February 25, 2009

www.dvidshub.net (search phrase: Expeditionary Times) Vol. 2, Issue 8 Navy VIP visits Balad MRAP milestone, DLA’s Vice Adm. Thompson tours Sustainers Logistics page 8 operations Page 5

Sustainer hopes for Citizenship

CA ARNG Soldier applying to become a US citizen Page 7

Celebrating Black History Month at Balad “The Quest for Black Citi- zenship in the Americas”

U.S. Army Photo by Master Sgt. Max Hamlin Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, commanding general of the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), presents Pfc. Derek Sharp of the 5th Squadron, Page 12-13 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, a ceremonial key for the 10,000th Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected vehicle fielded in Baghdad, Iraq on Feb. 20. 287th Sustainment trucks to receive new Fire Suppression System

By Master Sgt. Carl Mar convoy trucks) at Contingency brake fires on convoys,” said unit on COB Adder and possibly 287th Sust Bde Public Affairs Operating Base Adder, Feb. 6. Staff Sgt. Daniel Morgan, 287th all of southern Iraq to have the The new system is the Tri- Sust. Bde., unit movement new system, said Morgan. “I CONTINGENCY OPERATING Max-3 fire extinguisher which noncommissioned officer, and heard that the Tri-Max-3 might BASE ADDER, Iraq – The will replace the 50-pound Pur- supervised the demonstra- be in use with a few units in the 287th Sustain- ple K-Potassium Powder (PKP) tion. Morgan, who is a native northern half of the country, ment Brigade fire extinguisher system that of Wichita, Kan., is responsible but to my knowledge, COB Ad- demonstrated isused on most Sustainment for implementing the new sys- der is the only base in the south a new fire sup- trucks. tem into the 287th Sust. Bde., to have it.” pression sys- “The Tri-Max-3 system is hauling fleet. What makes the Tri-Max-3 tem (to be designed for fighting engine Delivered in early January, better than the PKP system used on its fires, electrical fires, tire and the 287th Sust. Bde., is the only that it will replace, he said, is its superior ability to put out a fire. “PKP will put out a fire, but that fire might flare up again in 10 to 30 minutes. That’s be- cause the powder doesn’t do anything to reduce the residual heat from the first fire. Oil and melted rubber will sometimes continue building up heat and U.S. Army photos by Maj. Timothy Ohlhaver PAGE 2 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 332 ESFS Blotter LEGAL ALERT

13 Feb. – 20 Feb. DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY d INFORMATIONAL ENTRY: HEADQUARTERS, 3 SUSTAINMENT COMMAND The victim came to the law enforcement desk to report a cred- (EXPEDITIONARY) it card fraud at the East Side PX. The victim said that when he checked his bank account on Feb. 12, he noticed a “forced debit” JOINT BASE BALAD of $600 taken out of his U.S. bank account on Feb. 9. The vic- tim was told by a friend that the PX does a “forced debit” when APO, AE 09391 they are not able to get your credit card to process. The last time the victim used his Bank of America debit card was to purchase d a couple of movies and an $80 dollar gift card from the East Side 3 ESC Military Justice Report PX 2-3 weeks ago. In a General Court-Martial convened in February 2009, a noncommissioned officer was convicted of conspiracy to sell military property of a value more DAMAGE TO GOVERNMENT PROPERTY: than $500.00, selling military property without proper authority of a value more The reporting party telephoned the law enforcement Desk to re- than $500.00, and dereliction of duty. The Soldier was sentenced by a Military port damage to his 1999 Ford F150, which was damaged while Judge to the following: parked at DFAC 1. The base patrol was briefed and made contact with the RP. The RP stated that the vehicle was last signed out on 13 Jan 2009. The person who last signed the vehicle out has since left JBB. The patrol took seven photos. • A Bad Conduct Discharge • 10 months confinement MEDICAL EMERGENCY: The reporting party telephoned the law enforcement desk and • Reduction to Private (E-1) reported a medical emergency at the DFAC #4. The victim had an increased pulse, shortness of breath and heavy sweating. The The co-conspirator in the case was convicted in a separate General Court- base patrol and medical team were dispatched to the scene and Martial of conspiracy to sell military property of a value more than $500.00 made contact with the RP. Medical personnel stated they would and dereliction of duty. The Soldier was sentenced by a Military Judge to the be transporting the victim to the Air Force Theater Hospital for following: further evaluation. • A Bad Conduct Discharge

PHYSICAL ASSAULT: • 8 months confinement The victim came to the law enforcement desk and reported an assault that occurred at HAS #6. The patrols were dispatched • Reduction to Private (E-1) to HAS#6 and made contact with the suspect. The suspect was taken into custody and transported to the law enforcement desk • A fine of $6,000.00 for processing. The suspect agreed to make a written statement in which he indicated that he grabbed the victim’s shirt. The suspect was released to his company first sergeant.

Sustaining the Line! NIPR- 443-8602 SIPR- 241-1171 Email- [email protected] LEGAL ALERT

EXPEDITIONARY TIMES 3d ESC Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally Expeditionary Times is authorized for publication by Managing Editor 123rd MPAD First Sergeant Spc. Kelly Anne Beck the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) for the Maj. Paul Hayes, 3d ESC PAO 1st Sgt. Reginald M. Smith [email protected] Joint Base Balad community. The contents of the Ex- [email protected] [email protected] peditionary Times are unofficial and are not to be con- Spc. Kiyoshi C. Freeman d sidered the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. 3 ESC PAO NCOIC 123rd MPAD Production Editor [email protected] Sgt. 1st Class David McClain, 3d ESC Government, including the Department of Defense or Staff Sgt. Tonya Gonzales [email protected] [email protected] Operation Iraqi Freedom. Contributing Public Affairs Offices Expeditionary Times is a command information news- d 3 ESC Staff Writers 123rd MPAD Photo Editor paper in accordance with Army Regulation 360-1 and Spc. Michael Behlin, 3d ESC Spc. Brian A. Barbour 10th Sustainment Brigade reviewed by the ESC G2 for security purposes. [email protected] [email protected] 16th Sustainment Brigade Expeditionary Times is published weekly by the Stars 371st Sustainment Brigade d and Stripes central office, with a circulation of 8,000 Spc. Amanda Tucker, 3 ESC 123rd MPAD Layout and Design 287th Sustainment Brigade [email protected] papers. Spc. Mario A. Aguirre 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing The Public Affairs Office is located on New Jer- [email protected] d 555th Engineer Brigade sey Ave. Building 7508, DSN 318-433-2154. 3 ESC G2, Security Manager Lt. Col Dale Davis, 3d ESC 304th Sustainment Brigade Expeditionary Times, HHC 3d ESC, APO 123rd MPAD Staff Writers [email protected] Sgt. Crystal G. Reidy AE 09391. Web site at www.dvidshub.net [email protected]

Contact the Expeditionary Times staff at: 123rd MPAD Commander Sgt. Alexander Snyder [email protected] 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. February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 3

“Wherever you go, there you are!” Hooah of the Week Chaplains Corner -Thomas a Kempis

Huh?! Although this may appear to be funny or confusing, it is not meant to be. In fact, today’s quote is very serious and conveys one of life’s most important lessons: Wherever you go, you take all of your “baggage” with you. Whoever you are as a person is who you will be wherever you go. Sometimes we think that we can run away from our problems. Some- times we think that a new job, a new town, or a new set of friends will give us a new chance to start all over again. That is true to a certain extent, but there is one thing that will not be new….and that is you! A change of environment or a change of scenery does not necessarily produce a change of personality or a change of attitude. Now that isn’t bad, it is just reality. You will still most likely be the same you. What if you don’t like the “you” that you are? What if you are tired of carrying around all that extra baggage? Then you are in a perfect place to experience a miracle from God. One of God’s specialties is taking broken and hurting men and women and healing them. Through the power of love and forgiveness, many bitter US Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour and unhappy people have been changed and transformed. Let God have your baggage and He will give you a peace like you have never known. Stop running and find rest for your soul. Enjoy the “you” Staff Sgt. David C. Webb is congratulated by Brig. Gen. Michael J. that you were meant to be. Lally, 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) commanding gen- eral, for being selected this week’s “Hooah of the Week”. Webb NOTE: Some people attribute the above quote to Buckaroo Banzai from a popular who is from Chattanooga, Tenn., is a member of the 3d ESC and movie, but he is not the originator! The full quote is this: “So, the cross is always ready works in the G-3 force protection office as a training NCO. Webb and waits for you everywhere. You cannot escape it no matter where you run, for wherever received the award for coordinating the Level 2 Anti-Terrorism you go you are burdened with yourself. Wherever you go, there you are.” —Thomas a Class on Joint Base Balad earlier this month and for his overall Kempis, Imitation of Christ, ca. A.D. 1440 job performance as the force protection advisor.

Submitted by Chaplain (CPT) Peter Strong, brigade chaplain, 304th Sus- tainment Brigade

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Telling the Sustainer Story from all across Iraq Now airing on the Or log on to Pentagon Channel every Tuesday at 2000 IZ www.dvidshub.net every Thursday at 0930 IZ every Saturday at 1530 IZ keyword: Balad and Beyond PAGE 4 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 JET Airmen impress Soldiers at FOB Hunter every pocket on the Airman Battle Uni- By St a f f Sg t . Jo h n Go r d i n i e r 332nd AEW Public Affairs form – stuffing tools into them, thereby, wasting no time looking for tools. FORWARD OPERATING BASE HUNT- With every tent completed, Soldiers, ER, Iraq – It’s like landing on the moon who’ve been living in powerless tents, when the C-130 Hercules touches down move into the newly powered tents with on the landing strip here. In the distance lights, outlets and heating. is a fortress made of T-wall cement bar- “The impact we make makes us feel riers. Dusty, windy and desolate, it’s good,” said Senior Airman Mark Turner, where 20 Joint Expeditionary Task- 732nd ECES CT 10 electrician and Chi- ing, or JET, Airmen are helping out the cago native. “You get to see the project Army. from the beginning to the end and see “Our challenge and main mission is how the Soldiers appreciate what we do. to complete a 64-tent living area bed- We are here to improve their well-being down to support 780 personnel of an and that fact gives you some pride.” entire Army battalion and then some,” “When the team got here to FOB said Master Sgt. Jason Elftmann, 732nd U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Elizabeth Rissmiller Hunter, the Army was pretty happy to Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squad- Staff Sgt. Richard Kahler, 732nd Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron structures see us,” said Senior Airman Phillip Co- ron Construction Team 10 superinten- technician, constructs a floor for a shower unit Feb. 7. Kahler is part of a 20-man team ley, 732nd ECES CT 10 utility systems dent and horizontal repair and project forward-deployed to FOB Hunter to provide a 64-tent living area to the Army. He is de- journeyman. “I had one (Army) special- manager. “I’ve got approximately 20 ployed from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., and is a native of Charlotte, N.C. ist walk up to me and say, ‘When we see JET Airmen comprised of electricians, getting these tents built up and powered sion days earlier than required. the Air Force roll up, we know living carpenters, pavement and equipment up,” said Army 1st Sergeant Jonathon In fact, within two dusty days, the conditions are going to get better.’” technicians or ‘Dirt Boys,’ and plumbers Ballard, Bravo Battery 582nd Field Ar- JET Airmen had completed much of the The Army first sergeant, from Nor- here who are facing a challenge of get- tillery first sergeant. “The work relation- mission. folk, Va., agreed and said he has been ting power, heating and air, and show- ship between the Air Force and Army The Airmen installed two of three impressed since the (JET Airmen) have ers for 64 tents within the week.” is great. Even though the Airmen are shower units with five stalls in each, arrived. The master sergeant, from Lombard, greatly outnumbered by the Army, we including building the structure, put- “I didn’t even know the Air Force did Ill., said JET Airmen solely work for the still take care of them because they are ting in the plumbing, and installing the this kind of work,” Ballard added. “I al- Army here. part of the team, and they work very water heater. Electricians and Dirt Boys ways thought Army engineers came in “We work where they want, when hard.” installed the generator and distribution and built up the FOB. It was a big sur- they want and how they want us to,” Elftmann said the progress thus far panels, dug the power line trenches, and prise when I saw the Air Force come in Elftmann said. has been great, and is expecting to com- wired 32 of the 64 tents. and saw how efficiently and fast they “The Soldiers are looking forward to plete and surpass the challenge and mis- Overall, the JET Airmen made use of work. They have impressed me.” New Predator takes flight in Iraq

By Ma j . St a n Pa r e g i e n place) and, a few seconds later, the Predator carefully 332nd AEW Public Affairs taxied out to the runway -- which is also used by fight- er, cargo and civilian aircraft. JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq -- The 332nd Air Expe- Twenty minutes before sundown, the MQ-1 aircraft ditionary Wing received a new MQ-1 Predator un- launched from the desert base without a hitch, rising manned aerial aircraft and immediately put it into high into the light blue sky to help provide overwatch action here Feb. 13. and security for U.S. and Coalition forces and Iraqis “As far as getting a new aircraft, it’s not very of- alike. Back in the control booth, Lee and sensor op- ten in the Predator community you are launching a erator Senior Airman Charlie Cui were busy talking to brand-new plane that’s never been flown operation- controllers and each other while working a multitude U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Tiffany Trojca ally before,” said Lt. Col. Debra Lee, 46th Expedition- of buttons, controls and radios. Lt. Col Debra Lee, 46th Expeditionary Reconnaissance ary Reconnaissance and Attack Squadron command- “This first day we’ll fly it just a couple of hours,” and Attack Squadron commander, flies an MQ-1 Preda- er. “The one we received today only had four hours said Lee. “After this first sortie is over, it will be full- tor, here Feb. 13. The entire Predator system is made up on it, which includes testing time back in the United up and ready like the rest of our aircraft and it will be of the ground-control system, a satellite link, personnel and the aircraft. Lee is deployed from Creech Air Force States.” able to do everything we need it to with longer mis- Base, Nev., and is a native of Carroll, Iowa. After arriving here disassembled and packed in a sions.” crate, the remotely piloted plane used for reconnais- Day in and day out, the Predator mission continues So far, so good for the new “baby” Predator. sance and strike missions (if needed) was reassembled at JBB. “This was the maiden voyage and all things went within two days and up and flying its perfect first trip “One of the pilots will go out and preflight the well with the launch, even on Friday the Thirteenth, into blue Iraqi skies on “Friday the Thirteenth.” plane, which includes getting all the numbers on the and we don’t expect to have any problems with this “Normally on a daily basis, we are launching air- aircraft that we need to launch it, and come into one airplane,” said Lee. craft with at least hundreds, if not thousands of hours of our ground-control stations and we’ll set it up lo- “While we flew this first mission completely local on them,” added the squadron commander, deployed cally and enter all the significant data we need to con- as we ran patrol around the base, on other missions here from Creech Air Force Base, Nev. “It is great to trol it locally,” Lee added. “Once we get that initial we will hand the aircraft back home through our satel- get a new aircraft.” information then we’ll get in touch with our launch lite system and let our other crews back in the States The commander and pilot went on to point out that and maintenance personnel to do a series of checks control it,” she continued. her squadron can’t accomplish its mission without the to make sure the airplane is airworthy and all the sys- Also deployed here from Creech AFB, Cui said he is maintainers who put it together, and the squadron tems are good to go before taking off.” proud of his work alongside the pilots. can’t fly missions without the work of other aviators Smiling when he walked out to see the new Preda- “What is nice and unique out here is that we work -- both in Iraq and back in the U.S. tor, Maj. Morgan Andrews is one such pilot. with security forces locally to help with security for “The maintenance team we have here is very pro- “It is great anytime you get a new airplane, just like both our base and the Iraqis. We set the Predator up fessional,” Lee said, who’s from Carroll, Iowa. “They getting a brand-new car is nice,” said the major, who to launch its first flight in Iraq. get our aircraft crated up and then unpacked over is also deployed here from Creech AFB and a native of “It’s quite involved in setting up computer systems here in a very short time and are working around the Elk, Wa. “Being part of Operation Iraqi Freedom has and, on my side in sensor operations, I’m responsible clock.” been a good deployment for me to be over here and be for the camera,” continued the Daly City, Calif., na- At 5 p.m. local, the plane went through a series of involved on this side with a new Predator.” tive. “Good communications between the pilot and I checks and the engine started. After another series The Predator teams make sure all the systems are are important so you know what both the pilot and of power and brake checks, maintainers pulled away good to go from minute to minute, and it takes both the plane are doing. You have to keep the overall mis- the chocks (pieces of heavy wood holding the tires in the sensor operator and crew chiefs to make it work. sion in mind.” February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 5 Sustainer receives Samuel Sharpe Ordnance Award Transportation Company, 419th Com- ens’s command are unrivalled according By 1s t Lt. An d r e w B. Bu r q u e s t UPAR,991st Trans. Co., 419th bat Sustainment Support Battalion, 10th to 1st Lt. Andrew Burquest, 991st Trans. CSSB, 10th Sust. Bde Sustainment Brigade is currently serv- Co. executive officer, also from Char- ing his second tour in support of Opera- lotte, N.C. “This is my second deploy- tion Iraqi Freedom and his third deploy- ment with Staff Sgt. Owens and I have CAMP TAJI, Iraq - The United States ment to Iraq including Desert Storm as yet to see a maintenance issue that he Army Ordnance Corps a member of the Ordnance Corps. His could not figure out. Anytime someone honors one of its enlisted peers and superiors recognize him as in the Battalion had a problem that they Soldiers each year with the backbone of the maintenance pla- could not handle, Staff Sgt. Owens was the Ordnance Order of toon for his outstanding performance always there to assist, no matter what Samuel Sharpe for a and support for company operations. kind of equipment they had to work U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Rex Tran career commitment Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Swanson, 419th He dedicates his off duty hours to men- with” he said. to the proud tradi- Combat Sustainment Support Battalion toring younger Soldiers in his platoon, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Donald Dil- tion of ordnance command sergeant major, and a Per- developing their skill sets and providing lon, the maintenance platoon leader, excellence. This year, Staff Sgt. Thomas ris, Calif. native, congratulates Staff Sgt. career guidance. and a Johnson City, Tenn. native, made Owens of Charlotte, N.C. received this Thomas Owens, a Charlotte, N.C. native, One of his mechanics, Sgt. Adam this statement about his senior enlisted honor for his dedication to the Ordnance on an outstanding performance and sup- Lunceford, a Mountain City, Tenn. na- man being this years’ awardee, “Staff Sgt. Corps and unit for his 14 years of mili- port for company operations. Owens is tive, had this to say about his shop fore- Thomas Owens has always been an asset tary service. currently deployed with the 991st Trans- man, “Staff Sgt. Owens always demon- to the 991st Trans. Co. He is well known portation Company, 419th Combat Sus- The Ordnance Order of Samuel strates true military bearing and sets throughout the battalion for getting the tainment Support Battalion, 10th Sustain- Sharpe was created in honor of Samuel ment Brigade in support of Multi-National high standards for his maintenance sec- job done right. Staff Sgt. Owens has also Sharpe, a member of the Council of 13 Division – Baghdad. tion. His commitment to his career and dedicated most of his time to physical freemen of the original 13 American dedication to his troops is among the fitness training with his soldiers. “ Colonies. On April 17th, 1629 Samuel Ordnance Corps continues to honor ca- most respected. I am honored to know The Ordnance Corps has done well Sharpe was appointed the “Master gun- reer Soldiers who exemplify those same Staff Sgt. Owens; the Soldier, the father, to recognize one of its outstanding sons, ner of Ordnance” by the Massachusetts traits as Samuel Sharpe with an award the friend, and I am honored to serve and the 991st Trans. Co. is certainly for- Bay Colonies for his knowledge, exper- that bears his namesake. under his leadership.” tunate to have a Soldier of Owens’s cali- tise, and professionalism. The U.S. Army Owens, motor sergeant for the 991st The knowledge and skills under Ow- ber in its ranks. Sustainers host Defense Logistics Agency Director

St o r y a n d p h o t o s b y to interact with his primary customers, d Sg t . Cr y s t al G. Re i d y the 3 Sustainment Command (Expedi- Expeditionary Times Staff tionary) and the 402nd Army Field Sup- port Brigade. JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Vice Adm. Thompson was welcomed by Brig. Alan S. Thompson, Direc- Gen. Michael J. Lally, Commander 3d tor of the Defense Logis- ESC and received a number of briefings tics Agency based out of at multiple stops on JBB including the Fort Belvoir, Va., visited Defense Reutilization and Marketing Joint Base Balad as Service, 259th Corps Distribution Cen- part of a larger the- ter/Forward Distribution Point, Mine ater-wide visit Feb. Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) 15th. vehicle yard and the Retrograde Prop- Vice Adm. Alan S. Thompson, Director of the Defense Logistics Agency based out of Fort Belvoir, Va., speaks with Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, Commander 3d Sustainment The purpose of Thompson’s visit was erty Assistance Team yard. Command (Expeditionary) during a tour of the 259th CSSB Corps Distribution Center at Lally provided a tour of Joint Base Balad, Iraq on Feb. 15. The Defense Logistics Agency provides supply sup- the joint operation center, port, technical and logistics services to military services and civilian agencies. detailing how transporta- tion is tracked through- “We’re telling them you have to de- economy, you need trucks to move out theater. He said he is velop your business to be successful things around.” proud of the communica- when we (Coalition forces) have left Thompson said he is impressed with tion system that tracks Iraq,” Lally said. the organization of the 3d ESC and Soldiers on convoys. Lally said the Iraqi Trucking Network 402nd AFSB. “It (communication) is a great example of Iraqis develop- “I very much appreciate seeing what is about everyone looking ing their economy. He said the ITN has everyone is doing out here,” Thompson at the same set of facts.” earned over $25 million for the Iraqi said. “It lets us know what we can do to Lally said. tribal consortium and drivers. help you.” During one briefing, The ITN has also accomplished 8,000 The Defense Logistics Agency pro- Vice Adm. Alan S. Thompson, Director of the Defense Lally explained the 3d ESC missions without loss to cargo and no vides supply support, technical and lo- Logistics Agency based out of Fort Belvoir, Va., is is partnering with Iraqis to military escort. This has saved 1300 gistics services to military services and briefed by 1st Lt. Kurt D. Ziegler, an accountable officer develop effective logistics convoy escort teams from being out on civilian agencies. DLA is the one source with the 356th Quartermaster Company during a visit at capabilities. He said part the road. for nearly every consumable item, Joint Base Balad, Iraq on Feb. 15. The Defense Logistics of their mission is to foster “If Iraq is going to be successful they whether for combat readiness, emer- Agency provides supply support, technical and logistics a climate of interdepen- need to have a good economy,” Lally gency preparedness or day-to-day op- services to military services and civilian agencies. dency with Iraqis. said. “If you’re going to have a good erations. PAGE 6 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 374th Finance Boots on Ground b y 2n d Lt. An t h o n y J. Fe d e r i c o team cohesion, not individual accom- UPAR, 3r d De t ., 374t h FM Co., plishment.” 10t h SBDE The finance mobile support team missions have also been immensely CAMP STRYKER, Iraq - After nearly successful with Spc. Gregory Beerli, five months of pre-mo- a Baltimore native, and Spc. Chad bilization and post- Lauffer, a native of Pittsburgh, each re- mobilization training, ceiving Certificates of Achievement for the 3rd Detachment, the outstanding support they provided 374th Finance Man- the Soldiers of 1st Combined Arms Bat- agement Company, talion, 63st Infantry Regiment. 10th Sustainment Outside of work a number of Sol- Brigade Troops diers have taken the opportunity to Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade enroll in college classes or prepare for arrived here on Dec. 14, and is ready to graduate school entrance exams. Ac- take on finance operations in Iraq. cording to Beerli, “The education cen- The 24-person detachment from ter has much to offer deployed Soldiers Fort Lee, Va., will spend the next 11 in the way of counselors, online cours- months providing finance service to es, tutors, and exams. The University the Soldiers of Camp Stryker. In addi- of Maryland University College repre- tion to office operations, the 3rd Det., sentative is helpful in finding a course 374th FM Co., also has a responsibil- that will benefit you in your degree, ity for one of the larger mobile finance and the Army will pay for it.” missions in-country. Carmody, the customer service non- U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Thanh Luu Since taking over finance opera- commissioned officer in charge and Sgt. Dianna Carmody, a Altoona, Pa. native, and Spc. Miguel Briceno, a native of Gaith- tions, the detachment has serviced student at Penn State University, is ersburg, Md., speak about the benefits of using the Eagle Cash Card. Both Soldiers are currently deployed with 3rd Detachment, 374th Financial Management Company, 10th nearly 9,500 customers. The military currently enrolled in calculus through Sustainment Brigade Troops Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade in support of Multi- pay section led by Staff Sgt. Alicia the UMUC. Beerli enrolled in Business National Division – Baghdad. Chandler, a native of Dover, Del., pro- Ethics while Spc. Miguel Briceno, re- cessed more than 3,500 transactions siding in Gaithersburg, Md., is taking for the Graduate Management Admis- erations procedures and setting qual- with 98 percent accuracy. When asked Intelligence studies through the Amer- sions Test, which they will take later in ity standards, the Soldiers of 3rd Det., about the secret to the success, Sgt. Di- ican Military University. Both Spc. their deployment. 374th FM Co. will continue to focus on anna Carmody, an Altoona, Pa. native, Lauffer and Spc. Joseph Bicher, from With the first month of their de- improving their operational process stated, “Our section’s success is due to Richland, Pa., have started studying ployment dedicated to identifying op- and cross training. Transporters rocked by David Cook "It was very exciting to separate a show, whether it is a concert, a meet here to support us because it helps us b y 1s t Lt. G. El i z ab e t h Br o w n myself from Iraq for a moment and and greet or whatever the case may be, drive on and lets us know that people UPAR, 1538t h Tra n s . Co., 419t h enjoy the concert," said Capt. Phillip it is great for the service members to from home really do support us and CSSB, 10t h Sus t . Bd e . Anderson, from Plainfield, Ind., com- be able to get away for a few hours,” want to see us succeed.” CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Soldiers of the mander of the 1538th Transportation said Kabay. For many service members this was 1538th Transportation Company. “David Cook rocked the This is the second USO concert that a great opportunity to see a star that Company, 419th Com- stage and reminded us of the support the company has been able to attend they helped put in the mainstream of bat Sustainment Sup- we have back home," he said. since being deployed. They brighten music. port Battalion, 10th For at least one hour, Cook enter- the spirits of the Soldiers and make Staff Sgt. Loretta Fluck, a Buchan- Sustainment Bri- tained service members and brought a difference to troops who are de- an, Mich. native, said, “I thought it was gade, had the op- calm to the day to day military life ployed. really great to see a new face in music, portunity to relax each Soldier deals with in Iraq, while "David Cook was very personable especially one that myself and many and enjoy a USO they are away from home and loved and took the time after the concert to other Soldiers voted for on American show with musician David Cook dur- ones. sign autographs and take photos with Idol. It is a nice way to release your ing his tour in Iraq at Camp Taji, Jan. “It was fun,” said Chief Warrant Of- all who wanted to,” said Anderson. work stress and have fun with your fel- 21. ficer 2 Brian Kabay, a North Liberty, “It was very fun, it was just a time low Soldiers.” The 1538th Soldiers, an Indiana Na- Ind. native, maintenance technician to forget about work and hang out “It was nice that he took time out tional Guard company from Elkhart, for the 1538th Trans Co. “I would go with friends and not worry about any- of his busy schedule to be over here, Ind., are nearing the end of their year- again.” thing,” said Spc. Jeremy Bontrager, showing his support for the Soldiers. long deployment to Iraq and this was “It was a great time; he played a a native of Goshen, Ind., currently I very much enjoyed the concert. His an event that definitely brought smiles good variety of music. I think that serving with the 1538th Trans. Co. “It meet and greet after the concert was to the troops. anytime someone comes in to perform means a lot when people come over pretty cool too,” said Kabay. Do you have a story idea? Contact the Expeditionary Times

[email protected] February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 7

Fire Suppression Continued from Page 1 flare up again.” the system’s two container bottles. system out there,” he said. if any unit wants it, I can give them “Our tests support the manufactur- Also, no modifications are required on Because of its many advantages the information on how to order it,” er’s claim that fires won’t reignite using Sustainment trucks to accommodate – and Morgan’s enthusiasm for the he said. the Tri-Max-3. The foam and water act the new system; they fit into the same product -- interest in the Tri-Max-3 To date, the 287th Sust. Bde., has together to cool down the source of the mounting brackets as the older PKP system has been spreading. 144 sets of the Tri-Max-3 ready to be fire. However, another great feature of system. “There’s no other product which fielded. Three of those sets will be the Tri-Max-3 is that it only requires a “It only takes five minutes to pre- can compare to this one. I’ve been tell- transferred to the Air Force compo- half tank of the foam and water to ex- pare the Tri-Max-3 and it’s ready ing all the other sustainment brigades, nent on Ali Base adjoining COB Ad- tinguish a fire. You can put out a major again. Volume-wise it also uses less other units about this system. The Air der, which requested them for use on truck fire and still have a half of a tank foam than powder. That saves time Force here is interested in it. The 4th their rescue trucks, and the remainder remaining to put out the fire again if it and money. With PKP, once the bottle Brigade Combat Team, 1st Calvary Di- will go into 287th Sust. Bde., trucks. reignites,” he said. is discharged, it’s not easy to get the vision, here wants to order it for their “My grandfather was a firefighter Lower cost and ease of use are two powder back into it, plus it may take up trucks and I’ve given them the con- for 21 years,” said Morgan. “I know additional benefits of the Tri-Max-3 to three days for a bottle to be turned tract information.” he’d be impressed with this product. I system. Using only one quart of liquid in and returned to you. With the Tri- “You can’t find the system in the certainly am.” foam, three gallons of water and an Max-3, a person can recharge it. It’s regular military ordering system. It air compressor, it is easy to recharge the newest, greatest fire suppression has to be an open-purchase item. So, Sustainer Hopes to Return Home U.S. Citizen During Fuentes’ senior year of high through the process, said that Fuentes the right paperwork for me, sat down b y Sp c . Ke ll y An n Be ck school, an Army recruiter approached deserves to be a citizen; he is a hard with me to help complete it and is help- Ex p e d t i o n ar y Ti m e s St aff him about joining the military. Fuentes worker and is giving his all for America, ing me submit it. He’s been so supportive CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE said it took him only 20 minutes to de- he said. this whole time,” Fuentes said. SPEICHER, Iraq- While on his deploy- cide that he wanted to be a Soldier. In between their convoy security mis- Fuentes said with the support from ment to northern Iraq, He said becoming a Soldier felt like a sions, Preston has been working with his Soldiers and having lived in the states a California National natural decision. Wearing the uniform Fuentes to complete his required appli- since he was five, he already feels like a Guard Soldier hopes to is something he’s been passionate about cations for naturalization. citizen. gain his naturalized citi- from the start and, that he didn’t join to Soldiers applying for naturalization Once he has the certificate stating his zenship. become a citizen- that was just an extra have to fill out a number of forms includ- citizenship, he will not only feel like a By going through bonus to a job he loved. ing an authorization for release of infor- citizen, but will finally be one, Fuentes the process for de- Fuentes said when he decided to be- mation, an overseas processing form (if said. ployed, non-citizen gin the naturalization process, his fellow applicable), authorization of fingerprints, Sgt. Desmond McIntyre, a native of Soldiers, Spc. Edgar Fuentes, a native of Soldiers were more than willing to do all a memorandum of Honorable Service Salinas, Calif., a gunner for the 1st Bn., San Jose, Calif., and driver for the Calif. they could to help. Verification signed by the Soldier’s com- 185th Armor Regt., said he is very excit- Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, “I swear, sometimes it seems like they mander, two passport pictures, an ap- ed for Fuentes. 185th Armor Regiment said he wants to want it for me more than even I do,” Fu- plication of naturalization, biographic “I don’t even know what you could say become an American citizen and feels entes said. information and request for certification about this guy; he’s a character,” McIn- fortunate to have his fellow Soldiers, who Sgt. David Preston, a vehicle com- of military service. tyre said. “He’s really a good Soldier… he have become his close friends, help him mander for the 1st Bn., 185th Armor “Preston was there during the whole deserves it. He’s served his time in the during the process. Regt., who has been helping Fuentes process,” Fuentes said. “He collected all military and he has earned it.” Railroad operations come back to Camp Taji St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y ring to the train’s two-day trek also worked with the IRR in the last Sg t . 1s t Cla s s Mi k e Br a n t l e y to the port city of Umm Qasr on several months to repair the damaged 10th Sust. Bde Public Affairs the Persian Gulf. “The proof of rail spur so that it can accommodate principle shows it’s a safe, effi- limited train operations.” He said it CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The rusted steel cient and cheaper manner and was a successful mission since “we railroad tracks lay in takes Soldiers off of the road.” achieved the mission end state – to be wait. Two concrete bar- The train engine pulled the able to load 40 empty containers on riers that had stood in cars forward, each holding two the train and ship them out of Camp front of a black metal containers. Once the cars were Taji in four hours.” gate for more than loaded, the engine unhooked, Meyer added that a follow-on mis- five years sat off to pulled forward, switched tracks sion will continue this operation and the right as secu- and came around to what was bring cargo from Umm Qasr to Taji as rity forces opened The first locomotive on Camp Taji since 2004 the rear of the railroad cars to an efficient means of transport, and will the gate leading to Main Supply Route comes through Train Gate on Feb. 10, to begin hook up to take the cars off post give the Iraqis more pride and shows Tampa and to the first train to enter the Proof of Principle Rail Mission of moving to the Taji Station for further they can move the cargo and validates Camp Taji since 2004. 40 containers from Camp Taji to the port city of movement south and onward to the transportation corridor between A rail master summoned the on- Umm Qasr. Kuwait. Umm Qasr and Taji. “The IRR is the coming train, both arms raised. The The train conductor, Moham- heart and soul of inland distribution train began slowly moving across ity – Iraqi Railroad, or IRR, program med, said that he is proud to serve with Iraq being a land bridge.” Tampa and forward through the gate manager with the Multi-National his country and to help rebuild it. He Vien said that this will directly im- and onto post. Force – Iraq, said this was the first said that he has worked in the railroad pact on Coalition forces’ abilities to Once the engine, pulling 20 empty time in five years that empty contain- business since 1994. retrograde equipment and material in railroad cars, entered the post, the ers were loaded for Coalition forces on The 10th Sustainment Brigade has the future. It also indicates the possi- gates were secured and the barriers re- the Iraqi Public Railroad. the lead to synchronize all rail efforts bility of expansion of rail operations to placed, thus beginning railroad opera- “This will continue the circle of at Taji, said Maj. Peter Vien, 10th Sus- other parts of Iraq, he said. “This will tions here again. commodities flowing into Iraq,” the tainment Brigade engineer, and Or- revitalize the IRR and will have direct Maj. Scott Meyer, Strategic Mobil- Naugatuck, Conn., native said, refer- lando, Fla. native. “In addition, we impact on the Iraqi economy.” PAGE 8 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 MRAP milestone reached in Iraq ingenuity, hard work St o r y a n d Ph o t o s By and teamwork – Pfc. Ma s t e r Sg t . Ma x Haml i n 123 MPAD Sharp will be able to receive this ten thou- BAGHDAD, Iraq – A team of Soldiers, sandth MRAP know- civilians and contractors ing that thousands of gathered Feb. 20 at the Americans from Texas Victory Base Complex to Baghdad were 100 to celebrate fielding percent behind the ef- the 10,000th Mine- fort to provide the saf- Resistant Ambush- est and best protected Protected vehicle. vehicle possible.” The event dem- First fielded in onstrated force protection of service April 2007, the MRAP members remains the number one pri- quickly became the ority in theater with over 10,000 vehicles number one acquisi- being fielded across Iraq since April 2007 tion priority for the bringing a proven capability to reduce Department of De- combat deaths and casualties associated fense. In order to ex- with improvised explosive devices, mines pedite the delivery of and other explosive threats. these vehicles, mul- U.S. Army private first class Derek tiple contracts were Sharp of the 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry awarded expanding Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division and the capacity to pro- d Greenville, Mich. native received the cer- duce the MRAPs. Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, commanding general of the 3 Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), poses emonial key to the special MRAP as part Lally noted during his for a photo with members of his personal security detail prior to departing the 10,000th MRAP ceremony of the ceremony. speech that the 3d ESC in Baghdad, Iraq on Feb. 20. Highlighting the importance of the ve- received its first MRAP in June 2008 and monial key, Sharp climbed into the driv- are a lot of these getting out to Soldiers.” hicles for Soldiers like Sharp, Brig. Gen. now has a fleet of about 600. er seat and pulled away to the sound of a The confidence that the Soldiers have Michael J. Lally, commanding general of The 3d ESC has yet to lose a Soldier cheering crowd. When asked how he felt in this vehicle were highlighted by the the 3d Sustainment Command (Expedi- operating the vehicles. being part of this ceremony Sharp said actions of Lally who traveled from Joint tionary) said, “As a result of American After being presented with the cere- “It feels pretty good, at least I know there Base Balad to the ceremony in a MRAP. Ohio representative visits troops in Anbar province

b y 1s t Lt. Sc o t t De t l i n g diers from the 371st Sustainment Bri- forces grow and the changes in the 371st Sust. Bde. Historian gade of Kettering, Ohio. Col. Daniel working environment. ur Soldiers have Tack, 371st Sust. Bde., commander wel- “The new Security Agreement pro- “O comed Boehner to Iraq and explained vides the Iraqis to have a right to pro- AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq -- Con- played a significant role his National Guard unit’s role in the tect their own sovereignty,” said Lt. gressman John Boehner of Ohio’s 8th in the success of the Ma- Operation Iraqi Freedom mission. Col. Jesse Green, brigade staff judge district and five other “Our brigade provides sustainment advocate. “Service members in duty members of Congress rine Corps mission and to all military forces in the West,” Tack status remain under the jurisdiction visited Anbar province supported our Army explained. “I provided a rollup of our of the United States military. Still, the here, Feb. 6. units effectively.” day-to-day responsibilities and suc- Government of Iraq is asserting itself The stop here was cesses. Our Soldiers have played a sig- and has undertaken a greater law en- part of a five-day nificant role in the success of the Ma- forcement role.” trip the House Mi- Col. Daniel Tack rine Corps mission and supported our With the 371st Sust. Bde., approxi- nority Leader and 371st Sust. Bde., commander Army units effectively.” mately 2,000 Soldiers are members of his congressional party as they make The Marines continue to oversee the the Ohio National Guard and resident their way across Iraq and Afghanistan. training of Iraqi Security Forces. The of Boehner’s Eighth Congressional Dis- The delegation received a first-hand goal of the mission is for the Iraqis to trict. This is Boehner’s fourth trip to operational assessment from the Ma- West. provide their own security and take the Southwest Asia area since the start rine Corps, Maj. Gen. John F. Kelly, Many Service members serves at Al care of their own affairs. The Marines of Operation Iraqi Freedom campaign. commander, Multi-National Forces- Asad. Boeher met with a group of Sol- and Soldiers have already seen Iraqi

10th Sustainment Brigade, Camp Taji http://www.taskforcemuleskinner.army.mil/mm.asp February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 9 Washington guardsmen in the lead at Al Asad

It is these same leaders, the staff ser- St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y geants in particular, who run most of Sp c . Ki y o s h i C. Fr e e ma n Expeditionary Times Staff the convoys, said Capt. Patrick D. Geh- ring, cavalry troop commander and na- tive of Tacoma, Wash. AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq – Since be- “Culturally there are some differenc- ginning their mission in es, but I think that the command sec- November, Washington tion has been very supportive,” Gehring National Guardsmen said, referring to his unit’s relationship Soldiers with A Troop, 1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry Regiment wait for a convoy brief- convoyed 9,088 miles, with the 548th Combat Sustainment ing to start at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 21. Although trained as cavalry scouts, the while ensuring the Support Battalion, an active duty unit Washington National Guard unit performs convoy escort missions for 548th Combat safe delivery of food, from Fort Drum, N.Y. Sustainment Support Brigade. fuel, water, vehicle The guardsmen faced many chal- parts, and other lenges when they began their deploy- more risk, to get out of our comfort smile. supplies to bases around Anbar prov- ment, such as familiarizing themselves zone,” Gehring said. “We’re letting peo- When asked to comment on the im- ince. on new vehicles and training new Sol- ple get a lot closer than we otherwise portance of their mission, Wise said, Once trained as a mechanized force diers to operate tactically, he said. would.” “That’s probably a question you should to gather information and conduct re- “I think we’re to the point now where However, he adds, Iraq’s security has ask the guys at [the bases] . . . If it connaissance, A Troop, 1st Squadron, the truck drivers that we escort have the improved to the point where the threat wasn’t for us, they wouldn’t have heat, 303rd Cavalry Regiment adapted to a same confidence in us that they had in no longer warrants the additional cau- they wouldn’t get letters from home, different mission as well as a different the unit before us,” he said. tion, and Coalition convoys no longer and they wouldn’t get food or water, mindset. This ability to adapt comes in handy, need to be escorted as before. supply, parts.” “That was the biggest transition,” given how convoy operations are con- Indeed, Gehring said most of his time “I think that we’re hugely important,” said 1st Sgt. Travis E. Wise, senior non- ducted in Iraq, where, according to is spent “dreaming up ways to make our he said. “If we weren’t here, then the commissioned officer, and a native of recent statistics released by Multi-Na- operations safer,” which he said is ac- fight wouldn’t be able to be sustained.” Stanwood, Wash. “But the guys adapted tional Forces-Iraq, nationwide attacks complished through a monthly safety Approximately 400,000 National well to it, and they realized what needed are at their lowest levels since August meeting. Guardsmen have been mobilized in to be done and got to work.” 2003. Nowadays, the most difficult part of support of operations Iraqi Freedom It helped, Wise continued, that most A greater emphasis has been placed any mission – which can last from a few and Enduring Freedom, according to of the leaders in the troop deployed to on sharing the road with Iraqis, and on hours to a couple days – is staying alert a congressional report. Currently, over Iraq before. On the previous deploy- more stringent rules of engagement, or being a driver, said Spc. Joseph D. 6,000 guardsmen are partnered with ment, doing the same mission, the Sol- both of which were in place even before Powell, a gunner for an armored scout the 3d Sustainment Command (Expe- diers exchanged their Bradley fighting the new security agreement went into vehicle. ditionary) escorting supply convoys vehicles – the workhorse of the cavalry effect. “ASVs are not built to sit in for more around Iraq to support Coalition opera- scouts – for escort vehicles. “It requires us to assume a little bit than a couple hours,” he said with a tions. Safety is the key to success in one company By 1s t Lt. An d r e w B. Ba d g l e y gathering all possible information and rect fire collateral damage by providing hand. As Soldiers and leaders, we must UPAR,Co. E, 949th BSB, 553rd intelligence for their particular mission. protection from shrapnel through con- ensure that we put safety first and risk CSSB, 10th SBDE Using that, they develop a composite risk crete barriers, and we decrease the time management planning into everything management worksheet with the input it takes to locate each Soldier by requir- that we do. from Soldiers in the convoy and ensure ing Soldiers to always move with a fellow CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – As the com- everyone at each level is aware of both Soldier. By practicing good personnel pany commander, safety the risks and controls used to mitigate accountability and immediate response is a word often heard on risk. rehearsals, we ensure that all Soldiers a daily basis. Although For example, one control used to miti- know what to do and where to report. violence against Coali- gate the threat of IEDs is for Soldiers to To mitigate vehicle accidents we en- tion forces is at an all study recent photographs and trigger de- sure that all Soldiers practice safe driv- Stressed? time low, our com- vices used on previous IED setups. This ing techniques, wear appropriate safety pany must ensure helps them identify IEDs outside the safe equipment such as helmets, and use every possible ac- zone. The composite risk management ground guides for parking and moving tion is taken to mitigate the risks we face worksheet is a tool the Army uses to help through crowded areas. One drawback Relax and when conducting operations outside the leaders identify each risk and implement is that Soldiers can become complacent safe zone. specific controls to lower the overall risk when they do these activities on a daily Echo Company, 949th Brigade Sup- associated with a task. basis. go see a port Battalion, 553rd Combat Sustain- When convoy commanders brief Sol- As a commander, complacency is one ment Support Battalion, 10th Sustain- diers on the current mission they identify of the biggest challenges seen on a daily ment Brigade, deployed here as a convoy all possible risks and implement controls basis. A day in the life of a convoy securi- movie. security company to the Baghdad area. to mitigate them. For example, if one ty company, a Soldier can be surprisingly The two most dangerous threats that risk is vehicle rollovers, that risk can be monotonous. He or she drives the same Soldiers of Co. E face are improvised mitigated by slowing the convoy speed in vehicle over the same route every day. explosive devices and vehicle rollovers. certain areas where the terrain is unfa- Commanders help them develop a sense Mitigating these risks starts hours and miliar. Slowing the convoy speed is the of confidence in their abilities without See page 21 for sometimes days prior to each mission. control that is implemented by leaders at instilling overconfidence that leads to ac- The convoy commander ensures all of the lowest level in our organization. cidents. their Soldiers have the required and nec- When Soldiers complete their mis- Soldiers live and work in a very dan- movie schedule essary personal protective equipment, sions and return to the safe zone, they gerous place, where horrible accidents their weapons are clean and function face a different set of safety hazards. The can happen daily. While a small percent- properly, and their vehicles adequately two most dangerous threats to Co. E Sol- age of these incidents are out of leaders prepared for the mission. Convoy com- diers on the camp are indirect fire and control, Soldiers at all levels can decrease manders mitigate the risk of IEDs by vehicular accidents. We mitigate indi- their severity by mitigating risks before- PAGE 10 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 Kansas Guard partners with Iraqi Trucking Co “Our goal is to see the business y g t r y s t al e i d y B S . C G. R grow as much as possible so they can x p e d i t i o n ar y i m e s t aff E T S keep the local economy growing,” said 1st. Lt. Andrew R. Wright, ITC officer CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE in charge, 287th Sust. Bde., and native ADDER, Iraq – Kansas National of Paola, Kan. Guardsmen are partner- Master Sgt. Richard Medina, non- ing with a local Iraqi commissioned officer in charge of ITC, trucking company to 287th Sust. Bde., and resident of Al- help build the Iraqi bion, Mich., said the primary goal of economy here over the partnership is to improve the Iraqi the next two years. economy, and a secondary goal is to The contract keep Soldiers safe. He said, ITC mis- with the Al Ghezy sions have kept 2,636 Soldiers off the trucking company, overseen since road and available for other missions. December by the 287th Sustainment “We are getting responsibility of Brigade from Wichita, Kan., allows Al moving more things and the FOBs Ghezy to deliver unescorted cargo to (forward operating base) are getting bases throughout southern Iraq. used to seeing locals on base,” said The contract is scheduled for review Asaad Sultan, an ITC project manager every six months to ensure the com- from Nasariyah, through an Iraqi in- pany is successful long after the 287th terpreter. Sust. Bde. has left Iraq. Wright said the brigade is teaching Al Ghezy basic con- U.S. Army photo by Master Sgt. Carl K. Mar voy operations secu- The Al-Ghezy Trucking Company employs one of the most modern hauling fleets in rity and safety stan- Iraq. Many of its flatbed haulers, seen here preparing to receive their consignments at Contingency Operating Base Adder’s Joint distribution Center, were built by Mer- dards, like keeping cedes of Germany. driver logs and doing after action reviews. The ITC has learned the cargo they carry. diers, we don’t say no.” to identify trends, “We make sure it (the cargo) arrives Medina said because of the work like road conditions in the same condition as it left,” Sultan ethic of the Iraqis the Army is looking and aggressors, so said. to expand to more contracts with Al they can take alter- Wright said the success of the part- Ghezy and other trucking companies nate routes to com- nership is due to the work ethic of the as well. plete the mission. ITC; Sultan has never missed a day of “Right now we are contracting 30 “The most impor- work since they began working togeth- trucks, 25 flatbeds and five heavy tant mission is safe- er last year. equipment trucks,” Medina said. “We ty,” Sultan said. “The “They are very hard workers,” want to double those numbers to in- Army doesn’t need Wright said. “They have never failed clude water and fuel tankers.” mistakes.” to get a mission done.” Sultan said the best thing about Since October, Al Sultan said his company will do working with the Army is the consis- U.S. Army photo by Master Sgt. Carl K. Mar Ghezy has completed whatever it takes to complete a mis- tency; the missions are always there. Al-Ghezy Trucking and General Contracting Company owner 114 missions, deliver- sion. He is a project manager but he He said the contracts continue to get Jameel Jabir discusses hauling schedules with 287th Sus- ing 864 containers of does everything, including loading bigger and run smoother. tainment Brigade IBIZ (Iraqi-Based Industrial Zone) Manager cargo with no dam- trucks, working in the convoy yard “It is a good experience working 1st Lt. Andrew Wright, ITC officer in charge, 287th Sust. Bde., age or pilferage. Sul- and driving. with the Army,” Sultan said. “We work and native of Paola, Kan. Jabir maintains a satellite office at the IBIZ complex and leases a large yard there to park a por- tan said his drivers “We do everything to get the job together to benefit both the business tion of his 300-plus trucks when they are idle. are very protective of done,” Sultan said. “We are like Sol- and the Army.” Iraqis, Americans cooperate for success at Qayarrah Pump Station ing the motor and pump to come out of who are interested in working with us, that the pump could be irreparably b y Maj . Je r o m e Kalam e n alignment, wearing on the shaft coupler and having the best interest of the facil- damaged if it continued to run in its cur- UPAR, 181s t Br i g a d e Supp o r t bushings. The installation was believed ity in mind has really made a difference rent condition. According to 181st BSB Ba t t a l i o n , 16t h Sus t . Bd e . to have been rectified about two weeks from the last [manager] who worked leaders, had the pump been irreparably ago, but has since come out of align- here,” said 1st Sgt. Dane Case, native of damaged, it would have cost the Army QAYARRAH, Iraq-- Seattle, Wash., ment again which required a mission to Everett, Wash., and first sergeant from $60,000 to replace. COB Q-West would Guardsmen from the remove the pump and return it to Con- the 181st BSB. also not have received water from that Water Management tingency Operating Base Q-West for re- The pump station manager ensures pump for at least 60 days. Section, 181st Brigade pairs. the pump is not damaged and keeps it in Removal of the pump will allow re- Support Battalion, 16th Since the 181st BSB deployed here, operational condition. pair and realignment of the mountings, Sustainment Brigade, the pump station manager has been re- “[The new manager] really knows and will prevent vibration from further executed a mission placed. The pump station is now man- what he’s doing,” said Chief Warrant Of- damaging the pump. to the Qayarrah aged by an Iraqi engineer who has some ficer Marty Sable, of Moxee, Wash., and The work staff at the Qayarrah Pump Pump Station by water works experience. He has been from the 181st BSB. “I need to listen to Station is comprised of Iraqis from the the Tigris River to remove a pump for instrumental in making sure the pump him more. He’s kept this place running Qayarrah area who work side-by-side repair here Feb. 16. house operation runs smoothly and and knows what to do to keep things with Soldiers and contractors to ensure The pump had been in place for only keeping the facility clean and neat. from breaking.” COB Q-West has a continuous supply of three months, but vibrations were caus- “Having the right people in place, The new manager advised the Army water. February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 11 Soldier’s Lifeline – Train to Save by helicopter. It is by far the quickest SOPs are written in order to prevent it seems. The majority of it is routine By 1s t Lt. Dam o n Fo g l e y way to reach advanced life support. In confusion when time is most critical. care. Sprained ankles, minor back UPAR, Echo Co., 949th BSB, certain instances, air medical evacua- All 68W military occupational spe- injuries, and flu-like symptoms are 553rd CSSB, 10th SBDE tion may not be available. cialties must undergo combat medic treated by the medics on a regular ba- Often times, bad weather, high vol- advanced skills training. During this sis. Most of the routine care offered by BAGHDAD, Iraq - You never know ume of requests, and sand storms can rigorous course, medics learn ad- the medics is taken care of at the com- when you may need ground all possibilities of air medical vanced combat lifesaving skills that pany level without having to evacuate one—a lifeline that is. evacuation. If air medical evacuation, serve them indefinitely. Soldiers at- the Soldier to a higher-level facility. Today’s Soldier-medic also known as dustoff, is not available, tached to the Texas Army National The medics are given standing orders is prepared for any type it is imperative that convoy command- Guard conduct their training at Camp by a physician or physician assistant of medical emergen- ers, truck commanders, and medics Bullis, Texas. They learn various ex- to administer certain intravenous and cy on the contem- are familiar with ground routes to the traction techniques under a combat over-the-counter drugs to Soldiers for porary battlefield. closest medical treatment facilities simulated atmosphere. Artillery fire various purposes. Through intense equipped to handle serious traumatic and small arms fire are simulated in A big responsibility that medics training, vigilance, and leadership, injuries. It is also imperative that the the distance as medics attempt to treat manage is the maintenance of im- current Army medics have proven to medic and his crew are familiar with casualties in a stressful environment. munization records. Flu and anthrax be the most effective in the history of the level of care that each facility has In today’s modern Army, the av- shots must be updated in the MED- wartime operations. to offer. In some instances it may ben- erage medic goes through months of PROS database on a regular basis. It is For the medics of Echo Company, efit the Soldier to pass up one medical training and is trained on all of the also the medics’ responsibility to con- 949th Brigade Support Battalion, cur- treatment facility for another that of- state-of-the-art equipment that the tinue their education in order to main- rently attached to the 553rd Combat fers a higher level of care. Army has to offer. The newest training tain their certification status through Sustainment Support Battalion, 10th During mass casualty exercises and aids such as the advanced life support the National Registry of Emergency Sustainment Brigade in Baghdad, in real life, it is the medic that will skill master 4000 simulate breathing, Medical Technicians. Between convoy Iraq, their training and skill are called treat and supervise the wounded war- heart sounds, talking, choking sounds, missions, medics train on an array of on daily. These medics provide rou- rior both in and outside the forward moaning and vomiting. It provides re- different topics related to emergency tine and emergency care for Soldiers of operating base. The medic is often re- alistic training for each medic. medicine. Some of these classes are the 553rd CSSB, and provide a lifeline sponsible for directing first respond- During convoy missions, the med- refresher classes on medical prob- when convoy missions are attacked by ers such as combat lifesavers or EMTs, ic is constantly alert and flexible to lems such as diabetic emergencies and the enemy. and pointing them to separate triage change. During pre-combat checks blunt force trauma. No matter the cir- Medics assigned to convoy secu- areas or casualty collection points. and pre-combat inspections, they cumstances, the medics of Co. E must rity companies are tasked with the The medic is intensely involved in the check all combat lifesaver bags, and be prepared for anything. responsibility of medical operations process of prioritizing and directing warrior aid and litter kits. All medical As Co. E continues to provide con- in relation to battle space movement. care to the appropriate casualties in bags are examined for readiness and voy security in and around Baghdad, The medic is the subject matter expert the most efficient manner possible. uniformity to ensure supplies can eas- the mission of the combat medic re- when it comes to emergency medical The senior medic in Co. E is Staff ily be identified in darkness, water, or mains crucial to mission success. Op- evacuation. Every route that is trav- Sgt. Matthew Golemon of Belton, any type of unfamiliar circumstance. erations in the current spectrum ex- elled by coalition force convoys has Texas. He spearheads all the medical Medics make on-the-spot adjustments pose Soldiers to the risk of traumatic distinct battle spaces with unique standard operating procedures for the if anything is out of place. injury, but the Co. E lifeline medics medical evacuation criteria. The pre- company, and devotes much planning Not all medical care that the med- mitigate that risk with superior train- ferred method of medical evacuation is and critical thinking to the way the ics of Co. E provide is as glorious as ing and combat experience. Iraqi Provincal Leaders enjoy unexpected Visit with the 287th Sust Bde commander speaking skills.” discussions about the upcoming na- as a joint effort between the 7th Sust. By Ma s t e r Sg t . Ca r l Ma r 287th Sust. Bde. Public Affairs “It was expected that Shaykh Hus- tional elections, how the school might Bde., CMO and the town of Al Batha. sain Rashad of the Al Fawaz tribe be used as a polling station and on the The 7th Sust. Bde., redeployed home would be at the school because the fa- needs of school itself. in December and was replaced by the CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE cility is located in his area of Dhi Qar "The school has four computers, 287th Sust. Bde. ADDER, Iraq – “It was a pleasant Province. However, Shaykh Rashad but we have no printers. The comput- The impromptu meeting between surprise for the shaykhs did not know that Col. Schmitt would ers are of little use without them. We the Iraqi leaders and Schmitt of the and our Colonel,” said be attending,” said Parker. also need more school supplies for all 287th Sust. Bde., was an unexpected 287th Sustainment Bri- “Shaykh Saleh Fahad Shershab of the students,” he said. opportunity for both parties. It pro- gade civil affairs opera- the Al Badur tribe or one of his staff Shaykh Rashad also pointed out vided a venue for them to strengthen tions sergeant Sgt. members was going to assist civil af- that during winter months the class- friendship and discuss mutual issues 1st Class Alexander fairs later in the day with a coat drop rooms become very cold because of in an informal setting. Parker. He spoke off, but him (Schmitt) being at the the school’s open court yard. “A wall As the Soldiers prepared to leave, about the unex- school was a complete surprise. Al placed in front of the hallway entranc- Schmitt said to the shaykhs, “I’m glad pected meeting between Col. Robert Batha Councilman Mohammed Al Ta- es would help reduce the wind and re- for our meeting today. I believe that Schmitt, commander of the 287th Sust. tia showing up was another complete duce the cold felt by our children,” he we’ve shown our commitment to one Bde., and three Iraqi provincal leaders surprise, although it made sense since said another to build a better Iraq and that while visiting Al Ashyabb school in the the school is in his district,” Parker Afterwards, Principal Saleh gave by working together it will happen town of Al Batha, Jan. 12. continues. his visitors a tour of the school and sooner rather than later.” “The Iraqi leaders themselves did “Everyone might have known some- pointed out its main features: a large Shaykh Saleh, speaking on behalf not know entirely that the others were thing about at least one other person playground, the open court dividing of the other Iraqi leaders, warmly re- going to be at the school too,” said being at the school, but no one knew the classrooms and a beautiful view plied, “Your support and visit to our Parker. about them all. So, that’s why it was of the surrounding countryside from school show that you love our people, “Col. Schmitt,” he said, “went on the a pleasant surprise for everyone,” said the school’s roof top. They then ob- and we are grateful for that love. When trip simply to view the first presenta- Parker. served the Coalition Soldiers reading you return to your camp and you meet tion of the “Read Iraq” program, an ef- The most pleasantly surprised per- children’s stories to students in two with your commanders and Soldiers, fort of the 287th Sustainment Brigade son was Al Ashyabb School Principal classrooms. I want you to tell them that we Iraqis civil military operations to help young Heyam Shakir Saleh. He invited the The school is a new facility, opened love all of you in return.” Iraqi students improve their English leaders into his office for informal for use in November 2008. It was built PAGE 12 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 Celebrating African American/ Black History Month at Balad

Editor’s Note: The essays are reprinted for the Essay writing contest winners in recognition of the African Ameri- 1 can/Black history month sponsored by the 3d ESC at Joint Base Balad, Feb. 19.

By Staff Sgt. Willie Moody, 332d Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron

The question has been asked about Dr. King pursued equal civil rights the identity of African American citi- treatment for all, it was a quest for zenship in the United States in one black citizenship. When Mrs. Rosa form or another since the introduc- Parks used her “quiet strength” that tion of Africans to the U.S mainland December of 1955, it was a quest for some 390 years ago. What part does black citizenship. When Benjamin O. “The Quest for questing play and determines the Davis Jr. endured years of the “silent position an African American might treatment” from his classmates at hold as a citizen of these United West Point, and went on to become States? I believe we are better able to the first commander to the famed Black Citizenship see what is meant by that quest when Tuskegee Airmen, it was a quest for we look at definition of citizenship. black citizenship. When Jesse Owens The Merriam-Webster dictionary earned a spot on the 1936 U.S Olym- defines “Citizenship”, as - a: mem- pic team and went to Berlin as a rep- in the Americas.” bership in a community, and - b: the resentative of a country that didn’t quality of an individual’s response yet value the impact of its black citi- to membership in a community. zens, it was a quest for black citizen- When we look at the first definition ship. And when a young man born in I believe we can agree the mem- Hawaii with a Mother from Kansas bership role of African Americans and a Father from Kenya was able to has taken on different forms since shatter societal stigmas and miscon- slaves were first brought to Virginia ceptions by reaching the highest seat in 1619. Through the turmoil of post of power in these United States, it Civil War re-construction, the topsy was a quest for black citizenship. turvey times of the “roaring 1920’s”, The African American quest for the violence, legislation and progress citizenship is not only defined by men of the civil rights 1960’s; finally, all and women of great stature, or de- the way up to present day. Time has pendent on monumental moments. seen the identity of that role have a The role of the African American per- metamorphosis into a truer form of taining to the condition of the quest citizenship. primarily relies on the everyday Af- When we look at the second defi- rican American citizen and the qual- nition, I believe a more complete ity of their response to being a part of definition of citizenship is able to that broader community which is our surface. Because a response is an ac- United States of America. tion, and the verb “quest” requires When does this quest end you an action on the part of the individ- might ask? In truth it doesn’t, but its ual seeking the desired result; in this metamorphosis is ever changing, and instance citizenship. Consequently ever improving because of the posi- quest is defined as a: the act or an in- tive individual acts of those seeking stance of seeking or pursuing some- its end. Each African American who thing; a search. When we are able to progresses our role in this broad com- see the definition, we are able to form munity; furthermore, anyone who an opinion that true citizenship is not takes full advantage of the opportu- U.S. Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour just a birthright; it requires some sort nities provided them because of citi- From left, Command Sgt. Maj. Willie C. Tennant, senior noncommissioned officer for the d3 Sustainment Command (Ex- of action by the individual. zenship “in word”, are then worthy of peditionary), Senior Airman Jadale J. Staten, 332nd Expeditionary Civil Engineers Squadron, Staff Sgt. Duane L. Van- dross, 332nd Expeditionary Communication Squadron, Staff Sgt. Willie Moody, 332nd Expeditionary Logistics Readiness In this spirit; moreover, when being named citizen “in truth”. Squadron, and Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, 3d ESC commanding general, pose for a photo during the Black History / African American History Observance Celebration Luncheon at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Feb. 19. Staten, Vandross, and Moody are the essay contest winners. February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 13

2 By Staff Sgt. Duane L. Vandross 332nd Expeditionary Communication Squadron

In President Obama’s Inaugural speech, re- ling times, the journey for equality and the quest King Jr. are only a few. From 1619, when Dutch garding the duties to our nation and ourselves, for equal citizenship was an undertone too wor- traders first brought African slaves to American and the difficult times ahead, he stated, “This is thy of justice, and a dream too vibrant to be sub- soil, until today with the Election of our 44th the price and the promise of citizenship. This is dued for African Americans. President of the United States, we can note the the source of our confidence — the knowledge The ratification of the Thirteenth Amend- extraordinary evolution in the citizenship of that God calls on us to shape an uncertain des- ment in 18652 officially ended slavery in United Black Americans. tiny. This is the meaning of our liberty and our States, but there was still little acknowledgment Long after the successes of our children, will creed — why men and women and children of of white and black Americans as equals. It would the legacy of African American culture be a part every race and every faith can join in celebra- take another century of strife, segregation, and of America’s livelihood. Americans who have tion across this magnificent mall, and why a man the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. faith in our Democracy are ashamed that racism whose father less than sixty years ago might not to bring to light the need for true equality of our and bigotry still remain prevalent in our society. have been served at a local restaurant can now nation’s citizens. The profound meaning of the For the pledge we make to our country, “One Na- stand before you to take a most sacred oath.”1 Declaration of Independence and its proclama- tion under God with Liberty and Justice for all.”4 A man whose father’s ancestors were subjected tion; “We hold these truths to be self evident, has never changed. Finally, with this intricacy to the same suffering as my own, amid one of that all men are created equal.”3 could never and many of our values alike, we as a people shall America’s most trying periods. Across the de- hold true while America remained segregated. continue to shape and take charge of our future. “The Quest for cades of this Nation, peace and war, depression Throughout the ages, African Americans would It is with honor, during this celebrated month I and prosperity, there are few stories as agoniz- continue to demonstrate resilience, and create a share with you in brevity, a piece of our history, ing, overwhelming, celebrated or triumphant as more tangible prospective to the term overcome. African American History. yesteryear’s own autobiography of Black Ameri- Through the buying and selling of human beings, Black Citizenship can History. rape of African American Slave woman, carnage Slavery is one of the more loathsome blemish- and lynching’s, separated families and Jim Crow es on the face of American culture, a chapter that laws regarding racial segregation into 1965, sev- NOTES: must never go untold when attempting to narrate eral distinguished African Americans have made 1. President Obama’s Inaugural Speech in the Americas.” this portion of our heritage. No one instance or significant contributions to overall American 2. Thirteenth Amendment event can render a thorough enough depiction of citizenship. Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, 3. Declaration of Independence the remarkable accomplishments or unrelenting Thurgood Marshall, Langston Hughes, Rosa 4. Pledge of Allegiance struggles of a Nations’ people. In such compel- Parks and the aforementioned Martin Luther

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour From left, Command Sgt. Maj. Willie C. Tennant, senior noncommissioned officer for the d3 Sustainment Command (Ex- peditionary), Senior Airman Jadale J. Staten, 332nd Expeditionary Civil Engineers Squadron, Staff Sgt. Duane L. Van- dross, 332nd Expeditionary Communication Squadron, Staff Sgt. Willie Moody, 332nd Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron, and Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, 3d ESC commanding general, pose for a photo during the Black History / African American History Observance Celebration Luncheon at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Feb. 19. Staten, Vandross, and Moody are the essay contest winners.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour Seguya James, center, and Syrus Sozzi, right, perform with fellow members of the Ugandan choir during the Black / African American History Month observance luncheon at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Feb. 19. PAGE 14 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 Six Guardsmen inducted into NCO Corps

St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y Headquarters Co., 81st Brigade Spe- Sg t . 1s t Cla s s Ki r s t e n Fr o e l i c h cial Troops Battalion, comprised of UPAR, 81st BSTB, 16th Sust. Bde Washington Guardsmen. The induction ceremony included the “Charge to the Noncommissioned CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE Officer” where the new NCOs accepted Q-WEST, Iraq -- Six new members of their new duties and responsibilities, the Noncommissioned and the reading of the NCO creed. officer Corps, were of- Being inducted into the NCO Corps ficially inducted during is a long-standing Army tradition. It a ceremony here, Jan. is a rite of passage as a Soldier moves 31. from the junior enlisted ranks to ser- Leaders inducted geant. For many, becoming a mem- Sgt. Christian Ga- ber of the NCO Corps is the single big- briel, Sgt. Chad gest thing that will happen during his Hollopeter, Sgt. Susie Lopez and Sgt. or her career. Paul Nollette, all from Headquarters The leaders included Command and Headquarters Co., 181st Brigade Sgt. Maj. James Spencer, command Support Battalion, a battalion com- sergeant major, 16th Sustainment prised of California and Washington Brigade; Command Sgt. Maj. Robert (From left to right) Sgt. Christian Gabriel, 181st Brigade Support Battalion; Sgt. Paul Nollette, 81st Army National Guardsmen; and Sgt. Lane, command sergeant major, 181st Brigade Special Troops Battalion; Sgt. Susie Lopez, 181st BSB; Sgt. Erin Hendrix, 81st BSTB; Sgt. Christian Harris, 81st BSTB; and Sgt. Chad Hollopeter, 181st BSB, show their framed copies of the Christian Harris and Sgt. Erin Hen- BSB; and Command Sgt. Maj. David NCO creed, after a noncommissioned officer induction ceremony Contingency Operating Base drix, both from Headquarters and Nunn, 81st BSTB. Q-West, Iraq, Jan. 31. 590th QM Co succeeds in mission St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y sponsible for providing support to JSS Istaqlaal continue to further their ca- sets the standard for SLCR Soldiers 2n d Lt. Mar i a Gaff Istaqlaal. This support includes laun- reers by preparing for the promotion within the company; their positive at- UPAR, 590th QM Co., dry services for more than 500 Sol- boards and completing correspon- titude and dedication to duty set the 398th CSSB, 10th Sust. Bde. diers assigned to the Multi-National dence courses. Their hard work and standard for all Soldiers across the Division-Baghdad that operates from sacrifice for their country is truly com- Army. CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq -- If cleanli- JSS Istaqlaal. This SLCR site opened mendable. ness is next to Godliness, last September when the Soldiers of The laundry facility at JSS Istaqlaal then the Soldiers of the the 590th Quartermaster Company 590th Quartermaster established a laundry facility and be- Company, 398th Com- gan operations within 24 hours. bat Sustainment The SLCR site is led by Sgt. Arman- Support Battalion, do Soriano from Chicago. His team 10th Sustainment consists of six SLCR Soldiers – Spc. Brigade are truly Jonathan Lawson, a York, Pa. native; angels of mercy. Spc. Kathleen Stumpner, a native of The shower, laundry, and clothing Orlando, Fla.; Spc. Jose Gomez, a repair specialists (SLCR) Soldier’s Oceanside, Calif. native; Spc. Philbert primary role is to provide shower and Fred, a Second Mesa, Ariz. native; Pfc. laundry services to the combat troops Karla Chim, a College Park, Ga. na- operating in their assigned area. SLCR tive; and Pfc. Robert Lovin, a native of specialists are often needed in remote Erie, Pa. Soriano’s team is extremely locations where there is little or no knowledgeable in their field and they civilian contractor support. Many of continue to serve the Soldiers of the these sites have very few or no ameni- JSS Istaqlaal with distinction. ties that are available to other Soldiers Despite working under difficult and located on the larger forward operat- dangerous circumstances, the Sol- ing bases. diers at JSS Istaqlaal have performed One of the sites supported by the at a high level and continue to provide 590th Quartermaster Company is full laundry support at all times. This Joint Security Station Istaqlaal, locat- service is not taken for granted by the ed northeast of Baghdad. 3rd Platoon, combat Soldiers in the field who truly 590th Quartermaster Company is led appreciate a clean uniform and a hot Pfc. Robert Lovin, an Erie, Pa. native, performs routine maintenance on the laundry advanced sys- by 2nd Lt. Maria Gaff, a native of Sara- shower. tem (LADS). Lovin is currently deployed with the 590th Quartermaster Company, 398th Combat nac, N.Y., and Sgt. 1st Class Terrance In addition to providing laundry Sustainment Support Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade in support of Multi-National Division Porter, a Boston native, and are re- services, the Soldiers located at JSS – Baghdad.

287th Sustainment Brigade, COB Adder http://www.287susbde.com/ February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 15 Limited movement window provides opportunity for additional Safety training

St o r y a n d Ph o t o s b y reinforce safety mea- 1s t Lt. Sc o t t De t l i n g sures often lost during UPAR, 371st Sust.Bde. Historian normal operations,” said Hinton. In addition to the AL ASAD, Iraq,-- Soldiers of the 371st training, a recovery Sustainment Brigade operation class was took advantage of a re- conducted with 1st cent limited movement Sqdn, 303rd Cav. (ground convoys in Regt. Soldiers and Iraq) order to focus contractors. All mem- on safety, Feb 1. bers of the recovery The brigade team successful recov- trained its Sol- ered a Mine-Resistant Staff Sgt. Jason Broyles from Co. B, 2nd Bn., 142nd Inf. Regt., demonstrates the proper handling to assemble the M240 machine gun diers on events during a safety day Ambush-Protected ve- across its command while the Govern- hicle with a Heavy Expanded Mobility and performed functions checks for the “The ASV is also a great vehicle to ment of Iraq held provincial elections. Tactical Truck - wrecker. During the M2 .50-cal and the M240 machine gun. practice CASEVAC [casualty evacu- The events included weapon clearing; training, contractor recovery drivers Often, these functions were performed ation] in,” said Dillon. “With such a tactics, techniques, and procedures; discussed the capabilities of their vari- in the confined areas of their MRAPs cramped area, the Soldiers had to use proper use and safety of green laser; ac- ous assets including recovering both and ASVs, so the training is immediate- teamwork to extract an injured squad cident avoidance; ground guiding and Armored Security Vehicles and MRAPs. ly useful to their work in convoys.” member from a disabled vehicle.” vehicle recovery. The contractor demonstrators picked The safety office team from the 371st up both vehicles and placed them on a Sust. Bde., visited their subordinate Heavy Equipment Transporter System battalions and observe the safety train- trailer. This was to simulate recovering ing. a badly damaged vehicle. Maj. Patrick Hinton, safety officer, While the safety stand down was 371st Sustainment Brigade, visited ongoing in Al Asad, Troop A, 1st Sqdn, the 1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry Regi- 303rd Cav. Regt. completed weapons ment. safety and practice casualty evacua- “This limited movement window tion. was a perfect opportunity to take time “Every Soldier should know his weap- for safety,” commented Hinton. “We on, but today everyone got a refresher were able to focus on those issues most on crew-served weapons,” said Sgt. Ma- prevalent in theater right now. jor William Dillon, brigade safety ser- “The soldiers were able to get some geant major. “Each Soldier practiced good training and leaders were able to loading and unloading, proper clearing

Staff Sgt. Brian Golonka from H Troop, 1st Sqdn, 303rd Cav. instructs other Soldiers through the proper procedures to a vehicle recovery process. PAGE 16 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 Transportation Soldiers train to save lives in combat b y 2n d Lt. scenario, Trevino and his saver certification course held hours. trained on how and when to Br a d l e y A. No w ack partner for the simulation from Jan. 5 - 8. From Dec. 23 to Jan. 29, apply these skills in a combat UPAR, 497t h Tra n s Co., lane laid down suppressive “Playing out scenarios like the 497th Trans. Co. and the environment. 30t h CSSB, 16t h Sus t . Bd e . fire, dragged the casualty to this really makes you think 407th Medical Detachment “Sometimes the best thing about what could happen worked together to train and you can do to save your buddy CONTINGENCY OPERAT- out there,” said Trevino after recertify 69 Soldiers from the is kill the enemy,” explained ING BASE Q-WEST, Iraq – finishing his lane. “I’m re- company as combat life-sav- senior instructor and medic In this training ally glad I would know, from ers. The class, normally a week Staff Sgt. Eddy Ellis, in his scenario, Spc. “It’s impor- training, what to do.” long, had to be compressed to lecture. Esteban Trevi- In another similar battle, three days to fit into the busy A Combat Life Saver is a no, gunner for tant for the raging a few yards away in the operational schedule of both Soldier whose primary role the 497th gravel courtyard of the 407th units. This was in response to is not that of a medic, and Trans- Soldiers to Medical Detachment head- a directive that all Soldiers go- Soldiers are taught that the portation quarters at COB Q-West, Sgt. ing “outside the wire” had to instinct to drop everything Company keep train- Raffinee Adams, squad leader, be CLS qualified. and tend to a casualty in the from Ft. Lewis, Wash., 30th 497th Trans. Co., swabbed the Medics from the detach- middle of a firefight will lead Combat Sustainment Support ing even forearm of her simulated ca- ment, who are attached to the to more casualties overall, El- Battalion, had only moments sualty with an alcohol pad and transportation company on lis said. to save the lives of his fellow while de- prepared to insert a not-sim- each convoy mission, taught In the opinion of the med- Soldiers. ulated 18-gauge needle-cathe- the course in tactical combat ics, having 100-percent of Sol- The initial blast had dis- ployed,” ter unit into his vein. Under casualty care (TC3). TC3 en- diers CLS-qualified augments abled the lead vehicle in the the scrutiny of the instruc- compasses advanced first aid the effectiveness of medics convoy. The convoy com- Sgt. Raffinee Adams tor and the weight of her full topics including opening and rather than replacing them. mander dismounted to direct 497th Trans. Co., combat load and body armor, managing a casualty’s airway, “It means a CLS Soldier the recovery, but an unseen Squad Leader Adams steadied her hand and controlling severe bleeding, can open airways, stop major secondary device detonated, made a perfect puncture on treating penetrating chest bleeding and control the oth- severing his left leg and in- her first try. trauma, and initiating a saline er factors that are the main flicting other wounds from “It’s important for the Sol- lock and intravenous infusion. causes of death before I get shrapnel. He was uncon- cover and began applying a diers to keep training even The training was both class- there and take over, because scious and losing blood fast. tourniquet to the amputated while deployed,” said Adams, room and hands-on. Each my vehicle might actually be To make matters worse, the leg. still wearing her outer tacti- Soldier administered an IV, a mile away,” said Spc. Paul convoy was now under small Fortunately this situation cal vest and latex gloves. She and no one escaped getting Macchi, medic, 407th Med. arms fire from the enemy. was only a test, the culminat- would be wearing that ar- stuck. Det. Faced with this nightmare ing event of the combat life mor again, on a mission in 16 CLS-qualified Soldiers are Father and Son serve together thing about the military and eryone he works for,” he said. St o r y a n d Ph o t o b y would read his Army manu- “That is why he is up for ser- Sg t . Cr y s t al G. Re i d y als and books that he kept at geant after only three years in Ex p e d i t i o n ar y Ti m e s St aff home. the Army.” “Especially, my criminal in- The son says they do not CONTIGENCY OPERATING vestigation division books,” he go out on convoys together to BASE ADDER, Iraq – Two Tex- said. “My son was always ex- avoid the appearance of favor- as guardsmen, a cited to learn about my job as itism, but he said it would be father and son, a CID investigator.” fun to go out on missions to- will be serv- Smith Jr. said he chose gether. ing in the same military police as his military They stay close by commit- unit togeth- occupational specialty because ting to a weekly dinner, wheth- er at a small he wanted to be in law enforce- er it’s at the dining facility or camp in ment like his dad. He said he the local restaurant. The el- southern still needs to catch up because der Smith said they get to talk Iraq for the next nine months. when his dad was his age, he about their week and stay con- Spc. Raul G. Smith Jr., a had already graduated from nected. Staff Sgt. Raul G. Smith Sr. poses with his son, Spc. Raul G. Smith Jr. on Con- gunner with Battery A, 3rd tingency Operating Base Adder, Iraq on Jan. 16. The father and son chose John Jay College of Criminal The younger Smith said he Battalion, 133rd Field Artillery to deploy together with the Texas National Guard Battery A, 3rd Battalion, Justice in New York with a de- learns a lot by being deployed Regiment from El Paso, Texas 133rd Field Artillery Regiment from El Paso, Texas. “I knew there would be gree in forensic psychology. with his father. had just returned from Iraq nothing better than to deploy with my dad,” the younger Smith said. The father said the admi- “I get to see the NCO mind- in June 2008 when he found ration and respect goes both set,” he said. “I can share with out his father, Staff Sgt. Raul Smith said. tions to serve in the military,” ways, and he is proud of the my dad what the lower enlisted G. Smith Sr., an assistant set Smith Jr. always knew what the younger Smith said. Soldier his son has become. is thinking as well.” commander with the 3rd Bn., he wanted to be when he grew As a child, Smith Jr. re- The younger Smith earned The elder Smith, who re- 133rd FA Regt., and native of up; he wanted to be just like members receiving pictures of the company, “Soldier of the signed his recruiting position the Republic of Panama, was his father. He joined the Army his dad in his Army uniform in Year” while deployed in Fallu- to deploy, said other parents deploying to Iraq late 2008. and chose a law enforcement Saudi Arabia during the 90’s. jah. His dad said he was proud would ask, “Would you let your Smith Jr. said he instantly vol- career following in the foot- “I remember wanting to when he received pictures of son join?” unteered to deploy with him. steps of his father. look like my dad in his uni- his son in Iraq standing with “Now, I can tell them yes, “I knew there would be “I think it’s in my blood to form, and here I am,” he said. Secretary of Defense Robert we went together,” he said. nothing better than to deploy fight and serve. It’s one of our The elder Smith said his son M. Gates. “We came here to do our duty with my dad,” the younger families most honored tradi- always wanted to know every- “I hear great things from ev- and it’s where we want to be.” February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 17 Iraqis, Sustainers partnership in High Regard the partnership program built of the container repair facility ent cultures,” said Capt. Jason program benefits everyone in- b y n d t n g e la o k e y 12 L . A R between the Iraqi population project in October 2008 as part Whitehorn, support operations volved. t h UPAR, 259 CSSB, and Coalition forces at Joint of an Iraqi-Based Industrial transportation officer in charge, “Not only are we saving mon- t h us t d e 304 S . B . Base Balad. Zone program initiative. The 259th CSSB, 304th Sustain- ey, we’re interacting on a per- JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – “We [Coalition forces] truly project provides several Iraqis ment Brigade. sonal level and creating jobs in Army Brig. Gen. appreciate what you are doing work, and teaching them viable The 259th CSSB Soldiers the process,” he said and adds, William N. here. Keep up the good work,” skills: welding, carpentry and works directly with Hashim and “this visit helps raise awareness Phillips, Joint Phillips expresses to Hashim, general repair. his staff, which is comprised of of the program and recognizes Contracting manager and owner of the More importantly, it pro- many Iraqis who travel over the partnership.” Command Miran Company. motes partnership and allows twenty-two miles every day for Phillips visited Joint Base for Multi- The container repair facility Soldiers here a chance to work work. Hashim said, “Most of Balad as part of his assessment N a t i o n a l project operates as the only one hand-in-hand with the Iraqi them leave around 4 a.m. or 5 of the Iraqi-Based Industrial Force-Iraq of its kind in Iraq. It saves over population. a.m. and do not return home un- Zone programs throughout visited the Iraqi-owned con- $1 million by repairing empty “This gives us an amaz- til after dark, but their families Iraq. With the success of this tainer repair facility here, Feb. shipping containers here rather ing opportunity to learn more are always excited to hear their particular initiative, he hopes to 5. than shipping them to Kuwait. about one another and then tell stories about the Soldiers.” adopt the same process in Af- He briefed the significance of The 259th CSSB took control our families about our differ- Whitehorn believes this ghanistan. Logisticians understand sharing the road to complete mission paign via civilian affairs publica- vehicle born improvised explo- b y 2n d Lt. Ka i l e y Vi lc h e s tions in news media. sive devices across Iraq have UPAR, 70t h Tra n s . Co., Lt. Col. Ronald Pacheco Jr., been on a downward trend in 16t h Sus t . Bd e . commander, 391st Combat Sus- occurrence, so I am okay with CONTINGENCY OPERATING tainment Support Battalion, the idea of sharing the road.” BASE SPEICHER, Iraq —Coali- considers the initiative to be a There are many varying per- tion forces in Iraq measure of success in our ef- spectives and concerns around finalized and forts with the Iraqi public, and the policy. A great deal of focus officially imple- although Soldiers may feel un- has been put behind educating mented a new easy about the new policy, he the force. Units have received a ‘Share the understands that this is part of number of briefings on the im- Road’ policy the process. portance of the objective and in January “We are preparing here to battle focus. 2009. This turn Iraq over to its people,” said Initially it was not very popu- is a ground breaking step, lean- Pacheco. lar among some Soldiers in 70th ing forward in stabilizing the There are a lot of specifics in Trans. Co. country and drawing down our how to implement the ‘Share the “I feel it puts Soldiers into U.S. Army courtesy photo military presence. Road’ initiative but it essentially harms-way,” said Staff Sgt. Col- Soldiers from Company A, 325th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Infantry Bri- gade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division provided a security escort for a Soldiers from 70th Transpor- come down to our convoys and an Roberts, platoon sergeant, shipment of four massive generators to a power plant in Samarra, Iraq, dur- tation Co., 391st Combat Sus- allowing the Iraqi civilians to 70th Trans. Co. “We still have ing an 8-day, 300-mile convoy Dec. 3 to Dec. 10, 2008. When brought online, tainment Support Battalion, 16th pass at will. an identified threat out there; the new generators will provide several more hours of electricity per day to Sustainment Brigade, based out Spc. Jonathon Patton, 70th overall it will make our convoys the 150,000 people in Samarra and thousands of other Iraqis in Salah ad-Din province. of Germany, have been work- Trans. Co., 391st CSSB, and Fort more vulnerable.” ing for months learning the ins Worth, Texas native, also knows The Lumberton, N.C., native around certain risks and haz- porting force of the Iraqi Secu- and outs of ‘Share the Road’ and the importance of the new pro- also said that he understands ards in order to reach our goals rity Forces. what it means for them. gram. that safely restoring government for a responsible exit out of the 70th Trans. Co. is currently While the Soldiers have been “This initiative is something back to Iraqis is the end-line ob- region. Sharing the road is one in the seventh month of its 15- refining standards for the new that is needed in order for our jective for Coalition forces in of the last steps in finishing the month deployment. The unit is operational climate, Iraqi’s have goals to be met,” said Patton. “I Iraq. transition from being the leader scheduled to redeploy to Man- been learning about the cam- understand that incidences with This requires negotiating in combat operations to a sup- nheim, Germany, Oct. 2009.

16th Sustainment Brigade “Knights” at COB Q-West http://www.16sustainment.army.mil/ PAGE 18 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 JBB Religious Service Schedule PROTESTANT Mon, Wed, Fri 1700 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) LITURGICAL Mon - Fri 1130 555th Eng. Bde. Bldg 7200 TRADITIONAL Sunday 1500 Gilbert Chapel (H-6) Sunday 0200 Air Force Hospital Chapel JEWISH SHABBAT SERVICES 0930 Provider Chapel SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Friday 1700 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) 1030 Freedom Chapel (West side) Saturday 0900 Provider Chapel Saturday 0930 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) 1100 Castle Heights (Bldg 4155) 1700 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) 1400 Air Force Hospital Chapel CHURCH OF CHRIST 1730 Gilbert Memorial Sunday 1530 Castle Heights (Bldg 4155) ISLAMIC PRAYER Chapel (H-6) Friday 1230 Provider Chapel 2000 Air Force Hospital Chapel LATTER DAY SAINTS (MORMON) Sunday 1300 Provider Chapel PAGAN/WICCAN FELLOWSHIP GOSPEL 1530 Freedom Chapel (West side) Thursday 1900 The Shack Sunday 1100 MWR East building 1900 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) Saturday 1900 The Shack 1200 Freedom Chapel (West side) 1230 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) ROMAN CATHOLIC MASS GREEK ORTHODOX 1900 Provider Chapel Saturday 1700 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) Sunday 0900 Provider Annex (Sacrament of Reconciliation Sat 1600 or by CONTEMPORARY appointment) For more information, call Sunday 0900 MWR East building 2000 Freedom Chapel(West side) Gilbert Chapel: 433-7703 1030 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) Sunday 0830 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) Provider Chapel: 433-2430 1400 Castle Heights (Bldg 4155) 1100 Provider Chapel Freedom Chapel: 443-6303 1900 Freedom Chapel (West side) 1100 Air Force Hospital Chapel AF Hospital Chapel: 443-2547/2546 Wednesday 2000 Gilbert Mem. Chapel (H-6) Thursday 1100 Air Force Hospital Chapel JB BALAD ACTIVITIES

INDOOR POOL 8-9 p.m. Thursday- 8 p.m. Power Abs: H6 RECREATION Sun., Wed., 7:30pm 6 on 6 volleyball Swim Lessons: Abs-Aerobics: Caribbean Night: Mon., Tue., Thu., - 8 CENTER 9-ball tourney: tourney: Mon., Wed.,- 6 p.m. Tue., Thu., 6-7 a.m., Friday- 8 p.m. p.m. Bingo: Monday- 8 p.m. Friday- 7 p.m. Tue., Thu., Sat.,- 5-6 p.m Chess & Dominoes Friday- 9 p.m. Sunday- 8 p.m. Ping-pong tourney: Aerobics: 6:30 p.m. Edge Weapons & Stick Tourney: CC Cross Fit: Texas Hold’em: Tuesday- 8 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, AquaTraining: Fighting Combative Friday- 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday- Mon., Fri.,- 2 p.m., Foosball tourney: Friday- 7 p.m. Tue.,Thu.,- 7:30 p.m., Training: Salsa Class: 10:30 p.m 8:30 p.m. Tuesday- 8 p.m. Body by Midgett Ton- 8:30 p.m. Tue., Thur., Sat.,- Saturday- 8:30 p.m. Cross Fit: 8-ball tourney: Jam Session: ing Class: 8-10 p.m. Poker: Mon., Wed., Fri.,- 5:45 Tuesday- 2 a.m., Tuesday- 7:30 p.m Tue., Thu., - 7 p.m. EAST FITNESS Saturday- 7:30 p.m. a.m., 7 a.m., 3 p.m., 8:30 p.m. 8-ball tourney: Dodge ball Game: CENTER EAST RECREATION 6 p.m. Ping-pong tourney: Wednesday- 8 p.m Tuesday- 7:30 p.m. Open Court Volley- CENTER H6 FITNESS CEN- Tue., Thu.,- 7 a.m., Tuesday- 8:30 p.m. Guitar Lessons: Furman’s Martial Arts: ball: 4-ball tourney: TER 3 p.m. Spades: Thursday- 7:30 p.m Mon., Wed., Sun.,- 1 Sunday- 6 p.m. Sunday- 8 p.m Spin: Sunday- 5:45 a.m., Wednesday- 2 a.m., Game tourney: p.m. Aerobics: 8-ball tourney: Sunday- 9 a.m. 7 a.m., 3 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Thursday- 1 p.m, 8 Gaston’s Self-Defense Mon., Wed., Fri.- Monday- 8 p.m Mon., Wed., Fri.,- 2 P90x: Salsa: p.m. Class: 5:30-6:30 a.m. Karaoke: a.m., 8 a.m. 2 p.m., 7 Monday- Saturday- Wednesday- 8:30 p.m. Enlisted Poker: Fri., Sat.- 7 p.m. Yoga Class: Monday- 8 p.m. p.m., 4:30 a.m., 4 p.m., 10 9-ball: Friday- 1 p.m., 8 p.m. Open court basketball: Mon., Fri.- 6-7 a.m. Swing Class: 9 p.m. p.m. Thursday- 2 a.m., Officer Poker: Thursday- 7 p.m. Step Aerobics: Tuesday- 8 p.m. Tue., Thu., -5:45 a.m., 12 a.m. 8:30 p.m. Saturday- 1 p.m., 8 Open court soccer: Mon., Wed., Fri.- Table Tennis: 9 a.m., 8:30 p.m. Soccer: Karaoke: p.m. Mon., Wed., - 7 p.m. 5:30 p.m. Tuesday- 8 p.m. Saturday- 9 a.m., 7 Tue., Thu.,- 8 p.m. Thursday- 8:30 p.m. Squat Competition: Zingano Brazilian Jui Conditioning Training 9-ball tourney: p.m. Yoga: Dominos: Saturday- 8 p.m. Jitsu: Class: Wednesday- 8 p.m. Boxing: Wednesday- 8 p.m. Saturday- 8:30 p.m. Tue., Thu.,- 8:30 p.m. Mon., Wed., Fri.- Dungeons & Dragons: Sunday- 4 p.m. MACP Level 1: Darts: WEST FITNESS 7:15- Thursday- 7:30 p.m. Tue., Thu.,- 2 p.m. Friday- 8 p.m. Saturday- 8:30 p.m. CENTER CIRCUIT GYM 8 p.m. Poetry Night: Boot Camp: 5 on 5 Basketball: WEST RECRE- 3 on 3 basketball Floor hockey: Brazilian Jui-Jitsu: Thursday-8 p.m. Sunday- 8:45 a.m Saturday- 8 p.m. ATION CENTER tourney: Mon., Wed., Fri.,– Mon., Wed., Fri.- 6-ball tourney: Tue.,Thu.,- 7 p.m. Green Bean Karaoke: Saturday- 7:30 p.m. 8-10 p.m February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 19 Sudoku This Week in History February 25 The objective is to fill Level: Very Hard • 1793 - George Washington holds the first Cabinet meeting as the 9×9 grid so that 4 1 President of the United States. each column, each row, February 26 and each of the nine 7 6 5 • 1870 - In New York City, the first pneumatic-subway opens. February 27 3×3 boxes contains the 2 • 1951 - The Twenty-second Amendment to the United States digits from 1 to 9 only Constitution, limiting Presidents to two terms, is ratified. one time each. 9 5 • 1991 - Gulf War: U.S. President George H. W. Bush announc- Last weeks answers es that “Kuwait is liberated”. 4 6 2 1 9 8 3 7 5 3 5 7 8 2 February 28 7 8 5 4 2 3 1 9 6 • 1998 - Kosovo War: Serbian police begin the offensive against the Kosovo Liberation Army in Kosovo. 9 1 3 5 7 6 8 4 2 1 3 5 4 8 7 3 2 6 1 9 March 1 2 7 9 6 4 1 5 8 3 7 • 1936 - The Hoover Dam is completed. 1 3 6 9 8 5 7 2 4 March 2 8 2 7 3 6 4 9 5 1 9 3 8 • 2002 - U.S. invasion of Afghanistan: Operation Anaconda be- 6 5 4 8 1 9 2 3 7 gins. 3 9 1 2 5 7 4 6 8 4 6 March 3 • 1960 - Elvis Presley returns home from Germany, after be- ing away on duty for 2 years. PVT. MURPHY’S LAW

Upcoming sports on AFN Wednesday 2/25/09 Cleveland State @ Butler, Live 8 p.m. AFN/xtra Penn State @ Ohio State, Live 3 a.m. AFN/sports Notre Dame @ Connecticut, Live 10 p.m. AFN/sports Anaheim Ducks @ Buffalo Sabres, Live 3 a.m. AFN/xtra Clemson @ Florida State, Live 10 p.m. AFN/prime atlantic Florida @ LSU, Live 5 a.m. AFN/sports Wake Forest @ Virginia, Live 10 p.m. AFN/xtra Texas A&M @ Nebraska, Live 5:30 a.m. AFN/xtra Pittsburgh @ Providence, Tape Delayed 11 a.m. AFN/sports Sunday 3/1/09 Florida State @ Boston College, Tape Delayed 1 p.m. AFN/ LSU @ Kentucky, Live 12 a.m. AFN/sports sports Texas @ Oklahoma State, Live 2 a.m. AFN/sports Portland Trail Blazers @ Houston Rockets, Tape Delayed 5 Auburn @ Mississippi State, Live 2 a.m. AFN/prime atlantic p.m. AFN/sports New York Knicks @ Miami Heat, Live 3:30 a.m. AFN/xtra NBA on NBATV Fan Night: Teams TBD * Game is selected Nebraska @ Kansas State, Live 4 a.m. AFN/prime atlantic by fan vote at NBA.com, Tape Delayed 9 p.m. AFN/sports UCLA @ California, Live 5 a.m. AFN/sports Charlotte Bobcats @ Los Angeles Clippers, Live 6:30 a.m. Thursday 2/26/09 AFN/xtra Connecticut @ Marquette, Live 3 p.m. AFN/sports Gonzaga @ San Diego, Tape Delayed 9 a.m. AFN/xtra San Jose Sharks @ Detroit Red Wings, Live 3:30 a.m. AFN/ Washington Capitals @ Boston Bruins, Tape Delayed 11 xtra a.m. AFN/xtra Duke @ Maryland, Live 5 a.m. AFN/sports Duke @ Virginia Tech, Tape Delayed 11 a.m. AFN/sports Charlotte Bobcats @ Sacramento Kings, Live 6:a.m. AFN/ Orlando Magic @ Philadelphia 76ers, Tape Delayed 1:30 xtra p.m. AFN/xtra Virginia Tech @ Clemson, Tape Delayed 11 a.m. AFN/ Oklahoma @ Texas Tech, Tape Delayed 4 p.m. AFN/xtra sports Buffalo @ Ohio, Live 8 p.m. AFN/prime atlantic Texas Tech @ Texas, Tape Delayed 1 p.m. AFN/sports Marquette @ Louisville, Live 8 p.m. AFN/xtra Detroit Pistons @ New Orleans Hornets, Tape Delayed 5 Detroit Pistons @ Boston Celtics, Live 9 p.m. AFN/sports p.m. AFN/sports Los Angeles Lakers @ Phoenix Suns, Live 11:30 p.m. AFN/ sports Friday 2/27/09 Cleveland Cavaliers @ Houston Rockets, Live 4 a.m. AFN/ Monday 3/2/09 sports Columbus Blue Jackets @ Vancouver Canucks, Live 4 a.m. Iraq according to Opet Phoenix Suns @ Los Angeles Lakers, Live 6:30 a.m. AFN/ AFN/prime atlantic sports San Antonio Spurs @ Portland Trail Blazers, Live 4 a.m. Minnesota @ Illinois, Tape Delayed 5 p.m. AFN/sports AFN/sports Phoenix Suns @ Los Angeles Lakers, Tape Delayed 9 p.m. Oregon St. @ Oregon, Live 6 a.m. AFN/xtra AFN/sports Philadelphia Flyers @ New Jersey Devils, Tape Delayed 8:30 a.m. AFN/xtra Saturday 2/28/09 Pittsburgh Penguins @ Dallas Stars, Tape Delayed 6 p.m. Detroit Pistons @ Orlando Magic, Live 3 a.m. AFN/sports AFN/xtra Anaheim Ducks @ Boston Bruins, Live 3 a.m. AFN/xtra Cleveland Cavaliers @ Atlanta Hawks, Tape Delayed 9 a.m. Phoenix Coyotes @ Nashville Predators, Live 4 a.m. AFN/ AFN/sports prime pacific Cleveland Cavaliers @ San Antonio Spurs, Live 5:30 a.m. Tuesday 3/3/09 AFN/sports Villanova @ Notre Dame, Live 3 a.m. AFN/sports Charlotte Bobcats @ Golden State Warriors, Live 6:30 a.m. Colorado Avalanche @ New York Islanders, Live 3 AFN/ AFN/xtra xtra Miami Heat @ Atlanta Hawks, Tape Delayed 11 a.m. AFN/ Baylor @ Texas, Live 5 a.m. AFN/sports sports San Antonio Spurs @ Los Angeles Clippers, Live 6:30 a.m. Los Angeles Lakers @ Denver Nuggets, Tape Delayed 3 AFN/xtra p.m. AFN/sports Kansas @ Oklahoma, Tape Delayed 1 p.m. AFN/sports Georgetown @ Villanova, Live 8 p.m. AFN/prime atlantic Cleveland Cavaliers @ Miami Heat, Tape Delayed 9 p.m. Georgia Tech @ North Carolina, Live 8 p.m. AFN/sports AFN/sports PAGE 20 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009

Happy Birthday!

Sgt. Crystal Reidy, 123rd MPAD, 3d ESC

To the best Mom we could ever ask for! Happy Birthday!!!

We love and miss you! Walter, Tristan, Corbin and Puppy.

Where do you read your “Caring for the Warfighter’s Soul” Expeditionary Times? Joint Base Balad Protestant Easter Schedule Ash Wednesday Service – Feb. 25 1900 - Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H6) d Good Friday Service – Apr. 10 For distribution, contact the 3 ESC 2100 - Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H6) PAO located throughout Iraq Easter Sunrise Service, Apr. 12 0600 - Holt Stadium

Joint Base Balad 318-483-4603 JBB Catholic Lent & Easter Schedule Ash Wednesday – 25 February COB Adder 318-833-1002 1130 - Provider Chapel 1700 - Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H6) Camp Taji 318-834-1281 2000 - Freedom Chapel Lenten Penance Services COB Q-West 318-827-6101 Friday, 19 March, 1900, Provider Chapel Tuesday, 31 March. 1900, Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H6) Al Asad Air Base 318-440-4103 Holy Thursday 1900 - Gilbert Memorial COB Speicher 318-849-2501 2000 – Freedom Chapel Good Friday 1130 - Provider Chapel e-mail:[email protected] 1900 – H6 Chapel 2000 - Freedom Chapel Easter Easter Vigil – 11 April 1900 - Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H6) Easter Sunday – 12 April 0830 - Gilbert Memorial Chapel (H6) 1100 – Provider Chapel 1100 – Hospital Chapel 2000 – Freedom Chapel

JBB Purim and Passover Purim: Service - 9 March 2009, 1700 Festival Dinner – 9 March 2009, 1800 Where: Gilbert Memorial Chapel, Multi-faith Room

Passover: First Night Seder - 8 April, 1600-2000 Second Night – 9 April, 1600-2000 DFAC-1, Audie Murphy Room, RSVP

For more information , call Gilbert Memorial Chapel: 443-7703 February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 21 Sustainer Challenge

Send your team photos

Are you participating in the 2009 Sustainer Challenge competition?

E-mail us two high resolution team photos with team information, to be published in the Expeditionary Times.

[email protected]

Members from the HHC, 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) trains for the upcoming Sustainer Challenge by participating in the Valentine’s Day 5K run at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Feb. 14. The Soldiers are (from left to right): Spc. Amanda Tucker, Maj. Mike Arnold, Master Sgt. Juan Dominguez, Spc. Andre Tacardon.

Su s t a i n e r Re e l Ti m e Th e a t e r Movie Times Wednesday, February 25 5 p.m. Friday the 13th Friday the 13th 8 p.m. The Unborn Against the advice of locals and Thursday, February 26 police, Clay scours the eerie woods surrounding Crystal Lake for his 5 p.m. The Unborn missing sister. But the rotting cabins 8 p.m. Friday the 13th of an abandoned summer camp are not the only things he finds. Hockey- Friday, February 27 masked killer Jason Voorhees lies in 2 p.m. Not Easily Broken wait for a chance to use his razor- 5 p.m. The Curious Case of sharp machete on Clay and the group of college students who have Benjamin Button come to the forest to party. 8:30 p.m. Fired Up Saturday, February 28 Live Concert Sunday, March 1 2 p.m. Fired Up The Unborn 5 p.m. Not Easily Broken Casey Beldon hated her mother 8 p.m. The Curious Case of for leaving her as a child. But Benjamin Button when inexplicable things start to happen, Casey begins to Monday, March 2 understand why she left. Plagued 5 p.m. Not Easily Broken by merciless dreams and a 8 p.m. Fired Up tortured ghost that haunts her Tuesday, March 3 waking hours, she must turn to the only spiritual advisor, Sendak, 5 p.m. The Curious Case of who can make it stop. Benjamin Button 8 p.m. Not Easily Broken (Schedule is Subject to Change) PAGE 22 February 25, 2009 Ph o t o s Ar o u n d Ir a q

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Eric Harris Iraqi Police basic trainees laugh during a demonstration of the capabilities of military work- ing dogs at the Diwaniyah Police Academy in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Feb. 9. The demonstration was conducted by U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

US Army photo by Spc. Kelly Anne Beck Two villagers look on as Soldiers from the 81st Brigade Special Troops Battalion visit Estella Village, Iraq during a humanitarian visit, Jan. 28.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. JoAnn S. Makinano Iraqi soldiers from 1st Battalion, 12th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi

Army Division, hand out toys to children during a hu- U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Ray K. Ragan manitarian aid mission in the Nabi Younis neighbor- Iraqi Soldiers work on a Soviet-made heavy truck at the Taji Wheel Level Three Maintenance hood of Mosul, Iraq, Feb. 11. facility on the Iraqi operated side of Camp Taji, Iraq on Feb. 12. February 25, 2009 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s PAGE 23 Ne w s a r o u n d Ir a q h o t o s r o u n d conducted a joint mission called Operation Auto- P A matic Pursuit II, to rid the town of several known Iraqi Medics Teach Life- house-borne IED’s which threaten people in the Saving Skills area. “We’re trying to clear out the (al Qaida in Iraq) FORWARD OPERATING BASE GARRY OWEN, Iraq cells,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Wayne La Clair, 2nd r a q — Thirteen of the Iraqi Army’s newest com- Bn., 8th FA Reg. “We hit another location during I bat medics graduated the Combat Life Sav- Operation Automatic Pursuit I, and we believe the er’s course here Feb. 4. insurgents who are left have moved into this town. The 38th Brigade, 10th Iraqi Army Divi- In order to remove the HBIED threats in the vil- sion, with assistance from 4th Brigade Combat Team, lage, IA cleared the entire village, going from house 1st Cavalry Div. Soldiers, taught the Iraqi troops the to house to ensure the villagers were moved to a safe same skills most American Soldiers learn while location. preparing for deployments. “We’ve had a lot of trouble getting clearance to “Thank you, my friends,” said Chief Sgt. Maj. both of these locations,” La Clair stated. “It has lit- Haider to the U.S. Soldiers. “I’m ready to work erally taken several months, so we’re going to go with you any time any place.” ahead and blow these two sites so they are no longer Haider, an Iraqi CLS instructor, was thankful a threat to the local people. because the course marked the first time the class was “We have several joint forces working togeth- taught by Iraqis. h a v e er on this mission,” La Clair said. “It is a pretty Sgt. Wa’il Zahir Naji, a combat medic from the 38th complet- complicated mission because we have guys on IA Bde., showed his students the basic combat care ed over 16 the ground and guys in the air for support. techniques of medical care-under fire, casualty evacua- education proj- When U.S. forces came here in 2007, literally tion, clearing airways and controlling bleeding. ects at a cost of over some of these towns were completely rigged The graduates learned how to respond to many of $2,500,000.” HBIEDs. Sometimes there would be ten or the injuries they could encounter in combat, while their During the celebration, 20 structures, and each one of them would be American counterparts stood by to field questions. students from each age group at rigged with IEDs.” Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regi- the Al Ghasacena School performed short skits and After blowing the two sites the U.S. Navy Ex- ment provided stretchers and gauze, but Haider and dances. plosive Ordnance Disposal, Mobile Unit 1, checked Wa’il, who had been standout students in a previous “It is wonderful to receive appreciation from the each location and cleared them to ensure no more CLS course, brought their own expertise to share with populace for a job well done. This celebration was munitions remained in the area. their fellow countrymen. a very fun and entertaining gesture of that Iraqi ap- “Until now, this village has been a very danger- The 2nd Bat., 7th Cav. Regt. Soldiers have trained preciation,” said Capt. Andrew Besser, the civil mili- ous village,” said Staff Col. Alaa’, commander, 3rd more than 75 of the Iraqis in combat life-saver proce- tary operations officer of Task Force 1-35 Armor. Bn., 18th Bde., IA. “As we went through here, the dures since the brigade deployed to southern Iraq in The Al Ghasacena School located in Jurf Nadaf people asked us to stay and to provide security for June 2008. West is historically set on a sectarian fault line but their village.” The latest course was significant because this time now enjoys relative peace and cooperation. In order to facilitate the safe keeping of the Amu- there were Iraqi instructors, and the students didn’t “This project is successful because of the gains in gaten, Alaa’ said IA will maintain a strong presence have to rely on an interpreter to translate from English security that have been accomplished over the past in the village by constructing a new headquarters to Arabic. six months by [Coalition forces] and the National there and setting up various check points leading up “The new roles were a sign of progress,” said Sgt. 1st Police,” Razzaq said. “God willing, the peace will to the village. Class Jamie Farmer, a native of Eden, N.C., assigned to continue: We will continue to rebuild Iraq, and our “There has been no IA presence in this area,” Alaa’ the 2nd Bat., 7th Cav. Regt. “The goal is to leave this children will enjoy a safe, prosperous future.” said. “We held a meeting with the local people and country with a unit capable of sustaining their own have decided to keep IA troops here and they have medical training.” agreed to help us by giving us information. With IA remaining in the area, there will be no more terror- Ghost town receives new ism around.” Refurbished school opens for After receiving an all clear sign from Navy EOD, students in Jurf Nadaf life some residents began to return to their homes. With IA remaining in the area the people may begin to BAGHDAD – Members from the Jurf Nadaf com- TIKRIT, Iraq – There are no children playing out- feel safe again. munity and Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, side, no animals, no clothing lines hung or 35th Armor Regiment, Multi-National Di- even a whisper of voices to acknowledge vision - Baghdad met Feb. 12 for a ribbon any sign of life in Amugaten. There is only Coalition detainee cutting ceremony at the Al Ghasacena Pri- the sound of the whistling wind blowing mary School. clouds of dust and dead wood brush down population drops to about The ceremony marked the competition of a major the empty streets. Amugaten almost seems like a refurbishment to the school. ghost town. 14,500 Teachers and staff of the Al Ghasacena School But there is a reason for the stillness; the village is held the celebration to emphasize the reconstruc- plagued with improvised explosive devices. Sprayed BAGHDAD — Multi-National Force-Iraq and the tion gains in the area. The newly refurbished school on the side of a wall in white paint lettering, both in Government of Iraq reached another mile- provides an improved educational environment for Arabic and in English, “bombs inside” sends a clear stone Feb. 14 when the total population of children in the area. With funding from the Com- message to anyone passing through the village of detainees in Coalition custody dropped to mander’s Emergency Relief Program, the project Amugaten. about 14,500. included the addition of nine new classrooms and No longer wanting to remain in the shadows of This month, Task Force 134 Detainee Operations construction of a new restroom facility. impending IED threats, the people are starting to began releasing an average 50 detainees a day in ac- The ceremony included student performances take a stand and want to bring life back into their cordance with the Security Agreement. The signed and comments from Nahia Council members in- community. Amugaten is slowly becoming a safer agreement between the U.S. and the GOI requires cluding Abdul Razzaq, councilman and education place to live, thanks to the joint efforts of 3rd and 4th all detainees to be released in a safe and orderly committee chairman for Jisr Diyala. Battalion, 18th Iraqi Army Brigade, in conjunction manner or transferred to Iraqi custody pursuant to “Since the ’Iron Knights’ began their deployment in with 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st a judicial order. the Jisr Diyala Nahia in April 2008, they have worked Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Divi- Those being released this month represent the hard to improve the quality of education received by sion, Multi-National Division – North. first group of case files that were reviewed by Iraqi the students in the area,” Abdul said. “In total they By request of village residents, IA and U.S. Forces authorities under the Security Agreement. PAGE 24 Ex p e d i t i o n a r y Ti m e s February 25, 2009 S ustaining the Line

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour Sgt. Kellyn L. Furgiuele and Pfc. Christina R. Disano won the 3d Sustaiment Command (Expeditionary) Noncommissioned officer and Soldier of the Quarter board (second quarter) held at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Friday. Furgiuele, native of Fresno, Calif. and convoy support center NCO, 372nd Inland Cargo Transport Com- pany, 371st Sustainment Brigade and Disano, a native of Brattle- boro, Vt., and motor transport operator with the 233rd Transpor- tation Company, 16th Sust. Bde., competed against eight other Soldiers representing the five sustainment brigade from thed 3 ESC. “You represent the best of the best,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Willie C. Tennant Sr., 3d ESC command sergeant major.

Spc. Thomas B. Beloat from the Texas Army National Guard 3rd Battalion, 133rd Field Artillery, a native of Santa Ana, Texas welds a shade on the gunners turret to protect Soldiers from the hot Iraqi sun at Contingency Operating Base Adder on Jan. 17.

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Crystal Reidy

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Kristen Froelich Eleven Soldiers from the 81st Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, to include Lt. Col. Ken Garrison, commander, 81st BSTB, and Command Sgt. Maj. David Nunn, command ser- geant major, 81st BSTB, shaved their heads in support of Karl Froelich, a former member of the unit who was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, at Contingency Operating Base Q-West, Feb. 8. Froelich’s son, Sgt. Beau Froelich, and sister, Sgt. 1st Class Kristen Froelich, are members of the unit. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Keith M. Anderson Sgt. James Languirand, paralegal non-commissioned officer, HHC, 18th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, re- assembles his M16 at the 16th Sust. Bde. Warrior Leader of the Quarter board Jan. 20 at Contingency Operating Base Q-West, Iraq. Languirand, formerly a British citizen, became an American citizen Sept. 1, 2008, at Joint Base Balad.