MND-B Soldiers seize weapons caches throughout Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized weapons caches in Baghdad Sept. 27.
Iraqi Army soldiers found a rocket head and six mortars in a trash pile in Karkh at noon and turned the cache over to Soldiers serving with the 4th Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.
Approximately 30 minutes later, Soldiers serving with Task Force 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, which is currently attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division discovered four explosively formed penetrators and three Bulgarian grenades in the Sadr City district of Baghdad.
NP, SoI, local resident lead MND-B Soldiers to weapons cache
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – A tip from a local resident and weapons turned in by the National Police and Sons of Iraq led Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers to the seizure of munitions in Baghdad Sept. 29.
Policemen with the 2nd Brigade, 1st National Police Division turned in a Russian-manufactured F1 grenade, three Iraqi-manufactured grenades, a rocket-propelled grenade and a tail boom for an RPG to Soldiers serving with Company B, 1st Battalion 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, MND-B, north of Baghdad at approximately 5 p.m.
After receiving a tip from a concerned citizen, Soldiers serving with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd SBCT, 25th Inf. Div., found a cache north of Baghdad at approximately 6:15 p.m. The munitions included a 60 mm mortar tube, a 7 mm pistol and other bomb-making materials.
Deployment Announcements
The DoD just announced the next units scheduled to deploy to Iraq - both the 3/2 SBCT and the 5/2 SBCT are on the list. These deployments will begin in the winter and extend into the summer of 2009. There was no specific indication when each unit will leave. This will be the first deployment for the newly formed 5/2 SBCT and the third for the 3/2 SBCT.
Related:
Surprise surprise: Fort Lewis units to Iraq - FOB Tacoma
Army sending 10,000 Fort Lewis soldiers to Iraq - Seattle Times
Area troops ordered to Iraq - Seattle P-I
5/2 SBCT Almost Ready
Mike Gilbert of The News Tribune has a nice long article about the 5/2 SBCT as it trains to reach certification. Excerpt:
The Army’s seventh and final Stryker brigade is in the home stretch of its buildup to enter the U.S. fighting forces.When that’s done, it will be the fourth Stryker unit built at Fort Lewis.
And it will further cement the reputation of the medium-weight, highly mobile combat brigades. They faced skepticism from no less than then-Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld – doubts that were quickly overcome after the original brigade left Fort Lewis five years ago for the proving grounds of Iraq.
Though all this may be a milestone, soldiers with the 5th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division have their sights set on what’s likely to come next: a yearlong combat tour.
Ham Visits Troops
Gen. Carter Ham, the new commander of USAREUR, recently visited Europe-based troops deployed to Iraq, including the 2nd SCR. Excerpt:
He also wanted to talk about how best to redeploy troops that are almost certain to deploy again in a year, with new senior leaders. [...]As for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment from Vilseck, the challenge is a little different. That unit will be leaving about half its 300 Strykers in Kuwait, which means many Strykers will have to be obtained quickly for training. [...]
He spent much of his final day in the back of a Stryker, traveling among several eerie combat outposts in old Iraqi buildings in Diyala province — sparsely furnished but with elliptical machines — to see soldiers with the 2nd Stryker Combat Regiment.
End of an Era
Mike Gilbert, the military reporter for The News Tribune, announced he was leaving the paper after 21 years. For my money he has been the best reporter covering Ft. Lewis and its Stryker Brigades. I hope you join me in wishing him the very best. Thanks Mike.
'They brought me back to life'
FORT LEWIS, Wash - Spc. Wesley Hixon never set out to get a Purple Heart or to be a hero when he left for Iraq. But on Sept. 18, hundreds of his family members, friends, fellow Soldiers and medical staff packed into the Letterman Auditorium at Fort Lewis' Madigan Army Medical Center to hear the story of how he ended up fighting for his life while fighting for his country.
On Feb. 8, 2008, Hixon, a Soldier with 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, was driving his Stryker through streets in Iraq when it was struck by a 500-pound improvised explosive device.
The IED ripped through the cab of the vehicle, killing four of the five Soldiers riding inside. Hixon, left dangling upside down in the twisted remains of the Stryker, was the only one left alive.
Two hours later, he was freed and on his way to Balad.
IA, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons caches in greater Baghdad area
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized weapons caches in the West Rashid district of Baghdad Sept. 25.
Soldiers serving with Company C, 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, seized a rocket, three 60 mm mortar rounds, five 120 mm mortar rounds and eight rocket-propelled grenade warheads north of Baghdad at approximately 10:30 a.m.
Later in the evening, soldiers serving with the 4th Battalion, 22nd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, found a 60 mm mortar round, a hand grenade and an RPG while on patrol in the Kadhamiyah district of Baghdad at approximately 9:20 p.m.
3-103rd Deploys
Spc. Shawn Miller/109th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. -- Duty, honor, country, family. The words known so well to local Soldiers of the 3/103rd Regiment echoed across the parade field at the Grove Street armory Thursday afternoon as the community gathered with friends and families to wish luck to the unit as they deploy to Iraq on a year-long mission as part of the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the 28th Infantry Division.
Duty, honor and country are the easy parts of deploying, say most Soldiers. Leaving family behind, they agree, is much harder for them.
Leaving on his first deployment, Pfc. Joshua Herlt had to say goodbye to his 3-day old son. “It was nice that I got to be there to watch the birth though,” he said, remarking how the baby came early.
The show of support and well-wishes from the community during the ceremony really helps the Soldiers, said Capt. Briton Orndorf, organizer of the event and rear detachment commander of the 3/103rd.
Engineers partner with infantry Soldiers to clear caches
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Multi- National Division – Baghdad Soldiers conducted a weapons cache search on the east bank of the Tigris River Sept. 14, near Camp Taji, northwest of Baghdad.
The mission was conducted by a platoon with the 66th Engineer Company, along with a squad of infantry Soldiers assigned to Company B, 52nd Infantry Regiment, attached to 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, both units from 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. Joining them were two canine teams from the 34th Military Police Detachment.
This mission was not typical for a platoon from an engineer company. Their major responsibility is extracting improvised-explosive devices and other ordnances from tactical routes.
56th SBCT Articles
There have been a number of articles re: the recent mobilization of the 56th SBCT (PA NG), including this one by the Altoona Mirror. Excerpt:
TYRONE - The members of Detachment One, Charlie Company, Second Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment were greeted by rousing applause and a flurry of flags Wednesday as they marched past saluting veterans onto Gray-Veterans Memorial Field.''This is a stop on the road to liberty,'' Lt. Col. Samuel Hayes III said as he thanked the hundreds who packed the bleachers to honor the 69 citizen soldiers of the Pennsylvania National Guard, part of the 56th Stryker Brigade.
The soldiers leave today, bound for Baghdad, after a few months of additional training at stateside bases.
Home From War
Seattle Weekly has a long profile of former 4/2 SBCT solider Mike Siegel, who was injured in Iraq. Excerpt:
Shortly after the incident, the Army transported him back to Fort Lewis, where on May 28 he became one of approximately 20,000 Iraq War veterans so far to receive a Purple Heart.Less than a month later, Siegel was escorted off the same Army base and instructed to sign a document stipulating that he could not return. He had been kicked out—or in military parlance, "administratively separated"—due to a urinalysis that revealed the presence of cocaine. As a result, he lost a host of benefits he might have otherwise received, including military-provided health care, disability pay, and eligibility for the GI Bill.
Siegel is one of numerous combat veterans being penalized after turning to drugs and alcohol or acting out in other ways. The Army and Navy discharged 3,300 people for drug use alone in the 2007 fiscal year (which ended September 2007) . (The two military branches did not supply figures for how many of those people had served in Iraq or Afghanistan.) Fort Lewis released nearly 200 soldiers for drug use in the first 10 months of the 2008 fiscal year—almost twice the number that it did in 2003, the year the Iraq War began.
Thanks to Dan for the link.
Warrior Adventure Quest
Seattle P-I reporter Mike Barber has an entry on his blog about a new 4/2 SBCT program to combat PTSD called Warrior Adventure Quest. Excerpt:
You might not think that jumping out of an airplane at 13,000 feet is a way to cope with post-traumatic stress disorder.But a new program being tested at Fort Lewis aims to help returning soldiers readjust from a high-adrenaline combat zone to home life by offering high-adventure challenges to blow off steam.
More than 40 soldiers from the post's 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment of the 4th Stryker Brigade, which returned in June after a 15-month deployment to Iraq, will participate this week "Warrior Adventure Quest." WAQ, for short.
Tip leads MND-B Soldiers to weapons cache in the Baghdad area
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized weapons caches in the Baghdad area Sept 22.
Information from a Sons of Iraq (led Soldiers serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, to a cache north of Baghdad at approximately 1:45 p.m. The munitions included a 120 mm mortar round, six 57 mm projectiles, two improvised explosive devices, seven blasting caps, a hand grenade, a jug of unknown bulk explosives with detonation cord, a propane tank, four blocks of Russian-manufactured TNT and other bomb-making material.
Another tip from an Iraqi citizen led Soldiers serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, MND-B to a 25 mm round, a grenade and an SKS rifle in the West Rashid district of Baghdad at approximately 6:30 p.m.
“SoI and the citizens of Iraq play a key part in the improved security environment in Baghdad,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, MND-B and the 4th Infantry Division. “Their informative tips prove a great partnership with Coalition Forces.
Wolfhounds Plow Through Blizzard
By Staff Sgt. J.B. Jaso III, 2/25 SBCT
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – There is a blizzard hitting Husayniyah town, northeast of Baghdad, Iraq.
This blizzard isn’t cooling the summer temperatures, nor is it blowing snow. Rather Soldiers from Multi-National Division – Baghdad’s Company A, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, are weathering the 110-degree, end of summer heat and severe dust storms in an effort to rid the area of terrorist activities as part of Operation Wolfhound Blizzard.
The operation began Sept. 1, 2008 and is an ongoing effort between the Wolfhounds and the 2nd Brigade, 1st Iraqi national police Division, to ensure the safety of residents in the area.
Operation Blizzard increased a presence of NP and Wolfhounds in the Istaqlal Qada. The NP and Soldiers informed residents about criminals in the area and highlighted recent essential service gains.
Iraqi Army Soldiers Tackle New Mission
By Sgt. Michael Moody, 2/25 SBCT
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Iraq has seen remarkable gains in security during the last nine months, due in part to the hard work of the Iraqi army.
Until recently the IA only dealt with kinetic-type missions such as kicking in doors, serving arrest warrants, patrolling and defending security sites. However, the continued growth of the IA, both in terms of numbers and operational experience, allows them to take on missions formerly handled exclusively by coalition forces.
Now, due to the increased confidence and experience of IA soldiers, and their leaders, they are beginning to tackle missions through diplomacy, public relations and engaging local leaders.
Woldfhound Leader Is Part of Team
By Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, 2/25 SBCT
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – During a World War II battle in Holtzwihr, France, Audie Murphy, a wounded U.S. Soldier, climbed inside of a burning tank, took a spot behind a .50-caliber machine gun and fired until the enemy was vanquished.
At the age of 19, he was awarded the Medal of Honor and, to this day, is an inspiration to military leaders, Soldiers – and Sgt. 1st Class Ernest Oberst.
“As a kid, I used to watch the Audie Murphy Biography ‘To Hell and Back’ on TV, and I wanted to be a Soldier, said Oberst, native of Gladstone, Mich., who joined the Army three months after graduating high school. “He was my hero.”
Oberst is a platoon sergeant with 1st Platoon, Company B, 52nd Infantry Regiment, attached to 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
Strykers in Germany
Stars & Stripes has another article describing the training exercise elements of the 3/2 SBCT are participating in. Excerpt:
Training with an Afghan scenario, with coalition partners in Germany, is an interesting experience for the Strykers, who got back from Iraq in September last year and are waiting to find out what their next assignment will be, he said."Any time we can work with the nations we are going to work with downrange is a bonus. Our [allies’] armies tend to be similar to us in structure, but there are a lot of small things that, if you are not familiar with them, can create problems," he said.
The U.S. Army says it is unlikely that the Strykers will head to Afghanistan, but Goodine said they would have not a problem operating there if the call came.
Stryker Soldier Injured in Training
Various news outlets have reported that a 5/2 SBCT soldier was critically injured during the brigade's training exercise in Yakima, WA. His condition has been upgraded to serious.
- Soldier injured at Yakima - FOB Tacoma
- Condition of injured Fort Lewis soldier upgraded - The News Tribune
- Soldier seriously injured in Yakima Training Center mishap - The Yakima Herald
Land Warrior in Training
The Northwest Guardian has an article featuring the 5/2 SBCT's use of the Land Warrior system during training in Yakima, WA. Excerpt:
Land Warrior systems will cover new ground next week, borne by unprecedented numbers of Soldiers in 5th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division into their next phase of training.The Destroyer Brigade, the first scheduled to deploy to combat with all of its maneuver elements equipped with the sophisticated Soldier-worn combat system, has completed a summer of intensive training and will travel next week to Yakima for a field training exercise.
Land Warrior is a “system of systems” that enhances Soldiers’ situational awareness on the battlefield, provides maps, imagery and graphics that can be modified on the fly, and connects Soldiers digitally through text and voice transmissions.
Reconstruction improves Tarmiyah infrastructure
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Reconstruction projects are underway to return essential services like schools, potable water, sewers and banks, to the region of Tarmiyah, northwest of Baghdad.
“The bottom line is that increased capacity is what every Iraqi needs right now,” said 1st Lt. Eric Peterson, platoon leader assigned to Company A,1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. “Their infrastructure ha0s decayed a little bit because of conflict over the years, so we’re trying to counteract those effects by really getting into these reconstruction projects as heavy and as hard as we can to give them this capacity.”
A major focus has been placed on completing education buildings first.
2/25 SBCT in Taji
According to an article in Stars & Stripes the reduction in violence in the 2/25 SBCT area of operations can make it difficult to focus. Excerpt:
Col. Todd McCaffrey, commander for the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division based at Camp Taji, insists U.S. forces still have an aggressive security role in the region."But we are asking questions like, ‘Why do we patrol?’ " he said. "We’re doing it to conduct reconnaissance, to answer questions on the ground. [...]
But the changing role has left many soldiers scratching their heads.
"Don’t get me wrong; I’m really happy it’s been quiet," said Spc. Joe Lorenz, a medic attached to the 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Division. "If I’m busy and working, it means bad stuff has happened. But if I’m not busy, it makes me wonder what I’m doing here."
Australian troops clear buildings in 'Cooperative Spirit'
HOHENFELS, Germany (Army News Service, Sept. 17, 2008) -- A quiet still encompassed the room of a remote building. Only the sound of fresh rain water falling from the roof could be heard through the calm. All of a sudden, the loud bang of a door being forced open echoed across the dwelling.
Soldiers poured into the building one by one with their weapons drawn as they searched for hostile targets. The loud pop of blank rounds being shot off reverberated across the room as Australian Soldiers took out their targets.
The military operations in urban terrain, or MOUT training, was part of "Cooperative Spirit 2008," a month-long exercise in Germany involving American, British, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand ground forces. About 1,800 troops from the five nations in the ABCA Armies Program are participating in the exercise that began Sept. 12. It will focus on the interoperability of equipment and the exchanging of tactics.
2-3 INF Training
The Northwest Guardian reports on a recent training competition called the Patriot Challenge. Excerpt:
In their ongoing mission to prepare and train for deployment overseas while also raising morale, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment leaders challenged their Soldiers to a squad-level competition Sept. 12.Dubbed the Patriot Challenge, the event was modeled after the Best Ranger Competition, and was designed to both assess team leaders and develop a tighter, stronger unit.
“Sergeant Major (Timothy Dotson) and I talked, and we wanted to do something to continue to build a team here,” said battalion commander Lt. Col. Adam Rocke, “continue to make it physically demanding and strenuous and something to have a reward, a benefit for exerting all their energy, and I think that’s what we did.”
That reward was a post-challenge battalion barbecue.
Warrior News - September 2008
Warrior News is a monthly publication distributed by the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division public affairs office. It features photos, articles and other items of interest to the 2/25 SBCT community.
Provided below is a link to the most recent edition. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer to open the document, but it is available for free if you need it.
- Warrior News - September 2008 Edition (PDF)
Soldiers Reunite
The Daily News has a nice profile of two childhood friends who are now both LTs with the 1/25 SBCT, which is set to deploy to Iraq. Excerpt:
Drew Holt, 23, and Drew Maney, 24, have a lot in common. In addition to sharing a first name, the Shalimar natives attended the same schools, played soccer on the same team and shared the same dream of joining the Army.After graduating from Choctawhatchee High School one year apart, the longtime friends didn't see much of each other. But that all changed last March.
First Lt. Maney and 2nd Lt. Holt found themselves in the same brigade as part of the 25th Infantry Division at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.
Five nations begin 'Cooperative Spirit' in Germany
(Here's an official press release re: the training exercise we mentioned previously involving elements of the 3/2 SBCT.)
BY Staff Sgt. Tony White and Spc. Opal Hood
HOHENFELS, Germany (Army News Service, Sept. 16, 2008) - American, British, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand ground forces held an opening ceremony for "Cooperative Spirit 2008" Friday at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany.
The ceremony signaled the start to the ABCA Armies' month-long training exercise. About 1,800 troops from the five nations are participating in a variety of training, including cordon and searches, downed aircraft recovery, provincial reconstruction team operations and live-fire scenarios. Officials said Cooperative Spirit will primarily focus on the interoperability of equipment and the exchanging of tactics and procedures between the five-nation coalition.
"Interoperability, in my mind, is the ability of all of us to look each other in the eye to make orders and directives and to understand one another and to go out and complete missions together," said U.S. Army Col. David Funk, commander of the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division. "Our Army continues to fight ... and we don't fight it alone."
Although goals for all the nations are the same, there are still trials that must be overcome.
Tip leads MND-B Soldiers to munitions
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – A Sons of Iraq member and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers combined their efforts to secure the Baghdad area and uncover weapons caches Sept. 16.
A tip from a Sheik, who serves as a SoI member, led Soldiers serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, to the seizure of seven 57 mm rockets northwest of Baghdad at approximately 10:30 a.m.
At approximately 12:30 p.m., Soldiers serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 14th Inf. Regt., 2nd SBCT, 25th Inf. Div., found a munitions cache north of Baghdad. The munitions included a 152 mm high-explosive projectile, five sticks of TNT, 15 pounds of TNT charges, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher and a rifle.
“The Soldiers of 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, continue to diligently scour the areas north and northwest of Baghdad to remove these dangerous weapons as threats to the Iraqi people,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, MND-B and the 4th Infantry Division. “Working with the Sheiks, Sons of Iraq and Iraqi Security Forces in their areas, they are truly making a difference every day.”
IA, MND-B Soldiers help rid Baghdad of deadly munitions
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army soldiers and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers continued to take weapons off the streets of Baghdad Sept. 15-16.
Soldiers serving with Company B, 1st Battalion 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, MND-B, found a 64 mm rocket propelled grenade-18 launcher north of Baghdad at approximately 6:15 a.m Sept. 15.
While on patrol in the Kadamiyah district of Baghdad, soldiers serving with 4th Battalion, 22nd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division found two hand grenades, a hand grenade and an Iranian 81 mm high explosive mortar round at approximately 11:15 a.m.
Later that evening at approximately 9 p.m., a tip led Soldiers serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), to a cache. The munitions included 20 multi-array explosively formed penetrators of various sizes, a shape charge, a machine gun, a Mauser rifle, two Dragonov sniper rifles, 18 Iranian manufactured RPG war heads and two RPG launchers.
Soldiers serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, discovered seven 60 mm mortars inside a bag in a courtyard in the West Rashid district of Baghdad at approximately 12:30 a.m. Sept. 16.
“American and Iraqi soldiers are persistent in their pursuit of the enemy and in removing its weapons and munitions,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, 4th Infantry Div. and MND-B. “We will not cease in our efforts to successfully bring criminals and terrorists to justice.”
Odierno Assumes Command of Coalition Forces in Iraq
By Jim Garamone, American Forces Press Service
CAMP VICTORY — Army Gen. Ray Odierno assumed command of Multi-National Force-Iraq from Army Gen. David H. Petraeus during a ceremony at al Faw Palace here Sept. 16.
The change of command occurs after incredible progress in the country, said Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, who traveled to Baghdad to participate in the ceremony.
“When General Petraeus took charge 19 months ago, darkness had descended on this land,” the secretary said. “Merchants of chaos were gaining strength. Death was commonplace. Around the world, questions mounted about whether a new strategy – or any strategy, for that matter – could make a real difference.”
56th SBCT Mobilizing
Over the weekend there were a few local articles regarding the upcoming mobilization of the 56th SBCT (PA NG). The unit will train for a number of months in the US before deploying to Iraq.
- 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team set to head to Iraq - Delaware County Daily Times
- Stryker team to make history - Lebanon Daily News
- Ready or not, families prepare - Lebanon Daily News
War Gaming
Some 3/2 SBCT soldiers are in Germany right now to participate in a multi-national military exercise. Excerpt:
ABCA Armies — an organization that promotes interoperability between the five nations — is overseeing the exercise, which involves almost 2,000 personnel and runs until Oct. 8.During the training, soldiers from the Fort Lewis, Wash.- based 3rd Stryker Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division and the other ABCA nations will conduct operations as if they are in Afghanistan and respond to simulated attacks conducted by 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment soldiers playing the role of Taliban insurgents.
The five ABCA nations have troops serving in Afghanistan and all have had troops in Iraq in recent years.
Citizen’s tip leads MND-B Soldiers to weapons cache
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized a weapon cache northwest of Baghdad Sept. 14.
A tip from a local concerned citizen led Soldiers serving with Troop C, 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division,MND-B, to a cache northwest of Baghdad at approximately 8 p.m.
The Soldiers seized six PG-7s, six rocket-propelled grenades, 12 PG-7Cs, 16 60 mm mortars and a 60 mm mortar tube.
“Thanks to a tip provided by a local concerned citizen, MND-B Soldiers were able to remove these potentially harmful weapons and munitions,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, MND-B and the 4th Infantry Division. “Concerned citizens are increasingly stepping up and helping to provide for a safer environment for their fellow Iraqis.”
MND-B Soldiers find two caches
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers found weapons caches throughout Baghdad Sept. 14.
Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, were led to a cache west of Baghdad by a concerned citizen at approximately 5:45 a.m. The cache included a 60 mm mortar, 19 82 mm mortars, 100 40 mm grenades, an SA-14 missile, a GPS system and various bomb-making materials.
Soldiers from the same company found a 60 mm mortar during an operation to capture a suspected Special Groups member in the same area at 6 a.m.
“It is the American Soldier whose daily selfless service and sacrifice is making a positive difference in the lives of all Iraqis,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, Multi-National Division – Baghdad and the 4th Infantry Division. “Each day they put themselves in harm’s way to protect the people of Iraq and increase stability and security in full partnership with their Iraqi brothers and sisters.”
Parting Words
On September 16, 2008 General Raymond Odierno will assume command from General David Petraeus of all military forces in Iraq. Petraeus, who will lead Centcom, wrote a final letter to the troops (PDF file).
Land Warrior Update
The Arizona Republic reports on a new contract for General Dynamics to supply the 5/2 SBCT with an updated version of the Land Warrior system that the 4/2 SBCT tested in combat during its recent deployment. Excerpt:
The Army initially deployed about 400 of the systems, which are now getting rave reviews from soldiers, who helped get initial bugs out of the system.The new contract is for an additional 900 systems to equip the 5th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division Stryker Brigade Combat Team.
Land Warrior was first deployed to Iraq with the 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment.
IA, MND-B Soldiers seize munitions in Baghdad area
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers found several weapons caches in Baghdad Sept. 11.
Soldiers serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, MND-B, found a cache northwest of Baghdad at approximately 11:45 a.m. The munitions included 15 120 mm mortars, three 130 mm rounds, five 57 mm rounds, three rocket-propelled grenades, two magnet improvised-explosive devices, four hand grenades, an IED, 50 7.62 ammunition, 30 fuses, and IED-making materials and various communication gear.
At approximately the same time on a separate mission, Iraqi soldiers serving with 2nd Battalion, 22nd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, seized two 120 mm tank rounds in the Kadhamiyah district of Baghdad.
Two local citizens notified Soldiers serving with 7th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, about the location of munitions in the East Rashid district of Baghdad at approximately 4:30 p.m. Soldiers from Company B, 7th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. investigated the area and seized two 57 mm unarmed rocket-propelled grenades
At approximately 9 p.m., a local sheik, who is also a Sons of Iraq member, turned in 22 fuse heads and a pistol to Soldiers serving with Troop B, 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd SBCT, 25th Inf. Div., who were on a patrol northwest of Baghdad.
“Multi-National Division Baghdad Soldiers and Iraqi Security Forces continue to see great strides in providing a safer, more secure area for the residents of Baghdad and the surrounding area,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, MND-B and the 4th Inf. Div. “Together, their efforts are making a difference each and every day.”
Operation Atlas
by Spc. Shawn Miller, 109th MPAD
FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. – They may not have known each other before this week, but now hundreds of Pennsylvania Army National Guardsmen from various units across the state will be joining forces to fight together in Iraq with the deploying 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the 28th Infantry Division.
The Soldiers training here as part of Operation Atlas have come from a medley of units across the state, and are acting as reinforcements and filling in vacancies in the 56th SBCT’s force. The two-week long Operation Atlas is now getting those Soldiers up to speed on the skills and training such as urban operations and weapons familiarization before they are sent to Camp Shelby, Mississippi to join the rest of the 56th SBCT later this month.
“[Operation Atlas] is a way to train the division backfills on all the tasks and training that the 56th went through at annual training,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Lohr, the non-commissioned officer-in-charge of the urban operations course. “It will make the transition into the 56th easier for them.”
1/25 SBCT Deployment Ceremony
The 1/25 SBCT is holding its deployment ceremony today at Fort Wainwright.
Related:
Fairbanks-based Stryker Brigade ready for challenges in Iraq - Daily News Miner
Alaska Stryker brigade to deploy to Iraq - ArmyTimes.com
Over 1,000 displaced citizens return to Diyala
Multi-National Division – North PAO
DIYALA, Iraq – Over 1,000 displaced Diyala citizens have returned to their homes after being forced out by sectarian conflicts and intimidation.
According to current Coalition force reports, over 1,000 families have returned to their homes in Diyala Province since July 2008. These figures include over 180 families who returned to their homes in the Al Abarra District, over 100 families in the Qualis area, over 40 families in the Ameriyah area, approximately 50 families in the Abu Tamur area, over 300 families in West Baqubah and nearly 300 families in Bezul.
“The return of displaced persons is a visible sign of progress in Diyala Province and clearly indicates improvements in the security situation and increased confidence in the provincial government are giving people the welcomed chance to return to their homes,” said Maj. Jon Pendell, spokesperson for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
Strykehorse Leader Leads With Laughter
By Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, 2/25 SBCT PAO
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – All leaders have their unique thoughts on what it is and means to be a leader. One “Strykehorse” Soldier explained what being a leader is to him recently.
“Leadership is being that guy,” said 1st Sgt. William Burford. “Everybody likes a professional Soldier. Even if you disagree with him, you admire the principles he stands on.”
Burford, a native of Slidell, La., and first sergeant of Headquarters and Headquarter Troop, 2nd Battalion 14th Cavalry Regiment “Strykehorse,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad joined the U.S. Army in 1987 as a tanker, and although it was years ago, he remembers what it’s like as a young Soldier in the Army and learn from his leaders.
“I wasn’t born with this first sergeant rank,” he said.
MND-B Soldiers Awarded for Excellence at Detainee Facility
By Sgt. Whitney Houston, 2/25 SBCT
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Two Soldiers who work at the Detainee Holding Area Annex at Camp Taji, northwest of Baghdad were awarded Army Achievement Medals Sept. 6, 2008.
Spc. Denver Hankis, native of Calico Rock, Ark., and Spc. David Misicka, a native of Chicago, both assigned to Company B, 225th Brigade Support Battalion, “Mongoose,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi- National Division – Baghdad, were recognized for their consistency and excellence in performing their daily duties.
“There are a lot of rules and regulations these guys have to follow,” said Master Sgt. Nicanor Mendez, a native of San Antonio, Texas, and Military Police liaison officer to 2nd SBCT, assigned to the 411th MP Company. “These guys get here every day, do monotonous work, and they continuously do their duties, without skipping steps which could cause a mishap.”
Flag From Hell’s Kitchen Firehouse Flies True
By Sgt. 1st Class Brian Addis, 2/25 SBCT
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The flag of the United States of America is one of the most widely recognized symbols in the world – it is the symbol of freedom and democracy.
And one flag in particular has a special meaning for the Soldiers of Multi-National Division – Baghdad’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division.
On a fateful day in American history, September 11, 2001, the bright red, white and blue flag was dulled by a coverage of dust following the collapse of the World Trade Center in New York.
Peering closely at this particular flag, which now resides at Camp Taji, you can see the many small burn holes where hot ash fell on it – and burned through.
MND-B Infantry Soldier Leads Way
By Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, 2/25 SBCT
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – To be an infantry Soldier; a person has to be technically and tactically proficient, in great physical shape, ready to move at a moment’s notice, and must constantly maintain discipline and motivation.
It’s not a job just anyone can do.
Many Soldiers join the Army shortly after high school with the desire to make something of themselves and provide opportunity for their future.
Sgt. 1st Class Glen DeMarcus, native of San Diego, platoon sergeant assigned to Headquarters Platoon, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, joined the Army, but the journey to enlistment took 10 years.
IA, MND-B Soldiers seize munitions in Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers continue seizing weapons caches in Baghdad Sept. 5.
At approximately 9 a.m., while searching a street in the Mansour district of Baghdad, soldiers serving with 1st Battalion, 54th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division found nine blocks of TNT inside an empty store.
While acting on a tip from a local Sheik, Soldiers serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division seized a cache northwest of Baghdad at approximately 11:45 a.m. The munitions included 12 cases of 14.5 ammunition, two 122 mm charge canisters, 500 .50 caliber ammunition and a DSHKA heavy machine gun barrel.
“The Iraqi community is taking a stand against terrorist and Special Groups criminals,” said Maj. Mark Cheadle, spokesman for MND-B and the 4th Infantry Division. “Through our partnership with Iraqi Security Forces and help of Iraqi citizens, we are creating a safer Baghdad.”
Power in Taji
Stars & Stripes also has an article on efforts by the 2-11 FA, 2/25 SBCT to bring more electricity to the Baghdad suburb of Taji. Excerpt:
TAJI, Iraq — Residents living around this northern Baghdad suburb have begun complaining about the two- to four-hour blackouts that happen here daily. U.S. soldiers consider it a huge success.That’s because in some areas south, especially in parts of the Iraqi capital, one or two hours of electricity a day from the national power grid is the norm.
While not ideal, the 14-plus hours of electricity residents of Taji receive — and even more in the areas in the more rural north — is a testament to how far the region has progressed, according to Maj. Anthony Barbina, brigade engineer for the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division.
NFL Kickoff
According to Stars & Stripes the time difference didn't stop some football fans with the 2/25 SBCT from staying up to watch the first regular season NFL game of season. Excerpt:
CAMP TAJI, Iraq — When New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs plowed into Washington safety LaRon Landry in the first quarter, Staff Sgt. Tom Smarr leaped out of his chair."Oh, he just got run over!" the soldier said, laughing. "This game is going to be over before the third quarter."
Smarr, a soldier with the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, said he didn’t really care how Thursday’s NFL opener turned out. As a Dallas Cowboys fan, he was rooting against both teams.
Iraq in Photos
One of my favorite sites is The Big Picture, which selects a particular story from the news and uses high resolution photos instead of words to drive the narrative. Last week the editor compiled a gallery of photos from Iraq and a number of 2nd SCR soldiers are featured.
IA, NP, local citizens combine efforts to seize munitions in Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army and Iraqi National Police continue seizing weapons caches in Baghdad Sept. 3 and 4.
At approximately 5:30 p.m. Sept 3, police serving with the 2nd Battalion, 5th Brigade, 2nd National Police Division, discovered a cache buried in a garden in the al-Aamel neighborhood in the West Rashid district of Baghdad. The munitions included 256 pounds of manufactured explosives, three mortar rounds, an 82 mm mortar round and a 60 mm high explosive mortar round.
A local citizen provided a tip on the location of a cache northwest of Baghdad to Soldiers serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. The Soldiers passed the information to Iraqi soldiers serving with the 36th Brigade, 9th Iraqi Army Division, who went to the site and seized the weapons at approximately 2 p.m. Sept 4. The cache included three .50-caliber machine guns, a rocket-propelled grenade, four tripods, 30 DSHKA 12.7 mm rounds, three spare barrels, a 2.75-inch rocket tube with explosives and an 180 mm projectile. An MND-B Explosives Ordnance Detachment destroyed the weapons and munitions in a controlled detonation.
“Local citizens, along with Iraqi Army soldiers and the National Police, continue to make a difference in combining their efforts to take these dangerous weapons off the streets,” said Maj. Mark Cheadle, spokesman, MND-B and the 4th Infantry Division. “They are united in their efforts to provide safe neighborhoods for their families and friends.”
MND-B Soldiers seize munitions caches in Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized munitions while conducting operations to increase security Sept. 3 and 4.
At approximately 9:30 a.m. Sept. 3, Soldiers serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, MND-B found a cache northwest of Baghdad. The munitions seized included six pounds of unidentified bulk explosives, a DSHKA gun mount, two DSHKA heavy machine guns, a rifle stock, two rifle barrels and an anti-aircraft gun mount.
While on patrol Sept. 4, Soldiers serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, attached to the 7th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, MND-B found a 155 mm round, a 120 mm round and two Italian manufactured anti-tank mines in the East Rashid district of Baghdad at approximately 12:30 a.m.
Two Warriors Achieve New Levels of Responsibility in Careers
By Maj. Al Hing, 2/25 SBCT PAO
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – One Warrior was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel and a fellow Warrior was promoted to chief warrant officer five, the highest level of warrant officer, in front of the headquarters of the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad on Camp Taji, northwest of Baghdad, Sept.1, 2008.
Col. Todd McCaffrey, a native of Hudson, Ohio, the 2nd SBCT commander, promoted Chaplain Mark Knox from major to lieutenant colonel.
“In the Army, Chaplain Knox exemplifies the best of all chaplains,” said McCaffrey. “The duty of care for the living, nurture the injured and honor the deceased – he does it all with the air of a quiet professional. The [special forces] tab on his shoulder of the quiet professionals is merely an indicator of this chaplain’s quiet professionalism.”
Warrior Transforms Minds, Bodies Into Steel
By Sgt. Whitney Houston, 2/25 SBCT
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The vibrant and multi-talented Soldier leads many Soldiers to reach their full potential through instruction and example.
It is his mission, as an Army combatives instructor for his battalion, to help his fellow Soldiers overcome the many physical and psychological barriers associated with these combat systems.
The combatant instructor who so diligently commits his time to guiding his fellow Soldiers is Staff Sgt. Lonny Steele, a native of Honolulu, who serves with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Brigade Support Battalion “Mongoose,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
Soldier-skateboarder Grinds in Iraq
By Sgt. Brad Willeford, 2/25 SBCT
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – A native of Port Huron, Mich., he has come a long way from his days of skate boarding, playing football and working at a local home improvement store. An avid skateboarder who loves to “grind,” his days of “ollies” and “tail drags” are now days of patrols and finding ways to assist the people of Iraq.
It is a challenge that Spc. Bradley Cook, Cook an infantryman serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, meets heads on.
When he joined the U.S. Army in January 2006, his request was quite simple – he desired to be an infantryman.
“When I told the recruiter what I wanted to do, he told me there is no doubt that I would be coming to Iraq,” said Cook.
Wolfhound Pup Fights Terrorist Activity
CAMP TAJI, Iraq - Known as “Havoc,” he is the youngest Soldier in his company and is affectionately known as the company “pup.”
Havoc’s real name is Pfc. Robert Hatala, and he is a reconnaissance scout assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warriors,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division- Baghdad,
Hatala joined the Army in July 2007, just three days after graduating high school in Ottawa, Ill. His goal, he said, is to do his part and better his life and joining the Army is a stepping stone for future aspirations. Ultimately, he plans to pursue a career in special weapons and tactics law enforcement after using his college benefits from the Army.
Warrior Soldiers Build Camaraderie Through Stress Relief
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Barbecue, karaoke, Baggo … all seem out of place in Iraq and perhaps feel somewhat strange to the digitally camouflaged Soldiers.
“Where you’re going 100 miles an hour, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you can appreciate when you can get some down time and relax,” said Maj. Silas Calhoun, of Washington D.C., who serves as a signal officer for 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. “There’s a stress breaker when you get to watch your battle buddies relax.”
Karaoke was the center point of the informal gathering, where a Playstation 2 was brought out and hooked up to a Soldier’s TV, allowing Soldiers to belt out “Hammer Time” by M.C. Hammer and match notes on “I Wanna Dance with Someone” by Whitney Houston, Soldiers responded with either hearty laughter or encouragement for the microphone holder. Some just danced and enjoyed the moment.
‘Operation Sapper Torch’ Denies Terrorist Concealment
By Sgt. Whitney Houston, 2/25 SBCT Public Affairs Office
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Engineers with the 66th Engineers Company, “Sappers,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad conducted a controlled burn on a route used by Iraqi security and coalition forces Aug. 26, 2008.
The flamethrower’s fire was to devour reeds which provided concealment for terrorists that have planted many improvised explosive devices along the route.
“What we’ve done essentially is a controlled burn to get rid of a bunch of reeds in a past enemy engagement area, voiding concealment,” said Capt. Joe Byrnes, native of Boulder, Colo., serving as the executive officer for the 66th Eng. Co., “Sappers,” 2nd SBCT, “Warrior,” 25th Inf. Div., MND-B, as he stood next to a crater in the road made from a previous IED explosion.
IA, MND-B Soldiers seize munitions in Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers continue seizing weapons caches in Baghdad Sept. 1 and 2.
Iraqi soldiers serving with the 2nd Battalion, 34th Brigade, 9th Iraq Army Division seized weapons in the Sadr City district of Baghdad at approximately 6:30 p.m. Sept 1. The munitions included a 160 mm high explosive mortar, a 82 mm high explosive mortar with fuse and a high explosive mortar with fuse.
Approximately two hours later, Soldiers serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 27st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, MND-B found a weapons cache northwest of Baghdad. The cache included 31 82 mm high explosive projectiles, a 82 mm white phosphorous projectile and 150 12.7 mm anti-personnel small arms projectiles.
Soldiers serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, MND-B seized a weapons cache in the East Rashid district of Baghdad at approximately 12:30 a.m. Sept 2. The cache contained 300 7.62 rounds, three fuses and a half a block of C4.
Local resident turns in munitions, MND-B Soldiers find cache
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – A local resident turned in munitions and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers discovered a weapons cache in Baghdad Aug. 28.
At approximately 5 p.m., a local resident brought six mortar rounds to an entry control point north of Baghdad. Soldiers serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, called in an explosive ordnance disposal team to assess the munitions. The EOD team identified the munitions as a 120 mm high-explosive mortar rounds.
At approximately 6 p.m., Soldiers serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 153rd Infantry Battalion, Quick Reaction Force, found a weapons cache in the West Rashid district of Baghdad. The cache consisted of 24 124 mm rounds without fuses. An EOD team conducted a controlled detonation and destroyed the munitions.
“Local residents continue to turn in these dangerous weapons as they strive to create safer neighborhoods for their Families and friends,” said Maj. Mark Cheadle, spokesman, Multi-Natinonal Division-Baghdad and the 4th Infantry Division. “Along with our Iraqi Security Forces partners, the Soldiers of Multi-National Division – Baghdad strive to provide them that safer environment.”
4/2 SBCT in Transition
Christian Hill with The Olympian has an article discussing some of the efforts by the 4/2 SBCT to help its soldiers adjust to life at home. Excerpt:
They've stopped fighting in Iraq and begun grappling with the memories and trauma of their 14-month deployment.In turn, the 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), is arming soldiers and families with information like never before so combat-related stress doesn't destroy relationships or lead to alcoholism or suicide. [...]
The leadership of an infantry battalion took another step. The officers invited a PTSD expert to speak to the soldiers and the families of the entire brigade after its return.
