October 29, 2008

www.dvidshub.net (search phrase: Expeditionary Times) Vol. 1, Issue 19 Interpreters help “bridge the gap” Mission melting pot See page 4 story on pg. 5

NCOs take first step New NCOs take part in induction ceremony signifying their new leadership role See pages 8-9

Women pave the way A look at how things have changed for women in the Photo by Sgt. Aaron LeBlanc military over the years Members of the 165th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 1st Sustainment Brigade, participate in a transfer of authority ceremony held at Camp Taji, Iraq, April 21, signifying the moment at which the 165th assumed responsibility for the battlespace formerly con- See page 11 trolled by the 1103rd CSSB. 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) extends helping hand to interested voters by Spc. Anthony Hooker dents and visitors of JBB, Acosta Expeditionary Times staff said the 3d ESC was able to reach a “Going through the absentee voting pro- significant amount of people. JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq Having assisted nearly 200 vot- – Voting assistance officers of the ers in an earlier voter registration 3d Sustainment Command (Expedi- cess was very convenient and easy . . . it drive, Acosta said the number of tionary) held two federal voting ab- participants assisted tripled, largely sentee ballot drives Oct. 15-16 and was a painless process.” by word – of – mouth. Oct. 20-22 at the Eastside Morale, “Most people I have talked to Sgt 1st Class Odell Smith Welfare, and Recreation facility. said they have never (experienced) 1st Battalion, 293rd Infantry Regiment The events were part of the 3d this type of approach,” said Acosta. ESC’s effort to register or assist “When people get a one-on-one ap- Servicemembers and civilian em- ESC; Capt. Kelvin Acosta; and Sgt. ficulty receiving a ballot from their team came to MWR East to do proach, they feel more comfortable, ployees who wished to submit an 1st Class Albert Gardner provided home area. whatever was necessary to help citi- like they are taken care of.” absentee ballot for the Nov. 4 gen- absentee ballots along with voting Acosta, VAO for the 3d ESC’s zens cast a vote before the Novem- eral election. assistance material for new voters, Headquarters Company, and a Sa- ber elections. By providing their Maj. James Hess, VAO for the 3d or guidance for anyone having dif- linas, Puerto Rico, native, said the services at a site that entertains resi- See VOTE, Page 10 PAGE 2 Expeditionary Times October 29, 2008 PMO Blotter: 17 Oct. – 23 Oct. Minor Vehicle Accident: An Air Force servicemember notified security forc- es, via telephone of a minor vehicle accident. SF patrols arrived on scene and made contact with the vehicle operator, who stated that while attempting to negotiate a turn, his tractor trailer struck another parked trailer. Damage consisted of a bent strut bar on the tractor. A report was completed on scene. The Servicemember was instructed to report the incident to his chain of command and report to security forc- es in 72 hours to acquire a copy of the report. UXO Discovery: An Air Force member reported finding unexploded ordnance on Texas Ave. Security forces, Fire De- partment, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal re- sponded. Additional SF patrols responded, evacu- ated buildings, and set control points for the cordon. EOD personnel then detonated the UXO in-place. Minor Vehicle Accident: An Air Force Servicemember notified the security forces, via telephone, of a minor vehicle accident. Photo by Spc. Anthony Hooker The SF patrols arrived on scene and made contact Iraqi Children cross the Euphrates river to meet Soldiers July 30 in Al Batha, Iraq. with the vehicle operator. The Servicemember stat- ed while attempting to maneuver around another ve- hicle, she struck a drainage pipe. The damage to the The fish doesn’t know about the Culture Points vehicle consisted of a bent and re-positioned bum- per. The Servicemember was instructed to report the water until you take him out of it. 1. For Iraqis, having a big fam- incident to her chain of command and report to SF ily is a great achievement – this in 72 hours to obtain a copy of the report. ing our mission because we just do not by Angela M. Aube is a basic right that every per- Informational Entry/Vehicle Damage: TRADOC Culture Center understand how someone else could be so The JDOC was notified via telephone of a vehicle wrong about everything. Being a fish out son and animal deserves (They that had suffered damage due to the indirect fire FORT HUACHUCA, Az. – Often in the of water can be difficult, confusing, and are very opposed to spaying and attack. SF patrols were dispatched to the vehicle’s military, we are thrust into new environ- potentially dangerous. It is important that neutering animals). ments that are much different from our we learn to function in new environments location to ascertain the damages. The damage con- 2. Blood money can only be sisted of a chipped windshield and a broken passen- own. Remember that first day at Basic as efficiently as possible. ger headlight. Digital photos were taken to record Training: Many of us were introduced to The key to communicating and operat- paid after an apology is given. the damage. a new world that we did not know existed. ing in another country—another culture— 3. Noah lived in Iraq; many bib- Attempted Theft of Government Property: The same can be said for being deployed is to first understand ourselves. How do lical events and people are cen- A civilian contractor notified security forces of an to a different region of the world—even if we view the world? What do we value and tered in Iraq. attempt to steal government fuel. While refueling we have already been there before. believe? More importantly: why? When his vehicle, a civilian attempted to go beyond the al- So, what does the quote “The fish we are placed in these new environments, 4. Private property has been lowable supply by bribing the fuel attendant. Secu- doesn’t know about the water until you we are forced to ask ourselves these ques- an Iraqi value for nearly 5,000 rity forces responded and completed a written state- take him out of it” mean? It means that tions. When we find the answers to these years. ment on-scene. The complainant was instructed to we can never quite be prepared for enter- questions, we are more prepared for the Submitted by William S. Parrish report this violation to his chain of command and ing a new region. As humans immersed in missions ahead of us—understanding our report to security forces after 72 hours to obtain a our culture, we are often not aware of our allies and enemies—and better positioned We invite you to…. copy of the report. own individual and collective cultures un- to return home safely. Please send comments, ideas, or ques- til we are thrust into these new situations. So, the final question is: If you are tak- tions about cultural situations you may Contact the Provost Marshal Office: Being confronted with people who have a en out of your home waters, are you going have encountered to the Editor. Also, NIPR- 443-8602 completely different worldview and who to suffocate or are you going to learn to please forward any topics you would like SIPR- 241-1171 think in a different way can be challeng- breathe in a new way? to learn more about! Email- [email protected] ing. We may find difficulty in complet- [email protected]

EXPEDITIONARY TIMES 3d ESC Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Mike Lally Contributing Public Affairs Offices Expeditionary Times is authorized for publication by Managing Editor Expeditionary Times NCOIC d 1st Sustainment Brigade the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) for Maj. Paul Hayes, 3 ESC Staff Sgt. Tim Sander, 215th MPAD [email protected] [email protected] 16th Sustainment Brigade the Joint Base Balad community. The contents of the 371st Sustainment Brigade Expeditionary Times are unofficial and are not to be 215th MPAD Commander Photo Editor considered the official views of, or endorsed by, the 7th Sustainment Brigade Maj. Timothy Horton, 215th MPAD Sgt. Gary Hawkins, 215th MPAD 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing U.S. Government, including the Department of Defense [email protected] [email protected] or Operation Iraqi Freedom. 20th Engineer Brigade Expeditionary Times is a command information 215th MPAD NCOIC Layout and Design 55th Sustainment Brigade newspaper in accordance with Army Regulation 360-1 Sgt. 1st Class David Zerbe, 215th MPAD Spc. Ryan Hohman, 215th MPAD 402nd Army Field Support Brigade and reviewed by the ESC G2 for security purposes. [email protected] [email protected] CJSOTF-AP

Expeditionary Times is published weekly by the Stars d 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and Stripes central office, with a circulation of 5,000 3 ESC PAO NCOIC Staff Writers Sgt. 1st Class David McClain, 3d ESC Spc. Anthony Hooker, 215th MPAD Task Force 34 papers. [email protected] [email protected] The Public Affairs Office is located on New Spc. Charlotte Martinez, 215th MPAD Distribution Jersey Ave. Building 7508, DSN 318-433- 3d ESC G2, Security Manager [email protected] Sgt. Geno L. Gardner, 215th MPAD 2154. Expeditionary Times, HHC 3d ESC, Lt. Col Dale Davis, 3d ESC Spc. Michael Behlin, 3d ESC [email protected] APO AE 09391. Web site at www.dvidshub.net [email protected] [email protected] Pfc. Amanda Tucker, 3d ESC Contact the Expeditionary Times staff at: [email protected] [email protected] Mission Statement: The Expeditionary Times Staff publishes a weekly newspaper with a primary mission of providing command information to all Servicemembers, part- ners, and Families of the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) team and a secondary mission of providing a means for units on Joint Base Balad to disseminate command information to their audiences. October 29, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 3 Army Material Commander visits 3d ESC ‘Hooah’ Soldier of the week

Photo by Spc. Michael Behlin Photo by Spc. Charlotte Martinez Sergeant 1st Class Nathan Havice, a Oakridge, Ore., native and G4 non-tactical vehi- Gen. Benjamin Griffin, commander, United States Army Materiel Command from cle manager with the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), is congratulated by Fort Belvoir, Va., steps off the plane Oct. 22 to greet Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, Brig. Gen. Michael Lally, 3d ESC commanding general, for being selected this week’s commander, 3rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), during his visit to Joint “Hooah Soldier of the Week”. Base Balad. Worship services PROTESTANT – TRADITIONAL ROMAN CATHOLIC MASS Sunday 7:30 a.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel (Sacrament of Reconciliation 30 min. prior to Mass) 9:30 a.m. Provider Chapel Saturday 5 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 10:30 a.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) 8 p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) 11 a.m. Castle Heights (4155) Sunday 8:30 a.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 5:30 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 11 a.m. Provider Chapel 7:30 p.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel 11 A.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel PROTESTANT – GOSPEL Mon-Sat 11:45 a.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 11 a.m. MWR East Building Thursday 11 a.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel Noon Freedom Chapel (West Side) Mon,Wed,Fri 5p.m. Gilbert memorial 12:30 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) Friday–Holy Hour 7 p.m. Provider Chapel 7 p.m. Provider Chapel LATTER DAY SAINTS-(LDS)-(MORMON) PROTESTANT – CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP Sunday 1 p.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 9 a.m. MWR East Building 3:30p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) 10:30 a.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 7 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 2 p.m. Castle Heights (4155) JEWISH SHABBAT SERVICES 8 p.m. Eden Chapel Friday 6 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 7 p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) Saturday 8 a.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) 8:30 p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) 6 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) Wednesday 8 p.m. Gilbert Memorial (H-6) ISLAMIC SERVICE PROTESTANT – LITURGICAL Friday 12:30 p.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 11 a.m. Lutheran-Provider Chapel PAGAN/ WICCAN FELLOWSHIP 3 p.m. Episcopal- Lutheran Gilbert Thursday, Saturday 7 p.m. Eden Chapel Chapel (H-6) BUDDHIST FELLOWSHIP PROTESTANT --MESSIANIC Tuesday 7 p.m. Eden Chapel Friday 8:30 p.m. Freedom Chapel (West Side) Protestant – Spanish Non–Denominational PROTESTANT—SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Sunday 4:15 p.m. Gilbert Memorial Chapel Saturday 9 a.m. Provider Chapel EASTERN orthodox- Devine liturgy PROTESTANT—CHURCH OF CHRIST Sunday 9 A.m. Provider Chapel Annex Sunday 3:30 p.m. Castle Heights (4155) *Please note, schedule is subject to change. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: Gilbert Chapel: 443-7703 Provider Chapel: 433-2430 Freedom Chapel: 443-6303 PAGE 4 Expeditionary Times October 29, 2008 Interpreters help train and advise Iraqi Forces by Spc. Andrea Merritt key for a year and then I got a visa 1st Sustainment Brigade to come to the United States as a refugee.” Editor’s note: For safety reasons, While in the United States, Ibra- all interpreters mentioned in the him attended Tennessee State Uni- article are referred to by fictional versity in Nashville and obtained names. a degree in engineering. When he CAMP TAJI, Iraq – For years, did not get the job he applied for Coalition Forces to be interpreter for an overseas have trained and engineering company, he applied advised Iraqi to be an interpreter for U.S. Forces Forces with the in Iraq. goal of help- “I’m really happy with my job ing the once out here working with the Army, w a r - t o r n especially the group that I work country be- with now. I enjoy it. Every day I come a more stable, independent learn something new. It feels real and self-sustaining country. good because I get to help these Through the help of interpret- guys that don’t understand their ers, who sometimes assist Coali- language,” said Ibrahim. tion Forces at the risk of their own Photo by Staff Sgt. Bryant Maude “It’s fun to be between two personal safety, the coalition is able (Left to right) Col. Kevin O’Connell, commander of the 1st Sustainment Brigade; Shawn, an interpreter people that don’t understand each to be more effective in the way they assigned to the brigade’s Iraqi Security Forces Cell; Col. Mohammed Abdalwahab, the maintenance other and translate. It makes me teach the Iraqis. company commander for the Iraqi Army Maintenance Program; and Command Sgt. Maj. Frank Car- feel proud of what I am doing,” “For the most part, they can doza, the 1st Sust. Bde. senior enlisted member, pose for a picture during a dinner hosted by Moham- Ibrahim said. med on Oct. 9. make things flow a lot faster,” said Since returning to the Middle Capt. Jeffrey Stukey, an Engle- pret for Col. Kevin O’Connell, would place an “X” on that Family. cure the (main supply route) and East, Ibrahim has seen many no- wood, Ohio native and a member commander, 1st Sustainment Bri- My Family had an “X” on them,” find insurgents and improvised table changes in society. of the force protection training gade, and a native of Clinton, Md., Johnnie explained. explosive devices. At checkpoints, “This is the country that was team from the 1st Squadron, 152nd when he interacts with his Iraqi “It was a nightmare. No one we stopped a lot of insurgents and under the dictatorship, now it’s Cavalry Regiment, an Indiana Na- counterparts. When Johnnie is not could ever dream that Saddam IEDs from killing innocent peo- liberated. It was nice to see Iraq tional Guard unit attached to the assisting the brigade commander, would be gone one day,” he said. ple,” said Johnnie. taking a step toward democracy. 1st Sustainment Brigade. he works with the brigade’s Iraqi After Saddam was removed Another interpreter in the bri- It makes me feel (good) to work In the 1st Sust. Bde., there are 11 Security Forces Cell. from power, Johnnie’s father be- gade is Ibrahim. He is originally with those advisors that work with interpreters who aid the brigade’s As an Iraqi native, Johnnie was gan working as an interpreter with from Kurdistan, but he moved to the Iraqis every day to try to make training teams in their mission. raised during the rule of Saddam U.S. Forces on Taji. Soon, he and the United States and has become things work. This Army is going Although interpreting provides a Hussein and his regime. During his uncles followed in his father’s a naturalized citizen since then. to be Iraq’s Army; it’s not going source of income, many do this Saddam’s reign, Johnnie’s uncle footprints. Ibrahim works as an interpreter for to be under dictatorship where job because they simply believe in was executed and his Family was For the past five years, Johnnie the 1st Sqdn., 152nd Cav. Regt. somebody is oppressing the Iraqi what they do. targeted by the Baath Party. has worked as an interpreter. Ear- “In 1991, when the Kurds re- people,” said Ibrahim. “I believe in the changes in my “Whenever someone was ex- lier in his career he was assigned volted against Sadaam, his army Like Ibrahim, Shawn also fled to country brought by the U.S. I do ecuted in Saddam’s system, that to a 3rd Infantry Division unit and came up there so most of the popu- the United States in search of a bet- this to help my country and my person’s Family was considered a assisted Soldiers during patrols in lation ran away from their cities ter life, but returned to Iraq to work people and to support my Fam- bad Family who didn’t deserve to different neighborhoods. and their homes to the Turkey bor- as an interpreter. He was born and ily,” said Johnnie, an interpreter as- make a living. My father couldn’t “I have been on about 400 pa- der and the Iranian border,” said raised in the Baghdad area, but in signed to the 1st Sust. Bde. work. At that time, there was a file trols and hit by IEDs seven times Ibrahim. “That was my beginning Johnnie’s main job is to inter- at the Baath Party office and they and survived. Their job was to se- to get out of Iraq. I stayed in Tur- See INTERPRETER, Page 10 Quick fire response saves vital equipment by Air Force Staff Sgt. Don Branum gaslight to burst and start the fire, and they checked 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing the remaining ballasts to ensure no others had faults, said Master Sgt. Stacey Harter, deputy chief of the JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq -- Four Airmen with the 332nd Joint Base Balad Fire Department. Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron protected $52 Murchison and Senior Airman William McCar- million in aircraft parts from being damaged or destroyed thy, both deployed from Westover Air Reserve Base, with their quick response to an electrical fire at Joint Base Mass., made sure fire extinguishers in other 332nd Balad, Iraq, Sept. 22. ELRS work centers were identified and easily ac- Staff Sgt. Akeilee Murchison, Senior Airman Heather cessible so that other Airmen could similarly pre- Libiszewski, Airman 1st Class Mayra Colon-Santiago and vent fires from spreading out of control. Murchison Airman Martin Renzi responded within moments of detect- is a unit safety representative for the squadron. ing the fire, which was caused by a broken gaslight fixture, The Air Force requires Airmen to be trained on in the 332nd Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron fire extinguisher safety annually for emergency Aircraft Parts Store. situations such as the one in which Murchison and “Airman Colon-Santiago smelled smoke and notified her Airmen found themselves, said Senior Master Photo by Airman 1st Class Jason Epley us there was a fire,” Murchison said. “Renzi and I saw the Sgt. James Ferrari, 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Airman 1st Class Mayra Colon-Santiago, Airman 1st Class Martin flames coming from the fixture.” ground safety manager. The annual training will help Renzi, Staff Sgt. Akeilee Murchison and Senior Airman Heather Libiszewski, pose with the fire extinguisher they used to put out a Libiszewski located the nearest fire extinguisher and Airmen remember which fire extinguishers should fire in the Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Aircraft Supply Store Sept. 22. cleared the ground fire, then handed the extinguisher to Ren- be used for grease-burning, electrical or other fires. zi, who smothered the fire at the base of the fixture. “What these Airmen did is a great thing, and we need to eas and living quarters at least once a month, Ferrari said. To Meanwhile, Murchison called 911 and directed the Joint make sure all our Airmen are prepared to take the initiative inspect the fire extinguisher, pick it up in both hands, give it Base Balad Fire Department to the scene. if a fire breaks out in their workcenters,” said Ferrari, who is a good shake and check the pressure gauge at the top. The After the fire, officials with the 332nd Expeditionary Civ- deployed from the Air National Guard’s 110th Fighter Wing shake helps the dry chemicals within ABC-type and BC-type il Engineer Squadron turned off power to the building. They in Battle Creek, Mich. fire extinguishers mix properly and ensures the extinguisher determined that faulty wiring in the light ballast caused the Airmen should inspect fire extinguishers in their work ar- is full. October 29, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 5 Mission melting pot: Combat sustainment in today’s plug and play Army by Sgt. Aaron LeBlanc 1538th Transporta- 1st Sustainment Brigade tion Company, an In- diana National Guard Editors Note: LeBlanc is a unit public af- unit which has hit the fairs representative for the 1st Sust. Bde’s, ground running with- 165th Combat Sustainment Support Bat- out missing a beat. talion. This article received distribution on The 536th Main- the national level. tenance Company, CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The 165th Combat out of Schofield Bar- Sustainment Support Bat- racks, Hawaii, man- talion is currently man- ages the largest and aging a dynamic mission most comprehensive that ranges from class maintenance operation one supply delivery, to on the base and boasts the movement of bulk command and control fuel, to the adminis- of one of the largest tration of the premier supply support activ- Photo by Sgt. Aaron LeBlanc maintenance operation on Camp Taji, Iraq. ity warehouse com- Top: A shipment of tires is loaded This diversity of mission is made possible plexes in the country. at the Camp Taji Central Receiving through the Army’s “plug and play” phi- If it’s broken, the pro- and Shipping Point, or CRSP, bound for tactical vehicles in need of fresh losophy that has gained wide acceptance as fessionals of the 536th rubber. The Taji CRSP is operated by it continues to increase the flexibility and can probably fix it; the 297th Transportation Company, utility of military forces. their capabilities in- 165th Combat Sustainment Support The headquarters element of the 165th, clude not only vehicle Battalion, 1st Sustainment Brigade, a Louisiana National Guard company from repair, but also small and is another example of the diverse mission that is combat sustainment. Bossier City, is the only company within arms and radio equip- the Battalion native to the lineage of the ment repair. Left: Members of Company G, 1st unit. The remainder of the Battalion, A detachment of Battalion, 206th Field Artillery, cur- comprised of Army National Guard, Ac- the 297th Inland Cargo rently assigned to the 165th Combat tive Duty, and Army Reserve companies Transportation Com- Sustainment Support Battalion, 1st Sustainment Brigade engage in a of combat arms units, transportation units, pany, also belonging live-fire exercise in Kuwait prior to and maintenance units, was assembled in to the 165th, is respon- arriving at Camp Taji. country. sible for the adminis- U.S. Army courtesy photo In addition to moving every class of tration of the Camp Taji Central Receiving completed over 10,000 maintenance jobs. unit from Fort Bliss, Texas, are capable supply while providing their own security, and Shipping Point, and has received high Soldiers pulled from various units with- of transporting and delivering the Army’s the Soldiers of the 165th bear the brunt of praise from Brig. Gen Michael Lally, the in the 165th are spearheading the effort to largest tracked vehicles, including 80-ton the logistics effort that allows Camp Taji commanding general of the 3d Sustain- turn over U.S. Army humvees to the Iraqi M-1 Abrahams main battle tanks, to wher- to function. ment Command (Expeditionary) for their Army, and have delivered more than 2,000 ever they may be needed in the theater of For over a year, the 515th Transporta- organization and efficiency in support of humvees since the 165th’s arrival in April. operations. tion Company, 165th CSB, an active duty the Warfighter. As part of an ongoing push to form a Thanks to the modular system in today’s unit from Manheim, Germany, was respon- The 165th’s support operations section more effective and efficient logistics appa- plug and play Army, all of these capabili- sible for the delivery of all fuel on Camp oversees the administration of Camp Taji’s ratus, Soldiers from the headquarters ele- ties – from heavy equipment transport, to Taji and the surrounding Multi-National Class I yard and bulk fuel farm, and are re- ment of the battalion, along with Soldiers the combat capabilities of the convoy se- Division - Baghdad area. Every drop of sponsible for focusing the concerted efforts of the 536th, are working closely with me- curity elements organic to the battalion, fuel passing through the main generators of the battalion’s various transportation chanics of the Iraqi Army, helping them to to the ability to deliver vast quantities of here got to where it was needed thanks in and combat arms companies, who together become better able to maintain their ever- any class of supply anywhere in Multi-Na- part to the tireless efforts of the 515th. As have delivered over 20,000 concrete barri- growing fleet of humvees. tional Division – Baghdad, – coexist under their 15-month tour comes to a close, the ers and an estimated 150,000 tons of sup- Finally, the 377th Combat Heavy Equip- a single guidon: the battalion colors of the Soldiers have handed the torch off to the plies into the heart of Baghdad, and have ment Transport Company, an active duty 165th CSSB.

by Lt. Col. Billy Hall/Lt. Col. Don Forrester on their campaign plan, reporting require- synchronizing with LTATs from the divi- 3d ESC ISF Team ments, LTAT resourcing, and other future sions around Iraq will result in effective events with the Iraqi Ground Forces Com- IA sustainment, said Hall. The units that JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq - The Iraqi mand and the joint headquarters. All five are working with the Iraqi Army to help 3d ESC Security Forces team, with the 3d Sus- brigades had representatives present. develop a professional, values based orga- tainment Command (Expeditionary), con- Updates were given on each of the Iraqi nization have provided their best Soldiers, ducted the first periodic logistics training Army partnerships, which focused on the he said. hosts and assistance team review at Joint Base current capabilities of the IA units in re- Maj. Kevin Reszka, the 3d ESC re- Balad, Oct. 16 and 17. gards to manning, equipping, training and source manager, attended the conference The review was held to make sure the bases, as well as current and future training to answer questions and provide informa- ISF LTAT 3d ESC was implementing Multi-National initiatives. tion on the various resources available to Corps – Iraq’s guidelines for Coalition Lt. Col. Billy Hall, a member of the support the different LTATs in remote ar- Conference Forces to partner with the Iraqi Army. LTAT, said everyone at the review provid- eas of Iraq. The 3d ESC assumed the mission to ed positive feedback, which helped create The results of the periodic LTAT review work with the logistics organizations of the camaraderie between the advisor teams. allowed the 3d ESC to see what is being Iraqi Army and provide them with mentors He said the ISF personnel realize the im- accomplished, identify shortfalls and de- and advisors across the Iraq theater of op- pact they are having with the current Iraqi fine where commanders can develplans to erations. Army as well as the future IA. achieve greater gains in working with the The 3d ESC’s ISF team briefed the five Partnering with third line maintenance, IA to provide security and the freedom that sustainment brigades reporting to the 3d supply and distribution activities and accompanies it, said Hall. PAGE 6 Expeditionary Times October 29, 2008

Sergeant major volunteers a have you Do to deploy with son to Iraq idea? story by Sgt. Keith M. Anderson

16th Sustainment Brigade Times Contact the Expeditionary [email protected] CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq — Sgt. Maj. Danny Wood is a liaison officer with Task Force 1-151Infantry, 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Indiana Army National Guard, who volunteered for this deploy- ment — his fourth — to go with his son, 1st Lt. Andrew Wood, commander, Al- pha Co., 1st Battalion, 151st Infantry Regiment, to Iraq. “When I returned home from last courtesy photo year’s deployment and found out Andy was deploying with Sgt. Maj. Danny Wood, liaison officer, Task Force 1- the 76th Infantry Brigade, I volunteered to deploy again to 151Infantry, 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Indi- be with my son,” said the 56-year-old father of three from ana Army National Guard, volunteered for this deploy- ment — his fourth — to go with his son, 1st Lt. Andrew Spencer, Ind. “I had just returned from Baghdad, but he’s my Wood, commander, Alpha Co., 1st Battalion, 151st In- only son, and I knew it’ll probably be the only time during fantry Regiment, to Iraq. my career that I could serve with him.” Wood, who has served in the Army National Guard for 33 it wasn’t his idea. He, at the time, was a prior-service staff years, said his wife, Micki, understood his decision. sergeant, and because I joined, he joined around three days “If something were to happen to Andy and I didn’t come later. This has certainly been a bond that most fathers and (to Iraq), I’d have to live with that,” said Wood. sons do not have. We are able to relate to one another on The two of them have a great working relationship, he issues. It’s a special thing.” said, and don’t have a problem separating family and work. Andrew said he looks up to his father, a long-time artil- “When we’re alone, I’m Dad; if we’re with other staff, leryman and farmer, cattleman and limestone cutter, who cut I’m sergeant major,” Wood said. much of the rock used to repair the walls of the Pentagon Andrew, 33, from Coal City, Ind., said he and his father after Sept. 11, 2001. have a strong bond. “Most sons want to be like their Dad,” Andrew said. “I “I joined the Guard between my junior and senior year have tried to emulate him my entire life; he has been my role (of high school),” Andrew said. “My father didn’t push me, model.”

Leaders come together during commander’s conference by Pfc. Amanda Tucker Expeditionary Times staff JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – The 3d Sustainment Command (Expedi- tionary) hosted a commander’s conference on Joint Base Balad, Oct. 15. The purpose of the conference was to share information on incoming and outgoing units in theater and gain an outlook on current and emerging problems effecting logistical operations in theater. “As a command, we are very busy with retrograde, deploying units, and training support to the Iraqi Army,” said Brig. Gen. Michael Lally, the commanding general for the 3d ESC, based out of Fort Knox,Ky. “This conference helped ensure the commanders and command sergeants major understand the challenges facing each other and the entire command,” said Lally. Commanders and command sergeants major from the 3d ESC, 1st Sus- tainment Brigade, 7th Sustainment Brigade, 16th Sustainment Brigade, 55th Sustainment Brigade, 371st Sustainment Brigade, 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and 330th Transportation Battalion attended the meeting. Lally opened the conference by addressing the senior leaders with his wishes to coordinate efforts to make sure all brigades were working toward the common goal. The leaders discussed information concerning their unit’s operation throughout Iraq. The commanders and command sergeants major spoke about maintenance and drivers training conducted before and during de- ployments to Iraq, including training conducted at Camp Buehring, Ku- wait. Capt. Joseph Green, the commander for the 44th Military History De- tachment, briefed the commanders on the importance of documenting their unit’s operations for future historical purposes. Maj. Deon Green, a Milwaukee, Wis., native, and the staff judge advo- cate for the 3d ESC, briefed the leaders on senior leader action processing. Green answered questions about legal actions that could stop Soldiers from Photo by Pfc. Amanda Tucker leaving theater. Maj. Deon Green, a Milwaukee, Wis., native and staff judge advocate for the 3d Sustainment Com- Lally released the commanders and command sergeants major after two mand (Expeditionary), talks to commanders and command sergeants major about senior leader ac- days of meetings that will lead to more efficient operations within the 3d tion processing during the 3d ESC commander’s conference on Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Oct. 16. ESC. October 29, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 7 UPAR – your unit should never leave home base without one SHOUT by Sgt. 1st Class Dave McClain picture that could get theater-wide or even public affairs program, and generate a little Expeditionary Times staff world-wide exposure. interest within the battalions getting the 1st Lt. Stefanie Kuntz, UPAR of the word out on the great things 371st Soldiers OUT!!! UPARs – they link their unit with the 371st Sustainment Brigade, said, “Because do!” said Kuntz. outside world. Does your unit have a of their unique position as a Soldier first, Once a UPAR is identified and trained, UPAR? UPAR stands for unit public af- assigned to a particular unit, UPARs are higher headquarters public affairs offices fairs representative and sometimes the the eyes and ears for the brigade and divi- are there to help. Assistance and advice UPAR is the only person who stands be- sion PAOs.” are never more than a phone call or an e- TELL YOUR tween your unit and the vast desert of un- The American public has a right to mail away. told stories. know how their tax money is being spent, Being a UPAR can be a lot of fun, In these days of 24-hour news opera- including what the Army is doing while too. UPARs often get to go places they FAMILY AND tions and more media choices than you in Iraq. What’s more, your unit’s family wouldn’t normally get to go and talk to can shake a remote control at, it takes that members, friends and community members people they wouldn’t normally get to meet FRIENDS much extra effort for your unit’s message want all the news of your unit they can get. and when covering events, they often have to be heard. UPARs make that happen. A single UPAR can keep people informed one of the best seats in the house. They HOW MUCH The Army has an energetic and vibrant on what their unit is doing while deployed have to be close to the action because they public affairs branch, but only has enough and lift morale back home as well. represent the eyes and ears of the entire YOU MISS Soldiers and officers to assign trained pub- UPARs can be any rank, officer or en- outside world. lic affairs personnel to brigade-level units listed, have a lot of experience in journal- Attend an important event or discover THEM and above. So what’s a smaller unit to do? ism and photography or none at all. Train- a really cool story for yourself. Take a Assign a UPAR, that’s what. ing is available for UPARs, both online and picture. Write an article. Tell your unit’s The Army Public Affairs Handbook in person. The 3d Sustainment Command story. Keep the folks back home informed. says, “Unit Public Affairs Representatives, (Expeditionary) has started a program to Tell the rest of the world about the great or ‘stringers,’ are assigned through addi- send public affairs soldiers to their sustain- Soldiers in your unit and the great things tional duty appointments to represent their ment brigades to train for the UPARs from your unit is doing defending the cause of Contact the 3d ESC units for PA functions.” smaller units. freedom. If this sounds good to you, ask Sure, it’s an additional duty, but few The 371st Sustainment Brigade at Al your unit to contact your higher headquar- Public Affairs Office additional duties can have a greater impact Asad recently hosted such training. Kuntz ters’ public affairs office and find out more for scheduling. on how your unit is seen by the outside brought together UPARs from some of about being a UPAR. The 3d ESC Public world – OR be this much fun! her brigade’s downtrace units. Before that Affairs Office can also help. You can write UPARs find the stories that a public training, Kuntz had been the only UPAR to us at [email protected]. affairs officer or Soldier in a higher head- for her entire brigade. Just don’t wait too long. There are great E-mail escpao@iraq. quarters might never become aware of. “It was great to bring all our UPARs to- stories in your unit just waiting to be told. The UPAR can write a story and/or take a gether, talk about what makes for a great If you’re not going to tell them, who will? centcom.mil

sponsible for setting and uphold- ing dining facility standards. DFAC Council helps address These standards include the requirement of everyone washing their hands upon entry and DFAC cleanliness. dining facility issues on JBB “The mayor cell does walk by Spc. Michael Behlin what could be improved within areas. tral Command, and then they not through inspections when they Expeditionary Times staff the facility,” said Chief Warrant “One of the requests that have only have to think about Iraq, but check temperatures of water be- Officer Tiffany Alexander, 3d come out of the council meet- they have to think about Kuwait, ing used to clean dishes, types JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Sustainment Command (Expedi- ings is just having more healthy Qatar, and Afghanistan.” of solutions used, oven tempera- Helping transient and tenant Sol- tionary) Food Advisor. choice items, you know, really Sitting on the council are key tures, and the proper thawing of diers make recommendations and “We have an open dialogue small things,” said Alexander. personnel from KBR and tenant meats,” said Master Sgt. Karen improvements to dining facilities between the folks that work in “Sometimes, we do get really odd units across theater. These per- Wilkerson, 3d ESC senior food throughout the Iraqi theater is the the food service arena and our requests and when those requests sonnel include unit representa- management NCO. “All of the DFAC Advisory Council. customers that come through come, we have to let them know tives such as Alexander, as well folks that work in the facili- Started many years ago, the the facilities to help make better that it’s not going to happen and as DFAC noncommissioned offi- ties have to be qualified and go council was originally known as choices.” said Alexander. that they’re still in Iraq.” cers in charge. through classes on sanitation and the enlisted dining facility coun- Through monthly meetings, The council may want to pro- One of the more popular items preparation.” cil. Enlisted Soldiers were more the DFAC Advisory Council vide more options among din- discussed at meetings is the ad- These steps are important likely to eat their meals in the obtains feedback from Service- ing facility items, but it’s not as dition of fresh milk to the DFAC in the preparation and finished DFAC because they lived in the members using the DFACs to as- though the council is just a JBB menu. While fresh milk is avail- product that the dining facility barracks. To some, the dining sist KBR in improving the quality entity. When there are requests, able to some bases throughout produces, but ultimately, the cus- facility was their main source of of service provided on Joint Base the item requested has to be in- Iraq, JBB’s location and the lo- tomer’s input is what the council meals. Balad, and other posts throughout cluded in the catalog, and that re- cation of the distributor make it is looking to gather. With their Over the years, however, with the Iraqi and Afghanistan theater. quest goes up the chain to include hard to obtain. Due to logistical input, the dining facilities can the rising amount of deployments, While there are DFAC advi- other bases – even bases in other challenges such as road condi- look to improve what is thought the DFAC Council became a way sory councils on military posts in countries. tions and truck delays, it’s not to be deficiencies theater-wide. to help Servicemembers regard- the United States, the operation “We may want to provide feasible to have fresh milk due its “Servicemembers need to con- less of rank and branch of ser- is usually different than those in our customers with something short shelf life. tinue to come out and provide us vice. war zones since there are items but it’s not just the folks on JBB While most people automati- information about what they see “The DFAC council was that can’t be obtained. This is that requests go up to,” Alexan- cally think of food products when in the facilities,” said Alexander. formed to receive feedback from relevant because, at times, there der said. “It has to be the same hearing of a DFAC council, facil- “They can fill out comment cards our diners on what they like, can be gripes and complaints that request throughout theater and ity conditions are also a topic of to provide us with feedback be- what they would like to see, and can’t be accommodated in these then we take it up to Army Cen- discussion. The council is re- cause we do look at those.” PAGE 8 Expeditionary Times October 29, 2008

Corps of Noncommissioned Officers welcome new noncommissioned officers inducted into the corps

by Pfc. Amanda Tucker tive, and the 3d ESC commanding Sgt. 1st Class Megith Kassim, a “The noncommissioned officer Expeditionary Times staff general’s executive administrator, Detroit native and medical supply is the … leader that is out with the sang the “The Star Spangled Ban- sergeant for the 3d ESC, held the Soldiers each and every day,” said JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq - ner.” Master Sgt. Brandon Thomas, honor of lighting the candle placed Tennant. “That’s the Soldier that Ninety-seven noncommissioned of- a Bradenton, Fla., native, and mo- on the prisoner of war/killed in ac- checks the Soldier to make sure ficers were inducted into the NCO bility noncommissioned officer in tion table. … that they are ready for the mis- corps during an NCO induction charge for the 3d ESC, delivered the Units from Balad coordinated to sion.” ceremony at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, invocation. performed skits for the new NCOs. After the motivating skits and Oct. 15. “We want to let them know it is A video was played for the au- recitations, 97 NCOs raised their The ceremony began with the en- a big step in their military career,” dience with Soldiers from the 3d right hands and were sworn into the trance of the official party, including said Tennant. “What we (did) is we ESC reading the origin of the NCO. NCO corps by Tennant. Each Sol- Command Sgt. Maj. Willie Tennant, set up a ceremony to illustrate to Four Soldiers from the 20th Quar- dier stepped over the line of author- the senior enlisted member of the them the importance of being a non- termaster Company, based out of ity and signed the NCO’s induction 3d Sustainment Command (Expe- commissioned officer (and) being a Ft. Campbell, Ky., recited the Sol- book before receiving a copy of the ditionary), based out of Fort Knox, sergeant in charge of Soldiers.” diers Creed, followed by another NCO creed. Ky., Command Sgt. Maj. Marvin Tennant awarded Sgt. Johnathan four Soldiers from the 602nd Main- After all the inducted NCOs Hill, the senior enlisted member Days, a member of Headquarters tenance Company, based out of Ft. were back at their seats, Hill spoke of Multi-National Force-Iraq, and and Headquarters Company, 7th Hood, Texas, reciting the Soldiers to the NCOs about their new duties Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph Allen, Sustainment Brigade, based out of request. Soldiers from the 1st Bat- and responsibilities. He explained the senior enlisted member of the Ft. Eustis, Va., noncommissioned talion, 293rd Infantry Regiment the power acquired by becoming XVIII Airborne Corps and Multi - officer of the quarter. Tennant also performed a skit in full battle gear NCOs. To close the ceremony, the National Corps - Iraq. awarded Sgt. Bryce Vieth of the of doing pre-combat checks to illus- NCOs recited the NCO creed and To kick off the ceremony, Sgt. 530th Combat Sustainment Support trate the importance of accounting sang the Army song before the of- Monica Olson, a Lyman, Neb., na- Battalion warrior of the quarter. for Soldiers. ficial party departed.

Sgt. Tiffany R. Binns, a Rices Landing, Pa., native and member of the 444th Human Resource Command out of Pittsburgh, Pa., steps over the line of authority as part of her induction into the NCO corps during a ceremony held on Joint Base Balad, Iraq Oct. 15.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Gary Hawkins October 29, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 9

Corps of Noncommissioned Officers welcome new noncommissioned officers inducted into the corps

Photo by Pfc. Amanda Tucker Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 293rd Infantry Regiment, perform a skit during a noncommissioned officer induc- tion ceremony on Joint Base Balad, Iraq Oct. 15.

Photo by Pfc. Amanda Tucker Top: Sgt. 1st Class Megith Kassim, a Detroit native and medical sup- ply sergeant for the 3d ESC, lights the candle placed on the prisoner of war/killed in action table during a noncommissioned officer induc- tion ceremony on Joint Base Balad, Iraq Oct. 15. Left: Sgt. Brian Brown, a Baltimore, Md., native and member of the 55th Sustainment Brigade from Fort Belvoir, Va., signs the noncom- missioned officer’s book as part of his induction into the NCO corps.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Gary Hawkins PAGE 10 Expeditionary Times October 29, 2008

VOTE, from Page 1 unable to receive (one) from home or they Sgt. 1st Class Odell Smith, a member are just arriving in theater,” said Gardner. of 1st Battalion, 293d Infantry Regiment, “This augments the official drive – it gives was visiting the MWR to grab a bottle of you an opportunity if nothing else is avail- cold water when he learned about the drive. able.” Surprised at the convenience of the service, Hess, from Spanaway, Wash., said the Smith, an Indianapolis native who was pre- 3d ESC has emphasized registration of all paring to rejoin a logistics training assis- Soldiers under their command. All sustain- tance team once he left JBB, jumped on the ment brigades were required to report their chance to submit a ballot. unit’s registration status weekly, as well as Smith said his vote was completed and provide voting materials for Soldiers, mem- sealed in less than five minutes. bers of supporting services and civilian con- “I’m just coming back from leave and tractors. forgot to get what I needed to vote,” said Acosta said Soldiers are already empow- Smith. “Going through the absentee voting ered through media outlets to understand the process was very convenient and easy . . . it issues, but need the opportunity to cast their was a painless process.” vote. Applicants were asked if they were regis- “That’s my purpose,” said Acosta, “take tered to vote. If they were, they received and care of people, make sure their vote is cast completed a federal write-in absentee ballot. and that they participate in this democra- Once the ballot was signed and validated, cy.” the ballots would be sent to the military mail Smith said the drive marked a positive service. The ballots are then prioritized and moment in his day. separated from regular outgoing mail to be “(The voter drive) is very good for mo- Photo by Spc. Anthony Hooker received by the appropriate voting districts. rale,” said Smith. “Our next president will Capt. Kelvin Acosta, the voting assistance officer for Headquarter Company, 3d Sus- “A number of these ballots will become be our commander-in-chief. I want to make tainment Command (Expeditionary), gives instruction to Sgt. 1st Class Odell Smith during an absentee ballot voting drive Oct. 15 at the eastside Morale, Welfare and official ballots because many (people) are sure my vote counts.” Recreation center. Acosta is a native of Salinas, Puerto Rico.

INTERPRETER, from Page 4 Although Johnnie, Ibrahim, and Shawn enjoy their jobs, they have to keep safety uppermost in 1978, he journeyed to the United States and settled their minds. in Los Angeles, where many of his Family members “All interpreters have fear because we’re not Sol- went earlier in the decade. diers. We’re not trained to handle hostile actions, At the age of 17, Shawn convinced the Iraqi au- but our faith keeps us strong and the company and thorities that he was going out of the country for unit we work with are superb people. They really a short period of time to travel as a tourist, but his make life easier here,” Shawn said. intentions were to leave and never return. In 2004, while working as an interpreter, John- “In high school, they were imposing on us to be nie and his Family received death threats because part of student militia armies. I didn’t want to join people in his neighborhood found out he was work- the Baath Party Army, so I was very determined to ing with the U.S. Army. Although he had to move leave Iraq because I envisioned the future would be his Family, he never thought of quitting his job. very devastating in Iraq. I was lucky to envision “I didn’t stop. I believe in my job and changes. that at that age,” Shawn said. If I think like that about my own safety and quitting, “That was not my goal. I was a student and I nothing will be changed, so I believe I can contin- wanted to be free – not to be imposed to join any ue,” Johnnie said. party. I was eager to get my education. I realized Without the dedication of interpreters, the mis- my freedoms were going to be restricted in Iraq, so sion of Coalition Forces who train Iraqis wouldn’t I convinced my parents to allow me to leave,” he be possible. Interpreters, in essence, bridge the said. gap that is often brought by the language barrier. On his way to the United States, Shawn stopped Through them, U.S. Soldiers are able to communi- in Italy and waited for his older brother, who left cate effectively with Iraqis in order to get the mis- two days after he did so they wouldn’t arouse sus- sion accomplished. picion. After they were together, Shawn and his For the advisors, one of the main reasons of be- brother managed to go to Greece for a year and a ing successful in their training team mission is to half before coming to the United States to apply for have a friendly relationship with their interpreters. political asylum. The interpreters not only translate, but they also “My experience in Europe matured me a lot. It keep Soldiers mindful of the Iraqi culture, which taught me … to be strong and dependent on my- helps in keeping good relationships with the Iraqi self. It was an adventure and learning experience Soldiers. for me,” Shawn said. “We both know we have a job to do here and we About a year after Shawn and his brother came are going to focus on the job. If we don’t have a to the United States, their parents followed. To- friendly relationship, then the job would be very dif- day, Shawn and the rest of his Family are proud ficult and neither me or my interpreter would want American citizens. Out of dedication to his country, that,” Stukey said. Shawn chose to become an interpreter after a friend At the end of the day, despite any cultural differ- told him about the job. ences, the interpreters and the advisors all have the “I have a friend who has been working in theater same vision and goal in mind. for about three years in the Diyala province area. “Iraq as a country, I wish them stability. That’s He is close to me and he encouraged me to apply for my vision for them, stability and peace so they can this job. When I heard the job involved the United join other countries and live a better standard of States Army, I always admired the Armed Forces, so life. There are a lot of good people in Iraq,” said that was an area I was interested in,” Shawn said. Shawn. Four months ago, Shawn returned to the country “We did the right thing to come to this country where he was born, and began working as an inter- and save it from the previous government - the dic- preter for the 1st Sust. Bde. Iraqi Security Forces tatorship that ruled this country for three decades. I Cell. He works with the Soldiers who advise Iraqi think we’re planting the seeds in them for their fu- Army Soldiers, Iraqi Military Police, and the Third ture generation and I think they’re going to appreci- Line Maintenance Facility. ate us a lot in the future,” Shawn said. October 29, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 11 Women continue to pave the way for Army leadership by Spc. Andrea Merritt ago as a private. It was during basic train- 1st Sustainment Brigade ing that she found she would always have to “Listen to your Soldiers and listen prove herself as a leader. CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – Throughout “Early on in my career in basic training, military history, women to those around you.” I had a male Soldier who refused to have to have proudly served their Capt. DeShaunda Allen follow a female Soldier and that has stayed nation and even though it 62nd Quartermaster Co. in my mind ever since,” said Allen candid- was a struggle, they con- ly. “I haven’t been faced with challenges as tinued to serve while “I think it was harder for them ten or “I was nervous, but that’s normal human of now though, because I see myself as an simultaneously striv- 15 years ago; but with all of the advances, emotion when you’re named commander equal with my male counterparts.” ing for equality in the progression and active roles and efforts on five days before your unit leaves to come “I constantly speak with all the leaders force. their behalf, they have made it easier and to Iraq,” Nowicki stated. “I’ve got a better in my organization for feedback on how In June 2008, Lt. Gen. Anne E. Dun- more accepting in the workplace and in the grasp on it now. It was a little shaky those they believe I am doing as a leader and they woody, the Deputy Commanding General military,” continued Nowicki, a native of first 90 days, but I continue give that effort believe I am doing a great job. They are of the Army Material Command, was nom- Cincinnati, OH. and praise to everyone else who has helped able to continue doing their missions and inated by President George W. Bush for As the commander of the 503rd Maint. inform me and keep me in line with infor- tasks as a leader because I have inspired promotion to four-star general, making her Co., a Ft. Bragg, N.C., unit currently de- mation. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be them to give me 100 percent effort know- highest-ranking woman in military history. ployed to Iraq on a 15-month rotation, it is a quality leader.” ing they will receive 100 percent from me Dunwoody’s accomplishment, is evi- Nowicki’s duty to make sure her unit suc- Another leader in the 398th CSSB is in return,” stated Allen. dence of how things have changed for cessfully completes its wartime mission. Capt. DeShaunda Allen, the commander Though Nowicki and Allen are new to women in the military over the years. Al- After high school, Nowicki passed up of the 62nd Quartermaster Co., out of Ft. command, they have led their units to suc- though women make up a smaller percent- a few softball scholarships and applied to Hood, Texas. Although the unit has been cessfully perform their wartime missions. age of the Army force, women in leadership go to the United States Military Academy in theater since January, Allen didn’t take As deployment continues, they continue to positions have become more common. The at West Point. Upon graduating from the control of the unit until May. learn and become more confident in their road has been paved and women continue academy in 2006, she was on track to go to Despite receiving a new commander in abilities to lead troops. to lead the way. the World Class Athlete Program and serve the midst of their deployment, the Soldiers “We have females that are moving up to When the 398th Combat Sustainment a portion of her military obligation with the never lost their momentum and continued the general position as well as higher rank- Support Battalion, a Maryland Army Re- U.S. Team Handball, Women’s National to give great customer service once Allen ing NCOs. I think that while there may be a serve unit, arrived to Iraq and took over the Team in New York. stepped in. select few who experience a more difficult mission of the 553rd Combat Sustainment Instead of continuing to train with the The Soldiers in the unit are responsible task when they move into a leadership posi- Support Battalion, it gained control of five team in hopes of going to the 2008 Olym- for carrying out the bulk of the battalion’s tion, I think it’s how they go about reacting companies whose missions, combined, ex- pics in Beijing, she received orders to go to mission, which includes running the second to the natural things that come up that de- tend support throughout Multi-National Di- Ft. Bragg, N.C., where she initially served largest bulk fuel farm in Iraq, managing termine their confidence level and the per- visions – Baghdad and Center. with the 249th Quartermaster Company. the base’s water bottle plant, operating the ception of them by their peers, subordinates Of those five companies, two are led by In May 2007, Nowicki was assigned to Class I point, and providing real-time route as well as their superiors with looking past young female officers who were unexpect- the 503rd Maintenance Company and served status information for combat logistics pa- who they are in terms of gender to the type edly placed into leadership positions, but as the platoon leader for the Supply Support trols. of leader they are,” Nowicki said. continued to thrive and guide their orga- Activity. In January 2008, she became the “All of the platoons are executing their “Listen to your Soldiers and listen to nizations in the necessary direction to suc- executive officer for the company. missions superbly with limited resources, those around you. If you don’t listen to cessfully complete their missions. Before she had a chance to become com- and I know that their performances are evi- your Soldiers, then you won’t be able to “I don’t necessarily think it’s harder for fortable in her new job as executive officer, dence of their forte and technical proficien- help them, your unit, or yourself as a com- women in positions of leadership,” said 1st she was assigned to a new duty position. In cy that make this organization exceptional,” mander or leader to help take the company Lt. Celia Nowicki, the commander of the March 2008, less than a week before the said Allen, a Dallas native. to a greater level than when you received 503rd Maintenance Company, attached to unit departed for Iraq, she was appointed as Although Allen is a commissioned of- the it,” Nowicki said. the 398th CSSB, 1st Sustainment Brigade. the unit’s new company commander. ficer, she began her Army career ten years

Iraqi colonel shows appreciation

Photo by Pfc. Amanda Tucker Left to right: Iraqi Army Col. Muhammed presents Col. Therese O’brien, a Dellslow, W.V., native and commander of the 55th Sustainment Brigade, based out of Fort Bel- voir, Va., a gift of appreciation for her visit to the 3rd Line Repair and Maintenance Company in Kirkush, Iraq, Oct. 8. PAGE 12 Expeditionary Times October 29, 2008

A diverse MESSAGES set of skills by Staff Sgt. James E. Brown Jr. 1st Sustainment Brigade FROM HOME

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The Army National Guard is a large and diverse institution that is spread throughout each of the 50 states. This organization is made up of citizen Soldiers who essentially lead double lives. Each Soldier serves their nation by performing their duty one weekend a month and two weeks during annual training. At the same time, they maintain full-time employment in the civilian world. For some National Guard Soldiers, their civil- ian job mirrors their military duties; but in most cases, it does not. They must master two sets of skills – one for their nation and the other to provide for their Families. The following Soldiers of the Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 152nd Cavalry Regiment, an Indiana Army National Guard unit attached to the 1st Sustainment Brigade, are a snapshot of the diversity in its ranks. A native of Whiteland, Ind., 2nd Lt. Shaun Tompkins works as a lead pharmacy technician in his civilian career. As a pharmacy technician he fills prescriptions, inputs prescriptions into a database, troubleshoots insurance issues, and also runs the register. He has been doing this for almost five years and he enjoys it. Although he works as a pharmacy technician in the civilian world, Tompkins has served as the unit’s signal officer for the past two years. He supplies the communication needs for the squadron commander, To SGT Kurt Hornstra, 561st Engineer Company troubleshoots and maintains network and radio equipment, and runs telephone and Internet wire to create much needed communications I love you and your soon-to-be son Cole loves connectivity. “The Signal Corps is more challenging than what I do in the civil- you too! He tells me everyday with his strong ian sector. (I) can take a lot of the experiences that (I’ve) learned in the military and transverse that into the civilian sector making a pretty good kicks! We miss you and can’t wait for you to come career in information technology, and use that if I ever decide to make a career change,” said Tompkins. home for the birth. When not serving in her military capacity, Pfc. Jennifer Bowser serves up hot wings and fries at a local restaurant and also works as a From wife Christel hostess at a resturant in her hometown of Indianapolis. “I deliver food and drinks, greet customers that enter the business, arrange seating for everyone, and ensure that their visit was a good one,” First Army commander visits Joint Base Balad said Bowser. Although Bowser has been serving customers for a year in the food service arena, she serves customers in a different capacity in her military job. Bowser works as a human resource specialist for the 1st Sqdn., 152nd Cav. Regt. It is Bowser’s job to prepare and process recommen- dations for awards and decorations as well as handle the unit’s personnel accounting, strength management, and overall administration require- ments. When asked what she thought about her military occupational skill, Bowser said, “It’s an opportunity to serve with the Guard, do different things, and get more experience, not only in my civilian life, but also the military life.” For Sgt. Charles Hayes, being a chaplain’s assistant is a lot different than working as a shipping and receiving dock team leader back home in West Point, Ky. In his civilian career, Hayes ships and receives items through courier services, manually loads and unloads semi trucks, and also refurbishes laptops and big screen TVs for various businesses and individuals. Hayes has been working in the shipping and receiving field for 12 years and as a chaplain’s assistant for 11 years. While the two jobs have nothing in common, Hayes revealed he chose his particular military oc- cupational specialty to fulfill a more spiritual and personal need. “I assist the chaplain in setting up religious services, administrative paperwork, and (personal security),” said Hayes. “I became a chaplain’s assistant because I wasn’t sure on my religious background, and I fig- ured that this job would help me find my religious background.” Even though most National Guard Soldiers have military duties that don’t mirror their civilian jobs, this type of job skill diversity can prove Photo by Staff Sgt. Gary Hawkins to be much more valuable when they are deployed because they have Maj. Robert Frank, a member of the 259th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, based out of something extra to add to the fight. Aurora, Co., briefly explains their mission on Joint Base Balad, Iraq to Lt. Gen. Thomas Miller, com- manding general of First Army, based out of Ft. Gillem, Ga., during a visit Oct. 23. October 29, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 13

Saturday- 9 a.m., 7 p.m. Friday- 8 p.m. WEST RECREATION 6 on 6 volleyball Boxing: 5 on 5 Basketball: CENTER tourney: JB BALAD ACTIVITIES Sunday- 4 p.m. Saturday- 8 p.m. Green Bean Karaoke: Friday- 7 p.m. Tue., Thu.,- 2 p.m. Sun., Wed., 7:30pm Aerobics: INDOOR POOL Mon., Wed., Fri.- 9-ball tourney: Boot Camp: H6 RECREATION 9-ball tourney: Monday, Wednesday, Swim Lessons: 9-10 p.m. Wednesday- 8 p.m. Sunday- 8:45 a.m CENTER Monday- 8 p.m. Friday- 7 p.m. Mon., Wed.,- 6 p.m. MMA Training: Dungeons & Dragons: Tue.,Thu.,- 7 p.m. Bingo: Ping-pong tourney: Body by Midgett Toning Tue., Thu., Sat.,- Mon., Wed., Fri.- Thursday- 7:30 p.m. Power Abs: Sunday- 8 p.m. Tuesday- 8 p.m. Class: 6:30 p.m. 10-11 p.m. Poetry Night: Mon., Tue., Thu., - 8 p.m. Texas Hold’em: Foosball tourney: Tue., Thu., - 7 p.m. AquaTraining: Abs-Aerobics: Thursday-8 p.m. Friday- 9 p.m. Mon., Fri.,- 2 p.m., Tuesday- 8 p.m. Dodge ball Game: Tue.,Thu.,- 7:30 p.m., Tue., Thu., 6-7 a.m., 6-ball tourney: CC Cross Fit: 8:30 p.m. Jam Session: Tuesday- 7:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 5-6 p.m Thursday- 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday- 8-ball tourney: Tuesday- 7:30 p.m Furman’s Martial Arts: Edge Weapons & Stick Caribbean Night: 10:30 p.m Tuesday- 2 a.m., 8-ball tourney: Mon., Wed., Sun.,- 1 p.m. EAST FITNESS Fighting Combative Friday- 8 p.m. Cross Fit: 8:30 p.m. Wednesday- 8 p.m Gaston’s Self-Defense CENTER Training: Chess & Dominoes Mon., Wed., Fri.,- 5:45 Ping-pong tourney: Guitar Lessons: Class: Open Court Volleyball: Tue., Thur., Sat.,- Tourney: a.m., 7 a.m., 3 p.m., Tuesday- 8:30 p.m. Thursday- 7:30 p.m Fri., Sat.- 7 p.m. Sunday- 6 p.m. 8-10 p.m. Friday- 8 p.m. 6 p.m. Spades: Game tourney: Open court basketball: Aerobics: Salsa Class: Tue., Thu.,- 7 a.m., Wednesday- 2 a.m., Thursday- 1 p.m, 8 p.m. Thursday- 7 p.m. Mon., Wed., Fri.- EAST RECREATION Saturday- 8:30 p.m. 3 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Enlisted Poker: Open court soccer: 5:30-6:30 a.m. CENTER Poker: Sunday- 5:45 a.m., Salsa: Friday- 1 p.m., 8 p.m. Mon., Wed., - 7 p.m. Yoga Class: 4-ball tourney: Saturday- 7:30 p.m. 7 a.m., 3 p.m. Wednesday- 8:30 p.m. Officer Poker: Zingano Brazilian Jui Mon., Fri.- 6-7 a.m. Sunday- 8 p.m P90x: 9-ball: Saturday- 1 p.m., 8 p.m. Jitsu: Step Aerobics: 8-ball tourney: H6 FITNESS CENTER Monday- Saturday- 4:30 Thursday- 2 a.m., Squat Competition: Tue., Thu.,- 8:30 p.m. Mon., Wed., Fri.- Monday- 8 p.m Spin: a.m., 4 p.m., 10 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Saturday- 8 p.m. 5:30 p.m. Karaoke: Sunday- 9 a.m. 12 a.m. Karaoke: CIRCUIT GYM Conditioning Training Monday- 8 p.m. Mon., Wed., Fri.,- 2 a.m., Soccer: Thursday- 8:30 p.m. WEST FITNESS Floor hockey: Class: Swing Class: 8 a.m. 2 p.m., 7 p.m., Tue., Thu.,- 8 p.m. Dominos: CENTER Mon., Wed., Fri.,– Mon., Wed., Fri.- 7:15- Tuesday- 8 p.m. 9 p.m. Yoga: Saturday- 8:30 p.m. 3 on 3 basketball 8-10 p.m 8 p.m. Table Tennis: Tue., Thu., -5:45 a.m., Wednesday- 8 p.m. Darts: tourney: Brazilian Jui-Jitsu: Tuesday- 8 p.m. 9 a.m., 8:30 p.m. MCAP Level 1: Saturday- 8:30 p.m. Saturday- 7:30 p.m.

Sustainer Reel Time Theater Movie Times Movies This Week Wednesday, October 29 Pride and Glory The Family 5 p.m. Quarantine 8 p.m. Babylon A.D. A gritty and emotional portrait that Preys Thursday, October 30 of the New York City Police Department, the film follows a multi- Wealthy socialite Charlotte 5 p.m. College generational police family whose Cartwright (Kathy Bates) and 8 p.m. Quarantine moral code is tested when one of her dear friend Alice Pratt (Alfre Friday, October 31 two sons on the force investigates an Woodard), a working class woman 8:30 p.m. Pride and Glory incendiary case involving his older of high ideals, have enjoyed a Saturday, November 1 brother and brother-in-law. The case lasting friendship throughout many forces the family to choose between years. Suddenly, their lives become 2 p.m. The Women their loyalties to one another and mired in turmoil as their adult 5 p.m. Pride And Glory their loyalties to the department. children’s extramarital affairs, 8 p.m. Righteous Kill unethical business practices and a dark paternity secret threaten Sunday, November 2 to derail family fortunes and unravel the lives of all involved. 2 p.m. Righteous Kill Righteous Kill In the midst of the turmoil, Charlotte and Alice decide to take a breather from it all by making a cross-country road trip. 5 p.m. The Women Two veteran detectives (Robert 8 p.m. The Family That Preys De Niro, Al Pacino) hunt a vigilante Movies Monday, November 3 whose crimes resemble those of a The Women Coming Soon 5 p.m. The Family That Preys killer they put behind bars long Mary Haines (Meg Ryan) is a 8 p.m. The Women ago. clothing designer who seems to have it all – a beautiful country Tuesday, November 4 home, a rich financier husband, an 5 p.m. Righteous Kill adorable 11-year-old daughter and 8 p.m. Pride And Glory a part-time career creating designs for her father’s venerable clothing (Schedule is subject to change) company. Her best friend, Sylvie Fowler (Annette Bening), leads another enviable life – a happily Movies Coming Soon single editor of a prominent fashion magazine, a possessor of a huge closet of designer clothes and a revered arbiter of taste and style poised on New York’s cutting edge. But when Mary’s husband enters into an affair with Crystal Allen (Eva Mendes), a sultry ‘spritzer girl’ lurking behind the Saks Fifth Avenue perfume counter, all hell breaks loose. Mary and Sylvie’s relationship is tested to the breaking point while their tight-knit circle of friends, including mega-mommy Edie Cohen (Debra Messing) and author Alex Fisher (Jada Pinkett-Smith), all start to question their own friendships and romantic relationships as well. PAGE 14 Expeditionary Times October 29, 2008 News around Iraq been here. It went from having hardly any checkpoints to Security level allows thousands having them every one or two blocks here,” said Marti- nez. “I think that helps the public. They see the IPs or IAs to view soccer match all over the place or on patrols and it lets the people know that the (ISF) are taking charge of their country. It gives SAMARRA, Iraq – Thousands of spectators filled the (the ISF) a face to the public so they can see how they’re stands at the Samarra Sports Complex to wit- working hard to make their country better. ness a soccer match between club teams from “It seems as if the people will approach them for any Samarra and Baghdad Oct. 19. problems, because they’re used to seeing the ISF out As a show of the level of security the city there,” he said, adding that the citizens’ requests for ISF is now experiencing, thousands were able to gather and assistance illustrates that the people trust them to keep watch as Football Club Samarra defeated Football Club the peace. Baghdad Student Union 3-1. The U.S. presence in the area provides more of a sup- This match marked the first time two soccer port role and assistance in professionalizing the ISF, said teams were able to play in the once embattled 1st Lt. Cory Guenther, Company C fire support officer. city since the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. “Our working with them shows them a baseline of Several months ago, Coalition and Iraqi Security what standards we’re using and gives them a (sugges- Forces were clashing with enemy fighters inside tion) of some of the tasks they should be accomplishing,” the city in an attempt to rid it of insurgent activ- he said. ity. With each patrol including IA and IP personnel, ISF provided the overall security for the event and the there are fewer U.S. Soldiers required for the mis- match ended with no incidents. sions, which places less strain on U.S. manpower, “Through the cooperation of Iraqi Security Forces, “Since May said Guenther. Sons of Iraq and Coalition Forces; and the active support 29, formation of The Iraqis will take more and more of the secu- of the city’s residents, Samarra is now safe enough to host Task Force Gold, the rity responsibilities and the Company C Soldiers a soccer game that attracted thousands of spectators,” said OE Gold sector of Sadr will fade more and more into the background, Lt. Col. JP McGee, 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regi- City has been transformed until they are no longer needed. ment commander. “This soccer game holds huge signifi- by new and improved infra- Working with the Americans helps the ISF become cance for Samarra and all of Iraq. After years of violence structure and services provided to the more proficient, said Hori, a Soldier with the 4th Bn., 8th and unrest, Samarra has expelled terrorists and established residents of Baghdad’s most densely populated district by IA Division. He said that they are all working together a degree of security unimaginable a year ago.” Task Force Gold and the engineers of the 926th Engineer and eager for the time when the ISF will be able to do McGee said the fact that a team from Baghdad could Brigade,” said Olsen. their jobs without foreign assistance and Iraq will be travel to Samarra, play in a soccer match and then return In 120 days, 33 schools were renovated in OE Gold; strong and self-reliant. home safely represents a return of normalcy to Iraq and seven public health clinics were upgraded and re-outfit- the reuniting of the country. ted. Newly installed solar lighting on main thoroughfares Primary school opens for “Samarra’s triumph makes it all the more special,” he brings safety and neighborhood security to a war-torn dis- said. “In this type of struggle, victory will not be marked trict. Multiple micro-generators bring dependable elec- Baghdad children by a formal surrender ceremony as in past conflicts. Rath- tricity to thousands of families in Sadr City who were er, events like this soccer game will herald Iraq’s triumph previously deprived of regular power. Parks, playgrounds BAGHDAD – The Al Furtain Primary School opened in over terrorism and Iraq’s reemergence as a strong, united and recreation facilities, including soccer fields and a Baghdad’s Mansour district Oct. 12. nation.” swimming pool, were built throughout OE Gold. The ceremony marked the completion Apart from the significant quality of life makeover in of renovations brought about through the Engineers commit to Task OE Gold, Task Force Gold focused its efforts on route sani- combined efforts of members of the Khadra tation and regular trash hauling, yielding breakthroughs in Neighborhood Advisory Council and the Mansour Dis- Force Gold Spike safety and sanitation, as well as sewer line maintenance. trict Advisory Council, Iraqi Security and Coalition Priority for Task Force Gold Spike reconstruction will be Forces. BAGHDAD – Recently, Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, in the northern Rusafa district neighborhoods. These groups worked together to add new windows, commanding general, Multi-National Division Task Force Gold Spike, working in partnership with new doors, fresh paint and refurbished bathrooms to im- – Baghdad and 4th Infantry Division, issued the Government of Iraq and the mayor of Baghdad, will prove the school which provides education to approxi- FRAGO 211, creating Task Force Gold Spike, accomplish its work in three phases: phase 1-project as- mately 400 Iraqi boys and girls. a unit of the 926th Engineer Brigade tasked sessment and prioritization of projects; phase 2- project “The much needed renovations to the school will with the reconstruction of the Rusafa district. generation and phase 3-project management to comple- assist Iraq’s future generations to enjoy school facili- Task Force Gold Spike will assist the Government of tion ties that are more conducive to learning,” said Maj. Jay Iraq through reconstruction and restoration of essential Bullock, operations officer, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry services using local national contractors within Rusafa. IA, IP and U.S. Soldiers Regiment. Their projects will be funded with Construction Emergen- With security set and renovations complete, teachers cy Resource Projects and Iraqi-Construction Emergency together for a nation will be able to concentrate on education, instead of fear Resource Projects funds. CAMP ECHO, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers, Iraqi Police or run-down equipment or buildings, said Haji Sattar Col. Jared Olsen, deputy commander, 926th Engineer and U.S. Soldiers are living and working to- from the Khadra Neighborhood Advisory Council. Brigade, commands both Task Force Gold and Task Force gether at the Joint Security Station in Diwan- “The renovations to this school will allow teachers to Gold Spike. iya. This, along with daily missions and cross- concentrate on education and not broken windows, plas- “Task Force Gold Spike will stimulate the Government training, illustrates they are all dedicated to one ter falling from ceilings, and lack of lighting,” Sattar of Iraq to deliver essential services to the people of Ru- goal: a self-sustaining and independently-secured Iraq. said. “Students will enjoy the newly improved environ- safa necessary for their health and well being,” said Brig. In the short time since the arrival of Company C, 2nd ment that is a signal for their bright future.” Gen. Jeffery Talley, commander, 926th Engineer Brigade. Combined Arms Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Students treated the audience, which included the “Our initial projects will concentrate on sewer, water, Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, they have deputy minister of education, to a brief presentation and trash hauling/clearance and solar lighting. Modeled after conducted training and daily missions that keep the Iraqi the singing of the Iraqi national anthem. Task Force Gold, Task Force Gold Spike will improve liv- Security Forces in the forefront and the U.S. Soldiers pro- “The success of the renovation lies in the team effort. ing conditions and the quality of life in Rusafa.” viding assistance when needed. Local Iraqi neighborhood and district area councils pro- “The creation of Task Force Gold Spike is based on There is a vast improvement to the quality and capabil- vided input on which school needed renovation,” said the unprecedented success of Task Force Gold, the 926th ity of the ISF, said Staff Sgt. Adam Martinez, Company C Lt. Col. Monty Willoughby, commander, 4-10th Cav. Engineer unit rebuilding (operational environment) Gold, section sergeant. He said the ISF presence is now strong Regt. “Iraqi Army Soldiers provided security for the located in the Thawra 1 and Thawra 2 sectors of Sadr City and consistent in Diwaniya. contractors to work, and Civil Affairs Soldiers provided assigned to Coalition Forces,” said Olsen. “Iraq has changed a lot since the last two times I’ve quality assurance of the work.” October 29, 2008 Expeditionary Times PAGE 15

STUPID STATE LAWS Sudoku The objective is to fill Level: Easy Ever wonder just how dumb things can be? Does your state have dumb laws? Read on and find out. In the 9×9 grid so that the upcoming weeks, the Expeditionary Times will have a series of dumb and stupid laws for each state. 5 6 9 Many of the laws have been verified, but many have been taken from sources which do not include each column, each row, law citations. The laws cited below have been taken from news groups, web sites and city governments. and each of the nine 8 5 1 4 6 3 Remember, something had to have happened to get these laws passed. Some laws have been repealed, but 3×3 boxes contains the not all; some are still on the books. 7 8 Alabama digits from 1 to 9 only • It is legal to drive the wrong way down a one-way street if you have a lantern one time each. 3 7 2 attached to the front of your automobile. • Putting salt on a railroad track may be punishable by death. Last weeks answers 6 8 9 4 • It is considered an offense to open an umbrella on a street, for fear of spooking 9 1 7 2 5 4 8 6 3 horses. 2 8 6 7 3 9 5 1 4 1 5 7 Alaska 3 5 4 1 8 6 7 9 2 • While it is legal to shoot bears, waking a sleeping bear for the purpose of tak- 5 3 8 6 4 7 1 2 9 7 6 1 3 9 2 4 5 8 2 4 ing a photograph is prohibited. 4 9 2 5 1 8 6 3 7 • Moose may not be viewed from an airplane. 8 4 5 9 6 3 2 7 1 9 8 3 5 7 6 • It is considered an offense to push a live moose out of a moving airplane. 1 7 9 4 2 5 3 8 6 • In Anchorage, no one may tie their pet dog to the roof of a car. 6 2 3 8 7 1 9 4 5 4 6 5

PVT. MURPHY’S LAW Upcoming sports on AFN Wednesday 10/29/08 5:30 AFN/xtra NHL on Versus: Philadelphia Flyers @ Atlanta NBA Friday: San Antonio Spurs @ Portland Trail Thrashers, live 2 a.m. AFN/xtra Blazers * 2-Hr ESPN Cutdown Version, tape delayed NBA Opening Night on TNT: NBA Tip-Off ‘08 - 10 a.m. AFN/sports Celtics Ring Ceremony, live 2 a.m. AFN/sports College Football: Teams TBD, live 7 p.m. AFN/sports NBA Opening Night on TNT: Cleveland Cavaliers @ College Football: Teams TBD, live 7 p.m. AFN/xtra Boston Celtics, live 3 a.m. AFN/sports College Football: Teams TBD, live 8 p.m. AFN/prime NBA Opening Night on TNT: Portland Trail Blazers atlantic @ Los Angeles Lakers, live 5:30 AFN/sports College Football: Teams TBD, live 10:30 p.m. AFN/ NHL: Pittsburgh Penguins @ San Jose Sharks, live prime atlantic 5:30 AFN/xtra College Football: Teams TBD, live 10:30 p.m. AFN/ NFL RePLAY - Game 1: Teams TBD * 90-Minute sports Fast-Paced Game of the Week, tape delayed 1 p.m. AFN/sports Sunday 11/2/08 NFL RePLAY - Game 2: Teams TBD * 90-Minute College Football: Teams TBD, live 3 a.m. AFN/prime Fast-Paced Game of the Week, tape delayed 2:30 p.m. atlantic AFN/sports College Football: Teams TBD, live 3 a.m. AFN/sports NBA Opening Night on TNT: Cleveland Cavaliers @ College Football: Teams TBD, live 3 a.m. AFN/xtra Boston Celtics, tape delayed 6 p.m. AFN/sports College Football: Teams TBD, tape delayed 10 a.m. NBA Opening Night on TNT: Portland Trail Blazers AFN/sports @ Los Angeles Lakers, tape delayed 6 p.m. AFN/ CBS NFL Today or FOX NFL Sunday, live 7 p.m. sports AFN/prime atlantic CBS NFL Today or FOX NFL Sunday, live 7 p.m. Thursday 10/30/08 AFN/xtra 2008 World Series - Game 6: Philadelphia Phillies NFL: Week 9: Teams TBD, live 8 p.m. AFN/sports @ Tampa Bay Rays (If Necessary), live 3 a.m. AFN/ NFL: Week 9: Teams TBD, live 8 p.m. AFN/prime sports atlantic NBA Wednesday: Phoenix Suns @ San Antonio Spurs, NFL: Week 9: Teams TBD, live 8 p.m. AFN/xtra live 3 a.m. AFN/xtra NFL: Week 9: Teams TBD, live 11 p.m. AFN/sports NBA Wednesday: Los Angeles Lakers @ Los Angeles NFL: Week 9: Teams TBD, live 11 p.m. AFN/prime Clippers, live 5:30 a.m. AFN/xtra atlantic NFL RePLAY - Game 3: Teams TBD * 90-Minute NASCAR Sprint Cup Series: Dickies 500 (Texas Fast-Paced Game of the Week, tape delayed 10 a.m. Motor Speedway, Fort Worth, TX) (JIP), live 11 p.m. AFN/sports AFN/xtra NFL RePLAY - Game 4: Teams TBD * 90-Minute Iraq according to Opet Fast-Paced Game of the Week, tape delayed 11:30 Monday 11/3/08 a.m. AFN/sports ESPN College Football Primetime: East Carolina @ 2008 World Series - Game 6: Philadelphia Phillies @ UCF, live 3:15 a.m. AFN/xtra Tampa Bay Rays (If Necessary), tape delayed 1 p.m. NBC Sunday Night Football - Week 9: New England AFN/sports Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts, live 3:15 a.m. AFN/ 2008 World Series - Game 6: Philadelphia Phillies @ sports Tampa Bay Rays (If Necessary), tape delayed 8 p.m. NFL: Week 9: Teams TBD, tape delayed 7 a.m. AFN/sports AFN/xtra NHRA POWERade Drag Racing: ACDelco Las Vegas Friday 10/31/08 NHRA Nationals, tape delayed 10 a.m. AFN/xtra NBA on TNT: Houston Rockets @ Dallas Mavericks, ATP Tennis Masters Series - BNP Paribas Masters: live 3 a.m. AFN/xtra Men’s Final (Paris, France), tape delayed 11 a.m. 2008 World Series - Game 7: Philadelphia Phillies AFN/sports @ Tampa Bay Rays (If Necessary), live 3 a.m. AFN/ NBC Sunday Night Football - Week 9: New England sports Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts, tape delayed 2 p.m. NBA on TNT: New Orleans Hornets @ Phoenix Suns, AFN/sports live 5:30 a.m. AFN/xtra NBC Sunday Night Football - Week 9: New England ESPN College Football Primetime: South Florida Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts, tape delayed 8 p.m. @ Cincinnati * 2-hr ESPN Cutdown Version, tape AFN/sports delayed 10 a.m. AFN/sports 2008 World Series - Game 7: Philadelphia Phillies @ Tuesday 11/4/08 Tampa Bay Rays (If Necessary), tape delayed 1 p.m. NHL on Versus: Buffalo Sabres @ New Jersey Devils, AFN/sports live 2 a.m. AFN/xtra 2008 World Series - Game 7: Philadelphia Phillies @ ESPN Monday Night Football - Week 9: Pittsburgh Tampa Bay Rays (If Necessary), tape delayed 8 p.m. Steelers @ Washington Redskins, live 3:30 AFN/sports AFN/sports NBA: Utah Jazz @ Los Angeles Clippers, live 5:30 Saturday 11/1/08 a.m. AFN/xtra NBA: Sacramento Kings @ Miami Heat, live 3 a.m. ESPN Monday Night Football - Week 9: Pittsburgh AFN/sports Steelers @ Washington Redskins, tape delayed 1 p.m. Vancouver Canucks @ Anaheim Ducks, live 5 a.m. AFN/sports AFN/prime pacific ESPN Monday Night Football - Week 9: Pittsburgh NBA Friday: San Antonio Spurs @ Portland Trail Steelers @ Washington Redskins, tape delayed 8 p.m. Blazers, live 5:30 a.m. AFN/sports AFN/sports NBA: Denver Nuggets @ Los Angeles Clippers, live PAGE 16 Expeditionary Times October 29, 2008

Soldiers ‘hoop it up’

Photo by Spc. Ryan Hohman during Top: Staff Sgt. Brian Taibodbau, a member of the 1st Squadron 32nd Cavalry Regiment based out of Fort Cambell, Ky., plays a pick up game of basket- ball at the East Morale, Welfare and Recreation Fitness center at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Oct. 23. Left: Soldiers wait to catch a rebound while they play a pick up game of bas- their off ketball at the East Morale, Welfare and Recreation Fitness center at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Oct. 23. time

Photo by Spc. Ryan Hohman Sgt. Dale Jones, a member of the1st Squadron 32nd Cavalry Regiment based out of Fort Cambell, Ky, attempts a hook shot during a pick up game of basketball at the East Morale, Welfare and Recreation Fitness center at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Oct. 23.

Photo by Spc. Ryan Hohman

Photo by Spc. Ryan Hohman

Top: Sgt. Dale Jones, a member of the 1st Squadron 32nd Cavalry Regiment based out of Fort Cambell, Ky, Texas, attempts a jump shot during a pick up game of basketball at the East Morale, Welfare and Recreation Fitness center at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Oct. 23. Left: Spc. Timothy Baily, a member of the 74th Engineer Company based out of Fort Hood, Texas, attempts a jump shot during a pick up game of basketball at the East Morale, Welfare and Recreation Fitness center at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Oct. 23. Photo by Spc. Ryan Hohman