Freedom Watch January 2, 2005

Page 2 Freedom Watch January 2, 2005

Holiday cheer

The Praise Choir sings in front of Base Operations during the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Bagram Air Base Dec. 19. Since many service members and civilians deployed to Afghanistan will be unable to be with family for the holi- days, the spirit of Christmas was brought to them with a live tree donated by stu- Spc. Cheryl Ransford dents in the United States.

Contents

Spc. Joseph Crum, Long Range Surveillance Detachment sniper takes a shot at a target during sniper training Dec. 18. Constant training helps the two-man sniper teams remain accurate and ready for missions.

See cover story Page 10 Sgt. Stephanie L. Carl

Page 3: SMA “Hope and Freedom Tour” boosts morale of deployed service members during holiday tour

Page 4: Dismount patrol promotes Coalition, Afghan relationship

Page 5: Enduring Voices: Coalition members share feel- ings from deployment Page 6: CTF Bronco mechanics help troops maintain X mobility Page 7: Ghazni TV address informs, educates Afghans in central Afghanistan

W Pages 8/9: Diverse units, diverse mission come together in CTF Coyote

Page 11: Combat Camera captures Coalition in action around Afghanistan

Page 12: Marines steadfast in mission throughout Afghanistan, gain renewed focus

Page 13: Safeguarding the Coalition: Supplements contain hidden risks Page 14: Families maintain contact through video reading X sessions

Page 15: Letter to the editor, Integrity essay winner January 2, 2005 Freedom Watch Page 3 Hope and Freedom

Photos by Staff Sgt. Monica R. Garreau

Entertainment celebrities joined Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth O. Preston as he visited service members deployed to Kandahar Airfield Dec. 22 on the United Service Organizations’ Hope and Freedom Tour. The tour, which began in 2002, is dedicated to rais- ing the morale of deployed service members during the holiday season. “You try to get out and touch as many Soldiers as you can throughout the year,” said Preston. “It’s important this time of year with them away from their families and their loved ones.” The USO has been sponsoring entertainment for service members for 64 years. During this year’s tour, the group visited troops in Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait. “There’s no more fulfilling way to spend our holiday Clockwise from top left: Actress Karri Turner talks to the than to come overseas and spend time with the men troops at Kandahar Airfield Dec. 22 during the USO’s Hope and Freedom Tour. and women of the armed services,” said country music singer Mark Wills. Audience members react to a joke made by comedian Al Franken during his performance at Kandahar Airfield.

Sgt. 1st Class Keith Melick (right) and 2nd Lt. Linda Hird, both of 325th CSH, dance during a performance by country singer Mark Wills.

Country singer Darryl Worley performs a song for Spc. Jennifer Schettino, 1st Plt., 209th MP Co. Schettino’s husband, Sgt. Mike Schettino, met Worley during the group’s stop in Iraq and asked him to pass a message to his wife serving in Afghanistan. Page 4 Freedom Watch January 2, 2005 Bobcats patrol, interact with Afghans Story and photos by Sgt. Stephanie L. Carl 17th Public Affairs Detachment

TARIN KOWT, Afghanistan –– A young Afghan boy trots along, trying to stay in stride with the camouflage-clad Soldier walking down the muddy street. The Soldier is a member of 2nd Platoon, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, on a dismounted patrol through Tarin Kowt in southern Afghanistan’s Oruzgan province. “Through these patrols I’ve learned that the people here really appreciate the American presence,” said Sgt. Joseph Laflair, a 2nd Plt., Co. B, 2nd Bn., 5th Inf. Rgt., team leader. This is Laflair’s third deployment – he has spent time in Kosovo, Iraq, and now, Afghanistan – and he recognizes how vital his experience is to his team. “Most of my guys are new Soldiers,” he said. “My biggest fear is that something will discuss business,” said 1st Lt. Eric Hong, happen to them when we are out on a mis- 2nd Platoon platoon leader. sion.” During this particular dismounted patrol, But the team has worked closely together, 1st Lt. John Bowman, Co. B fire support and also knows the area and the people of officer, met with the Tarin Kowt mayor to Tarin Kowt. discuss some pending projects in Tarin “The people of Tarin Kowt know we’re Kowt. After some discussion, he invited the not here to harm them. There’s a big differ- mayor to FOB Ripley the following day, ence now from when we first arrived here,” where they would review specifics. said Spc. Jorge Herrera, a 2nd Plt., Co. B, While Bowman talked business inside, the 2nd Bn., 5th Inf. Rgt., grenadier. Soldiers pulled security outside and interact- The 2nd Bn., 5th Inf. Rgt., “Bobcats” ed with the local population. arrived at Tarin Kowt in June. Since then, “I like being around the people,” said they have run mounted and dismounted Laflair. “I’m trying to learn a little bit of the patrols regularly from Forward Operating language from them. Most of the Afghans Base Ripley. are trying to learn English from us, so I fig- “We usually do dismounted patrols when ure I should try to learn their language, we need to meet with the local leaders to too.” Other Soldiers in the platoon also enjoy the interaction they get from the dismounted patrols. “I’m learning a lot about their culture, Above: Pfc. Patrick Stellick, 2nd Plt., their language and Co. B, 2nd Bn., 5th Inf. Rgt., takes a their lifestyle,” said knee during a halt on a patrol Herrera. “It also through Tarin Kowt. The Bobcats of reminds me of 2nd Bn., 5th Inf. Rgt., run regular home. I have a little patrols in the area to meet with local girl, so interacting leaders and provide security and sta- with all these kids bility. reminds me of my little girl. And I Top: Stellick brings up the rear of a know that I’m here patrol through Tarin Kowt while a Soldiers from 2nd Plt., Co. B, 2nd Bn., 5th Inf. Rgt., inter- trying to make a bet- young Afghan boy marches along act with local children in Tarin Kowt during a dismounted ter home for them to with him during one of the platoon’s patrol. live.” movements through the area. January 2, 2005 Freedom Watch Page 5 Enduring Voices What is the most important idea/feeling you will take away from this deployment?

1st Lt. Cedric Taylor HHC, 33rd ASG Air Force Capt. “The sense that I have par- James Hammond ticipated in making history Task Force Longhorn in a country while giving “I’ll feel like I contributed to people the same freedoms the development of and liberties I’m afforded in Afghanistan.” the United States.”

Navy Petty Officer Spc. Radley Manansala 1st Class 72nd Sig. Bn. Stephanie Edwards “The appreciation for the CJTF-76, CJ2 freedoms and liberties we “Knowing I have played a have as Americans.” part in helping the Afghan people and the Soldiers in the field.”

Spc. Marcus Johnson Co. C, 2nd Bn., 5th Inf. Rgt. Capt. Jennifer Krueger “The support of my family Task Force Longhorn and friends back home is “The importance of team- just as important as the work and how much you cohesion within our team.” can accomplish with it.”

Spc. Kevin Craig Sgt. Dennis Reddish Long Range Surveillance Co. C, 2nd Bn., 5th Inf. Rgt. Detachment “The close bond and feel- “I respect where I come ing of brotherhood I feel from more. I am prouder of with the other Soldiers.” being an American.” Page 6 Freedom Watch January 2, 2005 Bronco mechanics keep vehicles ready to roll Story and photo by a downed vehicle is to do little Sgt. Stephanie L. Carl things like tighten bolts regu- 17th Public Affairs Detachment larly,” said Coco. A little minor up keep goes a KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, long way in lightening equip- Afghanistan –– The broad, ment stress and keeping vehi- relentless terrain of cles mission ready. Afghanistan presents a chal- Limiting the stress on the lenge to the Soldiers serving vehicles in turn limits the in Operating Enduring stress put on those who main- Freedom. tain them. But when the In order to accomplish their mechanics need someone to mission, they rely heavily go to, all they have to do is upon wheeled vehicles. But look to the motor sergeant. the terrain is unforgiving to Master Sgt. Ron these machines, demanding Elsenheimer, CTF Bronco that maintenance specialists motor sergeant, considers it ensure the equipment is his responsibility to ensure always ready. Sgt. Lee Coco, CTF Bronco mechanic, repairs the door of they are taken care of. “In the rear, we don’t use an up-armored HMMWV at Kandahar Airfield Dec. 3. Coco “It’s important that we let trucks as much,” said Sgt. Lee is responsible for the maintenance of all vehicles at them know individually that Coco, a Headquarters and Kandahar, as well as any vehicles from the firebases we care about them,” he said Headquarters Company, throughout Regional Command South. of his Soldiers. Combined Task Force Bronco, One way Elsenheimer does mechanic at Kandahar Airfield lenge to mechanics. him, and also requires a lot of this is by ensuring they get the in southern Afghanistan. “The up-armored vehicles coordination. personal items they need while “Here, we sometimes work are a lot harder to work on,” “It’s important that we make they are at firebases. He also from sun up to sun down, said Coco. “But the extra sure the parts keep flowing,” rotates the Soldiers to differ- keeping the trucks up and work I have to do is worth it, said Staff Sgt. Matthew Benito, ent locations to build their moving.” because that extra protection CTF Bronco consolidated morale. Most of the damage to the allows our Soldiers to walk motorpool shop foreman. “My Soldiers don’t just do vehicles is caused by the away from accidents with Benito tracks more than 20 their job,” he said. “Every rough terrain. But other fac- minor or no injuries.” CTF Bronco mechanics posi- convoy the infantry goes on, tors, such as damage from Coco is responsible for the tioned throughout Regional one of my mechanics is with detonated improvised explo- maintenance of any vehicle Command South, as well as them. And every time I send sive devices and land mines, brought to the CTF Bronco the vehicles they maintain. one of them out, I make sure affect the performance of consolidated motorpool, One way the Soldiers keep I shake their hand and spend vehicles like the up-armored including those brought in the vehicles operational is by some time with them before high mobility multipurpose from units operating outside ensuring regular maintenance they go. This is my family wheeled vehicles. These fac- the airfield. This is a process is conducted. here, and I’d work with any tors pose a whole new chal- that puts a lot of pressure on “The easiest way to prevent one of them, anywhere.” AAFeS SeRvICeS HouRS oF opeRATIoN Bagram Air Base Kandahar Airfield TF Phoenix Kabul Compound PX Massage PX Alterations PX 0230-1630 0400-1800 0500-1700 0500-1700 0430-1630 PX Shoppette Alterations Burger King Embroidery Shop Barber Shop 0430-1630 0230-1630 0430-1430 0430-1730 0500-1700 0330-1530 Barber Shop Burger King Embroidery Shop Coffee Shop Gift Shops Alterations 0330-1530 0430-1730 0430-1430 24hrs 0500-1700 0330-1630 Coffee Shop Food Court Gift Shops Main Barber Shop Sports Apparel Coffee Shop 24 hours 0600-1630 0430-1430 0500-1700 0500-1700 24 hours Barber Shop Sports Apparel Lagoon Barber Shop Black Ops Store 0430-1530 0430-1430 0300-1700 0500-1700 Day Spa Coffee Shop Day Spa Leather Shop * All times in 0400-1600 24 hours 0500-1700 0500-1700 Zulu/GMT January 2, 2005 Freedom Watch Page 7 TV address expands Coalition reach Story and photo by Sgt. Jennifer S. Emmons 17th Public Affairs Detachment GHAZNI CITY, Afghanistan –– Two Soldiers entered the Ghazni Radio and Television Studio to produce their weekly address to the people of the community as part of an effort to reach out and inform area Afghans. “Once a week we come to the station and talk to the people via television and radio,” said Lt. Col. Gerald Timoney, Ghazni PRT commander. “It’s a chance for us to let the community know what the Coalition is doing in the area.” The address is taped and broadcast throughout the week. “We talk about a lot of different things Coalition members and Afghan officials prepare for their weekly broadcast on during the show,” said Lt. Col. Blake the Ghazni television station. The broadcast is a way to keep citizens informed Ortner, 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry of Coalition reconstruction and security efforts. Regiment, commander. “We talk about the messages we have for the community.” what Coalition forces in the area are throughout Afghanistan,” he said. “You Reconstruction and security are two of doing. have to connect with the people. It’s all the major components of the weekly mes- The more people are informed of the about getting to know them and them sage. Coalition’s intentions and plans for the getting to know us. For them to know “We are always asking for the communi- area, the better, he said. that we are here for them. We are here to ty’s help,” said Ortner. “We ask them to “If the people are informed that we are help.” turn in any weapons they have and report working to bring peace to the province, it The weekly television address is just one any suspicious people to the police.” makes them more confident in and sup- part of the toolbox, he said. Combined A request the people have been very portive of the Coalition. But more impor- with the reconstruction projects and secu- responsive to. tantly, in their own government,” said rity operations in the area, it helps the “The response to the weapons turn-in Timoney. Afghans understand that the Coalition program has been overwhelming,” he said. This is a great way to connect with the wants to help Afghanistan become an “We’ve had so many weapons and muni- local community, said Ortner. independent and strong nation. tions turned in that we had to set up a “People are always coming up to me “Being here and seeing the growth turn-in point off the base to accommo- telling me they’ve seen me on TV,” he said. among the community is great for my date all of it.” Making that contact, even if it’s through Soldiers,” said Ortner. “The Afghans are The weekly address does more than ask television, is a step in the right direction, great people, hard-working and friendly. for help from the local population, said said Timoney. It’s truly an honor to be part of this mis- Timoney. It also lets the community know “Other PRTs are doing similar work sion.”

While the sun sets over Forward Operating Base Ripley in southern Afghanistan, Coalition soldiers enjoy music performed by the country band Little Big Town. Soldiers at FOB Ripley conduct missions throughout Oruzgan province to provide security and stability to the Afghan people.

Photo by Spc. Randy Flores Co. B, 2nd Bn., 5th Inf. Rgt. If you have high quality photos of service members supporting the Coalition mission or enjoying well-deserved off-duty time, please e-mail them to [email protected]. Please include full identification and caption information, including who is in the photo and what action is taking place. Page 8 Freedom Watch January 2, 2005 Spotlight on Combined Task Force Coyote Engineer unit brings diversity to OEF mission Story by Sgt. Frank Magni 17th Public Affairs Detachment BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan –– From mine clearing to airfield upgrades, Combined Task Force Coyote’s missions are as diverse as its members. Comprised of service members from across the Coalition, Coyote is a task force that uses the strengths of each group to effectively serve Operation Enduring Freedom, said Col. Nancy Wetherill, CTF Coyote commander. “So far in the rotation, our success has come from our ability to be flexible to the command’s need,” said Wetherill, who is also the 109th Engineer Group (Combat), South Dakota National Guard, commander. “We have figured out the best ways to accomplish the mission using our diversi- Spc. Cheryl Ransford ty to our advantage.” Sgt. 1st Class Delano Kroeplin Jr. (left) and his brother, Sgt. James Kroeplin Serving as Combined Joint Task Force- Sr., 367th Eng. Bn., build a winter shelter for a generator at Shindand Airfield. 76’s primary engineer asset, Coyote man- emphasis on improving the quality of life Eng. Group played a large role in the ages a variety of projects undertaken by and force protection for Coalition mem- expansion of Bagram Air Base’s runways the by the many who make up the com- bers. to accommodate fixed-wing aircraft and mand. “Our main mission is to support the reconstruction of Steel Beach to better With engineer assets from the armed base,” said Republic of Korea Army serve CJTF-76’s rotary-wing assets. forces of Korea, Poland, Slovakia and Command Sgt. Maj. Bae Haeng Suk, ROK “Our engineers pour on average 400 other nation, CTF Coyote places an 100th Engineer Group command sergeant cubic meters of concrete per day,” said major. “We’re help- Bae. This is enough concrete to pour ing to provide better approximately 38 double-width driveways living conditions and or 1.3 miles of sidewalk a day. better capabilities for CTF Coyote also heads up some of the the Coalition.” largest humanitarian assistance projects The ROK 100th within Afghanistan.

Spc. Cheryl Ransford Above: Staff Sgt. Gene Lachney, 528th Eng. Bn. horizontal construction platoon squad leader, smooths a drainage ditch with a vibratory roller at FOB Salerno.

Left: Spc. Caleb Klebig, 367th Eng. Bn., probes for mines during mine-clearing efforts on Bagram Air Base. Mine Spc. Chris Stump clearance is a large part of CTF Coyote’s mission. January 2, 2005 Freedom Watch Page 9

“One of our major focuses has been the Like many other organizations in CTF Kandahar to Tarin Kowt road project,” Coyote, U.S. Soldiers work side-by-side said Wetherill. with other Coalition members in the Construction of the 75-mile stretch of mine action center – another experience road began in July and is projected to last that has been very positive for Fletcher. until early 2006. The project is headed up “They bring a different perspective to by the 528th Engineer Battalion (Combat) the mission,” he said. “It is definitely one (Heavy) from the Louisiana National of the strengths of CTF Coyote, bring- Guard, and is augmented by Soldiers ing (all the) different experiences togeth- from Company B, 204th Engineer er to get the job done.” Battalion (Combat) (Heavy), New York Coalition members like Polish Army National Guard, as well as other Coyote Chief Warrant Officer Robert assets. Borowczyk, 1st Special Regiment super- Another way Coyote uses its assets to visor, also feels the combined effort help improve the country of Afghanistan helps in everything the task force does. is through its efforts in clearing mines. “We are using one of our major expert- Sgt. 1st Class David Fletcher, 367th ise to help the mission here,” said Engineer Battalion – a Reserve unit head- Borowczyk, whose unit has extensive quartered in Brainerd, Minn. – works in experience in land mines. Sgt. Frank Magni CTF Coyote’s mine action center. “(The mission) not only improves our Sgt. Wilson Harding, Co. B, 204th Tracking the efforts of his battalion, as skills as Soldiers but prepares us to work Eng. Bn., uses an excavator to collect well as other civilian contractors and in other coalitions.” dirt for use in building the sub-base Coalition partners, the mine action center While mine clearance and road con- for the Kandahar to Tarin Kowt road. provides up-to-date intelligence on explo- struction are two of the main efforts for sive hazards throughout Afghanistan. Coyote, the task force is also highly Freedom doing a variety of tasks, the In his position, Fletcher said he has seen involved with airfield expansion and focus for Coyote remains very clear. CTF Coyote contribute a great deal to improvement, along with building “The members of (Combined Task Afghanistan. administrative buildings and living quar- Force) Coyote are very proud of the job “I’m seeing the changes as they hap- ters. Coyote is also planning and design- they are doing in Operation Enduring pen,” said Fletcher. “Seeing the transfor- ing projects that will take place years Freedom,” said Wetherill. “They are mation is amazing. We are giving land from now. playing a very important role in support- back to the people they couldn’t use Found in just about every location ing the war fighter and contributing to before.” throughout Operation Enduring the future Afghanistan.”

Spc. Cheryl Ransford Korean engineers from the Republic of Korea’s 100th Engineer Group work on expansion of the runway at Bagram Air Base. Page 10 Freedom Watch January 2, 2005

On Target!

One shot, one kill their desert uniform and drips very important,” he said. “It Snipers off the scopes on their can be the difference between weapons. a sniper hitting his target or While many units would can- missing it.” train for cel a range due to inclement In order to learn exactly how weather, the intermittent driz- different conditions affect zle in near-freezing tempera- their shots, the sniper team, accuracy tures was just what the 25th which was formed in early Infantry Division (Light) Long November to support Story and photos by Range Surveillance Combined Joint Task Force- Sgt. Stephanie L. Carl Detachment was looking for 76, has been training nearly 17th Public Affairs Detachment to train its sniper teams. every day, recording weapon Temperature, humidity and data, so when the call comes EAST RIVER RANGE, elevation all affect the trajecto- for a team to go on a mission, PARWAN PROVINCE, ry of a round, said Staff Sgt. they are ready. The informa- Afghanistan –– Soldiers lay in Brett A. Henry, a LRSD sniper tion they collect is vital for Spc. Dominic Hoyt, LRSD the prone position, motionless, team leader. determining what settings the spotter, uses his spotter’s while a steady rain soaks into “Knowing those effects is shooters need to use on their scope to see the impact of rifle scopes when they are on his sniper’s bullet. missions. “We needed to get all our who actually determine the shooters zeroed on their adjustments that need to be equipment and collect their made, setting their sniper up data,” said Henry. for a more accurate shot. They In order to zero and collect track the settings on the scope data, the sniper and spotter in specific conditions, record- teams fired at 200- and 400- ing all the information in the meter targets. DOP book so they can refer- “Firing at the different tar- ence it on missions. The gets allows us to gather the sniper and spotter teams are correct information we need always the same. The two indi- to make the precision shot viduals train together, develop- when it’s necessary,” said Spc. ing a professional and person- Kevin J. Corter, a LRSD al relationship that allows sniper. them to accomplish their mis- After each shot was fired, a sion when they receive the spotter checked the target, order. radioing back to a sniper team “My job is to spot the leader with the location of the rounds for my sniper,” said impact. Spotters and team Spc. Bobby C. Duffer, a LRSD leaders recorded the informa- senior scout observer and tion in a data on previous mis- sniper team spotter. sions, or DOP, book. This Duffer and other spotters book contains the information position themselves carefully that helps the snipers make behind their snipers, trying to adjustments to the windage closely replicate the same pic- and elevation settings on their ture through their spotter’s Spc. Joseph Crum, LRSD sniper, fires the M-24 sniper rifle rifle scopes when they are out scope that the sniper has during training at East River Range Dec. 18. The training on missions. helps the snipers maintain accuracy for missions. Spotters are the individuals See Snipers, Page 12 January 2, 2005 Freedom Watch Page 11

eNDuRINg ImAgeS Spc. Johnny Aragon Marines with 2nd Bn., 6th Marines, arrive at the presidential Combat Camera’s palace in Kabul to provide security during Afghanistan’s lenses capture activities first presidential inauguration Dec. 6. of Coalition around CJOA

Spc. Johnny Aragon Veterinarians from Task Force Victory’s Surgeon Cell administer medicine to a calf during a cooperative med- ical assistance mission in Khargar Dec. 15.

Sgt. J. Antonio Francis Above: Sgt. Jason Manning, HHC, 76th SIB, holds a local boy on his lap while eating with elders in a village near Gardez city Dec. 17. Left: Soldiers from Task Force 168 convoy through the winter snow on their way to conduct a CMA in Khargar Sgt. J. Antonio Francis Dec. 15 . Page 12 Freedom Watch January 2, 2005 Marines renew focus on Afghan mission Story and photo by Terrorism, McAbee answered questions patrolling with his company in the Marine Lance Cpl. Rich Mattingly from the Marines about a variety of sub- Asadabad area for the past month, building 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment jects ranging from how long they could a rapport with the community during mis- expect to be deployed, to how the future sions. landscape of forces projected into the “The kids all love us,” said Thomas. “The CAMP EGGERS, FORWARD OPERAT- Middle East might look. older people, like our age, are curious. The ING BASE ASADABAD, Afghanistan –– “Your clock started the moment you got old folks are really appreciative. They come During a visit to Marines and Sailors in country,” said McAbee, to the relief of up and want to shake your hand and say deployed to Afghanistan, the deputy com- many of the Marines. “You can expect to ‘thank you’ and ‘we love the Marines.’ ” manding general of Marine Forces Central be here seven months. If you look to the Thomas was joined in his sentiments Command, gathered the Marines and future, that’s what we’re going to do. Marine by Pfcs. Andrew Freudenberg and Sailors of India Company, 3rd Battalion, You’ll be home seven months and Dan Wiesen, both of Co. I, 3rd Bn., 3rd 3rd Marine Regiment, who have just com- deployed seven months.” Marines. pleted their first month deployed along McAbee, in his traditionally forward style, “Everything we do here – it really feels the Afghan-Pakistan border. also addressed the Marine Corps’ ability to like we’re helping somebody,” said Marine Brig. Gen. Jerry McAbee, a for- remain heavily taxed with deployments and Wiesen. mer commanding general of Marine still provide Marines with the same training “Hearing why you’re doing something Corps Base Hawaii, the home station of opportunities. somewhere helps make it feel worthwhile 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, gave the Marines “We haven’t closed off any options to when it gets difficult to be away from and Sailors a pep-talk Dec. 14, as they set- Marines,” said McAbee. “There won’t be home,” added Freudenberg. tle in for the long-haul of their deploy- any school stoppages. You’ll still be able to McAbee assured the Marines they would ment in support of Operation Enduring go to those alternate billets and train the be deploying again after their tour in Freedom. way you always have.” Afghanistan, and Marines and Fleet Clustered in a “school circle” around the Many Marines said they felt they had a Marine Forces Sailors could expect to be general, and framed by the backdrop of renewed focus of their mission after the involved in the Global War on Terrorism Asadabad’s imposing mountains, the general’s talk. for a long time to come. troops of “America’s Battalion,” were “We’ve only been here a month, but it’s “This war that we’re in is going to be eager for word of their sister unit, 1st easy to lose site of why we’re here and what longer than the Cold War, and will be Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment’s activities we’re doing,” said Marine Lance Cpl. Brian fought on more fronts,” said McAbee. in Iraq, as well as any information on what Thomas, a rifleman with 1st Platoon, Co. I, “You Marines and Sailors are fortunate. they could expect during the rest of their 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, after speaking with You will always be able to tell your grand- tour in Afghanistan. the general. children, when you’re in your rocking Rather than spend just a few minutes “It reiterated our purpose for me,” con- chair down in Louisiana, that you didn’t extolling the virtues of the Global War on tinued the 21-year-old who has been just sit around during this fight.” Snipers: Training helps shooters maintain proficiency continued from Page 10 not only fill the role of task during the day, and once hours, even days, with mini- sniper, but also share their the sky darkened, switched to mal movement in poor con- through his rifle scope. On a experience with their spot- night-vision optics. The rain ditions. mission, this allows the spotters. and overcast conditions While the rain fell, and after ter to track the same move- “The spotters need to be pushed the capability of their a chill set in during the dark- ment the sniper is seeing, and just as good as the sniper,” night-vision equipment, but it ness, the teams fought against on a range it allows them to said Henry. “If for some rea- was just one more part of the shivering, maintaining a calm see the impact of the round. son the sniper goes down, training – being ready for the composure as they lay on the “My spotter identifies the the spotter needs to be able toughest situation. cold ground, knowing how targets, makes necessary com- to take that shot.” On a mission, a sniper team critical discipline is to their munications with others and This is a task the spotters can’t choose the conditions mission. watches my back,” said embrace. under which they will have to “The weather and patience Corter. “A lot of responsibili- “I’m learning something acquire and accurately engage are the hardest parts of our ty comes with their job.” new,” said Duffer. “It’s always a target. The more training job,” said Corter. “We some- Ideally, spotters are the good to have as much train- they do, the better they times sit there for (who) most experienced members ing under your belt as you become at adapting to the knows how many days, star- of a sniper team, which con- can.” conditions. ing at the same rock for our sists of a sniper and a spot- At the range, the snipers Additionally, training in one shot. ter, said Henry. and spotters took turns poor weather conditions “These ranges make every- But LRSD has had to modi- behind the M-24 sniper rifle, helps to prepare the snipers thing more accurate so we fy this, relying on sniper firing 10 rounds each at both and spotters for missions that can get that one shot, one school-qualified Soldiers to targets. They performed this may require them to sit for kill.” January 2, 2005 Freedom Watch Page 13 Supplements promise results, pose risks SafeguardingSafeguarding thethe CoalitionCoalition Story by Sgt. Frank Magni 17th Public Affairs Detachment AFGHANISTAN –– The path to fit- ness, weight loss and nutrition requires discipline and hard work, but many are turning to supplements to find a faster route to these goals. Easily purchased over the counter, many supplements promise an extra edge. But with their promises come potential long- and short-term side effects, along with the extra expense. Still an under-regulated industry, supplements make certain claims that are in many ways unfounded, said Dr. (Lt. Col.) Spc. Cheryl Ransford Brent Smith, 325th Combat Support Marine Sgt. Donald Campbell (left) and Marine Staff Sgt. Matthew Yarberry, Hospital, emergency room doctor. both of MALS-42, look at supplements in the main PX/BX at Bagram Air Base. “For many of these supplements there is still no scientific evidence they will per- vitamin A causes kidney damage,” said Androstenedione without a prescription form as advertised,” said Smith. Smith. “Huge protein load can also cause from a doctor. Along with making claims that aren’t kidney and liver damage,” he said of some In addition to consulting a doctor, peo- substantiated by science, supplements of the common contents of dietary supple should do their own research into the also lack study into the undesired side plements. specific supplement. Research should effects. And while many Coalition members are include reading and strictly following the “Within the supplemental food and turning to supplements to reach desired label of each supplement. nutrition industry, many times you don’t effects with their body, many of them are “Taking twice the recommended dosage know what you’re taking,” said Smith. ignoring simple solutions. won’t double the effect,” said Messner. “There is still limited scientific study into “There is no replacement for a balanced “In fact, overuse can be very dangerous.” the long- and short-term side effects (of) diet,” said Spc. Brian Messner, 325th CSH Another important element in supple- many over-the-counter supplements.” nutritionist. “If you need to lose weight ment use is proper hydration. While there is little support for many of or even build muscle, there are many ways “In addition to taking proper dosage, the positive claims of supplement compa- to achieve these goals through diet.” hydration is one of the most important nies, there are ample studies that reveal Messner said he sees many Coalition things when taking supplements,” said the negative effects of some. members getting their nutrition advice Smith. Smith said many people think supple- from the wrong people. Smith reminds people that while proper ments are safe because companies call “Just because you meet a guy in the gym diet and exercise will ultimately yield the their products all-natural. who has (had) positive effects from taking best results for anybody trying to improve “All-natural does not imply safeness,” a supplement, this doesn’t mean it will their health, there are some ways supple- said Smith. “There are many natural have the same effects for you,” said ments can help. ingredients that can be very harmful to Messner. “Each person is different. Taking a multi-vitamin can help some your health. Factors like age, gender, weight and even people compensate for what they don’t “We do know that long term overuse of ethnic backgrounds can have different get from eating. effects for the same supplement.” “A simple once-a-day vitamin makes Note to U.S. service members Both Smith and Messner recommend a empirical sense if you don’t have a diverse As of Jan. 20, all products contain- person should consult a doctor if they diet,” said Smith. ing Androstenedione will be illegal insist on taking supplements, not a friend While the path to weight loss and the without a prescription from a doc- or gym buddy. perfect body through supplements offers For some supplements, this is a require- many benefits, it’s important to pay atten- tor. Personnel who currently have ment. Supplements containing the ingre- tion to overall health. products containing this ingredient dient Androstenedione, which are cur- “Many supplements help people achieve should ensure they have disposed rently available over-the-counter, will short-term goals,” said Messner. “If you of them prior to Jan. 20 to avoid soon be available only by prescription. are really serious about your goals, sup- Effective Jan. 20, it will be illegal to pos- plements will only play a small part of legal repercussions. sess any supplement containing your success.” Page 14 Freedom Watch January 2, 2005 Program brings parents to children on tape Story and photo by the program in Lt. Col. Susan Meisner Bosnia and complet- Office of Military Cooperation – Afghanistan ed over 100 tapings there. It was very popular.” KABUL, Afghanistan — The letter began Johnson, OMC-A “Dear Reserve Master Sgt. (D. Keith) Public Affairs Office Johnson – Your post on anysoldier.com noncommissioned really touched my heart. officer in charge, “You see, my father was deployed to arrived in Kabul in Vietnam shortly after my birth in 1963 for October. He imme- two years. Upon his return home, everyone diately established was so happy to see him – except me. I did the program here, not know who this person was . . . Had I and has coordinated had a video of him reading a story to watch, the recording of things might not have been so stressful for over 60 tapes either of us.” between OMC – A Thus read the letter from one of the many and its subordinate contributors to the “Read to your Kids” unit, Combined Marine Capt. Carlos Algarin, Combined Forces Command program at the Office of Military Joint Task Force – Afghanistan, reads to his sons as part of the “Read to Cooperation – Afghanistan. The program Phoenix. your Kids” program at the Office of Military Cooperation – enables deployed military personnel to Military members Afghanistan. videotape themselves reading a story to and their families their children, and then mail both the video have expressed their gratitude for, and Lt. Cmdr. Theresa Thurlow, an engineer- and book to them. enjoyment of, the program. Testimonials ing officer with OMC-A’s Defense Stateside readers of the anysoldier.com roll in. Resource Sector, also received a good Web site have donated both the videos and Navy Cmdr. Kathy Schulz, a planner with report from the home front. books that make the program possible. Combined Forces Command – “She (their daughter) loved watching the The program is Johnson’s pet project, and Afghanistan, received a message from her tape,” said Senior Chief Petty Officer he devotes his one “off ” day each week to husband, Rob, about their eight-month-old Douglas Thurlow. “She even tried talking its completion. daughter Jenna’s reaction to the tape. back to the TV once or twice . . . I think it’s “While I was in Bosnia, I read an article in “… she had been very fussy all day until I a great program.” “Stars and Stripes” about a similar program showed her your tape … (and) you com- on a Navy ship,” said Johnson. “I started pletely changed her mood!” See Reading, next page

Dari/Pashto phrase of the week

Dari What time is it? Sa-at chand ast (Saw-awt chaund awst) Pashto What time is it? So bajay da AfghanAfghan culturalcultural tidbittidbit (Soe bah-jay dah)

In Afghan culture, while it is normal for men to exchange handshakes and hugs, it is offensive to hug a woman or shake her hand. It is also offensive for a man to stare at a woman. January 2, 2005 Freedom Watch Page 15 Essay: Integrity –– ‘To possess it is to wear it for life’ This essay is the winner of the values essay con- ahead, integrity is a rare and valuable everything said is at face value. test for “Integrity.” thing. To possess true integrity is to have This is integrity. It is built over a life- Integrity – If you could break it open earned the trust of all those who come in time, cultivated and groomed. It is unwa- and look inside, what would you see? contact with you. vering. The value of a person’s integrity is There are many things that can be said Integrity is an individual’s most critical only equal to how firmly they adhere to about integrity. Depending on where you asset, and in certain cases it becomes their conviction of it. Integrity is not look and who you ask, integrity could essential to maintain healthy communica- something that can be turned off and on mean several different things. The tions. When split-second decisions need at will. It is either there or it is not. The Soldiers Handbook says that integrity is to be made and time is running out, foundation must be established and doing “what’s right, legally and morally.” knowing that you can rely on a person’s maintained throughout your life, day by The Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary integrity to steer you in the right direc- day, to truly claim that you possess this defines integrity as “adherence to a code tion is an invaluable asset. In times of cri- rare value of character. If it’s there, there of values.” So what then does integrity sis and war, where tempers flare up and will be no need to make claims or blow actually mean to us as individuals in our patience is in short supply, communica- whistles, your pure integrity will shine out daily lives? tions can become strained. Knowing that to everyone privileged enough to make To me, integrity is an aspect of a per- an individual possesses integrity can keep your acquaintance. If you crack open son’s character. They either have that the vital lines of communication open, integrity and see inside, you would see a soundness of character which can only no matter the levels of stress. Integrity firm conviction and a soundness of char- be defined as integrity, or they do not. will ensure communications will be made acter that cannot be impersonated. This Knowing that an individual has integrity with utter sincerity and candor, never is integrity, and to possess it is to wear it is knowing that you can trust them wanting for honesty. This is crucially for life. implicitly. In a time when honesty is important in such troubled times. There Spc. Aaron Sorensen ridiculed and lying is seen as a way to get is no need to question or double check, HHC, 1st Bn., 211th Avn. Rgt. Reading: Troops read to their children through video continued from previous page Afghanistan’s National Military it for our children.” least gives them a face to see. Academy. “It’s been a great morale boost And that’s really important for Letting children know For many this is their first for almost everyone I’ve talked the little ones.” deployed parents are thinking of experience with a program of to. Without the help from peo- (Editor’s note: To participate in the them is main point of the pro- this kind. ple at home sending us supplies, “Read to your Kids” program or start gram. “I’ve never done this before, none of this would have been a program at your location, contact “I thought this would be a and I’ve been deployed almost possible,” said Johnson. Master Sgt. D. Keith Johnson at unique way to show my two-and-a-half years over the “Maintaining contact with Office of Military Cooperation – youngest daughter I was think- last four,” said Marine Capt. loved ones during deployment Afghanistan Public Affairs at DSN ing of her and doing well,” said Carlos Algarin. “It’s a wonderful is important. Nothing will 312-237-1616 or Staff Sgt. Jared Lt. Col. Timothy Porter, program—your kids can see replace Mom or Dad being Myers at Combined Joint Task Force deployed from Fort Monroe, you. My wife is looking forward home,” he said. “But the kids Phoenix Public Affairs at DSN Va., to work on standing up to receiving the tape and playing getting to see them on TV at 312-237-2063.)

Letters to the Editor OEF “Values” Essay Contest Personnel in Afghanistan are invited to participate in the Operation The Freedom Watch would like to publish your Enduring Freedom bi-monthly “Values” Essay Contest sponsored by opinions on topics of importance and interest to CJTF-76. those serving in OEF. The current value is “Respect.” Please send your thoughts in letter form to the edi- Rules tor. All letters e-mailed must include full name, unit, Essays should include the definition of the featured value and your own experience(s) that reinforce this value address and, when possible, telephone number. We Essays will be at least one and no more than two pages will not print anonymous letters. Please limit all let- (typed/neatly printed and double-spaced) ters to 200 words or less. Please include a cover page with Title, Author’s Name, Supervisor’s Name, Unit/Organization, Phone Number and e-mail We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clari- address if available ty and decorum. Do not put name directly on essay Please avoid implying criticism of U.S. or DoD poli- Submit essays to EO Adviser nearest your location, via e-mail cies and programs, advocating or disputing specific or hard copy by Jan. 10. The winning essay writer will receive a CJTF-76 Commanding General’s political, diplomatic or legislative matters, or implying Certificate of Achievement and other prizes to be announced. The essay criticism of host nation or host nation sensitivities. will also be published in a future issue of the Freedom Watch, and in the bi-monthly EO Update. Please send your letters to: EO is also looking for E-7s and above to help review essay submissions [email protected] and select the winning essay. Call the Bagram EO Senior Adviser at DSN 318-231-3021 for more infor- We look forward to hearing from you! mation. CCoommppaassssiioonn

Freedom Watch January 2, 2005