Iraqi government takes over former FOB Danger, page 8

Vol. 3, No. 46 , Dec. 2, 2005

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. James L. Harper Jr. Army Spc. Kyle Shelton kneels next to a wall as he provides security for his fellow soldiers during a search in Mosul. Shelton is attached to CompanyC , 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team. 3rd ACR troopers receive valor medals

Story by Sgt. 1st Class Donald Sparks “Sometime today on television, a sports announcer will tion team conducted a rescue mission, under direct enemy 3rd U.S. Cavalry talk about the hero of a football game,” Vines said before a fire, to evacuate two seriously injured pilots from a downed formation of nearly 150 3rd ACR troopers. “Well these OH-58D Kiowa Warrior aircraft in the city of Tal Afar. Thanksgiving Day for several troopers of the 3rd Armored Soldiers standing before me are the true heroes of our In less than seven minutes, the crew of Smuggler 62, lifted Cavalry Regiment included turkey, dressing, sweet potato pie nation.” off under night vision goggle conditions. Their aircraft and medals for valor. Capt. Daniel Anderson, Chief Warrant Officer Milton received small arms fire to the rotor blades and inside the Lt. Gen. John R. Vines, who commands the Multinational Walker, Sgt. Jerome Shai and Sgt. Kevin Doyle were pinned pilot and crew compartment. Corps Iraq, paid a visit to Forward Operating Base Sykes to with the Air Medal with Valor for their heroic actions on Shai, from Gambrills, Md., was the first of the crew to personally commend the troopers for their acts of heroism Aug. 29. identify and report the small arms fire and the location of the and to thank the troopers of the regiment for their sacrifices Assigned to 1159th Medical Company (Air Ambulance), firers. Shai rapidly assessed the aircraft for damage and in the war against terrorism. 36th Medical Evacuation Battalion, the air medical evacua- See VALOR, Page 2 Page 2 Scimitar Dec. 2, 2005 Arabic linguist aids in searching females Lewis added. Story and photo by Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Mills Gragg said she’s an adrenaline junky and was excited to go on these missions. She also 1st Brigade Combat Team said she doesn’t like to sit on the LSA, letting her language skills rot. “Not many females get the opportunity to go out on raids,” said Gragg. n spring 2005, early on in their deployment, Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry, The female search teams typically go out in pairs with an infantry platoon, one female attached to 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, based near Balad, were Soldier searching while the other pulls security, said Gragg. The missions they go on Ifaced with an almost insurmountable obstacle. They needed to search an Iraqi female can vary from all day long patrols during elections to participating in cordon and who had been acting suspicious, and they were all male. searches, she said. Culturally it would have caused problems with the woman and her family if “We’ve gone on raids to search the females set aside in the houses,” the infantrymen had searched her. On top of that, she spoke only Arabic and said Gragg. they spoke only English. Gragg’s road to being a linguist for the Army was not a typical one. As For help they turned to the 3rd Forward Support Battalion, 1st BCT, at nearby a special education teacher at Arrowhead Elementary School in Glendale, Logistic Support Area Anaconda, and the 3rd FSB turned to Sgt. Michelle Gragg. Ariz., Gragg was hoping to join a government agency. With that goal, Gragg, the only female Arabic linguist in the BCT, said she was glad to help. Gragg said she did some research and found the best way to get a job was “I’m a crypto-linguist, but I work as an intelligence analyst,” said Gragg. As to be proficient in a foreign language. The best way to become proficient an intelligence analyst Gragg said she was losing much of her language skills. in a foreign language was to join the Army. When asked to go out on a combat mission with the infantry to help search a Army linguists don’t get to choose the language. They are placed. female Iraqi, she jumped at the chance. “It was the first opportunity to get out- “I was hoping for Arabic,” Gragg said, and she got it. “That was luck of side of the wire and actually speak to some of the local nationals,” said Gragg. the draw.” What started as a temporary fix to a seemingly temporary problem has Unfortunately, the only experience Gragg had in a foreign language was evolved. 3rd FSB quickly understood the importance of having female search the required two years of Spanish in her high school. teams that the infantry units could call upon during special circumstances. “The majority of people in the class had a proficiency in a language After that initial mission, a military police Soldier was brought in and con- before the class,” Gragg said. “I wouldn’t say it was a struggle, but it was ducted training for more than 25 3rd FSB female Soldiers who volunteered to very intense.” help search Iraqi females. With a lot of studying, practice and hard work, Gragg made to make it “I love it,” said Gragg. “Some of the other females were skeptical at first.” Sgt. Michelle Gragg through the Arabic language course. Soon, though, they began to fully understand the importance of their mission, That type of attitude is typical of Gragg, said Lewis. said Gragg. “She never complains and she always puts mission first by actually volunteering for mis- Since that first mission, Gragg has gone on almost 15 missions and 3rd FSB has realized sions outside the wire,” said Lewis. “She’s eager to make a difference by using the Arabic the importance of having a Soldier like her. language she learned in (Advanced Individual Training).” “Sergeant Gragg is a female Soldier that has expanded the boundaries by going out and Lewis describes Gragg as a strong, motivated Soldier. “She sets an example for our battal- becoming an asset to the infantrymen on the front lines,” said Capt. Casey Lewis, civil ion and all Soldiers when she goes out with the combat arms battalions without complaint.” military affairs officer, 3rd FSB. “She has allowed the 3rd FSB to help the combat arms When asked about the danger of the missions, Gragg simply shrugs and smiles. “I have no battalions in other ways that don’t necessarily fall into a forward support battalion lane,” fear of anything,” said Gragg. “I’d go infantry if they’d let me.”

VALOR Confidant of al-Zarqawi dead, says relative from Page 1 BAGHDAD — A close family member as well as with Zarqawi frequently; served as a messenger and reported to the pilot commander, Anderson, that the aircraft could con- Coalition sources said earlier this week that a gatekeep- gatekeeper for Zarqawi; screened all messages and tinue the mission. er and confidant of Abu Mu’sab al-Zarqawi, Bilal requests for meetings with Zarqawi; was one of Anderson, from Sacramento, Calif., and Walker, from Bel Air, Md., Mahmud Awad Shebah, aka Abu Ubaydah, who report- Zarqawi’s most trusted associates; provided Zarqawi immediately used emergency procedures to avoid the continuing vol- edly met weekly with the leader of al-Qaeda in Iraq, is with safe house locations; and used intimidation and ley of fire from the ground. dead. death threats to gain the cooperation of the Iraqi people Concerned for the pilots on the ground, the men of Smuggler 62 Abu Ubaydah was reportedly killed Oct. 14 when to support al Qaeda in Iraq terrorist activity. continued to fly toward the downed aircraft. Coalition Forces raided several suspected terrorist hide- During the course of the raids, several weapons After exiting the aircraft, Doyle, from Peabody, Mass., began outs in the Albu Ubayd neighborhood north of Ramadi. caches containing mortar rounds, small arms and searching for the casualties. He identified two Soldiers and ran to Although intelligence analysts assessed Abu Ubaydah ammunition, were found and destroyed. Mortar rounds them. was killed during the mid-October raids, they could not were also emplaced along the road leading to the safe All three men came under immediate enemy fire. While the two determine his death with certainty at that time. houses, serving as improvised explosive devices against Soldiers took cover and returned fire, Doyle ran across open ground In late November, Coalition Forces received informa- incoming vehicle or foot traffic. The forces were to the injured Kiowa pilots, who were in a Bradley fighting vehicle. tion from knowledgeable sources and a close family engaged by small-arms fire upon their arrival to the sus- “The bravery and the courage of these aircrew members of the member of Abu Ubaydah claiming independently that pected terrorist location and immediately returned fire. 1159th Air Medevac exemplifies what is good about Army Aviation Zarqawi’s confidant and gatekeeper was killed as a Combining the ground attack with the use of close-air and the efforts of our troopers here in Iraq,” said Maj. John Scott, result of the Oct. 14 raids. support, the terrorists’ hideout locations were destroyed. commander, Longknife Squadron, 3rd ACR. “I’m extremely proud Detained members of al-Qaeda claim Abu Ubaydah No Coalition forces were injured or killed during the of them.” served as an “executive secretary” for Zarqawi; met raids.

MNF-I Commanding General Editor...... Sgt. Jeffrey M. Lowry Gen. George W. Casey Jr. [email protected] Scimitar welcomes columns, MNF-I PAO Assistant Editor...... Spc. Richard L. Rzepka commentaries, articles and letters from Col. Dewey G. Ford [email protected] readers. Send submissions to Combined Press Information Center Director Staff...... Spc. David J. Claffey [email protected] Lt. Col. Barry A. Johnson [email protected] [email protected] We reserve the right to edit The Scimitar is an authorized publication for members of the Command Information Chief for propriety, clarity and space. Department of Defense. Contents are not the official views of the Capt. Bradford E. Leighton U.S. Government or DoD. [email protected] The editorial content is the responsibility of the Public Affairs The Scimitar can also be viewed on the Command Information NCOIC Office of the Multi-National Force - Iraq. Stars and Stripes news- Web at http://www.mnf-iraq.com/ Sgt. Jeffrey M. Lowry paper is not affiliated with MNF-I and acts only as a distributing publications_theater.htm [email protected] source for the Scimitar. Questions and comments should be direct- ed to the editor at [email protected]. Dec. 2, 2005 Scimitar Page 3

PERSPECTIVES ’s many palaces: Legacies of a warped perception when he would show, but if they weren’t ready for him when were able to get near “their” palace. Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Mills he walked in the front door, they would pay dearly. Throughout most of the buildings are images of togetherness, 1st Brigade Combat Team According to the engineers, he did have a couple of favorite and teamwork. spots on Danger, one of them the so-called “Floating Palace” On one building, “Great Victory Palace” along the , are t never ceases to amaze me how important perception on the Tigris. It’s right on the water and he could sit on the scenes of Saddam’s “great victories.” Included is a scene, was to Saddam Hussein and the other members of his “front porch” and dangle his feet in the river. etched in the stone, of an Iraqi soldier with his arm around a IBa’ath Party. One of the palaces, the “Water Palace,” was built to his Kuwaiti. In the background are the distinctive Kuwaiti Towers Take for instance Forward Operating Base Danger, one exacting standards and he slept in it once. Then he said he from Kuwait City. of Saddam Hussein’s palace complexes in . It’s all didn’t like it, and never returned. Togetherness and teamwork - that’s why Iraq invaded about perception. The huge palace that housed 42nd Infantry Division Kuwait, right? There are about 136 buildings on FOB Danger, many of Headquarters was used for conferences, I was told. It was start- Saddam’s palaces are an obvious example of bending percep- which would be considered palatial. On Nov. 22, the United ed right after Desert Storm, and finished in 1999. tions to suit your needs. States handed Danger over to the I asked how many times it was On a much smaller scale I guess we all build our own little Iraqis. Notice I don’t say “back to the used for its purpose. I was told it was “Saddam’s palaces” now and again. Iraqis.” used maybe once a year between No one wants to be seen as something they aren’t, and The Iraqis didn’t own them before. 1999 and 2003. there are plenty of us who don’t want people to realize Saddam did. Yet another palace, the one that what we really are. As you walk around Danger, or any housed the division commander, com- Instead of changing perceptions, maybe it’s a good idea to of the massive palace complexes in mand sergeant major, and other staff, change how you do things. Iraq, it’s easy to see the great irony in was never used. It took nine years to If you catch yourself building one of those palaces, you their existence. build, I was told, and no one ever might want to think about Saddam Hussein. They are monuments to one man, stayed in it until we took it over. Eventually someone’s going to drag you up out of your Saddam Hussein. They glorify his life So what was the perception he was hidey-hole and out into the light. It won’t be pretty. and times. In just about every design trying to get across? What was the element, his initials are either perception he was trying to squash? engraved or printed. Sometimes his Saddam’s palaces are the opposite full name is used to create a design. of reality in every way. They are I was lucky enough to take a pre- grand, larger than life, and meant to ScimitScimitarar PulsePulse handover tour of FOB Danger with represent him. They were created as two Iraqi engineers who worked on monuments to his legacy. Do you think the transfer of authority to the palaces for Saddam. They knew He wanted people to perceive that the Iraqi government is going well? every detail you would be curious his rule was as glorious, as incredi- about - from how the places are venti- ble, and as outlandishly grand, as “With a little more effort the trans- lated to which room Saddam slept in those palaces. fer will work well.” and for how many nights. He also wanted people to think I was told each of the large palatial that he was building these monu- Spc. Sandra Vazquez buildings were manned full time by ments to them. 918 MP Company crews of cleaners, cooks and butlers, At least one of them, the confer- Camp Speicher who kept the buildings ready for use U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Mills ence palace that was division head- 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The “Water Palace” stairway in former quaters, was dedicated to the peo- They were prepared, I was told, for FOB Danger. Saddam is said to have ple of Iraq, I was told. Of course, Saddam’s arrival. They didn’t know spent only one night in this palace. not one of those people of Iraq “Iraqi police have started to take over some patrolling areas in Bayji from us. An Army evolving ... Staff Sgt. Michael Lee 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry Camp Speicher

“It's going pretty well. They need more responsibility and a little more training and they'll be fine.

Pfc. Sidney Adams Headquaters Company, 501st Sustainment Brigade Camp Speicher

“They're making progress. They're making an effort to run their own country. It will take a little time, but they will get the mission accomplished in the future.”

Staff Sgt. David Jones 501st Sustainment Brigade Camp Speicher

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Gul A. Alisan Thanks to Staff Sgt. Mike Winters and Spc. Lee Elder of An 1st Company, 3rd Battalion,1st Brigade 5th Division Soldier stands guard on his truck 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment for this week’s during a presence patrol of Al Hizam village, Diyala Province. Scimitar Pulse photos. Page 4 Scimitar Dec. 2, 2005 Police station upgrades instill pride

Story by Denise Calabria U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

BAGHDAD — Two recently reno- vated, Iraqi police stations provide more than 250 Iraqi police a safer vantage point from which to serve and protect Najaf citizens, and for the first time in their careers, the means to do so with pride. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division follows a two- pronged strategy in carrying out the Iraqi reconstruction. GRD is working large-scale capital projects such as power plants, water treatment plants, and oil infrastructure facilities. These endeavors are expensive, take longer to build, and often are not seen by many Iraqis. However, the servicemembers, Army civilians and Iraqi national employees of the GRD also are work- ing small-scale projects such as schools, clinics, police stations, local power and water distribution facilities

that are much less expensive to build, U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Raymond Piper but more visible to the Iraqi people. Civilian food specialists prepare the 750 pounds of dressing that was served during the Thanksgiving meal at FOB Prosperity. On a recent inspection in Najaf, Col. Richard Stevens, GRD deputy commander, toured the two police stations and met with police officers as well. Cooks serve thousands Stevens viewed the new guard shacks and new bathrooms and Troops toast turkey, Thanksgiving Day treats witnessed the pride in the faces of the police. 3,000 miles from home. within which the Soldiers were for what they do every day,” This station is a great example of Story by Staff Sgt. Starting at 1 a.m., the Soldiers eating, ice sculptures and other said Clyde Randolph, dining Iraqi forces having the ability to trans- Raymond Piper and civilians who work in the decorations — adorned the facil- facility supervisor. fer security responsibilities to civil 4th Brigade Combat Team dining facility began to give it a ity. A Soldier dressed as a pil- Cooks prepared 2,500 pounds authorities, said Stevens. new look. grim and an interpreter dressed of turkey, 1,200 pounds of The police chief, Maj. Hakim FORWARD OPERATING The inside of the dining facili- as an American Indian greeted prime rib, as well as ham hocks, Kamsaid he and his officers are happy BASE PROSPERITY — It was ty was changed to give Task the Soldiers as they entered. a whole pig, 500 pounds of with the improvements because they an early-morning mission for Force Baghdad Soldiers a very “The meal was excellent. It Cornish hens, 600 pounds of feel safer as a result. the food specialists at Forward different dining experience than definitely took you away from roasted ham, 700 pounds of col- Maj. William Smith, Najaf-Karbala Operating Base Prosperity: pre- they find day-to-day. Displays Baghdad,” said Sgt. Timothy lard greens, 800 pounds of resident engineer and liaison officer, pare a Thanksgiving feast for made of food — such as the gin- Hartung, an engineer with mashed potatoes, 600 pounds of served as the tour escort. He is a mem- Soldiers deployed more than gerbread model of the palace Headquarters and Headquarters corn on the cob, 750 pounds of ber of the 35th Engineer Brigade, a Company, 4th dressing and 2,500 pies. Missouri Army National Guard unit Brigade Combat “We asked quite a few augmenting the Gulf Region South. Team. “The meal Soldiers what they wanted for Smith said the two police units really showed that Thanksgiving. A lot (of them) occupying the renovated stations are the staff cares about wanted ham hocks, collard crucial to the citizens of Najaf. making us feel like greens, pumpkin pie and pecan “One is an IP traffic checkpoint unit we’re at home.” pie, so we made a big effort to that controls “Route Miami,” said The dining facility make sure we had all those Smith. The other is an investigation staff expected at least things today,” Randolph said. unit that handles homicides and bur- 4,000 people and pre- Thanksgiving is a day for glaries, he said. pared a cornucopia of many to spend time with their Smith said the renovated stations Thanksgiving families and loved ones when also represent a “visible sign of author- favorites. they are at home, and the staff ity” to the community. “We put a lot of wanted to create the same feel- “Through these renovations we emphasis on ing here. are giving the IP of Wafa District Thanksgiving “They’re away from their something they can be proud to be because it’s one of families and this is a home away a part of.” the biggest meals of from home, so we wanted them “Our theory is to treat them with U.S Army photo by Spc. Jennifer D. Atkinson the year, and it’s a to feel like they’re at home and respect and they, in turn, will generate Capt. Chris Watroba of Company B, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, way for us to say give them what their mama respect,” Smith said. watches a cook slice turkey. thanks to the Soldiers would fix,” Randolph said. Dec. 2, 2005 Scimitar Page 5

Courtesy photo Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 6th Division of the Iraqi Army and Company D, 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry inventory weapons. Soldiers seize ‘gun show’ caches

Nov. 20 and rounded up three suspected ter- land that once belonged to Saddam Hussein. arm at least 30 men. Thankfully, the hard train- Story by Spc. Carlos Caro rorists. Less than 20 minutes after beginning their mis- ing of the Iraqi Army battalion allowed them to 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry “The weapons inside the cars were enough sion, the Soldiers found a mortar round hidden conduct the searches with success.” to lay down some serious firepower, should inside a bus parked in an old garage. Once However, the morning had just begun. Less BAGHDAD — When local residents provide they have been used,” Casiano said. “Luckily, Soldiers began thoroughly searching the vehi- than 30 minutes passed before the Iraqi and information on where terrorists are hiding their the insurgents were discovered along with the cle, they could barely believe their eyes. American Soldiers found two more caches. weapons, Iraqi and American forces are quick cache.” Inside a hidden compartment was a large These caches contained 50 12.7 mm rounds, 18 to respond. The cache included 10 assault rifles, six cache. The Soldiers seized 37 blocks of explo- rounds of linked 40 mm high-explosive An anonymous tip prompted Iraqi Soldiers machine guns, six hand grenades, two rocket- sives, 75 demolition charges, 400 feet of deto- grenades, dozens of mortar fuses, old Iraqi from 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army propelled grenade launchers with eight rounds, nation cord, hundreds of blasting caps, 33 mor- Republican Guard uniforms, five gas masks, Division and U.S. forces from Company D, 1st a mine, and thousands of rounds of ammuni- tar rounds, 30 hand grenades, 29 RPG rounds, five parachutes, two mortar rounds and two Battalion, 87th Infantry, to conduct searches in tion for the rifles and machine guns. 20 hand-grenade fuses, 86 assorted radios, four artillery shells. west Baghdad Nov. 20-21. It was a mission “I couldn’t believe that we found this many night-vision devices, four light anti-tank The Soldiers also discovered six already-pre- that eventually rooted out hidden weapons and weapons in four small cars,” said Staff Sgt. weapons, three mortar fuses, two submachine pared IEDs waiting to be picked up and used terrorists. Robert Cortez. “It is really awesome that we guns, a sniper rifle, a video camera, a laser against Iraqi civilians, Iraqi Security Forces and “The amount of weapons and munitions found all these weapons and detained the (sus- range finder, and several thousands of rounds Coalition Forces. found (on the first day of searches) was enough pected terrorists). All the hard work of gather- for different weapons. “I feel a considerable dent was put into the to arm a small cell, maybe eight men,” said ing intelligence and gaining the trust of the “It was a gun show,” Casiano said. “With all local insurgency,” said Pfc. Michael Wilmott Sgt. Paul Casiano of 1st Battalion, 87th local nationals has really paid off.” the weapons, munitions, improvised explosive of 1/87. “With the December elections com- Infantry. The next day proved even more productive. device materials and shoulder-launched mis- ing up quickly, it is a good thing to have the The American and Iraqi forces found The Iraqi and American Soldiers turned up siles that were brought out from a hidden panel locals tip us off as to where weapons caches caches hidden inside four parked cars on even larger caches on a large section of farm- inside the bus, there were enough weapons to are.” Page 6 Scimitar Dec. 2, 2005 New Soldiers provide smiles, security to Iraqi neighborhood

Story and photos by with a ‘Hey, we’re here,’ attitude “We’re out Spc. Jeremy D. Crisp before dismounting to walk the here looking for streets on foot. the bad guys,” Multi-National Corps – Iraq “We get on the ground as much said 1st Lt. MOSUL — They’re the new as possible because that’s really Anthony E. guys on the block, and they’re the only way you get to know the Cerullo, a pla- not hard to spot. people in the area,” Pickerel said. toon leader. Not because they rumble Company B recently replaced And the bad through the streets in their Soldiers from the 1st Stryker guys are out Stryker light-armored vehicles, Brigade Combat Team of Fort there. The unit for those have been there before. Lewis, Wash., and has hit the takes on sporadic It’s a new attitude; it’s a new ground running. gunfire and deals uniform on smiling faces with “This used to be called the with drive-by determination to get the job done. Wild Wild West, but the unit shootings and The Soldiers of Company B ahead of us did a lot of work improvised assumed responsibility for one here,” said Pickerel. “We’ve got explosive sector of the streets of Mosul. all the kinks worked out, and devices almost They smile at the Iraqi citizens things have calmed down quite a daily, said on the streets, but at the same bit since we’ve moved in.” Cerullo. Patrolling streets nicknamed “We take intel- time they will kick the doors in Spc. Andrew D. "Doc" Nelson, a medic with Company B, 4th Battalion, 23rd “Canal,” “Broadway,” and an ligence that has on the terrorists who plan to Infantry Regiment, looks over his shoulder providing cover for fellow Soldiers. spread upheaval. area known as “Yankee been gathered, “We are out here doing what Stadium,” — complete with and we look for wise,” he said. and help them along in that we like to call PR – public rela- alleys called “1st Base Line” all certain vehicles that we know are “It’s a dual-facet mission,” said process, the better off they’ll be.” tions,” said Sgt. 1st Class the way around to “Home Plate,” to be possible insurgent vehicles. Staff Sgt. Austin S. Fernandez, a Helping the cause is a Soldier Thomas M. Pickerel, platoon ser- — doesn’t come easy. We do standard patrols where we squad leader. “We let the citizens who speaks Arabic. Fernandez geant with Company B, 4th While shaking hands and giv- look for suspicious activity – know we are here to help them, but learned the language from inter- Battalion, 23rd Infantry ing candy to kids, the Soldiers of anything out of the ordinary,” we are also here to let them know preters, and it has helped tremen- Regiment, based at Fort Company B move up and down Cerullo said. “We look for IEDs that we don’t take any (mess).” dously, he said. Richardson, Alaska. miles of concrete, laden with before they go off, and we also On top of the patrols, a day “I don’t have any kids, but I “Our patrols are designed to let weapons, ammunition and 40 take care of guys we catch isn’t complete without a trip to can speak Arabic pretty well and the citizens of Iraq know we are pounds of armor strapped to their emplacing them. see their counterparts-in-arms. the kids come to me naturally,” here for them, and we are out backs. All that gear is essential “We talk to citizens in the The platoon stops daily to speak Fernandez said. “It helps out a lot here every day.” when the troops have to get to neighborhoods and do random with the Iraqi Army and Iraqi with relations, being able to talk The unit spends parts of their the business of being infantry- searches to see if we can find Police, seeing what they need and to the Iraqis a little.” days in vehicles, driving around men. anything, information or other- talking about future missions. During a recent patrol, a gaggle “We’ve done joint patrols with of 20 Iraqi children hung onto the IA and the IP, and we are and held hands with Fernandez. going to do even more now His M-4 assault rifle was put out because it’s their country, and of harm’s way for the time being. they are going to be the ones The infantrymen saw parents lin- doing it after we leave,” Cerullo ing the streets with smiles on said. “The more we can teach their faces and gestures of them how to do it the right way “thumbs up” for blocks.

Spc. Aaron A. Ebbert, left, radio telephone operator, Company B, 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Soldiers from Company B, 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, Regiment, and 1st Lt. Anthony E. Cerullo, a platoon leader, call in a report to their headquarters. line the streets during a patrol. Dec. 2, 2005 Scimitar Page 7 Combat engineers build for brothers Logistics Group, and this is not though is that these Story and photos by the first time they have faced Marines perform at their Sgt. Josh H. Hauser such conditions since being best and then some, no 2nd Force Service deployed to Iraq. matter what’s asked of Support Group Traveling throughout western them.” Iraq’s Al Anbar province and liv- One of those Marines HUSAYBAH — The Marines ing in squalor is all part of the is Alta Vista, Va., native start this day at 5:30 a.m. job. Lance Cpl. Brian D. They emerge from their sleep- The Marines of CLB-2 are Davis. At 19, Davis said ing bags, weapons in hand, and tasked with creating forward his service in Iraq has rise from the ice-cold concrete operating bases for future coali- been great. that has been their bed for the tion forces, to work as cities are “It’s a lot of hard work, past three nights. cleared of terrorists. They are but I think we all expect- To ward off the cold, some constructing a number of these ed that,” he said. head to a small fire used to burn fortifications as part of Operation “Besides, it makes the trash. They brush their teeth or Steel Curtain, an offensive to time go faster and we rake a dry razor across their dusty drive terrorists from the cities of know who we’re doing faces. Spirits are raised when Husaybah, Karabilah, Sa’dah and this for.” there is talk of one of today’s Ubaydi. Young men are the Combat engineers assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 2, 2nd tasks – install an outhouse. “Our job is to make sure those backbone of coalition Marine Logistics Group position a staircase they constructed to Breakfast is Meals Ready to in the fight have a safe place to efforts here and their access a scout position at a forward operating base in Husaybah. Eat. Lunch and dinner will be the sleep at night,” 1st Lt. Jason R. commitment and dedica- same, if time allows. Berner, a platoon commander sion is complete. Sgt. Troy M. Gardner, a combat tion to a free and demo- The Marines have called this with CLB-2 said. “The guys we “We’ve been on the road for engineer and squad leader, said cratic Iraq is something that fuels bombed-out train station in share blood and mud with will be awhile and doing more with less the most challenging aspect of the amazement and admiration of Husaybah home since they staying here, so our guys put their on each mission, and I still their mission was security prior to many of their commanding offi- arrived, and soon others will as hearts into their work.” haven’t really heard any [com- beginning the project. cers, Berner said. well. The 33-year-old Syracuse, plaining],” Berner said. “Securing the area and actually “They have more responsibility But accommodations will be Neb., native said that despite the It’s a testament to his unit’s starting work here was the tough- at 18 and 19 years old than most much better for future tenants. conditions and constant work- Marines, considering they’ve con- est part considering the limited grown people,” he said. “History These Marines are combat engi- load, his men know their job and tinued their work while firefights number of Marines we have,” the is being written by an 18-year-old neers assigned to Combat what to expect and they are com- and explosions ring out in the 25-year-old Overland Park, Kan, with an M-16 over here. It’s Logistics Battalion 2, 2nd Marine mitted to staying until the mis- nearby city. native said. “One thing I notice incredible.” ‘Cable Dogs’ keep Baghdad talking

Story and photo by sergeant, said existing cables and fiber optics Sgt. Andrew Miller lacked the organization and labels necessary for efficient troubleshooting. Task Force Baghdad “We had to pull everything out and start from CAMP LIBERTY — Before they deployed to scratch,” Whiteside-Harris said. Iraq, most of 3rd Signal Company’s cable platoon’s In light of their mammoth mission, Boles said Soldiers did not know what their jobs would be. interaction with other organizations has been In fact, the cable team didn’t even exist. invaluable to his team’s success. One unit in partic- Upon arriving in theater, 1st Lt. Shawn Boles, ular, 35th Signal Company’s cable platoon, 3rd Sig. Co. executive officer, learned he would assigned to 18th Airborne Corps, has been trading lead a new team that would be responsible for the experience and parts with Boles’ team throughout installation and maintenance of Task Force their deployments. Baghdad’s entire communications network. Many The ability to trade parts reduced their wait for of the team’s 18 Soldiers were to be working out- supplies, sometimes drastically. Reducing the wait side of their intended jobs. helps get the inoperable systems working faster, The newly-formed team relied heavily on thus enabling Soldiers to work on other projects. the knowledge of its four cable specialists. Whiteside-Harris said they also benefited from Eventually, through experience and collabo- working with their civilian counterparts. Experts ration with other units, they discovered the with civilian companies shared years of fiber optics best way to get past hurdles. experience and extensive equipment knowledge. Sgt. Rebecca Willard, a cable specialist, said it Whiteside-Harris said three Soldiers are on the was difficult at first to work with Soldiers from brink of earning certification with The Fiber Optic outside of her specialty. This was especially the Association. case when they were working with fiber optics, “We have a team of professionals,” Whiteside- because such tasks are highly technical. She said Harris said, smiling. “I am so proud of them.” Spc. Neville Rose, a signal support her team members have since come a long way. She said her team members have conducted systems specialist with 3rd Signal “They have learned a lot of what it takes to independent research on some of their projects, Company, Special Troops Battalion, 3rd do the job and they take great pride in it,” making improvements on how they do what they Infantry Division, runs cables and lis- Willard said. do. Such research repeatedly changed the way she tens as his supervisor shouts instruc- Boles said experience came easily to the cable thinks of her job, and she began requesting new tions through the ceiling. team because they had endless work. The early and different equipment based on the Soldiers’ days evolved into many late nights. findings, she said. operational and sustainable. When they arrived in Iraq, much of the task These new techniques and equipment Boles said he expects all of the task force’s force’s network was not working. Sgt. 1st Class enabled a small cable team to turn a large, existing buildings to be similarly wired by Janeen Whiteside-Harris, the cable team’s platoon unreliable network into one that is organized, the end of his tour. Page 8 Scimitar Dec. 2, 2005 U.S. troops no longe Iraqi government takes over FOB Danger,

Story by Pfc. Cassandra Groce 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

TIKRIT — The Iraqi government took control of Saddam Hussein’s palace com- plex from U.S. forces in a historic ceremony Nov. 22 in Tikrit. Four different U.S. Army units have used the complex as a forward operating base since 2003. “Now it is the property of the Iraqi peo- ple,” said Hamad Hamood Shekti, governor of the Salah Ad Din territory. “Tourists will be allowed to see the palaces.” Commander of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Col. Mark McKnight, handed the “key to the city” to Shekti dur- ing the ceremony, signifying the release of U.S. control. “The passing of this facility is a simple ceremony that vividly demonstrates the con- tinuing progress being made by the Iraqi government and their people,” McKnight said. “Two years ago, coalition forces fought to rid this nation of an oppressive regime. Since that time, coalition forces have resided on FOB Danger, working alongside Iraqis to protect the four provinces of north central Iraq.” U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Dallas R. Walker Although 24 other operating bases have U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Dr. Zalmay Khalilzad talks to a reporter from SD TV at the transfer ceremony in Tikrit. Khalilzad been turned over to the people of Iraq, the was one of many distinguished guests at the ceremony. Tikrit palace complex is the most significant transition. The complex is on more than because now it is the property of the Iraqi 1,000 acres of land along the Tigris River. people.” There are 136 buildings on the property, The palace complex was initially secured with a combined 1.5 million square feet of by the 4th Infantry Division in 2003 and administrative and living space. designated as Camp Iron Horse during The province was, and will stay, “a sym- Operation Iraqi Freedom I. Saddam Hussein bol of national unity and brotherhood in was captured near Camp Iron Horse in Iraq,” Shekti said. December 2003. The base was redesignated FOB Danger once it came under the control of the 1st “Now it is the property of the Infantry Division out of Wurzburg, Iraqi people.” Germany. The 42nd Infantry Division, a National Hamad Hamood Shekti Guard unit based in New York, took over the Salah Ad Din territory governor FOB on Feb. 14, and in July began the process of returning the complex to the Iraqi people. “[Today], we celebrate the transfer of the The took authori- presidential palaces to the patriotic Iraqi ty of north central Iraq, including the palace hands, signifying the many aspirations and complex, under Task Force Band of Brothers goals of the great citizens of the Salah Ad on Nov. 1. Din province,” Shekti said. Many Iraqi officials attended the momen- Shekti said he looks forward to Iraq’s tous event, including Lt. Gen. Shahid Aziz, independence, when all multinational forces commander of the 4th Iraqi Army; Rasheed are able to leave Iraq, and wants to prove the Ahmad, chairman of provincial council; and people of Iraq can manage their issues inde- Judge Abd al Hussein Shandal, the minister pendently. of justice. U.S. Ambassador Dr. Zalmay A “These palaces are owned by not one per- Khalilzad and Gen. George Casey, com- son anymore,” he said, “and no one will be mander of Multi-National Force – Iraq, were U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Cassandra Groce prevented from entering them in the future, also in attendance. Omer Saeed Osman directs the 4th Division, 2nd Brigade, Iraqi Army Band. Dec. 2, 2005 Scimitar Page 9 er in Danger Saddam Hussein’s former palace complex

Deputy Govenor of Salah Ad Din Province, Abdullah Hussein, talks with Gen. George W. Casey, commander of the multinational force in Iraq, before the ceremony, top. The deputy gover- nor greets U.S. Soldiers before the ceremony, above. Hussein raises the Iraqi flag, left. (U.S. Army photos by Pfc. Cassandra Groce)

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Dallas Walker Abdullah Hussein, deputy governor of Salah Ad Din Province, raises the Iraqi flag in a symbol- ic moment in history as the people of Iraq took control of Forward Operating Base Danger Page 10 Scimitar Dec. 2, 2005 Presence:

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approach Soldiers to speak to them. them down,” Crecelius said. “We move on shots. Wherever Vehicles can get somewhere Story and photos by But, the terrorists also see the Though the paratroopers con- shots come from, we move to them quicker and cordon off an area, Pfc. James Wilt paratroopers on the street and duct presence patrols at least … we try to get to the shooter but dismounts; we can maneuver, 82nd Airborne Division more than once have attacked twice a day, the men rarely come itself,” Crecelius said. take cover and we can locate … TALL AFAR – The sound of a them. under fire. While moving through the city the shooter better than the vehi- lone shot defiled the peace and Terrorist attacks against the para- “We don’t usually take contact; on foot makes the men of cle can,” Crecelius said. serenity of the cool, crisp morn- troopers, while dangerous, play it’s just been a few separate times,” Company C targets, they said being Despite being a dismounted unit, ing air. into the hands of the Soldiers. Crecelius said. dismounted from their vehicles is the Soldiers still rely on vehicles. Reacting to the contact, a small “In our minds, it is a movement When the paratroopers do to their advantage. “If we get contact, we have vehi- element of Soldiers, who were in to contact. We’re trying to draw the receive enemy fire, they react “We can maneuver better on cle support,” said Spc. Scott the open, made a break for cover, insurgents out, so that we can take quickly. the ground then in vehicles. Johnson, 25, an infantryman from while other Soldiers in an over- Albert Lea, Minn. looking position scanned the area Vehicles are used to cordon off for a shooter. an area, allowing the dismounted In a series of deliberate move- Soldiers to search the area, ments, both groups of Soldiers Crecelius said. leapfrogged toward the area the Despite danger on the streets, the attack came from in an effort to paratroopers of Company C are find the shooter. committed to the patrols. Everyday, paratroopers from “We have to do this because, Company C, 2nd Battalion, 325th besides informants, this is the only Airborne Infantry Regiment, way we can identify exactly who is 82nd Airborne Division, conduct bad or an area they are operating presence patrols through neigh- out of,” Johnson said. borhoods here in an effort to be The paratroopers also realize the seen by the local people and the impact it has on the inhabitants of local terrorists. the city. “It just lets people know we’re “As the activity has been picking still here, we’re out patrolling the up, the people see us still on the area,” said Staff Sgt. Haven streets even though it’s been get- Crecelius, 25, an infantryman from ting heated again. They know Denison, Iowa. Using a wall for cover, paratroopers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry we’re not going to leave, we’re The people see the paratroopers Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, scan rooftops and radio for air cover after receiving fire from going to finish what we started,” on the street. The residents often a terrorist. Crecelius said. Dec. 2, 2005 Scimitar Page 11 Fighting flight line FOD field operations.” Story and photo by Since the Balad airfield is the second Tech. Sgt. Pamela Anderson busiest single runway in the world, behind 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Heathrow Airport in England, the operators are acquiring plenty of experience. BALAD AIR BASE — Keeping the airfield There are about 15,000 sorties a month, at Balad Air Base free of debris is a lot of Kretschmer said, with 280,000 total in fiscal work, but members of the 332nd year 2005. Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron The terrain and types of aircraft flying here Airfield Management Flight and 332nd has an impact on FOD, or foreign object Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron damage, prevention. Pavements and Equipment Shop are up to the “With both fixed wing and rotary aircraft challenge. here and the number of sorties each day, “Basically, we oversee the whole process sweeping takes on a new role,” Hannaford of sweeping operations,” said Tech. Sgt. said. “Since we do not have the comfort of Jason Kretschmer, 332nd EOSS airfield man- green grass, small rocks and other debris ager. “We funnel the request for sweepers to have a tendency to find their way onto air- CE, then inspect afterwards to ensure the air- field surfaces from open areas of the airfield field is operational.” and vehicles. If everyone entering the airfield Staff Sgt. Jason Putt, 332nd Expeditionary Civil Engineering Squadron, cleans And keeping it operational is an ongoing would keep their vehicles on hard surfaces off a road sweeper before turning it over to the Airman working the next shift. process with civil engineers operating the this would help eliminate a majority of FOD, sweepers 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a- especially during the rainy season.” “They spend a lot of time near the HASs, vide a path that is FOD free,” Hannaford said. week. Though the overall condition of the run- (hardened aircraft shelters) on the taxiways The pavements and equipment personnel “Seventeen people rotate responsibilities way is good, certain parts of the runway have and, of course, the runway,” said Kretschmer. are doing their part to fulfill that need. throughout the (air expeditionary force) bigger FOD concerns than others, “Our biggest concern is the F-16 because its “Sweeping can be very tedious at times cycle,” said Senior Master Sgt. Jeffrey Kretschmer said. The south end of the run- engines are so low to the ground and have and it’s a job that goes unrecognized,” said Hannaford, 332nd ECES operations super- way takes the heaviest beating. Plans are in major sucking power.” Staff Sgt. Jason Putt, 332nd ECES pave- intendent. “The individuals will perform the works for a complete runway renovation. It’s a legitimate worry since debris could ments and construction equipment craftsman. sweeper operator duties for one week In the meantime, airfield management pri- make the aircraft inoperable and affect over- “But we know what an important role it phases, so everyone will get the opportuni- oritizes areas needing work and where the all mission capability. plays in the overall mission, so I’m glad to ty to gain experience in sweeping and air- sweepers should focus their efforts. “These aircraft rely on the sweepers to pro- be doing it.” Airmen help renovate hospital Eyes are on skies in Balad nications, the watch supervisor is on hand to Story and photo by Story and photo by give the controllers a break when needed. Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore Senior Airman Bryan Franks “Our team has to watch each other’s 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing backs,” said Staff Sgt. Drew Spradley, 332nd EOSS watch supervisor. “A lot rides on the BALAD AIR BASE —Airmen from across BALAD AIR BASE — A director producing fact that we have to get it right every time.” the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing are a blockbuster film must know where each More than 500 flight operations take place revamping the Air Force Theater Hospital, actor and camera is at all times to ensure the each day through Balad’s tower and more creating a brighter and safer environment for right shot. than 25,000 ground operations occur a patients and providers. Air traffic controllers from the 332nd month. The 332nd Expeditionary Civil Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron “I like air traffic control; it’s always differ- Engineering Squadron, 332nd Expeditionary must be just as diligent to ensure aircraft take ent up here,” said Senior Airman Sean Communications Squadron and the 332nd off and land safely at Balad. Strong, 332nd EOSS air traffic controller. Expeditionary Medical Support Squadron The 332nd EOSS air traffic controllers are “Every day there is something challenging have the lead roles in the project, which is responsible for all moving vehicles on the happening. Being the local controller is the designed to improve patient flow, relocate the airfield and aircraft in the skies around most challenging and fun part of being an air specialty clinics, and replace the current Balad, said 1st Lt. Erin Decker, 332nd EOSS traffic controller. You have to take everything tents, which are fire hazards. airfield flight operations officer. you learned and put it together and try not to “Without the help of the 332nd ECES, “The tower is one of two units responsible let the stress bother you.” 332nd ECS and the volunteers, the success for all flights in and out of Balad,” Decker On some of the tower teams, the Australian we have experienced thus far would not be said. “A tower crew is made up of four mem- Royal Air Force air traffic controllers work possible,” said Lt. Col. Patrick Dawson, bers, each with different tasks to ensure traf- alongside the American controllers. “I think it’s a great experience to work in a 332nd EMDSS commander and hospital Airman 1st Class Jeremie Wilson, fic flows smoothly.” joint environment,” said Flying Officer administrator. “The motivation and morale of 332nd Civil Engineering Squadron, The local controller is responsible for all Catherine Rubin, Australian Royal Air Force the more than 120 people helping with this prepares a concrete pad during the runway and air traffic. The ground controller air traffic controller. “It’s a chance to learn project is high. There is a great amount of renovations at the Air Force Theater handles all vehicle traffic on the airfield and share different procedures and improve synergy going on here. This is teamwork at Hospital including taxiing aircraft. The flight data its best.” controller is the point person for contact them.” The project, which will replace 95 percent our resources active to be 100 percent mis- between different air traffic agencies and The controllers’ days are full of activity, of the hospital tents, about 35,000 square feet sion ready at all times. coordinates between local and ground con- working one of the busiest airfields in of tent space, began Oct. 30 and is expected Volunteers have also helped with tasks trollers. The watch supervisor monitors all Operation Iraqi Freedom. to be completed by Dec. 1, if the weather such as moving patients and medical equip- the communication between the three con- “Working in the tower really makes the remains agreeable. ment from several ICU wards during tent trollers, aircraft and vehicles. days go by faster,” said Senior Airman Leslie “Our goal is to not lose any medical and replacement. The controllers are all qualified to work Alonso, 332nd EOSS, air traffic controller. “I surgical capabilities whatsoever during this “We are very appreciative of this help. The local, ground and flight data positions. love being an air traffic controller. I wouldn’t move,” Dawson said. “We want to keep all of teamwork is outstanding,” Dawson said. However, in addition to monitoring commu- want any other job.” Page 12 Scimitar Dec. 2, 2005 Iraqi Army activates brigade

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Matthew Wester Iraqi Soldiers at Camp Taji stand at attention during a ceremony marking the creation of a new armored brigade. The 9th Division now has a 2nd Armored Brigade equipped with battle tanks and other armored vehicles. The division conducts security operations northwest of Baghdad.

Iraqi public health clinic to serve generations

“I will tell my children that I was part of building it,” Story and photo by Denise Calabria he said. Gulf Region Division Ali, the Iraqi safety coordinator, is also a Najaf native. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers He shares the same challenges of safety coordinators across Iraq, mainly because the Iraqi workers have a hard BAGHDAD — In a Najaf neighborhood, local workers are time adjusting to wearing hardhats and the right type of busy constructing the Hai Al Jaml’a Public Health Clinic; clothes. while Soldiers and civilians of the U.S. Army Corps of The workers reached a compromise by wearing the Engineers Gulf Region South provide oversight. mandatory hardhats over their “schmag;” – the checkered To the USACE employees, the project is one of 149 cloth head covering that signifies different tribal affilia- Public Health Clinics under construction across Iraq. To be tions. sure, they are hard-working, dedicated and proud of their The safety coordinator did not smile, however, when he involvement; but because of the temporary nature of their said that he has had to let employees go home for showing role in Iraq, their involvement is fleeting. up for work in open-toed sandals. To the local Iraqis building the clinic the involvement “I was sad to do it, but I had to. Soon, they come to real- will be long term. Therefore, they truly are stakeholders in ize that I am doing this for their own safety,” said Ali. the clinic. It was obvious that Ali was making an impact. All of the At this site, it is evident Iraqis are planning and imple- crew was wearing proper headgear and footwear when offi- menting reconstruction efforts because it is their future and cials arrived for a surprise inspection. Being a part of this they have the responsibility and capability to make it work. particular construction project has prepared these workers Akmed, a young Iraqi mixing cement by hand, was quick to work safer in their future employment. to voice his opinion through a translator. The Iraqi site supervisor, Mohammed, said he is thankful “It is very important in this area,” Akmed said of the for the practical experience he derives from this project. PHC. “We need this because there is only one other hospi- “I also feel good because I am involved with this for my tal and it is under repair.” country and my city,” he said of his involvement with the Akmed said he feels good to take part in the building of construction project. the clinic. Mohammed, a local, is married with two young children. Barely out of his teens, he is not yet married. He imag- His mother and father also live in the neighborhood, there- ines one day he will be, and that his future wife and chil- by making it possible for three generations of his family to Local Iraqi workers construct an interior wall at the dren will come to the clinic. benefit from the formation of this public health clinic. Najaf Public Health Clinic. Dec. 2, 2005 Scimitar Page 13

Two-person rafting teams wait for the start of the first Camp Bucca Raft Race. More than 17 Air Force, Army and Navy teams participated in the event. Soldiers win first Camp Bucca Raft Race

The Air Force-sponsored race, held on a finish line. Finishing first, way ahead of the compe- Story and photos by small pond here, matched the talents and “Camp leaders wanted a different way to tition, was “Team Wilson,” made up of Tech. Sgt. Mark Getsy ingenuity of 17 teams vying for the top build morale and give people a different Army Staff Sgt. Fawn Armstrong and 386th Air Expeditionary Wing prize and camp bragging rights. outlet to release energy instead of going to Mark Khoury. She works at the Theater Air Force Master Sgt. John Oblinger, of the gym,” Oblinger said. Internment Facility supply squadron; he is CAMP BUCCA — Airmen, Soldiers and the 886th Expeditionary Security Forces Of the 17 teams, only two all-Air Force a camp interpreter. They won more than Sailors traded their military vehicles and Squadron, said the objective was for a teams competed in an Army-dominated $100 worth of merchandise. weapons for homemade boats and paddles two-person team to build a raft from any event. The best Air Force finish was by Airman to take part in the first Camp Bucca Raft material they could find, navigate it Victory wasn’t in the cards for the teams 1st Class Micah Spicer and Senior Airman Race. around a small island, and return to the in blue. Cameron Riely, security forces troops. They finished sixth overall. The second Air Force team, Staff Sgt. Ashanti Charles and Airman 1st Class Christie Swehle, also security forces troops, didn’t fare well. The team didn’t make it more than 10 yards before trouble began. “Our technique didn’t work as well as we had hoped,” Charles said. “We just kept going around in circles.” Part of the problem could have come from pre-race nerves. Swehle was amazed at her competition’s rafts before the race. “I was scared [seeing the rafts],” she said. “We tried our best, but just couldn’t get [our rowing] coordinated.” After struggling for what must have seemed like a lifetime, they decided to hang it up, jump off the raft and kick their way back to shore. The team was awarded a prize for not finishing the race and com- ing in last. Both Langley Air Force Base troops said they would do it again. “It was a blast,” Charles said. “It was great fun and a great boost in morale.” Oblinger said this type of event builds camaraderie between the services. “These events give (Camp Bucca troops) a chance to meet their fellow comrades Staff Sgt. Ashanti Charles and Airman 1st Class Christie Swehle resorted to kicking their way back to shore when their outside the normal work environment,” he boat did not finish the first-ever Camp Bucca Raft Race. The 886th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron troops made said. “We hope the race becomes a tradi- up one of 17 teams to enter the event. tion at Camp Bucca.” Page 14 Scimitar Dec. 2, 2005

CHAPLAIN’S TALK Coalition Corner So close yet so far? Laugh a little. ... highlighting countries it bad when he was through when you are By Lt. Cmdr. on the last section of all by yourself, and serving with MNF-Iraq John M. Hakanson the presentation and you spin up your lap- Multi-National Corps - Iraq then realized he still top to watch a $1.50 Deputy Operations had 36 slides to go. hit movie, only to Other times it hits find out it is in an We were inoculated for many in the evening, when unidentifiable lan- potential illnesses when we you have checked guage subtitled in came into theater. There is one your ‘Baghdad French. inoculation many of us missed Doughnut’ and real- What is the treat- that was designed to keep us ize that you have Chaplain Hakanson ment for this syn- from getting “So-close-and-yet- just 60 days left in drome? There may be so-far syndrome.” your tour. But there are holidays quite a few therapies, but noth- I am not sure when it was in there, so though it is close, it ing works for me like laughter. It Azerbaijan given, but I definitely missed it. seems so far. says in Proverbs 17:22 “A merry It is one of those things that The syndrome plays with your heart doeth good like a medicine: local name: Azarbaycan Respublikasi comes and goes. When it does head when you are trying to do but a broken spirit dries the come, it seems the math: bones.” That must have been The Republic of Azerbaijan is in Southwest Asia, bordering the to come at the time and dis- written not too far from here. Caspian Sea, Armenia, Georgia, Iran, Russia and Turkey. Size-wise, it is most inoppor- When it is especially tance divid- Actually, it was. slightly smaller than Maine with a population of 7.9 million. tune times. ed by It takes a person to decide to Azerbaijani is the official language here, but some Russian and Like the time hard to get through, is method plus focus on the comical aspect of Armenian is spoken in various regions. I was in Al when you are all by mood equals the situation rather than the solu- Azerbaijan has a republic government, and the Azerbaijani manat is Hillah, with a yourself, and you spin the relative tion that would make sense back its official currency. Azerbaijan has a wonderful mix of history and polling station up your laptop to watch length home. Don’t try to make sense of modern attractions. This country is believed to be one of the initial cra- right around remaining, it. Just roll with it, like leaning dles of human culture; research suggests primitive man settled in this the corner. But a $1.50 hit movie only assuming the into a sharp turn. It does not help area almost two million years ago. Baku, the nation’s capital, is home to the direct route to find out it is in an target does to lean outward. You just get an important fire temple of the Persian religion Zoroastrianism, a preva- was not clear, unidentifiable language not change. sore. lent regional religion in older times. Ichari Sharhar, a medieval walled so we had to It is noto- This is also a place where we city also known as the Inner City, is one of the oldest continuously take the scenic subtitled in French. rious for hit- can help each other, by pointing inhabited areas of the Middle East. The Apsheron Peninsula begins just tour. You can ting just at out the oddities of living here. a few miles away from Baku, and it boasts several medieval castles as travel miles Chaplain Hakanson the end of a Sometimes the process will make well as mosques. It also is home to the famous Atesgah Fire Temple, between for- meal when the time go fast. believed to be a sacred Zoroastrian since the 6th century. The village of ward operating you are Other times it may simply Qobustan features over 39 square miles of rock paintings, some dating bases in a short time by helicop- thinking about desert and blink make a memory you can laugh over 10,000 years. The amazing open-aired Qobustan Museum features ter, and then wait for hours for twice because you could have about years from now. Neolithic rock drawings with over 4,000 inscriptions dating back the convoy to take you the last sworn the sign said: “31 minus This place can be very dry; 12,000 years and Latin graffiti dating back 2,000 years. mile. 26 Flavors Ice Cream.” don’t let the dryness into your Not only does Azerbaijan have brain-stimulating attractions, its popu- I saw one guy who really had It is especially hard to get bones. Laugh a little. lar dishes stimulate the tastebuds. One of the most popular national foods is plov, a rice pilaf that comes in more than 100 varieties. Another favorite is piti, a savory mutton-based soup with chickpeas, onion and potato, slow-cooked to perfection. Dovgha, a yogurt and spinach-based NEWS IN BRIEF soup with rice and meatballs, and kutab, pastries stuffed with spinach or pumpkin, are just two of many delicious Azerbaijani dishes. Besides historic lands and delicious food, Azerbaijan is also home to MND-CS Soldiers build pleted 2,100 projects; including converted into IEDs, detonated world-famous people. Musa Manarov, an Azerbaijani, was the first asphalt road in al Hillah water purification plants, electrical before they could be moved from the station, killing nine suspected human to stay in space for more than a year, and Faroukh Bulsara, who power stations, schools, medical CAMP ECHO — Multinational terrorists and injuring four others. is better known as Freddy Mercury of the legendary rock group Queen, Division-Central South Soldiers clinics and administrative buildings. They have helped more than The four injured suspects were was born in completed a new road in al Hillah. detained by the Samarra Police. Tanzania to Before the project, the area was a 500,000 Iraqi people. In the nearby city of Balad, U.S. Azerbaijani parents. dirt road, which turned to mud after Soldiers detained a suspect at a Azerbaijan — yet every rain. Busy day for Iraqi, checkpoint after he attempted to another piece of the The project, prepared by Coalition Forces avoid questioning. Multi-National Salvadoran Soldiers, lasted 30 days TIKRIT — Iraqi and U.S. forces A search revealed that he was Force — Iraq puz- and consisted of hardening the continued the fight against terrorists carrying more than $3,000. zle, dedicated to ground and laying 1,250 meters of operating throughout the north cen- To finish off the day, U.S. troops rebuilding Iraq. asphalt. tral region of Iraq Saturday. conducted a clearing operation in Since the start of their mission in Sixteen suspected terrorists, Baqubah in the evening. Iraq, the Salvadoran Soldiers com- including one female, were cap- The Soldiers detained a man pleted 78 projects worth more than tured in a series of unrelated events. and a woman after discovering $3 million. Additional projects are In an early morning cordon and them with eight blocks of C-4 ongoing. search mission near Baqubah, Iraqi plastic explosive, an AK-47 with MND-CS has been actively and U.S. Soldiers detained nine sus- several hundred rounds, blasting References: www.cia.gov, www.lonelyplanet.com, www.zerbaijan.com, engaged in improving the lives of pected terrorists and seized fuses caps and various other IED-mak- used for detonating explosives www.answers.com, www.noc-aze.org, www.worldtravelguide.net, Iraqis. ing materials. along with several anti-aircraft http://azer.com, http://news.bbc.co.uk. The Soldiers organize the recon- artillery rounds. struction of the civilian infrastruc- Police in Samarra investigated an ture and provide humanitarian relief explosion that occurred at a gas sta- — Briefs submitted by Sgt. 1st for Iraqi citizens. tion southeast of the city Saturday Class David Abrams, 3rd Infantry During the past two years, civil at about 11:30 a.m. Division public affairs office plans military relations specialists com- Four 155 mm artillery shells, and operations NCO. Dec. 2, 2005 Scimitar Page 15 SScciimmiittaarr SSllaappssttiicckk

Art by Maj. James D. Crabtree

PLEASE SEND US Humorous stories, pho- Art by Jeffery Hall tos, and art work. All are are welcome! Send to the Scimitar for consideration at: [email protected] Page 16 Scimitar Dec. 2, 2005 Runners tear through ‘Turkey Trot’

seconds. The second-place finisher complet- The three fastest men and women were in Camp Liberty’s 4th of July and Labor Day Story and photos by ed the Turkey Trot shortly after Jackson, but awarded T-shirts; first-place finishers in both races. Marchan said she was trailing Knudson Spc. Derek Del Rosario was such an enthusiastic runner that he kept categories additionally received gift cards, most of the way, but was able to overcome Task Force Baghdad on going after the run, and did not attend while the second-place male and female fin- her about half a mile before the finish. the awards presentation afterwards. The ishers received food certificates. “(Knudson) was really hauling butt the CAMP LIBERTY — Runners endured a speedy civilian contract worker was only This was Jackson’s sixth race since arriving entire race, but I just stayed on pace and was brisk, chilly morning and began their identified as “Kurt from Washington.” Third in Iraq in January. A runner in college, he said able to pass her near the end,” Marchan said. Thanksgiving Day by participating in a place went to 2nd Lt. Peter Euler, a platoon he was happy with the win, but there is still “I am happy with the race overall. We had a Morale, Welfare and Recreation 5-kilometer leader with 546th Transportation Company, room for improvement. His races here in Iraq good turnout despite the (cold) weather, and Turkey Trot race. who finished in 18:27. have helped improve his running as well as it was good to run for what might be my last The breath of runners rose through the cool With a time of 22:08, Master Sgt. Silvia boost his morale, he added. race (during Operation Iraqi Freedom 3).” air. Some runners wore jackets and gloves, Marchan, 3rd Infantry Division’s equal “I wanted to run in a low 17 (minute) time While there were many competitive run- while others bravely ran in shorts and T- opportunity noncommissioned officer in for this race, but ultimately I would like to ners participating in the Turkey Trot, some shirts. All 75 participants finished the race charge, took first among the female runners. get back to running in the 16s,” Jackson said. runners ran for unit morale, including 12 that started shortly before sunrise. Second-place finisher Capt. Sarah Knudson, “I think races like (the Turkey Trot) are a big Soldiers from 30th Medical Brigade. The top finisher was Spc. Derrick 504th Military Police Battalion, trailed morale booster for the troops. They definitely “Thanksgiving is a time for family, and that’s Jackson, a mechanic in Headquarters and Marchan by a second. Third-place female was are a stress reliever for me. Participating also why we are all out here running together,” Headquarters Company, 612th Engineering 1st Lt. Marietta Squire, Company B , 92nd reminds me of home.” said Maj. Jeffrey Yarvis, the brigade’s civil Battalion, with a time of 17 minutes, 45 Engineering Battalion, with a time of 23:18. Marchan is an avid runner who placed first military officer.

Master Sgt. Silvia Marchan, 3rd From left, Master Sgt. Silvia Marchan, 3rd Infantry Division equal opportunity noncommissioned officer in charge, Infantry Division equal opportunity Capt. Sarah Knudson, 504th Military Police Battalion, and 1st Lt. Marietta Squire, Company B, 92nd Engineering noncommissioned officer in Charge, Battalion, braved the cold and finished Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s 5K Turkey Trot in first, second and third, sprints to the finish of the Turkey Trot. respectfully, among women runners. Sickness follows Thanksgiving Day meal Story by Spc. Rick Rzepka Hofer, referring to the Thanksgiving Day meal held at the “Drink lots of water. Staying hydrated is one of the most Assistant Editor palace dining facility. “There are several variables to consid- important things when you have diarrhea. er in determining what caused the infection,” he said. “(Dehydration) is one of the biggest causes of diarrheal BAGHDAD – More than 100 personnel stationed in or “I feel the DFAC does an excellent job at cleanliness. I death,” said Hofer, who advises people who pass more than around the International Zone have been seen at the Mission personally visited the kitchen without notice, and it’s as ster- five to six diarrheal stools a day to go to sick call. Medical Clinic here for food poisioning following the ile as an operating room,” said Hofer. “It’s not a systemic “If someone is feeling uneasy, we will see them anytime,” Thanksgiving meal. problem.” he said. The illness, which Dr. Curt Hofer, a State Department Some victims of the illness have reported having more The most important thing someone can do to prevent this regional medical officer here, calls a gastrointestinal ill- than 30 bowel movements in one day, said Spc. Ashely sort of illness is to wash their hands, said Hofer. Also, if the ness, causes “severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain Morrison, a health care specialist at the clinic. food tastes funny, don’t eat it, he said. and diarrhea.” “It’s basically your body’s way of getting rid of the bad Those who are experiencing symptoms should focus their The exact cause of the illness is under investigation by the bacteria,” said Morrison. diet on foods high in starch, while avoiding fried or greasy preventative medicine team here, said Hofer. Hofer, who treated 20 people for the illness, warns of the food. Foods such as bananas, rice, soups, and applesauce “All of the people who got sick ate the shrimp,” said potential damage done to the body by excessive diarrhea. help by absorbing the bacteria, said Morrison.