Tal Afar citizens collect money from Iraqi government
(TFF Press Release)
By Sgt. 1st Class Donald Sparks
3d U.S. CAVALRY PAO
TAL AFAR, Iraq — City officials in Tal Afar began handing out more $4.5 billion Iraqi Dinar to the citizens of the city early Saturday morning.
The Iraqi Transitional Government allocated the money to provide every family (head of the household) 157,000 Dinar ($100) within Tal Afar, including displaced families, as compensation to mitigate past terrorist activity in the city.
Iraq Report
Winds of Change has published its weekly Iraq Report, with links to news and analysis of recent events.
Shallow Grave unearthed, terrorists using women and children
(TFF Press Release)
WESTERN NINEWA, IRAQ – Acting on information from a citizen in Tall Afar, the Iraqi Police uncovered the bodies of 14 people buried in a shallow grave just east of the city Friday. Twelve of the corpses were bound and appear to have been shot in the head execution style while two others were decapitated.
DVIDS - Image Galleries and Videos
The DVIDS has several new Image Galleries of 4-23 Stryker soldiers. Look for the Oct. 28, 2005 galleries. There is a companion story you can register to read titled: "Stryker Soldiers Beat the Street, Gather Information to Help Iraq". The Video Page has several recent video interviews of 172nd SBCT soldiers.We recommend browing this site for additional content.
Security forces continue to put down terrorist activities
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 29, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed two terrorists, wounded another, detained 78 suspected terrorists, and seized a number of weapons during operations in Iraq Oct. 24-28
Iraqi Border Patrol officers detained four individuals suspected of terrorist activity at a checkpoint near the Syrian border Oct. 28. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 3rd Battalion, detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity in Tal Afar Oct. 24.
Vet who photographed Iraq loses some sight
Link to Full Article
ANTONIO CASTANEDA, Associated Press
OLYMPIA, Wash. - Army Sgt. Walt Gaya spent his time in Iraq peering - through the scope of his sniper rifle and through the lens of his camera, snapping black-and-white pictures of his unit and of life in the turbulent city of Mosul.
Becoming a professional photographer was his dream. Losing his sight was his nightmare, which he sometimes mentioned in long-distance phone calls to his wife, Jessica, in Washington.
Stryker Soldiers Patrol Streets of Mosul
Link to Article (Full text provided below)
By U.S. Army Spc. Jeremy D. Crisp
MOSUL, Iraq, Oct. 28, 2005 — Today the streets of Mosul are crowded with Iraqi citizens going through their daily routines. These same streets play host to the constant footfalls of soldiers and the rumbling of their Stryker light armored vehicles carrying them to the battlefield.
The citizens smile as the soldiers roll through and the greeting of the day from the infantrymen is "As-salam alaikum," in Arabic meaning "peace be with you."
Over 1,200 enter the ranks of Iraqi Police
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 28, 2005) – In the first of its kind, 244 Iraqi Police (IP) recruits from the Tigris River Valley graduated from the Mosul Public Safety Academy Oct. 27. On Oct 26, an additional 453 IP’s returned to Mosul after graduating from the Jordan International Police Training Center (JIPTC) and 199 IP recruits from Tal Afar and 305 new IP officers from Mosul departed for JIPTC the next day. These newly trained Iraqi Police were eager to begin fighting insurgency within Mosul.
1/25 SBCT Homecoming Ceremony
We'll list all articles we find regarding yesterday's Homecoming Ceremony for the 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (SBCT) at Ft. Lewis.
UPDATE: We fixed the link to the Seattle Times story.
Related Articles:
Stryker Brigade Combat Team Welcomed Home - KOMO News
Strykers take time to rest, reflect - The News Tribune
Flags fly as soldiers return home - The Seattle Times
Photo 1, Photo 2 - Frontline Photos
2-1 INF Photo and Video
U.S. Army Alaska provides us with this photo of SSG Paul Volino of the 2-1 INF. Look for the link at the top of the page for video of the 2-1 in action.
172nd Helps Secure Historic Referendum
Link to Full Article with photos
by 1st Lt. Anthony Fennell
4-23 Infantry
OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM — The area that is now Iraq, known in the past as Mesopotamia, has been the birthplace of the Code of Laws, the alphabet, agriculture and mathematics.
The Hunt For Weapons Is Hard Work, But It's Vital
Link to Full Article with photos
by John Pennell
Fort Richardson PAO
OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM — It’s hard to imagine a place where you can just walk around and stumble into tons of buried explosives unless you are on patrol in Iraq with the Soldiers of the 4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment.
Saturday Afternoon Shootout - Courage Under Fire Saves Lives, Disrupts Enemy in Northern Iraq
Link to Full Article with photos
by Capt. Robert Duffy Jr.
4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry
MOSUL, Iraq — Determined insurgents tested the proficiency and battle mettle of the newly arrived Soldiers from the 4th Battalion, 23d Infantry Reconnaissance Platoon on Sept. 17 in the Al Sinaa neighborhood of eastern Mosul.
Mosul Photos
A number of new photos of the 1-17 INF can be viewed at both Getty Images and Yahoo! News Photos.
Continuing Analysis
Bill Roggio continues to provide in depth analyses of recent coalition operations in Iraq. Northern Exposure outlines Task Force Freedom's advances against al Quaeda in Mosul.
Frontlne Photos - Oct. 24 and 25, 2005 editions
Images of 1-17 INF soldiers conducting operations in Mosul, can be seen in both the Oct. 24, 2005 edition and Oct. 25, 2005 edition of Frontline Photos. Page forward through both galleries to view a total of 8 photos.
Security forces scoop large weapons caches and suspected terrorists in Tal Afar
(TFF Press Release)
TAL AFAR, IRAQ (October 26, 2005) –Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom seized large weapons caches and detained 16 suspected terrorists during operations in Tal Afar Oct. 24-25.
She delivers treats, toiletries to wounded soldiers
Link to Full Article
DAVID WICKERT; The News Tribune
Monika Hammon was watching CNN one day when she was struck by a report about wounded soldiers coming home from overseas.
So Hammon decided to do something to show her appreciation for their sacrifice. Over the last several months, she’s donated 50 backpacks full of goodies to soldiers recuperating at Madigan Army Medical Center. And she’s planning to give a lot more.
Stryker soldiers find more weapons caches
Link to Full Article
By AMANDA BOHMAN, News-Miner
Fort Wainwright soldiers in Iraq spent the weekend arresting at least 35 suspected terrorists and uncovering more weapons storehouses, according to U.S. Army news releases.
Activities began Friday and involve three units of the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team posted in western and northern Iraq. No soldiers were reported injured or killed.
Units named were the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment; 4th Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment; and the 4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment. The soldiers are among the 3,800 Fort Wainwright service members who arrived in Iraq in mid-September.
Defend America Photo Essay - Mosul, Iraq
Members of the 2-1 INF can be seen in this Defend America Photo Essay.
U.S. Air Force Photos by Staff Sgt. James L. Harper Jr.
Kindergarten school receives facelift
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 25, 2005) – Kindergarten children in Tal Usquf, a town north of Mosul, have a newly renovated school to learn and play in thanks to Soldiers of 401st Civil Affairs and 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment.
Tal Usquf Kindergarten was furnished with all new electrical wiring, water coolers, water closets, furniture for the staff, new toys for the children, and painting of the entire school. The project was completed on Oct. 22. A contractor is also in the process of completing a play area in the rear of the school and plans to make any other needed repairs which could pose potential hazards to children.
Isle soldier shot in Iraq wants to return
Link to Full Article
By Nelson Daranciang, Honolulu Star-Bulletin
Army Pfc. Douglas Dalton, wounded in his leg and stomach in an ambush in Iraq in mid-September, is ready to go back.
"Nobody wants to go to war, but my unit is still there, so I gotta see them again," Dalton, who returned home Oct. 7, said. "They need my help."
New Cavalry to Assist Transformation of Stryker Brigade
Link to Article
By U.S. Army Spc. Amanda Flemett
SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii, Oct. 24, 2005 – Commanders donned their Stetson hats as their wives were presented yellow lei, the color of the cavalry, for the historic activation ceremony of the 5th Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, on Sills Field here, Oct. 14.
With the upcoming Stryker Brigade Combat Team, the need for cavalry assets was evident and recognized with the activation of the cavalry.
Stryker Brigade unearths another large weapons cache near Rawah
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 24, 2005) – Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment (172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team) seized a large weapons cache during a search operations in the Rawah area, near the Euphrates River, Oct. 23. The cache included over 1,000 anti-tank mines, over 250 rocket propellant, and several timed mines. Soldiers from the SBCT continue a robust operations tempo in defense of security for Iraqi citizens. The weapons were destroyed on the scene.
Iraqi Security forces supported by Multi-National forces continue successful operations aimed at defeating terrorists in an effort to provide safety and security to the citizens of the region.
Anyone with information on anti-Iraqi insurgent activities should call the Joint Coordination Center’s telephone numbers at 513462 or 07701623300.
Security Forces seize large caches, detain 72
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 24, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed a terrorist, wounded one, detained 72 suspected terrorists, and seized a number of weapons during operations in northern Iraq Oct. 20-24.
Iraqi Border Police detained seven individuals suspected of terrorist activity at the Syrian border west of Tal Afar Oct. 23. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Brigade, 4th Battalion, 2nd Division along with Multi-National Forces detained seven individuals suspected of engaging troops with small arms fire in western Mosul Oct. 21. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Brigade, 3rd Battalion along with Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 11th Field Artillery seized a cache of mortar rounds in Qayyarah Oct. 22. Suspects are in custody with no ISF or MNF injuries reported.
We make a difference in Iraq
Link to Full Editorial
By Maj. Bill Cowling
Special to The Star
MOSUL, Iraq — I am told by friends and family that they are often informed of the disappointments that we experience in Iraq. While these disappointments are real, I wanted to share with my fellow Missourians the many successes the Iraqi government and the coalition forces are experiencing in Mosul.
Thanks to the efforts of many top military and civilian professionals, Mosul’s provincial government is growing stronger each day. The reconstruction of Iraq is extremely hard work. However, because of the dedication of Iraqi officials with their coalition counterparts, and the resolve of our support network at home, we will see this government fully stand up. [...]
Purple Fingers
Link to Full Article
By Michael Yon
I was in Baquba during the January elections. I’d hitched a ride with the US Army to a polling site. There were bombs exploding, mortars falling, and hot machine guns. The fact that the voting was going great despite the violence was something few people expected. When the soldiers dropped me off along with a CNN crew, they couldn’t believe we were willing to go alone. Neither could I. [...]
Present in spirit, if not in body
Link to Full Article
By Hal Bernton, Seattle Times
TACOMA — At the ball to welcome them back from Iraq, a circle of soldiers gathered around a short, slender woman in a long black dress bedecked with silver sparkles.
They reached out to touch her hand. They clasped her in bear hugs. They shared tears. And they all asked Sema Olson a question:
How is Bobby?
172nd SBCT Photos
U.S. Army Alaska's e-post site has several new photos of 172nd soldiers:
Patrolling the Polls, a 4-14 CAV photo.
Proud to Continue Service, a 1-17 INF photo.
Two additional 4-14 CAV photos can be seen in the article titled 172nd Finds Major Weapons Cache, a story that's been previously posted.
Significant Strides Made in the Shadow of Operation Restoring Rights
(TFF Press Release)
By CW3 J.M. Hurtado 3d ACR
WESTERN NINEWA, IRAQ - The Third Armored Cavalry Regiment, partnered with the 3d Iraqi Army Division, captured five terrorists and nine smugglers in the past twenty-four hours. Two of these men are senior-level leaders responsible for planning and funding terrorism in the northern area of Iraq.
In the past 5 days, the Third Armored Cavalry Regiment and Third Iraqi Army Division soldiers have secured and destroyed more than ten-thousand pounds of explosives that terrorists intended for use against them and the Iraqi People.
Stryker Brigade uncovers huge weapons caches near Euphrates River
TFF Press Release
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 22, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from 172nd Infantry Brigade (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) uncovered 10 weapons caches and detained 16 suspected terrorists during two operations in northern Iraq Oct. 17-18.
Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment detained 16 suspected terrorists and seized a weapons cache during a raid near Rawah along the Euphrates River Oct. 17. The cache included mortar aiming stakes, mortar launching equipment, mortar cheese charges, and explosive paraphernalia.
SPC Daniel D. Bartels
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
SPC Daniel D. Bartels, 22, of Huron, SD, died in Mosul, Iraq, on Oct. 19, of a non-combat related cause identified there on Oct. 18. Bartels was assigned to the 4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Fort Wainwright, Alaska.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
We will add any subsequent articles we find to this entry. It will remain at the top of the page today. Please scroll down for more news.
172nd SBCT Photos
A number of new photos can be seen at the following links. Our thanks to Maj. Hale for alerting us to some of these.
Getty Images - Mosul photos, most of the 1-17 INF, including some from the memorial ceremony for Spc. Frantz.
Yahoo! News Photos - Mosul Photos, also 1-17 INF.
2-1 INF Photos (one, two, three)
Frontline Photos - 1-17 INF photo.
MNF-Iraq Photos - scroll down to Oct. 18 for a 172nd SBCT photo.
Army Images 172nd SBCT photo
Michael Yon interview Sunday
Michael Yon, who is now in Baghdad, will again appear on the Pundit Review Radio program this Sunday evening. Details from their website:
When: Sunday, October 23, 9pm EST
Where: Streaming Live at Boston’s Talk Station, WRKO
Contact: Call toll free at 877-469-4322
Staying behind isn't easy
Link to Full Article
By MICHELLE CUTHRELL, News-Miner
After four years of long-distance dating and marriage, I was sure we'd be ready.
My husband and I had become the queen and king of goodbyes. We'd efficiently executed dramatic, sappy, teary-eyed farewells in airports from Alaska to Singapore, and we had almost mastered the cutting-off-and-moving-on part of long-distance relationships. After all, when you attend colleges in different states and one of you is in the military, departures just become part of the routine.
Fort Richardson soldier fights war of ideas from Iraq
Link to Full Article (Opinion)
By Beth Bragg, Anchorage Daily News
His wife, his family and his friends surely would prefer that Brian Patton was safe at home right now.
But lucky me. Patton is a Fort Richardson soldier stationed in Iraq, so an interview with him this week was conducted via e-mail. And Patton -- 30-year-old sergeant, husband and one-time pre-law student -- is nothing if not a writer. A talented, compelling writer.
SPC Lucas A. Frantz
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
SPC Lucas A. Frantz, 22, of Tonganoxie, KS, died in Mosul, Iraq, on Oct. 18, when he was hit by enemy fire while performing a combat mission. SPC Frantz was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Sryker Brigade Combat Team, Fort Wainwright, Alaska.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and comrades he leaves behind.
We will add any future articles to this entry. This article will remain at the top of the page today. Please scroll down for more news.
2-1 INF Photos
Here are three new photos of the 2-1 INF conducting operations in Mosul on October 10, 2005 (one, two, three).
U.S. Army Photos by SPC Jeffery Sandstrum
Stryker Brigade finds huge weapons caches
Link to Full Article
By MARGARET FRIEDENAUER. News-Miner
Huge. Significant. Crippling to anti-coalition forces. Like an early Christmas.
Soldiers with the 4th Squadron, 14 Cavalry of the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team from Fort Wainwright are running out of words to describe the importance of the number of weapons caches they are finding in recent days throughout their area of operation in Iraq.
Security efforts continue to target weapons caches and terrorists
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 20, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 31 suspected terrorists, killed one terrorist, and seized a number of weapons during operations in northern Iraq Oct. 16-19.
Iraqi Police detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapons cache during separate operations in Mosul Oct. 19. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Division alongside Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in eastern Mosul Oct. 19.
Iraqi Army BCT class graduates
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 19, 2005) – The Iraqi Army graduated 53 of its newest trainees from the Iraqi Army Basic Combat Team training (IA BCT) in Qayyarah Oct. 17.
The trainees participated in a four-week course preparing them to assume the counter-insurgency fight. Soldiers were provided instruction on 28 different subject areas, including physical training, drill and ceremony, guard duty, first aid, and basic rifle and marksmanship.
Iraq War Vets Scrutinized
Link to Full Article
USA Today
Pentagon efforts to screen troops for medical and psychological problems before and after they go to war -- and in the months after they return home -- could make the Iraq war veteran the most scrutinized fighter in American history.
"They are collecting data before and after, and then doing follow-up. That's amazing," says Joseph Boscarino, a Vietnam War veteran and scientist at the New York Academy of Medicine who does research on post-traumatic stress disorder. "That was never done before. It was always ad hoc."
DVIDS Image Galleries
Three recent image galleries on the DVIDS site contain photos of 172nd SBCT soldiers in Mosul.
Gallery 1480 - Polling Site Security
Gallery 1488 - Congressional Delegation Meets 172nd
Gallery 1490 - SFC Strickland Checks Progress
U.S. Soldier Dies in Mosul ....
Link to Full Article
News Article, American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 18, 2005 – A Task Force Freedom soldier was killed by small-arms fire in Mosul, Iraq, early today, military officials reported.
No further information was available, and the soldier's name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. [...]
We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
My War - The Book
Many long-time visitors to this site might remember the blog maintained by Colby Buzzell, a former soldier deployed with the 3/2 SBCT, called My War. He got into a bit of trouble for his accounts of life in Mosul, which were oftentimes humorous, and sometimes terrifying. Colby has published a book, also titled My War
Strykers in Combat
Joe Katzman at Defense Industry Daily (DID) has published a lengthy collection of recent reviews of the Stryker vehicle, and adds his own analysis as well. SBCT commanders are quoted extensively. We've linked to many of these sources in the past, but DID does an excellent job of putting this information in proper context. Excerpt:
So the Stryker is not a substitute, as some of its original proponents had hoped. Instead, Col. Brown's comparisons to the heavier M2A3 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle show the Stryker as a complementary vehicle with different strengths. For sustained operations in cities or favourable terrain, a quieter vehicle that can survive basic IED and RPG attacks, travels quickly, holds up well through high mileage, lacks pavement-damaging steel tracks, and is equipped with advanced C4ISR communications, "Blue Force Tracker" software and displays, et. al. appears to have definite advantages.
Related Article (via DID): Stryker Units Win Over Skeptics - National Defense Magazine (Cover story)
1-17 INF Photos
Several new photos of the 1-17 INF can be seen at Getty Images, and another at Frontline Photos.
S.M. soldier earns Silver Star
Link to Full Article
Lompoc Record
Sgt. 1st Class Gary Villalobos earned the Army's third highest award for valor in Iraq during a ceremony that spotlighted the Santa Marian's extreme efforts to prevent insurgents from capturing a fallen soldier's body.
Villalobos, assigned to Fox Troop, Second Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, was awarded the Silver Star Medal Thursday for his gallantry in combat while outnumbered by insurgents June 7 in Tal Afar, Iraq.
Mosul is policing its own
Link To Article
By Polli Keller
MOSUL,Iraq (Army News Service, Oct 17, 2005)–The Mosul city government and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or USACE, are working together to renovate eight Mosul police stations.
This $1.9 million dollar project began June 2005; completion is scheduled for this year’s end. Five of the eight scheduled renovations already are complete.
Security ramped up in support of elections
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 16, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 50 suspected terrorists and seized a number of weapons during operation in northern Iraq Oct. 13-15.
Dispatches From Iraq
Even though his friend Matt has returned safely from Iraq, Dave has posted a Dispatch he's held in reserve. If you're interested he has links to previous Dispatches as well.
Iraq Report
Winds of Change has published its weekly Iraq Report, with links to news and analysis of recent events.
Soldiers' Web postings show life in war zone
Link to Full Article
By TATABOLINE BRANT, Anchorage Daily News
Dozens of Alaska soldiers serving in Iraq have posted hasty messages on a popular soldier-support Web site, asking well-wishers for everything from golf balls to flip flops in a series of posts that reveal as much about their daily lives in the desert as it does about their needs.
Iraq Referendum Photos
The DOD has created a special light box of Iraq Referendum Photos which is being updated throughout the weekend.
Voting in northern Iraq gets robust start
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 15, 2005) – Polling centers opened early throughout Iraq today allowing citizens to stand up for democracy.
Voters went to the polls by the thousands to cast their ballots and participate in this historic national referendum in the city of Tal Afar, which during the January elections had the second-lowest voter turnout in the country. Iraqi Army and Police were the first people to vote in Tal Afar this morning.
Alaska brigade finds weapons cache
Link to Full Article
By TATABOLINE BRANT
It's not unusual for the soldiers of the Alaska-based 172nd Stryker Brigade to seize weapons caches while patrolling the streets and villages of Iraq. But the stockpile they unearthed outside a chicken coop Tuesday set a record.
It took three days to blow up.
"Without a doubt, this was a significant find and certainly crippling to the (anti-Iraqi forces) operating in my sector," Lt. Col. Mark Freitag wrote by e-mail this week from Rawah, Iraq, where his cavalry unit, from Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks, is stationed.
Stryker brigade commander Col. Michael Shields said the cache is the largest one the 172nd has uncovered since the 3,800-person brigade arrived in Iraq in early September. ...
Fairbanks churches collect soccer balls for shipment to Iraq
SOCCER STYLE: If you are a kid in Iraq you grow up playing soccer, even if you have to use a rock or a piece of trash as a ball.
Some soldiers from Fort Wainwright are trying to improve the situation.
Soccer balls are being collected today and Sunday at two local churches and are to be shipped to Iraq next week by the Army.
The 2nd Battalion 1st Infantry Regiment of the Stryker Brigade has collection boxes at the Door of Hope Church and the Friends Community Church....
Little Rhma tickled pink after successful heart surgery
Link to Full Article
By Sandra Jontz, Stars and Stripes
Little Rhma has a new color about her.
Pink.
Because of a congenital heart defect, the tiny 5-year-old Iraqi girl hasn't had that healthy glow that comes with well-oxygenated blood circulating through the body.
But on Monday, Rhma underwent heart surgery in Albuquerque that saved her life and put her in the pink.
Injured 2-1 Soldier in High Spirits Despite Pain
Link to Full Article with photo
Story and photo by Tracey Murray
Fort Wainwright PAO
FORT WAINWRIGHT — Pfc. Douglas Dalton, a squad automatic weapon gunner for 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment, was on a routine patrol mid-September in Mosul, Iraq, when he was shot.
Dalton says that it is a little hazy to look back on, but about two miles into a dismounted patrol, they were ambushed with machine guns and small arms fire.
Arctic Wolves Seize Weapons, Capture 27 Suspected Terrorists
Although the information in this U.S. Army Alaska story has been previously reported along with most of the photos, it is worth viewing for the close-up photos of several soldiers and the high resolution of the remainder.
Link to Full Article with 9 photos
Stryker brigade ready for Iraq again
Link to Full Article
By Michael Gilbert, News Tribune
Soldiers in the Army’s first Stryker brigade are training up for a return to Iraq next year.
By the time they head out in June, they’ll have been home about 20 months – just long enough to rest, handle a few odd jobs at Fort Lewis and get ready for another year in combat.
“We’re back on the warpath,” said the brigade commander, Col. Stephen Townsend.
172nd SBCT Photos
Here are three new photos (one, two, three) of 172nd SBCT soldiers operating in Mosul on October 10, 2005. Their batallion is not identified.
DOD Photos by Staff Sgt. James L. Harper, U.S. Air Force
Getting Out the Vote
Link to Full Article
By Michael Hastings, Newsweek
Oct. 13, 2005 - Lt. Col. John Norris stands in front of a crowd of Iraqi police chiefs, Iraqi army generals and high-ranking American officers, all gathered under a massive tan tent on Forward Operating Base Courage in Mosul, Iraq. The tent is usually reserved for basketball games only—it covers a full-sized court with two hoops. But this particular Sunday, it's the briefing room to rehearse the city-wide plan for the Oct. 15 referendum on the Iraqi constitution.
Michael Yon Dispatch
Michael Yon is no longer in Mosul, but he is back in Iraq to cover the upcoming elections. He's posted a new dispatch, The Embed, on his site.
Security forces capture more suspected terrorists
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 13, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 58 suspected terrorists and seized munitions during operations in northern Iraq Oct.10-13.
Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained six individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized multiple weapons during separate operations in eastern Mosul Oct. 10 and Oct.12. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment detained 12 individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized munitions during several operations in Mosul Oct. 11.
IIF and MNF Soldiers seize major weapons cache
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 12, 2005) – Iraqi Intervention Forces along with Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom seized a large weapons cache in Rawah Tuesday.
Military Blog Collection
Matt at Blackfive will be editing, and contributing to, a collection of writing from military blogs (milblogs) that will be published by Simon & Schuster in late 2006. He's requesting your help:
As editor, I'm looking at a wide range of experiences - Saying Goodbye (from deciding to serve in the military to leaving loved ones behind), Combat, the Weight of Command, the Fallen, Homefront (spouse and parent blogs), Humor, Time Off, and Coming Home.
Follow the link and share your suggestions if you have any.
Euphrates Campaign
The Fourth Rail has published another excellent analysis of recent coalition operations along the Euphrates river in Iraq, including Operation Restoring Rights in Tal Afar. Excerpt:
The following presentation details the current operations being conducted along the Euphrates River which began on October 1, and are still ongoing. The purposes of the operations are threefold: drive al Qaeda, the most dangerous and violent element of the insurgency from the region; establish the security conditions to allow elections on the constitution [October 15] and the parliament [December 15]; and establish a permanent presence of Iraqi Army and police forces.
4-14 CAV Photo
Here is a new photo of the 4-14 CAV operating near the Syria border by the Euphrates River.
DOD Photo by Tech. Sgt. Andy Dunaway, U.S. Air Force
Blasts target Tal Afar marketplace
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Insurgents determined to wreck Iraq’s upcoming constitutional referendum killed more than 40 people and wounded dozens in several attacks Tuesday, including a suicide car bomb that ripped apart a crowded market in a town near the Syrian border.
U.S. and Iraqi officials have repeatedly warned that the insurgents would step up their attacks to undermine Saturday’s vote, a crucial step in Iraq’s democratic transition.
Injured Stryker Brigade soldier recovering in D.C.
Link to Full Article
By MARGARET FRIEDENAUER, News-Miner
A Fort Wainwright Army Post soldier from the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team is recovering at a Washington, D.C., hospital after being injured in Iraq.
Spc. Eric Edmundson with the Charlie Troop 4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry was injured Oct. 3 in northern Iraq when the Stryker vehicle he was driving hit an explosive device, according to family friend Heather Bryant.
ISF and MNF continue sweep of terrorists and weapons
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 10, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National forces from Task Force Freedom, killed four terrorists, detained 63 suspected terrorists, seized weapons caches, and thanks to a citizen’s tip, defused an improvised explosive device during operations in northern Iraq Oct. 6-10.
An Iraqi citizen’s tip led Soldiers from 113th Engineer Battalion to the site of an IED in Mosul Oct. 8. The 113th was able to successfully defuse the IED with no injuries to civilians or MNF Soldiers reported.
Iraq Report
Winds of Change has published its weekly Iraq Report, with links to news and analysis of recent events there.
Greenwich soldier earns Bronze Star
Link to Full Article
By Hoa Nguyen
On an April Sunday in Mosul, Iraq, a vehicle carrying a suicide bomber came racing toward Lt. Nate Raymond's platoon, exploding and injuring several soldiers inside an armored vehicle.
Raymond didn't hesitate.
"I organized a perimeter around the vehicle," said the 24-year-old Greenwich native.
The other Strykers surrounded the hit one, providing cover so the injured soldiers could be evacuated. His actions during that attack as well as other combat situations earned him a Bronze Star Medal, which will be awarded at a battalion ceremony later this month at his base in Fort Lewis, Wash.
DVIDS Videos
DVIDS (Digital Video & Imagery Distribution System) has posted a number of recent videos of Stryker troops operating in Mosul. I would also recommend browsing the site for other content. Some items require resgistration, but most of it is available to everyone.
- Video: Inside Stryker Team - Staff Sgt. Randolph
- Video: Inside Stryker Team - Spc. Jordan
- Video: Inside Stryker Team - Sgt. Tatum
- Video: Inside Stryker Team - Spc. LeMaster
- Video: Inside Stryker Team - Sgt. Reynoso
All party, no pity
Sgt. Brent Bretz, who was seriously injured in Mosul last year, makes the trip to Ft. Lewis to welcome his company home.
Link to Full Article
The Arizona Republic
PUYALLUP, Wash. - The boys of Charlie Company are finally home, and they want steak.
In a tiny apartment near Fort Lewis, Wash., they knock back bottles of Rolling Rock and Budweiser, fire up the patio grill and try to outdo each other with pickled one-liners.
Military details notification process in case of injury, death
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By MARGARET FRIEDENAUER, News-Miner
With 4,200 Alaska-based Army troops serving in war zones, military officials acknowledge the likelihood of casualties hitting very close to home.
After the injury or death of a soldier, the military says its first priority is to protect the family from the prying eyes of the media and public in the days following tragedy. While the public will be quickly notified that a local soldier has been killed in action, no additional information will be released until 24 hours after the family has been notified in person.
SGT Thorne On CBS Evening News
SGT Scott Thorne will be featured in a segment on the CBS Evening News tonight (Friday, October 7, 2005). The story by David Martin profiles soldiers returning from war with serious head injuries. If you're new to the site you can read about Scott's amazing story through the almost-daily updates written by his father, Steve Thorne, last fall and winter.
1-17 INF Photos
Here are two new photos of the 1-17 INF operating in Mosul (one, two). The second photo is dated 06 October 2005.
U.S. Army Photos by Spc. Jeffrey Sandstrum
4-14 CAV Photos
Here are three photos of the 4-14 CAV, conducting operations in Iraq.(one, two, three,)
DOD Photos by Tech. Sgt. Andy Dunaway, U.S. Air Force
DoD Announces Issuance of Reimbursement Policy
DoD Press Release
The Department of Defense announced today the issuance of a policy and procedures for reimbursing members of the armed forces for privately purchased protective, safety or health equipment for Operations Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom as required by Public Law 108-375, section 351.
'The Brigade Made A Huge Difference In Northern Iraq'
Link to Full Article
By Keith Eldridge, KOMO News
FORT LEWIS - President Bush warns that al-Qaida is still plotting against America as he seeks to revive support for the war in Iraq. But what do the soldiers say? We had a chance to talk with the commander of the Stryker Brigade that just returned from Iraq.
For a year, the 4,000 soldiers from Fort Lewis have been battling the insurgents in Iraq. Today, the president says it's a fight that is nowhere near over: "We will never back down, never give in and never accept anything less than complete victory."
Returning home - Homecoming is more than party for two UVa-Wise players
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By COY BAYS, Coalfield.com
Richey attended Homecoming '04 activities at Carl Smith Stadium last fall while on leave and took part in a special pregame ceremony honoring wounded UVa-Wise classmate and fellow National Guardsman Dean Schwartz.
Pestana and Richey were two of three members of the UVa-Wise football team activated last year from their National Guard or Army Reserve units for duty in the Iraq war. The third, Wise's David Ison, has also returned to campus, but he has opted to pass on his senior season of football while concentrating on an exceptionally demanding class load. [...]
Artist captures the spirit of fallen soldiers
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By Melanthia Mitchell, Associated Press
EDMONDS, Wash. -- The images capture tender moments shattered by the brutality of war. Each one is a comfort to those left behind.
In Tennessee, a grandmother says good morning to the portrait of her smiling grandson.
In Virginia, a mother reflects over a sketch of her young son holding the daughter he never met, and never will.
4-14 CAV Photo
Here is one new photo of the 4-14 CAV in Iraq.
National Guard unit returns from Gulf Coast
Link to Full Article
Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA A National Guard unit from Philadelphia is back home from a month-long hurricane relief mission in Louisiana.
The unit arrived by bus this morning at the armory in Northeast Philadelphia.
Members of the 56th Stryker Brigade were happy to be home, but also were happy to have helped some desperate fellow Americans.
Captain John Cannon says the unit set up distribution points in various towns around New Orleans. Each day they handed out meals ready-to-eat, ice, and water, infant care products, baby food, diapers, formula and "things of that nature." [...]
Security forces capture terror suspects, seize weapons
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 6, 2005) – Multi-National forces from Task Force Freedom detained 48 suspected terrorists, seized weapons caches, and killed a terrorist during operations in northern Iraq Oct. 3-6.
Anaconda Times - Oct. 9, 2005 edition
The Oct. 9 edition of the Anaconda Times, published by Stars and Stripes, contains a cover story with photo of the 2-1 INF, entitled Kicking Down Doors in Rawah. Also check out the Oct. 2nd edition for the story Showering Isn't Easy in Rawah.
The Battle For Mosul IV
Michael Yon has posted his latest dispatch, The Battle For Mosul IV, which, as always, is a must read. In his email he mentions that after a brief respite in the States he is on his way back to Iraq, presumably to cover the upcoming elections.
Fort Rich soldiers win praise in firefight
Link to Full Article
By TATABOLINE BRANT, Anchorage Daily News
Two Fort Richardson soldiers involved in a firefight last month in Iraq that wounded six are being recommended for the Bronze Star, according to a platoon leader who took part in the hours-long battle.
Lt. Jeffrey Marshburn said by telephone from Iraq on Wednesday that one of the soldiers up for the award braved heavy gunfire to save a teammate who had been shot in both legs and was trying to crawl to safety.
Military Issues Content Warning to Combat-Zone Bloggers
The military continues to refine its rules regarding blogs, as outlined in the following article. Although we're not a combat-zone blog we still try and follow the same OPSEC guidelines. If you ever see any questionable content here please let us know.
Link to Full Article
By Leo Shane III, Stars and Stripes
WASHINGTON — Army officials this week issued new warnings to soldiers
about posting personal stories from combat zones on the Internet and
taking photos at overseas bases, saying those actions could jeopardize troops’ security.
The list of prohibited activities includes taking photos of Defense Department facilities, posting any official Defense Department information and releasing information detailing job responsibilities.
4-23 INF Photo
Here is one new photo of the 4-23 INF operating in Mosul.
DOD Photo by Spc. Jeffery Sandstrum, U.S. Army
Photo Essay - Stryker Brigade Patrols Mosul, Iraq
The 1-17 INF is featured in this new Defend America Photo Essay. Thanks to Theresa for spotting this so quickly.
U.S. Army Photos by Spc. Jeffrey Sandstrum
Fort Lewis revolving door keeps turning
Link to Full Article
By Michael Gilbert, News-Tribune
Nearly all the Stryker soldiers are home, but Fort Lewis still has some 3,000 soldiers either in Iraq or Afghanistan, or on their way soon.
The post has military police, medics and engineers spread across the Middle East and Central Asia. More engineers and support troops are bound for locations all over Iraq in the next few weeks.
Top Army honour for former Bishop’s pupil
Link to Full Article
By Michael Byrne, The Rochdale Observer
A FORMER Bishop Henshaw School pupil has received one of the American Army’s top awards.
Staff Sergeant Donald Tucker has been awarded the Bronze Star for helping to save lives in Iraq during a 12 month tour of duty as a senior medic at American military bases near Mosul.
2-1 INF Photo
A new photo of the 2-1 INF in Anah, Iraq can be seen on the MNF-Iraq Photos page, dated 03 October 2005.
U.S. Air Force Photo by Tech. Sgt. Andy Dunaway
Forces strike terrorists in northern Iraq
This article has a photo of a soldier from the 1-17th Infantry.
Link to Full Article
Army News Service
MOSUL, Iraq (Army News Service, Oct. 3, 2005) – Iraqi security forces and Soldiers from Task Force Freedom detained 49 suspected terrorists, killed two insurgents, injured another two, and seized weapons during operations in northern Iraq Sep. 30 - Oct. 3.
Nine individuals suspected of terrorist activity were detained during a cordon and search operation in western Mosul Oct. 2. In central Mosul on the same day, three individuals suspected of terrorist activity were detained by Iraqi police alongside Soldiers from the 2/1 Infantry Regiment during a cordon and search operation.
Disaster victims receive help from these midstaters
Link to Full Article
BY MEGAN WALDE, The Patriot-News
Members of the Pennsylvania Army Na tional Guard's 56th Stryker Brigade have been in Louisiana for a little over a month helping with relief efforts after hurricanes Katrina and Rita caused widespread destruction in communities from Texas to Alabama.
For most of the mission, they worked at food distribution points in hard-hit communities around New Orleans. They handed out food, water and ice, secured distribution centers and warehouses, and escorted commercial haulers. [...]
4-14 CAV Photo
One new photo, picturing Spc. Lionel Lare of the 4-14 CAV, can be seen on this page of MNF-Iraq Photos. Its the one dated October 1st. The 2-1 INF photo dated Oct. 2nd was previously posted.
U.S. Air Force Photo by Tech. Sgt. Andy Dunaway
Outpost in the Sand
Link to Full Article
By CRAIG S. SMITH, The New York Times
RAWA, Iraq - A few miles outside this sleepy river town, marked in many places with black spray-painted scrawls hailing the network of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, called Al Qaeda in Mesopotamia, American troops are building a desert outpost of plywood huts protected by dirt-filled blast barriers and surrounded by a high berm.
Mosul Substation Expansion to Benefit Millions
Link To Article
By U.S. Army Maj. Jim Hawkins
Gulf Region Division
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
BAGHDAD, Iraq, Sept. 30, 2005 — A substation expansion project in Mosul will increase the existing capacity of the 400 kV Mosul substation to allow for an additional 400 kV transmission line between Mosul and Baghdad. The Mosul substation expansion is a critical, electric grid system element to increase the amount of available power to the entire country. The expansion provides the capacity to distribute power more reliably, thereby affecting six million people.
Iraq Report
Winds of Change has published its weekly Iraq Report, with links to news and analysis of recent events there.
Dispatches From Iraq
Dave has posted a new Dispatch From Iraq on his site from his friend Matt with the 1/25 SBCT.
ISF and MNF continue strikes against terrorists
(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 3, 2005) – Iraqi security forces and Multi-National forces from Task Force Freedom including 172nd Infantry Brigade (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) and 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 49 suspected terrorists, killed two terrorists, injured another two, and seized weapons during operations in northern Iraq Sep. 30 - Oct. 3.
Tons of work clear way for Stryker
Link to Full Article
By William Cole, Honolulu Advertiser
Artillery rounds, grenades and mortars — and lots of them — are coming out of the ground from a firing range at Schofield Barracks.
Nine teams with contractor Zapata Engineers have been working on an 820-acre site since July 2004 to remove decades worth of unexploded ordnance.
Town bonds with brigade
Link to Full Article
By EIJIRO KAWADA; The News Tribune
It was around midnight, and Puyallup Mayor Kathy Turner was trying not to fall asleep as she sat with her husband, Gary, in the bleachers of a Fort Lewis gymnasium. [...]
U.S. and Iraq Step Up Effort to Block Insurgents' Routes
Link to Full Article
By CRAIG S. SMITH, New York Times (subscription)
RAWA, Iraq - A few miles outside this sleepy river town, marked in many places with black spray-painted scrawls hailing the network of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, called Al Qaeda in Mesopotamia, American troops are building a desert outpost of plywood huts protected by dirt-filled blast barriers and surrounded by a high berm.
State, Army tailor popular program to military women
Link to Full Article
By MARGARET FRIEDENAUER, News-Miner
Since Denise Goldstine's husband deployed with the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team to Iraq last month, she's had to take on extra roles. She's mother and father, student, caregiver, breadwinner and more. This weekend she decided to add another title to her name. She is becoming an outdoors woman.
Goldstine and about 50 other military spouses, active-duty soldiers and Department of Defense employees took part in the first All Military Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshop held at Fort Wainwright.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game and The Hunter Heritage Foundation of Alaska has been hosting the Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshops for 10 years in the Interior. According to Fish and Game spokeswoman Cathie Harms, about two years ago several people began talking of bringing the workshop to Fort Wainwright specifically for the military community. [...]
Striking up the operations
Link to Full Article
MARGARET FRIEDENAUER
Soldiers from the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team from Fort Wainwright and Fort Richardson Army posts have been busy in Iraq.
The Task Force Freedom Multinational Force-Northwest in Mosul has issued several press releases over the last two weeks about the activities of the brigade, including detaining suspected terrorists, finding weapons caches and recovering explosives. But the brigade is also carving out time for humanitarian projects.
According to Maj. Herman B. Cheatham Jr., chaplain with the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment with the 172nd, soldiers with the 1-17th held a one-day medical clinic for Iraqi citizens in the unit's area of operation. Soldiers conducted a medical screening of women, children and men in Al Jededa, a neighborhood within Mosul. The team consisted of interpreters, medical professionals, infantry soldiers, coalition forces and a religious support team.