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DECEMBERANAC 27, 2006 NDAPROUDLY SERVING TIMES LSA ANACONDA

Underwoodmania THROUGH OUR EYES Soldiers fill Sustainer Theater Catch a glimpse of the holiday spirit of for 50-minutes of rock, country 13th SC(E) Soldiers around LSAA Page 16 Page 15 Vol. 3, Issue 52 SMA visits troops “The logistics Soldiers are the backbone of this operation.” - Sergeant Major of the Army Kenneth Preston

Installers use a make-shift device attached to a forklift to easily install the news doors on a M1114 at the installation facility on LSA Anaconda. M1114 upgraded armor installs in full swing for U.S. forces by Sgt. 1st Class Mark Bell Anaconda Times Editor LSA ANACONDA, Iraq--Army Materiel Command is setting up shops across Iraq to meet the large demand for the latest safety addition to the M1114, the new Objective Fragmentation 5 (OF5K) door and side panel add-on armor kit. The armored kits, which are the newest upgrades to Humvees, help better protect ser- vicemembers from explosive devices and other hazards on the battlefield. The new armor enhancements offer the troops many features not available until now. Spring-loaded and counter-weighted windows allow the Soldier to roll the 100-pound window up and down with ease, said Lt. Col. Frederick Dennison of Radcliff, Ky., commander of the 1st Battalion, 402nd Army Field Support Brigade. The improved Gunner’s Protective Kit (O- GPK) enhances the gunner’s protection, vis- ibility, and maneuverability within the turret, according to Ted Rhoades, a civilian logistics Photo by Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown planner from Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Please tell me why I signed up for this? Capt. Stacie Hepler, Maj. Cynthia Lerch, and Capt. Narvo Robinson, all assigned to the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) are covered with See, UPGRADES, Page 11 whip cream as their battalion commander, Lt. Col. Brian Brindley poses for cameras after his officers volunteered for a “pie-in-the-face” fundraiser. “I live the Army Values.” I am Staff Sgt. Michael Grabowski, from Fort Carson, Colo. 3rd Medical Command >> Combat Medic Instructor PAGE 2 Anaconda Times DECEMBER 27, 2006 Waiting til the last minute... again story and photos by Sgt. Gary A. Witte LSA ANACONDA, Iraq – They each for Christmas and save the bigger command even tries to push more flights could knock on wood, cross their fingers, gift-giving when he gets home. She, of out to help get last-minute mail home or hunt for a rabbit’s foot, but mostly course, had sent his gift two days ago. before the holiday. they just hoped. Because really, holiday “She’s less of a slacker than I am,” “We completely understand,” Negron hopes were all the procrastinators had he said. said of the late mailings. “We still do our that their packages would arrive home The base post offices remain busy best to get it there.” before Christmas. throughout the year, but the Christmas In another effort to accommodate With the deadline for timely mailing season multiplies the traffic. In the past customers for the season, the office left almost 10 days past, customers still month, the base has handled 1.5 million out a box of free wrapping paper, which lined up at the east side post office with pounds, or 94,000 individual pieces, was used up within a few days. boxes filled with gifts. of ingoing and outgoing mail, Postal Sgt. Lawrence R. Davidson of Spc. Pete J. O’Brien of Woodstown, Superintendent Master Sgt. Cedric Syracuse N.Y., a heavy equipment N.J., a cavalry scout with 5th Squadron, Palmore of Memphis, Tenn., said. operation supervisor for the 15th 117th Cavalry Regiment, filled out an “A lot of people wait until the last Engineer Company, said he doesn’t address label in red and green ink. week,” Palmore said, noting that more normally wait until the last minute, but The nearby teddy bear, wearing a customers started coming in after the was extremely busy. Santa hat and a Philadelphia Phillies Dec. 4 priority mail deadline. “It was Thanksgiving,” Davidson shirt, was being mailed to his girlfriend, To accommodate their time- said. “I put my head down, and then it Jenna. challenged customers, members of the was Christmas.” “I’m a pretty last-minute guy,” he 111th Postal Company under the 22nd In his box, he placed a CD of photos, said. “I’m hoping it will make it in Personnel Services Battalion and the a sweater for his wife Shannon, and a time.” 732nd Expeditionary Mission Support DVD of himself wishing his family a Staff Sgt. Jennifer B. Olson, a postal clerk with the 11th Postal Platoon under the 22nd Personnel Services Battalion O’Brien said he and his girlfriend Group even set up at one of the base Merry Christmas. He had already sent and the 732nd Expeditionary Mission Support Group, helps agreed to exchange only one small gift recreation centers one afternoon to help his Christmas cards and received his a customer. get the mail out before the deadline. Christmas present from his wife. East side Postmaster Tech Sgt. Victor “I’m crossing my fingers and hoping S. Negron of Queens, N.Y., said the it won’t be (late),” Davidson said.

At right, Capt. Willie Morgan of Augusta, Ga., personnel officer for the 324th Signal Battalion, Spc. Pete J. O’Brien of Woodstown, N.J., a calvary scout with the 5th squadron, 117th Cavalry Regiment, prepares packs presents for his wife and her family after having them inspected by Senior Airman to send his girlfriend her Christmas present. The two agreed to send a small gift now and celebrate the season in Keith A. Becker of Chicago Ill., a postal clerk with the 11th Postal Platoon under the 22nd full when he gets home. Personnel Services Battalion and the 732nd Expeditionary Mission Support Group.

13th SC(E) Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Michael J. Terry ANACONDA TIMES Chief of the Anaconda Consolidated Press Center Staff Writers Anaconda Times is authorized for publication by the 13th Sustain- Maj. Jay Adams Sgt. Gary A. Witte [email protected] [email protected] ment Command (Expeditionary) for the LSA Anaconda community. Sgt. KaRonda Fleming The contents of the Anaconda Times are unofficial and are not to be 210th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Commander [email protected] considered the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Maj. Kirk Slaughter Sgt. Kevin McSwain including the Department of Defense or Operation Iraqi Freedom. [email protected] [email protected] Anaconda Times is a command information newspaper in ac- Sgt. Joel F. Gibson Print OIC [email protected] cordance with Army Regulation 360-1. Capt. Perry Jarmon Spc. Amanda Solitario Anaconda Times is published weekly by the Stars and Stripes [email protected] [email protected] central office, with a circulation of 5,000 papers. The Public Affairs Office is on New Jersey Ave. in building 4136, Editor Sgt. 1st Class Mark Bell Contributing Public Affairs Offices DSN 318-829-1234. Anaconda Times, HHC 13th SC(E), APO AE [email protected] 332 Air Expeditionary Wing 1/34 Brigade Combat Team 09391. Web site at www.mnf-iraq.com/publications_theater.htm 36th Combat Aviation Brigade 45th Sustainment Brigade 402nd Army Field Support Brigade 82nd Sustainment Brigade Contact Sgt. Gary A. Witte at [email protected] Copy Editor Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown 411 Engineer Brigade 593rd Corps Support Group [email protected] 164th Corps Support Group 15th Sustainment Brigade 657th Area Support Group DECEMBER 27, 2006 Anaconda Times PAGE 3 Waiting til the minute... Preston says Army is ready for 2007 Why is the logisitics Soldier an imprtant They are multi-skilled, and we are asking we made it a point to break down those barriers supporting a nation at war. We have more again ingredient to success for American forces Soldiers today to do some incredible things. and perceptions that there is a difference. than 230,000 Soldiers currently deployed to around the world? In some cases, we have artillery Soldiers If it wasn’t for the patch the Soldiers over 70 countries around the world. For all of our support and combat service doing convoy security or security around a wear, we wouldn’t be able to tell if they were We have Soldiers that we are asking to support Soldiers out there, they are really the forward operation base. Active, Guard or Reserve. do some really incredible things and in some backbone of the operations that we do over We have military police doing cases, we are asking them to deploy away here. nontraditional security with detainees and the What is Army Strong to you and what does from their families frequently. We say in the Army that the non- list goes on. it really mean? They are spending a year in combat, then commissioned officer is the backbone of So, when you look at what Soldiers are As we look at Army Strong across the coming home for about a year and then going the Army, well the logistics Soldiers are the doing across Iraq and Afghanistan, they are force, it really defines all Soldiers whether back to combat for a year. backbone of this operation. doing some really incredible things. it is Active, Guard or Reserve, regardless of Historically, as an Army, we have done We couldn’t do what we are doing over the career field occupational specialty. All a magnificent job at working ourselves out here as an Army or as a nation for all the Today’s Army depends heavily on National of our Soldiers are doing incredible things. of a job, And when I listen to the combatant services if it weren’t for Anaconda and the Guard and Reserve forces for operational When we define Army Strong it is really tied commanders General Abizaid and General linkage with all the combat service support needs, has the Army moved from barriers to the Soldier’s Creed and our Warrior Ethos Casey, they talk about the success and Soldiers over here. that seperate active-duty and citizen and the Warrior Ethos has been our Ethos for progress we have made over here and they Solders? 231 years. talk about the way ahead. What defines the American Soldier as we Yes, After the attacks of 911, we are more I believe we are going to have progress. go into 2007? joint and combined now than we have ever What advice would you give Soldiers who As we continue to work ourselves out of a I would say in 2007, as you look at all of been. are considering to make the Army a life- job as we have done in other deployments, you the Soldiers across the board, Soldiers today When you look at the Army specifically, long career? will see that we will increase the predictability are pentathletes. Active, Guard and Reserve, it is one fight and Right now, we are an Army at war, and stability for Soldiers and their families.

Photo by Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown Command Sgt. Maj. Terry Fountain, the 13th SC(E) command sergeant major and other sergeants major from LSA Anaconda welcome Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth Preston, Multi-National Force - Iraq Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey J. Mellinger, and Multi-National Force Corps-Iraq Command Sgt. Maj. Neil Ciotola. What is your new year’s resolution and why? Sgt. Ryan Nilson Sgt. 1st Class Zachary E. Miller E. Zachary Class 1st Sgt. Muniz Christel Spc. Spc. Jesse Strege Jesse Spc. 332 Air Expeditionary Wing 1/34 Brigade Combat Team “I won’t take my family or home for “Assure that my Soldiers and I “To spend more time with my “Clear the slate and start all over 36th Combat Aviation Brigade 45th Sustainment Brigade 402nd Army Field Support Brigade 82nd Sustainment Brigade granted anymore.” make it home safely.” family.” again.” 411 Engineer Brigade 593rd Corps Support Group 164th Corps Support Group 15th Sustainment Brigade 657th Area Support Group PAGE 4 Anaconda Times DECEMBER 27, 2006 Photo by Sgt. Maj. Mark Schulz Command Sgt. Maj. Ruben Vela, command sergeant major of the 402nd stands in front of a color guard from the 146th Multi-Functional Medical Battalion of Grand Ledge, Mich. Photo by Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown Photo by Spc. Col. John O’Connor of Toledo, Ohio, the outgoing commander of the

Photo by Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown 402nd Army Field Support Brigade-Iraq, passes off his unit’s Colors Col. George Sorensen of Redmond, Wash., the new commander of the 402nd Army Field Support Brigade-Iraq addresses his new to senior commander, Brig. Gen. Patricia E. McQuistion during the troops in a speech during a change of command ceremony Dec. 15. ceremony. Field support mission changes leadership story by Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown LSA ANACONDA, Iraq—Col. George Sorensen Sorensen said. O’Connor said it had been a blessing to command took over command of the 402nd Army Field The 402nd AFSB is responsible for command, the 402nd for the past 14 months, and he couldn’t Support Brigade-Iraq from Col. John O’Connor in a control, and coordination of all U.S. Army Materiel think of a more important job than commanding change-of-command ceremony here Dec. 15. Command units and missions in Iraq. It is currently troops. “It’s truly an honor to stand before you as the new responsible for nearly 35,000 military and civilian “To the 402nd team, a new commander has taken commander of this great organization,” Sorensen said personnel who carry out the field support mission. over, and I charge you to support him as well and during his speech. “There’s no better job than leading The brigade carries out a wide variety of tasks as enthusiastically as you have supported me,” Soldiers, civilians, and contractors at the point of a including adding armor to vehicles, repairing O’Connor said. spear sustaining our warriors on the battlefield.” Strykers, maintaining a fleet of vehicles to swap out Although new command is taking over, the Sorensen, from Redmond, Wash., came to if a unit’s breaks, repairing radios and computers and mission to keep equipment and personnel running in Anaconda from his most recent assignment as a Warlocks. Iraq at all costs will not change. logistics staff officer in Headquarters, Department of “The 402nd is an amazing organization, like no “Keep moving forward and continue to execute the Army, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff. other; it brings together people from all walks of missions at the same high standards,” Sorensen said “I am committed to maintaining the exceptional life…what they do is save lives each and every day; to the civilians and Soldiers assigned to the 402nd. reputation of this brigade both in support of the Soldier for that simple fact alone, I say thank you,” O’Connor “Although the future is uncertain, I know you’re and in representing Army Materiel Command,” said in his handing-over speech. ready for a new challenge.”

Rememberance “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” Martin Luther King January 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. MWR East Recreation Center Essay Contest MLK 5-Kilometer Run General Information - Two page, double space For more information, or to register: For more information, or to help out, - Descriptive of the man call 829-4001 please call 829 -1915 - Discloses interesting facts or email: or email Sgt. 1st Class Leotin Kent at: - Introduces not so well known aspects of his life [email protected] [email protected] - Effects of his efforts on civil rights movement [email protected] - His MO DECEMBER 27, 2006 Our Neighbors PAGE 5 ControlCombat Stress

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Staff Sgt. Don Meyer is part of a combat logistical patrol team on the road outside Relaxation Techniques Contingency Operating Base Speicher, near Tikrit, Iraq. Monday to Saturday 11 a.m. to noon

Stress Management Wednesday and Saturday Ride the red horse 10 to 11 a.m. story and photos by Air Force Maj. Richard Sater Tech. Sgt. Thomas Hubal is part of a construction team building two “sea huts” for use as Army office space. Home Front Issues Tuesday and Friday CAMP SPEICHER, Iraq -- Don’t let the units and expecting them to pull as one team Engineer Brigade, headquartered southeast 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. color fool you. This is no merry-go-round. could present a huge obstacle. of here at LSA Anaconda. RED HORSE stands for Rapid Engineer However, Garner credits the month-long “We work in conjunction with the Deployable Heavy Operational Repair combat skills and task-validation training at Army engineers here,” Garner said (A Conflict Resolution Squadron Engineers. Maybe the name is a Fort McCoy, Wisc., and Camp Buerhring, facility-engineering team) “puts together Tuesday and Friday little cryptic (and repetitive), but the image Kuwait, as the catalyst in building those key a plan and then comes to us for design and 10 to 11 a.m. is exactly right: a roan horse charging ahead, relationships. construction.” proud, strong and unstoppable - like the 557th “We had 30 to 40 days of working together More than 50 civil engineering units have Anger Management Expeditionary RED HORSE Squadron. before we got here,” he said. “It’s made contributed airmen to the 557th, active duty Wednesday and Saturday You want a road built? New living quarters things easier. We knew our capabilities, and and Reserve component, with the centerpiece 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. from the ground up, or an old building we jumped right into the work.” being two sister Air National Guard units, the demolished? And you want it done quickly? Adminstratively, the 557th falls under 202nd RED HORSE from Camp Blanding, Anxiety Awareness RED HORSE is your animal, tackling heavy the 732nd Expeditionary Mission Support Fla., and the 203rd. Tuesday and Friday construction right here and right now. Group of the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Command-and-control of the 557th is The 557th ERHS consists of approximately at Balad Air Base. Tactically, however, the centered at Balad Air Base under Col. Jack 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. 400 Airmen filling billets in lieu of Army 557th reports to the U.S. Army’s 411th Paschal, who commands the 202nd back in engineers, working at a dozen locations the States. Sleep Hygiene throughout Iraq. The 202nd and 203rd have provided the Monday and Thursday The most concentrated group, some 250 majority of RED HORSE units contributing 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. strong, is located here, near the city of Tikrit. Airmen to the 557th. There is “more work being done at Speicher The rest come from Air Force Prime Goal Setting than at any other” forward-operating base, BEEF (Base Emergency Engineering Force) Wednesday according to Lt. Col. Pete Garner, officer in units - active duty as well as National Guard - 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. charge of the RED HORSE detachment here, around the globe, from Hawaii to Germany. deployed from the Virginia Air National But individual designations mean little Guard’s 203rd RED HORSE Squadron, over here. “We’re all the same team. Unit Depression Awareness Virginia Beach. designations don’t mean anything over here Monday and Tuesday It’s big work. Hard work. On any day here, - you’re part of the HORSE,” Paschal said. 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. you will find Airmen building a “C” hut, The new rotation of the 557th ERHS has erecting a clamshell tent, patching spalls on only been on the ground for a week, and it’s Communication Skills an aircraft parking ramp, paving a new stretch already charging ahead full-speed with that Monday and Thursday of road, conducting a route reconnaissance project list from the Army. 10 to 11 a.m. mission outside the perimeter, fixing an The last RED HORSE team - primarily engine on a humvee, and more. consisting of Airmen from the 823rd RHS Women’s Group The work is mostly outdoors, and the out of Hurlburt Field, Fla., augmented by Thursday tools are mostly big and noisy, jackhammers, Prime BEEF units - completed projects bulldozers, nail guns, power saws, .50- valued at an estimate of $25 million, and 8 to 9 p.m. caliber rifles. Paschal is confident his group will match or Clearly, part of the satisfaction - and part even eclipse that mark. Combat Addictions Group of the fun - of being a RED HORSE-back Only just out of the starting gate for a six- Wednesday rider is the variety of tasks assigned and the month deployment, the 557th reports high 7 to 8 p.m. commitment required to complete them. morale from its high horse. The horse won’t gallop without teamwork, “We’re here to improve the quality of life of course. Every project is a group effort, for the folks who have to go outside the wire for more information, email: three, four or 20 Airmen with a common Staff Sgt. Jennifer Davidson attatches a Hellfire - doing their part to stabilize the country,” [email protected] aim. flashlight to the 50-caliber rifle in the turret of a Garner said. “Whatever we can do to make Bringing people together from different humvee. their job a little easier, we’ll do it.” PAGE 6 Anaconda Times DECEMBER 27, 2006 Big toys keep 13th SC(E) moving through Iraq by Sgt. Raheem Lay unteer with pride as they execute their missions. 15th Sustainment Brigade “When I joined the Army Na- CAMP TAJI, Iraq – When tional Guard, my earnest inten- large things need to be moved tions were to get an education from point A to point B, com- and serve my country,” said Spc. manders call on the big “toys” to Angela Harsh from Paducah, Ky. get things in and around Iraq. The “I am thankful for being born and Army unveils Light 911 for this mission is the Mis- raised here (in the U.S.). I never sissippi Army National Guard’s thought I would love the military Utility Helicopter 1687th Combat Heavy Equipment so much. It grew on me.” Transporter (HET) Company from Harsh said the best part about UH-72A Lakota Southhaven. her deployment is putting on her Photo by Sgt. Raheem Lay Since arriving here in October, Company commander Capt. Emanuel Barber checks out current mission uniform each day. COLUMBUS, Miss. - Gen. Richard A. Capt. Emanuel Barber and his tracker this morning before conducting morning briefing. “I enjoy working side by side Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, and Soldiers have been busy moving feel the same way I do,” he said. Several Soldiers of the 1687th with a battle buddy who came Joe RedCloud, a chief of the Oglala Sioux the extra-large cargo around Iraq. Prior to the deployment in bring the experience of previous from a different walk in life than Tribe, Lakota Nation, accepted the Army’s The company’s responsibilities support of the 13th Sustainment deployments with them. I have,” she said. “We share the first Lakota Light Utility Helicopter, UH- include the movement of supplies Command (Expeditionary), based “I wanted to assist with the same feelings about the military 72A, in a ceremony here today. and equipment that support U.S. at LSA Anaconda, the 1687th mental preparation of Soldiers and the American people. It is up “The Light Utility Helicopter - from and coalition forces throughout operated medium trucks which who have never been over in to us to protect America.” concept development to material fielding Iraq. Although these missions may hauled packaged goods such as theatre. Knowing that there are “It is very difficult to leave to rapid deployment - is not only serving be uncomfortable, dangerous, and food, supplies, materials, and Soldiers with past experience… your loved ones behind; howev- as a catalyst for change across the Army, even intimidating, Barber said his equipment on stateside missions, makes the transition and adapta- er, I knew the obligations of the it is also accelerating the speed of Army Soldiers embrace the challenges according to Barber, who is from tion stages much more bearable military prior to me joining. I feel aviation modernization and integration that lay ahead. Heidelberg, Miss. than not having any experience that I am making a difference and with other services and government agen- “To me, that’s what being a He said this mission requires at all,” said veteran Sgt. 1st Class helping to provide a better safety cies,” said Cody. Soldier is about,” said Spc. Esmus the Soldiers to drive military ve- Douglas Laney, the operations net for my wife and kids,” said The Army has a long-standing tradition Franklin of Belzoni, Miss. “Being hicles which are three times the NCO from Tupelo, Miss. Spc. Derek Booth of Horn Lake, of using American Indian names, such as able to execute a tactical mission size and weight of a normal trac- Laney said his Soldiers vol- Miss. terms, tribes and chiefs for its helicopters. and believing that you will get the tor trailers on the hostile roads of In the case of the Lakota aircraft, the link- job done regardless of how dan- Iraq. age is between the Lakota legacy as stal- gerous the mission may be.” “This will be a significant wart defenders of their homeland and the Franklin said because military challenge for the Soldiers as well nature of the aircraft’s intended domestic personnel make up a small slice of as their families,” Barber said. missions. the American population, serving “However, the members of this “We’re pleased that you honor our tribe here in Iraq makes it more spe- unit have a wealth of experience, by naming this helicopter Lakota. You are cial. great work ethic, and high level not only honoring our past, you are recog- “We are the few chosen ones, of motivation. Just like the unit’s nizing that we are still here, joint partners which means a lot to me and prob- motto says, ‘Packhorse will get it in the heritage of the promise of America,” ably to a lot of other Soldiers who done.’” RedCloud told the audience. The fielding of the LUH is part of an ongoing Army-level effort to transform its aviation capability through the deliberate LTC Russell D. Rogers reinvestment of funds from the canceled [email protected] Army Reserve Affairs 2004 Comanche program. SSG Brandon D. Fambro The Army National Guard will receive [email protected] Building 4135 the majority of the 322 new aircraft. Initial SSG Annette Tyler aircraft will be sent to the National Train- [email protected] ing Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., for medi- SSG Melinda P. Baldwin DSN: (318) 829-1113 cal evacuation missions in January 2007. [email protected] The UH-72A Lakotas will replace UH-60 Black Hawks, which will be transferred to the National Guard for operational mis- sions. “The Lakota heralds a new beginning for our Army and for our communities join the Army’s premiere job across every state,” said Cody. “It is our as a nation’s responsibility and the Army’s duty to provide our National Guard Soldiers with the tools they need to respond fully and rapidly to homeland security missions and national disasters. “This exceptional platform will fly for Broadcast journalist years to come in America’s skies. It is an The Army public affairs branch is There are several requirements for A VOICE AUDITION IS MANDATORY aircraft we needed and we are proud to see increasing active-duty authorizations interested Soldiers: Interested? Please contact the public it take flight,” he said. in the 46R (Broadcast Public Affairs 1. Reserve/Guard Soldiers must go on affairs branch manager, Sgt. 1st Class The UH-72A is a commercial aircraft Specialist) career field. Soldiers active duty to qualify. Jim Guzior at [email protected]. in the career field learn television, 2. Must be of the E-1 to E-5 pay grade mil for details. His phone number designed to conduct light general support radio, announcing and writing skills. (E-5 must be nonpromotable). is (703) 325-2578 and his DSN line is tasks in permissive, non-combat environ- 50 percent of the positions are with 3. Have at least a 107 GT Score. (312) 221-2578. ments. Those tasks include civil search and the Armed Forces Network. It’s an 4. Must maintain a Secret clearance or rescue, personnel recovery, evacuation, extremely civilian-marketable job skill. an interim secret clearance. counter-drug and limited civil command 5. Must be deployable Soldiers from any MOS are eligible. 6. Most P2 profiles are OK, but check and control operations in the conduct of with the public affairs branch manager. Homeland Security. December 27, 2006 Anaconda Times PAGE 7

Sports anchor Leeann Tweeden talks with Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth O. Preston at Balad Air Base on LSA Anaconda during their arrival Dec. 20. Preston stresses Army standards, leadership story and photos by Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown

LSA ANACONDA, Iraq— The 13th Sgt. Maj. of the Army, piece of the Army,” Preston said to his junior-enlisted audience. Kenneth O. Preston, visited Anaconda bringing with him an “When sergeants stop enforcing on-the-spot corrections, that’s array of celebrities and entertainment for his 2006 Hope and when things start to slip. Know the standard, enforce the Freedom Tour, just five days before Christmas. standard, be the standard …and lead by example.” Preston visited wounded servicemembers at the Air Force Preston also addressed questions on pay differences between Theatre Hospital and held a question-and-answer session with married and single Soldiers, the re-organization of the Army, junior-enlisted Soldiers, as well as taking a short trip to Ramadi and plans for future deployments. and back before the show. “I’m very proud of all of you,” Preston said. “There isn’t During the question-and-answer portion of his visit, Preston a day that goes by that we (at the Pentagon) don’t look at and stressed the importance of setting standards in today’s Army, review the missions you are completing over here.” and the NCO’s role in leadership. Spc. Shaunreika C. Moten of Huston, Texas, an administrative “Now that you are a sergeant, you are responsible for a little specialist with 1st of the 149th Aviation Battalion said she learned from the session. “It was cool,” Moten said. “It’s not every day you get to meet the Sergeant Major of the Army. It definitely updated me with a lot of information.” Preston, who has held his current position since 2004, said he makes a trip to Iraq about four times per year so he can get a personal feel for the conditions here. As Sergeant Major of the Army, Preston’s main duties lie in enlisted-related matters, especially training and quality of life. He spends a majority of his time traveling throughout the Army observing Soldiers at work. “Be sure to go back to ‘hometown U.S.A.’ and tell the Soldier’s story,” he stressed. Preston also promoted his tour, by saying it is intended to motivate Soldiers, and hopes that goal is accomplished. “Yes, I’ve made claims that this is the best United Service Organization show in history,” Preston said. “If you don’t walk out of there totally pumped-up, you need a heart transplant.” The Sergeant Major of the Army and his show stopped at several locations before coming to Anaconda, and will visit Afghanistan before returning to the States.

(Clockwise from above) Setting and maintaining standards were among the top themes covered in the Sergeant Major of the Army question-and-answer session. Preston speaks with Command Sgt. Maj. Terry Fountain, the 13th SC(E) command sergeant major, and Command Sgt. Maj. Jorge Young, command sergeant major of the 657th Area Support Group after a tour of the Air Force Theater Hospital here. Preston addresses junior- enlisted Soldiers at a question-and-answer session. The Sergeant Major of the Army is greeted by LSA Anaconda Soldiers as he lands Dec. 20. PAGE 8 Anaconda Times DECEMBER 27, 2006 DECEMBER 27, 2006 Anconda Times PAGE 9

American and Iraqi soldiers unload donations during the recent trip to Mosul. Iraqi soldiers talk to a local youth as she walks to school. Iraqi and American troops work together during a recent goodwill mission in Mosul. Commanders cross language barriers to better one Iraqi community story and photos by Maj. Kirk Slaughter

MOSUL, Iraq – In one of the most dan- first school to the second school. Iraqi adults As the two commanders walked back up gerous and poverty-stricken areas of Mosul, and children seemed excited, and smiles the street to their vehicles off in the distance two battalion commanders set out to bring could be seen on their faces, as they walked one could hear the sounds of two suspected happiness to Iraqi school children. along the sidewalks and occasionally made bombs go off. Lt. Col. Steven Eveker, commander of the contact with IA and American soldiers. More than 1,000 children, ages 7-13, re- 352nd Corp Support Battalion, and Lt. Col. The two commanders led the parade of ceived school book supplies and candy dur- Mohammed Ibrihim Belal, commander of soldiers, the unit ministry team, and report- ing this joint humanitarian mission. the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Brigade of the 2nd Di- ers through what used to be labeled as a very “For our soldiers to see the indigent popu- vision of the Iraqi Army, worked numerous dangerous street in Mosul. lation and feeling the effects of a war torn days coordinating between Mosul officials, “Lt. Col. Eveker is very well-liked, trusted nation in the daylight was a memory that the chaplains office at Forward Operating and respected in the 222nd IA and through- will be forever etched in their minds,” Sgt. Base Diamondback, and Iraqi and American out the community of Mosul,” Mohammad Charles Sebok, 352nd CSB Chaplains assis- Positioned on a nearby rooftop, an Iraqi soldier keeps a watchful eye out for any trouble during the troops. said. “He is a good man and we work well tant, said. recent mission into Mosul. “This was one of the largest joint hu- together, and that is why we can do humani- manitarian missions conducted in Mosul tarian missions like this.” during daylight hours since Operation Iraqi “Lt. Col. Mohammad understands the Freedom,” Eveker said. “Most missions con- complexities of the military, economic, po- ducted by the 352nd CSB occur under cur- litical, and religious challenges for the city few hours, which really limit the Soldiers’ of Mosul,” Eveker said. “This is what makes contact with the local population.” him a great leader and commander. He is The operation included more than 1,400 fighting for a free Iraq and a more demo- small bags of school supplies, 35 kerosene cratic Iraq. His soldiers are very disciplined American and Iraqi forces work together during a recent mission to find the best solution for a situtation during thier Mosul operation. heaters, more than 50 boxes of clothes, more and that is why we were able to walk down than 200 umbrellas, and 42 backpacks that the streets of this city while they protected were ready to be delivered to about 1,350 us.” children at two schools in downtown Mosul, Once inside the second school, the two Chaplain (Capt.) Mark Cisco said. commanders met with the school principal, “The initial planning for the mission be- who appeared surprised at the visit. A short gan in early October,” Cisco said. “Numer- meeting – with tea – took place, then both ous email messages and letters were mailed commanders went into a classroom and to friends, families, churches, and supporters started handing out school supplies to the of the 352nd CSB requesting school supplies, students. clothing, and heaters for the classrooms.” “When we first went into these schools Approximately 30 soldiers from the 352nd the children appeared terrified and scared CSB, 1345th Transportation Company, 714th of the Iraqi soldiers and me,” Eveker said. Ordinance Detachment (Corps Support Com- “The most rewarding thing about this mis- pany), and the 399th Combat Support Hospi- sion was how quiet, timid, and thankful tal, went out into the community and inter- these children were. And as we left their acted with residents while being protected classrooms they would burst out with laugh- by the Iraqi Army, which was pre-positioned ter and excitement as to what had just hap- on rooftops and street corners during the two pened.” hour mission. “Can we make an impact on every child A casual conversation took place between in Mosul? Probably not,” he said. “But we the two commanders as they walked down did make an impact on the children we saw the middle of the streets of Mosul from the today.” Protected by an armored vehicle, an Iraqi soldier keeps his automatic weapon pointed toward any possible trouble spots during a recent mission. Sgt. Michael Hunt, with the help of an Iraqi soldier, unloads a portable heater during a recent goodwill mission in Mosul. DECEMBER 27, 2006 Anaconda Times PAGE 10

The Best Damn Sports Show Period host Leeann Tweeden gets down with servicemembers with the “lawnmower” dance. Preston, entertainment entourage raise spirits A Dallas Cowboy cheerleader gives one Soldier an extra special dance. story and photo by Spc. Amanda Solitario LSA ANACONDA, Iraq— making those sacrifices so that all Santa may not have been able to Americans can enjoy that time at visit Iraq this year, but the Sgt. Maj. home in peace.” of the Army, Kenneth O. Preston, Preston said the concert is his spread some holiday cheer here way of showing the servicemembers Dec. 20. that their service to the nation never Servicemembers sang, danced, goes unnoticed. and laughed for more than three “I remind Soldiers over here that hours as entertainers of the Sergeant all of America is greatly thankful Major of the Army’s Hope and for their contributions, and what Freedom Tour stormed the stage they are doing right now in the just days before Christmas. fight on the Global War on Terror,” Touring with Preston this year Preston said. Country music singer Mark Wills entertains more than 800 Country music singer Darryl Worley and Leeann Tweeden were country music singers Mark Each entertainer had a unique servicemembers at LSA Anaconda. sign autographs after the show. Wills, Darryl Worley, Keni Thomas, reason for coming on the tour. Some As the night progressed, things and Shevy Smith. Hip-hop brother have personal ties to the military, got a little hands-on as Wills taught and sister duet, Jekob and Rachael and for others it has become a Soldiers the proper technique for Washington, joined the tour for a tradition to return year after year. congratulating someone on a “good second year but with a new name, Thomas, a former Army Ranger game” with a slap on the backside. the Washington Projects. The U.S. and a performer during last year’s The crowd never stopped laughing Army Band performed some top tour, said he owes it to the Soldiers as Franken and Tweeden put on American hits and sang back up for to come out here and share his a skit impersonating former Iraqi all of the musical guests. talents during the holiday season. dictator, Saddam Hussein, and The concert was peppered “It’s a no-brainer,” he said. “I his potential last requests before with comical interludes by best- will do it until the day they tell me execution. selling author and comedian Al I can’t.” With all the laughter Franken, and model and host of The Willie has a cousin on Anaconda, throughout the evening, Worley Best Damn Sports Show Period, Sgt. 1st Class Darryl Derrick, was able to bring tears to some Leeann Tweeden. Dallas Cowboys platoon sergeant for A. Battery, 17th servicemembers’ eyes as he sang his Cheerleaders, Shenythia Willie Field Artillery, who she was able to hit, “Have You Forgotten,” while and Laura Beke, braved the cold see for the first time in over a year. a Soldier marched across the stage temperatures to heat up the night “I had to hold back my tears with the American flag. with their popular dance routines. when I saw him because I knew I Worley told the audience that For the last three years, Preston was going out on stage,” she said. much of his inspiration for his brought smiles to troops’ faces Aside from their personal songs comes from the troops. during the holiday season with convictions, all of the entertainers After a previous tour in Iraq, United Service Organization came together to express their he went home and wrote, “I Just sponsored event. deepest gratitude to each of the men Came Back From a War,” which A singer with the Washington Projects sings a special solo song to Sgt. 1st “This is a special time of year and women in the military. he performed for hundreds of Class Darryl Derrick during the USO tour here on Anaconda. that most Americans like to take “I think it is more than just a screaming fans. vacations, be with the family, do morale booster,” Preston said. “I Worley said the passion and “These things just inspire me to their favorite entertainer and get family reunions, and spend time think it is important because all the pride in the troops never ceases to be a better person and go that extra autographs. together,” Preston said. “This entertainers that I bring out here amaze him, and it touches him each mile,” he said. Balad was the last performance year these Soldiers that are here are so honest and sincere, and they and every time he comes to the After the show, servicemembers for the tour in Iraq, before it headed deployed on freedom’s frontier are speak from their heart.” Middle East. were able to take photographs with to Afghanistan. DECEMBER 27, 2006 Anaconda Times PAGE 11 Red Bulls validate vehicles at boarder crossing Iowa Soldiers at Camp Korean Village FOB TREBIL, Iraq – A small group of here, and the 133rd and the 1st Brigade play a AR RUTBAH, Iraq – When a convoy of in the morning because there is break down Soldiers from the 1st Battalion 133rd Infantry big part of that,” Aarhus said. up to 150 contractor-driven trucks and trail- after break down,” Klink said. and a handful of Florida Army Reserve Sol- He said this port of entry is among three ers, escorted by about 30 convoy protection Sgt. Steven Long, a mechanic, said that diers play a huge role in moving commodities into Iraq. The other two are on the Kuwait vehicles from the 1st Battalion, 133rd Infan- his hours can vary from four to 24 hours. “It from Jordan to Al Asad. and Turkish borders. Unlike those two which try, rolls into a tiny Marine Corps outpost just depends on the day,” he said. “The me- They ensure that contracted trucks and take a minimum of 45 days to move the com- named Camp Korean Village, the Soldiers chanics’ challenge is the “time crunch.” trailers are able to make the 300-mile, one- modities, Trebil takes less than a week. know they will be taken care of. “We have a very short time to get the ve- way trip by inspecting each rig near the Jor- Aarhus said these commodities include, Once they reach this base that was for- hicles mission capable and back on the road,” dan border for “road worthiness.” Reasons fuel, vehicles, armored parts, material for liv- merly used to house Korean construction he said. these trucks would be rejected and sent back ing quarters, and food for the bigger dining workers working on the Anman-Baghdad Klink’s Soldiers also provide intelligence to the Jordan border include bald tires, miss- facilities in Iraq. Highway, they will find comfortable housing debriefs to all convoys, and 24/7 guards at ing spare tires, cracks in the frames of the “The commodities that we’re moving (cots with mattresses in a wooden building), the drivers lot to ensure that the drivers don’t trailers and massive engine oil leaks. The across here are of extremely high impor- some of the best food in Iraq at the small din- wander on the base. Soldiers man the guard driver or the driver’s company is responsible tance,” he said. ing facility, experienced mechanics to work tower in shifts. for the repairs. Aarhus said there have been days with as on their vehicles and even a small Post Ex- Spc. John Toyne of Muscatine, Iowa, said Maj. Todd Aarhus of Marshalltown, Iowa, many as 205 trucks and days with only 70 change. he feels being a guard “is a good job to do.” the officer in charge of the Iowa Army Na- trucks in the convoys. All this is coordinated by a small contin- Klink also has assigned one of his Soldiers tional Guard Soldiers assigned to the 1st Bri- Aarhus’ team lives in air-conditioned and gent from the battalion commanded by 1st to the base’s Command Operation Center. gade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, heated wooden huts. There is also a small Lt. Chris Klink of Ankeny, Iowa. This allows him to be in direct contact with said his team has inspected more than 14,000 dining facility, a shower trailer, a restroom The busiest section in Klink’s contingent the Marines for medical evacuation opera- trucks and had more than 110 convoys leave trailer and a day room where the group can is the mechanics. Upon arrival, each escort tions and the removal of explosive ordnance. Trebil since arriving in April. watch American Forces Network TV. vehicle is inspected by the mechanics. “So we can react as quickly as possible with “It is a very, very high profile port of entry “We’re getting by OK,” Aarhus said. “There are nights they work until 3 o’clock our guys,” Klink said.

UPGRADES, from Page 1 lease,” said Heaton. “Should a fire break out in the vehicle, schedule, he said. Every major command in Iraq has an ap- the standard door handles also serve as an emergency hatch pointed Add-on-Armor Induction Manager who issues Add- The gunner sits in a suspended, cushioned harness, which release, breaking the door away from the hinges.” on-Armor allocations based on the commander’s guidance. swings 360 degrees in a powered turret he operates with a joy- Dennison said his battalion, also known as the Sustain- Dennison expects maximum unit participation in the pro- stick. He also said the ballistic glass offers greater peripheral ment Battalion, wants to be the primary source of the add-on- gram. Dennison wants units to take advantage of this up- vision as well as added protection. armor installs to supported units. grade opportunity so the number of vehicles inducted closely Rhoades said the door panel kits are only available for “We have expanded the number of install sites within matches his battalion’s production capability. the M1114 models, but the O-GPK is also available for the Iraq,” he said. “We wanted to reduce the travel distance and “The two new armor systems provide over 2,000 pounds M1151 and the M1114. minimize time on dangerous routes for the Soldier.” of extra protection,” Dennison said. “And every Soldier saved “It’s like NASA,” said Jim Heaton, process improvement Once the program gets in full swing, Dennison said the makes it well worth its weight in gold.” manager for 1-402nd, concerning the emergency hatch sys- units will need these remote locations to achieve the goal of As some motor pools take days or a week waiting for tem. more than 2,000 upgrade installs a month. parts for a simple nut or bolt, Dennison said the battalion has “The doors give the troops a single-point emergency re- Thomas C. Labonte, the installation site leader for Taji, instituted remote installation sites and an assembly line type said the upgrades will catch on quickly. installation process to reduce the time Soldiers are away from “This is going fast,” he said, whose their vehicles. mechanics started production on Nov. 1. With crews working long hours to ensure Soldiers get the “I expect we’ll get up to 30, possibly 40 latest armor upgrades quickly, changes were quickly made to installs per week once we reach peak pro- the installation process. duction.” George Eaton, 402nd Historian, said that MNC-I has rein- “As long as the customer brings the forced the unit participation by assigning more than 100 Sol- vehicles prepped for install, we can move diers to assist in the installation of the kits. a vehicle out in two days,” said Labonte. “This will allow for 24-hour operations at the install sites,” “Prepped for install” means the vehicle is he said. clean, and clear of debris and personal ef- Eaton said there are now Soldiers working in the program fects in order for the installation crew to at every install site in Iraq. start work immediately. “I expect maximum usage of all our add-on armor facili- Unfortunately, Dennison said units ties thereby enhancing force protection for those that need it cannot drive up to the Sustainment Bat- most -- the war fighter,” Dennison said. “It is worth the 40 talion expecting armor installs like they man-hour install time. Soldier’s will be saved.” would an oil change at a service station. Hundreds of bolts, nuts, washers and other small parts are used to assemble the kits at the The MNC-I has instituted an induction Anaconda installation facility.

LSA AnacondReligiousa R schedulee subjectligiou to change s Schedule Roman Catholic Mass Sunday 1 p.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 11:30 a.m. Freedom Chapel Sunday 5:30 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel Saturday 5 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel Sunday 4 p.m. Freedom Chapel Sunday 2 p.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel Sunday 8:15 p.m. Air Force Hospital Saturday 8 p.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 7 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel Sunday 7 p.m. Provider Chapel Non-Denominational Sunday 7:30 a.m. Freedom Chapel Church of Christ Protestant Praise and Worship Sunday 9 a.m. Signal Chapel Sunday 9 a.m. Tuskegee Chapel Sunday 2 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel Sunday 9 a.m. MWR East Building Non-Denominational Spanish Sunday 5:30 p.m. Provider Chapel Islamic Prayer Sunday 9 a.m. Eden Chapel Sunday 2 p.m. Freedom Chapel Sunday 11 a.m. Air Force Hospital Friday 12:30 p.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 7 p.m. Freedom Chapel Protestant-Gospel Monday - Friday 5 p.m. Tuskegee Samoan Congregational Service Sunday 7:30 p.m. Eden Chapel Sunday 3:30 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel Sacrament of Reconciliation Sunday 4 p.m. Provider Chapel Wednesday 7 p.m. Freedom Chapel Protestant-Liturgical 30 minutes prior to each mass Friday Shabbat Service Protestant-Traditional Saturday 7:30 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel Protestant-Contemporary Friday 7 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel Sunday 9:30 a.m. Air Force Hospital Sunday 10 a.m. Town Hall Protestant-Gospel Sunday 9:30 a.m. Provider Chapel Latter Day Saints Sunday, 11 a.m. MWR East Building Sunday 10 a.m. Freedom Chapel PAGE 12 Anaconda Times DECEMBER 27, 2006

September 27 6 p.m. December 27 East MWR Fitness Center Aerobics 6 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ANACONDAYour one-stop connection to activities ACTIVITIES around LSA Anaconda Tae Kwon Do East MWR Fitness Center to add your activity to the event calendar, email [email protected] 7 to 8:30 p.m. East MWR Fitness Center Yoga Battlefield Ground Aerobics 100m Butterfly 6 p.m. 8 p.m. 8 p.m. 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu East MWR Fitness Center East Rec Center West MWR Fitness Center Indoor Pool 9 p.m. East MWR Fitness Center Boxing SeptemberDecember 29 29 Salsa Dance Spades Tourney 7:30 to 9 p.m. 8 p.m. 8 p.m. Green Bean Karaoke East MWR Fitness Center Aerobics East Rec Center West Recreation Center 8 p.m. 5:30 p.m. Green Bean Coffee Shop Rock Climbing Class East MWR Fitness Center Tae Kwon Do 4-4 Volleyball Tourney 8 p.m. 7 to 8:30 p.m. 8 p.m. 5-5 Basketball Tourney East MWR Fitness Center Boxing East MWR Fitness Center West MWR Fitness Center 8 p.m. 7:30 to 9 p.m. West MWR Fitness Center 8-Ball Tourney East MWR Fitness Center NOGI Jiu-Jitsu Caribbean Dance 8 p.m. 9 p.m. 8 p.m. Poker West Recreation Center Chess Tourney East MWR Fitness Center East Rec Center 8 p.m. 8 p.m. East Rec Center Madden ‘05 West Recreation Center Level 2 Swim Lessons OctoberJanuary 2 1 8 p.m. 7 p.m. OctoberJanuary 5 3 West Recreation Center 4-4 Volleyball Tourney Indoor Pool Aerobics 8 p.m. noon to 1 p.m. Aerobics 9-Ball Tourney West MWR Fitness Center Level 1 Swim Lessons East MWR Fitness Center 6 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. 8 p.m. 8 p.m. East MWR Fitness Center East Rec Center Caribbean Dance Indoor Pool Open Court Volleyball 8 p.m. 6 p.m. Boxing DJ Classes East Rec Center Command & Conquer East MWR Fitness Center 7:30 to 9 p.m. 8 p.m. 8 p.m. East MWR Fitness Center East Rec Center SeptemberDecember 30 30 West Recreation Center One-Mile Swim Race 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Rock Climbing Class SeptemberDecember 28 28 Aerobics Dodgeball Tourney Indoor Pool 8 p.m. noon to 1 p.m. 8 p.m. East MWR Fitness Center Tae Kwon Do East MWR Fitness Center West MWR Fitness Center Texas Hold’em 7 to 8:30 p.m. 8 p.m. One-Hour Swim-A-Thon East MWR Fitness Center Open Court Volleyball Texas Hold’em West Recreation Center Two-Person Teams 6 p.m. 8 p.m. 5:30 a.m. NOGI Jiu-Jitsu East MWR Fitness Center East Rec Center Aerobics Outdoor Pool 9 p.m. 8 p.m. East MWR Fitness Center 500m Fins/Kickboard SeptemberDecember 22 31 West MWR Fitness Center Jam Session 9 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. 8 p.m. Level 2 Swim Lessons Indoor Pool Aerobics Salsa Dance West Recreation Center 7 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 8 p.m. Indoor Pool Texas Hold’em East MWR Fitness Center East Rec Center Aerobics 8 p.m. 8 p.m. Level 1 Swim Lessons West Recreation Center Boxing OctoberJanuary 3 2 West MWR Fitness Center 8 p.m. 7:30 to 9 p.m. Indoor Pool East MWR Fitness Center Open Court Volleyball A New Years Eve Sports Extravaganza Superbowl XX Championship Quarterback Jim McMahon and kicker Kevin Butler Karri Turner from the hit television series JAG

visit your local MWR facility for times & locations DECEMBER 27, 2006 Anaconda Times PAGE 13 Fill in as many boxes as you can to form 11 different words starting with the YOUR WORD LIST given letters. Words starting with a capital letter, foreign words, contractions ALL FOURS F M C H and abbreviations are not allowed. No letter may be repeated in the word How many four-letter itself, in the word above, or in the word below. For each word, the number words can you find in the of letters needed to earn the maximum score is indicated by the number of diagram by moving from A boxes. letter to adjacent letter up, Z E R SCORING: down, forward and diago- Each letter you use is worth one point. Give yourself a bonus of 10 points if nally? Do not return to a you us all 26 letters of the alphabet. Include the given letters in your score. square to repeat a letter I D O N in a word. Proper names, WORD SCORE abbreviations, contrac- tions and foreign words H E are not allowed. W T U L

c “quotefalls” S The letters in each vertical column go into the squares directly below them, but not necessarily in the order they B appear. A black square indicates the end of a word. When you have placed all the letters in their correct squares, you will be able to read a quotation across the diagram from left to right. E E N A T G E C E N T A N U I E E L H I F G O E N H T H F N R E N E M M N R F T R I B I T I O T O T R S P T F R W R L O S Y R S S D

B

C L

G

H

(Schedule is subject to change) dittos A E E E ______Wednesday, Dec. 27 Form five common 5-letter words by 5 p.m. The Departed (R) I I L L L using all the given letters and adding the ______8 p.m. Employee of the Month O R R U letter B as often as necessary. Cross off Y Y each given letter as you use them. _ _ _ _ _ Thursday, Dec. 28 5 p.m. We are Marshall (PG) Find your way from START to FINISH by passing through all the white squares one time 8 p.m. Man of the Year (PG-13) only. You may move up, down, and across, but not diagonally. heater Friday, Dec. 29 2 p.m. The Prestige (PG-13) T 5 p.m. Eragon (PG) 8:30 p.m. Texas Chainsaw Massacre ime Saturday, Dec. 30

T 2 p.m. Everyone’s Hero (G) 5 p.m. The Grudge 2 (PG-13) FINISH 8 p.m. Eragon (PG)

eel Sunday, Dec. 31 2 p.m. Eragon (PG) R 5 p.m. Flicka (PG) 8 p.m. The Grudge 2 (PG-13)

Monday, Jan. 1 5 p.m. The Prestige (PG-13) 8 p.m. Casino Royale (PG-13) tainer

u s Tuesday, Jan. 2 5 p.m. Casino Royale (PG-13)

S 8 p.m. Eragon (PG) START PAGE 14 Anaconda Times DECEMBER 27, 2006 Remote FARP keeps aircraft on mission Small band of 449th ASB Soldiers master the art of aerial logistics two weeks at a time story and photos by Master Sgt. Charles Wheeler

FOB NORMANDY, Iraq – Military lo- before. He was on the battalion’s advance gistics is the art and science of planning and party and spent 33 days working in the same carrying out the movement and maintenance location before going back to LSA Anaconda of military forces. and settling into his duties there. “I enjoyed A weapon without ammunition can not my first time working here,” Gerardo said. protect a Soldier. An aircraft without fuel can “When you stay busy and enjoy what you do, not fly a mission. time goes by quickly.” With the importance of Army aircraft on No matter if it is day or night, the Sol- the battlefield in Iraq, the need for quick ac- diers here all exhibit a very high morale and cess to fuel makes strategic placement of fuel dedication to duty. Depending on if any heli- points a combat multiplier. copters arrive, their 12-hour shift starts with The logistical answer to this need is a For- two or three hours of performing preventive ward Area Refuel Point (FARP). maintenance on their equipment, and clean- The Petroleum, Oil and Lubrication Sec- ing away the debris on the landing pad. tion, Company A, 449th Aviation Support There is always a Soldier monitoring the Battalion, 36th Combat Aviation Brigade, radio listening for an aircraft calling the Tac- rotates Soldiers to a FARP located at a re- tical Operations Center (TOC). Soldiers take a small break in between missions at a remote refueling site for helicopters. mote site known as Forward Operating Base This is how they know an aircraft is in- also has to be vigilant in maintaining proper Internet available for the Soldiers’ use. All of Normandy, Iraq. bound, however they will not know if an records on the history of fuel test results and these activities help keep the Soldiers’ minds These Soldiers know that they are saving aircraft is in need of fuel, unloading passen- corrective action taken to ensure the quality occupied in a positive direction and better lives by helping the aircraft stay engaged gers, or stopping for other reasons until they of fuel in the storage tanks stays high. enable them to sleep well and prepare for an- longer in areas away from large, established see which landing pad they are maneuvering When their shift is over, the Soldiers here other day at the FARP. bases. for. have a few diversions to occupy the time be- The Soldiers here quickly settle into their The Soldiers spend two weeks at the FARP “When we hear (aircraft) radio the TOC, fore they go to sleep. The area is quite small routine and find it is an enjoyable and re- working 12-hour shifts. They each pack one our operation tempo shifts into high gear and so everything is within five minutes walking warding experience. duffle bag with extra uniforms and other ne- we move into position,” said Sgt. Anthony distance of their sleeping areas, making it All of the logistics Soldiers working here cessities. Hernandez. “We do not know if they want readily accessible for all Soldiers. told stories of pilots relaying their apprecia- They then load onto an aircraft and fly to fuel until we see which pad they are landing There is a dining facility which has a sign tion and gratitude for the job they are doing. Normandy early on the morning of their first on, so it becomes a quick reaction drill.” posted in the short order line for HOOAH The air crews give them unit patches for day of the new shift. The crew they replace The excitement of an attack helicopter hamburgers and has seating in a few small keepsakes and often yell out inspirational spend a few hours briefing them on every- landing, and conducting a quick and safe re- rooms giving it the feel of being in some- compliments. thing from how often aircraft arrive, to how fuel is the highlight of their time here. There one’s house. Hernandez said his favorite was the pilot to function at night. is however a lot of less exciting but very Soldiers can also go to the Post Exchange, who yelled “You rock” when his crew got the This base observes total blackout each important work that makes this a successful identifiable by the yellow “Best Buy” sign Apache helicopter fueled and gave the pilots night, and if there is no moon, “You can’t see operation. placed near the entrance. Inside is a single a cold Gatorade in a very short time on a hot your hand in front of your face,” said Staff Every 30 days, samples must be precisely barber chair and a half-dozen seats for those day recently. Sgt. Jose Gerardo. “We use chemical lights extracted from each of the fuel storage tanks waiting for a haircut, and a 500 square-foot One morning when these Soldiers wake to work at night, so it is important that every- and submitted for an array of tests. The re- shopping area. up, two weeks will have passed, which is too one knows their job inside and out.” sults can tell these petroleum specialists if A recreation area is in a building adjacent soon for Gerardo, but it will be time to pack Gerardo is the night-shift noncommis- they need to change the various filters or to the dining facility with a ping-pong table, and prepare to move back to home base for sioned officer in charge and has been here make other adjustments. The shift NCOIC a well-stocked bookcase, and access to the a few weeks.

(Above) The Petroleum, Oil and Lubrication Section, Company A, 449th Aviation Support Battalion, 36th Combat Aviation Brigade, takes time after a successful mission to pose for a group photograph. (Left) A aircraft crew chief keeps a close eye on the FARP personnel to get final instructions before refueling the medical evacuation helicopter recently. DECEMBER 27, 2006 Anaconda Times PAGE 15 Remote FARP keeps aircraft on mission

Local Anaconda celebrity Sgt. Marc McNab, from the hit television series, “McNab on the Street” puts on his Santa suit, floppy hat and recognizable over-sized sun goggles and hits the post exchange area for another round of easy questions that everyone seems to miss. Pfc. Jenna M. Wood of Ozark, Mo., assigned to the 163rd Military Intelligence Battalion, battles with “Santa” McNab’s questions during a recent Newreel Anaconda episode.

Holiday Spiritphotos in by the AnacondaBalad Times Staff A small snapshot of servicemembers giving a little holiday cheer in the desert

Sgt. Travis Reid, the Resource Management NCOIC for the 13th SC(E), climbs a ladder to hang up some decorations.

Sgt. Jennifer Rockmore, with 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment, gets into Carrie Underwood takes a quick photograph with Spc. Chas costume and sings “Santa Baby” during a recent MWR Christmas show. “Santa” Grieve, 22, from Lincoln, Neb.

Spc. Chad Fritz, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) as a engineer technical specialist, enjoys the gifts during a recent unit party. Soldiers from the 13th SC(E) enjoyed a holiday party at the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Center East on Dec. 16. Soldiers sang Karaoke, met with Santa, and received a number of different Christmas presents.

Doris Hector (center) sings Gladys Knight & The Pips’ hit single,“Midnight Train to Georgia,” with the help of her friends during a recent holiday musical show at the West MWR Recreation Center here.