The

H2nd Brigadeeart Combat Team, 101st AirborneB Divisioneat (Air Assault) Volume III, Issue 6 April 2008

Hard Rock troops patrol Hurriyah, pg. 6-7

Cavalry troops, ISF patrol western Baghdad daily, pg. 5 Page 2 Commander’s Voice The Heart Beat Page 3 CSM Call The Heart Beat

here in Iraq. Families within this Brigade. It is no he months are moving fast and motions for Soldiers from the grade of pri- their policy for this system of recognizing The Soldiers of the Strike Brigade easy task dealing with daily stresses Tunits and Soldiers continue to do a vate second class through staff sergeant. outstanding performers during combat. Al- Strike 6 continue to fight tirelessly against en- as we continue our mission. But, each great job. I had the privilege to spend locations will be on a quarterly basis. emy combatants as they strive to build a day these Strike Soldiers awake from some time down south with 2nd Bat- The first quarter is April-June. We will secure and unified Iraq. Strike Soldiers their beds, no matter where they may talion, 502nd Infantry Regiment at Strike 7 make sure first sergeants receive the should stand tall, knowing they continue be sleeping, knowing their loved ones Forward Operating Base Kalsu. They most accurate information as it comes to bring a better way of life to the Iraqi back home support them in every pos- are representing the Strike Brigade out. people in northwest Baghdad. sible way. Combat Team and the 101st Airborne I would like to remind Soldiers and Our soldiers are on the streets daily, No matter how tough or physically fit Division in Multi-National Division leaders of the opportunity for Soldiers interacting with the local populace and and committed these Soldiers may be, – Central very professionally. They who are not U.S. citizens to obtain their gaining their trust, just as a Strike Sol- without the love and compassion from are interested in what is going on in citizenship while in Iraq. While de- dier should. No soldier has an easy job. their friends and families it would be the Strike OE and concerned for their ployed, this process can be expedited. From the cooks and the administrative hard to carry on. We, as a Brigade, do Strike brothers. They are living out on Leaders please make sure our Soldiers personnel, to the infantrymen and cav- not have to worry about that, because four separate Joint Security Stations. who wish to take advantage of this op- alry scouts, our Soldiers are doing an we know our Families are there every These positions have come a long portunity get started. Information for the outstanding job. They are true profes- step we take in this foreign land. way since the last time I was there. process is on the Strike web-page under sionals, and representatives of the great- Families, I ask you to continue the They have improved force protection, the S-1 section. There will be a natural- est nation on Earth – the United States wonderful things you are doing to sup- operations, and are taking care of Sol- ization ceremony April 12. These cer- of America. Soldiers, continue to do port our soldiers. I know you will. diers in many ways. Each JSS has the Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Schroeder emonies are truly inspirational. Col. William B. Hickman great things and trust in your battle bud- Strike Soldiers, I ask you to contin- ability to cook on site. Ok, keep it up. Everybody is impor- oldiers and Families of the dy, your Family and the Strike Brigade ue the great work you are doing to help The Army has implemented the Battle Allocations will be given to Division units tant! Make sure you find your 30 seconds; SStrike Brigade, I just want to tell Combat Team. secure and unify Iraq. Field Promotion pilot program effective on a quarterly basis. The guidance has just it is out there someplace. you right from the start how wonderful I can’t say enough of how proud I Strike 6 April 1, 2008. This program allocates pro- come from Corps, so Division will produce Strike 7 you all are doing to support the mission am of the continued support from the Air Assault

The eart eat H 2nd Brigade CombatB Team In this issue of the Heart Beat 101st Airborne Division Commander’s Voice Pg. 2 Col. William B. Hickman Sergeant Major’s Call Pg. 3 Commander Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Schroeder Cavalry Troops patrol west Baghdad Pg. 4 CSM

Maj. Jose F. Garcia IA troops graduate from CLS course Pg. 5 Public Affairs Officer

Sgt. Paul Monroe Hard Rock troops patrol Hurriyah Pg. 6-7 Public Affairs NCOIC

Sgt. James P. Hunter Faces of the Heart Pg. 8-9 Editor

Submissions: Coalition, ISF team to combat threat Pg. 10 To submit stories, photographs, editorials, comments and sugges tions, contact Sgt. James P. Hunter at james.p.hunter@us.army.mil. Following the fight in Kadhamiyah Pg. 11 Please include rank, first and last name, job title, unit and phone number. Children are the future of Iraq Pg. 15 Around The Heart Beat is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of The Heart Beat are not necc- essarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government Mental Health Clinic helps Soldiers cope Pg. 17 or the Department of Defense.

STRIKE!!! In Memoriam Pg. 24 Strike AO (Top Left) An Iraqi father takes time out from repairing his 2nd Brigade Combat Team -- “Strike” vehicle to play with his daughter in Ameriyah March 9. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Sharhonda R. McCoy, 55th Combat The Camera) 2ndH Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Volume III, Issueeart 6 April 2008 Beat (Bottom Left) An Iraqi Army Soldier talks into his radio to com- On The Cover: municate to his Soldiers on the ground while pulling security at a checkpoint in Kadhamiyah April 1. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Brandon Griffis, a native of Pendleton, Ind., kicks down a door while inspecting a suspicious site in Kadhamiyah March 21. Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. Public Affairs) Griffis serves with 1st Platoon, Company A, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Divi- sion (Air Assault), Multi-National Division – Baghdad. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. James Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO, 101st Abn. Div., MND-B) (Top Right) Staff Sgt. Chris Yslas, a native of Tuscon, Ariz., Hard Rock troops patrol Hurriyah, pg. 6-7 Cavalry troops, ISF patrol the section sergeant for 2nd Platoon, Troop A, 4th Squad- western Baghdad daily, pg. 5 ron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, talks with an Iraqi child while on patrol south of Bakariyah in western Baghdad March 7. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. Public Affairs) Page 4 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 5 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Cavalry troops, ISF patrol western Baghdad daily Story, photos by trash, junk on the roadways, and talked with many of the local citizens Sgt. James P. Hunter in the area. 2nd BCT PAO The area is very rural, with approximately 12 homes in the farm- land community. Palm groves surround the very rough terrain as chil- dren stand outside their homes waiting for the Soldiers to approach. BAGHDAD – Prior to leaving on mission, jokes are passed around “Mista, mista, chocolate,” the children said with excitement. – almost daring the opposition to make a move. The troops joke about They shake hands with the children, pat them on the head, and improvised-explosive devices striking their vehicles as if they aren’t some even kneel down on one knee to speak with the children. The scared of the possibility of an explo- Iraqi children seem to get a kick sion ripping through the door and out of talking with the MND-B possibly taking their life. It’s a real- troops. Yes, there is the language istic fact however, the troops carry barrier; however, given the fact on without worry because there is a American forces have patrolled mission to conduct. the area for nearly five years, When it’s game time— with full they seem to understand each gear donned and weapon status at other quite easily. red— the jokes nearly cease and Their interaction with the Iraqi they begin scanning their sector citizens is key, said Sgt. Donghee – willing and ready to face any threat Kim, a native of Orange County, the enemy poses. Calif. “It’s really important to get Capt. David Tier kisses an Iraqi baby girl outside a local Soldiers with the 4th Squadron, the communication right with the market March 8 while conducting a dismounted patrol 10th Cavalry Regiment, attached locals.” in Bakariyah, Iraq. Tier is assigned to Troop A, 4th to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, The troops often ask if anyone Battalion, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade com- bat Team, 4th Infantry Division, which is based in Fort 101st Airborne Division (Air As- outside the area has recently Carson, Colo., and attached to Multi-National Division sault), Multi-National Division An Iraqi Army Soldier with the 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Divi- entered, which can be a sign of – Baghdad’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne sion, pulls security while on patrol with Soldiers from the 2nd Platoon, Troop Division. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Sharhonda McCoy, – Baghdad, patrol through the A, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat explosives trafficking through 55th Combat Camera) western Baghdad neighborhoods Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Multi-National Division – Bagh- the area. dad, south of Bakariyah in western Baghdad March 7. The Soldiers patrolled of Ameriyah and Bakariyah daily the area looking for possible locations of homemade explosives. “Do you ever see anyone with Iraqi Army Soldiers from the from the outside the village enter 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi this village,” asked 1st Lt. Jared Army Division, in an attempt to Graham, a native of Escondido, Iraqi Army Soldiers graduate from CLS course deter enemy actions and interact Calif., while speaking with an el- To combat the threat, two Soldiers controlled bleeding, treatment for burns with local citizens within the com- derly Iraqi woman as they passed Story, photo by from the 526th Brigade Support Battal- and fractures, and how to deal with closed munities. through a palm grove. Sgt. James P. Hunter ion, taught a three-day combat lifesaver’s airway breathing. Their combined effort in secur- She said the area is very quiet 2nd BCT PAO course that kicked off March 2 to 25 Iraqi They focused on the importance of ing these communities is just one and not too often does she run Army Soldiers from the 6th Iraqi Army working together and reinforced the fact of the many tools utilized to allow into outsiders. Division at Muthana Airfield, which is that the overall importance is saving a life, reconciliation efforts to succeed. The patrol was a success, with BAGHDAD – With the threat of roadside located in western Baghdad. The students said Green. During a recent mission March no indication of HME-related bombs and small-arms fire still evident on graduated from the course March 5. “It basically teaches the Iraqis the 7, Soldiers from 2nd Platoon of material being used or stored the streets of Baghdad, combat lifesavers The students’ hunger to learn and gain importance of medicine – the first-line Troop A patrolled alongside their in the area, said Carter, a squad play a vital role in providing immediate knowledge with regards to medicine was medical support and medical care,” said Iraqi Army counterparts in an leader with 2nd Platoon. How- aid to injured troops. evident during the course. It will enable Greene. If the combat lifesaver can treat attempt to quell the making and dis- ever, the Soldiers were able to log However, within the Iraqi Army, medi- them to, one day, be effective at saving a casualty and get him to a doctor, the tribution of homemade explosives many individuals within the area cine seems to take a back seat to other is- lives on the battlefield, said Staff Sgt. injured Soldier has a 75 percent greater south of Bakariyah. Sgt. Donghee Kim, a native of Orange Country, Calif., pulls security south into the Handheld Interagency of Bakariyah in western Baghdad March 7. The Soldiers patrolled the area sues with their medicinal knowledge at the Scott Greene, a native of Lake City, Fla., chance of survival. There had been reports of HME Identity Detection Equipment looking for possible locations of homemade explosives. Kim serves with 2nd Soldier and the unit level behind that of with Co. C. With qualified combat lifesavers in a being used and stored in the area, Platoon, Troop A, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd system, otherwise known as Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Multi-National the American forces encounter, said Spc. “They were very knowledgeable and platoon, it greatly strengthens the Iraqi said Sgt. Joshua Carter, a native HIIDE. Division – Baghdad. Jonathon Sprader, a native of Grafton, very intelligent students that were very Army life support system, added Greene, of Jonesboro, Ark. The explosives It is a biometric identifica- Wisc. hungry for knowledge,” Greene said. “The who said there is usually only one medic have been used in recent attacks tion database where Soldiers can Sprader serves with Company C, 526th more we taught, the more they wanted to per platoon. in Ameriyah, and the Soldiers wanted to identify possible locations quickly input and access certain information pertaining to the Iraqis Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade know about medicine.” “Obviously, medics can’t be every- where the materials could be stored. within the community. It stores such information as the name, age, Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division Within the course, Greene and Sprader, where, so that is why it’s important to Dismounted, they moved through the area side-by-side with the address, fingerprints and retinal of the individual. (Air Assault), Multi-National Division the course instructors, taught various have a combat lifesaver,” Greene said. IA troops rummaging through small huts, stationary vehicles, piles of see CAVALRY, pg. 14 – Baghdad. aspects of combat medicine, dealing with see CLS, pg. 16 the Iraqi Security Forces. have to pay for security. You have the right to live in a se- Hard Rock troops patrol Hurriyah, “We’ve got to instill as much confidence in the people for cure, free environment,” Griffis said. “It just means we have the Iraqi Army, because that is who they are going to have to get out there and get after it more.” ensuring safety and security of when we leave,” he said. They talk to the people, the local nationals of Hurriyah, to When they see the Iraqi Army on patrol they can begin to listen and try to understand their problems and come up with Iraqi local nationals earn their trust, especially when they see them doing good solutions to those problems. Most importantly, they are try- things, said Griffis. “They are their military, and they are ing to catch those men who these citizens are afraid of, said Story, photos by mander in the vehicle. here to help them.” Grosschmidt. “The more information we find on them then “No,” he fires back jokingly, “you give me money.” “When they see them patrolling I think it let’s the commu- the better we can help out the people.” Sgt. James P. Hunter nity know that the Iraqi Government is trying to help them,” “Every time you catch someone that is a step in the right 2nd BCT PAO Maybe the boy wanted money, maybe not. Really what he wanted was a conversation with the men he sees daily said Griffis. “It lets them know that Iraq is starting to stand direction,” added Griffis. “If you take one of those guys off patrolling through his streets, who continue to bring peace on its own two feet. Because that’s the bottom line; basically, the streets that does something in the community or neigh- BAGHDAD – Hurriyah is a very busy town in western Bagh- and prosperity to his worn-torn community. one day, we won’t be here. It’s up to the Iraqi Army to do the borhood you did it in, because they are all scared. These dad, littered with trash, shopping markets filled with “designer The Soldiers of Company A “Hard Rock,” 1st Battal- job we are doing.” guys do horrible things to them and they are frightened.” clothing,” and men, women and children alike who move ion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, The IA is coming along real well and Griffis is very im- These Soldiers work at a high level knowing, “When through the streets and try to carry on their life with what little 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), patrol the streets of pressed with their abilities and their potential. However, in we’re out at night they’ll go to sleep because they know the normalcy it may contain. Hurriyah daily in an attempt to quell insurgent and criminal the meantime, there are still issues that sit at their forefront. Americans are there,” said Griffis. A man in a wheel activity, and to improve One of the biggest problems is getting the people of Hur- And that is where the credit lies – with the Soldiers of chair maneuvers down “When we’re out at night [Iraqis] go to the economy, govern- riyah to talk, said Spc. Jake Grosschmidt, a native of Canton, Hard Rock who patrol these streets daily. an alley with his young ment, infrastructure and Ohio, who is currently attached to the company. “From the very beginning it’s been a tight-knit group of child clinging to the sleep because they know the Americans civil services. While on a joint patrol with the Iraqi Army, he went into a guys. You can’t separate these guys for nothing,” said Griffis. armrest of his father’s They often visit local small building where four Iraqi men were playing Dominoes. “They give a lot. There is not one person out there in our chair. The man struggles are there,” leaders in the com- He began asking questions, knowing they had some informa- platoon that won’t give 110% when asked.” to move himself down said Sgt. Brandon Griffis munity, and maintain a tion, but got nothing in response. “They know that their leadership is going to take care of the bumpy surfaced presence in what some “I just wanted to tell them that if they wanted a better them,” he continued. “And on the other hand you know that road; however, though 1st Platoon, Company A, 1-502nd Inf. Regt. would consider a very Hurriyah they need to start talking if they want to make it they will do anything you ask them to.” paralyzed to a wheel- dangerous area. Often, better for themselves. We do a lot for them but sometimes That is one of the reasons Griffis joined the Army in the chair, he still manages to nudge a smile as an American con- they speak with local nationals to gain an assessment on it’s up to the citizens to push the insurgents out themselves. first place – to watch his Soldiers grow. voy passes. their current living conditions, the enemy activity in the We need their help, it’s not just us. They’re just afraid.” “It’s amazing to watch them from the time they first He waves, as does his child, as the Soldiers, mounted in area and any tips that would help Coalition Forces take the And that is exactly what it is – the people of Hurriyah are come in until know,” he said. “They are seasoned Soldiers. their Humvees, wave back in acknowledgement. bad guys off the streets. scared of the militia’s operating in their area. They are combat proven. It’s amazing to sit back and watch One child on a bike approaches the convoy on the evening Partnered with the Iraqi Security Forces in the area, they “The groups we are fighting are in it for the money. Since something like that. I wouldn’t rather be anywhere else then of March 18 with a BMW hubcap wrapped around the frame. move through the streets of Hurriyah in an attempt to better the people are so innocent and scared they will do anything where I am right now.” “Mista, Mista, give me money,” he said to the truck com- the area and the ISF, said Sgt. Brandon Griffis, a native of for their own safety,” Pendleton, Ind., and weapons squad Grosschmidt said. “If leader for 1st “Black Sheep” Platoon, it’s paying those guys Co. A, 1-502nd Inf. Regt. Because, money then they’ll do overall, their mission is ensuring the it. The money they pay Iraqi Army is capable of standing on them goes toward weap- their own two feet and get the job ons.” done. These militia’s have a Often, according to Griffis, they fear instilled in the peo- train the IA at their compound in ple of Hurriyah, Griffis Hurriyah. They teach them basic first said. “So, sometimes it’s aid procedures dealing with applying difficult for people to a tourniquet, stopping bleeding and tell us information we resuscitation. They also teach them need to know. They are about land navigation and how to ma- scared.” neuver in an urban environment. With that, it just Though they patrol with them often, makes Griffis and his they continue to train them on patrol- men want to push out ling techniques, because just as Coali- into Hurriyah even more tion Forces do, it’s a technique they to let the people know must always practice, said Griffis. they will not stand for However, Griffis feels the biggest militia’s trying to dis- Pfc. William Simcoe, a native of Port Townsend, Wash., pulls security while on patrol in Hurriyah March problem when it comes to the growth rupt their way of life. 19. Simcoe and his fellow Soldiers conduct joint patrols with the Iraqi Army often, in an attempt to quell of the IA is the Iraqi citizens reliance “When we go out insurgent activity to help improve the economy, governance, infrastructure and civil services of Hurriyah. there the message we try Soldiers with 1st Platoon, Company A, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Simcoe serves with 1st Platoon, Company A “Hard Rock,” 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd on Coalition Forces, especially with Division (Air Assault), Multi-National Division – Baghdad, pull security while on a joint patrol with Iraqi Army Soldiers in the Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Multi-National Division – Baghdad. the many assets available to them in to spread is you don’t western Baghdad neighborhood of Hurriyah March 20. Page 8 Faces of the Heart Page 9

photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO Staff Sgt. Murk, a squad leader with 1st Platoon, Company D, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade courtesy photo Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), talks with a group of kids while patrolling the streets of Staff Sgt. Lawrence Brew is congratulated by the Strike Brigade S-6, Maj. Joe Kloiber, following his re-enlistment. Brew, a native of Kadhamiyah April 1. Warwick, R.I., has served in the Army for six years and plans on retiring from the U.S Army.

(Above) Pfc. Shawn Holt, a native of Nashville, pulls security in the now quiet western Baghdad neighborhood of Kadhamiyah April 2. Holt serves with 2nd Platoon, Company D, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Multi-National Division – Baghdad. (U.S. Army photo by. Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO, 101st Abn. Div., MND-B)

(Right) Sgt. Alexander Foust, a native of Bellefontaine, Ohio, prepares to jump from a building while inspecting a site in Kadhamiyah March 21. Foust serves with 1st Platoon, Company A, “Hard photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO Rock,” 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony Waller, command sergeant major, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), talks with the 4th 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Battalion, 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division’s sergeant major and company first sergeants, 1-75 photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO Multi-National Division – Baghdad. (U.S. Cav. company first sergeants, and Ghazaliyah Guardian leaders, during a meeting at Joint Security Army photo by. Sgt. James P. Hunter, Station Ghazaliyah II where they discussed possible improvements to checkpoints and guard tow- Pfc. Joseph Waszmer, a native of Patchogue, N.Y., pulls security during a dismounted patrol in the western 2nd BCT PAO, 101st Abn. Div., MND-B) ers among many other issues. Baghdad neighborhood of Hurriyah March 19. Waszmer serves with 1st Platoon, Company A, “Hard Rock,” 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). Page 10 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 11 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Total ‘Chaos’ Strike NCO & Soldier of the Quarter

Staff Sgt. SPC. Ariel Morales Matthew Hetrick

Company C Company D 1-75 CAV 1-502 INF

Following the fighting in Kadhamiyah, Coalition and ISF

Staff Sgt. Clay Craig, a native of Mesquite, Texas, with continue to secure the area Company C, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Story, photo by and the [Iraqi Army] was doing what they said 1st Lt. Paul Brown, a native of Canfield, Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air As- sault), pulls security inside an Iraqi families home while Sgt. James P. Hunter were supposed to be doing,” Capt. Brad Ohio, and platoon leader for 4th Platoon, Co. operating in northern Ghazaliyah March 29. 2nd BCT PAO Henry, a native of Andover Township, N.J., D. “As soon as my gunner was able to PID a commander, Co. D, 1-502nd Inf. Regt. “It guy he just started engaging him. They did an was weird, but nothing was out of the ordi- awesome job.” Coalition, ISF team together to combat threat BAGHDAD – Prior to fighting breaking nary.” “We weren’t running from the fight,” said out in Kadhamiyah, there were no signs of Once Henry got Henry. “We were going to secure Story, photo by soared through the air, engaging and killing three enemy combatants the possibility of Special Groups targeting back to the base, he the intersection and engage Sgt. James P. Hunter March 27. Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces. The big- received another tip targets of opportunity.” 2nd BCT PAO That same night, there were reports that 15-20 armed enemy gest threat to them was improvised explosive that 20 – 25 men were With Browns platoon under combatants were moving through the Jouadine Market in northern devices. massing in Kad- contact, however, decisively lay- Ghazaliyah carrying AK-47’s and rocket propelled grenades. However, once the violence began in hamiyah. He told the ing down the enemy, Rosenberg BAGHDAD – As violence heightened in northwest Baghdad, Soldiers with 3rd Platoon, Company C, 1st Squadron, 75th Basra and east Baghdad, the local citizens in companies 4th Platoon sent his platoon forward to sup- Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces teamed to combat the Cavalry Regiment, were sent in to either capture or kill these men the area began acting differently themselves. to investigate the tip. port them in their engagements. threat of any criminal activity. bringing havoc to the once quiet area. Apparently, insurgent criminals began spread- As soon as they came “So, we sent our trucks right The recent detention of four criminals in Ramaniyah, Joua- While moving through the market, a terrorist with an AK-47 ing the word to the local Iraqis to go into their to the intersection in behind them,” Rosenberg said. dine, and Katieb, may have contributed to the violence, said stood atop a roof top and engaged the passing Coalition Force con- homes and not come out. they were ambushed They had interlocking fire on the Sgt. Joseph Lorenzana, a New York City native, with Com- voy. After seeing the muzzle flashes coming from his rifle, they fired These criminals even marched in Kad- by Special Group enemy. “There was a lot of fire, pany C, 1st Squadron, 75th Squadron, 2nd Brigade Combat .50 caliber rounds into his position. hamiyah chanting, “Death to Maliki; Death to criminals. mostly RPGs.” Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), however, their It was late in the night, and everyone’s night vision goggles lit up Maliki.” “The entire area As they moved toward the site arrest may have curbed the attacks against coalition forces in like the Fourth of July. Coalition Forces even received a tip, basically blew up,” they too were fired upon at an the area. The night grew long, well into the following morning. Criminal March 28, that ISF checkpoints would come Rosenberg said. “They intersection. With the amount of “There was an increase in attacks,” said Capt. Terrence were wheeling lit tires into the street in hopes to white-out the Sol- under attack, said 1st Lt. Sam Rosenberg, called out, ‘We are RPGs and smalls arms fire being Higgins, a native of Point Pleasant, N.J., and commander of diers night vision goggles, possibly for a rocket-propelled grenade a native of Fort Myers, Fla., platoon leader in contact; we are in fired, and the numerous caches Sgt. Vicente Herrera, a native of Company C. “The checkpoints came under fire, so we were attack on the Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces operating the for 2nd Platoon, Company D, 1st Battalion, contact.’” Chicago, with 4th Platoon, Company hidden by the criminals in the sent to reinforce the checkpoints. Ultimately, we returned fire checkpoint. 502nd Infantry Regiment. So, three platoons Fighting broke out D, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regi- area, the right side of the road ment, pulls security along the Tigris when the enemy fired upon us.” It was a different environment, especially since Ghazaliyah had pushed out into sector and took their positions throughout the area. River in Kadhamiyah April 3. caught fire. The enemy fired rocket-propelled grenades, indirect fire, been quiet – free of much enemy contact. With the increased vio- to help reinforce the checkpoints – where they They were engaged Rosenberg’s platoon then saw small arms fire, and placed improvised explosive devices on lence in certain areas of Baghdad, the Government of Iraq imposed a sat for a few hours until it was determined with rocket propelled grenades and PKCs, an opportunity to push forward in to a market main avenues in and out of the area, said Higgins. three-day curfew, restricting unauthorized vehicles, motorcycles or there was not going to be an attack. and immediately started laying down fire to get a better angle of fire on the enemy. It was as if the war had begun anew. Hellfire missiles see CHAOS, pg. 23 “The streets were empty, but it was quiet on positively identified enemy combatants, see KADHAMIYAH, pg. 21 Page 12 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 13 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Soldiers train IA mechanics Train to Save Soldiers present CLS trauma kits to IA troops Story by Gathering in a semi-circle around Aleman, the Story by Story by dergoing lifesaving medical training. The training, combined with 2nd Lt. Nathaniel Beckett Iraqi mechanics listen intently to his instruc- Maj. Kevin Horde 1st Lt. Tabitha Hernandez the proper equipment, can make the difference in treating and saving tion on the role the manual plays in window Co. B., 526th BSB 1st Bn., 64th AR 1st Bn., 64th AR wounded IA Soldiers. replacement. It is slow going as every word is The IA medics are trained on using tourniquets, Israeli dressings translated, discussed, and clarified. and pressure dressings to control a hemorrhage, said Maj. Timothy BAGHDAD— Armed with replacement “This is a step-by-step process. Don’t take Friday afternoons are times for the Task BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army Soldiers with 1st Company, 3rd Hayden, executive officer, 1-64 AR. parts, Arabic technical manuals, and years of any short cuts and risk busting the window or Force Rogue medics, of the 1st Battalion, Battalion, 5th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, currently “We gave a quick briefing on the dressing and how to use it,” he experience, Staff Sgt. Dwayne Simpkins, a na- even worse installing it wrong,” said Aleman 64th Armor Regiment, to congregate at the headquartered in western Baghdad, were presented six combat added. tive of Detroit, and Spc. Alvaro Aleman, a na- as he drives his point home. After a while, all Darren P. Hubbell Battalion Aid Station lifesaver trauma kits March 8. Combat Life Saving skills are one of the key training objectives tive of Fresno, Calif., step out of their vehicles that can be said about procedure and safety for medical training that keeps life-saving The trauma kits were made possible by a Multi-National for Col. Raheem’s, the commander, for the IA’s 3rd Bn. March 8 at Joint Security Station Kadhamiyah has been said. It is now time to move onto the skills sharp and develops the abilities of Division – Baghdad Military Transition Team assigned to the “We are simply ensuring that our IA counterparts enjoy the same in northern Baghdad with the intent on training installation phase. the medics to recognize and treat a wide 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, which is based out of chance of survival we do should they take casualties,” said Hayden. and ensuring the Iraqi Army mechanics with Simpkins watches closely as the students array of ailments. Fort Stewart, Ga. “They have trained medics and Soldiers who are knowledgeable on the 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army start to disassemble the armor and window Medics use an approach to training that “These kits will allow the Iraqi Army to perform potentially first-aid; they just don’t have all the resources they need. Immediate Division keep their fleet of trucks on the road. frames. “These mechanics are pretty good; develops their presentation skills as well as lifesaving medical treatment at the point of injury,” said 1st medical attention at the point of injury is essential. Weekly, Soldiers from Company B, 526th they have been working on cars for years,” medical knowledge. Soldiers scheduled Sgt. Joseph Onove, 3rd Bn. IA Military Transition Team. “Now, IA Soldiers can provide buddy-aid and combat lifesaver Brigade Support Battalion, teach vehicle he said. to present a class to their peers are given The kits are designed to assist the Iraqi Army Soldiers in equivalent aid at the point of injury to potentially save lives prior to maintenance classes to Iraqi Army mechan- With two students working in front tak- about a week to hone their knowledge and treating wounded troops while they are transported to the near- evacuating the wounded to a hospital or higher level of care.” ics. The topic of this week is ballistic window ing off the bolts and armor, and two inside practice their presentations in a “Pow- est medical facility, he said. The kits contain badges, dressings They will continue to work with and through Rasheem’s bat- replacement. working on the air-conditioning brackets, the erpoint” format. This type of training and other trauma treating supplies. talion medics and medical providers to sustain their CLS and medic “It is all about not wasting time. We have window is out in a matter of minutes. develops the skills they will need as future Along with the trauma kits, the Iraqi Soldiers are also un- capabilities, said Hayden. between a few hours and half day to teach Then following the steps in reverse order, leaders and simultaneously reinforces their these guys about things that they could not they re-install the new window, bringing the tactical medical confidence. otherwise learn without us,” said Simpkins as exercise to a successful conclusion. This medical training not only provides Forward support company keeps combat arms troops fed he briefs the translator for the class. This week it was windows, and next week necessary re-iteration of medical knowl- Story, photo by within a month, three Soldiers were sup- but as headcounts stabilized and ration This is not the first time that Simpkins has it might be the transmission or fuel injectors. edge to create “muscle memory,” but also Capt. Brandon Williams porting a company plus size element with inventories increased, ration pushes were satisfies the requirement of continuing taught this group of mechanics. This is class Whatever it is, Simpkins and Aleman will be Co. F, 526th BSB a containerized kitchen. required only once every seven days. number five for him. ready to teach and help the Iraqi Army sustain education in order for all of the medics to The containerized kitchen is an expand- “We love working with the Soldiers; Without missing a beat, the class starts. itself. re-certify their National Registry of Emer- able container. The major features of the feeding them, keeping them happy and gency Medical Technicians Certification, ISKANDARIYAH, Iraq- Today’s field kitchen includes electric power, refriger- enjoying the camaraderie we get around and ultimately adding to the knowledge feeding support systems have to provide ated space, and the capability to perform the kitchen,” said Pfc. Charles Zander, a base of the Medics that train the Combat for the needs of the war fighter in all types roasting, grilling, boiling, frying, baking, cook, and native of Denver, Colo. Lifesavers in the battalion. of scenarios and conditions. In Iskandari- running water, a protected serving line, The Soldiers received minimal training Recent topics that have been trained yah, Iraq, field feeding Soldiers on the kitchen before deployment include Airway Management, intravenous with Company F, 526th Brigade due to receiving it with enough insertion, hemorrhage control, patient Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade time to load it and ship it to Iraq, assessment, communications, and basic Combat Team, 101st Airborne but they have since performed pharmacology, just to name a few. Division (Air Assault), have above the standard. In addition to these sessions, both the been providing field feeding sup- “The cooks have been an “Rogue PA” and “Rogue Doc” make regu- port to Soldiers of 2nd Battalion, instant morale booster for my Sol- lar contributions to the training. Recent 502nd Infantry Regiment, since diers. My Soldiers patrol all night news reports have touted the increased arriving to the Iskandariyah area. and it’s great when they can come incidence of Methicillin Resistant Staph Field feeding Soldiers with back and get a good hot meal,” Aureus (MRSA) infections in the US. the Company F, Forward Sup- said Detroit, Mich., native, Capt. The Rogue Doc presented an informative port Company are currently sup- Kaiwan Walker, Commander of lecture to the medics to help them properly porting troops in four different Co. D, 2-502 Inf. Reg. “I’m not recognize and treat suspected cases before locations in and around Forward sure how they do it, but the food they have the ability to progress. With the Operating Base Kalsu. is always great.” 2007-2008 flu season in full swing, the The Soldiers were initially The Soldiers’ typical day medics trained on what signs and symp- positioned at Patrol Base Cop- begins around 4:30 a.m. waking toms to watch for in their Soldiers as well Spc. Jason Croom, a native of Philadelphia, and Pfc. Charles Zander, a na- per supporting Soldiers from tive of Denver, Colo., prepare the evening dinner at Patrol Base Copper. up to prepare the breakfast meal. as the way to properly administer both the Company B, 2-502 Inf. Reg. At The field feeding Soldiers put the “Flu-mist” and the influenza vaccine as the photo by Spc. Alvaro Aleman, Co. B., 526th BSB this site, the field feeding Soldiers quickly and a ventilated exhaust system. meal out, serves it and prepares for lunch. annual rite of passage to the new year. Iraqi Army Soldiers prepare to replace a broken window during ballistic window replacement training set up the site initially supporting two Rations were initially pushed every For lunch, the Soldiers prepare short order March 8 at Joint Security Station Kadhamiyah in northern Baghdad. see TRAINING, pg. 14 platoons with a mobile kitchen trailer, but three days by the Distribution Platoon, see FOOD, pg. 17 Page 14 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 15 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat CAVALRY Iraqi Children are the future of a better Iraq Story, photo by dad, I approached nearly 10 children, do for the people of Iraq is amazing. “This is my first time getting hands on with the Sgt. James P. Hunter most of whom were girls and young, That is why I believe, and have always machine,” said Kim, who scanned their retinas and 2nd BCT PAO infant boys, while the platoon sergeant believed, the impression we leave them obtained fingerprints and background information. spoke with the man of the household. with will be a lasting impression. Their He said he believes it is a very good system, which They were a bit standoffish at first. attitude toward life and toward the U.S. will allow Soldiers to store information in accor- BAGHDAD—As I come upon the half- Then, to what some would think was in general will play a huge role in their dance with the area they patrol. way point of my second deployment to idiotic, I pulled out a pack of gum; future for the day we see these very “It’s a big factor in helping us succeed,” added Iraq, the one thing clearly sticks out in fruit flavored at that. So I passed out children taking control of this country. Carter. my mind is the children of Iraq. a piece to each one of them. Then for In January, when I was doing a Another factor in their mission success is the As we continue to build the justice what seemed like the next 10 minutes story on a toy drop to an Iraqi school, I improving abilities of the Iraqi Security Forces. system, the government, key infra- I gave them funny looks – to receive a remember a Soldier telling me a story The Soldiers also often patrol throughout Ameri- structure, and the Iraqi Security Forces great deal of laughter in turn – played of when he was 18 years old and toured yah and Bakariyah, visiting IA and Iraqi Police throughout this country, there is no a couple games of thumb war, and gave Europe. checkpoints to assess how well they are performing guarantee for immediate change, which out an uncountable amount of hand- He told me he was approached by an their job. almost seems unreasonable to expect a shakes. elderly Frenchmen who recognized him The IP and IA are manning their own check- country to completely do a 180 degree As 10 minutes passed we were ready as an American. The elderly Frenchman turnaround from former tyranny and op- to move onto the next home. This had very vivid memories of the kind- points and entry control points throughout the area. photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT pression of more than 30 years. time, however, we were mounting our ness that Americans had shown to the Carter said. Sgt. Joshua Carter, a native of Jonesboro, Ark., uses the HIDES system to capture the identity of an “For the most part, they are doing a lot better Iraqi man while on patrol south of Bakariyah in western Baghdad March 7. The Soldiers patrolled It takes time; time I believe we are vehicles and moving toward another children during World War II. the area looking for possible locations of homemade explosives. Carter is a squad leader with 2nd since I was here two years ago,” he said. “(They are) spending well as we interact with Iraq’s location. I told them all goodbye. He told me, “My grandfather had Platoon, Troop A, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, future leaders—the children. As we moved on foot toward our fought in Europe during the Second still a bit rough around the edges, but they are really 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Multi-National Division – Baghdad. coming along. I see potential in them.” As I patrol on foot throughout vehicles I turned back to see three of World War, and [the Frenchman] still During a two-day mission earlier in the month, Baghdad, quite often I run into children them sprinting my way. All they wanted wanted to express his appreciation and MND-B Soldiers and Iraqi Security Forces, working of all ages and sizes. They are full of was to say goodbye back, it seemed. I his gratitude for what America had done side-by-side with the Son’s of Iraq (Abna al-Iraq), smiles, laughs and an undeniable af- waved, and in turn, they waved back for his country when he was a child.” conducted a detailed search of homes in Ameriyah. fection toward U.S. forces. They love and headed home. Our impact on these children is and Taking the lead in the operation were the us; they truly do. Some even have said, What I am getting at is these chil- will forever leave a lasting, positive Iraqi Army troops from 2/1/6 IA. The combined “Mista, I love you,” though they may dren we see everyday watch us, respect impression for many years to come. operation was coordinated during an ISF meeting not truly understand what they are say- us and expect certain things from us. They are the future and we are having a between Col. Hassan, the 2/1/6 IA commander; Abu ing. Things like a safe and secure neighbor- positive impact on them and the country Abed, the leader of the Sons of Iraq in Ameriyah; We bring a different aspect of life hood. What we as American Forces of Iraq. and Hafath, the local Iraqi Police chief. to their somewhat mundane lifestyle. They were targeting certain individuals who Granted, they are kids, and children were wanted for previous criminal activities; how- can make fun of any situation, but ever, they were unable to capture the individuals. with curfews and the fear of violence They did, however, locate a small weapons cache within their communities it puts a sour and a terrorist training video. flavor to their mouths. “Further proof that the Iraqis can and are stand- They see us, the bluish-gray uni- ing up to take the lead,” said Lt. Col. Monty Wil- forms approaching, and they come loughby, commander, 4-10 Cav. Regt. running sometimes as fast as an Olym- pic sprinter. Side-by-side with their Iraqi counterparts, the photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT Soldiers will continue to patrol throughout Ameri- Sometimes Soldiers get annoyed An Iraqi Army Soldier with the 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, pulls security with the never ending “Mista, Mista.” yah and Bakariyah in an attempt to deter enemy while on patrol with Soldiers from the 2nd Platoon, Troop A, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, activity, thus helping to pave the way for reconcili- attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Multi-National Di- If they don’t want chocolate, then they vision – Baghdad, south of Bakariyah in western Baghdad March 7. The Soldiers patrolled the area want pencils. If it’s not your pencil, ation. looking for possible locations of homemade explosives. then it’s your watch. But it’s all in TRAINING casualty exercise attended by the battalion commander, Lt. Col. fun. They just want to talk to us. Edward Chesney, and Command Sgt. Maj. Martin, who had the I can’t even imagine how many opportunity to witness junior leaders in action. It is safe to say that handshakes I have created with the Future topics scheduled include: prevention and treatment they undoubtedly left with a renewed confidence that our medics and children on the streets of Baghdad, or of kidney stones, the common cold, heat and cold injuries, and our Soldiers are ready to meet the continuing challenge of providing how many kids I have given a high- finally with the culmination of all the training into a one-stop care and life saving practices to the Soldiers of the Desert Rogue five. patient treatment practical exercise. Battalion in order to support our mission of ensuring freedom to a Recently, while on patrol in Bakari- yah a neighborhood in western Bagh- An Iraqi boy holds his younger sister outside their home in a western Baghdad neighborhood south of Rogue medical training was recently tested in a mass more secure Iraq. Bakariyah March 7. Iraqi children remain the future to this battle-worn country. Page 16 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 17 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Schools officially open Mental Health clinic helps Soldiers cope with combat doors in Ameriyah There is no room for stereotypes in today’s Army Story by Sgt. Stephanie Brewster set front line, where support and combat cal Clinic Mental Health clinic are anger Story, photo by executive officer, 4th Squadron, 10th & Staff Sgt. Jason Wendell arms Soldiers can both find themselves in management, sleep hygiene, and smoking Cavalry Regiment. The schools in the area Sgt. James P. Hunter Co. C, 526th BSB harms way in the blink of an eye. cessation. Other capabilities include intake 2nd BCT PAO received some of the impact caused by the The United States military as a whole interviews, mental status exams for DoD enemy activity. has decided to take a more aggressive mandated schools and chapters, as well as However, the Sons of Iraq, in coordi- CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – What is the first stance towards treating and identifying individual counseling dealing with mental BAGHDAD – Following months of nation with the Iraqi Army and Coalition thing that you think of when you hear the mental health issues as soon as possible, health disorders, combat stress, relationship renovations, two schools in the western Forces, assisted in securing Ameriyah, words “Mental Health?” Some would say and ensuring that there are adequate pro- issues, family issues, work related issues, Baghdad neighborhood of Ameriyah of- bringing justice to the once war-torn area crazy or stressed; however, others have viders to address the issues that arise. and sleep problems. ficially opened their doors March 16. of western Baghdad, said Stephenson. stated “it’s just a place to vent.” There now exists routine screening, both The mental health team is respon- With the Deputy Minister of Educa- Attacks against the populace, and Historically, individuals that develop during and after deployments, to assist in sible for the mental well being of over tion, Dr. Nehad, present, the Firdous and Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces have health issues either physical or mental are identifying problems before they interfere 4,000 Soldiers and DoD civilians directly Al Rawadan Schools held ceremonies to dropped tremendously since securing the labeled as weak by their peers and com- with the lives of the Soldiers that have assigned to and attached to the Strike commemorate their openings. area, he said. rades, especially within the military com- experienced the stresses of deployment. Brigade. Laughter and excitement filled the air “We maybe have two or three attacks munity. Combat stress teams have been brought During this deployment alone, they have as children danced and sang to the beat in a week long period,” Stephenson said. In this day and time, those outdated ste- into the theater to address Soldier’s issues seen more than 500 soldiers in just over of musical instruments. The boys – some “Then it may have been 10 to 15 attacks reotypes must be eliminated. Mental Health close to where they work. There are now four months. dressed in soccer jerseys and dress shirt weekly.” care has come a far way from the way it mental health assets assigned directly to Although the stigma will probably and tie – chanted in celebration and With security set, it was time to begin used to be, but it unfortunately still carries each brigade support battalion and are pre- always be there, it is their responsibility as waved the Iraqi flag. The girls, who wore rebuilding the area. that same stigma. pared to support those soldiers assigned to Soldiers, NCOs and leaders to make that CLS their best spring dresses, read poetry and According to Stephenson, there are In wars past, upwards of 80% of mental the brigade combat team. The 2nd Brigade change, to make sure that Soldiers will be danced throughout the day. 17 schools in Ameriyah, and these two health casualties came from the front Mental Health section, assigned to Compa- willing to seek help if they need it, free of With two to three qualified combat Though the schools were open dur- schools were the first of a few they plan to line troops. In this current conflict, 60% ny C, 526th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd any bias or fallback if they choose to seek lifesavers per squad, he added, it cuts the ing the renovation process, this was an renovate. of those needing care by a mental health Brigade Combat Team, is comprised of the help. ratio down and strengthens the medical opportunity to celebrate the successes Windows were blown out, the electric- provider have been assigned to support Behavioral Health Officer, Capt. Patricia If you know someone that needs assis- program. within the community and to give back ity was bad and there was no emphasis on and combat service support organizations. Curry from Pana, Ill., the Mental Health tance in their life, be a friend or a confidant Greene and Sprader both said combat to those in the area who sacrificed so technology, he said. This was a Coalition This change has necessitated the creation noncommissioned officer-in-charge, Sgt. instead of a heel. If you feel that you can lifesaver’s play a vital role in combat. much especially during periods of serious Forces project; however, the contractor of more programs in the Army to help Stephanie Brewster hailing from Southside, not help them, show them the way. The The two served on Military Transition enemy engagements. who worked on the school and the work- individuals deal with this different type of Ala., and Mental Health Technician, Pfc. mental health professionals assigned to the Teams during their last deployment, Ameriyah was entrenched in con- ers he hired came from within Ameriyah. front line, where the stresses of combat are Joshua Matienzo of Levittown, Puerto brigade and working on the forward operat- treating both Iraqi Security and Coalition stant fighting a year ago, said Maj. Joel Coalition Forces simply ensured the not restricted to those who would normally Rico. ing bases within Combat Stress Teams are Forces. Stephenson, a native of Duluth, Minn., see SCHOOLS, pg. 19 be considered on the cusp of the battle. The Mental Health team’s capabilities ready and willing to help both you and “If it wasn’t for the combat lifesavers, The type of conflict that Soldiers have have grown to meet the demand of their your Soldiers overcome whichever obstacle 95 percent of them would be dead right found themselves in is much different than patients. Some of the programs that are you have found in your path. Not asking now … ,” Greene said. a typical engagement, where there is not a available at the Riva Ridge Troop Medi- for help is the only mistake you can make. The first few minutes, from the time a Soldier is injured, are the most critical, FOOD the shrimp scampi and chicken alfredo. We like to enhance the meals said Sprader. “It’s really important to get with vegetables, onions, and garlic, or corn on the cob.” everyone trained up to act instantly so The Soldiers have also received accolades from Maj. Gen. Rick there’s no dead time when a Soldier is meals and lunch meat for their combat arms comrades to enjoy. Lynch, commanding general of the 3rd Infantry Division, and the wounded.” The longest part of the day occurs between lunch and the battalion commander, Lt. Col. Michael Getchell, and Command Sgt. Though the course was only three time the dinner meal is served. This part of the day includes Maj. Kevin Benson are regulars for their meals. days long, Sprader said he hopes what his filling burners and a generator, ensuring the conex is at the “The toughest part of the job is falling in on a new site as Soldiers team taught within the course will prove right temperature, counting rations, and conducting equipment rotate between the four sites of Joint Security Site Haswah, JSS to be beneficial. maintenance. Iskandariyah, JSS 18 and PB Copper,” said Staff Sgt. Prentice Harris, “I hope that what I taught them is A midnight meal consisting of soup and other small items a native of Fort Valley, Ga., and food service noncommissioned of- going to be helpful if it needs to be ap- are also occasionally prepared for the Soldiers. ficer-in-charge. Soldiers rotate between the four sites as well as back plied,” he added. The Soldiers feed between 90-120 Soldiers a day at each to work in the dining facility during refit periods, and personnel are Of the 25 graduates, four were women site. often an issue. from the Headquarters and Service Bat- “This deployment is more hands on than the last,” said Supporting several patrol bases in Iraq appeared to be a daunting tery, 6th IA Division. Six of the students Spc. Nicholas Opielski, from Trenton, N.J. “I love having task at first. It was only through the creativity of each Soldier and will move onto Camp Taji to become the freedom to do meals that you want and changing it up and NCO and careful planning that the field feeding section has beenable qualified Iraqi Army medics. Iraqi girls dance during a performance in celebration of the official opening of the newly renovated Firdous School in the western Baghdad neighborhood of Ameriyah March 16. tailoring the meal to your own. I love the steak meal, and also to succeed in its mission. Page 18 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 19 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Strike Soldiers tremendous work ethic helps Iraqi Police make positive accomplish the mission impact in Adil Story, photo by Story by Sgt. James P. Hunter 1st Lt. John Morgan 2nd BCT PAO 1st Bn., 64th AR

The life of Pfc. Christopher Stephenson ADIL, Iraq— Earlier this month, members of the new Adil began two decades ago and has devel- Police force distributed school supplies to the Al-Adil Primary oped over time while growing up in Fort school in an effort to display their commitment to not only the Wayne, Ind. security of Adil but also the welfare of its citizens. Stephenson, 20, a gunner with 1st This school supply mission allowed the Adil Police Force Platoon, Company A, “Hard Rock,” 1st to interact with members of the Adil community outside of Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd their normal police duties as well as to develop an amicable Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne bond between the Adil Police Force and the citizens of the Division (Air Assault), grew up playing community they serve. baseball, football and skateboarding. His The goal of this mission was to demonstrate to the local Iraqi Police are very warmly welcomed by school children as they distribute school supplies at the Al-Adil Primary School true love, however, was baseball where he populace that their police officers share a commitment to played for his church as a catcher. Adil and its future. This partnership will in turn create a trust information in a judicious manor.” If he wasn’t playing baseball, he was between the citizens and the police force which will allow the The school supply distribution was considered a great success going to school and working to earn his police to more effectively perform their duties. by everyone involved. The children received backpacks, notebooks, certification as a computer technician. Maj. Thumar, the IP station chief in Adil, said, “When the pencils, rulers and other supplies which will make their school year citizens of Adil understand that we have a vested interest in more productive. The children of the Al-Adil school enjoyed spend- “I was always good with computers,” he Pfc. Christopher Stephenson, a native of Fort Wayne, Ind., patrols through the streets of Hurriyah March said. 19. Stephenson serves as a gunner with 1st Platoon, Company A, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, the success and future of Adil they will be more willing to ing the morning with the Iraqi Police Officers and welcomed the He worked at a computer store, until 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Multi-National Division – Baghdad. come to us with information and trust that we will act on that officers back anytime. he received his certification and became a His father, who had worked as a me- however, he was going to change himself senior technician mentoring future techs. chanic at the same job since he was 18, and his appearance. Life wasn’t always fun or easy for never gave up at the chance of moving up Upon graduating from North Side High Two weapons caches found in Shaka 3 area Stephenson while growing up. Just like the ranks within the company. School in 2006, he had to make a decision Story by pany C, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry DSHKA rounds. many people in life, he had obstacles he Stephenson, who will turn 21 in June, on what to do next. He knew he didn’t 4th BCT PAO, 3rd Inf. Div. Regiment, to the first cache March 24. “This is a testament to their willing- had to maneuver around prior to getting to didn’t have a lot growing up in his life want to go to school for another four The cache consisted of 38 rifle grenades, ness to come forward with information where he is today. Just like any kid he got until his dad finally landed the managers years. FOB KALSU, Iraq - Sons of Iraq mem- 64 OG-15P grenades, 27 OG-9 rockets, because they want to live a better life,” in trouble. job. It showed Stephenson that giving up “I wanted to do something,” he said. “I bers and an informant provided informa- 21 PG-9 rockets, two OG-7 rockets and said Capt. Raub Nash, commander of However, there to pick him back up was never an option. just decided that I wanted to do something tion to Coalition force Soldiers that led to one anti-tank mine. Company C. whenever he was down in my life. I was like ‘well I two weapons caches March 24 and 25 in The second cache was discovered This is the fifth cache the unit has was his father who is an have always been active my the Shaka 3 region of Iraq. the following day based on a tip from found in the area in the past 10 days, said inspiration in his life. “I just decided that I wanted to do whole life.’” SOI members led Soldiers with Com- an informant. The cache contained 400 Nash. “I really think something in my life,” Stephenson saw how his without my dad I would brother, who served as a SCHOOLS into the school. have got in a lot of Marine and was another big “There were no computers; no emphasis on any type of trouble,” Stephenson influence in his life, had did technology,” Stephenson said. “They are trying to get the most said. “I had a lot of said Pfc. Christopher Stephenson well with his life during his project went through and was done correctly. advanced equipment in these schools so their kids can have friends who got in a lot 1st Platoon, Company A, 1-502nd Inf. Regt. service. “I think it’s mostly transparent to the Iraqis” Stephen- the best available education.” of trouble who are in He thought, “The Army son said. “They are obviously appreciative to what we The schools in Ameriyah, which are historically known jail right now.” is going to give me a lot of do, but they also recognize the Ministry of Education for having successful education systems, are not only for the “Without my dad’s influence on me Even when he gained nearly 80 pounds benefits and I can still serve my country. and the Government of Iraq was involved in this and children to have a place to learn, but is also a source of pride I would have probably been a lot worse when he hurt his knee during winter train- I will be able to get myself back active that’s a good thing. It builds legitimacy when they see for the Iraqi citizens within the community, said Stephenson. off,” he continued. ing for his baseball team, he never quit. and that’s one of the reasons I joined the the Iraqi government, and they see some of their local Even when things were bad last summer with enemy activ- His father, who was once an alcoholic, “I hurt myself during winter training infantry instead of doing computers or governments doing things for their community.” ity the Headmaster at the Al Rawadan School made it a point taught Stephenson you can’t find hap- and after that I stopped playing baseball anything with what I was already trained The schools both have generators running power and to ensure the kids came to school to experience some sort piness at the bottom of a bottle. He also and football, I just didn’t do anything and for. That gave me the motivation to loose electricity into the buildings, new desks, bathrooms, and of normalcy and better themselves as Iraqi citizens through taught him maybe the most important that is when I first started getting fat,” all the weight.” new lights and fixtures. The foundation and the walls in education. lesson in life. If he worked hard, his hard Stephenson said. “I got myself up to 250 And that is exactly what he did. From one school were beginning to crack so the contractor was The schools Headmaster’s told Stephenson through recent work would pay off and he would succeed, pounds.” the time he joined the Army till the end of able to fix that as well. discussions they are really proud of their students and how Stephenson said. There were bumps along this path; see STEPHENSON, pg. 21 Also, new computers with internet access were put intelligent they are. Page 20 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 21 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat KADHAMIYAH “They proved they were there to stay and fight,” Henry said. “The On Patrol with Hard Rock & first night out, all there guys were manning their [tactical checkpoints]; The Children of Iraq they were securing the intersections they needed to secure.” Fourth platoon shifted fire as Rosenberg’s platoon pushed up into The Iraqi Army battalion is responsible for manning checkpoints in what they know call “Death Valley.” the out muhallahs around Kadhamiyah, said Henry, and did a good job “On the right side there was a huge fire and to my left were al- not letting anyone within. leyways,” Rosenberg said. They pulled security down alleyways and They secured alleyways, which insurgents were using to maneuver were receiving fire from there also. and fire upon Coalition and ISF, Henry said. “They are reliable.” “It was a shooting gallery; guys were popping out of everywhere,” Maybe it was a true testament of how far the Iraqi Army has come. he said. Insurgents were popping out from corners and firing rounds, Nearly a year ago when Co. D, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment while others stood atop balconies and rooftops and snuck in pop shots; of the 82nd Airborne Division controlled the area they came under a however, it had no effect on the Soldiers. similar attack from Special Groups forces, said Henry. “The gunners did an awesome job,” said Rosenberg. Initially the The Soldiers in the unit went to arrest a group of criminals at a platoon sergeants truck was in the lead. building in Kadhamiyah and were ambushed as well, he said. How- One RPG hit right in front of his truck, then as the criminal came ever, the IA did not help with the fight at all. back from behind his corner to fire, he was hit with .50 cal rounds. The “The IA was seen giving weapons to the enemy and pointing out gunner, Pfc. Hunter Bruns, saved his fellow comrades from being hit American positions,” Henry continued. “We didn’t see any of that hap- with an RPG. pen this time. They were here to fight.” According to Rosenberg, the platoon sergeants exact words were, The IA Soldiers played vital role securing a key checkpoint during “He saved my truck.” the engagements, he said. Along the Tigris River, on one of the main “Pfc. [Hunter] Bruns was absolutely incredible,” said Rosenberg. routes in Kadhamiyah, the IA secured the TCP and allowed freedom “He was unloading on guys 150 meters away from him and shooting of movement for Coalition and ISF to push a good amount of combat controlled pairs at their head.” power into the fight at any

Sgt. Alexander Foust, a native of Bellefontaine, Ohio, Really, he can’t say enough about given time. walks alongside a group of Iraqi children during a how his platoon and the rest of the “I think the IA did very dismounted patrol in Hurriyah March 21. Foust serves with 1st Platoon, Company A “Hard Rock,” 1st Battalion, company performed that night and well during the incidents,” 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, over the next couple of days. Brown said. “They manned 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Multi-National Divi- “My guys did awesome. With their checkpoints and didn’t sion -- Baghdad. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. James Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO, 101st Abn. Div., MND-B) the exception of fours guys, it was run and leave. They did what every ones first time in contact,” they thought was right. said Rosenberg. “So, you expect The Iraqi Army withstood everyone to be nervous but their enemy contact and helped training kicked in. Everyone was secure key terrain during the BSTB chemical Soldiers put their skills to work calm, controlled and did their job conflict. perfectly. You’ve got 18 and 19 year The attacks set by the Story by cal Soldiers of the platoon got a chance neutralize a base, an acid is needed. For old Soldiers dealing with getting enemy combatants were very Staff Sgt. K.M. Yocom-Delgado to use their skills as “Dragon Soldiers.” the mission at hand, Sprite soda pop shot at for the first time and they did complex to say the least. HHC, 2 BSTB They were a part of an important clean was used as the acidic liquid. Approxi- as well as anybody could have ever Henry believes the Special up in a building that housed Soldiers mately 15 cases of Sprite were obtained asked.” photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT Groups set themselves up from 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regi- to decontaminate the areas that had been For Pfc. Eric Weekly, a native of An Iraqi Army Soldier looks through his binoculars while pulling security from his around the Kadhamiyah Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Spe- ment on JSS Ameriyah. affected. After careful cleanup and Urbana, Iowa, and gunner for 1st Humvee at a checkpoint in Kadhamiyah April 1. Shrine, setting boundaries cial Troops Battalion RECCE Platoon After a short meet and greet with testing of the area, the Soldiers proved Platoon, Co. D, it was his first time around them as their defensive set aside their Explosive Ordnance De- 4/181 Chem., the two units combined that the threat no longer existed. The coming into contact with the enemy and he made the most of it. perimeter. They used explosively formed projectiles as a protective tachment escort gun trucks and picked and moved out to JSS Ameriyah with team then proceeded through a final “We were sitting on Route Vernon facing northeast, and an RPG barrier on the outside perimeter, hoping Coalition and ISF would cross up their M40 Protective masks. Their the morning chow run for 4-10 Cav. self-decontamination and equipment flew over the truck from the west,” he said. “We swung around to PID their outer boundary, come under attack from EFPs and other explo- mission was to link up with a platoon Upon arrival, and after a quick mis- tear down. the guy and he shot another one. We got positive identification and sives, and finally finish them off with RPGs and small arms fire. from 4/181 Chemical Company and sion brief, teams split up to either set “This was a great opportunity, you engaged him with about ten rounds of .50 cal. and shot the guy as he However, that was not the case. “We smacked them pretty good,” conduct a clean up and decontamination up a decontamination line, suit up into learn this stuff and hope you don’t went to shoot the third one. That was my first confirmed kill.” said Henry. “We were very careful not to push into their perimeter.” mission in a portion of a basement at protective gear or prepare overpack con- have to use it, but you get to see how Altogether, Rosenberg believes the company killed an estimated 12 Now, Henry believes, especially with the damage the caused to the Joint Security Station Ameriyah. tainers for use. The cleaning up of the important it is with a mission like this” insurgents. insurgent forces, they have either left town or went into hiding, which The mission at hand was to clean solid chemical proved to be a test of en- said Spc. Joshua Breen, Utica, NY na- However, the U.S. troops weren’t the only ones who stayed in the is allowing life to get back to normal in Kadhamiyah. up approximately 400lbs of chlorine durance, organization and teamwork as tive. The platoon sergeant, Staff Sgt. fight, doing what they could to eliminate any enemy activity. The local citizens are moving about the area again, and the shops hydroxide. It was a business as usual the different teams worked hand-in-hand Keptrick Ruffin, a Butler, Ala., native, According to Henry, he believes the Special Groups criminals ex- are open. the markets are not as busy as usually, which is understand- task for the members of 4/181 Chemical to fill, secure, and label all containers of grinning with pride, said, “We had been pected the Iraqi Army Soldiers from the 5th Battalion, 22nd Brigade, able because the people are still a bit apprehensive. Company, but was a unique opportunity chemicals as safely as possible. to a lot of training to do a mission like 6th Iraqi Army Division to lay down their arms; however, that was not The Iraqi Army Soldiers will continue to man checkpoints in Kad- for the 2nd BSTB Soldiers. Normally As clean up of the chemicals ended, this; they all did an outstanding job. I the case. Once the insurgents saw that the IA were staying, they had to hamiyah to deter any enemy combatants from entering the area as the tasked to escort 731st EOD, the chemi- the decontamination process began. To am really proud of them.” change their game plan. daily lives of the people return to normal, said Brown. Page 22 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 23 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat CHAOS “Right now we have reinforced the MND-B Soldiers seize Sergeant Audie Iraqi Army checkpoints,” said Higgins. “Basically to prevent IA from getting key target, cache Murphy Award pedestrian traffic movement. killed or captured; we are reinforc- Story by While sitting a Joint Security Sta- ing our partnership with the IA and 2nd BCT PAO tion Ghazaliyah III, a Son of Iraq fighting along side them to help bring [Abna’a al Iraq] member, said the security to their country.” Sgt. Kyle Busby people of Baghdad are scared of these Currently, the ISF are manning BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division criminal – they absolutely fear them. checkpoints, searching vehicles, and – Baghdad Soldiers capture key criminal 1-64 AR They have good weapons, because, to enforcing the curfew on the vehicle suspects also led to the seizure of a weapons his belief, they have the money to pur- ban to reduce any criminal activity in cache in the Mansour District in northwest- chase these weapons, which come from and around the area, he said. However, ern Baghdad March 19. Sgt. Kyle Busby, a native of Clinton, Ill., with 1st Battalion, 64th selling drugs, ransom from kidnappings this is nothing new to the Iraqi troops Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 32nd Field Armor Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, or money from outside supporters. who operate in the area. Even prior Artillery Regiment, attached to the 2nd Bri- 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), competed and was ac- To ensure no further criminal activ- to the violence, they were conduct- gade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division cepted into the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club for his excellence ity or supplies pushed through the area, ing joint patrols and joint checkpoint (Air Assault), captured the individual during as a noncomissioned officer. Iraqi Security Forces and Soldiers from operations. a mission to capture him. Co. C, 1-75 Cav., continue to man a “They are partnered with us, helping While the Soldiers detained the indi- STEPHENSON talk to people they really do understand you with what broken Ara- critical checkpoint in the area. us strongpoint the checkpoint,” Hig- vidual, Iraqi Security Forces provided a ring bic you know and the broken English they know, and with the hand The checkpoint sits at one of the gins said. The Iraqi Army is sticking by of security. gestures. main routes going into the Jouadine their “guns,” letting the people of Iraq The suspect is allegedly a mid-level lead- Basic Combat Training, Stephenson went from 250 pounds, “I thought it was going to be a lot different,” Stephenson contin- and Ramaniyah area, and is key in know they are on the side of the Iraqi er of al Qaeda in Iraq who is believed to be down to 170 pounds, where he weighs in at today. ued. “I didn’t expect people to be waving at us and coming up to us. blocking all criminal influence from government and won’t be influenced responsible for conducting several vehicle- Stephenson arrived at Fort Campbell, Right now it just seems a lot more peaceful the east in Hurriyah, said Higgins. by any insurgent or criminal groups. borne improvised explosive device attacks Ky., in October of 2007 just as the Brigade then I could have ever imagined. It’s a dif- throughout Baghdad and southern Iraq. was coming back from its deployment. ferent world.” “His capture will likely provide us with The first person he met was Sgt. Brandon Though a different world, many miles the information we need to capture other Griffis, his current squad leader. away from his homeland in Fort Wayne, AQI members” said Capt. H. Eric Perez- “When I first met him he was like any Stephenson is adapting to the situation Rivera, assistant military intelligence officer other new guy: scared and timid,” said and helping accomplish the mission of the for 2nd BCT. Griffis, a native of Pendleton, Ind. securing and improving the area. After Soldiers detained him, they The first thing Griffis mentioned to Ste- “He’s got a tremendous work ethic,” searched his house and discovered a cache of phenson was that the guys in his platoon Griffis said. “If you give him something to weapons behind a hidden wall. were going to become brothers as they do he will get it done. If he can’t figure it The cache consisted of 14 AK-47 rifles, prepared and conducted their next mission out he’ll go ask somebody else. He’s a go- three rocket propelled grenade launchers, six in Iraq. getter. I think with some more professional 9 mm handguns, various hand grenades and “We did a lot of training, a lot of dis- development down the road he’ll be a good other munitions. The cache also contained mounted stuff,” Stephenson said about his leader.” seven landmines, detonation cord and other training at Fort Campbell as they prepared With the potential Stephenson has, improvised explosive device making materi- for their deployment. “We trained so much Griffis said, it will be hard for the Army to als. back at Fort Campbell. Honestly a lot of loose someone like him. However, “I am The cache was turned over to an Explo- the training we did back there was harder sure whatever he does after the Army he’ll sive Ordinance Detachment for disposal. than what we do here.” be good at it.” “This is another example of what the Now, Stephenson serves with Hard After his enlistment is up, Stephenson partnership of Iraqi Security and Coalition Rock’s 1st Platoon where he works as a plans to work as a police officer, maybe photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO forces can produce”, said Maj. David Hollis, gunner, running day and night missions doing computer forensics, he said. Soldiers with Company C, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st 2nd BCT spokesman. “This arrest, coupled in the western Baghdad neighborhood In the meantime, he will continue to photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO Airborne Division (Air Assault), take cover behind a Humvee after receiving small arms fire in northern with the cache find, is another step toward a of Hurriyah patrolling the streets in an plan for his wedding in the Summer of Ghazaliyah March 27. Violence erupted in the area following the detention of four criminals; however, safer and more unified Iraq.” Pfc. Christopher Stephenson, a native of Fort Wayne, Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces teamed together to maintain security in the area. attempt to defeat criminal and insurgent Ind., pulls security from his gunner position while 2009 to his fiancé, and continue to bond activity, while simultaneously improving others step from the Humvee over a wall to inspect a with his brothers just as Griffis told him he suspicious site in Kadhamiyah March 21. Stephenson the economy, government and infrastruc- serves as a gunner with 1st Platoon, Company A, would. ture within the community. 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade “Sometimes we have disputes, but when “Strike” Brigade Combat Team When asked to describe Iraq, Stephen- Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), it comes to going out on missions we are Multi-National Division – Baghdad. son said, “Another world.” all really in synch because we have been 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) “It’s way different than anything I ever doing the same training and mission to- expected. I expected it to be a lot worse,” he said. “Everybody gether,” Stephenson said. “One of the reasons I like Alpha Company Operation Iraqi Freedom speaks a different language. Surprisingly, though, when you so much is because they are all my boys.” In Memoriam We Shall Never Forget...

“The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he lead- eth me beside still waters. He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in paths of righteousness for his name sake. Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for Thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table for me in the presence of mine enemies; thou annointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord, forever,” Psalm 23 R

SFC SHAWN SUZCH CPL SCOTT MCINTOSH COMPANY D COMPANY D 1-64 ARMOR REGIMENT 1-64 ARMOR REGIMENT

SSG ERNESTO SSG DAVID JULIAN CIMARRUSTI COMPANY D COMPANY D CPL ROBERT MCDAVID 1-64 ARMOR REGIMENT 1-64 ARMOR REGIMENT COMPANY D 1-64 ARMOR REGIMENT COMPANY D, 1-64 AR