST file. .PST files Photo by 1st Lt. Ja- my computer? are stored on local hard drives and are son Blackston A: When removing a hard drive from not stored on the server. a laptop, make sure your laptop is powered down. Sometimes your lap- to power down a laptop does not If you have any computer questions top is in sleep mode and appears to be power down a laptop. The batteries or concerns, contact your Battalion powered down. Beware! The laptop will still provide power to the laptop communications shop or S-6. THE STRIKER TORCH is not powered down and if you re- and all memory on the hard drive will PAGE 8 XXX Edition September 10, 2006 PAGE 9

Big Wheels - Continued from Page 8 rently performing this mission between Ramadi and Al Taqaddum in over the place,” 1st support of 1st BCT, 1st Armored Sgt. Bess said as he Division. described some of The Palletized Load System the areas through (PLS) trucks and Load Handling which the convoys System trucks carry heavy loads up travel. Still, 1st Sgt. Bess goes where his to 18,000 lbs. The fuel trucks in the Pfc. Daniel Trout, of Company FSB double the size and fuel capac- Soldiers go, sees B, 47th Forward Support Bat- ity of the Task Force fuelers, holding what they see, and talion, helps place a 5,000 gallon fuel tanker in position. up to 5,000 gallons in a single tank. trains his junior Photo by 1st Sgt. William Bess The Pioneers spent many days leaders in the proc- training for convoy operations in ess. “You never can Kuwait ensuring every Soldier in the tell what you’ll find battalion would know what to do or come up on out A Load Handling System Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) prepares to when out on the roads in Iraq. “The there, so you have to leave Camp Liberty, Iraq with a payload of water on a Company B, 47th Forward Support convoy training in Kuwait was really be ready all the Battalion, Combat Logistics Patrol. Photo by 1st Sgt. William Bess great for instilling confidence in time,” he said. “You never can tell what you’ll find or co 1st Sgt. William Bess Spc. Brandon Sliwinski of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Big Wheels keep40th Engineer Battalion on mounts his crew rolling served weapon as the convoy Company B, 47th FSB Story by Spc. Wesley Belcher prepares for a mission into the Baghdad neighborhood of Ameriyah in As these warriors continue to operation, thus contributing to the s the Brigade Combat understand why theirsupport mission of Operation is Together port Forward. arise. Their new mission in- every Soldier, and to recognize and Photo by Spc. Jason Coles work on their equipment, they get larger mission of OPERATION Team’s mission contin- important in those areas of sup- volves transportation and supply practice the [Tactics, Techniques, better and better everyday. Each IRAQI FREEDOM. ues in Iraq, so does the port. With many of the Forward distribution. Company B started and Procedures] used on the roads in A missionbe ready performed all by the these time.” Soldiers mission of the 47th Forward Sup- Logistics Element Soldiers in out slowly in order to familiarize Iraq,” said Command Sgt. Major enables another unit to continue its port Battalion’s Modern Pioneers. Ramadi and Al Taqaddum, others the leaders with the roads and con- Lester Stephens, 47th FSB Com- me up on out there, so you have to In Baghdad, the 47th FSB has in the 47th FSB have worked ditions in and around Baghdad. mand Sgt. Major. multiple missions; detainee han- harder to sustain the force. The distribution mission is not Now, the Bulldogs (with Sol- diers from Companies A and C) are A Load Handling System dling, maintaining the aid-station For the Company B new to the 47th FSB, however, truck carries a 4K (4,000 and support operations. The Sol- “Bulldogs,” a new mission has the mission normally falls into the becoming road warriors. The com- pound payload) forklift that diers know their jobs, they know unfolded and continues to evolve hands of Company A who is cur- pany is outfitted with the latest in will assist Soldiers in off- up-armored Humvees and trucks. loading and moving sup- the mission in Baghdad, and they as requirements for logistical sup- Big Wheels - Continued on Page 9 plies at their point of deliv- Leading from the front and doing ery. Photo by 1st Sgt. exceptional work with these Sol- William Bess nd diers, is 1st Sgt. William Bess, the • The 2 BCT/1AD Equal Opportunity Office is located in the 4th ID En- gineer Chapel, directly behind the PX trailer, next to Scorpion MWR. Company B 1st Sgt. 1st Sgt. Bess has led these Sol- diers out on numerous occasions and • Although not mandatory, it is recommended you first attempt to resolve Equal Opportunity issues through your Chain-of-Command. takes his subordinate leaders through their missions from the beginning of

the planning stage, through the Com- • To discuss any EO issues, please contact SFC Owens by email: bat Logistics Patrol, through comple- [email protected] tion and post operation maintenance checks. “The roads are a mess out there, and some of the areas are really crowded and people are all THE STRIKER TORCH XXX Edition September 10, 2006 PAGE 7 PAGE10 The Oasis - Continued from Page 6 The 47th FSB currently performs and 24-hour aid station operations. to accommodate the Soldiers of the 2nd many operations on any given day, for It’s these long and tiring missions Brigade, giving them a short respite example running the Detention Holding that the Modern Pioneers, as well as from their work schedule and daily Area Annex, providing on-call mainte- their fellow Iron Soldiers, are called Top: Soldiers of missions. This haven offers a 24-hour nance, transportation, and recovery to answer that make the Oasis the Company A, 1st Bat- operation for our Soldiers and their assets; executing combat logistic pa- perfect escape from the long days and talion, 23rd Infantry “around the clock” schedule. trols, fuel and ammunition re-supply, nights in Iraq. Regiment, conduct operations in the outskirts of the Baghdad Neighborhood of Ghazaliya in August, 2006. Photo by Spc. Holley Baker

Combat Team, the Soldiers of the of its own, one that gives the “Iron The Oasis - Continued on Page 7

Operation South Sword Search Story by Sgt. Raul Montano

All events start at 2000 hours, and are located in the Scorpion MWR recreation tent.

CleaningStory by Story by 1st Lt. Matt Parsons House Monday, 11 September: Ping Pong Tournament Tuesday, 12 September: NBA Live 2006 Tournament nary guy who takes asked to take point. Spc. Harris said that Wednesday, 13 September: Country / Western nigh and Chess Tournament interest in his free initially he felt nervous, but he remem- time to wakeboard, bered thinking to himself that “the job Thursday, 14 September: Karaoke, Spades and Dominoes Tournaments swim, and play sports. has to be done and somebody’s got to do Friday, 15 September: 9 Ball Billiards Tournament Spc. Harris, like many it”. Spc. Harris took point that evening Soldiers over here, is and ended up finding two 155mm rounds Saturday, 16 September: R & B Night doing his job and which were indiscriminately placed by Sunday, 17 September: Salsa Night and Air Hockey Tournament doing it well. In fact, insurgents in order to harm innocent local his Tank Commander, nationals and Coalition Forces. Despite Staff Sgt. Jose Garcia limited experience, Spc. Harris was able states that he is “an to accomplish the mission due to his excellent Soldier who training, physical fitness and attention to Soldiers pick up a little piece of home always does what he detail. Co. C, 1st Bn., 22nd Inf. Regt., Story by Staff Sgt. Audrey Fuller is told”. In one par- has been recognized by all echelons of ticular event, Spc. command for its efforts due to the ac- uring any deployment, Sol- Harris’ attention to complishments of men like Spc. Harris. diers work long hours in detail allowed him to Upon redeployment, Spc. Harris is extreme temperatures, some- find an IED that could really looking forward to seeing his fam- D times during extreme circum- have seriously injured ily and “going somewhere where I can stances. During these busy times, Sol- or killed some of his take care of all my needs in one location, diers appreciate keeping in touch with Spc. Tony Harris, a Soldier from Company C, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry comrades. like at Wal-Mart.” He also is looking family and friends, and look forward to Regiment, recently participated in several dismounted patrols in the Spc. Harris, who is on forward to eating at The Olive Garden, packages that they get in the mail. It is neighborhoods of Baghdad, helping to secure the citizens of Baghdad and his first deployment to his favorite restaurant. His parents are help them build a better life for themselves. Photo by 1st Lt. Matt Parsons one of the things that most Soldiers look Iraq, was participating very supportive of what he is doing and forward to every day. in his first dismount they are proud of what he has accom- Mail call often plays a major role Spc. Tony Harris of Company C, patrol in a known IED hotspot. Just a plished. Regulars by God, Deeds not in a Soldier’s daily routine. When Sol- 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, is few days earlier, his Platoon Leader was Words! diers receive mail, it connects them with from Georgetown, Texas and is an ordi- hit with an IED and Spc. Harris was members of their family on a personal level, and helps them stay in contact with their loved ones. Also, many of Spc. Luis Loubriel of Headquarters and Headquarters REENLIST BEFORE 1 OCT today’s technologically savvy Soldiers Company, 40th Engineer Battalion, organizes his mail order items over the internet, allowing room, making room for the next day’s deliveries. Photo by Staff Sgt. Audrey Fuller 2006 them to get items that they might not be able to find at the local PX. When a box GET 1 SEMESTER OF is picked up or a care package is re- of his time organizing it alphabetically, him to the 40th Engineer Battalion based ceived, it always makes a Soldiers’ day. in Baumholder, Germany. COLLEGE! tracking special mail like certified and In the 40th Engineer Battalion, insured letters and boxes, and does it all “I am proud to be an American and when someone wants their mail, the per- while making sure all Army and Post Of- proud to have been a part of the deploy- All Mid Career Soldiers assigned to the 1st Armored Division can reenlist for son they come to is Spc. Luis Loubriel, fice rules and regulations are followed to ment for OIF 05-07,” Spc. Loubriel said of Headquarters and Headquarters Com- the letter. when being interviewed for this story. 2,3,4,5, and 6 years for any reenlistment option and get 1 semester of college, pany, 40th Eng. Bn. Spc. Loubriel, a Spc. Loubriel was born and raised in His great attitude overall performance as member of the battalion’s personnel guaranteed by Maj. General Robinson, the Commanding General of the 1st Hartford, Connecticut. He graduated from the Battalion’s mail clerk makes it easy section, is responsible for picking up the Hartford High School in 1998, and upon for everyone to get their mail and keep Armored Division. See your Unit Career Counselor today for further details. entire Battalion’s mail and ensuring that graduation, he entered the Connecticut those lines of communication open with the Soldiers of Task Force Ram receive National Guard. In 2003, he entered into their loved ones. Spc. Loubriel said, “It their letters and packages. Spc. Loubriel active duty. He attended Advanced Indi- makes me proud when a Soldier’s face goes to the Camp Liberty Post Office vidual Training as a mail delivery clerk. lights up when they get mail and they THE STRIKER TORCH daily to pick up mail, then spends the rest His first active duty assignment brought always thank me for getting it to them.” PAGE 4 XXX Edition September 10, 2006 PAGE13 Crazyhorse Medics The Chaplain’s Corner Story by 1st Lt. Brian Murphy I submit to you that found within we must find a way to swing the bat can focus on are those made to each the pages of Holy Scripture we are given effectively. other before we left and those made a tremendous promise of divine pres- As a chaplain, one of my missions since we have been here. One of the “Medic!” This is the common cry ence and protection. The Psalmist is to help you learn and know how to things I tell the soldiers is, heard when men are wounded in battle. writes, “He who dwells in the shelter of convey this to families at home. Prom- “geographical separation does not However, the medics of today are nothing the Most High will rest in the shadow of ises like this from Psalm 91 provide us mean emotional disengagement.” This like the medics of yesterday. In Iraq, it the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1) The rest of with peace and means we must find ways to stay con- often hard to distinguish a medic from a the text tells us how God protects, pro- nected to each other. How are you Cavalry Scout, as they perform all the vides and gives tremendous peace to staying connected? Relying on the common tasks of the soldier in addition to those who call on His name. As we promises of God and the prom- their own. In Troop C, 8th Squadron, continue the mission here I con- ises made to each other are two 10th Cavalry Regiment, this holds espe- stantly proclaim this message of hope ways this can be accomplished. cially true. and assurance of presence. God is Recall these promises; renew these Cpl. Pablo Asencio has been with 1st proving Himself faithful to His word assurance that we can promises and refresh your communica- Platoon, Troop C, since the unit deployed and many of us can see this on a regular play a good game in life. tion together by actively seeking to to Kuwait and Iraq in December, 2005. basis. Belief is a powerful tool soldiers Many here rely on the promises from the fulfill your promises to each other. This When he is not being called to save a can rely on to help them through the Almighty and several of you back home time apart will become much less soldier’s life, which he has done this year, tough times when things are chaotic and rely on these same promises. Trusting in stressful when we focus on how we can he is out with his brothers in arms placing confusing. This same belief also helps this promise of God is one way you can connect instead of how much we are traffic cones and wire for traffic control us become better with our families and know God is watching over your loved apart. points, as well as searching vehicles. Cpl. friends. Sometimes life has a way of one here in Iraq and it might help you Asencio has been in the thick of some of throwing curve balls our direction and sleep better at night. Other promises you -Chaplain (Captain) John D. Hill the most serious situations that “Crazy Horse” Troop has come across. His ac- tions following an IED blast in April were Justice League - Continued from Page 3 lowed. They remarkable as he stabilized a seriously leading to the FOB and supervis- also enjoy wounded Trooper and helped save his life ing the Iraqi Army Brigade Intern- working with prior to evacuation to the hospital. ment Facility. The Soldiers on the the Iraqi Spc. Tristan Jones of 2nd Platoon, ECP uphold the strictest force Troop C, has also experienced combat on Army Sol- both the giving and receiving end. When protection standards. diers who are he is not rendering aid, either to a A Brigade Internment Facility the actual “Bradley bite” or a “barracks cut,” he is serves as a temporary holding guards of the performing medic duties to wounded facility for detainees before being detainees. soldiers in combat. Recently, Spc. Jones processed to a larger detention The Sol- was wounded when a stray round de- facility or being released. The diers of flected off his body armor and struck him high standards at the Justice facil- in the posterior. While he is not the first Company B, medic to be wounded, it was certainly ity can be attributed to the super- Top: Cpl. Pablo Asencio and Spc. Charles Tandy, two of the medics assigned to Troop C, 8th Squadron, 10th 141st Signal surreal for his platoon to provide first aid Cavalry Regiment, at Camp Liberty, Iraq. Photo by 1st Lt. Brian Murphy vision provided by the Justice Bn., are en- Sgt. 1st Class Samuel Everett watches over Spc. Marcia Cooper as she conducts to the expert. As with all troopers from Bottom: 1st Lt. Brian Murphy (left), the Executive Officer of Troop C, 8th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, League. Soldiers like Spc. Elijah fueling operations at Forward Operating Base Justice, Khadimiyah, Iraq. Both Sol- talks with two of his medics, Cpl. Pablo Asencio (center) and Spc. Charles Tandy (right) at Camp Liberty, Iraq. thusiastic diers are from Company B, 141st Signal Battalion. Photo by Capt. David Mattox the unit, he fought his way back in the Photo by Capt. Dan Tower Latunde and Sgt. Gary Ford en- about their saddle the next day, ready to patrol. sure detainees are afforded the new mission and are proud to re- Justice League. It can be said that The Crazy Horse Medics are led by Their added specialty as medics makes demonstrate selfless service every day. them very valuable to the team effort, as basic human rights and the proper fer to themselves as the chosen the ”Justice League” is once again Staff Sgt. Kevin Kennerly, who recently There are many individuals, both Soldier they keep their fellow scouts in the fight. and civilian, who owe their lives and accountability procedures are fol- Signal Soldiers that make up the providing safety and freedom. came to the Troop in August, 2006 from Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, For them, it never matters whether the health to the brave and dedicated medics 8th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. These medics injured is American or Iraqi, a person in of “Crazy Horse” Troop. THE STRIKER TORCH are true Cavalry Scouts in every way. need requires their help and these Soldiers PAGE 14 XXX Edition September 10, 2006 PAGE 3

Story by 1st Lt. Dustin Gray

C O NJUN S CTI STheTAMU Justice League What's in a Crest? Story by Capt. David Mattox

Staff Sgt. Philip Dudley Staff Sgt. Guy Sifuentes, Spc. Darryl Shelton Spc. Eric Chan, Spc. Rigoberto Navarro, HHC, 1-23 INF HHB, 4-27 FA Co. B, 47th FSB HHT, 8-10 CAV HHD, 47th FSB

Next Week: “What do you think everyone can do to improve safety?” THE STRIKER TORCH 2nd Brigade Combat Team Forward Camp Liberty, Iraq

The Striker Torch 30th Edition September 10, 2006

XXXEDITION

Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, stand guard during a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq.

Photo by 1st Lt. Jason Blackston

STRIKER TORCH NEWS TEAM

2nd BCT Commander Col. Robert E. Scurlock Jr. CONTACT US!