December 24, 2008

www.dvidshub.net (search phrase: Expeditionary Times) Vol. 1, Issue 26 Gates in Balad Christmas Secretary of Defense visits with troops Spirit, Page 4 page 2 ESC History 44th MHD records Sustain- ers for future generations Page 6 B-day Wish Guardsmen re-enlist on National Guard’s 372nd Birthday Page 8

Courtesy photo The “Musical” AAFES Teddy bear controversy answered Is the singing teddy bear mailable? Yes. The teddy bear is mailable and should be packaged in a way that it will not activate during shipment. (Tip: If multiple things are going in the box, U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kiyoshi Freeman place the bear in its own box and then Chaplain (Major) Lewis, the brigade chaplain of 371st Sustainment Brigade, supervises an assembly line of volunteers packing Christmas place in the larger box). stockings at Al Asad Air Base on Dec. 6. Lewis estimated he would need approximately 3,000 stockings, one for every Soldier in the brigade. The nonmailable list states “Mailable batteries must be removed from the device they power and be protected from short circuiting,” this item is Sustainers conduct transfer of authority mailable and has been approved to be d St o r y b y 3 Su s t a i n m e n t distribution of all classes “Your efforts were a critical with Iraqi trucking companies shipped, according to a representative from the Military Postal Service Agency Co m m a n d (Expeditionary ) of supply as well as for part to the greatly improved and local communities to and DHL. Pu b l i c Af f a i r s Of f i c e providing maintenance, security situation throughout improve supplies of clean human resources and financial ,” said the guest speaker, water and reconstruct schools Recommended mailing dates TALLIL, Iraq – The 7th management support to the Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, in both Muthanna and Dhi Qar for delivery by Dec. 25 Sustainment Soldiers and units of Multi- commanding general of the 3d provinces. From Iraq to the U.S. Brigade transferred National -Center, ESC. “I look back at all the - Domestic deadlines & regular mail to authority to U.S. destinations - Dec. 20 Center-South, and Southeast. During their tour, the 7th things that we accomplished the 287th From the U.S. to: Since arriving in October Sust. Bde. partnered with and all I can say is that I’m • Iraq & Afghanistan - by Dec. 4 Sustainment 2007, Soldiers of the brigade Coalition allies such as the awed at what we did, but just • Other military overseas APO/FPO Brigade from issued more than 331 million Romanian contingent and mostly proud,” said Col. Mark locations - Dec. 11 Wichita, Kan., during a • Express Mail to other overseas gallons of fuel, produced led the way in mentoring Barbosa, the 7th Sust. Bde. ceremony at contingency military locations - Dec. 18 more than 89 million bottles logistics units, commander. • Express Mail to certain U.S loca- operating base Adder Dec. 19. of water, delivered over 3.5 helping to increase Iraq’s “The team from Kansas tions - Dec. 23 As a 3d Sustainment million meals and executed drive towards logistical self- brought an incredible array • Express Mail to most major cities Command (Expeditionary) - Dec. 24 & 25 more than 3,800 convoys sustainment. Additionally, the unit, the 7th Sust. Bde. Follow the APO/FPO general mailing accounting for over 14 million brigade contributed to Iraqi restrictions when shipping or receiving from Fort Eustis, Va., was miles traveled. civil capacity through teaming See TRANSFER mail this holiday season. responsible for supply and Page 4 PAGE 2 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s December 24, 2008

332 ESFS Blotter 27 Nov. – 03 Dec. Damage to Private Property: A civilian contractor entered the Eagles Nest to log a complaint concerning damage to private property. The desk sergeant as- sisted the contractor in completing a statement. The contractor stated he accidently laundered his passport. The contractor was informed to report back to security forces after 72 hours for a copy of the statement.

UXO Discovery: A civilian contractor notified security forces of a possible UXO located in the ICP gravel yard. SF patrols responded, inspected the area, determined the UXO to be a 57 mm rocket, and initi- ated cordon procedures. EOD and the fire department arrived on-scene. EOD took control of the UXO for destruction. SF re- sponse terminated.

Medical Emergency: Security forces were notified of a medical emergency involving a civilian contractor. SF patrolmen responded to the scene and made contact with medical personnel treating the victim. The patrolmen were informed the victim would be transported to the base hospital due to a lower back injury. SF response was terminated.

Theft of Private Property: A civilian contractor entered the Eagles Nest to report theft of his private property. The desk sergeant assisted the contractor with a statement. The contractor stated that upon return to his quarters, he noticed his door ajar and his property missing. The contractor was advised to report back to security forces after 72 hours to obtain a copy of the incident report.

NIPR- 443-8602 SIPR- 241-1171 Email- [email protected]

Corrections A photo published in last week’s paper, “Touchdown in Al Asad,” the U.S. Army photo by should state U.S. Army photo illustration by Spc. Kiyoshi Freeman.

An article published in last week’s paper about the transfer of authority ceremony incorrectly attributed certain quotes to Col. Mark Drake. The statements, which concerned future changes in the 10th Sust. Bde.’s operational environment and appeared at the end of the story, should have been attributed to Sgt. Maj. Allen Fritszching.

EXPEDITIONARY TIMES 3d ESC Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally Expeditionary Times is authorized for publication by Managing Editor the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) for the Maj. Paul Hayes, 3d ESC PAO 123rd MPAD First Sergeant Spc. Kelly Anne Beck Joint Base Balad community. The contents of the Ex- [email protected] 1st Sgt. Reginald M. Smith [email protected] peditionary Times are unofficial and are not to be con- [email protected] sidered the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Spc. Kiyoshi C. Freeman d [email protected] Government, including the Department of Defense or 3 ESC PAO NCOIC 123rd MPAD Production Editor Sgt. 1st Class David McClain, 3d ESC Staff Sgt. Tonya Gonzales Operation Iraqi Freedom. [email protected] [email protected] Expeditionary Times is a command information news- Contributing Public Affairs Offices paper in accordance with Army Regulation 360-1 and 3d ESC Staff Writers 123rd MPAD Photo Editor 10th Sustainment Brigade reviewed by the ESC G2 for security purposes. Spc. Michael Behlin, 3d ESC Spc. Brian A. Barbour 16th Sustainment Brigade Expeditionary Times is published weekly by the Stars [email protected] [email protected] 371st Sustainment Brigade and Stripes central office, with a circulation of 8,000 287th Sustainment Brigade Spc. Amanda Tucker, 3d ESC papers. 123rd MPAD Layout and Design 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing [email protected] Spc. Mario A. Aguirre The Public Affairs Office is located on New Jer- 555th Engineer Brigade sey Ave. Building 7508, DSN 318-433-2154. [email protected] 3d ESC G2, Security Manager 55th Sustainment Brigade Expeditionary Times, HHC 3d ESC, APO Lt. Col Dale Davis, 3d ESC 123rd MPAD Staff Writers 402nd Army Field Support Brigade AE 09391. Web site at www.dvidshub.net [email protected] Sgt. Crystal G. Reidy CJSOTF-AP [email protected] Contact the Expeditionary Times staff at: Task Force 34 [email protected] 123rd MPAD Commander Sgt. Alexander Snyder Maj. Christopher A. Emmons [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, partners, 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. December 24, 2008 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 3 JBB Religious Service Schedule PROTESTANT

TRADITIONAL Sunday 0730 Air Force Hospital Chapel 0930 Provider Chapel 1030 Freedom Chapel (West side) 1100 Castle Heights (Bldg 4155) 1730 Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H-6) 2000 Air Force Hospital Chapel

HISPANIC SERVICE Saturday 1930 Provider Chapel

GOSPEL Sunday 1100 MWR East building 1200 Freedom Chapel (West side) 1230 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) 1900 Provider Chapel

CONTEMPORARY Sunday 0900 MWR East building 1030 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) 1400 Castle Heights (Bldg 4155) 1900 Freedom Chapel (West side) Wednesday 2000 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6)

LITURGICAL Sunday 1500 Gilbert Chapel (H-6)

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Saturday 0900 Provider Chapel U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kiyoshi C. Freeman USO Rocks! CHURCH OF CHRIST Sunday 1530 Castle Heights (Bldg 4155) AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq -- Kid Rock performs for service members during a USO tour here at the Jordan-Hare Stadium on Dec. 19. Kid CHRISTIAN SCIENCE Rock was part of a USO tour which also featured comedian Lewis Call the Provider Chapel Black and singer Kellie Pickler.

LATTER DAY SAINTS (MORMON) Sunday 1300 Provider Chapel 1530 Freedom Chapel (West side) Operation Christmas Spirit 1900 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) By Sp c . Ki y o s h i C. Fr e e m a n According to Lewis, one teenage girl, the daughter Expeditionary Times Staff of former service members, decided to forgo her own ROMAN CATHOLIC MASS AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq – Operation Christmas Christmas gifts to buy stockings and items for troops Saturday 1700 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) Spirit began here this week, an effort led overseas. (Sacrament of Reconciliation Sat 1600 or by by a National Guard chaplain to hand out The boxes began arriving at the end of September, appointment) thousands of Christmas stockings to the and Lewis said he expects to receive 300 boxes before 2000 Freedom Chapel(West side) 371st Sustainment Brigade Soldiers of the end of the holiday season. The boxes were packed Sunday 0830 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) the Ohio Army National Guard. with candy, puzzle books, Christmas CDs and movies, 1100 Provider Chapel Chaplain (Major) James socks, beef jerky and other assorted goods, all of which 1100 Air Force Hospital Chapel Lewis, the 371st Sust. Bde. chaplain Lewis had to open and separate. Thursday 1100 Air Force Hospital Chapel and native of Kent, Ohio, said the goal of the project is Lewis said his biggest challenge is figuring out Mon, Wed, Fri 1700 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) “to bring a tangible sense of Christmas cheer to every how to pack the stockings and make them equitable. Soldier within the brigade,” especially new, young Not every stocking will be packed the same way, but JEWISH SHABBAT SERVICES Soldiers who may be on their first deployment away having some sort of balance is important, he said, “so Friday 1700 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) from home. some macho kind of guy doesn’t get a stocking with Saturday 0800 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) Lewis said the idea came from a previous deployment, women’s socks.” 1700 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) when another chaplain attempted to give a stocking to An assembly line will be set up outside the chaplain’s every service member in Afghanistan. coffee house, called “Holey Grounds”, where volunteers ISLAMIC PRAYER Though on a much smaller scale, Lewis’ goal will be able to fill the Christmas stockings and then Friday 1230 Provider Chapel still presented its own challenges – namely filling pack them for shipment. Unit ministry teams, usually and distributing approximately 3,000 Christmas a chaplain and his assistant, will ensure the stockings PAGAN/WICCAN FELLOWSHIP stockings. are distributed throughout their units before the end Thursday 1900 Eden Chapel “Because I’m a chaplain,” he said, “I happen to run of the month. Saturday 1900 Eden Chapel into a lot of organizations that say, ‘What can we do to More importantly, Lewis said, is how Operation support the troops?’ It’s hard these days with a mature Christmas Spirit allows him to reach out and connect GREEK ORTHODOX battlefield situation for the folks back home to be able with every Soldier in the 371st Sust. Bde., a rare Sunday 0900 Provider Annex to demonstrate their support.” opportunity only possible during the holidays. Lewis informed interested parties and non-profit “The biggest concern that I have is for those Soldiers organizations – like churches, the Cub Scouts, the who might have a particularly tough time being away For more information, call Foreign Legion, Blue Star Moms and the United Service from home,” he said. “Those you know are having a Gilbert Chapel: 433-7703 Organization – on how they could help by providing a difficult time (or) those you don’t know are having a Provider Chapel: 433-2430 list of suggested items they could send. difficult time.” Freedom Chapel: 443-6303 The response has surprised him. PAGE 4 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s December 24, 2008 Gates visits Sustainers at Joint Base Balad b y Sp c . Ki y o s h i C. Fr e e m a n multiple branches of service Expeditionary Times Staff and hosted a town hall event at the Morale, Welfare and JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Recreation-East building Dr. Robert M. Gates, Secretary here. of Defense met At the town hall, when asked with military about his decision to stay l e a d e r s a n d on as Secretary of Defense, visited service Gates said, “No reason was members more compelling to me than here Dec. the fact that if hundreds of 13 as part thousands of young Americans of a tour are doing their duty – your through the Middle East. duty – without fail and often While at Joint Base Balad, under difficult and dangerous Gates met with Gen. Ray circumstances, then I really Odierno, commander of Multi- had no choice but to follow National Force – Iraq; Lt. Gen. suit.” Lloyd Austin, commander of Gates praised the military’s Multi-National Corps – Iraq; efforts to improve warrior Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, the care and medical evacuations. commander of 3d Sustainment He said everything possible Command (Expeditionary); was being done to protect U.S. Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour Air Force Brig. Gen. Brian T. service members and get Service members listen to Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates during his visit to Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Bishop, the commander of them home safe, and he cited Dec. 13. The town hall meeting allowed service members to ask questions of the Secretary of Defense. 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing; how quickly the Department and other senior personnel. of Defense deployed 12,000 Gates had nothing but praise probably with better pay,” he This is Gates’ ninth trip to Earlier in the day, Gates Mine-Resistant and Ambush- for the service members. said, “but you chose to step Iraq. had lunch with senior non- Protected vehicles as proof. “Each one of you could have forward and wear the country’s commissioned officers from In his opening remarks, done something easier, safer, uniform.”

responsible for sustainment TRANSFER of Coalition forces south of Continued from Page 1 Baghdad. “I want to pledge that I will continue those efforts and I will take those of talent,” Barbosa added, to the next level to continue referring to his unit’s our relationship with the Col. Mark Barbosa and Com- replacements, the 287th Sust. community in Iraq,“ said Col. mand Sgt. Maj. Lesly McCorkle, Bde. “I’m really impressed. both with the 7th Sustainment Robert Schmitt, the 287th I actually believe they are Brigade, 3d Sustainment Com- Sust. Bde. commander. ready to take this mission to mand (Expeditionary), case their Schmitt then told his the next level” unit’s organizational color during Soldiers, “We have a difficult The 287th Sust. Bde. a transfer of authority ceremony job in front of us and, yes, we with 287th Sust. Bde. at contin- replaces the 7th Sust. Bde. at have very tough shoes to fill, gency operating base Adder Dec. COB Adder and will remain 19. but I know we’re ready.” U.S. Army photo by Master Sgt. Carl Mar 1st TSC commander visits 3d ESC St o r y a n d p h o t o b y and streamline sustainment Sp c . Ki y o s h i Fr e e m a n operations throughout Iraq. Expeditionary Times Staff “A lot of people don’t realize how much you’re doing for JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq the people of Iraq,” he said, – Brig. Gen. referring to the 3d ESC’s effort (promotable) to train Iraqi logisticians and James E. Rogers, support Iraq’s civil distribution the commanding network. g e n e r a l o f The 1st Theater Sustainment 1 s t T h e a t e r Command from Fort Bragg, Sustainment Command, visited N.C., is responsible for the 3d Sustainment Command supporting combat operations (Expeditionary) and toured in U.S. Army Central sustainment facilities here Command, which includes Dec. 16. Iraq and Afghanistan. Rogers met with Brig. Gen. The 3d S u s t a i n m e n t Michael J. Lally, commanding Command (Expeditionary), general of the 3d ESC, and based from Fort Knox, discussed sustainment and Ky., provides headquarters distribution operations in command and control for support of Coalition forces, as operational level sustainment well as future redeployment and distribution management in support of Multi-National Brig. Gen. (P) James E. Rogers, the commanding general of 1st Theater Sustainment Command, and Brig. Gen. Michael operations. d Corps – Iraq. J. Lally, the commanding general of 3 Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), listen to a briefing from Capt. Lee Veltum, Rogers said he was impressed 679th Movement Control Team and native of Lansing, Kan., at the new convoy support center on Joint Base Balad Dec. d with everything the 3 ESC has 16. Rogers was visiting the base to discuss sustainment operations in support of Coalition forces and future redeploy- done to support the warfighter ments from Iraq. December 24, 2008 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 5

SHOUT OUT!!! TELL YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS HOW MUCH YOU MISS THEM

Contact the Expeditionary Times for more information.

E-mail: [email protected] PAGE 6 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s December 24, 2008 Historians capture Sustainers in action for future generations St o r y a n d p h o t o b y Sp c . Br i a n A. Ba r b o u r History Operations, gathering Expeditionary Times Staff historical data provides the basis for developing future Army JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq doctrine, training, leadership, - Without the organization, plans, as well existence as, materiel and management o f m i l i t a r y techniques. historians, it’s “There hasn’t been any focus possible that on logistics. How are we feeding a Soldiers the Army, how are we clothing h e r o i c the Army? Not only ours, but the efforts in Iraqi Army as well,” said Green. Iraq could be forgotten. “Our mission is to collect that The 44th Military History data and to document it.” Detachment from Fort An MHD is an independent McPherson, Ga., currently team that compiles historical deployed here in support of material to supplement the 3 d Sustainment Command historical records of Army units (Expeditionary), is composed in the field. The data collected of one officer, one non- by MHDs is sent to the U.S. commissioned officer, and one Army Center of Military History enlisted soldier. Of the 25 MHDs in Washington, D.C., where it in the Army, the 44th MHD is is catalogued in the Military Spc. Hillary McKey from Memphis, Tenn., Capt. Joseph Green from Aiken, S.C., and Staff Sgt. John Brown from Phila- the only active duty detachment. History Collection System delphia Mo., are members of the 44th Military History Detachment which is deployed to Joint Base Balad, Iraq. The 44th MHD, from Fort McPherson Ga., is the only active duty MHD in the Army. The other MHDs are found in Integration. This collected the Reserves (19) and National data consists of electronic documents. dump,” said Green. “We take “The center for military Guard (five). media, paper document records, According to Green, those hard drives with us when history would like individual Historical documentation maps, photographs, audio and one method used to collect we visit a unit and plug them history, to see what the Soldiers for the 3d ESC is specifically video recordings, artifacts, and information is by gathering directly into a computer or experience was like during this important because the collection other historical documents not digital documents compiled and server and download data, file time frame,” said Green. “We of historical data in the logistics preserved by a unit. stored on a unit’s computers. for file.” try to capture the best we can, arena hasn’t been captured With current technology, The 44th MHD is equipped Conducting interviews is how Soldiers are feeling, their before, said Capt. Joseph Green, most unit’s historical materials with 500 gigabyte external hard another method to document morale, what their jobs are, so an Aiken, S.C., native and officer are stored electronically drives as part of their issued Army history on the battlefield. we can paint a picture of what in charge for the 44th MHD. on computers, such as equipment and uses them to The 44th MHD conducts many the typical life of a Soldier was According to the U.S. Army slideshow presentations, collect stored unit data. interviews of service members like during this rotation.” Field Manual 1-20, Military digital photographs, and text “It’s loosely called a data in the 3d ESC. December 24, 2008 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 7 3d ESC Soldier excited to be involved with the convoy security company training

St o r y a n d p h o t o b y and Seward, Alaska, native. Soldiers and has Sp c . Mi c h a e l Be h l i n Pilch, a 16 year service been something Expeditionary Times Staff member, took an enthusiastic that was more JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – approach to ensuring the safety prevalent in his Training Soldiers of Soldiers with his position military career to become within the CSC. during his time as a safer and more As a battle captain for the noncommissioned knowledgeable CSC, Pilch was responsible for officer six years o n t h e facilitating training with key ago. equipment instructors for each company. T h e f o r m e r t h e y w i l l Each brigade combat team has s t a f f s e r g e a n t be using around 20-24 companies that was excited to in Iraq is a big deal to 3d he coordinates with, and locks watch Soldiers Sustainment Command in the times and amount of go through the (Expeditionary) commanding vehicles they will use. training process general, Brig. Gen. Michael J. Pilch helps organize training and interact with Lally. that includes convoy live fire them as well. When Matter of fact, he found lanes and Blue Force tracker. asked what part this so important that he put “I think that with any of the training he into action the 3d ESC convoy familiarization training, the enjoyed, he replied, Capt. Brian Pilch, a Seward, Alaska, native, and battle captain for the 3d Sustainment Command security company, which was earlier it’s conducted, the “Soldiers.” (Expeditionary) convoy security company, explains the CSC daily battle rhythm to Brig. Gen. d based at Camp Buehring, better,” said Pilch. “The Soldiers “ I ’ v e t a k e n Michael J. Lally, 3 ESC commanding general during his visit to Camp Buehring, Kuwait. As the CSC battle captain, Pilch is responsible for facilitating training with key instructors for each Kuwait. have a better understanding of some ownership incoming company. The CSC consisted of a 10- how big and powerful these of this training man team from 3d ESC Soldiers vehicles are.” because when I see try to develop further.” eliminate the accident rate in appointed by Lally to help So far, Pilch said the training these young Soldiers faces, who From his interaction with country. reduce the accident rate in the has been phenomenal as the are our brothers and sisters in trainers and Soldiers who Pilch and his fellow CSC command. Doing so, the 3d CSC has met the commanding arms,” said Pilch. “Anything we conducted the training, Pilch cadre expect the accident ESC pulled Soldiers from its general’s intent on getting can do to help facilitate them said the feedback has been rates to drop in the future for combat security units to form Soldiers familiar with the Mine- being safe, I’m all for it.” outstanding. The Soldiers have incoming BCTs. To sum it a complete team of organizers Resistance Ambush-Protected “We’re put into harm’s been grateful and enthusiastic all up, he has given the CSC and trainers. and M1117 armored security way and that comes with our to learn and drive the various training his personal stamp of Making the trip to Kuwait vehicles, that the Army is using jobs, and we know that,” he pieces of equipment they will approval. with the team is Capt. Brian in theater. continued. “But anything we operate in Iraq. He said that at “I believe in it,” Pilch said, Pilch, a support operations Fueling Pilch’s enthusiasm can do to keep Soldiers safe, we his level of leadership, he hopes “and I’m proud to be a part mobility officer for the 3d ESC throughout the training were as leaders need to embrace and the training will help reduce or of it.” T F Muleskinner makes history in Iraq Kevin G. O’Connell, 1st Sust. command and control of one 4,500 Soldiers and provides relief operations. In December St o r y a n d p h o t o b y Bde. O’Connell’s brigade served sustainment brigade troops support to more than 90,000 of that year, they deployed Sg t . 1s t Cl a ss a 15-month deployment. battalion and three combat Soldiers in support of Operation again to in support Mi k e Br a n t l e y 10th SBDE PAO The Muleskinners assumed sustainment support battalions, Iraqi Freedom. of Operation Restore Hope. consisting of “We provide all the food, In September 1994, the 10th CAMP TAJI, Iraq -- The 10th Soldiers from water, ammunition, repair DISCOM deployed to Haiti Sustainment 22 different parts and distribution, and to support humanitarian Brigade made s t a t e s . all the truck transportation to operations as part of Operation history Dec. Task Force 17 different locations in and Uphold Democracy. 6 d u r i n g a Muleskinner’s around the Baghdad area,” said In August 1999, elements of transfer of command Drake. “We feed and fuel the the 10th DISCOM deployed to aut hority and control force in those areas.” the for peacekeeping ceremony encompasses Drake feels that the most operations as part of Task f r o m more than challenging part of that mission Force Eagle in Bosnia. Then the 1st Sustainment Brigade, is to ensure that what the Soldiers in November 2001, elements Fort Riley, Kan., marking the need is delivered on time and in again deployed to in Muleskinner’s first step into Col. Mark E. the right quantities. support of Task Force Falcon. Drake, command- Another aspect of the mission In 2001, elements of the Operation Iraqi Freedom. er, 10th Sustain- The brigade, which departed ment Brigade, is “to build on the foundation 10th DISCOM deployed to Fort Drum in early November, and Command with our Iraqi partners. We Uzbekistan in support of the is stationed at Camp Taji in Sgt. Maj. Allen G. need them to get their systems Global War on Terrorism. In Fritzsching,look back in place so they can support August 2003, the DISCOM support of the Multi-National on behind the Division – Baghdad and will be color guard as their own divisions and allow us headquarters deployed to deployed here for 12 months. the Muleskinner’s to redeploy.” Afghanistan for Operation As the brigade colors took flag is raised over “We are extremely prepared Enduring Freedom IV. the courtyard of to take over this mission,” T h e 1 0 t h D I S C O M their spot atop the flagpole the brigade head- in front of the brigade quarters at Camp Drake said. was redesignated the 10th headquarters building here, Taji, Iraq, Dec. This is the brigade’s first Sustainment Brigade in May Col. Mark E. Drake, commander 6, marking the deployment to Iraq, following 2005 and deployed back to first time in the a 1992 deployment as the 10th Afghanistan in February 2006 and a St. Paul, Minn. native, brigade’s history 10th Sust. Bde., took over from they have served Division Support Command in for OEF 7. the Clinton, Md. native, Col. in Operation Iraqi Florida for Hurricane Andrew Freedom. PAGE 8 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s December 24, 2008 Service members re-enlist, celebrate on National Guard’s 372nd Birthday

The 4th Infantry Divsion Band from Fort Hood, Texas performs for Soldiers and Airmen during a mass re-enlistment ceremony at Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory, Iraq Dec. 13.

The Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory, Iraq, where the National Guard’s mass re-enlistment ceremony occurred in the rotunda on Dec. 13, marked the National Guards 372nd birthday.

d St o r y a n d p h o t o s b y Battalion, 161st Infantry Regiment and native of Spokane, Staff Sgt. Robert Lockert, the 3 Sustainment Command 1s t Lt. Ho l l y Mo o d y Wash., said he re-enlisted in the Army National Guard (Expeditionary) retention noncommissioned officer with Expeditionary Times Staff because of the camaraderie and the experience. the Mississippi National Guard, performed for the troops “I wanted to better myself, meet new people, and get an by singing “American by God’s Grace,” with his guitar BAGHDAD – Soldiers and Airmen from around Iraq gathered education,” were the reasons Fletcher gave when asked why accompaniment. at the Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory he joined the military. “The ceremony was nice, short and The 4th Infantry Division Band from Fort Hood, Texas, on Dec. 13 to re-enlist on the National performed the national anthem while an honor guard Guard’s 372nd birthday. presented the colors. The band concluded the ceremony More than 200 guardsmen raised with the Air Force and Army songs. their right hand while Maj. Gen. Nelson J. The oath of re-enlistment was followed by a cake-cutting Cannon, director general, Civilian Police ceremony to celebrate both the commitment and sacrifices of Assistance Training Team, Directorate of these service members and the National Guard birthday. Interior Affairs, Multi-National Security The National Guard Affairs office hosted the ceremony, Transition Command – Iraq, and part of the Michigan and organized the 3.72-mile run to correspond with the National Guard, read them the oath of re-enlistment.. National Guard’s 372nd birthday the following day. “‘Always Ready, Always There’- that phrase, that slogan “It is comforting to know that for 372 years in our own speaks value about our National Guard tradition,” Cannon nation’s history, the National Guard has always been there said in his opening remarks. “Three hundred seventy-two constantly serving as one of our most enduring institutions,” years of building, serving, protecting our states and our Cannon said during his closing remarks. nation is a significant accomplishment that is all made “Here we are today…helping to build another free and possible by Soldiers and Airmen like you.” sweet, and it is cool to look back and tell my grandkids, I re- democratic nation, opening the doors of hope, stability and Maj. Gen. Nelson J. Cannon, director general, Civilian Police Assistance Training Team, Directorate of Interior Affairs, Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq, and Cannon said it is a vital role that National Guardsmen enlisted in one of Saddam’s palaces.” security in one of the most complex regions in the world,” part of the Michigan National Guard, recited the oath of re-enlistment to the Soldiers and Airmen during the mass re-enlistment ceremony at Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory, Iraq, on Dec. 13. This event marked the National Guard’s 372nd birthday. play in protecting the American way of life and defending Cpl. Abraham Velasco, a combat medic with Task Force he said. “We’re answering our nation’s call just like our freedom around the globe. 1st Bn., 161st Inf. Regt., and native of Seattle, Wash., said it forefathers did 372 years ago.” Sgt. Travis Fletcher, a combat medic for Task Force 1st was an honor to re-enlist and serve his country. December 24, 2008 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 9 Service members re-enlist, celebrate on National Guard’s 372nd Birthday

Capt. Timothy Sastic, the chaplain of the 890th Engineer Battalion with the Mississippi National Guard gives the invocation for the mass re-enlistment ceremony marking the National Guard’s 372nd birthday at Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory, Iraq, Dec. 13.

The Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory, Iraq, where the National Guard’s mass re-enlistment ceremony occurred in the rotunda on Dec. 13, marked the National Guards 372nd birthday.

d St o r y a n d p h o t o s b y Battalion, 161st Infantry Regiment and native of Spokane, Staff Sgt. Robert Lockert, the 3 Sustainment Command 1s t Lt. Ho l l y Mo o d y Wash., said he re-enlisted in the Army National Guard (Expeditionary) retention noncommissioned officer with Expeditionary Times Staff because of the camaraderie and the experience. the Mississippi National Guard, performed for the troops “I wanted to better myself, meet new people, and get an by singing “American by God’s Grace,” with his guitar BAGHDAD – Soldiers and Airmen from around Iraq gathered education,” were the reasons Fletcher gave when asked why accompaniment. at the Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory he joined the military. “The ceremony was nice, short and The 4th Infantry Division Band from Fort Hood, Texas, on Dec. 13 to re-enlist on the National performed the national anthem while an honor guard Guard’s 372nd birthday. presented the colors. The band concluded the ceremony More than 200 guardsmen raised “Here we are today…helping to with the Air Force and Army songs. their right hand while Maj. Gen. Nelson J. The oath of re-enlistment was followed by a cake-cutting Cannon, director general, Civilian Police build another free and democratic ceremony to celebrate both the commitment and sacrifices of Assistance Training Team, Directorate of these service members and the National Guard birthday. Interior Affairs, Multi-National Security nation, opening the doors of hope, The National Guard Affairs office hosted the ceremony, Transition Command – Iraq, and part of the Michigan stability and security in one of the and organized the 3.72-mile run to correspond with the National Guard, read them the oath of re-enlistment.. National Guard’s 372nd birthday the following day. “‘Always Ready, Always There’- that phrase, that slogan most complex regions in the world.” “It is comforting to know that for 372 years in our own speaks value about our National Guard tradition,” Cannon nation’s history, the National Guard has always been there said in his opening remarks. “Three hundred seventy-two - - Maj. Gen. Nelson J. Cannon constantly serving as one of our most enduring institutions,” years of building, serving, protecting our states and our Director general, CPATT, Directorate of Interior Affaris Cannon said during his closing remarks. nation is a significant accomplishment that is all made Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq “Here we are today…helping to build another free and possible by Soldiers and Airmen like you.” sweet, and it is cool to look back and tell my grandkids, I re- democratic nation, opening the doors of hope, stability and Cannon said it is a vital role that National Guardsmen enlisted in one of Saddam’s palaces.” security in one of the most complex regions in the world,” play in protecting the American way of life and defending Cpl. Abraham Velasco, a combat medic with Task Force he said. “We’re answering our nation’s call just like our freedom around the globe. 1st Bn., 161st Inf. Regt., and native of Seattle, Wash., said it forefathers did 372 years ago.” Sgt. Travis Fletcher, a combat medic for Task Force 1st was an honor to re-enlist and serve his country. PAGE 10 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s December 24, 2008 “Knights” talk with provisional leaders; play soccer

St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y Sg t . 1s t Cl a ss Tigris River.” Ad a m V. Sh a w During the meeting, leaders 16th Sust. Bde. PAO discussed the security situation, on and off the contingency operating base and CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE water issues. Q-WEST, Iraq — 16th Pitts said that the water situation Sustainment Brigade here has improved over the past month leaders met with area and the brigade will continue to find shaykh, municipal ways to improve the water situation in leaders, Iraqi Police the local Iraqi communities. officials, Iraqi Army After the two-hour discussion, leaders and others participants watched an exhibition from the Ninawa soccer match played by the Alhood Province at a “souq” here Dec. 13. village soccer team. In Arabic, a souq is a marketplace Pitts and the brigade command or bazaar, but it is also used as a time sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. where U.S. military leaders can discuss James E. Spencer handed out new issues with local Iraqi leaders. soccer balls to the team in appreciation “These souqs are very valuable of the match. U.S Army Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Adam V. Shaw for relationship building,” said Col. “We look forward to the monthly Martin B. Pitts, commander, 16th souq,” said Pitts. “We will continue to Col. Martin B. Pitts, commander, 16th Sustainment Brigade, hands a player from the Sustainment Brigade. “It also gives us Alhood village soccer team a ball after an exhibition match at Q-West Dec. 13. The build our relationship and friendship match was part of the “souq,” where brigade leaders meet with leaders from the Ni- an opportunity to look at improving for the future.” nawa province to discuss a variety of issues such as water and security. the situation in Qayarrah and on the 536th Maintenance Company measures up to standard

St o r y b y analyzers, signal generators and flight instruments. Maintenance performed the maintenance of Iraqi rotary wing Sg t . 1s t Cl a ss Gr e g o r y Ho o s l i n e instruments. The calibration accuracy with uncalibrated equipment aircraft 536th Maint. Co, 165th CSSB, 10 of these measurements is vital for may cause catastrophic results. If One of the goals of the TMDE Sust. Bde., UPAR proper operations of equipment and properly calibrated equipment is not section is to maintain a TMDE CAMP TAJI, Iraq - Precision is the instruments on the battlefield. available, aircraft could be grounded readiness rate of 95 percent or greater. mission for eight The 536th Maint. Co. TMDE unnecessarily for maintenance, “The expedient return of customer’s Soldiers from the section provides calibration and repair resulting in less air support resources equipment is essential to our 536th Maintenance support for all types of test equipment available to help sustain combat customer’s readiness” said Staff Sgt, Company, 165th belonging to the Army, as well as, operations on the ground. The TMDE Lan Dickinson, the shop foreman for Combat Sustainment other branches of service. section has provided support to nearly the 536th Maintenance Company’s Support Battalion, “Supporting one of the largest 20 separate aviation units since their TMDE section and Birmingham, 10th Sustainment TMDE missions in Iraq is no small arrival. Ala. native. He said his Soldiers have Brigade here, who feat,” said Sgt. 1st Class Corey Barnes, The TMDE section also provides been able to maintain a turn-around provide calibration and repair support team chief for the TMDE section and support for the Coalition Air Force time of less than ten days for most for deployed units operating within the a Milwaukee, Wis. native. “These Transition Team at Camp Taji. This is equipment resulting in an average Multi-National Corps – Iraq. Soldiers work long hours to accomplish a unit that supports the development TMDE readiness rate of 98.6 percent Properly calibrated equipment and the mission and get the job done well.” of the Iraqi Air Force. The section for supported units. instruments measurements are made Since their arrival, the TMDE section has adapted to existing capabilities The 536th Maintenance Company, with a calibrated test, measurement, has completed 4,359 calibration and and allows on-site calibration and whose parent unit is the 524th Combat and diagnostic equipment and repair jobs, he said. repairs of equipment here; otherwise Service Support Battalion, 45th traceable to national, international, or TMDE calibration and repair it would have to be shipped to Al Sustainment Brigade, 8th Theater intrinsic standards of measurement. support plays a critical role for Udeid Air Base in Qatar for support. Sustainment Command, is based out Every facet of military equipment uses Coalition forces aviation units, who The section at Taji has greatly of Schofield Barracks, Hawaii and has some form of TMDE, from torque require the use of TMDE items improved the availability of precision been deployed in support of combat wrenches, multi-meters, to spectrum for nearly every aspect of aircraft test equipment, a fundamental for operations here since November 2007. A Christmas Tradition Coming to Al Asad b y Ma j . Ra n d e l Ro g e r s and many others to the brink of circle, counting every bird seen or heard and report those results to Nature Iraq Al Asad au Natural extinction. that day. The results are compiled and and the Ornithological Society of the By Christmas of 1900, numerous sent to the Audubon Society. While a Middle East. In America, changes in AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq - Americans species such as the Passenger pigeon, count of this nature is not precise, over attitudes towards wildlife occurred too once participated in a Carolina parakeet, and Snowy egret time is an excellent tool to identify late for the Passenger pigeon (extinct Christmas tradition were on the brink of extinction. That patterns in bird numbers. in 1914) and the Carolina parakeet known as the “side year ornithologist, Frank Chapman One of the challenges facing (1918), but others like the Snowy egret hunt”. After the changed the rules. Instead of killing ornithologists in Iraq is much of the have recovered, although some are still Christmas meal, birds, he organized with his friends country has not been surveyed for over threatened. Many birds are threatened family and friends to conduct 25 Christmas Bird Counts 30 years and there is not an accurate in the Middle East. Iraq has a great would divide into (CBC). On that day these enthusiasts picture of everything that lives here and opportunity to take action now and “sides” and take to counted nearly 18,500 individual birds what conditions they are in. protect its natural heritage for future the woods to shoot birds. The side with representing 90 species. A new tradition With this in mind, a CBC is to be generations, and groups like Nature Iraq the biggest bird count won the day. was born. conducted on Al Asad. The results will are working hard to do just this. They Throughout the 1800s and early By the 101st annual count in be little more than anecdotal evidence, will start their annual bird surveys in 1900s this tradition began to take a 2001, 52,471 people in 1,823 places but hopefully will provide a rough idea January and February, and wish them, severe toll on birds and other wildlife, participated in a CBC. These surveys are of which birds live on Al Asad in winter “Good Birding!” that drove some species to extinction organized to cover a 15-mile diameter and provide a basis for future surveys, December 24, 2008 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 11 PAGE 12 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s December 24, 2008 Sustainers’ help local man, share the road St o r y a n d p h o t o b y Sg t . Ju s t i n Cr u z , UPAR 1st Bn., 185th Armor, 16th Sust. Bde CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE Q-WEST, Iraq — Soldiers from 1st platoon, Echo Company, 1st Battalion, 185th Armor, 16th Sustainment Brigade, assisted a local man with his disabled vehicle while on mission. The lead scout vehicle discovered a suspicious red dump truck blocking the number two lane. While investigating the blocked vehicle, the dump truck driver was discovered sleeping on the side of the road. Staff Sgt. Christopher Vaughn, convoy commander, E Co., 1st Bn., 185th Armor said an interpreter was not available but luckily Capt. Robert D’ Andrea, commander of E Co., who studied Arabic in college, was able to talk to the driver. The driver, Hashem, a local Iraqi, said his truck battery was dead and another truck was towing him using the steel cable attached to the front of his vehicle. The truck’s air brakes locked up and the cable broke leaving him stranded on the road. The tow-vehicle left him there. Vaughn said his wrecker operators towed the dump truck to a nearby service station for repairs and gave Hashem food and water for the evening. Hashem is a father of four, two girls and two boys, and was on his way home at the time his Spc. Luis Valdivida (left) of Echo Company, 1st Battalion, 185th Armor, 16th Sustainment Brigade, assisted a local vehicle became disabled. Iraqi with wrecker recovery while Capt. Robert D’Andrea (right), commander, E Co., translated. The convoy was With the dump truck off the road, it could no able to assisted the driver by towing it to a nearby service station, allowing other convoys on the road to pass longer impede other convoys from passing through. without stopping traffic. Sustainers continue to train, mentor Iraqi Army Transporters

b y Ma j . Do n n a J. Jo h n s o n 68th Transportation Company, 165 CSSB, 10th Sust. Bde., UPAR CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The Iraqi Army’s General Transport Regiment under the guidance of the 68th Transportation Company, 165th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade, conducted their sixth transportation mission here Nov. 19. The mission, as part of their continuing training, requires the GTR to receive tracked vehicle hulls from the track storage yard on the Coalition side of Taji and transport them to the Taji National Maintenance Depot. The 10 T-72s tanks and 10 BMP-1 armored personnel carriers provide the TNMD the ability to train their track mechanics on repair procedures with the goal of bringing the vehicles to operational status and returning them to the Iraqi Army supply system for re-issue. Established six months ahead of schedule in September 2008, the GTR is the only theater level transportation unit in the Iraqi Army. With a mission to transport critical supplies and equipment to and from various depots, multiple ports of embarkation and twelve location commands throughout Iraq, the GTR plays a vital role in the country’s logistical system. Since the inception of the GTR, the 68th Trans. Co. from Mannheim, Germany, continues to train and advise the GTR on conducting convoys and transportation operations. Members of the 68th Trans. Co. are pleased with the progress the GTR has made over the past several months. “They have a way to go, but we’ve seen an improvement over the past couple of missions,” said Staff Sgt. George Barnhart of the 68th Trans. Co. The 68th Trans. Co. will continue to collaborate, mentor and train with the GTR for the remainder of their deployment in order to assist the Iraqi Army in achieving logistical self-reliance. December 24, 2008 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 13 Ne w s a r o u n d Ir a q Lowe said that getting all of the key leaders of all of Iraqi Army achieves the armed security forces together to see the facility’s potential was an important part of this effort. milestone at Bayji “We think it has been a resounding success both for the multinational security forces here, but more im- National Ammo Depot portantly, for the Iraqi security forces who have been able to network and see training at all the different fa- BAJI, Iraq - The Iraqi Army achieved a new milestone cilities,” Lowe said. in their path towards self-sufficiency on Dec. Maj. Gen. Andy Salmon, commander of MND-SE, 14 when Multi-National Security Transition sits on the Basrah Security Council with these Iraqi Command – Iraq’s Coalition Army Advi- leaders. He said that communication and interaction is sory Training Team - Logistics Mili- the key to solving problems for Iraq. tary Advisory Team contingent departed Bayji “It is the same issue in every single country in the National Ammunition Depot. world that is coming out of the darkness of violence,” The Iraqi Forces accepted full depot man- said Salmon. “If everyone is tightly knit, then we can all agement and all associated operational control have stability and security for a long time and do things at BNAD for the Iraqi Ministry of Defense at a together.” ceremony in late September 2008. Since that time, a small contingent of coalition personnel has been assist- ing them as they develop full capacity. The Iraqi Army was par- Forces command top enlisted quickly gained control of all aspects of the depot opera- ticularly fo- tion, including the receipt, inspection, quality control, cused on teach- sees improvement in the Iraqi segregation, storage, maintenance, and issue of ammu- ing techniques the nition. In addition, Iraqi Forces have inherited all secu- new trainers can use NCO firsthand rity and life support activities. to instruct other mem- Brig. Gen. Suheel, BNAD Commander, is also look- bers of their organizations. BAGHDAD, Iraq – There has been a 180-degree turn- ing ahead to future expansion of their capabilities, such “We are extremely pleased around in the Iraqi noncommissioned offi- as the employment of the Iraqi Logistics Management with how the training has progressed,” said Luke- cer since 2005, according to the top enlisted Program to enhance their efficiency and capability. This fahr. “The students quickly and easily transformed Soldier at U.S. Army Forces Command in At- program will provide a new method for asset visibility to their new teaching role, and the benefits to law lanta. to Brig. Gen. Ali, director of the Ammunition Command enforcement are undeniable.” Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis M. Carey, command ser- at forward operating base Honor, and update the com- The Iraqi master instructors will continue to teach geant major, FORSCOM, spent two days touring Iraq, bined logistic operation center. courses here in Iraq. They will continue to receive and on a trip to Camp Taji’s Iraqi NCO academy Dec. Between August and December 2008, both U.S. follow-on instruction and oversight from trained 16, he said he has seen vast improvement in just three Army Corps of Engineers Contracting Officer Repre- FBI instructors. Follow-on training is scheduled for years. sentatives and MNSTC-I LMAT leaders were impressed the spring of 2009 and will be conducted both in “The Iraqi Army has made great strides in empower- with IA progress and performance. The IA forces learned Iraq and the United States. ing the Iraqi NCO,” Carey said. all facets of depot operations via on-the job training in Carey, a Phoenixville, Penn. native, was the com- a very short time. “This is another demonstration of the ISF demonstrates integrated mand sergeant major for the XVIII Airborne Corps dur- rapidly improving ability of the Iraqi Army to conduct ing its tour as Multi-National Corps – Iraq in 2005. their own logistics operations,” said Col. Dan Leather- training facility’s capabilities He, along with the current XVIII Abn. Corps and man, director of CAATT logistics. MNC-I command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. BASRAH, Iraq – An Iraqi forces capabilities demonstra- Joseph R. Allen, spent the better part of the day visiting FBI-trained Iraqi Law tion Dec. 19 showed how integrated training with Iraqi instructors at the NCO Academy – getting a can be an effective, efficient way to meet the feel for how the academy works and what lies on the ho- Enforcement Officers now train continuous training needs for a secure Iraq. rizon for the NCOs. Iraqi security force commanders led by The duo visited firing ranges and urban terrain train- their own Maj. Gen. Muhammad Juwd Hwaidi and Co- ing sites before linking up with a handful of Iraqi in- alition leaders witnessed the day’s events at the Basrah structors at the academy. BAGHDAD, Iraq – The Federal Bureau of Investiga- Training College in Shaibah, Iraq. “Do you find your Soldiers learn better in the class- tion recently trained 18 law enforcement The divisional training facility featured displays by room, or outside hands on?” Carey asked the group. officers now charged with training their the Iraqi Police Service, Department of Boarder En- The reply from one NCO was that “some learn better own. forcement, Iraqi Army and emergency medical servic- and faster than others. We prefer to do both. We train The FBI training encompassed crime es. them in the classroom before going out into the field.” scene processing, evidence collection techniques, “The process has begun for making Shaibah an ex- “The Americans have been a great help to us,” said kidnapping investigations, hostage survival tech- cellent logistics base for all of the Iraqi Security Forces,” Iraqi Warrant Officer Adel, the commandant of the niques, and tactical training related to arrest and said Lt. Col. David Sosa, Iraqi Security Force planning academy. “If we need help, they help us. When we don’t, search operations. Upon completion of the initial liaison officer. they let us do the things we are here to do.” three-week course, these officers are now qualified He said that many new facilities were built in the last An Iraqi warrant officer is the equivalent of a U.S. to train other Iraqi law enforcement personnel in few months to provide an environment where all Iraqi Army sergeant major. these disciplines. security forces can train and meet their future logistics “Our Soldiers here in Iraq who are teaching the Iraqi “This course is an excellent example of how we are needs. Army are doing a fabulous job,” Carey said. “It’s great equipping our Iraqi counterparts with vital knowl- “It will help develop all Iraq security forces and en- to come out here and see this firsthand. I’d do it once a edge and techniques to better help them do their sure Iraq will remain safe and secure,” Sosa said. month if I could.” jobs,” said Col. Benjamin Lukefahr, senior advisor, Although Coalition leaders said the college is off to “We are very proud of what we do in the Army, and National Information and Investigations Agency. a good start, the long-term success of this program de- we know we are getting better,” Adel said. “Trips like “The attendees of the FBI training are participating pends on the Iraqi government continuing to fund the these, when a command sergeant major like Command in an ongoing program to become master instruc- program. Sgt. Maj. Carey comes to visit, it lets us know that what tors who will continue to build ministerial capacity “We are hoping that more funding is put into train- we are doing is important. It shows that he cares about and self-reliance within the law enforcement com- ing and that the security force leaders here in Iraq will our training.” munity.” realize that continuation training is a key part to main- Carey and Allen finished their trip to Camp Taji with The FBI has conducted law enforcement training taining a sustainable security system,” said Maj. Steven a briefing from the Army military transition team troops throughout the country of Iraq since 2004. Courses Lowe, staff officer with Multi-National Division-South before having lunch with both Iraqi and U.S. instructors normally run for two to three weeks, but this course East headquarters in Basrah. from the academy. PAGE 14 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s December 24, 2008

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

Su s t a i n e r Re e l Ti m e Th e a t e r Marley and Me Yes Man Owen Wilson and Jen- Jim Carrey stars as Carl Allen, a guy whose nifer Aniston go to the Movie Times life is going nowhere— dogs with Marley & Me, the operative word a tale of a couple forced being “no”—until he to deal with a trouble- Wednesday, December 24 signs up for a self-help some Labrador retriev- 5 p.m. Role Models program based on one er. The Devil Wears 8 p.m. Changeling simple covenant: say Prada’s David Frankel yes to everything...and directs the adaptation Thursday, December 25 anything. Unleashing of John Grogan’s best- 2 p.m. Changeling the power of “YES” seller by screenwriters 5 p.m. JBB WIDE EVENT begins to transform Carl’s life in amazing Scott Frank and Don VARIETY SHOW and unexpected ways, Roos. Alan Arkin and Friday, December 26 getting him promoted Eric Dane co-star in the 2 p.m. Madagascar 2 at work and opening Fox 2000 production. the door to a new 5 p.m. Marley and Me romance. But his willingness to embrace every 8:30 p.m. Yes Man opportunity might just become too much of a Saturday, December 27 good thing. Soul Men 2 p.m. Quantum Of Solace n 1965, Marcus Hooks (John 8:30 p.m. A Christmas Carol Changeling Legend), Floyd Henderson Sunday, December 28 (Bernie Mac), and Louis Hinds 2 p.m. Yes Man In 1928 Los Angeles, (Samuel L. Jackson) were single mother Christine just three kids singing doo- 5 p.m. Soul Men wop harmonies around a fire Collins (Angelina Jolie) barrel when legendary record 8 p.m. Marley and Me arrives home to find producer Willie Mitchell Monday, December 29 her son, Walter, gone. caught an earful of their Five months later, her infectious harmonizing. Two 5 p.m. Marley and Me prayers are answered short years later, Marcus 8 p.m. Soul Men and Walter is found Hooks and the Real Deal had Tuesday, December 30 in Illinois. But, to signed to Hi Records, and Christine’s horror, quickly became one of the 5 p.m. Quantum Of Solace the boy who steps off most popular soul acts in 8 p.m. Madagascar 2 the train is not her America. But success can’t son. The authorities last forever, and it wasn’t long before Hooks decided vehemently disagree to strike out on his own. Though Floyd and Lewis would w i t h C h r i s t i n e ’ s do their best to keep the Real Deal going, scoring one assessment, and her breakout hit with “Walk in the Park,” clashing egos and only ally is a clergyman “creative differences” would eventually break the duo (Schedule is subject to change) (John Malkovich), who sees the case as his chance apart... to expose the corruptness of L.A.’s police and government. December 24, 2008 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 15 Sudoku The objective is to fill Level: Very Hard the 9×9 grid so that 6 3 2 each column, each row, and each of the nine 9 4 3×3 boxes contains the digits from 1 to 9 only 1 7 one time each. 3 2 Last weeks answers 7 9 6 8 6 9 3 1 7 5 2 4 4 5 3 8 6 2 1 7 9 1 2 7 4 5 9 3 8 6 5 8 9 8 5 2 4 1 7 6 3 3 4 6 9 7 5 2 1 8 5 9 2 7 1 6 3 8 9 4 5 6 9 4 7 2 3 8 5 1 6 4 7 1 8 5 9 6 4 3 2 5 3 2 1 8 4 6 9 7 1 8 3

PVT. MURPHY’S LAW

Upcoming sports on AFN Wednesday 12/24/08 Washington State @ LSU, Live 10 p.m. AFN/prime atlantic NHL on Versus: @ New Jersey Devils, Live WWE Smackdown, Tape Delayed 10 p.m. AFN/xtra 3 a.m. AFN/xtra 2008 San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl: Boise Sunday 12/28/08 State ve TCU (Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, CA), Live 4 UAB @ Louisville, Live 12 a.m. AFN/xtra a.m. AFN/xsports West Virginia @ Ohio State, Live 12 a.m. AFN/prime 2Pac-10 Men’s Basketball: Kansas @ Arizona, Live 6:30 atlantic a.m. AFN/xtra 2008 Champs Sports Bowl: Wisconsin vs Florida State Missouri vs Illinois (Scottrade Center, St. Louis, MO), Tape (Florida Citrus Bowl, Orlando, FL), Live 12:30 a.m. AFN/ Delayed 11 a.m. AFN/sports sports Texas @ Wisconsin, Tape Delayed 1 p.m. AFN/sports Northwestern State @ Arkansas, Live 2 a.m. AFN/prime NFL RePLAY - Game 2: Teams TBD * 90-Minute Fast- atlantic Paced Game of the Week, Tape Delayed 6:30 p.m. AFN/ Iona @ South Florida, Live 3 a.m. AFN/xtra sports Western Illinois @ Iowa, Live 4 a.m. AFN/prime atlantic 2008 San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl: Boise 2008 Emerald Bowl: Miami (FL) vs California (AT&T Park, State ve TCU (Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, CA), Tape San Francisco, CA), Live 4 a.m. AFN/sports Delayed 9 p.m. AFM/sports UFC 92 Countdown, Tape Delayed 5 a.m. AFN/xtra UFC 92: The Ultimate 2008 (MGM Grand Garden Arena, Thursday 12/25/08 Las Vegas, NV), Live 6 a.m. AFN/xtra 2008 Sheraton Hawaii Bowl: Hawaii vs Notre Dame (Aloha Boston Bruins @ Carolina Hurricanes, Tape Delayed 9 a.m. Stadium, Honolulu, HI), Live 4 a.m. AFN/sports AFN/xtra NFL RePLAY - Game 3: Teams TBD * 90-Minute Fast- @ Colorado Avalanche, Tape Delayed Paced Game of the Week, Live 4 a.m. AFN/xtra 2:30 p.m. AFN/xtra The Ultimate Fighter 8 Finale, Live 7 a.m. AFN/xtra NFL Week 17: Teams TBD, Live 9 p.m. AFN/prime atlantic NFL RePLAY - Game 3: Teams TBD * 90-Minute Fast- NFL Week 17: Teams TBD, Live 9 p.m. AFN/sports Paced Game of the Week, Tape Delayed 11 a.m. AFN/sports NFL Week 17: Teams TBD, Live 9 p.m. AFN/xtra NFL RePLAY - Game 4: Teams TBD * 90-Minute Fast- Paced Game of the Week, Tape Delayed 12:30 a.m. AFN/ Monday 12/29/08 sports NFL Week 17: Teams TBD, Live 12 a.m. AFN/prime atlantic NBA Christmas Special: New Orleans Hornets @ Orlando NFL Week 17: Teams TBD, Live 12 a.m. AFN/sports Magic, Live 8 p.m. AFN/sports NFL Week 17: Teams TBD, Live 12 a.m. AFN/xtra NBA Christmas Special: San Antonio Spurs @ Phoenix ACC Sunday Night Hoops: Virginia @ Georgia Tech (JIP), Suns, Live 10:30 p.m. AFN/sports Live 3 a.m. AFN/prime atlantic ACC Sunday Night Hoops: Rutgers @ North Carolina, Live Friday 12/26/08 3:45 a.m. AFN/prime atlantic Iraq according to Opet NBA Christmas Special: Boston Celtics @ Los Angeles Chicago Blackhawks @ Minnesota Wild, Tape Delayed 8 Lakers, Live 1 a.m. AFN/sports a.m. AFN/xtra NBA on TNT: @ Cleveland Cavaliers, UFC 92: The Ultimate 2008 (MGM Grand Garden Arena, Live 4 a.m. AFN/sports Las Vegas, NV), Tape Delayed 10 a.m. AFN/xtra NBA on TNT: @ Portland Trail Blazers, 2008 Independence Bowl: Northern Illinois vs Louisiana Live 6:30 a.m. AFN/sports Tech (Independence Stadium, Shreveport, LA) * ESPN NBA Christmas Special: San Antonio Spurs @ Phoenix 2-hour Countdown, Live 10:45 a.m. AFN/sports Suns, Tape Delayed 2:30 p.m. AFN/sports NBC Sunday Night Football - Week 17: Teams TBD, Tape NBA Christmas Special: Boston Celtics @ Los Angeles Delayed 2 p.m. AFN/sports Lakers, Tape Delayed 5 p.m. AFN/sports UFC 92: The Ultimate 2008 (MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, NV), Tape Delayed 6 p.m. AFN/xtra Saturday 12/27/08 NBC Sunday Night Football - Week 17: Teams TBD, Tape NBA Friday: @ Miami Heat, Live 1 a.m. Delayed 8 p.m. AFN/sports AFN/sports 2008 Papajohns.com Bowl: North Carolina State vs Rutgers 2008 Motor City Bowl: Florida Atlantic vs Central Michigan (Legion Field, Birmingham, AL), Live 11 p.m. AFN/sports (Ford Field, Detroit, MI), Live 4 a.m. AFN/sports @ New Orleans Hornets, Live 4 a.m. AFN/ Tuesday 12/30/08 xtra NHL on Versus: New York Islanders @ , Phoenix Coyotes @ Los Angeles Kings, Live 6:30 a.m. Live 3 a.m. AFN/xtra AFN/prime pacific 2008 Valero Alamo Bowl: Missouri vs Northwestern NBA on NBATV: Boston Celtics @ Golden State Warriors, (Alamodome, San Antonio, TX), Live 4 AFN/sports Live 6:30 a.m. AFN/xtra NBA on NBATV: Toronto Raptors @ Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers @ Denver Nuggets, Tape Delayed 11 a.m. Live 6:30 a.m. AFN/sports AFN/sports 2008 Papajohns.com Bowl: North Carolina State vs Rutgers 2008 Motor City Bowl: Florida Atlantic vs Central Michigan (Legion Field, Birmingham, AL), Tape Delyed 2 p.m.. AFN/ (Ford Field, Detroit, MI), Tape Delayed 2:30 p.m. AFN/ sports sports Cincinnati @ Memphis Tape Delayed 6 p.m. AFN/Sports Miami (FL) @ St. John’s, Live 8 p.m. AFN/prime atlantic PAGE 16 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s December 24, 2008 Sustaining the Line

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour Command Sgt. Maj. Willie C. Tennant Sr. senior noncommissioned officer for the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), judges an oversized Christmas card during a display making com- petition at Joint Base Balad Dec. 16. The oversized cards, created by Air Force and Army units, will have winners announced Dec. 25.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour A holiday display illuminates Sapper Circle at Joint Base Balad Dec. 16. The dis- play was lit after a small ceremony followed by a Christmas display judging.

U.S. Army photo by Capt. Angela Velasco Soldiers from the 18th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, took home the Diamondback Softball Championship here, Dec. 7. The Hammers pounded the team from the 632nd Maintenance Company, 15-1, to take home the base crown. “We just went out to have fun and get our minds off the daily routine,” said Sgt. 1st Class Kenneth Ramer, personnel non-commissioned officer in charge and team captain of the Hammers. The Unionville, Ill., na- tive and his team won over ten other units in the Diamondback Softball League. The 18th CSSB is stationed at Grafenwoehr, Germany and deployed here for 15 months. U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. G. Elizabeth Brown Spc. Heather Smiechowski, a native of South Bend, Ind., sorts through hundreds of Christmas cards sent from Indianapolis, Ind., Roncalli High School students. Every Soldier in the 1538th Transportation Company received Christmas cards.