7th Monthly Regional Security Council Meeting
By 1LT Dana Scott
2-8 FA, 1/25 ID
FOB ENDURANCE, Iraq – Maj. Gen. David Rodriguez, Task Force (TF) Freedom Commander, was the distinguished speaker for this month’s Regional Security Council meeting. The meeting, taking place on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Endurance on May 26th, gathered together over 500 key leaders of Ninewah Province and Mosul.
Planning for the meeting began immediately following last month’s meeting on April 24th. After attendees spent about two hours in the Moral Welfare and Recreation (MWR) center, they were to proceed to the 1/3 Iraqi Army Battalion compound. There, Commander Brig. Gen. Malooh Atala Ali provided lunch with over 50 sheep and 50 fish for the local leaders.
Imam Makes a Difference
By 1LT Dana Scott
2-8 FA, 1/25 ID
MOSUL, Iraq – May 25th marked the second time in recent weeks that Imam Abdul Sufyan from the Qayarrah village was willing to travel to Mosul, and speak on Iraqi Media Network’s (IMN) radio.
Sufyan flew out of Qayarrah-West by helicopter with interpreter Ghassan and escort First Lt. Dana Scott, both from Task Force Automatic. Upon arrival, they linked up with Maj. Michael Petrunyak and Cpt. Jon Pendell, from the 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, and drove via Strykers to the radio show.
Iraq Report
Winds of Change has published its weekly Iraq Report, with links to news and analysis of recent events there.
Back from Iraq for a short stay
The following is part two of a column by Rachel Howard (read part one).
Link to Full Article
By Rachel Howard, The San Francisco Chronicle
Already Mom and I feared we would hardly see Emmet during his 15-day leave from Iraq, and we sat on edge for indications of how much time Emmet would set aside for us. He was 23, six years my junior; he had partying to do. For the next three days we counted ourselves lucky to take Emmet out to breakfast at Denny's per his request. When Emmet wasn't with us, Mom trucked back and forth to Costco, exchanging camera accessories, getting his digital pictures developed. By the third breakfast we had his stack of photos, and we thumbed through them over "Meat Lovers Skillets," which Emmet, ever frugal, ordered without the meat because the "Meat Lovers" were cheaper than plain scrambled eggs.
Iraq war vet stirs crowd at Capitol
Link to Full Article
BY KATHERINE TAM, THE OLYMPIAN
DJ Skelton carries the battle scars of Iraq on his body.
He lost his left eye, upper palate and partial use of his left arm, but he's refusing to leave the Army without a fight. He's working to prove he can still perform so he can keep his active-duty status. He'll know this summer whether he's successful.
Memorial Day
"Not only are they commemorated by columns and inscriptions, but there dwells also an unwritten memorial of them, graven not on stone but in the hearts of men." -- Pericles (c. 600 B.C.E.)
Our coverage of Memorial Day continues below.
SFC Randy D. Collins
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
SFC Randy D. Collins, 36, of Long Beach, CA, died May 24 at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., of injuries sustained in Mosul, Iraq, May 4 during a mortar attack. Collins was assigned to the Army's 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, CA.
We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers Collins leaves behind. This entry will remain at the top of the page today; please scroll down for recent news.
A number of innocent Iraqis killed in second terrorist attack of day
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 28, 2005) – Eight innocent Iraqi civilians were killed and a number more wounded during the second terrorist attack in northern Iraq today.
Eight Iraqi civilians, including, children, were killed when an improvised explosive device detonated in a central Mosul neighborhood. An unknown number of injured civilians were transported to a local hospital. The attacks are under investigation.
Innocent civilians again victimized in terrorist attacks
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 28, 2005) – At least ten innocent Iraqi civilians were injured during a terrorist attack in northern Iraq today.
The Iraqi civilians were injured in a car bombing south of Sinjar. The injured were transported to a local hospital for treatment. The attacks are under investigation.
'There was a lot of death'
Soldiers from Maine's 133rd reflect on their time in Mosul.
Link to Full Article
BY NICK SAMBIDES, OF THE NEWS STAFF
John Nelson has a small hunk of shrapnel that needs to be cut out of his neck, and it probably will be in a few weeks. Other flecks of ball-bearing-gauge metal float in the flesh on his shoulder blades like tiny steel pins, so numerous and difficult for surgeons to find and remove that they'll probably stay in him for the rest of his life.
Articles of Interest
Here are a few non-Stryker related items I've been meaning to share.
- Iraq Report, 05/23 - Published by Winds of Change.
- Good news from Iraq, part 28 - From Arthur Chrenkoff.
- U.S. To Consolidate Iraq Bases - Article from AFX News mentions bases in Mosul.
Shiek Ibrahim Cordon and Search Conducted Without a Hitch
1LT Dana Scott, 2-8 FA, 1/25 ID
SHEIK IBRAHIM, Iraq – On May 16th the 1st and 2nd Iraqi Army (IA) Battalions, 3rd Brigade, led by Brig. Gen. Ali Atalah Malowh and Lt. Col. Ra’ad Naif Haroosh, conducted a combined operation in the village Sheik Ibrahim, with Coalition forces (CF) from Task Force (TF) Automatic, C/2-8 Field Artillery (FA) and C/113 Engineer (EN) Battalions.
Recent intelligence reports suggested that during Task Force (TF) Automatic’s operation in Muhallabiyah last week, several key insurgent cell members escaped to the nearby village of Sheikh Ibrahim. According to a source, these individuals had set up a VBIED operation in this village, possibly to replace the VBIED factory that was found and destroyed by TF Automatic in Muhallabiyah.
100 Additional Jobs Soon to be Created in Qayarrah
By 1LT Dana Scott, 2-8 FA, 1/25 ID
QAYARRAH, Iraq – The monthly Qayarrah Area Security Meeting took place on May 16th on Forward Operating Base Endurance. Topics covered during the meeting included security, power, and water, among several other concerns.
B/2-8 Field Artillery Company Commander, Cpt. Ryan Gist, opened the meeting discussing the many good things that have happened in the region during the past month. Successes included the local law enforcement making headway in the fight against terrorists, as well as an abundance of new police equipment, which has been distributed to the local police stations.
SGT Mike Buyas Homecoming
Lynda Pheasant sent us the following report on the homecoming of SGT Mike Buyas, and the community's fundraising efforts on his familiy's behalf. Also included are links to two articles in the Wenatchee World newspaper. This is an inspiring story to lead us into the Memorial Day Weekend.
3 Fallen Stryker Soldiers Remembered
Link to Full Article (Video included)
By Keith Eldridge- KOMO News
FORT LEWIS - A tough start to the Memorial Day weekend as Fort Lewis pays tribute to three Strykers killed in the fighting in Iraq. The loss is hitting the troops hard and also a local community with special ties to the Strykers.
Army Chaplain David Shoffner tells crowd, "We come to mourn, to remember and to honor our brothers who have fallen."
DoD Briefing with General Ham
General Carter Ham, former commander of Task Force Olympia in Mosul, led a press briefing at the Pentagon that focused on the situation in Iraq. The entire transcript is quite long, but provides some good information.
2-1 INF Photo from JRTC
PFC Anthony DelReal, SPC Marcellus Carrington and SGT Jeremiah Johnson from HHC, 2-1 INF, are pictured in this recent photo from JRTC, Ft. Polk, LA.
Face to face - 172nd meets, greets, tangles with Iraqis
Link to Full Article with 5 Photos
This is the second of three weekly articles describing the 172nd's training at JRTC, Ft. Polk, LA
Story and photos by Brian Lepley
U.S. Army Alaska PAO
FORT POLK, La. – Total Army training realism is often sought but seldom achieved.
Try as they might, replicating the exact conditions of combat will always be elusive for the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, given the chaos that ensues on the actual battlefield.
The Joint Readiness Training Center has come as close as the Arctic Wolves have ever seen. From actual Iraqis as role players to incendiary devices acting as IEDs, blowing up mere meters away from vehicles and foot patrols, the brigade spent most of May encountering challenges similar to what they’ll face when they deploy to Iraq later this summer.
Security Forces continue to apprehend terrorists in northern Iraq
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 26, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained seven suspected terrorists and seized a cache during operations in northern Iraqi Thursday.
Soldiers from the 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment detained six suspected terrorists in operations south of Mosul. Items confiscated from the individuals included a sniper rifle with 600 rounds of ammunition, AK-47s with ammunition, and a shotgun. The individuals were taken into custody with no MNF injuries to report.
Chief of Police and two Iraqi police assassinated
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 26, 2005) – An Iraqi Chief of Police and two Iraqi police were assassinated in northern Mosul Wednesday.
The Chief of Police of al Sharqat, Miklif Mussa, and two Iraqi police were assassinated at Mosul University. This is the latest of terrorists targeting civil servants for assassinations.
Security Forces continue to pressure terrorists in northern Iraq
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 26, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained one suspected terrorist and seized a cache during operations in northern Iraqi Wednesday.
Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity during a raid in southern Mosul Wednesday. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Memorial Service
A memorial service will be held for 1LT Aaron Seesan, SGT Benjamin Morton, and SPC Tyler Creamean on Thursday, May 26th at 10:00 AM at the Evergreen Chapel, Ft. Lewis.
Brigade soldiers rescue pair of Iraqi hostages
Link to Full Article
MATT MISTEREK; The News Tribune
MOSUL, Iraq – They’ve uncovered caches of enemy weapons and flushed out a variety of shady characters since coming to Iraq last fall.
But the most astonishing find of the war for several Tacoma-area soldiers turned up this week in a secret room behind a bookshelf in a northeast Mosul basement.
Women face growing combat roles in Iraq
Link to Full Article
By Ann Scott Tyson, The Washington Post
MOSUL, Iraq — Jennifer Guay went to war to be a grunt. And the 170-pound former bartender from Leeds, Maine, with cropped red hair and a penchant for the bench press, has come pretty close.
It was mid-February and Guay, 26, an Army specialist who was the first woman to be assigned as an infantry combat medic, was spending 10 hours a day on missions with the 82nd Airborne Division, dodging rockets and grenades in the crowded streets of Mosul. [...]
Memorial Day Calendar
The News Tribune has compiled a comprehensive list of Memorial Day events for the Puget Sound region.
SPC Tyler L. Creamean
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
SPC Tyler L. Creamean died on May 22 in Mosul, Iraq, from injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Creamean was assigned to the 73rd Engineer Company, Fort Lewis, WA.
We extend our deepest sympathies to SPC Creamean's wife, KaMisha Hickman-Creamean, and his entire family. KaMisha maintained an album on our site if you'd like to browse the photos of SPC Creamean.
Please scroll down for today's news.
SGT Benjamin C. Morton
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
SGT Benjamin C. Morton, 24, of Wright, Kan., died May 22, in Mosul, Iraq, when his dismounted patrol encountered enemy small arms fire. Morton was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, WA.
We would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and comrades SGT Morton leaves behind.
ISF seize weapons caches
(TFF Press Release)
Iraqi Security Forces seized two weapons caches during operations in northern Iraq Wednesday.
Iraqi Police seized a weapons cache during an operation northeast of Mosul. The cache included hundreds mortar rounds.
Michael Yon Dispatch
Embedded author Michael Yon has a new dispatch from Mosul published on his website.
ISF capture large group of suspected terrorists
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 24, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 32 suspected terrorists and seized a number of weapons during operations in northern Iraq today.
Troops from 1st Battalion, 3rd Brigade Iraqi Intervention Force, 1st Battalion, 3rd Brigade Iraqi Commando, and 2nd Battalion, 2nd Brigade Iraqi Army detained 30 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in western Mosul. Suspects are in custody with no ISF injuries reported.
Iraqi citizen leads in rescue operation
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 23, 2005) – Two kidnapped Iraqi citizens were rescued thanks to another citizen who led Multi-National Force Soldiers to the house where they were being held captive in northern Iraq today.
Despite its flaws, troops prefer Stryker
Link to Full Article
By Sandra Jontz, Stars and Stripes
FORWARD OPERATING BASE MAREZ, Iraq — In spite of its flaws, there is no other vehicle Stryker Brigade Combat Team soldiers say they would rather be in.
Some soldiers say the Stryker’s safety factor outweighs the litany of shortcomings outlined last year in an internal study by the Center for Army Lessons Learned at Fort Leavenworth, Kan.
Four-star chow hall
Link to Full Article
MATT MISTEREK; The News Tribune
MOSUL, Iraq – The tile floors and marble-pattern tables and chairs gleam with a shade of white seldom seen at this dust-choked U.S. Army base. Filipino workers in tuxedo vests and matching ties keep the food stations heaped with fresh fruit and salads; others distribute gourmet-looking desserts from a well-stocked glass case.
Terrorists show disregard for citizens, injure three
TFF Press Release
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 22, 2005) – Three innocent Iraqi civilians were injured during a terrorist attack in northern Iraq Saturday.
Mortar rounds exploded injuring the three civilians in Tal Afar. The injured were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Terrorist attacks like this are becoming more frequent and reckless, with terrorists continually disregarding the safety of innocent Iraqi civilians.
Fort Lewis allows civilians a glimpse of military life
AARON CORVIN; The News Tribune
Standing under the green-and-white-striped tent, Preston Chanpuang, a wiry 14-year-old, lobbed questions and absorbed the Special Forces recruiter’s answers.
“The Air Force is an easier life,” the recruiter told him, “but you’ve got to go with what you want.”
What Chanpuang wants is to serve in the military. His family lives at Fort Lewis. His dad is a Stryker brigade member. When he was younger he donned his dad’s Kevlar helmet and yelled: “Duck and cover!”
“I’m learning everything about what I want to do,” said Chanpuang, who was among an estimated 17,000 people who swarmed Fort Lewis on Saturday to honor the United States military during the 17th annual Armed Forces Day.
Survivor recovers, comes back to Iraq post
MATT MISTEREK; The News Tribune
MOSUL, Iraq – Spc. Don Larson couldn’t see. His skin felt like it was on fire and his legs hurt like somebody had whacked them with a bat.
It was Dec. 21 and a suicide bomber had just blown himself to bits in the dining facility – DFAC, in Army shorthand – at Forward Operating Base Marez. Larson lay on the floor with second-degree burns on his face and hands and four shrapnel wounds in his legs. He didn’t yet know the blindness would pass.
But the Fort Lewis soldier and Steilacoom resident had a wife and a son back home, with another boy on the way. He was determined to stay as upbeat as possible.
“From the moment they picked me up from the DFAC that day, I said to myself, ‘It will do me no good to be negative,’” Larson recounted last week. “‘I will not scream out in pain because there are enough people around me already in pain.’”[...]
ISF continue to grow in their ability to provide security
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 21, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained four suspected terrorists and seized a weapons cache during operations in northern Iraq today.
Iraqi Police alongside Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment detained four individuals suspected of terrorist activity during raids in central Mosul. Suspects are in custody with no ISF or MNF injuries reported.
Bush honors wounded chaplain
President Bush honored an injured Twin Cities military chaplain during an address at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast on Friday in Washington, D.C.
"This morning we pray for the many Catholics who serve America in the cause of freedom," Bush said at the second annual event. "One of them is an army chaplain named Tim Vakoc. He's a beloved priest who was seriously wounded in Iraq last May. We pray for his recovery; we're inspired by his sacrifice.
Armed Forces Day
Saturday, May 21st is Armed Forces Day. Provided below is a brief history of this tradition, courtesy of the Department of Defense website.
2-1 INF Photo
PFC Anthony DeLaReal, from Headquarters Co., 2-1 INF, is pictured in this photo from JRTC training at Ft. Polk, LA.
DOD Photo by PFC Leslie Angulo, U.S. Army
Michael Yon Dispatch
Embedded author Michael Yon has a long dispatch from Mosul on his website.
New Stryker Magnets
One of our visitors, David Karau, has decided to start another magnet project featuring a few different designs. Provided below is all the information you need about the designs, cost, ordering instructions etc. Thanks David for taking on this project.
TNT Photos
News Tribune photographer Peter Hayley has posted a handful of photos, some featuring the 3-21 INF. Fair warning - one is quite graphic.
Security Force operations net top terror suspects
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 20, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained 12 suspected terrorists in northern Iraq today and Thursday.
Surprise sweep reveals terrorist-free Iraqi town
Another article from Stars & Stripes featuring the 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery.
Link to Full Article
By Sandra Jontz, Stars and Stripes
SHEIK IBRAHIM, Iraq — Mohammed Said Abudullah let out an incredulous laugh when asked if terrorists had provided his impoverish villagers with money to harbor weapons and provide a hideout.
“Look at what our children are wearing,” he said, pointing to their broken sandals and tattered clothing. “Look at the dirt on their faces. We are poor. There are no terrorists here. They have not given us money.”
Michael Yon Photos
Embedded author Michael Yon has posted some new photos from Iraq on his website.
172nd Finds New Iraq-Centric JRTC to Their Liking
This is the first of three weekly stories from Alaska e-Post that will document the 172nd's experience at JRTC.
Link to Full Article with 7 photos
Story and Photos by Brian Lepley, U.S. Army Alaska PAO
FORT POLK, La. – This is not your father’s Joint Readiness Training Center.
While many 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team Soldiers have done JRTC rotations in the past, those were nothing like what the Arctic Wolves experienced this month.
Since late 2003, JRTC has constantly revamped operations based on after action reports from Operation Iraqi Freedom. The 172nd’s warfighters appreciated the relevancy of the updated operations.
172nd SBCT Photos from JRTC
Here are 6 new Combat Camera photos of the 172nd training at JRTC, Ft. Polk, LA. The first five depict B Company , 2-1 INF, while the last shows members of the 4-11 FA.(one, two, three, four, five, six)
U.S. Army Photos by PFC Leslie Angulo and SPC Joshua Balog
SGT Jacob M. Simpson
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
SGT Jacob M. Simpson, 24, of Ashland, Oregon died May 16, in Tal Afar, Iraq, when a rocket propelled grenade struck the building he was securing. Simpson was assigned to the Army's 2d Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment from Fort Carson, CO, which is operating alongside elements of the Stryker Brigade in Tal Afar.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and fellow soldiers he leaves behind. We will include any additional articles we find below.
Two car bombs detonated prematurely
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 19, 2005) – An attempted terrorist attack failed when two car bombs detonated prematurely in northern Iraq today.
Two terrorists were killed when their two car bombs exploded prematurely in a northern Mosul neighborhood. Iraqi Police investigated the scene seizing four RPG rounds, one RPG launcher, five grenades, one grenade launcher, and small arms ammunition recovered from the second car bomb. No Iraqi civilians or ISF injuries were reported.
Operations continue in northern Iraq
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 19, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained nine suspected terrorists during operations in northern Iraqi Wednesday and today.
Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment detained eight individuals suspected of terrorist activity during cordon and search operations in western and southern Mosul today. Soldiers from the 1-24th also detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in southwestern Mosul Wednesday. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Iraqi citizens take part in securing Iraq
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 19, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) responded to a tip from Iraqi children concerning a roadside bomb in northern Mosul today.
TNT Blog Entries
Reporter Matt Misterek of The News Tribune has a couple new entries on the blog he's maintaining while in Iraq.
Iraqi citizens helping make northern Iraq more secure
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 17, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained five suspected terrorists, seized a number of weapons thanks to an Iraqi civilian’s tip, and defused a number of explosives during operations in northern Iraq today and Monday.
Mosul Photos
A number of new photos from Mosul have appeared at both Getty Images and Yahoo! News Photos since the last time we posted these links. Included are pictures from Sunday's Toby Keith performance and photos of the 1-5 INF conducting operations in Mosul.
3-21 INF Photos
Here are four new Combat Camera photos (one, two, three, four) of the 3-21 INF, taken May 6, 2005 in Mosul.
U.S. Army Photos by SPC Jory C. Randall
Articles of Interest
- Iraq Report 05/16 - Winds of Change publishes its latest news summary.
- Phil Carter at Intel Dump provides in depth analysis of a recent New York Times article about the insurgency in Iraq ("The Mystery of the Insurgency").
TFF Press Releases
Task Force Freedom distributed a number of press releases today - full text provided below.
Four Tracy streets to be named for fallen veterans
Tracy, CA is planning to honor four fallen servicemen by naming local streets after them. Two are soldiers from the 3rd Brigade, 2nd ID - SSG Steven Bridges, and PFC Jessie Martinez.
Brenda Huang, Tracy Press
Published May 10, 2005, in the Tracy Press.
A lot has changed since U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Steven Bridges was killed in a Stryker vehicle accident in Iraq. One grandfather passed away, the oldest stepdaughter had a third baby, and wife Debra has become an activist pushing a bill through Congress for more benefits for military families.
But one thing remains unchanged: When his parents travel from Tracy to Federal Way, Wash., twice a year to visit his family and his grave, it still hurts.
SGT Mike Buyas Update
Back in March we posted an article about SGT Mike Buyas, who was seriously injured in Mosul before Christmas. While he's still recovering at Walter Reed, his local community is holding a fundraiser to assist his family. Lynda, a former "Stryker Mom", sent us the following press release the group put together, which includes donation information if you would like to help.
172nd SBCT Photo
SPC Steven Jackson is seen participating in the 172nd's training at JRTC, Ft. Polk, LA in this DOD photo.
DOD photo by SPC Timothy Kingston, U.S. Army
Wounded Warrior Bill Passed
We wanted to let everyone know that the Wounded Warrior Bill, which we mentioned recently, was passed by Congress and signed into law by the President. The bill will allow immediate payments ($25,000-$100,000) to service members that have suffered life-altering injuries. It is also retroactive to October 7, 2001 - the start of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. We've learned from first-hand experience that there is a desperate need for this kind of support as service members, and their families, try to navigate the road to recovery.
Thank you to those who worked so hard to get the bill passed, especially the Wounded Warrior Project. Pay them a visit if you haven't done so already. Included below is the complete press release regarding the legislation.
Handshake Seals Stryker Deal with Air Force
This article about the recent assignment of Stryker vehicles to the 3rd ASOS, provides new details on what the 3rd ASOS will be doing, more rationale for why this is happening and new photos.
Link to Full Article
By Master Sgt. Andrew Gates
354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska – With a handshake and the roar of a mighty engine, an Eielson unit became the first in the Air Force to own the latest addition to the service’s inventory – the Stryker armored vehicle.
In a May 5 ceremony at Fort Polk, La., the 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron received five of the Army’s high-tech armored vehicles. The unit is assigned to the 354th Operations Group at Eielson, but its primary customer is the Army’s 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team at Fort Wainwright.
Iraq war casualty making progress
An update on SGT Brandon Huff, including details regarding a fund established on his behalf.
Link to Full Article
By SHAWBONG FOK/Democrat Staff Writer
Sgt. Brandon Huff remains in stable condition, his health improving since being admitted on April 26 to the intensive care unit of Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
Since May 3, Huff has been in the orthopedic ward, where he continues undergoing multiple therapies that have tended his infections and physical traumas sustained by a hidden explosive, said Huff's father, Don. [...]
'Milbloggers' are typing their place in history
Link to Full Article
By Mark Memmott, USA TODAY
Imagine some of the soldiers who survived the Battle of Gettysburg stopping the next day to write their dramatic tales — and people around the world instantly reading them. If that battle had been fought today, no imagination would be necessary.
Airmen get Stryker vehicles
Link to Article (Photos included)
By Capt. Michael Blankartz and 2nd Lt. Kate McIsaac
FORT POLK, La. (Army News Service, May 12, 2005) – An Air Force squadron gained operational control of five Army Strykers May 6 in a ceremony at the Army’s Joint Readiness Training Center during an exercise to ready the crews for Iraq.
Frontline Photos - May 11, 2005 edition
Today's edition of Frontline Photos contains several new photos of the 1-5 INF conducting operations in Mosul. Page forward through the gallery to see all of them.
Photo Essay: 4-11 FA at JRTC
The 4-11 FA, 172nd SBCT, is featured in this Defend America photo essay, taken at JRTC on May 8, 2005. Page forward to see all the photos.
U.S. Army photos by PFC Leslie Angulo
Operation Matador
Winds of Change has an excellent roundup of information regarding Operation Matador, the major offensive initiated by the US military in Iraq yesterday.
Artists Lend a Hand, Or a Realistic Foot, To Iraq Amputees
Michael Oreskovic is featured in the following story on the front page of The Wall Street Journal. Their content is usually for subscribers only, but the following link should work for the next 7 days. Leave a comment if you have a problem.
UPDATE: You can view photos Mike took of the artist at work on the same day the reporter was there.
Link to Full Article
By GREG JAFFE, THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
WASHINGTON -- Two years ago, Chuck O'Brien was in Hollywood making cadavers for "CSI: Miami." His masterpieces included a partially digested torso that spilled from a shark and a finger that oozed sweat.
Soldiers Try to Bridge Cultural, Military Divide
Provided below is a summary of an audio report by NPR. Follow the link and click the "Listen" icon.
Morning Edition, May 11, 2005 · The number of attacks in Iraq rises and falls, but that is just one way to try to measure progress in the war. Other factors are harder to quantify. One is the way Iraqis view the American troops who still patrol their cities. Philip Reeves spent a day with an American platoon in and around the northern city of Mosul.
Security measures continue to yield weapons and terror suspects
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 11, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained 17 suspected terrorists during operations in northern Iraq today and Tuesday night.
1-5 INF Photo
SPC Joshua Montero of Company B, 1-5 INF, is pictured in this recent Army Images photo.
Photo by Tech. Sgt. Mike Buytas, U.S. Air Force
Michael Yon Articles
Embedded author Michael Yon has two new entries from Mosul on his site:
- Fallen Soldier - Regarding SGT Anthony Davis.
- Rounding Up Bombers - Outlining recent 1-24 INF operations.
Thanks to Moose for the links.
USAF to Utilize Leesville Air Space for Training
This Air Force exercize at JRTC, scheduled for May 12-13, 2005, likely involves the 3rd ASOS which is now supporting the 172nd SBCT.
by Kelly Moore, Leesville Daily Leader
Leesville is accustomed to seeing military vehicles overhead as well as on the ground and Thursday, May 12 and Friday, May 13 will be no different.
Photos from JRTC/Ft. Polk
The Leesville Daily Leader has two photos of the 172nd SBCT and 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron (ASOS) on their May 10th Local News page. The 3rd ASOS is now supporting the 172nd.
MNF continue to impede terrorists resources
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 10, 2005) –Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained five suspected terrorists and seized a weapons cache during operations in northern Iraq today.
Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment received a tip leading to the seizure of a weapons cache in an area south of Mosul. The weapons cache consisted of 46 RPG rounds, 11 RPG launchers, five artillery rounds, six AK-47 magazines, two spools of wire, two containers of small arms ammunition, one bag of IED ignition timers, one bag of IED ignition switches and other bomb making material, 200 sticks of explosives, one bag of plastic explosives, one bag of explosives igniters, one periscope, one bag of mortar charges, one bag of shotgun shells, one can of anti-tank grenade fuses, two sets of night-vision goggles, 150 lbs of C4 plastic explosives, and one can of TNT explosives.
US refocuses strategy in Iraq
Link to Full Article
By Tom Regan | csmonitor.com
A recent rise in suicide attacks that has left at least 300 people dead in the last 10 days, including eight US troops over the weekend, has US commanders rethinking their strategies in Iraq. The Washington Post reports that higher priority will be given to fighting "foreign troops and Iraqi jihadists."
An Iraqi girl’s life ends but image lingers
Link to Full Article
MATT MISTEREK; The News Tribune
MOSUL, Iraq – Spc. Moises Medina regrets now that he even asked the question.
The young girl he was treating – the victim of a car bomber on a crowded street in west Mosul – made him think of his own daughter back in Spanaway. The 24-year-old Stryker brigade medic checked the Iraqi girl’s vital signs and tried to keep her alive on the way to the hospital.
1-5 INF Photos
Several new photos of the 1-5 INF have appeared in recent days on both Getty Images and Yahoo! News Photos.
A single new 1-5 INF photo can also be seen at Army Images.
Army Images photo by Tech. Sgt. Mike Buytas, U.S. Air Force
Recent Videos
Provided below are descriptions of, and links to, the latest videos from Mosul, courtesy of the DVIDS website. Included are the Stryker vehicle testimonials that people have been asking for, as well as an interview with author/photographer Michael Yon who took the unforgettable Little Girl photo.
Articles of Interest
The following are a variety of interesting articles regarding Iraq and the military in general.
- Iraq Report - Links to news and analysis from Winds of Change.
- Good news from Iraq, part 27 - From Arthur Chrenkoff.
- Military Spouses Scammed By Phony Casualty Assistance Officers - Blackfive explains this scam, which illustrates the need to protect your soldier's identity. DO NOT disclose any personal info without their consent.
- Military Spouse Career Center Launches - Resource center from Military.com.
- "I Punched Saddam in the Mouth" - Bad title, but very interesting article about the Special Forces interpreter, and Iraqi expatriate, who pulled Saddam from his hiding spot.
Lakewood softball team inspires dads, others on front lines
Link to Full Article
By TED MILLER, SEATTLE P-I
LAKEWOOD -- The little things -- the details -- matter in sports. And in father-daughter relationships. And in war.
Jazmin Mercado, Jennifer Pich, Alyson McWherter and Liesl Chappell understand that more than most adolescents. The four Lakes High School softball players learned from their fathers to keep their chins down when the ball is bouncing toward them; to not drop their front shoulder when batting; and to embrace the mental part of competition.
Terrorist attacks continue to target innocent Iraqis
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 8, 2005) – Four Iraqi citizens were killed in two attacks in northern Iraq today.
Three citizens were found dead outside their vehicle after they had encountered an improvised explosive device attack and then were pulled from the vehicle and shot dead in western Mosul. Another Iraqi citizen was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near an Iraqi Army patrol in eastern Mosul. This continues a pattern of terrorist attacks that have targeted and disregarded the lives and safety of innocent citizens.
Woodlander recovering from Iraq bomb blast
An update and contact information for SGT Huff.
Link to Full Article
By SHAWBONG FOK/Democrat Staff Writer
Woodlander Sgt. Brandon Huff, whose left leg was taken by a hidden explosive in Mosul, Iraq in April, remains in the intensive care unit at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
Citizens and ISF partner to improve security
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 7, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained 30 suspected terrorists, seized a large number of weapons and were able to defuse improvised explosive devices thanks to a tip provided by an Iraqi citizen during operations in northern Iraq today.
2-1 INF Photo
This photo of the 2-1 INF, from early April, just appeared on the Alaska e-post site.
2-8 FA Photo
A soldier from the 2-8 FA, 1-25 SBCT, is seen with two Iraqi children in this photo from Qayyarah, Iraq.
Photo by SPC Jory C. Randall, U.S. Army
Soldier takes positive view
Link to Full Article
By PAUL FATTIG, Mail Tribune
Not long after Sgt. Chad Woodward arrived last fall at the U.S. military compound at Mosul, Iraq, insurgents fired mortars at the base.
One round killed a major in Woodward’s unit, the Army’s 1st Stryker Brigade out of Fort Lewis, Wash.
Yesterday's Photo
Yesterday we posted a press release from Task Force Freedom that featured a photo taken by Michael Yon. A number of people have written wanting additional information about the incident. Mr. Yon provides all the details on his website in an entry titled Little Girl.
05/06 UPDATE: We wanted to bring this entry back to the top and let you know that Blackfive has additional information about this incident on his site. Included are an interview with the photographer, and a note from LTC Kurilla, the 1-24 INF Battalion Commander.
Military Spouse Day
The Friday before Mother's Day is traditionally recognized as Military Spouse Day. We'd like to take a moment to recognize the tremendous sacrifices of wives and husbands who support those in uniform. Please join us in saying "Thank You"!
2-14 CAV Photo
A medic from Troop A, 2-14 CAV is pictured in this recent U.S. Army photo.
Photo by SPC Jory C. Randall, U.S. Army
The 172nd gets set
Link to Full Article
Daily News-Miner
Seeing the small piles of gear awaiting loading at Eielson Air Force Base earlier this week is yet another reminder that the time is drawing near for the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team's deployment to Iraq. Fort Wainwright will be a shell of itself later this summer when the unit heads into Iraq after a brief rest period from its latest training mission, this time at a major training center in Louisiana.
ISF not allowing terrorists rest
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 5, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained seven suspected terrorists and seized two large weapons caches during operations in northern Iraq Wednesday.
Hawaii Stryker brigade getting ready to roll
Link to Full Article
By William Cole, Honolulu Advertiser
After four years, a 3,000-page environmental impact report and a federal lawsuit, the Army’s planned Stryker brigade for Hawaii appears to be a reality.
And not a minute too soon, at least in terms of the Army’s timetable for bringing approximately 300 armored vehicles to the state, a move that will fundamentally change the way the Army operates here.
Fort Lewis mourns two more
UPDATED: Two related articles added to the end of the entry.
Link to Full Article
MICHAEL GILBERT; The News Tribune
Fort Lewis said farewell Tuesday to two more of its soldiers who were killed in Iraq, an inspiring young officer and a quiet tanker who was on his second tour of the country.
Mourners said Lt. William Edens, 29, was a platoon leader admired by his men. He leaves a wife, Christy, who will graduate from medical school later this month.
Sgt. Eric Morris, 31, was two months into his second trip to Iraq, after having spent 15 months there in 2003-04. His wife, Jolene, and his 6-year-old twin stepdaughters, Chyann and Chyna, held each other close in the front row at the Main Post Chapel throughout Tuesday’s memorial ceremony.
Woodbridge man injured in Iraq
SPC Nick Beintema was wounded in the attack that killed four soldiers in Tal Afar.
Link to Full Article
By Ross Farrow, News-Sentinel
Shortly before leaving for his second tour in Iraq, Army Specialist Nick Beintema told his parents, "I have a real bad feeling this time."
His worst fears, and those of his parents, were prophetic.
Beintema, 22, was almost killed and faces up to four months in the hospital after being wounded last Tuesday in a reconnaissance mission in northern Iraq, less than a month before he was due to be discharged.
Additional 172nd Articles
Here are two more articles about the 172nd as they head to the JRTC.
- Stryker brigade off to train, deployment - Associated Press
- One step closer to Iraq - Daily News-Miner
Mosul Photos
A number of new photos have appeared at both Yahoo! News Photos and Getty Images since the last time we posted these links. Many of the photos include members of the 1-5 INF.
Frontline Photos - May 3, 2005 edition
The 1-5 INF is pictured in the first two images in today's edition of Frontline Photos.
The Road to Mosul
The following is a very lengthy article profiling the 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery Regiment.
Link to Full Article
by David Axe
Qayyarah, Iraq—One night this spring, a Stryker armored vehicle carrying an American unit on patrol sits in the desert on the outskirts of Mosul, near the town of Qayyarah. It's cold. It's windy. Everybody is tired.
A soldier in the back of the Stryker—a boat-shaped vehicle with a missile launcher—is fast asleep. The driver, Captain Kyle Pennington, 26, hasn't made a peep in half an hour. Second Lieutenant Tom Burns is leading this four-vehicle patrol, part of the 25th Infantry Division out of Fort Lewis, Washington. (They're part of the 2-8—the Second Battalion, Eighth Field Artillery Regiment.) The Americans' Iraqi comrades huddle in the back of nearby Toyota pickups.
Iraqi citizens give tips about explosives
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 3, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) and Iraqi Army soldiers seized two explosives caches and an improvised explosive device during operations in northern Iraq today.
Michael Yon - Online Magazine
Author Michael Yon is currently embedded with the 1-24 INF ("Deuce Four") in Mosul, and is filing stories on his website. Be sure to stop by, read his entries, and subscribe to his mailing list. His most recent entry, The Battle For Mosul, is a must-read.
Thanks to Deuce Four officers for making us aware of his reporting.
172nd Brigade Articles
The following are three recent articles regarding the 172nd SBCT, currently training in preparation for a summer deployment to Iraq.
- Stryker brigade off to last training before deployment - News-Miner
- Exercises increase traffic on post - The Daily Leader
- Air Force to get first Stryker - Air Force Times
Fort Lewis to salute two of its own
Link to Full Article
By MIKE BARBER, SEATTLE P-I
Eric Wayne Morris was born in Enumclaw in the shadow of Mount Rainier 31 years ago, then moved away with his mom and sisters, eventually living for about 10 years in Troy, N.Y., where he joined the Army at 18.
William Anthony Edens was born in St. Louis 29 years ago and later attended the "Tiger Battalion" ROTC program at the University of Missouri, from which he was commissioned an Army officer in 2003.
Bomb kills four Stryker soldiers
Michael Gilbert provides a good summary of recent events in Mosul & Tal Afar.
Link to Full Article
MICHAEL GILBERT; The News Tribune
Two of the four soldiers killed in a roadside bomb blast Thursday in northwest Iraq were from Fort Lewis, officials said Monday.
The attack in Tal Afar was the second devastating hit on a Stryker in five days. On April 23, a suicide bomber drove a car full of explosives up to one of the 20-ton Army vehicles in Mosul, killing one soldier and seriously injuring six others.
Terrorist attack kills two Iraqi children, injures 15
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 3, 2005) – After further investigation it was determined that two Iraqi children were killed and another 15 Iraqi citizens were injured when a combined suicide car bomb and improvised explosive device attack detonated in a western Mosul neighborhood Monday. Initial reports had indicated only one child was killed in the attack.
This attack comes one day after another car bomb loaded into a stolen hospital ambulance was driven into a tent where a funeral service was being held, killing as many as 25 Iraqis in Tal Afar Sunday evening, and just two days after a child was killed in an improvised explosive device attack. This is the fifth terrorist attack in three days against innocent Iraqi citizens. The attacks have killed 31 and injured at least 53.
WARNING: Displayed below is one of the photos that was included with this press release. While difficult to look at, I thought it was one of the most moving photos I've seen.
CORRECTION: We originally attributed the photo to the US Army. The photo was in fact taken by Michael Yon.
UPDATE 05/07/05: We may get permission to post this photo in the near future, but for the time being we have removed it. To see the picture and read about the story behind it, please visit Michael Yon's website.
UPDATE 05/09/05: We received permission from the photographer's representative to post the photo.
ISF lead in successful operations
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (May 3, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained 15 suspected terrorists and seized a number of weapons during operations in northern Iraq Monday.
Troops from the 3rd Brigade Iraqi Commandoes and 106th Battalion, 21st Brigade Iraqi Army alongside Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment detained 12 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in central Mosul. The units also seized 13 AK-47s in the operation. Suspects are in custody with no ISF or MNF injuries reported. Weapons were confiscated for future destruction.
Sgt. Duke on leave from combat in Iraq
Link to Full Article
By PHILIP WRIGHT, Staff Reporter
Time may pass quickly for a soldier fighting in Iraq, but for family back home, time grinds. That's how it's been the past seven months for Jim and Nancy Duke, of Clarkdale. Their son Kolter is assigned to a combat unit in Mosul, Iraq.
2-14 CAV Photos
Here are two recent photos (one, two) of the 2-14 CAV in Mosul that were posted on Army Images.
U.S. Army Photos by SPC Jory C. Randall
1LT William A. Edens
The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died April 28 in Tal Afar, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their Stryker military vehicle.
1st Lt. William A. Edens, 29, of Columbia, MO was among those killed. Edens was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
Please join us in extending our deepest sympathies to his loved ones. We will add any subsequent articles we find to this entry.
UPDATE: A memorial service has been scheduled for Tuesday, May 3 at 1:30 p.m. in Main Post Chapel, Ft. Lewis.
SGT Eric W. Morris
The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died April 28 in Tal Afar, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their Stryker military vehicle.
One of the soldiers killed was SGT Eric W. Morris, 31, of Sparks, Nev. Morris was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fellow soldiers. We will add any subsequent articles we find to this entry.
UPDATE: A memorial service has been scheduled for Tuesday, May 3 at 1:30 p.m. in Main Post Chapel, Ft. Lewis.
SPC Ricky W. Rockholt Jr.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died April 28 in Tal Afar, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their Stryker military vehicle.
Among those killed was SPC Ricky W. Rockholt Jr., 28, of Winston, Ore. Rockholt was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armor Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.
We offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. We will add any subsequent articles we find to this entry.
PFC Robert W. Murray Jr.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died April 28 in Tal Afar, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their Stryker military vehicle.
Included was PFC Robert W. Murray Jr., 21, of Westfield, Ind. Murray was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armor Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.
We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones he leaves behind. We will add any subsequent articles we find to this entry.
Iraq Report
Winds of Change has published its latest Iraq Report, with links to news and analysis of recent events.
