United States Forces -Iraq
CHRONICLEVolume 1, Issue 9 September 2010
Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III returns to Iraq, takes command of USF-I as Operation New Dawn begins Page 2 At the United States Forces–Iraq Change of Command Ceremony, Sept. 1, at Al Faw USF-I Palace, Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III grasps the USF-I colors and accepts the duties and responsibilities of the command. HRONICLE (U.S. Army photo by Lee Craker) C The Official Magazine of United States Forces — Iraq
On the Cover September 2010 Volume 1, Issue 9
USF-I Commander Gen. Lloyd J. Austin, III
USF-I Deputy Commander (Operations) Lt. Gen. Robert W. Cone
Public Affairs Officer Col. Ben Danner
Public Affairs Sergeant Major Sgt. Maj. James M. Posten
page 6 Editor/Layout and Design JBB welcomes new partner Ms. Renea L. Everage
Questions, comments and concerns about the USF-I Chronicle can be addressed via email at usfichroniclegroupmailbox@iraq. centcom.mil. Submissions of articles, photos and letters are also welcome. The Chronicle reserves the right to edit for security, accuracy, propriety, clarity and space. Archived issues are available at http://www.dvidshub.net. Electronic versions of current issues can be found at www. usf-i.com.
The USF-I Chronicle is an authorized monthly publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of this monthly publication are not necessarily the official views of or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the Department of Defense. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the Public Affairs Office of the United States Forces-Iraq. page 16 New Iraqi Army general arrives in Diyala
Departments
Feature up Front page 1
Freedom’s Focal Point page 10 Photo Feature page 20 page 18 Iraqi CET Course conducts first graduation In Memoriam page 21 FEATURE UP FRONT
September 2010 1 of command or more recently as the director of the Joint Iraq. USF-I, New Mission Under Staff, Lloyd Austin, like Ray Odierno, has always led by “If there’s one lesson I’ve taken from our involvement example.” here,” Odierno told the crowd in his farewell address, “it Story and background photo Austin, a veteran combat commander with a reputation is the sheer magnitude of what we are capable of when we by Sgt. 1st Class Roger Dey for leading from the front, takes command of USF-I as trust in ourselves, remain focused on our commitment New Leadership USF-I Public Affairs seven years of combat operations under Operation Iraqi and work side by side, arm in arm with our Iraqi partners Freedom come to an end and Operation New Dawn re- and our civil military team.” focuses the efforts of the remaining American troops on Odierno saw the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime as stability operations. the commander of the 4th Infantry Division in 2003. The change of command also marked the departure of In December of that year, Soldiers of his division’s 1st Odierno, who has spent 56 months in Iraq as division, “Raider” Brigade captured Hussein during a raid. corps and theater commander. He helped plan and When he returned to Iraq as the commander of III execute the troop surge that turned the tide of the Corps in 2007 and took commander of MNC-I and insurgency and gave the Iraqi Security Forces the worked with Gen. David Petraeus, who at the time breathing room to develop, and led to the improved commanded Multinational Forces-Iraq, to develop and security that allowed the U.S. to draw down its forces to implement the surge. fewer than 50,000. After only seven months away from Iraq, Odierno Austin will lead USF-I as it focuses on the mission returned to relieve Petraeus as commander of MNF-I. of advising and assisting the Iraqi Security Forces, Since then he worked to implement the requirements protecting and supporting the efforts of civilian, military of the bilateral security agreement; overseeing the and non-governmental agencies to build the civil capacity withdrawal of troops from the cities, the consolidation of of Iraq, and in partnering with the Iraqi military in MNF-I and five other major commands into USF-I and operations aimed at maintaining pressure on terrorist witnessing the success of the Iraqi Security forces as they networks, proved their mettle by securing 7599 polling sites during “It is my sincere honor to return to this great country the parliamentary elections in April of this year. to serve once more with my Iraqi friends,” Austin Odierno credited the all the troops who served under said in a deep voice that resonated in measured tones him for making those accomplishments happen. throughout the palace. “And to all the Soldiers, Sailors, “We stood together through difficult times, we fought Airmen and Marines, Coast Guard and civilians serving together, we laughed together and sometimes we cried under United States Forces Iraq, it is indeed my honor together. We stood side by side and shed blood together,” and a distinct privilege to serve with you as we undertake he said. “But it was for the shared ideals of freedom, the next phase of our effort in Iraq.” liberty and justice.” Austin’s command of USF-I marks his third tour in Before leaving the stage and a standing ovation, Iraq. His first was with the 3rd Infantry Division during Odierno expressed his faith in the man who was taking the 2003 invasion, where he earned a Silver Star for valor over for him. while leading the division’s march to Baghdad. “I remain supremely confident that General Lloyd He returned in 2008 as the commander of XVIII Austin will carry on our legacy of positive change for the Gen Lloyd J. Austin III (left) accepts the United States Forces-Iraq colors from Marine Gen. James Mattis, commander of U.S. Airborne Corps, and relieved Odierno as the commander Iraqi people,” he said. Central Command, at the USF-I Change of Command Ceremony, Sept. 1. Under Operation New Dawn, Austin, who relieved Gen. of Multinational Corps – Iraq. At the time, U.S. and “His incredible reputation of professionalism and Ray Odierno (right), now has the responsibility of overseeing a mission in Iraq focused on partnership, commitment and stability multinational forces were beginning to drawdown from dedication precedes him. And U.S. Forces-Iraq is in great operations. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kelly Morehouse) the height of the surge and the mission of the U.S. hands at this important juncture. There is simply no one ilence fell across the Al Faw Palace rotunda. The in Iraq. military began its gradual shift from combat to stability more qualified.” crowd of uniformed service members, civilian Mattis, in turn, presented the colors to Austin, charging operations. As the ceremony drew to a close, Austin spoke Sdignitaries and guests, and a small army of him with the responsibility of leading the U.S. military in Biden welcomed Austin to his post, but paid tribute to realistically about the challenges that lay ahead, but journalists filled the main floor focused on the men who a new campaign and a new mission in Iraq. his predecessor as well. reaffirmed the dedication of U.S. forces to help Iraqi had taken up positions beneath an enormous white flag “This change of mission, to state the obvious, would “On the last day of his command, I’d like to especially develop into a stable and secure nation. emblazoned with the symbol of United States Force-Iraq. never have been possible without the resolve and thank General Ray Odierno,” Biden said. “This man is “Although challenges remain, we will face these Soldiers crowding the balconies above leaned forward. tremendous sacrifice and competence of our military, not only a warrior, but a diplomat in the best American challenges together. Iraqi still faces a hostile enemy As Gen. Raymond T. Odierno relinquished leadership the finest, if our Iraqi friends will forgive us, the finest tradition. who is determined to hinder progress,” he said. “Iraq’s of USF-I to Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, the entire world fighting force in the world,” Biden said, as he opened the “I want to thank him for his exceptional, and I’m enemies will continue to seek opportunities to pursue seemed to be watching. ceremony. not exaggerating, exceptional service. More than four their objectives, but make no mistake, our military forces Under the gaze of Vice President Joseph Biden, Following the symbolic hand-off of the flag, Secretary years leading forces here and working closely with Iraqi here, and those of the Iraqi nation remain committed Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Adm. Mike of Defense Robert Gates welcomed Austin to his new job. political leaders, many of them sitting here today; I to insuring that our friends in Iraq succeed and we will Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Odierno “As America was fortunate to have General Odierno in think they will all acknowledge that they had absolute, demonstrate our commitment through a continued passed the USF-I flag to the presiding officer, Marine the wings two years ago, we are fortunate to have Lloyd complete faith and trust in this man.” partnership with the Iraqis. We will help the Iraqis General James Mattis, commander of U.S. Central Austin ready to take the baton from him one more time Odierno has been the towering, bald figure many have develop their capability to provide for their own national Command, and surrendered his command of U.S. forces today,” Gates said. “Whether leading troops at every level seen as the craggy face of America’s recent strategy in defense.” 2 USF-I Chronicle September 2010 3 o exhibit their capability to secure a more stable and Iraqi Army Maj. Gen. Ali Jassim Mohammed Hassen al-Frejee, commanding general of the Iraqi Army sovereign Iraq, Iraqi Army T 17th Iraqi Army Division, is interviewed by a group of Soldiers conducted training, Aug. 30, reporters, Aug. 30, at Joint Service Station Deason. at Joint Security Station Deason in Exhibits Baghdad, Iraq. Nearly a dozen major media outlets captured footage of Commando Below: An Iraqi Army Soldier with Commando enhanced Battalion, 17th Iraqi Army Brigade, Battalion, 17th Iraqi Army Brigade, pulls perimeter clearing a target building on a timed security after finishing an obstacle course, Aug. 30, at Joint Service Station Deason. assault, and moving quickly through capabilities an obstacle course. In the raid scenario, the IA 17th Story by Sgt. Chad Menegay Bomb Disposal Company, Baghdad, USD-C Public Affairs identified an improvised explosive device and deployed a robot to remove it. The IA Soldiers also fired M-16 rifles and answered questions from the media about how they will secure Iraq in light of the U.S. military’s change to stability operations during Operation New Dawn. Iraqi Security Forces are able to provide security and are progressing, said Iraqi Army Maj. Gen. Ali Jassim Mohammed Hassen al-Frejee, commanding general of 17th IA Division. Al-Frejee said he believes terrorists have no place in Iraq, and that one day they will be out of the country. “In this environment, the way that you measure success is in progress,” said Brig. Gen. Ralph O. Baker, deputy In a demonstration of their capabilities. Iraqi Army commanding general-east for United Soldiers with Commando Battalion, 17th Iraqi Army States Division–Center, during a Brigade, navigate through an obstacle course, Aug. 30, press conference earlier in the day at at Joint Service Station Deason. USD-C headquarters at Camp Liberty, Iraq. “I personally think that we’ll be able to look back and say things were successful here in hindsight and not based upon any particular event.” Maj. Gen. Terry Wolff, commanding general of 1st Armor Division and USD-C, offered an explanation of how Operation New Dawn would be different from Operation Iraqi Freedom to curious members of the media. The main difference is an end in U.S. combat operations, he said, adding that Iraqi Security Forces have effectively taken ownership and displayed competence and confidence in day-to-day missions throughout An Iraqi Army Soldier with Commando Battalion, 17th Iraqi Army Brigade, waves the Iraq. flag of Iraq as part of a demonstration, Aug. 30, to signify the transition to an emphasis “They tell us that they can provide on stability operations in Operation New Dawn. security on a daily basis,” Wolff said. 4 USF-I Chronicle September 2010 5 Story by Staff Sgt. Phillip Butterfield 332nd AEW Public Affairs JBB welcomes Iraqi military return JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq -- Right: A joint Army, Air Force and Returning home from an extended Iraqi Army color guard presents the leave-of-absence is a joyous occasion, colors at the beginning of a ceremony and for a unit of the Iraqi Army and welcoming the Iraqi Army to Joint Base local leaders, this homecoming was Balad, Aug. 16. “This ceremony today marked by a ribbon cutting ceremony enhances the continuing partnership and words of encouragement. between the 4th Battalion, 17th Iraqi August 16 marked the return of Army Brigade, U.S. Division-North Iraqi military forces back to Joint Soldiers, and U.S. Air Force Airmen on Base Balad, as U.S. Soldiers, Sailors Joint Base Balad. The combined honor and Airmen welcomed the 4th guard symbolizes the partnership, based on mutual interests, shared values, and Battalion, 17th Iraqi Army Brigade. above all, mutual respect, and is one to Not since the beginning of 2003, which we remain deeply committed.” when JBB was known as al Bakr said Maj. Gen. Craig Franklin, 332nd Air Air Field, has the Iraqi military Expeditionary Wing commander. (U.S. had a presence on the base. Now, Air Force photo by Senior Airman Matt more than seven years later, JBB is Coleman-Foster) transitioning back into Iraqi control as part of the responsible drawdown Below: Lt. Gen. Rashid Flayah and redeployment of U.S. service Muhammad Al- Halifi, Samarra members from Iraq. Operations Center commander, and Maj. Gen. Craig Franklin, 332nd Air “We (the people of Iraq) are Expeditionary Wing commander, cut thankful for everything the United through a ribbon symbolizing the opening States has done for our country,” of the Iraqi Army’s new facilities, Aug. said Iraqi Lt. Gen. Rashid Flayah 16, at Joint Base Balad. (U.S. Air Force Muhammad Al-Halifi, Iraqi Samarra photo by Senior Airman Matt Coleman- Operations Center commander. “We Foster) are willing and prepared to take on the responsibility of providing security for Iraq. This is a happy day Lt. Gen. Rashid Flayah Muhammad Al-Halifi, Samarra Operations Center for the people of Iraq and our U.S. commander, and Maj. Gen. Craig Franklin, 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing commander, partners.” answer questions at a news conference after the opening ceremony for the Iraqi Army’s new compound, Aug. 16, Joint Base Balad. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman The 332nd Air Expeditionary Marianne E. Lane) Wing, Army 103rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command and Army continuing the security and prosperity demonstrates this daily in the 2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery of Iraq as U.S. service members and Salah-ad-Din province. This event Regiment have worked as part of a their commands redeploy home or symbolizes our enduring friendship joint team with other organizations forward deploy to new operating and that first step of many for the across JBB to designate and repair locations. eventual transfer of JBB back to the buildings, build security fencing “This is another level of partnership Government of Iraq. We are proud and gates, provide fuel points, and and the first step of many steps to serve side-by-side with the 4th establish communication and access leading up to the turnover of this base Battalion of the 17th Brigade of the procedures, said Col. Michael Myers, to the government of Iraq as United Iraqi Army.” 332nd EMSG commander. States forces withdraw by Dec. 31, The Iraqi unit will be working with “Together, we have brought this 2011,” said Maj. Gen. Craig Franklin, Army Task Force 2-11. TF 2-11 serves Iraqi Army unit side-by-side with us 332 AEW commander. in the supporting role in partnered on to JBB,” he said. “We celebrate With American service members operations to advise, train, and assist every step on the journey to return leaving Iraq, the Iraqi people’s well- the Iraqi Army. custody of this base to the Iraqis, being will be left in good hands. “Our focus in all our efforts is to and we’re proud of our Airmen and “The Iraqi Security Forces have develop the Iraqi Army’s capacity Soldiers for all they have done to proven to the world to be extremely in order to better enable them to make this major step possible.” capable and professional as they conduct counter-terrorism operations The 4th Battalion, 17th Iraqi Army provide security for the Iraqi people,” and provide security for the Iraqi Brigade will be the first of several said Franklin, a native of Chicago. people,” said Maj. Mark Sherkey, 2-11 Iraqi military units to enter JBB, “The 17th Iraqi Army Brigade FAR battalion executive officer. 6 USF-I Chronicle September 2010 7 USCG, Iraqis partner to stabilize
Story by Sgt. Francis Horton electrical power in Iraq USD-S Public Affairs
UMM QASR, Iraq – The “It’s like an on-land power facility,” have been hired to help secure Government of Iraqi government said Coast Guard Lt. j.g. Frank the ship, Cevlik said. Around 70 has been concentrating on providing Bullock, a logistic coordinator with people from Umm Qasr keep the basic necessities to its people while the Joint Interagency Task Force. ship safe 24 hours a day. Onboard, striving to maintain order and Reciprocating generators on the Turkish workers keep the generators security. deck of the ship use a refined fuel maintained and running. Electricity has been an issue Iraqis provided by the Iraqi Department of “Sand storms are the biggest are concerned about. In the southern Energy. The electricity is run to the problem,” Cevlik said. The generators Above: Turkish workers run fuel hoses across the deck of city of Basra and throughout Iraq Iraqi power grid. This ship alone has operate as close to full capacity as the Dogan Bey power ship to demonstrations have been held the ability to power Umm Qasr with possible, but during periods of high keep the generators filled and demanding more reliable power. some left over, he said. wind, sand and dirt get caught in pumping to capacity. (Courtesy In response, steps are in place to A five-year contract has been the filters causing overheating and Photo) help ease the power problems. signed with the Iraqi Department automatic shutdowns. In the southern port of Umm Qasr, of Energy for the ship to provide Cevlick is confident issues like the hub of imports and exports for power, said the plant manager and these will be easy to get around. the country, a large ship sits moored ship captain, Mutlu Cevlik, a Turkish The next step is to hire a security to the docks. It is adorned with sailor from Istanbul. A second ship officer to help bring the ship up to Turkish and Iraqi flags painted on the has also been dispatched from international safety standards. side, and large transformers cover the Turkey. “We want to make this majority of the deck. Security cameras and local guards environment better,” Cevlick said.
Joint Interagency Task Force logistics coordinator, Coast Guard Lt. Matthey Spolarich and Mutlu Cevlik, plant manager and ship captain, tour the power-generating ship. Spolarich is working around the Turkish power ship, Dogan Bey, sits moored in the southern port ports of Iraq to help improve of Umm Qasr. It provides enough power to run a small Iraqi city. their security and get them Currently, the ship feeds into the main Iraqi power grid. up to international standards. (Courtesy Photo) 8 USF-I Chronicle September 2010 9 10 Freedom’s Focal Point tf St. un utd ad ihe Lw (et n rgt, n Iai ry g. otd Ali Mortada Sgt. Army Iraqi and right), and Mansour (center).(U.S. Army photo by LeeCraker) (left Lowe Michael and Hurtado Juan Sgts. Staff Right: colors. (U.S. Army photoby LeeCraker) and Staff, of Chiefs the Joint of posting F.the during James the honors Ambassador render Iraq,Jeffrey, to Ambassador of U.S. Chairman Mullen, Mike Adm. (left), Gates M. Robert Defense Far right: right: Far Responsible Drawdown ofForces inIraq. (U.S. Army photoby SFCRoger Dey) on 1st Lt. Julianna S. Regis, in recognition of her significant contribution to USF-I in support of the Top right: Craker) Lee by photo Army (U.S.Iraq. to responsibility security of transition the and operations stability to shift the signifying Dawn, New Operation to FreedomIraqi Operation from mission of change 1. Sept. Palace,Faw Al at Ceremony Above: USF-I Chronicle USF-I USF-I Change of Command Ceremony Color Guard members Guard Color Ceremony Command of Change USF-I Vice President Joseph Biden speaks to the audience at the USF-I Change of Command pins the Army Commendation Medal Commendation Army the pins Gates M. Robert Defense of Secretary U.S. Distinguished guests Distinguished
for the USF-I Change of Command Ceremony Secretary of Secretary Ceremony Command of Change USF-I the for The change of command ceremony also marks the official the marks also ceremony command of change The included U.S. Army U.S. included
September 2010 September 11 Point Focal Freedom’s 12 Freedom’s Focal Point USF-I Chronicle USF-I theNewDawn... Making Wayfor Sgt. Bryce S. Dubee) by photo Army (U.S. Iraq. self-reliant and secure sovereign, a toward and progress Dawn New to Operation approach the signifies country,the leave to brigade combat last SBCT,the 4th of rest the and Regt., along the road the morning driveof Aug. 18. The redeployment of 1st Bn., Division, 38th Inf. Infantry 2nd Team, Combat Brigade Stryker 4th Stryker armored vehicles from 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, Luisito Brooks) Spc. by photo Army (U.S. Iraq. leave to brigade combat last is the unit The Brigade. Raider the for city partnering the is Fort Lewis, of station home unit’s the outside just located Lakewood, Wash.,Iraq-Kuwaitthe Border.at dedicated to the city of Lakewood, Div. Inf. 2nd 19, Aug. Iraq, in patrol last their On odes rm t SBCT, 4th from Soldiers , drive past a sign a past drive ,
September 2010 September 13 Point Focal Freedom’s Freedom’s Focal Point
A Combat Action Badge is pinned to the shirt on a Soldier from 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Brigade, 3rd Inf. Div., Aug. 12, during a ceremony at Joint Security Station Loyalty. Fourteen Combat Action Badges and one Combat Infantry Badge were awarded during the ceremony. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Emily Knitter) Above: Sgt. John Dunmeyer (second from left), with Company D, 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, shows Iraqi Army Soldiers how to perform preventive Iraqi Air Force firefighters extricate a “victim” from maintenance checks and services on the M1A1 an Iraqi Air Force C-130 during a simulated aircraft fire, Abrams Main Battle Tank, Aug. 3, at Joint Security Aug. 5, at New Al Muthana Air Base, Iraq. The firefighters Station Al Rashid, Iraq. Twelve new IA Soldiers and demonstrated their ability to protect Iraqi Air Force assets leaders attended the 2 1/2-week U.S. forces-led tank and save lives to Iraq training and advisory leaders and familiarization course. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Mary Iraqi Air Force leadership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior S. Katzenberger) Airman Perry Aston) Freedom’s Focal Point
U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates hands the orders authorizing Spc. Shawn M. Mason, a military police officer with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, United States Division–Center, and a Harrisburg, Pa., native, the Purple Heart, Sept. 1, at Camp Ramadi, Iraq. Mason was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries he suffered when his vehicle was struck by a RKG-3 grenade Aug. 9 near Fallujah, Iraq. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Kimberly Johnson) 14 USF-I Chronicle September 2010 15 New Iraqi general Competition brings “danger” to life Story by LaDonna Davis, GRD Public Affairs TIKRIT, Iraq - While living and working in a combat The regional director also says that the RLT provides zone, it is imperative to always be prepared for any type of somewhat of a public relations role for the corps by takes command event. For the security teams at Aegis, not being prepared informing the Iraqi’s about the corps and their mission won’t just get you injured, it can get you killed. and helping them understand the value added to the local This past month, the Aegis Reconstruction Liaison population so that they will support the corps and not be Story and photos by in Diyala Teams took part in their first ever RLT competition held intimidated by them. Capt. Timothy Nash at Contingency Operating Base Speicher in Tikrit, Iraq. “Our RLTs are really providing civil relations for the USD-N Public Affairs The three-day competition tested the teams on their corps,” he says. “It’s important to have the support of the physical fitness, medical, communication, negotiation, Iraqi’s for any project that the corps does, and the RLTs navigation, shooting and tactical skills. In addition to go into the cities and talk to the community members these, they also had to complete a Quality Assurance about what the corps is proposing to build and why it will Assessment of a help them so that real project site when a project with the written actually starts product being there is very little evaluated by U.S. opposition.” Army Corps of But the RLTs Engineers, Gulf aren’t just there Staff Brig. Gen. Diaa, the new commander for the 5th Iraq Army Division expresses Region District to help a project his gratitude for the chance to celebrate the relationship between the Iraqi Army engineers. get off the and United States forces. During his speech he extended an invitation and a hope “This is the ground, they also that one day the U.S. forces who were deployed to Diyala province would return as first time ever provide support civilians and share in the peace that both organizations worked to achieve. we’ve held a for the corps after competition for a project has been DIYALA, Iraq — Iraqi and U.S. Lt. Col. Mel Williams is the 5th Iraq he was commander of the 1st the RLT,” said the, completed. Soldiers celebrated the arrival of a Iraqi Division Stability Transition Commando Brigade, 5th Corps. deputy regional “After a new commander for the 5th Iraqi Team chief. His role is advisor to “I see a man who’s willing to director of Aegis project has been Army Division at the dining facility Diaa and his responsibility is to initiate change and I see a man who’s North. “The completed, it on Forward Operation Base Warhorse provide advice and assistance as Diaa not afraid to stand up for what he security escort sometimes falls in Diyala Province, Aug. 14. develops his staff into a cohesive believes is right,” said Williams, “I see teams or SET An Aegis Reconstruction Liaison Team works together to bring their wound- into neglect,” the Upon his arrival at the dining working unit. Williams says that Diaa the next year that we’re going to be compete every ed team member to safety after a simulated open arms fire attack during regional director facility Brig. Gen. Diaa and his staff is an officer with unlimited potential working hand in hand with these guys year, this year we the first RLT competition held in Tikrit, Iraq.(GRD Courtesy Photo) continued. “The were greeted by leadership from the in what he can accomplish with the as a very challenging year … I am 100 thought we should RLTs thus also 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, division. percent confident that Gen. Diaa is do the same for the RLTs since they also face security and visit sites that have been completed to make sure the 2nd Stryker Advise and Assist “He has as we could say, ‘the the right person to be at the helm of safety issues as well while traveling.” projects are still functioning as they were meant to. Our Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. The right stuff’ to build a team and to this division and steer it in the right The competition was attended by the four RLTs in the RLTs really do provide an invaluable service for the corps general moved easily about the room reinforce his ideals and beliefs,” said direction.” Northern Region and each team was comprised of nine and that’s why it’s important to keep them trained and exchanging words with U.S. and Iraqi Williams. “The one thing that you’ve That direction is set and on Sept. members with the majority being Iraqis. Other team up-to-date on all of their skills.” personnel before being led to his got to understand about leadership 1, U.S. forces changed the name of members were expatriates. The RLT competition brought real-life scenarios to these seat at the head of the table next to is that leadership’s not just talking. its mission from Operation Iraqi Each day the teams were tested and scored on men and allowed their leadership to evaluate both strong 2nd SAAB, 25th ID commander, Col. Leadership is about execution and Freedom to Operation New Dawn, different skills. At the end of the competition the team and weak points. Malcolm Frost. about being a role model and Diaa is launching a new era for a new with the highest score wins and receives an award. But “They had all done a lot of training before hand, and Diaa took command of the 5th Iraqi that by all accounts.” division commander. the competition was more than just fun and games, it that was evident by their good performance,” the deputy Army Division in Diyala during a time Diaa has been in the service of his At the close of the welcome provided valuable training for the teams. remarked. “The team leaders now have measured of change. The drawdown of U.S. country for a long time. He graduated celebration the new 5th Iraqi Army Unlike the Aegis SET, that provides security details to themselves against a standard and now they can see forces in Iraq places the responsibility from the Iraqi Military Academy in Division commander thanked his military and civilian personnel of GRD, the RLT don’t where additional work is needed to close the training of Iraq’s security on the shoulders 1981 and served as an armor officer hosts and attendees with a short escort anyone. Instead they go out to GRD proposed gap.” of the Iraqi Security Forces with and company commander in the 4th speech. project sites to talk to the local population and get an As for future competitions, the deputy says it’s definitely U.S. forces in an “advise and assist” and 24th Iraqi Army Divisions during “It is my hope, that in a few years, understanding for what their needs are and how any a possibility. “It takes a lot of work and there are a lot of role. In a province like Diyala where the Iraq-Iran War. He received a you will all return to Diyala as GRD project could potentially affect them and their factors that have to be taken in to consideration if we do attacks still occur regularly, the master’s degree in military science civilians and as our guests so that neighborhoods in the future. another one, it’s a big production to put on one of these security of the Iraqi people is directly from Iraqi Staff College in 1994 we can share in the peace that we “That is a very valuable role that they fulfill,” said the competitions, but the training is invaluable,” he says. dependent on units like the 5th Iraqi and attended Command College in established here together,” Diaa Aegis regional director of Reconstruction Support Center “We’ll definitely look at the possibility of doing another Army Division. 2001. During the U.S. invasion of stated. North. one, maybe next year sometime.” 16 USF-I Chronicle September 2010 17 Sgt. Anthony Ciofalo (right), an armor crewman Working partnership continues... assigned to Company D, 3rd Bn., 69th AR, 1st AAB, 3rd ID, works with Iraqi Army Pvt. Hamza Abas Shalan Delta Company Soldiers graduate first Iraqi Army M1A1 tank class with 1st Company, 4th Tank Regiment, 35th Brigade, 9th IA Division, on identifying driver station controls, July 29, during the U.S.-led tank refresher course taught at JSS Al Story by Rashid. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Garutti) Sgt. Mary S. Katzenberger USD-C public Affairs
Two members of 1st Company, 4th Tank Regiment, 35th Brigade, 9th Iraqi Army Division, practice a crew evacuation drill from an M1A1 Abrams main battle tank, Aug. 5, while Staff Sgt. John Rideout, an armor crewman with Company D, Company D, 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, observes the training at Joint Security Station Al Rashid. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Mary S. Katzenberger) o one ever said tanking was easy. to graduate and a thorough, internal after action review with the IA Soldiers when the course called Sgt. John Dunmeyer, sweating profusely but helped streamline the 44 training modules now being for removing the power pack—the automatic Nwearing a smile on his face, shares this witticism presented, allowing for concurrent training and more transmission—and removing track to change road with four Iraqi Army Soldiers after he and mechanic efficient course delivery. wheels. Spc. Christopher Pettibone have struggled for almost 10 “In tanking, many of the tasks are compound,” Sgt. Daniel Valdez, lead Abrams mechanic, minutes to remove the air filter pre-cleaner from the hull Dunmeyer said. “(After) going through the first course, we said the last few days of the course were the most of an M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank. were able to identify modules we could rearrange so the enjoyable for him and his Soldiers. Dunmeyer, an armor crewman, and Pettibone, an tasks build upon one another.” “When it came to hands-on, they were ready to Abrams tank mechanic, are two of eight U.S. Soldiers with For example, weapons such as the M240B machine jump in and participate,” he said. Company D, 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 2nd gun and .50-caliber Browning machine gun are now A timed competition on skills, such as weapons Advise and Assist Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, who are introduced at the beginning of the course, instead of later disassembly and reassembly, crew station responsible for instructing IA Soldiers from 1st Company, in the course when the IA Soldiers are taught how to fully preparations and crew evacuations were followed by 4th Tank Regiment, 35th Brigade, 9th Iraqi Army prepare each of the tank stations—gunner, loader, driver question-and-answer sessions intended to test the Division, in the U.S.-led tank refresher course taught at and commander—for operation. IA Soldiers’ knowledge retention. Joint Security Station Al Rashid. “This way they can get familiar with the weapons on the “None of us knew what to expect,” Dunmeyer said. July 29 marked the graduation of 12 IA Soldiers and ground before they get them on the tank,” Dunmeyer said. “The (IA) Soldiers exceeded all of our expectations one officer with 1st Platoon, 1st Co., 4th Tank Regt. In addition, crew evacuations and fire extinguishing in training on the M1A1.” The training at JSS Al Rashid was meant to refresh procedures are now covered prior to the day the IA The American Soldiers said the current platoon training the IA Soldiers have already received, or to Soldiers operate the tanks to ensure the safety of the they are training might even set the bar of excellence compliment training they will eventually receive, from troops in the event of a fire. higher. However, they admit they do miss the American civilian instructors during the M1A1 new Staff Sgt. John Rideout said while the core of the friends they made through the course of the first Sgt. Anthony Ciofalo, an armor equipment training located at the Besmaya Range curriculum has faced minor tweaking, there are two class. crewman with Company D, 3rd Bn, Complex. aspects of the course his team of instructors will continue “After we spent three weeks together, I definitely 69th AR, 1st AAB, 3rd ID, teaches two The Government of Iraq has purchased 140 M1A1s—to during future sessions—the hands-on aspect of the felt I had four new friends,” Dunmeyer said. “I feel IA warrant officers how to disassemble be fielded in September—to both modernize its Army and training and a skills competition held at the end of the they considered me a friend as well.” the .50-caliber Browning machine gun, to ensure a continued strategic partnership with America. course. The Company D Soldiers plan to train the entire Aug. 4. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Mary Constructive feedback from some of the first IA Soldiers Mechanics were able to share their technical expertise 1st Co., one platoon at a time, before redeploying to S. Katzenberger) Fort Stewart, Ga. 18 USF-I Chronicle September 2010 19 Iraqi Police graduate first Counter Explosive
Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Tanya Thomas Team Course in Anbar USD-C Public Affairs ANBAR PROVINCE, Iraqi Police will be able to Iraq—Twenty eight Iraqi operate without U.S. military police officers became assistance. certified technicians “In time they will have to specially trained to handle take complete ownership of what has traditionally been this fight against the bomb one of the most hazardous makers and against the weapon in Iraq — roadside people who put these devices bombs — Aug. 21, after inside and around their completing Anbar Province’s cities,” he said in reference first 12-week Counter to the responsible drawdown Explosive Team course at of U.S. forces. “This threat the Ramadi Training Center. is not going to go away for “Today is a historic day for Iraq anytime soon, and it’s Anbar,” said staff Maj. Gen. Brig. Gen. Kenneth Tovo, deputy commanding general-west important that they are Baha Husayn Abd Hassan, for USD-C, presents an Iraqi Police Officer with a certificate of able to deal with it, without Anbar provincial director completion in Anbar, Aug. 21, during a Counter Explosive Team having to rely on too much of police, who attended the course graduation ceremony at the Ramadi Training Center. outside assistance.” graduation. “Before [today], Erwin said his team and the Army used to deal with of course completion and the U.S. Soldiers assigned to the the [improvised explosive devices], Armed Forces’ EOD badge. 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 3rd and we were just looking on. Now, “The shield represents the EOD Infantry Division, United States we’re able to deal with the explosives mission — to protect personnel and Division–Center, will continue advise, ourselves. The [explosive ordnance] property,” said Lt. Col. Everette Price, assist and train operations with the department is the top of the pyramid commander of the 441st Ordnance new Iraqi EOD team in an effort help in Anbar.” Battalion, describing one of the build a more secure, sovereign and David Day, CET lead instructor, badge’s four symbolic elements. stable Iraq, including Anbar province. said his class provided the EOD Capt. William Erwin, commander “We’ll conduct combined response students the basic tools necessary to of the 731st EOD Company, said operations with the Iraqis in the counter IEDs, everything from safety this was not only a monumental lead,” Erwin said. “These graduates and identification to demolition accomplishment for the graduating are a fine unit, and they are a great and proper reconnaissance. Each class, but a significant step toward credit to their country.” graduate was awarded a certificate assuring the people of Anbar that the Iraqi Police graduates of Anbar’s first 12-week CET course gather for a class photo, Aug. 21 at the Ramadi Training Center.
20 USF-I Chronicle In Memoriam Names of service members who died between August 1 and AUgust 31, 2010 while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom
Greater love hath no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
August 7 Spc. Faith R. Hinkley, 23
August 15 Spc. Jamal M. Rhett, 24
August 22 Sgt. Brandon E. Maggart, 24
September 2010 21 At the United States Forces-Iraq Change of Command Ceremony, Sept. 1, Gen. Raymond Odierno receives a standing ovation as he bids farewell to the command. For the past 24 months, he served as commanding general to USF-I and Multi-National Forces Iraq. Odierno will become the commander of Joint Forces Command in Norfolk, Va. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roger Dey)