SATHER AIR BASE — The thought of a field hospital conjures up images of medics rolling battle-wounded troops on gurneys into a dimly lit operating room. The 447th Expeditionary Medical Squadron at Sather Air Base, at Baghdad International Airport, also faced the desert dust and worked in cramped quarters. They moved inside recently to a new 15,000-square foot modular medical clinic, and they did it without degrading services. “We opened the doors at the new clinic minutes after closing the doors at the tents. We basically duplicated services,” said Col. Christian Benjamin, 447th EMEDS commander. The new clinic more than doubles the workspace from the old 6,000-foot clinic. It also provides a cleaner, brighter facility to enhance the care for patients. “The facility is a lot more clean and sanitary,” said Maj. Jeff McLean, 447th EMEDS clinical social worker. The clinic’s mission includes providing primary care for the Airmen assigned to Sather Air Base, emergent care and surgery for battle-wounded troops and referral specialist services such as orthopedics and emergency dentistry. Although the clinic’s primary customers are Sather Air Base Airmen, the staff also provides referral and emergent and trauma care to other U.S. military, contractors and Iraqi forces assigned to the Victory Base Complex at Baghdad International Airport. “Our care is at the same standard as you would receive in the states,” said Benjamin. “We are only limited by what toys we have to use.” Instead of the dark green, dusty and cramped tents, the new clinic features linoleum floors, sealed windows and doors and room to expand services. A key benefit of the new clinic is less dust accumula- tion. “(Less dust) reduces chances of wound infections,” said Maj. Jeff Rose, 447th EMEDS general surgeon. The more sterile environment is key because the clinic is the first level of care off of the battlefield for many U.S. military troops who are fighting the war near Baghdad International Airport. “We are the only surgical-based clinic at Victory Base Baghdad, Iraq Feb. 10, 2006 Vol. 4, No. 6 See MASH, Page 5 U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason T. Bailey Water Bearer: An Iraqi construction worker, contracted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, car- ries a container full of water at the Shinafiyah Primary Health Clinic construction site in Shinafiyah. More photos, page 7 Story by Master Sgt. Will Ackerman 447th Air Expeditionary Group Iraqi Iraqi Army takes over FOB Army takes over FOB Honor Honor , page 8 , page 8 M*A*S*H no more Field hospital moves from tents to trailers
Transcript
SATHER AIR BASE — The thought of a field hospitalconjures up images of medics rolling battle-woundedtroops on gurneys into a dimly lit operating room.
The 447th Expeditionary Medical Squadron at SatherAir Base, at Baghdad International Airport, also faced thedesert dust and worked in cramped quarters.
They moved inside recently to a new 15,000-square footmodular medical clinic, and they did it without degradingservices.
“We opened the doors at the new clinic minutes afterclosing the doors at the tents. We basically duplicatedservices,” said Col. Christian Benjamin, 447th EMEDScommander.
The new clinic more than doubles the workspace fromthe old 6,000-foot clinic. It also provides a cleaner,brighter facility to enhance the care for patients.
“The facility is a lot more clean and sanitary,” said Maj.Jeff McLean, 447th EMEDS clinical social worker.
The clinic’s mission includes providing primary care forthe Airmen assigned to Sather Air Base, emergent care andsurgery for battle-wounded troops and referral specialistservices such as orthopedics and emergency dentistry.
Although the clinic’s primary customers are Sather AirBase Airmen, the staff also provides referral and emergentand trauma care to other U.S. military, contractors andIraqi forces assigned to the Victory Base Complex atBaghdad International Airport.
“Our care is at the same standard as you would receivein the states,” said Benjamin. “We are only limited bywhat toys we have to use.”
Instead of the dark green, dusty and cramped tents, thenew clinic features linoleum floors, sealed windows anddoors and room to expand services.
A key benefit of the new clinic is less dust accumula-tion.
“(Less dust) reduces chances of wound infections,” saidMaj. Jeff Rose, 447th EMEDS general surgeon.
The more sterile environment is key because the clinicis the first level of care off of the battlefield for manyU.S. military troops who are fighting the war nearBaghdad International Airport.
“We are the only surgical-based clinic at Victory Base
Baghdad, Iraq Feb. 10, 2006Vol. 4, No. 6
See MASH, Page 5
U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason T. Bailey
Water Bearer: An Iraqi construction worker, contracted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, car-ries a container full of water at the Shinafiyah Primary Health Clinic construction site in Shinafiyah. Morephotos, page 7
Story by Master Sgt. Will Ackerman447th Air Expeditionary Group
Iraqi Iraqi Army takes over FOBArmy takes over FOB HonorHonor, page 8, page 8
M*A*S*Hnnoo mmoorreeField hospital movesfrom tents to trailers
ScimitarPage 2 Feb. 10, 2006
U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Timothy J. VillarealLt. Robert Marsh and Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Piccone with Navy Explosive Ordnance Detachment11 detonate a test explosion at a range in Ad Diwaniyah.
TThhiiss iiss oonnllyy aa tteesstt
To learn more about Iraqi and Coalition successes, log on to: www.mnf-iraq.com and
click on the logo to download this week’s issue.
FOB KALSU — No terrorist can live com-fortably in this region. The Hilla IraqiSpecial Weapons and Tactics team is takingcontrol of the neighborhoods.
Training nearly every day here, the teamstands ready to hunt down terrorists on amoment’s notice.
The job is dangerous, but the team trainsfor every possible scenario, said Iraqi Lt.Husham Azeez, SWAT leader.
“If there are terrorists hiding in buildings,we’re going after them,” said Azeez. “Wetrain with all sorts of explosives andweapons and know how to take control ofbuildings.”
But no operation goes without first havinggood intelligence, said Iraqi Lt. A’ayed AbdalMuhssein, SWAT intelligence officer.
“It is very difficult to obtain intelligence,but we need this to be successful and to keepour SWAT team members safe,” Muhsseinsaid.
When this team takes on a target building,they cordon off the area, quickly encircle the
building and attack from all sides. The complex operation has many moving
pieces at different locations, so it requirescareful coordination to make it work,Muhssein said.
“Daily training ensures these operationsrun effectively,” he said.
“We learn many good things from theCoalition forces,” Azeez added. “They arealways improving our skills and pushing usforward.”
Initially, the Coalition forces took a majorrole in training the Hilla SWAT, but theIraqis are now at a point where they are able
to train themselves. In fact, Hilla SWAT con-ducts most real-life missions independently.
They have succeeded in capturing manyterrorists in the region and have rescuedmany innocent hostages.
“We have made a lot of progress,”Muhssein said.
They measure that progress by the confi-dence they gain and by the growing numberof terrorists that they detain, he said.
“The area is definitely becoming safer forour people,” Azeez said. “We are making itharder for the terrorists to operate, and that’swhy I like this job – despite the danger.”
Story and photo by Sgt. Jorge Gomez2nd Brigade Combat Team,4th Infantry Division
IIrraaqqii SSWWAATT tteeaamm ttrraaiinnss ffoorr ssuucccceessssThe Hilla Iraqi Special Weapons and Tactics team rushes through the doors of a mock building to capture terrorists after throwing a flash-bang grenade.
BAGHDAD — In the blink of an eye, I became the mom.It is a role that was intrinsic, though I have no children of
my own. I heard myself reminding them to wear ear plugs,and to drink enough water.
I laughed inside as I asked if they had packed enough socksor instructed them on what dosage of medication to take fortheir illnesses. I listened to their frustrations and fears andattempted to remain strong. My heart hurt as their hearts hurt.The most surprising of emotions was worry.
Each time a Soldier left the gate, I worried. I slept less therethan I have ever in my life. Every bump in the night jolted myheart to a state of awareness. It took an hour to recover.
It was an emotion that seemed ridiculous as those Soldiersare some the most capable, and bravest men I have everknown. They are a fantastically trained force, unbelievable intheir ability to endure, sustain and overcome.
They are the Soldiers of Company B, 1st Battalion, 502ndInfantry, and for one month I had the privilege of being one oftheir medics. I was the lone female Soldier at ForwardOperation Base Yusifiyah, a situation that made some unnec-essarily concerned. I can assure you that I was treated with theutmost respect.
Upon arrival in Yusifiyah, I was given the tour, whichincluded a walk around the facility that was once allegedly apotato factory. The entire camp spanned the area of about twofootball fields.
One half of the area is occupied by Iraqi Army Soldierswhile the other is occupied by Company B. The Soldiers of
Company B run a vigorous rotation of guarding a variety ofestablished checkpoints, patrolling and securing the gates.
The aide station that was my home is nothing short of a mir-acle. Since their arrival in October, the physician’s assistantand medics who run the aid station had seen 94 traumapatients by the time of my departure in mid-January. Thesepatients included U.S. Soldiers as well as Iraqi Army Soldiersand Iraqi civilians. Their injuries were generally becuase ofshrapnel from mortars or improvised explosive device explo-sions, with most casualties evacuated to obtain surgical treat-ment once stabilized.
Based on the number of personnel and equipment, it isamazing that this medical team has had the success it has.They are a truly gifted group of people and it was an honor towork with them.
There are memories that I never want to forget and thosethat I can’t forget, regardless of my effort to try. There areimages that become a part of a person’s eyelids; traumaticinjuries of Soldiers, 15-year-old detainees found with equip-ment to build explosives and children victims to improvisedexplosive devices set up by their neighbors and intended forSoldiers.
The men of Company B have seen more tragedy than a per-son should have to see in a lifetime. They have lost fellowSoldiers, they have risked their lives to save others and eachday they continue.
They attend a memorial, wipe their tears, and the next daythey head out on patrol or to pull guard at another checkoint.They are the epitome of the American Soldier. They are thesource of my pride in the Army.
They are heroes.
Editor............................................Sgt. Jeffrey M. Lowry
Assistant Editor.............................Spc. Rick L. Rzepka
Staff................................................Spc. David J. Claffey
The Scimitar is an authorized publication for members of theDepartment of Defense. Contents are not the official views of theU.S. Government or DoD.The editorial content is the responsibility of the Public AffairsOffice of the Multi-National Force - Iraq. Stars and Stripes news-paper is not affiliated with MNF-I and acts only as a distributingsource for the Scimitar. Questions and comments should be direct-ed to the editor at [email protected].
Scimitar welcomes columns, commentaries, articles and letters from
Medic becomes mom, cares for Soldiers ScimitScimitar Pulsear PulseWhat is your favorite Winter Olympic sport?
“Bobsled. I was on the team when Iwas 24.”
Brig. Gen. Colin BoagCivil Police Training AssistanceTeamGlasgow, Scotland
“Bobsled. It's cool and fast. They'rebraver than I am. I wouldn't dothat.”
Jason MunnMulti-National Force - Iraq, Force ProtectionAtlanta
“Figure skating. I grew up watchingit.”
Pfc. Miranda Durham,738th Medical CompanyTerre Haute, Ind.
“The ski jump. It looks like a lot offun.”
Spc. Robert DownsMulti-National Division BaghdadLiasion TeamAnderson, S.C.
“Downhill skiing. The speed and theskill for the timing and balancing.”
Lt. Col. John KanaceyMulti-National Force - Iraq, Civil Managment OfficeLong Beach, Calif.
By Sgt. Ashley Voss2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division.
Scimitar Feb. 10, 2006Page 4
At the end of the day a lotof married couples mayask each other how their
day went and what they did thatday.
In the case of the Martins, theanswer may be surprising.
“I flew a team of U.S. and IraqiSoldiers in to a remote Iraqi vil-lage to capture suspected terror-ists,” Mrs. Martin may tell herhusband.
Mr. Martin may answer, “I flewover an infantry troop and coveredthem from above in a firefight,then provided protection to a con-voy with my helicopter.”
That's because the Martins havea rather unique marriage. They areboth commanding officers in theU.S. Army, both Soldiers in thesame brigade and both helicopterpilots.
Capt. Elizabeth Martin is com-mander of Company C, 5thBattalion, 101st Combat AviationBrigade, and an Army Blackhawkpilot, while her husband, Capt.Aaron Martin, commandsCompany C, 2nd Squadron, 17thCavalry Regiment, 101st CombatAviation Brigade, and fliesKiowas.
Both are deployed with the101st Combat Aviation Brigade todifferent Forward Operating Basesin Iraq.
“I think most people aren't sur-prised that we're both in the mili-tary and married, because if youthink about it, it makes bettersense than somebody trying tomaintain a civilian profession witha military profession and going atit from opposite ends,” AaronMartin said. “I think they're moresurprised or impressed with mywife being a female captain, com-mander and pilot in such a male-dominated profession. They'reusually more taken back by that.”
“When they find out this womanwho totally doesn't look like shefits the mold when she is in civil-ian clothes is a pilot, they aretotally amazed by her and couldcare less about talking to methen!” Aaron added with a laugh.
They met as freshman inJanuary 1995 at Florida Tech, inMelbourne, Fla. Aaron had cometo Florida Tech from his home-town of Ozark, Missouri, whileElizabeth was from Greece, N.Y.,a suburb of Rochester. Aaron wasenrolled in the Reserve OfficerTraining Course, he met his futurewife when she joined the programduring both student's secondsemester. They wound up being inthe same squad.
For the Martins, it was not loveat first sight. The two becamefriends, but said that at the timehad different things going on intheir lives and were both datingother people. It wasn't until theirsenior year that they started dat-ing each other. The two said theirrelationship just started to natural-ly develop into dating as theyspent increased time together aspart of the ROTC program. Theysaid they couldn't remember whoasked the other on their first date.
The pair married while onChristmas leave following col-lege in 1998. They earned theircommissions on the same day.Aaron said out by luck of thedraw he was a higher sequencenumber than Elizabeth.
Even though the two are nowin the same brigade, their careerstook winding paths to get there.Aaron started in the artillerybranch, before switching over tothe aviation branch.
Once the two shared the samebranch, it did not mean theywere constantly together, or eventogether on a frequent basis. Infact, the two are in the samebrigade, but are not often togeth-er.
“We've been married for a lit-tle over seven years and havespent about four years of itapart,” Elizabeth said.
Story and photo by Sgt. Ryan Matson101st Combat Aviation Brigade,101st Airborne Division
Army captains share cockpit, bedroom
This photograph was taken by Alfred Elsenstaedt for LifeMagazine on Victory in Europe day, 1945. Happy ValentinesDay.
Capt. Aaron Martin offers to help his wife Capt. Elizabeth Martindown from the roof of a Blackhawk helicopter
Couple on joint deployment
BALAD AIR BASE — Deployments can place familymembers in unique situations, and require them to findcreative ways to stay connected.
This is an experience Air Force Staff Sgts. Craig andMillie Nordman have gone through twice before, but thisdeployment has been much different since they deployedto Balad Air Base together.
Both Airmen are wrapping up a four-month deploy-ment with the 332nd Expeditionary Civil EngineeringSquadron. Craig is deployed as aheavy equipment operator and Millieis deployed as an engineer journey-man.
The joint deployment came as asurprise to the couple, who have beenmarried for four and a half years.
“I never thought we would deployto the same base together,” she said.“I was told it would never happen.When I found out I was going toBalad in June, I told my supervisor my husband wasalready going there. They said it was OK and I would begoing as well.”
Sergeant Craig Nordman said, “I liked the idea; Ithought it was cool. I was interested in seeing what shedoes while she is deployed.”
Sergeant Millie Nordman left Davis-Monthan AirForce Base's 335th Civil Engineering Squadron and
arrived to Balad a few weeks before her husband, so shewas able to tell him what to expect.
“Getting here first, I was able to tell him what thesquadron and base were like,” she said. “I told him whatto bring and what not to bring.”
Being deployed together has its ups and downs accord-ing to the Nordmans.
“It is better being deployed together for many reasons,”she said. “I don't worry as much here. When he deployedthe first time, he was not able to call me often; I wouldhear things on the news and not really know what wasgoing on. This time, I know where he is during alarm
reds and if he is safe.” Craig said, “The alarm conditions
can also cause the biggest worries.”“One of the hard parts is that we
don't have anyone at home to takecare of bills and other things for us,”Millie said.
Although the couple is assigned tothe same unit, they work in differentduty sections, so they don't see oneanother at work much. But, they make
a point to spend their off-duty time together.“We have only worked on one project together here,”
Craig said. “However, we have the same day off and weare always together after work.”
Millie Nordman said, “We just hang out and talk abouthow our days went. We spend time hanging out in therecreation tent playing cards, video games and putt-puttgolf.”
Story by Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore332nd Air Expeditionary Wing
“It is better beingdeployed together formany reasons. I don'tworry as much here.”
Staff Sgt. Millie Nordman
MOSUL — At a packed theater on Logistical StagingArea Diamondback, Military Police Battalion Soldiersof the 709th honored a fallen comrade and friend.
Pfc. Kasper Dudkiewicz also known as “Duck” diedfrom injuries sustained during a traffic accident whileen route to Al Rabian Iraqi Police Headquarters.
“We are here to honor a great Soldier, a warrior, agreat person,” said Lt. Col. Thomas Blair, commander,709th MP Battalion.
Dudkiewicz was assigned to the 511th MPCompany, 91st MP Battalion., Fort Drum, N.Y., andwas stationed at Forward Operating Base Marez sup-porting the 709th during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
While serving as a gunner, Dudkiewicz providedsecurity on some of the most dangerous roads in Iraq,allowing Coalition Forces safe and secure passage.
Dudkiewicz was oneSoldier that never com-plained about anything,loved life and alwaysmade people smile nomatter what the situationwas.
“He was more like asergeant than a privatefirst class,” said Blair.“He knew everythingabout his mission andwas always there to
offer assistance to any Soldier, about anything,” hesaid.
Dudkiewicz enlisted in the Army in 2003 and hasbeen awarded the Army Achievement Medal, NationalDefense Service Medal, Korean Defense ServiceMedal, Iraq Campaign Medal, War on TerrorismService Medal, and the Army Service Medal.
He is survived by his wife, Army Sgt. Katie MarieParker of Fort Lewis, Wash., and his mother, MariaCamacho, of Maagilco, Guam.
“He knew every-thing about hismission and wasalways there tooffer assistanceto any Soldier.”
Lt. Col. Thomas Blair
Army Maj. Christopher J. Lackovic, places a folded flagwhile Navy Cmdr. Walter A. Blaney reads “The Watch.”
Scimitar Page 5Feb. 10, 2006
Service held for members of Joint Contracting Command
BAGHDAD —-With the dignifiedsolemnity, so much a part of mili-tary memorials, a fully-packedchapel in Baghdad's InternationalZone paid homage to deceasedcomrades.
Barbara Heald and Lt. Cdr. KeithTaylor were killed by an insurgent'srocket on, Jan. 29, 2005. Both weremembers of the Joint ContractingCommand-Iraq, which at that time,was housed in what is commonlycalled the “The Palace” in the IZ.
The tragic incident occurred onthe first day of Maj. Gen. John M.Urias' command of the JCC-I.Accordingly he commenced thememorial with testimony to theirexceptional character and dedica-tion to service, recounting numer-
ous stories regarding their work inIraq. He capped his remarks byreading from a letter he hadreceived from Heald's brother thatspoke of the “endearing value” ofher service and life.
U.S. Ambassador ZalmayKhalizad spoke of how the “terror-ists' attempts to stifle democracyhave failed ... but at a tragic price(as) Barbara and Keith answeredthe call and made a difference.”
He told the gathering that it wasimperative that all “honor them forwhat they were - great Americansand good friends of Iraq.”
Heald's co-worker, Naomi Olin,spoke of grieving for Taylor'sinfant son who would never knowhis father, and for her friend whowas killed barely two years beforeher retirement.
Air Force Lt. Col. Charles A.Hurry recounted Heald’s time as anAir Force captain in his branch of
service before becoming a civilservice professional and being oneof the first to volunteer to come toIraq as a contracting officer. Hehad been the person who had driv-en her to the airport in the UnitedStates when she deployed on herthird, and fateful, tour of duty in-country.
Don Buchanan, Taylor's friendand whose desk was next to his,spoke of how the two had oftenjoked and enjoyed their combatzone work and companionship.
The memorial culminated withthe slow, somber folding of theU.S. flag, and its respectful presen-tation to the candled alter.
A slow, grave salute was ren-dered by Army Maj. Christopher J.Lackovic while Navy Cmdr. WalterA. Blaney read “The Watch” — apoem metaphorically relieving aSailor from his long and arduousduties on watch.
Story and photo by Tom ClarksonGulf Region Division,U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Complex,” said Benjamin. The Armyhas general practice clinics in tents scat-tered throughout the complex.
“We’ll do emergency surgery here, butthen move (the patient) to a higher-levelfacility (in or out of theater),” he said.
An Army special forces medic, whotreats Soldiers in combat here, said hav-ing the facility nearby “raises theSoldier’s life expectancy.”
“I’m limited what I have with me (onthe battlefield),” said the medic, whocannot be named for security reasons.
Although the combat wounded keepthe orthopedic and general surgeonshere busy, many patients are seen forfitness-related sprains and strains atthe orthopedic clinic, said Maj. J.T.Tokish, 447th EMEDS orthopedic sur-geon.
Many of his patients are what hecalls “bingers”—people who decide toget in shape while deployed withoutfollowing a proper exercise routine.
“Instead of adopting a proper fitnesslifestyle, they go to the gym, and getinjured because of overusing their mus-cles,” Tokish said. “They pay the price.”
“Most of the time I reassure themand teach them how to strengthen theirmuscles,” he said.
The clinic space also provides roomfor the clinic’s other services —bioenvironmental, public health, lifeskills, general, dental, and sick call —to operate in individual offices.McLean, who provides counseling topatients, said this is a benefit from thetents because patients can relax on acot and talk about the stress they facefrom combat or deployment.
Although still an expeditionary clin-ic, the clinic’s M*A*S*H-era days aredone.
MASHfrom Page 1 709th remembers
fallen comradeStory by Sgt. Dennis Gravelle138th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Will AckermanTech. Sgt. Sherri Connerly, 447th Expeditionary Medical Clinic techni-cian, cleans a wound on Spc. Michael Harold, 755th Adjutant GeneralPostal at Sather Air Base. The Soldier was one of the first patientsseen at the clinic.
BASE CAMP ADDER — The Iraqi Army’s 8thInfantry Division moved into their $2.4 millionnew compound at Camp Echo here.
Maj. Gen. Farhoud, 8th Division commanderwelcomed Polish Maj. Gen Piotr Czervinski,Commander of the Coalition Multi-NationalDivision — Central South, Col. LarryMcCallister, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers GulfRegion South commander, and Howard Strickley,director of business management, Gulf RegionDivision, toured his new facilities recently.
Farhoud pointed out features of each buildingin the complex, which is laid out in a curvedhorseshoe pattern to maximize efficiency. Eachof the 11 buildings in the complex is designed tosupport specific staff functions for the manage-ment of the four brigades and multiple battalionsthat protect and defend the five provinces southof Baghdad: Qadisiyah, Wasit, Karbala, Babiland Najaf.
The construction was completed by an Iraqiconstruction company who hired local Iraqi con-struction and trade workers. Each building isequipped with its own water, air conditioning,modern plumbing, offices, conference rooms,computers and living quarters.
The 8th Infantry Division has trained with thePolish Army as the Iraqi Army continues steadyprogress toward defending their own country.There are now 128 Iraqi Army battalions con-ducting combat operations. Fifty-four are in thelead in defending their people and protecting theprocess of democracy.
The task of equipping an Army to functioneffectively requires modern installations such asheadquarters and garrisons. The U.S. ArmyCorps of Engineers is responsible for construct-ing military facilities and working with CoalitionForces who are equipping and training the Iraqimilitary leaders and soldiers.
The Corps of Engineers has a long history asthe engineering and construction managers ofU.S. military construction projects for the Armyand Air Force installations and deploying forcesaround the world. Now after building facilitiesfor their own military forces since 1794, theCorps is managing construction for their newallies, the Iraqi Army.
Iraqi Soldiers take an oath of allegiance to thestate of Iraq and the new Constitution. Theseforces are increasingly taking the lead in opera-tions and responsibility for the security of theirnation and as they stand up, Coalition Forces willstand down.
Scimitar Feb. 10, 2006Page 6
Story and photo by Suzanne M. Fournier
GULF REGION DIVISION, U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
At the new 8th Iraqi Infantry Division Headquarters,(left to right), Col. Larry McCallister,U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region South; Maj. Gen. Farhoud, Iraqi Army; andHoward Strickley, Gulf Region Division, enjoyed meeting their counterparts from othercountries at the facility’s official opening ceremony.
Mosul center makeselectricity reliableMOSUL — A new electrical systemcontrol center has been built here.
The $4.9 million Northwest RegionalControl Center will help improve thereliability of electricity in six gover-nates in northern Iraq.
Local Iraqis built the center, whilethe U.S. Army Corps of Engineersoversaw the project.
— Polli Barnes Keller Hospital gets upgradeBAQUBAH —After a year underconstruction, the Baqubah GeneralHospital renovation is complete.
The hospital includes a new incin-erator, water treatment system,plumbing and sewer system upgrade,architectural renovation, emergencybackup generator and properly work-ing elevators.
The facility is a 331-bed hospitalwith surgery and consultation serviceclinic that sees 400 to 500 patientsdaily.
— Claude D. McKinneyUniversity upgradeunderway in BaghdadBAGHDAD — Al Barz Company ofBaghdad has the $980,000 contract for therepair and rehabilitation of MustansiriyahUniversity in Baghdad Province, RusafaDistrict. Construction started Oct. 27, witha required completion of April 25.Eighteen Iraqis are on the crew involvedwith removing old tiles outside, brickworkon the outside walls, cleaning the façadebrick work. About 10 percent of the workis completed.
— Polli Barnes Keller
Firestation faceliftBAGHDAD — Parsons Delaware wasawarded the $1.2million contract toconstruct the Al Benook Fire Station atAdhamiyah in eastern Baghdad.
Construction started Dec. 31, 2004,with a construction completion date ofApril 30.
The project is 65 percent finished.About 15 Iraqis are working at the site.They are involved with plastering andinstalling terrazzo tiles, sanitary systempipes and water pipes, .
Al Mabani Company is the subcon-tractor. The three-story structure is9,956 square feet and features fivebays, three for ladder trucks, two forSUVs. It will include a dormitory areafor 20 firefighters, dining room for 30,commercial grade kitchenette to feed 40people, a training room for 20, lockerroom, a Control Room, and a chief’soffice. About 100,000 residents willbenefit from the fire fighting capabili-ties this facility will provide.
— Claude D. McKinneyMaternity hospital tobe reborn next yearBAGHDAD — Parsons Delaware hasthe $11.5million contract to renovatethe Karkh Maternity Hospital inKarkh District of Baghdad. Workstarted Dec. 12, 2004; with a requiredcompletion of March 30.
Renovations include the repair ofplumbing, increasing the number oftoilets and showers, installing anexhaust system to remove unhealthyair, and the installation of a generatorsystem. About 50 Iraqis are on thecrew. Construction is 59 percent com-plete. — Suzanne Fournier
8th Iraqi Army HQ opens
Iraqi highway patrolimproves effectivenessBASE CAMP ADDER — The IraqiHighway Patrol was a little known enti-ty under the former regime. It was asmall paramilitary-trained police forceof approximately 600 officers, drivingjunk vehicles and operating out ofdilapidated buildings.
Since the U.S. Army Corps ofEngineers began reconstruction in Iraqtwo years ago, the Iraqi Highway Patrolhas made major advancements.
Ten times more men and women nowserve as Highway Patrol officers. Theyare trained by the U.S. Army SpecialForces and military police on modernapprehension, detection, security andlaw enforcement to defend and securethe roads of Iraq.
The junk vehicles are gone, replacedby a fleet of new 4-door blue and whiteChevrolet pickups, outfitted with blueand red lights, radio systems and spot-
lights. Also disappearing are the dilapidated
buildings. Safe, secure and professionalhighway patrol facilities are under con-struction or already occupied.
Thirty-three Iraqi Highway Patrolstations and six border-entry barracksare needed to provide sufficient lawenforcement along Iraq's six majorhighways. The stations are being builtto ensure that continuous sections ofroad remain secure until the entire net-work is completed. The goal is to havean Iraqi Highway Patrol station every31 to 37 miles, starting in the southwhere three of six stations on IraqiHighway One are compete and theother three will be finished next month.
The Iraqi Highway Police have twonew $2 million buildings in Fawwa inQadisiyah Province and Al-Shaiba inBasrah Province.
The two-story buildings will house160 officers.
Story by Suzanne M. Fournier
NEWS IN BRIEF
ScimitarFeb. 10, 2006 Page 7
GULF REGION DIVISION, U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Rebuilding IraqRebuilding Iraq
Iraqi construction workers, contracted by the U.S. Army Corps ofEngineers, spread mortar on a wall at the Shinafiyah PrimaryHealth Clinic construction site in Diwaniyah, Jan. 28.
Workers, contracted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, mix mortar at the Shinafiyah PrimaryHealth Clinic.
An Iraqi construction worker, contracted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, pours water on a brick wall at theShinafiyah Primary Health Clinic construction site in Diwaniyah, Jan. 28.
Iraqi construction workers, contractedby the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,mix mortar at the Shinafiyah PrimaryHealth Clinic construction site inDiwaniyah, Jan. 28.
U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason T. Bailey
U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason T. Bailey
U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason T. BaileyU.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason T. Bailey
BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Army’s Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division acontrol of Forward Operating Basefrom the 4th Infantry Division’s 4tBrigade Combat Team during a traauthority ceremony last week.
The ceremony marked the increarole Iraqi Security Forces are undein Baghdad, and throughout their cin enforcing the sovereign governmrule of law.
“This brigade is responsible for ing Iraq’s new government here inInternational Zone,” said Col. MohWasif, commander of the 5th BrigIraqi Army Division. “We will worand night to achieve our mission fnew government of Iraq.”
FOB Honor is in the palace distrcentral Baghdad and housed the foBa’athist regime prior to the war. strikes destroyed five of the 20 buof the former regime headquarters15 buildings still stand as Iraqi fortransition with the 4th BCT “Cobrmake FOB Honor their new home.
Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 2ndArmored Calvary Regiment, were to move into FOB Honor in Octobfollowed by the 3rd Inf. Division’sSquadron, 8th Calvary in January
The 4th BCT, 4th Inf. Div., arrivBaghdad in December.
“The turnover of FOB Honor destrates the increased capability of Mohammed’s brigade to assume grresponsibility and security of Baghsaid Col. Michael Beech, commanBCT, 4th Inf. Div.
“The 5th Brigade has earned a retion of being a tough well-trained well-led unit,” he said.
“Today is another great step forwthe future of Iraq,” said Maj. Gen.Hatim Hazya Al-Duleimi, commangeneral, 6th Iraqi Army Div.
“Today we lay a new brick in thing of our Army,” he said. “We aremitted to the citizens of this countthis army and will defend our homthe threats of the terrorists as we bfreedom back to this country.”
The FOB Honor transition markcontinued improvement in the IraqSecurity Forces’ capability over thyear, as it continues to assume motlespace throughout the country, saBeech
“With the seating of the new govment and the increased capability Security Forces, I’m very optimistBeech. “I think 2006 is going to byear for Iraq.”
Story by Pfc. Jason Dangel4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division
Scimitar Feb. 10, 2006Page 8
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class David D. IsaksonA convoy stands by as extra security following the transfer of authority ceremony.
U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Jason DangelSoldiers from the Iraqi Army's 5th Brigade, 6th Division celebrate after the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division relin-quish control of FOB Honor.
Handover of HonorIraqi Brigade assumes responsibility of In
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ScimitarFeb. 10, 2006 Page 9
U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Jason DangelSoldiers from the Iraqi Army's 5th Brigade, 6th Division stand in formation at theForward Operating Base transfer of authority ceremony.
U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Jason DangelCol. Michael F. Beech, and Col. Mohammed Wasif, raise the Iraqi Army 5thBrigade, 6th Division flag at FOB Honor.
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class David D. IsaksonCol. Michael Beach, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division com-mander, left, and Col. Mohammad Wasif , Iraqi Army's 5th Brigade, 6th Divisioncommander. raise the Iraqi Army’s 5th Brigade, 6th Divison flag.
U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Jason DangelCol. Michael F. Beech, presents a key to Forward Operating Base Honor toCol. Mohammed Wasif.
rnternational Zone forward operating base
CAMP TAQADDUM — More than 25Marines from different sections within 2ndMarine Logistics Group (Forward) receivedtheir Corporals Course certificates here Jan.25.
At garrison bases, Corporals Course is heldover a two-week period and comprised of uni-form inspections, sword manual, drill, physi-cal training and numerous hours of academicinstruction.
It is not much different here in Iraq, accord-ing to Gunnery Sgt. Thomas E. Clough, 8thEngineer Communications Detachment com-mander and chief instructor for the CorporalsCourse.
“We do the same things here,” Clough said.“Except here we don’t have the same uniforminspections because all we have are our [cam-ouflage utilities].”
Other minor differences include drill, PTand the length of the course, according toClough.
“It is hard to get Marines away from theirshops,” Clough admitted. “We shortened thecourse from 14 to eight days because we allhave demanding jobs that directly support ourmission here.”
Although the schedule was shortened, thisdid not mean all the materials pertinent to thecourse were not covered, according to Cpl.Roy G. White, data network specialist withMarine Wing Communication Squadron-38,2nd MLG (Fwd), and Corporals Course grad-uate.
“We were here everyday from [7 a.m. – 8p.m.]. Although the schedule was intense, Ilearned a lot,” White said. “There is a lot thatgoes into this course than what I originallythought.”
In the rear, uniform inspections are part ofthe schedule, where Marines are judged bytheir attention to detail. Here, there are fewchanges to the uniform inspections, accordingto Sgt. Matthew A. Phelps, who was one ofthree squad instructors working with the jun-ior Marines during the course.
“We don’t have the [service A uniforms]here,” Phelps said. “All we have are our cam-mies, which we have been wearing everydaysince we have been here. And because we wearthem all day we don’t try to focus as muchattention on uniforms compared to other thingssuch as drill or periods of instruction.”
Some Marines, like Cpl. Richard S. Jackel,believe the class here will benefit them herein Iraq and when they return to the states.
“Because we are in Iraq, we not onlylearned how to become leaders in the Corpsbut also learned time and stress manage-ment,” said Jackel, who is an engineer withMWCS-38, 2nd MLG (Fwd). “CorporalsCourse is vital to becoming a great leader.Setting the right example through consistencyis the best thing some of us have learnedhere.”
Scimitar Feb. 10, 2006Page 10
Cpl. Claudia L. Ramirez awaits orders from the Corporals Course chiefinstructor Gunnery Sgt. Thomas E. Clough at Camp Taqaddum Jan. 24.
TThhee mmaakkiinngg ooff MMaarriinnee NNCCOOssTThhee mmaakkiinngg ooff MMaarriinnee NNCCOOssStory and photos by Lance Cpl. Joel Abshier2nd Marine Logistics Group
2nd Marine Logistics Group graduates 2nd Marine Logistics Group graduates 2525
Cpl. Jonathan T. Bowman sheaths his sword after drilling with other Marinesduring a Corporals Course here Jan. 24. More than 25 Marines from differentsections within 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) received theirCorporals Course certificates here Jan. 25.
Marines stand in formation during aCorporals Course here Jan. 24.
CAMP LIBERTY — Staff Sgt. Archie,67th Engineering Detachment, 16thEngineer Brigade, greets everyone withwarmth and friendliness.
His tail wags and his tongue lollsfrom his mouth as he places both hugepaws on his visitor’s chest and givesthem a dead-on look in the eyes.
Staff Sgt. Figo greets her visitors witha serious stare, morealoof than her counter-part, but still friendly.She’ll gladly accept a paton the head for a momentor two before turning tomore important business.
Three years ago, the67th EngineeringDetachment adopted theBritish Army program ofusing dogs to find explo-sives and contraband.Most of the dogs arefound in pounds ordonated to the program. They undergo atraining period of about three monthsbefore being placed with a handler.
“I went to train under Roger Tredwell,who’s been doing this kind of thing for30 years,” said Sgt. Daniel Broda, of67th Engineering Detachment, handlerfor Staff Sgt. Figo. “I didn’t see my dogfor quite a while. He can judge in oneweek which dog to team up with eachhandler. He makes the choice based onpersonality and temperament of both thedog and the handler. Most of the time itworks out. “
“Figo is a Lab and Springer Spanielmix, so she’s a bit high strung. She’svery independent,” said Broda. “It tookquite a while before we were able tobond. I didn’t think it was going to workout because she wouldn’t listen. Thenone day it just clicked. Now we’reinseparable. She goes with me every-where.”
The pair has been together for almosttwo years now, sharing the same sleep-ing space and daily routine. “It feelsweird when she’s not with me, like nothaving my weapon with me. Our dogsare actually more important than ourweapons because we can’t do our mis-sion without them,” said Broda.
Each dog is awarded rank in the Armysystem and receives special treatment bythe system and their handler.
“The dogs are always one step higherin rank than their handler,” said Broda.“If a handler abuses the animal, they are
subject to UCMJ action.If I get promoted, shegets promoted as well.”
The dogs, usuallyLabrador retrievers or aLabrador mix, are givenrigorous training andtheir relationship withtheir handlers is veryimportant. When work-ing, they wear a specialharness. They know thatwhen wearing it, it’stime to work. “Theywon’t work without
their harnesses,” said Broda.And work they do. Staff Sgt. Figo has
been at the Victory complex almost twoyears. During that time, she has foundmany caches of weapons and stockpilesof munitions. She was awarded aBronze Star and a Combat Action badgeduring her deployment to Iraq.
“Engineer specialized search dogteams are definitely a force multiplierfor all combat and combat support oper-ations and have proven their ability andworth during multiple military opera-tions. The dog teams are highly-trainedprofessionals and perform every missionin a superior manner. From a commandperspective, they are invaluable,” saidBrig. Gen. Robin Timmons, commander,16th Engineer Brigade.
For now, the dogs and the handlersshare the routine, and the dangerousmissions, as special teams — keepingthe forces on the Victory complex safe.
BALAD — Perhaps some of the most importantissues for most Soldiers deployed for long peri-ods of time is their absence at normal holidaydinners and spending birthdays with family.
To be able to spend quality time with a lovedone is something special.
That was the case when Lt. Col. RichardO’Connor, commander, support squadron, 3rdArmored Cavalry Regiment visited his only son.
“I wanted to surprise my son on his birthday,and give him something to remember while he isdeployed in Iraq,” said Lt. Col. O’Connor.
Lt. Col. O’Connor boarded a UH-60Blackhawk helicopter at FOB Sykes and headedto greet his son, Pfc. Ryan O’Connor, 4thInfantry Division, 168th Combined ArmsBattalion at FOB Gabe.
When the Blackhawk landed, the crew chiefopened the side door and Lt. Col. O’Connortook off his seat belt and stepped out. About 30feet away his son stood tall with a few Soldierfriends. Pfc. O’Connor came to attention andsaluted his dad for the very first time. His dadsnapped to attention and saluted his son back.
“I have always wanted to salute my dad, and itwas awesome,” said Pfc. O’Connor.
They boarded the Blackhawk and flew to FOBAnaconda for a birthday lunch and were able tospend four hours together.
Pfc. O’Connor grew up as an Army depend-ent, and followed the same career path his fatherhas for 29 years.
“I have a lot of pride in my dad and what hedoes. It was my duty to join,” said Pfc.O’Connor. “It’s a rewarding job and I like it alot.”
Because they are deployed to separate FOBs,they have not seen each other since Septemberwhen Lt. Col. O’Connor was home from Iraq onleave.
“I am just honored that I had the opportunityto come and see him before I left to go home,”said Lt. Col. O’Connor. “It was honorable, andemotional to see him here, it’s just awesome,”he said.
As his dad prepares to leave Iraq and headhome, Pfc. O’Connor is just beginning his tour,which began Nov. 30. Pfc. O’Connor serves as ascout for his unit and his father is very proud ofhis son for joining the Army.
“I can’t tell you how proud I am of what he’sdone, to follow in his dad’s footsteps, how muchprouder can you be?” said Lt. Col. O’Connor.
“Both of us are serving our nation during atime of war. I am proud that he wears the uni-form,” said Lt. Col. O’Connor.
After their celebration they flew back to FOBGabe. They gave each other a hug and Ryansaluted his dad once more.
Lt. Col. O’Connor boarded the Blackhawk andwaved to his son as the crew chief shut the door.
Story and Photo by Sgt. Dennis Gravelle138th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
ScimitarFeb. 10, 2006 Page 11
Lt. Col. Richard O’Connor talks with his son Pfc. Ryan O’Connor at FOB Gabe. Lt. Col.O’Connor met his son for a birthday surprise and was able to spend a few hours with himfor a lunch celebration.
CCeelleebbrraattiioonn!!Father meets son for his birthday
“Our dogs areactually moreimportant than ourweapons becausewe can't do ourmission withoutthem,”
Sgt. Daniel Broda
Story and photo by Sgt. Ann Drier363rd Mobile Public AffairsDetachment
Man’s best friendsniffs out trouble
Staff Sgt. Figo watches as Staff Sgt. Archie practices his paces.
Scimitar Feb. 10, 2006Page 12
An eminent natu-ralist in one ofhis text booksdescribes a
marine plant which growsfrom a depth of 150 to 250feet and floats on thebreakers of the western ocean. Thestem of this plant according to thenaturalist is less than an inch thickand yet it thrives and grows andholds its own against the fiercepressures of the breakers.
The ocean never ceases itsrelentless assault against this mar-velously resilient plant. Thebreakers hammer away and yetthe little plant endures.
What is the secret of this seem-ingly slender, frail plant? What isthe key to its remarkableendurance and resistance of thepressures that are brought to bearupon it? The naturalist goes on tosay the slender plant endures thefury of nature because its rootsare firmly anchored in ocean bot-tom rocks. Its security and suc-cess is in its ability to grasp visi-ble and immovable rocks at thebottom of the sea.
So it is in our own lives when
the pressures oflife seem to beardown on us. Allof nature andScripture resoundin concert thatGod is our con-stant source ofstrength whenlife’s difficultiescome our way.
The Biblerecords the
remarkable saga of the prophetDaniel who faced incredible pres-sures to compromise his faith andintegrity. Early in his career whileserving in Nebuchadnezzar’sBabylonian court, Daniel makes aremarkable stand for religiousprinciple. Daniel 1:3 records,“But Daniel resolved not to defilehimself with the royal food andwine and asked the chief officialfor permission not to defile him-self this way. Now God hadcaused the official to show favorand sympathy to Daniel, but theofficial told Daniel, I am afraid ofmy lord the king, who hasassigned you food and drink.”
What was is the rest of thestory to Daniel’s dilemma andethical stand? Daniel along withhis three friends didn’t eat theking’s food or drink the king’swine. Consequently, in choosingthe “hard right,” God blesses
Daniel and his friends (Daniel1:17), “To these four young menGod gave knowledge and under-standing of all kinds of literatureand learning. And Daniel couldunderstand visions and dreams ofall kinds.”
By extension and application,we who serve here in Iraq facenumerous pressures everyday. Forsome, being away from home isdifficult. Family separation cou-pled with long working hours, andmental and physical fatigue canoften deplete our spiritual vigor.Yet, we must take the time to stayphysically fit. Spiritual fitnessmay include attending a religiousservice, fellowship with those oflike faith, prayer, meditation, andBible study. By doing so, ourspiritual roots are tapping into awell of strength and support thatwill allow us to endure.
Finally, each of us must con-duct ourselves above reproach.Don’t let your personal and reli-gious standards of conduct slip orebb away. Our mission hererequires the very best people, youand I, to do the “hard right” everyday. And yes, the “hard right”includes making a consciouseffort to do our routine dailyduties as best as we can.
You will bless others and Godwill bless you in the process ... nomatter what the pressures!
CHAPLAIN’S TALK
Chaplain (Lt. Col.)Robert MeyerJoint Area SupportGroup - InternationalZone
Chaplain Meyer
Making the ‘Hard Right’ choicesMental health isnot mental illness
What is good mentalhealth? Many peopleconfuse the termmental health with
“mental illness.” People with good emotional
health are in control of theirthoughts, feelings and behaviors.They feel good about themselvesand have good relationships. Theycan keep problems in perspective,not letting manageable problemsdevelop into larger uncontrollableevents. Stress is normal, but excessstress can be damaging and evendeadly.
It’s important to remember thatpeople with good emotional healthsometimes have emotional prob-lems or mental illness. Mental ill-ness often has a physical cause suchas a chemical imbalance in thebrain. Stress and problems withfamily, work or school can some-times trigger mental illness or makeit worse. However, people withgood emotional health have learnedways to cope with stress and prob-lems.
Many emotionally healthy peoplehave good people around them,allowing them to talk out their prob-lems – often, with a family member,loved one, friend, co-worker, orsupervisor. Good leaders understandthe importance of talking and takingcare of their people when they haveproblems. Asking for help is a sign ofgood judgment. It should never beseen as a weakness – good decisionmaking requires us to know when toask for help.
Unit chaplains can provide manypeople with a good source of sup-port. They know when they need toseek help from their health careprovider or a counselor.
A common emotional symptomof frustration and stress is anger.People are sometimes not aware ofwhat causes their anger, how muchanger they are holding inside orhow to express anger. Certainevents or actions by other peoplecan make you angry. Also, manylittle things can build up to makeyou feel life is unfair.
If you find yourself becomingincreasingly irritable or takingunhealthy risks, like drinking toomuch or abusing drugs, you mayhave a problem dealing with anger.It’s very important to talk with yourdoctor, health care professional,chaplain, medical corpsman or acounselor about getting help.
By Eric D. CiprianoMental Health Service
HEALTH & FITNESS
— Learn to convey your feel-ings in appropriate ways. It’simportant to let people close toyou know when something isbothering you. Keeping feelingsof sadness or anger inside takesextra energy and can cause prob-lems in your relationships and atwork or school. — Think before you act.Emotions can be powerful. Butbefore you are carried away byyour emotions and say or dosomething you might regret, con-sider the possible positive andnegative consequences. — Strive for balance in yourlife. Don’t focus all your energyon problems at work, at schoolor at home. Focus on positivethings in your life. Make timefor things you enjoy. — Take care of your physicalhealth. Your physical health canaffect your emotional health.Take care of your body by exer-cising regularly for minimum of30 minutes three days a week,drinking plenty of waterthroughout the day, eatinghealthy meals and getting 8 to 9hours sleep. Don’t abuse drugsor alcohol. Physical health is avital part of mental health.Remember, your head is con-nected to your body.— Dont work to exhaustion.While there may be occasions towork long hours in our currentenvironment or be involved incontinuous operations – workinguntil exhaustion is the precursorto illnesses, poor morale, andmental health problems. — Go see a counselor. Mostpeople benefit from short-termand brief problem-solving orient-ed counseling. When seen as anopportunity, it is beneficial to aperson, his family, friends, andco-workers. Counseling shouldnot be seen as a “career ender” -it typically does not causechanges in security clearances,especially when it is self-referred, and for family, martial,and/or grief counseling. — Get to know your mentalhealth care resources beforeyou need them. The Iraq theaterhas many mental healthproviders and resources.
EmotionalRescue
Food center welcomed: Capt. Ben Simms, Company D, 2nd Battalion, 8th InfantryRegiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.; Saleh Husen Alwan, Diyarahimam; and Capt. Majed Hady Al-Shemevy, a company commander in the 8th Iraqi ArmyDivision, officially open a new food distribution center in Diyarah. “We hope this is thebeginning of many openings and celebrations for us,” said Alwan.
Fightin’ Words solution from Feb. 3, 2006C A N A D I A N
O R R I B E
R C A V I E W
N O P E G Y
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R U S S I A R
S S P U C K
A L T O J
ACROSS1. The 11th sign of the zodiac6. Abbreviation for mountain8. Groups of atoms with a net electriccharge12. Succulent, voluptuous14. To flatter sincerely16. “If it’s in the game.” video games17. Hi-___18. A type of duck22. The 1st sign of the zodiac
DOWN1. Bewildering or perplexing2. Keeping it on the down low, ___,abbreviation3. To become a unit or team4. Baby blue beret troops 5. Hit this button to e-mail some one9. Canada’s national capital10. Actress ____ Long11. Army or Marine E-5, abbreviation 13. Morning time, abbreviation 15.1980s supermodel ____ Macpherson19. Jack Nicholson movie, ___ Good___ It Gets.20. Abbreviation for Army regulation.21. Atomic number three, abbrevia-tion.
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SAMARRA — The Iraqi Army in Samarra has beenworking closely with 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101stAirborne Division Soldiers, also known as Rakkasans, intraining designed to bolster the proficiency of the new,reconstituted army.
The regimen consists of weapons training, map reading,general orders and basic first aid that is taught to the offi-cers and noncommissioned officers in the military. Thehigher ranking officials will then teach the classes to otherSoldiers.
“It empowers their leaders and gives them the experi-ence and knowledge to control their Soldiers,” said Capt.Christopher Swint, the assistant Military TransitionTraining team chief, 3rd Special Troops Battalion, 3rdBrigade Combat Team.
After the classroom and hands-on training, the IraqiArmy Soldiers’ level of understanding is tested withpatrols in the streets of Iraq. The Soldiers search homesand arrest detainees in a quest to eliminate anti-Iraqiforces.
“The word independent is important -it means they do this without Coalitionforce help,” Swint said.
Every unit is evaluated once a month.Categories tested include training level,sustainability, logistics ability, communi-cation, leadership and operations. Theevaluation for each unit can vary slightlysince the testing is devised in conjunc-tion with the Iraqi Army’s commander.
“We don’t force a particular way ofdoing things because in the end it’s notour Army,” said Swint. “So we evaluatethe end-state, not the procedures.”
Ultimately, the Iraqi government hasto accept the unit as ready to take over operations basedon the evaluations.
Regardless of how well the unit does on evaluations, IASoldiers struggle to prove themselves to their communities.IA Soldier’s have to wear civilian clothes while at homebecause they often become targets of anti-Iraqi forces.
“Soldiers in America are heroes, but that pride is notestablished here yet,” said Swint. “But it will be.”
MITT team Soldiers are working to help the Iraqi Armygain that history and respect as Iraq’s heroes. The teamhere in Samarra feels that the training is a step in thatdirection for the Iraqi Army.
“They perform guard duty well and their base is safe.They operate a machine gun properly, and the enemylearns that they are lethal,” said Swint. “These basic skillshold a small amount of worth alone, but combined theycreate a force to be reckoned with.”
Story and photos Pfc. Cassandra Groce133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
ScimitarPage 14 Feb. 10, 2006
Iraqi Army Sgt. Maj. Hatem Ashmn Kahlef, right, instructs twoinfantry Soldiers in battle drill movements with a machine gun.
Iraqi Army Soldiers practice sector fire.
An Iraqi Army Soldier aims his rifle after successful battle movements.
Soldiers at their best
Rakkasans help developIraqi Soldier combat skills
ScimitarFeb. 10, 2006 Page 15
Army engineers fill void left by blastsSoldiers get down and dirtySoldiers get down and dirty
BAGHDAD — Running parallel to theTigris River in south Baghdad, RouteRed Wings is a hotbed of insurgent activ-ity and the scars can be seen all alongthe 5 mile road.
One of the most dangerous inBaghdad, it is a mud-slicked path dottedby deep craters from past improvisedexplosive devices, the largest making theroad impassable.
Soldiers from the Equipment SupportPlatoon, 62nd Engineer Battalion(Heavy), were charged with refilling theholes left by several deadly IEDs on Jan.25.
Their efforts focused on the largesthole, left by a shaped charge that torethrough an Abrams tank the night before.Straddling an irrigation canal andflanked by farms and fields, the craterwas more than six feet deep and 20 feetacross.
“The first step is the clear out thedebris,” said 1st Lt. David Korman, theEQ platoon leader. “Once we clear thearea, we refill the hole.”
Using a Bobcat, the engineers pushed
the mud and dirt back into the hole, thenpoured gravel in to even out the surfaceand prepare it for concrete.
“It should only take about two hours,”said Korman, “depending on the hole.”For this hole, it took the team more thaneight hours, using three cement trucks tocap the top of the crater.
It was a longer day for 2nd Battalion,506th Infantry Regiment, 101st AirborneDivision. The unit cleared the road 24hours prior to the engineers’ arrival,walking 5 miles from the nearest check-point to secure the road.
“It took six hours to clear,” said Capt.Tim Gittins, the battalion commander.The Soldiers checked for secondarydevices or wires, then provided securitythrough the night to deter insurgentsfrom placing more explosives.
“It is important to repair these holes,”said Gittins. “After an IED goes off, itis really easy to dig another one in thesame spot. Now, they would have tobreak up the concrete. We would knowif they did that.”
Once the concrete is poured, theSoldiers keep the area secured for up to18 hours, to make sure no one tamperswith the soft material.”We stay until theconcrete hardens,” said Gittins.
Story and photos by Spc. Orlando ClaffeyScimitar staff writer
Engineers from the Equipment Support Platoon, 62nd Engineer Battalion (Heavy)dump gravel over the muddy surface filling a crater left behind by an IED blast.
Spc. Matthew Saffell rakes concrete with a shove.A track from an Abrams tank lies on the side of the road. A shaped charge IEDblew debris more than 30 yards away.
ScimitarPage 16 Feb. 10, 2006
Enter the DragonEnter the DragonLSA ANACONDA — Hiiyah!!
For one officer, deployment is a perfectchance to refine his martial arts skills, and toteach others about the martial arts.
Capt. A.C. Wiley, battle captain, 159thCombat Aviation Brigade, has a passion forthe martial arts - he has a 3rd degree blackbelt in Goju Ryu Karate, a 3rd degree blackbelt in Jujika Jujutsu and a 1st degree blackbelt in Tae Kwon Do - and a passion forpassing on his knowledge of the martial arts.He teaches Karate four times a week at theBalad West MWR center's aerobics room.
“I'll continue teaching until I can nolonger teach,” Wiley said. “But I'll continuestudying and learning until I can no longerlearn, which means I'll probably be dead.”
Wiley said his interest in the martial artsbegan at age six, when he saw his firstChuck Norris movie. “It just looked cool,”he said.
His interest didn't waiver until he wasfinally able to talk his parents into lettinghim take classes as a young teen. Now, heis an expert in two different schools of mar-tial arts and studies several others to helpdevelop specific skills.
Wiley said he studies Tae Kwon Do toimprove kicks, Judo for throws and Kenpofor hand speed. He said he's also becomemore interested in Modern ArmyCombatives for ground skills and plans tostudy Brazilian Jiujitsu when he returnsfrom deployment for ground skills.
“The first thing I do when I move to anew place is get out the phone book andopen up the martial arts section,” he said. Hethen visits as many schools as he can, just toget a feel for atmosphere of each so he caneither become involved in the school, or atleast be able to recommend one to prospec-tive students.
However,studying the mar-tial arts is just oneof Wiley's inter-ests. Teaching isalso a passion ofhis.
“I thought aboutteaching after thefirst year [ofstudying martialarts],” he said. “Iknew it wouldtake awhile, butknew I enjoyed itand wanted topass it along.
“Teaching is thebest way to learnsomething,”Wiley said.“You've gottalearn it to know itand relearn it toteach it.”
Wiley said hehad his first regu-lar teaching jobwhile in flightschool inAlabama, but hastaught on and offsince he firstbegan learningKarate.
Any time he has taught Karate, he hasdone it as a volunteer, but a long-term goalis to eventually have his own full-timeschool, he said.
“It's quite a ways down the road, but it's agoal,” he said.
When he found out the 159th was deploy-ing, Wiley said he started thinking of thepossibility of offering Karate classes.
“I wanted something to do,” he said. “Iwanted to share the art and personally felt I
needed the experi-ence of learning torun a school.
“I'm hoping thatby teaching, I canpass along a loveof martial arts to agroup of peoplewho may have notgotten into it other-wise. I'm lookingto refine my teach-ing abilities andhope to continue todevelop myself as ateacher and a per-son.”
He said the number of students in theclass varies due to operational tempo, but heaverages about seven students per class.
Some students have martial arts experi-ence, but most are beginners. Wiley said he'sflexible and will spend more or less time onspecific techniques depending on the needsof the students.
“It's an excellent class,” said class regularPfc. Isaac Obregon, Company A, 563rdAviation Support Battalion, 159th Combat
Aviation Brigade. “I love it.”“For this hour and a half, I'm not in Iraq
anymore. I'm in his world,” Obregon said. “Icompletely forget about everything that'sgoing on around out there. When I'm here, Ijust look forward to class. I live from classto class. It's my time to better myself - phys-ically, mentally and spiritually.”
Obregon, who has been studying variousforms of martial arts since he was threeyears old, said he had been frequently work-ing out in the gym before finding out aboutWiley's class.
He said he discovered the class by pokinghis head in the door one day after workingout.
“Coming to the gym every day wasn't thesame as coming here,” Obregon said. Theworkout in the class helps keeps in himshape and flexible for other sports, such asboxing and Muay Thai kickboxing, headded.
Obregon said Wiley one of the best teach-ers he's had.
“He's a real good role model,” Obregonsaid. “I think he has a lot to do with why Icome back. It's not just the class, but theteacher.”
Capt. A.C. Wiley, battle captain for 159thCombat Aviation Brigade, teaches Karateat Balad's West MWR facility. Wiley hasblack belts in three different martial arts.
Story and photos by Sgt. Susan Redwine159th Combat Aviation Brigade
Chuck Norris influences Army captain to kick butt
“I’ll continue studying andlearning until I can no longerlearn, which means I’ll probablybe dead.”
Capt. A.C. Wiley
2006 Torino Winter Olympics on AFNSaturday February 11, 20060400 Atlantic 2006 Torino Olympic Games:Opening Ceremony1500 Sports Men’s Biathlon1500 Xtra Women’s Hockey2000 Sports Women’s Hockey: USA vs.Switzerland2000 Xtra Men’s Biathlon2230 Xtra Women’s Hockey2300 Atlantic Luge, Nordic Combined, FigureSkatingSunday February 12, 20060030 Xtra Women’s Hockey0400 Atlantic Luge, Nordic Combined, FigureSkating0500 Xtra Luge, Nordic Combined, AlpineSkiing, Figure Skating
0800 Xtra Men’s Biathlon1100 Xtra Figure Skating, Freestyle Skiing, SpeedSkating, Luge, Alpine Skiing1500 Xtra Ski Jumping, Figure Skating1600 Xtra Women’s Hockey: USA vs. Switzerland1830 Xtra Women’s Hockey: Canada vs. Russia2100 Sports Women’s Hockey: USA vs. Germany2200 Xtra Figure Skating, Freestyle Skiing, SpeedSkating, Luge, Alpine Skiing2300 Atlantic: Speed Skating, Cross-country,LugeMonday February 13, 20060200 Atlantic Women’s Hockey USA vs.Germany0300 Atlantic Alpine Skiing, Speed Skating, SkiJumping, Snowboarding, Luge0500 Xtra Speed Skating, Cross-country, Luge
Skating1500 Xtra Women’s Hockey2230 Sports Women’s Hockey: USA vs. FinlandWednesday February 15, 20050100 Xtra Women’s Curling0400 Atlantic Figure Skating, Alpine Skiing,Speed Skating, Luge1600 Sports Curling2300 Sports Men’s Hockey: USA vs. LatviaThursday February 16, 20060000 Atlantic Speed Skating, Short Track SpeedSkating0400 Atlantic 2006 Olympic Games: FreestyleSkiing, Luge, Nordic Combined
For more details checkhttp://myafn.dodmedia.osd.mil/
Capt. A.C. Wiley, spends time during his Karate class atBalad's West MWR facility instructing students one-on-one to better address individual skill levels.
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