Good News Friday - Good News From Iraq

Iraq police and CF find cache, more than 200 artillery rounds
Multi-National Division – North PAO

SAMARRA, Iraq – Iraqi policemen from Samarra working with Paratroopers of 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, discovered a cache during a patrol east of Samarra.

The patrol was initiated after the Paratroopers received a tip from a local Iraqi about foul play in the area where the cache was found.

More than 200 rockets, mortars and other various artillery rounds were found inside the cache in addition to six grenade launchers, 25 pounds of rocket propellant and several large-caliber machineguns and other small arms.

Transition of Authority ceremony marks progress of Iraqi battalion
Multi-National Force – West PAO

AR RAMADI, Iraq – The 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 7th Iraqi Army Division officially took charge of independent operations in west Ramadi during a ceremony at Camp Ali Jan. 22.

This is the third battalion in the 1st Brigade, 7th Iraqi Army Division to assume authority over another area in the city during the past five months, signifying the continued progress of the brigade.

The 2nd Battalion commanding officer, Col. Khalid, said after the ceremony the transfer of authority was the result of the cooperative effort with the Coalition Forces’ Military Transition Team.

“They are serving our country in a great way and I am very grateful to them,” he said.

The Coalition Forces Military Transition Team under 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, acted as advisors to the Iraqi battalion staff in training and operations.

Marine Lt. Col. William Jurney, battalion commander for 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, spoke during the ceremony and praised Col. Khalid’s leadership as well as the ability of the Iraqi soldiers.

“We are proud of the progress this unit has made,” Jurney said after the ceremony. “I believe they are capable of conducting security operations against those Anti-Iraqi Forces who want to do further harm to the people of their country.”

Marine Lt. Col. James Bailey, the Military Transition Team Leader for 1st Brigade, 7th Division, said the Iraqi battalion is very capable and will continue to work with Coalition Forces and Iraqi Police.

“They’ve been performing magnificently … We’re already seeing positive things happen in the battle space,” he said. "It means progress for the city of Ramadi and Iraqi security forces.”

Joint Security Operation Launched in Adhamiyah
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers and elements from the Iraqi Army launched “Operation Wolf” in eastern Baghdad Jan. 22.

Soldiers with the 2ndBrigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, together with troops from 2nd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division began the security operation in the Adhamiyah section of the city.

The mission is aimed at bringing more security to the area by denying safe haven to insurgents. It is further intended to reduce sectarian violence and is part of an on-going U.S.-Iraqi effort to transition security in the Iraqi capital to Iraqi security forces.

16 TERRORISTS KILLED, 10 DETAINED IN RAIDS

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed 16 terrorists and detained 10 suspected terrorists while conducting operations Tuesday morning in the Baghdad and Haditha areas.

Intelligence reports indicated foreign terrorist facilitators were operating in an area northwest of Haditha. As Coalition Forces approached the area, several armed men exited buildings. Coalition Forces killed two armed terrorist and detained six other suspected terrorists as they attempted to flee the area.

Three terrorists made their way to a boat along the bank of the Al Qadisiyah Lake. They sped away to the opposite end of a small peninsula where they met up with four more men and were seen entering a tent. As Coalition Forces approached the area, the men exited the tents with weapons and ammunition vests.

Coalition Forces engaged the enemy force with rotary wing aircraft killing seven terrorists. Several weapons including grenades, machine guns and pistols were found in the tents.

In other operations in Baghdad, Coalition Forces approached a targeted building and called for the occupants to come out. Two men, a woman and four children exited the building, while several armed men were seen moving across the rooftop from an adjacent building.

Coalition Forces moved the women and children to a safe area away from the buildings and directed the men to surrender. The men began shooting at Coalition Forces and throwing grenades. One of the grenades started a fire in the building. Coalition Forces returned fire killing six terrorists. The two men who surrendered were detained for questioning.

The woman and her children were placed under Coalition Forces care until the area was deemed safe for return.

A raid in Yusufiyah targeted foreign fighter facilitators and individuals involved in the production of vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices. Upon arrival at the objective building, one terrorist fled the building and maneuvered toward the ground forces. Ground forces assessed the terrorist as hostile and shot and killed him. One suspected terrorist was detained.

While searching the building, Coalition Forces discovered materials and equipment used in the detonation of explosive devices.

During a raid in Mosul, Coalition Forces detained a suspected foreign terrorist facilitator.

Coalition Forces are working diligently to eliminate foreign terrorists trying to prevent the development and building of a new stable and peaceful Iraq.

Search yields ammunition, two suspects
2nd BCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized thousands of rounds of ammunition and detained two suspected insurgents during a security operation in eastern Baghdad Jan. 21.

Troops with 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, recovered approximately 7,000 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition during a neighborhood search.

The Soldiers were acting on a tip when they uncovered the cache. Two suspects were detained following the search.

The two suspects are being held for questioning.

Cavalry troops get taste of home in Taji
1st Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs

CAMP TAJI, Iraq -- More than 100 Little Caesars’ pizza kits—enough to feed 500 Soldiers-- were shipped to the unit from Detroit thanks to the generosity of a global security firm, a major restaurant chain, a major shipping company and a Fort Hood, Texas family readiness group.

Soldiers from Company B, 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division feasted on pizzas, cooked in a mobile field kitchen tent parked on their motor pool here.

The parents of Co. B’s Pfc. James Timmons, an infantryman and native of Walled Lake, Mich. arranged the impromptu pizza party for their son and members of his unit and sprang for the cost of shipping the pizzas to Iraq.

NOTE: Video coverage of this event is now available on the Digital Video Imagery Distribution System website at – http://www.dividshub.net.

IA Detains 3 Members Of Insurgent Cell During Raid
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – Soldiers of the 3rd Iraqi Army Division detained three suspected members of an insurgent cell during operations with coalition advisors Jan. 22 in the village of Ibrat As Saghirah, in northern Iraq. The insurgent cell is responsible for coordinating and carrying out mortar and small arms attacks against Iraqi civilians.

The insurgent cell is also suspected of being linked to al Qaeda in Iraq and supports them in their violent attacks against Iraqi security forces by providing them with weapons and supplies. Additionally, the cell has conducted numerous improvised explosive device and small arms attacks on Iraqi security checkpoints.

There was minimal damage done to the objective. There were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi forces or Coalition force casualties.

New Combat Outpost Built to Thwart Crime in Ghazaliya
2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment

BAGHDAD – Concrete walls and concertina wire roughly outline an area including six houses and a large open area in central Ghazaliya. Once this small area is completely encased, it will be the new home for 1st Cavalry Division’s Company C, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment.

Command Outpost Wildcard is under construction to allow Soldiers to quickly respond to violence and crime in the area. The former residents of the homes were paid to vacate the area homes and have relocated.

Four suspects seized, linked to Karbala attack
4th BCT (Airborne), 25th Inf. Div. Public Affairs

KALSU, Iraq – Iraqi Army troops, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers and a special Iraqi police unit from Hillah teamed up to detain four insurgents suspected of involvement in the Jan. 20 attack at the Karbala Provincial Joint Coordination Center.

Paratroopers with the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, and Iraqi security forces detained the four suspects Jan. 22 following a tip from a Karbala resident.

The suspects were found in a house near the area where the vehicles used in the attack were abandoned after insurgents made their get away from the scene.

The suspects are being held for further questioning.

Marines Discover 14 Caches in Al Anbar

Multi-National Force – West PAO

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq - Marines from 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5 uncovered 14 large caches during Operation Northern Venture in Al Anbar Province Sunday.

“The discovery of such caches is extremely important as it provides the Iraqi civilians a better sense of security,” said Lt. Col. Kenneth M. DeTreux, battalion commanding officer. “When we take these weapons away, we lessen the ability of the enemy to terrorize and intimidate civilians.”

While conducting patrols north of Fallujah, Marines discovered seven heavy machine guns, one small machine gun, six AK-47 assault rifles, one bolt-action rifle and two Iranian assault rifles. The cache also included 23 82 mm high explosive mortars, five 60 mm high explosive mortar rounds, one 120 mm high explosive mortar round, 4,263 rounds of 14.5 mm ammunition, 2,427 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, 87 rounds of 9 mm ammunition, 110 rounds of Z3 precision munitions, 131 Soviet rocket fuses, two hand grenade bodies, 12 hand grenade fuses, three gas masks with filters and a large assortment of weapons related equipment.

"The caches that we found were a mix of all sorts of ordnance from mortars to heavy machine guns,” said Maj. Sean M. Riordan, battalion executive officer. “There’s no doubt that the rural areas in Iraq contain numerous weapons caches, and the things we took away from the insurgency help to chip away at their tactical capabilities."

The Marines discovered the stockpiles in a combined cache hunt designed to interrupt insurgent activity in the area. Intelligence reports led the Marines to the area, and an immediate operation ensued to uncover the buried caches.

All explosive materials were destroyed on site while the machine guns, rifles and ammunition were brought to Camp Fallujah.

Stryker Force ready, on call for Iraq
7th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

CAMP STRYKER, Iraq – Strike hard! Strike fast! This could be the motto for the Stryker Readiness Force–Iraq, whose mission is to respond to threats across the battlefield of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“We do time sensitive targets (and) neighborhood clearances all around the city and its outlying areas,” said Staff Sgt. Gary Epley, a platoon sergeant with Company A, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment and a native of Louisville, Ky. “We have a secondary mission to deploy anywhere in Iraq between 24 and 72 hours in support of Coalition forces and Iraqi interests throughout the country.”

Part of what makes Stryker units so effective on the battlefield is their mobility, Epley said.

“There’s nothing else like it,” he said. “You can’t replicate the speed and force we bring into a fight. It just can’t be done.”

Each Stryker carries a squad of infantrymen or cavalry scouts to the front, where they quickly and efficiently flood the battle space, Epley said.

Though they don’t “own” any part of the Iraqi capital, the SRF–I adapts to an ever-changing battlefield, said Capt. Brent Clemmer, commanding officer of Co. C.

“We create a condition that allows for other security forces to come in a safe manner,” said Clemmer, who is a native of San Diego.

In 2002, the 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division was the first brigade in the Army to be outfitted with the Stryker. The unit conducted a round of initial training, as well as trips to the Joint Readiness Training Center on Fort Polk, La., and the National Training Center on Fort Irwin, Calif. Subsequently, the unit deployed to Mosul, Iraq, for a year-long deployment, Epley said.

After redeploying, the unit ramped up for its second deployment 15 months later.

“We were the first Stryker unit to come to Iraq,” Epley said. “Now, we’re the first Stryker unit to be deployed back to Iraq.

“I think we have excelled thus far in the missions we have had. I believe to have a unit, which is as mobile as we are, that can go anywhere in Iraq in literally hours to do somebody else’s mission, is irreplaceable,” Epley said.

While the Stryker vehicle, itself, has proven its worth on the battlefields of the Global War On Terrorism, it’s the Soldiers manning the vehicle who deserve most the credit, Clemmer said.

“The most powerful tool America has out here are these young American Soldiers. They amaze me every day,” he said.

“They do an incredibly tough job and they do it very well.”

Four detained in raid of suspected ‘safe house’
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD – Four suspected insurgents were detained after a raid on a suspected insurgent safe house south of the Iraqi capital Jan. 23.

Iraqi Army troops and Paratroopers from the 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division conducted the raid on the suspected terrorist safe house, which was believed to be used to hide insurgents and store weapons.

The four suspects are being held for further questioning.

Insurgents’ torture house found – three captives freed
Multi-National Force – West PAO

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – Coalition force members discovered a building with blood-stained walls in southeast of Fallujah Jan. 22 and rescued three Iraqis found shackled inside.

One of the victims was so badly beaten he had broken limbs. He was examined and quickly evacuated by Coalition forces to receive life-saving medical care.

During their patrol, Soldiers from B Company, 2nd Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment discovered multiple weapons caches in other nearby houses early this morning while conducting intelligence-driven searches. The discovery included a mortar targeting system and a sniper rifle with scope, as well as a Bongo truck with a mounted anti-aircraft gun and another vehicle rigged as a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device.

“This is a perfect example of how information can save lives,” said Coalition spokesman Major Alan F. Crouch. “More often it’s the Iraqi Army and police who use this information to help people, but the Coalition Forces will always be glad to use tips and information we receive to help civilians.”

The Guardsman from Minnesota also detained four suspects in one house and six suspects in another house. The suspects have been moved to a nearby base for questioning.

Once the bound hostages were rescued from the house with the blood-stained walls, the suspected “torture house” was destroyed by Coalition forces.

There were no other civilian, Iraqi security forces or Coalition force casualties reported.

Combined operation in Lutifiyah nets eight suspects
2nd BCT, 10th Mtn. Div. (LI) Public Affairs

LUTIFIYAH, Iraq — Coalition forces and Iraq Army troops detained eight suspected terrorists and seized weapons during a combat patrol northwest of Lutifiyah, Iraq Jan. 23.

Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) and the 1st Battalion, 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division were on a combat patrol when they came under a small arms fire attack from a canal.

The troops called in for aviation support after the attack ensued. One insurgent died in the aerial attack. The remaining four insurgents tried to escape down a canal. Iraqi troops pursued, killing the four terrorists.

Following the fire fight, troops searched the area for more insurgents. They found nine Iraqis hiding in a nearby house. Eight of the nine were detained, all wanted for suspected terrorist acts.

The search also turned up a weapons cache consisting of three medium machine guns, two AK-47 assault rifles, a shotgun and a sniper rifle with a scope.

The eight suspects are being held for further questioning.

Three detained, weapons found during Operation Black Eagle II
2nd BCT, 10th Mtn. Div. (LI) Public Affairs

RUSHDI MULLAH, Iraq — Coalition forces detained three suspected terrorists and found weapons during a combat operation in Mahmudiyah, Iraq Jan. 23.

Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) worked with troops from the 2nd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division during Operation Black Eagle II, aimed at denying anti-Iraqi forces sanctuary within the Mahmudiyah area.

During the operation, the Soldiers detained three suspected terrorists for suspicious activity. Weapons found during the operation included two AK-47 bandoleers and two Katusha rocket casings.

The suspects are being held for further questioning.

Three Terrorists Captured During Baghdad Raid

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Three suspected terrorists were captured during a raid Wednesday north of Baghdad targeting an individual with ties to a senior al-Qaida leader who has executed Iraqi civilians and conducted extortion operations against the Iraqi people.

During the raid of a known terrorist safe house, Coalition Forces used a small explosives charge to gain entrance into the building. Once inside, Coalition Forces detained the targeted individual and two others.

Coalitions Forces provided immediate medical care to a 12-year old male injured during the forced entry. Coalition forces then evacuated the child to a local medical facility but he died upon arrival.

Coalition Forces regret the child’s death and strive to mitigate risks to civilians while in pursuit of terrorists.
Terrorists and those who harbor terrorists continue to put innocent Iraqis in harms way. Terrorists do not hesitate to deliberately place innocent Iraqi women and children in danger by their actions and presence.

Operation ‘Wolverine Feast’ nets 10 terrorists, 4 weapons caches
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD — Coalition and Iraqi Army soldiers detained 10 suspects and seized four caches in the Al-Doura district as part of Operation Wolverine Feast Jan. 24.

The operation began as witnesses reported seeing several men load a mortar tube and ammunition into the trunk of a car.

Company C, 1st Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division and 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division were alerted and cordoned off the target area. They then conducted a systematic clearance of the area.

In the first objective they captured one wanted man with an 82mm mortar system, two AK-47 assault rifles, a 9mm pistol and two hand grenades.
A sweep of a second targeted area uncovered six men with 10 120mm mortar rounds.
The third cache found contained a 60mm mortar system and various rocket-propelled grenade launchers and RPG rounds. Three men were detained at this location.
The last cache contained several RPG rockets and accelerators.
The ten suspects detained in the operation are being held for further questioning.
The weapons were confiscated and the munitions were destroyed on the scene.

13 suspected terrorists detained in raids

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained 13 suspected terrorists during raids Thursday morning in Karmah and Mosul.

In Karmah, 12 suspected terrorists were detained. Intelligence reports indicate the detainees have key logistical ties to the al-Qaida in Iraq network and to improvised explosive device production. Reports indicate that they are responsible for the recent increase in IED attacks in the Karmah area. During the raid, Coalition Forces found several AK-47s and ammunition.

In Mosul, Coalition Forces captured a foreign fighter facilitator with ties to a senior al-Qaida leader responsible for bringing large numbers of suicide bombers into Iraq.

The capture of these detainees reduces the threat to the Iraqi people and Coalition Forces and brings Coalition Forces one step closer to stopping foreign terrorists from entering Iraq.

IP Detains Six During Operations Near Fallujah
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Police Forces detained six suspected members of an insurgent cell during operations with Coalition advisors Jan. 23 in Fuhaylat, near Fallujah. The insurgent cell is believed to be responsible for carrying out improvised explosive device attacks against Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition force members.

The insurgent cell is reportedly linked to Al Qaeda in Iraq.

Polish Military Contingent Changes Command
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

CAMP ECHO, Iraq – The Multi-National Division Central South transferred authority in a ceremony Jan. 24 at Camp Echo, Iraq.

“Our mission has just finished; we are going home,” said Maj. Gen. Bronislaw Kwiatkowski, commander, MND-CS.

During the ceremony, Kwiatkowski reported to Lt. Gen. Ray Odierno, commander, MNC-I, about progress in the region. Eighth Iraqi Division Soldiers participated alongside Coalition Forces in the ceremony, which involved Kwiatkowski handing the MND-CS flag to the incoming commander, Maj. Gen. Pawel Lamla.

A day prior to the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Grzegorz Buszka relinquished command of the Battle Combat Team to Maj. Gen. Miroslaw Rozanski at Camp Delta, Iraq.

Seventh rotation Soldiers took huge steps toward bringing the provinces together, said Vice Ministry of Defense Marek Zajakala. “You outstandingly performed your tasks and missions during (your) tour of duty.”

Zajakala also thanked Kwiatkowski for his personal engagement and determination. “I wish you and all your Soldiers (a) safe and happy homecoming, and
for VIII rotation Soldiers continuation of ongoing accomplishment of their predecessors.”

Abdel Kader Jassem Al Obaidi of the Iraqi Ministry of Defense joined unit leaders near the ceremony’s end. The governor of Al Quadisiyah province, Khalil Jalil Hamza, recognized the accomplishments of VII rotation Soldiers, and a multi-national military parade concluded the ceremony.

Iraqis hold reopening celebration for school
Multi-National Force – West PAO

AR RAMADI – An Iraqi neighborhood north of Ramadi celebrated the reopening of its combined primary and secondary school Tuesday by sharing the moment with visiting Iraqi Army Soldiers and Coalition Forces.

Community leaders asked Maj. Derek Horst, civil affairs team leader with the 4th Civil Affairs Group, to cut the ribbon for the Al Haitham School, which provides classes for the Abu Jassim tribe.

The school was temporarily closed in November for renovations. Tribal leader Sheik Taher, who oversaw the renovations, led a group of community leaders and military personnel on a brief tour of the building after the ribbon cutting.

First Lt. Stuart Barnes, a civil affairs team leader with B Company, 486th Civil Affairs Battalion, said attendance at the school shows stability in the area continues to increase.

“We’re making progress day after day,” he said.
The school, which began holding classes again earlier this month, hosts an estimated 200 to 300 students, Barnes said.

Maj. Derek Horst, civil affairs team leader with the 4th Civil Affairs Group and Task Force 2-37 Armor, cuts the ribbon for the renovated Al Haitham School. Tribal leader Sheik Taher holds the ribbon. (Sgt. Gary A. Witte, RFCT PAO)

Regimental Combat Team 6 assumes responsibility for area of operation
Multi-National Force – West PAO

CAMP FALLUJAH – Regimental Combat Team 6 successfully conducted a relief-in-place with Regimental Combat Team 5 and assumed responsibility for an area of operations in eastern Al Anbar province Wednesday.

During its deployment, RCT-5 has witnessed the apprehension of Jill Carroll’s captors, the blossoming of the Habbaniyah Police Department, and the expansion of 2nd Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division’s battle space.

“I feel very good about what we have been able to contribute to Iraqi Security Forces’ development,” said Col. Larry D. Nicholson, RCT-5 commanding officer.

“The future of the city resides not in the Marines, but in the Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police.”

“This is a historic moment in the history of the 5th and 6th Marines Regiments,” Nicholson said. “Our first battles were fought alongside each other 90 years ago in Belleau Wood and started a unique legacy our regiments share.

The fact that our regiments are serving alongside each other once again in the Long War on Terror is telling of the commitment we hold deeply for our Corps and country.”

The regiments served alongside each other in battles in France during WWI and earned the French Fourragere, a decoration awarded by the French government in lieu of a second Croix de Guerre, which is still worn by Marines in both regiments today.

“These two regiments were born during a time of national crisis and have served our nation in every clime and place since,” Nicholson said. “It’s fitting that during this time when our nation needs us the most, Marines from 5th and 6th Marine Regiments are answering that call.”

RCT-6 officially took responsibility for the area at 8 a.m. local time Jan. 24. However, the RCT-6 staff has been in theater for several weeks learning the ropes from their RCT-5 counterparts while conducting the relief-in-place.
“We look forward to continuing with the successes that our predecessors have achieved,” said Col. Richard L. Simcock, commanding officer, Regimental Combat Team 6. “Regimental Combat Team 5 has done a phenomenal job in the area of operations.

The Marines and Sailors of the 5th Marine Regiment deserve a great deal of credit in being the supporting element for the Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police.”

“We look forward to interacting with and working alongside Iraqi Security Forces in order to continue the Iraqi-led fight against those who oppose a peaceful Iraq,” said Simcock. “We will help those who want help and we will eliminate those who defy the will of the freely-elected Iraqi government.”

The main priorities for RCT-6 over the next year will be assessing, training and
operating with Iraqi Security Forces in the greater Fallujah area.

Units from the Camp Lejeune, N.C.-based RCT will partner with Iraqi Army units at the regimental and battalion levels. In addition, some members of the RCT will work closely with Iraqi Police organizations.

RCT-6 is comprised of units from all four Marine Divisions.

Several units that were assigned to RCT-5 will fall under RCT-6 until their scheduled rotation.

The major units within RCT-6 include the 6th Marine regimental headquarters and three infantry battalions from Camp Lejeune, N.C. Also part of RCT-6, is another infantry battalion from the 24th Marine Regiment in Mich., a reconnaissance battalion from Okinawa, Japan, a tank company, engineer company, amphibious assault company and artillery battery from Camp Lejeune.

While RCT-6 is scheduled to remain deployed to the Al Anbar Province for approximately 12 months, the subordinate units will continue to follow their planned rotation schedule.

RCT-5 will return to Camp Pendleton, Calif., after operating for 12 months in the greater Fallujah area, as well as the cities of Karmah, Ameriyah, Saqlawiyah, Habbaniyah, Ferris, Nasser Wa Salaam and Khalidiyah.

Col. Richard L. Simcock, commanding officer, Regimental Combat Team 6, exchanges a farewell handshake and a gift with the commanding officer of Regimental Combat Team 5, Col. Larry D. Nicholson. RCT-6 relieved RCT-5 in a ceremony at Camp Fallujah Jan. 24.

“We look forward to continuing with the successes that our predecessors have achieved,” said Simcock.

Combined Effort Provides Aid to Adhamiyah Residents
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

By Staff Sgt. W. Wayne Marlow
2nd BCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq — Residents of the Adhamiyah section of eastern Baghdad picked up needed supplies following a visit by Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division and their Iraqi Army counterparts this week.

In coordination with the Adhamiyah District Council, U.S. and Iraqi troops delivered clothes, toys, vitamins, and toiletries to over 500 residents in a local theater. Especially popular with the youth were soccer balls and comic books. Also, a U.S. medic treated a woman with low blood sugar.

It would have been impossible to deliver the goods without U.S.-Iraqi cooperation, according to Capt. Drew Corbin, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment.

“The Iraqi police were very helpful today,” he said. “They provided security and helped distribute the humanitarian assistance bags.”

1st Lt. Nathaniel Waggoner of 1-26 echoed Corbin’s sentiments.

“The Adhamiyah District Council played a huge role during today’s events,” he said. “They coordinated for the entire event and then worked side-by-side with the Iraqi Army, Iraqi police, and U.S. forces.”

“We really made a difference today,” added Capt. Jared Purcell of 1-26. The humanitarian assistance drop is part of a U.S.-Iraqi effort to reduce sectarian violence and help bring security to Baghdad.

Iraqi Army stops illegal checkpoint after tip from resident
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

By Capt. David Levasseur
2nd BCT, 1st Inf. Div. PAO

BAGHDAD — A tip from a local citizen to an Iraqi Army unit enabled them to stop an illegal checkpoint in the western Baghdad neighborhood of Ghazaliyah Jan. 24.

Shortly after noon, an unidentified Iraqi phoned Company C, 4th Battalion, 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army stating that a number of men had set up an illegal checkpoint in a southern Ghazaliyah neighborhood.

A patrol was dispatched to the area and upon arrival was engaged by AK-47 and pistol fire. The patrol returned fire but was unable to prevent the escape of the terrorists.

The patrol did confiscate a black Daewoo sedan and a motorcycle left behind when the terrorists fled.

Illegal checkpoints are common in this neighborhood. They are often used to initiate sectarian violence by asking for the identification cards of passing motorists to identify those of an opposing sect.

Operation Warm-Up delivers the goods in Tal’ Afar
Multi-National Division – North PAO

TAL’ AFAR – Students from the Kawla and Darar Primary Schools received an assortment of winter clothing, to combat the cold weather, school supplies, and additional treats from Tal’ Afar Mayor Najim, Iraqi Police officers, and Soldiers of the 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment during Operation Warm-Up Monday.

Mayor Najim and the delegation traveled from classroom to classroom rewarding the students with winter clothing and an Iraqi flag.

In addition, the school headmaster at each location was provided a First-Aid kit, with instructions for medication translated into Arabic.

The total items distributed included 280 items of winter clothing, 650 pencils, 250 pens, 200 erasers, 60 spiral notebooks, and 30 folders. Every child received school supplies and candy.

Operation Warm-Up was a targeted mission conducted as part of the ongoing IP and 3-4 Cavalry humanitarian assistance program Operation Kids.

By Pfc. William Hatton
7th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment


CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – On an exceptionally windy day in Iraq, a small lake on the camp looked like a vicious sea as three men prepared boats for a voyage. Each man had one goal in mind, winning a race with high stakes and reputations on the line.

As the boats were lowered into the water everyone began to wonder who would pilot their vessel across the wind-swept waves and surface as the victor.

Everything was on the line and tension was rising as the question of who would win grew. As the boats glided past the launch point, not even 10 feet from the starting line, all three boats capsized, bringing the race to an abrupt halt.

OK, maybe the boats are no bigger than a rucksack, but the emotions were still high for the ‘captains’ of these vessels. For Spc. Charles Marshall and friends, building and racing small boats brings joy and excitement to not so exciting place.

Marshall, an arms room orderly with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Division Special Troops Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, said he spent countless days building and perfecting his boat for the race among his friends.

The idea to build boats originally came from HHC’s executive officer, said Marshal, a native of Wheeling, W.V. The officer had built boats back at home when he was a young.

After the company exec built his own boat for fun, he convinced another Soldier to build one as well. Marshall ended up helping that Soldier to build his boat, and was inspired to build his own ship.
“After helping my friend build one, I felt that I should make one, too,” said Marshall.

Now that the desire to build a boat was there, the fun part was about to begin. Designing, building and testing were what Marshall was about to encounter.

“Trying to decide how I wanted to build it and what materials I wanted to use was one of the hardest parts,” Marshall said.

Everything about designing the boat was important, Marshall said. Choosing which sails to hoist, what to use for floatation and what counterweights were needed were all the thoughts that went into the process, he added.
“I used everything from water bottles, cut up t-shirts, wood, screws, 550 cord, a magnet from a power converter and a door hinge,” Marshall said.
After spending a long and enduring time building the ship, testing it was just as important, Marshall said.

“I took the boat out for six or seven actual tests to make sure it was going to work,” Marshall said.

Everything from making sure of the boat’s buoyancy to trying different weights went into the testing, Marshall said.

After trial and error, it became evident that the boat leaned too much to the left, Marshall said. In efforts to solve the problem, Marshall used a door hinge to help counterbalance, allowing the boat to glide smoothly across the water.

With the boat ready for the open seas, it was time to put it to the ultimate test. Racing.

After Marshall finished his boat, talks began about when and where the race would be held, Marshall said. After a number of postponements a date was finally picked, and no matter what, Marshall said, the racers were going to race that day.

Leading up to the race, there was a lot of hype and trash talk circulated between the racers. Everyone was excited to see what the outcome would be, Marshall added.

The day of the race would be a wild one, as winds blew at gale force speeds. Ignoring the weather conditions, the racers agreed to continue the race, Marshall said.

“I was actually pretty excited going into the race,” Marshall said. “My big thoughts were, ‘What kind of competition am I really up against?’”

As the racers placed their boats into the water at the starting point, hopes were high, Marshall said.
What came next would be something unexpected, something unthinkable.

After letting go, the ships started to speed away, Marshall said, but one by one, they all fell over.
Although the race was a bust, Marshall said the members of the newly-formed Iraqi Boating Club had big laughs and lessons learned, Marshall said.

“We plan on rebuilding and doing this more often,” Marshall said.

With one race in the books, it’s time for the racers to go back to the drawing board, perfect their boats and get ready for their next race.

MND-B Soldiers Discover Multiple Caches in Southwest Baghdad
2nd BCT, 1st Inf. Div. Public Affairs

BAGHDAD – Reacting to a tip provided by local residents, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers discovered three large caches in the Jihad neighborhood of the Iraqi capital Jan. 24.

The timely and accurate tip provided by citizens of the area led Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, to the location of the caches. The caches consisted of seven rocket-propelled grenade launchers, two mortar tubes, more than 80 mortar rounds, two 30mm rockets, two heavy machine guns, two roadside bombs, one block of plastic explosive and nearly 2000 rounds of small arms ammunition.

“The success of this mission resulted in these items being removed from the hands of the insurgents,” said Capt. Philip Hensel, 1st Bn., 18th Inf. Regt. “(It) increases security for American and Iraqi forces and citizens by taking dangerous weapons out of the hands of insurgents and terrorists.”

ISF captures five members of illegally armed militia
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – Special Iraqi Police Forces captured five members of an illegally armed militia and detained seven others during operations with Coalition advisors Jan. 24 near Kawam, south of Baghdad. The suspects are allegedly responsible for coordinating and carrying out numerous improvised explosive device and other attacks against Iraqi Police, Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Forces in the Babil Province.

There was minimal damage done to the objective. There were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi Forces or Coalition Forces casualties.

Tags:
Iraq
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War on Terror
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101st Fighting Keyboardists

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