Stryker cavalry regiment supports Afghan police, maintains security
KABUL, Afghanistan – Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Forward Operating Base Frontenac, provide security for Checkpoint 18, a paved bridge crossing over the Arghandab river and section of Route Bear in Uruzgan province.
Checkpoint 18 is the north-south route connecting Kandahar and Uruzgan provinces.
“In my opinion, if this checkpoint wasn’t here, the insurgents would blow up the bridge.” said 1st Lt. Andrew Murphree, the 2nd Platoon leader. “Here at Checkpoint 18 our mission is to provide security and a freedom of movement patrol on route bear as well as working in partnership with the Afghan National Police.”
“The local citizens enjoy the security the check point provides.” Murphree added. “Not only do we secure the bridge, but we secure the market, which for some is their only means of commerce.”
At Checkpoint 18, the mountains to their left and the river behind them aren’t the only things surrounding the soldiers from 2nd Platoon of Outlaw Troop. The insurgents are out there too.
The ever present danger highlights the need for a strong local security presence. 2nd Platoon, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, routinely works with the local offices of the Afghan National Police, conducting partnered patrols and training the officers to provide an independent security presence in anticipation of the day when there are no U.S. or coalition forces in the area.
“I have a lot of respect for the Afghan police at the northern checkpoint just up the road from here and I look forward to working with them in the future,” Murphree said.
(via DVIDS)
Afghan Army plans, executes mission to take fight to Taliban in Zabul
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan National Army and Hawk Company, 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment troopers recently conducted an air assault mission into three remote mountain villages in Zabul province.
The mission targeted insurgents in the villages of Tulak, Nowbad and Bulaig, all suspected of being areas heavily trafficked by insurgent forces.
“This was a joint operation with ANA as a part of increasing their training, their skills, abilities and confidence in areas that have never seen a [Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan] or coalition presence,” said 1st Lt. Karl Stadler, first platoon leader from Hawk Company.
“The ANA is at the point now where we are no longer training them on basic soldier skills,” Stadler said. “We are training their leadership on planning and coordinating, the whole process of what leaders need to know to start conducting their own missions.”
Afghan National Army forces were involved in all aspects of the operation from the planning to the execution. Afghan National Army intelligence teams were involved by interviewing villagers in an effort to obtain information for future operations.
As teams proceeded through each village, it became clear that most of the dwellings had long been abandoned. From the few remaining villagers that were found, soldiers were able to ascertain that families began leaving the area due to the lack of water.
Although only a handful of citizens were found, and soldiers did not uncover any signs of weapons or insurgent occupation – the mission was deemed a success by Afghan and coalition troops.
(via DVIDS)
1LT Daren M. Hidalgo
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
1st Lt. Daren M. Hidalgo, 24, of Waukesha, Wis., died Feb. 20 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
Newest vehicle checkpoint demonstrates improved highway security
SPIN BOLDAK, Afghanistan – A recently refurbished vehicle checkpoint along Highway 4 was open for business. The objective of the checkpoints is to combat the flow of illegal drugs, weapons or bomb-making material from entering Afghanistan.
Checkpoint 4 is located on the main supply route that connecting Pakistan to Kandahar City, passing through Spin Boldak. Afghan National Security Forces and International Security Assistance Force officials were present to celebrate the grand opening.
The ribbon cutting ceremony took place at the front gate of checkpoint 4. Afghan and American security forces were present to cut the ribbon to demonstrate solidarity. Soon after the ceremony, candy was thrown in the air, an Afghan tradition representing good luck.
Afghanistan Highway Police Capt. Haji Shahlohallab, commander of the vehicle checkpoint said Checkpoint 4 was originally built in 1980 and has gone through various renovations. One of the major improvements was placing Hesco barriers along the perimeter of the checkpoint to protect Afghan Highway Police from small-arms fire or vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices.
The vehicle checkpoint improvements began five months ago said Shahlohallab. He said he was glad to see the ANSF and ISAF working together.
U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Jermaine Trevillion, assigned to Kilo Troop, 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, based in Vilseck, Germany, said the ceremony represents the checkpoint is prepared to provide highway security.
Trevillion said he and his soldiers have built a relationship with the different Afghan forces that operate and secure the checkpoints along Highway 4. They visit different checkpoints on a regular basis and sometimes spend the night.
“We’ve built up a rapport with all the checkpoints along Highway 4,” said the Baltimore native.
“A couple of checkpoints have AHP a couple have ABP and one has Afghan National Army [operating them],” said Trevillion.
ABP Capt. Haji Janan, quick reaction force commander said it is good to see coalition forces working together with Afghan forces and looks forward to sharing intelligence with AHP.
Afghanistan Highway Police Capt. Haji Sahebjan said the last time he was at the checkpoint was seven years ago and it was in bad condition.
Sahebjan said he was glad the checkpoint was open again and that the priority of the checkpoints is to provide security for the Afghan people.
“I hope to work together with ISAF,” Sahebjan said. “So that we can stand together to solve problems and give peace and quiet to the people of Afghanistan.”
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Andrew Green, commanding officer of 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, based in Vilseck, Germany, was also in attendance for the ribbon cutting ceremony.
The commander told the group ISAF supports the Afghan forces and said he is proud to see the AHP working to help reduce insurgent activity along Highway 4.
“The presence of the Taliban in this area has been greatly reduced,” said Green.
After the ribbon cutting ceremony, everyone present had a traditional Afghan lunch that included lamb, flatbread, potatoes, rice and vegetables.
(via DVIDS)
Wolf Pack takes the fight to the Taliban
ZABUL, Afghanistan - While folks back home were still dreaming in their beds about Super Bowl Sunday, troopers from Hawk Company, 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and their Afghan National Army counterparts were preparing for an air assault mission into three remote mountain villages.
The mission targeted the villages of Tulak, Nowbad and Bulaig, all suspected of being areas heavily trafficked by insurgent forces.
It is 4 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 6, as the helicopters touch down in the desolate mountains. Icy winds kick up, increased by the rotor wash from the Chinooks, as the partnered soldiers swiftly exit the helicopters and wait. As the sun begins to rise, Hawk’s partnered patrols set out to cover the more than five kilometers of unknown terrain. Afghans led the way as each unit began clearing the compounds.
The teams slowly made their way across vast fields that at one time had been cultivated, but are now desolate and barren. The purpose of this mission was not only reconnaissance, but also to instruct the Afghan soldiers.
First platoon leader from Hawk company, 1st Lt. Karl Stadler, said, “ This was a joint operation with ANA as a part of increasing their training, their skills, abilities and confidence in areas that have never seen a GIRoA or coalition presence.”
“The ANA is at the point now where we are no longer training them on basic soldier skills,” Stadler said. “We are training their leadership on planning and coordinating, the whole process of what leaders need to know to start conducting their own missions.”
ANA forces were involved in all aspects of the operation from the planning to the execution. ANA intelligence teams were involved by interviewing villagers in an effort to obtain information for future operations.
As teams proceeded through each village, it became clear that most of the dwellings had long been abandoned. From the few remaining villagers that were found, soldiers were able to ascertain that families began leaving the area due to the lack of water.
Although only a handful of citizens were found, and soldiers did not uncover any signs of weapons or insurgent occupation, the mission was deemed a success. It provided the ANA an opportunity to establish connections and communications in an area where citizens had not seen government or coalition security forces in more than 10 years. Many villagers were happy to see the soldiers and stopped to shake their hands and talk about problems in the area.
Preparing the ANA to perform missions completely free from coalition participation is a stepping stone that brings Afghanistan closer to becoming a stronger more independent country.
(via DVIDS)
Brother pins new 2SCR sergeant in Afghanistan
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - The promotion to non-commissioned officer is a proud moment for any soldier. It is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
For Army Sgt. Sherrie Pratt, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment medical lab specialist, Feb. 4 was an especially proud day because her younger brother pinned the rank of sergeant on her at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan.
“She does incredible work saving lives,” said Airman 1st Class Lucas D.
Lacock, Pratt’s brother, who is a 451st Air Expeditionary Wing avionics technician. “I felt proud to be able to tack sergeant on my sister in a combat zone.”
Lt. Col. Michaele M. McCulley, Regimental Support Squadron commander, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, said Pratt embodies all of the characteristics of a leader and very deserving of the promotion.
Even though Pratt was promoted from corporal, a non-commissioned officer rank, she said she feels this was her true initiation into the NCO corps because her family could be there for it.
Both Orofino, Idaho natives, Pratt and Lacock, are deployed in Afghanistan, but it was not an easy feat to bring the two together for the promotion ceremony. Pratt, who serves in Zabul province, Afghanistan, had to travel to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. But her difficulty did not end there; after she landed she had to find where exactly on the large airfield her brother was so he could attend the ceremony.
In the end, the trouble was all worth it for Pratt.
“To have a loved one here just makes it even more memorable, I think,” said the newly promoted sergeant. “It’s not very often that you have someone you’re related to here with you in a combat zone.”
The promotion ceremony showed the extreme importance family plays in the military, said McCulley.
“Family is always important,” said McCulley. “Whether it’s your Army family, a bigger service family, or blood relative, holistic families make us successful as servicemembers and this ceremony really gives testimony to that.”
(via DVIDS)
ANA learn support services
ZABUL, Afghanistan - Recently, 21 soldiers from the Afghan National Army spent five days learning the skills they will need to help keep energy flowing to the peace-keeping efforts of their homeland. Troopers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regimental Support Squadron spent a week training their Afghan counterparts in the generator maintenance and repair skills that are crucial as the ANA continue its transformation into an independent force.
Soldiers were taught the basics of component recognition on generators ranging from the small 2 kilowatt gas powered models to the larger diesel models. Students were instructed in the proper procedures required to perform preventative maintenance checks and service on each generator model. As the week progressed, students moved into more complicated procedures such as how to disassemble and reassemble each component. As the students tore apart the generators, they were given a more detailed description of each piece as well as their function.
According to Sgt. Dern Lennard, one of the instructors, teaching the course was a very exciting and memorable experience.
“Many of the students learned very quickly and others needed a little extra attention,” Lennard said.
“This class gave the ANA soldiers the ability to maintain their own equipment,” Lennard said, “therefore making them more self-sufficient.”
Despite some obstacles such as not being able to obtain some of the parts for the older ANA generators and the language barrier, Lennard said that all in all the class was a rousing success. This class was one more milestone in creating a combat service support kandak and Afghan Army independence.
(via DVIDS)
Dragoons Welcome new NCOs to their ranks
ZABUL, Afghanistan- Perhaps one of the most important moments in the career of any enlisted soldier is when they become a noncommissioned officer.
For 31 troopers from FIRES Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, this moment was commemorated during an NCO induction ceremony Jan 17, at Forward Operating Base Lagman in Zabul province, Afghanistan.
“This ceremony is a tradition of the NCO Corps. It teaches, coaches and mentors these young NCOs, that they are the roots of the Non-commissioned Officer Corps,” said FIRES Command Sgt. Maj. Lorenzo Wallace. “They are assuming the great responsibility of taking care of the greatest resources our nation has given us – their sons and daughters.”
“This ceremony is a reminder to all NCOs that this responsibility cannot be neglected,” Wallace said.
During the ceremony inductees reaffirmed their commitment to the Corps by reciting the NCO Creed. Each soldier then stepped forward and received the saber of leadership from Regimental Command Sgt. Maj. Mark Morris. Placing the saber against their right shoulder, each new NCO looks toward the soldiers standing nearby and takes a step forward symbolizing the assumption of their new role and responsibilities.
According to Wallace, this ceremony immortalizes great things to come for these young leaders of tomorrow.
“For some of these inductees it’s a beginning point to be the future Sergeant Major of the Army,” Wallace said. Whatever career paths these individuals choose Wallace wishes them all the best in their new roles as the leaders of tomorrow.
“I salute these young NCOs because of the challenges that they will face in the future,” he said.
(via DVIDS)
Training saves life of Soldier after grenade blast
MULTI-NATIONAL BASE TARIN KOT Afghanistan – U.S. Army 1st Lt. Thomas Lorenson considers himself lucky to be alive. The Seattle native from Apache Company, 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment survived a close-quarters grenade blast Jan. 13 in northern Uruzgan province in southern Afghanistan.
Apache Company soldiers were conducting a routine patrol through the Nyazi Valley that morning, looking for an improvised explosive device facilitator who was suspected to have moved back into the area.
During the search of a compound, Lorenson encountered an Afghan man who pulled a grenade from beneath a pile of blankets on the floor, armed it and rolled it in his direction.
“Ultimately I was just kind of paralyzed,” he recalled. “I pulled the trigger just out of training I guess, and lifted my arm up just to shield my face right before it went off.”
The grenade detonated, sending shrapnel tearing through the left side of Lorenson’s face and body. The man who threw it died as a result of his wounds in the attack.
“I didn’t even know I was really hurt until I started seeing my kit [body armor] was covered with blood,” he said.
2nd SCR Coming Home Early
Stryker unit's early arrival in Afghanistan means Germany brigade coming home early - Stars & Stripes
VILSECK, Germany — The next U.S. Stryker brigade to deploy to southern Afghanistan will be in place ahead of fighting season, allowing for the early return of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, the unit’s commander said Tuesday.
“Yes, we are coming home early,” Col. James Blackburn said to smiles and applause. “First, 2nd and 3rd Squadrons will be home three weeks ahead of schedule, and 4th Squadron and the Regimental Support Squadron will be a home a week early.”
Speaking at a town hall meeting Tuesday, Blackburn said that the 1st Stryker Brigade, 25th Infantry Division out of Fort Wainwright, Alaska, needs to be in place ahead of the summer fighting season.
Stryker Stories at DVIDS
Recent stories, sorted by brigade.
1/25 SBCT
- DLA Pacific supports Stryker brigade combat team in Alaska
- Native American event connects past and future
- Soldiers volunteer during holiday season
- Alaska Soldiers gear up for ship out
- War Hero visits Fort Wainwright Soldiers
2nd SCR
- Have Bible Will Travel (the 2SCR Chaplains Corps)
- ANP Graduate first Female officers from PTC
- ANA Academy Graduates first Class Taught by ANA
- Cougars Target Education
- Petraeus Visits Dragoons in Zabul
- Dragoons for Life, RCSM visits with 2SCR’s Wounded Warriors
- Dragoons Welcome new NCOs to their ranks
- Training saves life of Soldier after grenade blast
SGT Eric M. Nettleton
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Sgt. Eric M. Nettleton, 26, of Wichita, Kan., died Jan. 5, in Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan of wounds suffered in Dehjawz-e Hasanzay when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
Recent DVIDS Stories
2nd SCR
- 2SCR Legal Office Mentors local Afghan Legal Eagles
- 2SCR Trooper Brings Fellow Soldiers Closer to Home
- 2SCR Legal Office Mentors local Afghan Legal Eagles
1/25 SBCT
- Female Soldiers attempt to close gap between U.S. and foreign cultures
- NCO mentors Soldiers, athletes
- Soldiers Trek Alaska's Granite Tors
- DVIDS - News - Army Chief of Staff visits Fort Wainwright
- 4-2 SBCT Soldier receives Purple Heart
4/2 SBCT
PFC Conrado D. Javier Jr.
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. Conrado D. Javier Jr., 19, of Marina, Calif., died Dec. 19 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
Recent DVIDS Stryker Stories
Provided below are links to recent stories from DVIDS featuring the Stryker Brigades.
2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment
- Dragoons get lesson in Spiritual Survival
- Sabers Gear up Children for School
- ANP recruits learn first aid from Stryker medic
- Afghan Army doctor, stryker medics help civilians in Uruzgan
- Afghan legal representatives train alongside coalition attorneys
1/25 SBCT
- Young Soldiers strive for excellence during team leader course
- Actor Forgoes promising career to serve his country
- Soldiers expand their knowledge with help from local Police Department
4/2 SBCT
2/25 SBCT
- ‘Ironhorse Strong Soldiers’ recognized for excellence
- First 100 days show challenges met with success
3/2 SBCT
SPC Kelly J. Mixon
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Spc. Kelly J. Mixon, 23, of Yulee, Fla., died Dec. 8 in Balkh province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when an insurgent attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
SGT James A. Ayube, II
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Sgt. James A. Ayube, II, 25, of Salem, Mass., died Dec. 8 in Balkh province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when an insurgent attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
SGT David S. Robinson
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Sgt. David S. Robinson, 25, of Fort Smith, Ark., died Nov. 20 in Qalat, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered in a non-combat related accident. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
Tanks to Join Afghanistan Fight
Tanks to Afghanistan, a Soldier Writes - NYTimes.com
The Army’s Mobile Gun System Stryker variant (MGS, see above) is the closest thing the Army has to a tank at its disposal in Afghanistan. This weapon system is rarely discussed when the issue of Stryker Brigade performance is on the table. In fact, I imagine few who have followed the Stryker’s progression in the global war on terror would even recognize the 105 mm main gun turret that rotates on an amplified Stryker hull…but I guarantee the Afghans in Kandahar province know it very well.However, as I say, a battle tank is different.
Driving a Stryker or MRAP down the Afghan highway is much like driving a bus down a crowded street. As Afghan locals become more aware of what behaviors they can get away with before soldiers will respond with their restricted levels of force, it becomes difficult to keep both soldiers and Afghan civilians safe during our movements. But tanks elicit a far different response from the average Afghan.
Afghan police taking the lead in Uruzgan province
Story by Sgt. Jes Smith
KABUL, Afghanistan – It’s late afternoon in October at an Afghan National Police checkpoint in Uruzgan province and members of 1st Platoon, Bull Troop, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are being led on a combined patrol by their Afghan partners.
The soldiers of 1st Platoon are deployed out of Vilseck, Germany, for a 12-month tour to partner with and mentor Afghan police in the city of Tarin Kot.
“We like to let the ANP pick the route and lead the way,” said 1st Lt. Jeremy Gilbert, platoon leader for 1st Platoon. “We’re just here to help them.”
Letting the national police lead missions is a key part of 1st Platoon’s goal, which is to get the ANP fully capable of operating as a police force without International Security Assistance Force assistance.
1-2 SCR MGS Platoon conducts zeroing operations
Story by Sgt. Jes Smith, 16th MPAD
FORWARD OPERATING BASE HADRIAN - In the combat zone you don’t have conventional Army-weapons ranges, despite that soldiers of the Mobile Gun System Platoon, 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, from Vilseck Germany, fired and zeroed their Stryker Mobile Gun Systems Sept. 23, at Forward Operating Base Hadrian, Afghanistan.
“The range is a piece of land with a mountain as a back drop,” said Staff Sgt. Donald Phillips, the master gunner for 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, “Pretty much a natural range.”
The Stryker Mobile Gun System is the anti-tank version of the Strykers and it is equipped with a 105 mm main gun, the same gun originally mounted on the M1 Abrams tank, and it is designed to bring accurate-heavy-firepower to light-armored- units.
“Accuracy is key,” said 2nd Lt. Bradley Y. Winsted II, the platoon leader for the MGS platoon. “The last thing we want is any unneeded casualties or and unneeded damage to property.”
Unsung Dragoon Heroes
By: 2nd Lt. Michael Deem
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – Back home the air is crisp and the leaves are beginning to change. As people break out their sweatshirts and fall sets in, so does America’s favorite time of year.
Fall brings football and anyone who follows the game closely understands that the unsung heroes of any successful football team are the offensive linemen. They take the field every week and spend their time in the trenches. They leave the field muddied and tired and seldom receive accolades. Their stats and names seldom make the sports section or ESPN’s highlight reel.
However without their contribution, the running backs and quarterbacks couldn’t stand in the limelight. It is all a team effort.
Similarly, the members of the Regimental Support Squadron, Muleskinners, are the linemen of the Regiment and the Convoy Security Teams are the defensive tackles protecting the supplies the regiment needs to fight and win. As in football, any combat oriented organization has to do three things well; work together as a team, practice, and execute as trained.
Coalition and Afghan Border Police living on the edge
KABUL, Afghanistan – On the edge of the Afghanistan/Pakistan border at the end of Highway Four in the city of Wesh, in southern Afghanistan, International Security Assistance Force and Afghan Border Police work to deter insurgents.
Each week they spend three to four days at the Wesh Border Crossing Point, collecting census information and biometrics, including finger prints, retinal scans and identification photos from Afghans returning from Pakistan.
Collecting biometrics supports the counterinsurgency strategy by helping to separate insurgents from the population. Finger prints found on bombs, or other insurgent materials, are run against an ever growing database resulting in a suspect possibly being found in either the database or during the actual biometrics collection process itself.
Service members, Civilians conquer toughest 10 Miles in Afghanistan
Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson
ZABUL, Afghanistan- More than 90 U.S. and Romanian service members, along with civilians, from Combined Team Zabul signed up to test their running prowess during the Forward Operating Base Lagman Army 10-Miler Shadow run Sunday, Oct. 24. Troopers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and their fellow runners pitted their strength and stamina in a race that can arguably be described as one of the toughest courses in Afghanistan.
The FOB Lagman run was one of six official shadow runs held throughout Afghanistan. The main Army 10 miler is held along the streets of Washington D.C. and is consider the largest annual race of its length. Participation in the Shadow run was not for the faint of heart however and presented each runner with some difficult terrain to navigate.
In addition to cold and windy weather conditions, runners had to fight the altitude running at 5,300 feet above sea level. The course was a tough and rocky one which included a hill with a 23 percent grade competitors had to tackle not once but six times in both directions.
“It was probably the most difficult 10 miles I have run in my life,” said a breathless Sgt. David Mecham, the first U.S. soldier to cross the finish line. “In my life, I have run about 30 or 40 of these races and this was the toughest one so far.”
Legion Academy trains first class
Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson
Zabul, Afghanistan- Troopers from 3rd Squadron,2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment gathered alongside their partners from the Afghan National Army Thursday, October 21 at Combat Outpost Azizzullah to honor the first graduating class of the Legion Academy.
The Legion Academy is a two-week long course designed to familiarize ANA Soldiers with the basic soldiering skills and tactics used by their Coalition counterparts.
“We started with the basics like weapons maintenance, components and capabilities,” said the Academy Commandant Staff Sgt. Ildefonso Perez. “Then moved into individual, buddy team, squad and unit movement techniques.”
Perez said students also practiced room and building clearing techniques as well as the more mundane administrative tasks such as range operations.
Coalition and Afghan Border Police Living on the Edge
Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class
WESH, Afghanistan - On the edge of the Afghanistan/Pakistan border, ISAF and Afghan Border Police work to deter insurgents with high-tech technology and low-tech police work.
These soldiers and ABP work in one of Afghanistan busiest border crossing, the end of highway four in the city of Wesh whose life blood is supporting truckers and other motorists as they cross. For the soldiers of Mad Dog Second Platoon, Fourth Squadron, Second Stryker Combat Regiment, from Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Germany now based in Forward Operating Base Spin Buldak, the days are long with few chances to sleep and days off are an unknown luxury as they work to complete what is an important but monotonous job.
"It's a very monotonous thing and it's hard to see the fruits of our labor. We do good work but you don't see that," said 2nd Lt. James Herbert Fortune, 23, 2nd platoon commander from Fredericksburg, Va. "If we do a good job, we aren't going to see weapons coming through the border and we aren't going to see Taliban. They are going to be afraid to come through because they know we are going to catch them with the x-ray scan or biometrics."
DCAMP helps return Soldiers to the fight
Story by Spc. Jennifer Spradlin
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - Sgt. Danli Samonte has just completed another session of physical therapy and waits patiently while his right arm is iced. Five days ago he was part of a mounted patrol with C Battery, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Combat Regiment, when his vehicle struck a 200-pound improvised explosive device planted in the road.
Samonte was taken to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, where medical personnel initially believed he might have fractured his arm. Later it was determined that his injury was a muscle strain, and he was enrolled in a wounded warrior project on KAF, also known as the Dragoon Case Management Program.
The Dragoon Case Management Program, known as DCAMP, treats Soldiers who have battle and disease non-battle injuries (related to injuries sustained during physical fitness or job related accidents) that do not require evacuation from the combat theater. These soldiers can be rehabilitated by the DCAMP and returned to their units.
SPC Steven L. Dupont
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Spc. Steven L. Dupont, 20, of Lafayette, La., died Oct. 24 at Rangrizan, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
ANA Graduates First NCO Improvement Class
ZABUL, Afghanistan- Thursday, Oct. 7 was graduation day at Camp Eagle near Forward Operating Base Apache in Zabul Province. The Afghan National Army celebrated the graduation of 23 non-commissioned officers from the first ANA NCO Improvement Course.
The two-week long course was taught by 2d Stryker Calvary Regiment Soldiers, focusing on tactics and patrol techniques. These are skills will help them survive as soldiers in Afghanistan. .
The class covered escalation of force, rules of engagement, troop leading procedures, first aid and mounted/ dismounted movement techniques. In addition, students were taught how to react to an Improvised explosive device as well as basic recognition of IEDs.
“The program was designed to build on our partnership with the ANA,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Russell, the senior instructor. “It was designed to get them up to speed on tactics.”
“It will help them on patrols with American forces and enable them to continue to build on their security and protect the civilians of Afghanistan,” he said.
PFC Cody A. Board
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. Cody A. Board, 19, of McKinney, Texas, died Oct. 4 at Mirwais, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
SPC Joseph T. Prentler
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Spc. Joseph T. Prentler, 20, of Fenwick, Mich., died Oct. 4 in Mama Kariz, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his military vehicle using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
MAJ Paul D. Carron
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom
Maj. Paul D. Carron, 33, of Mo. died Sept. 18 at Qalat, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained in a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
Dragoons Remember 9/11
By Sgt. Jerry Wilson, 2SCR Public Affairs
ZABUL, Afghanistan- For most Americans Sept. 11, 2001, has become a date that will be forever etched into their minds. The anniversary of that tragic day has become a time of reflection for counting their blessings and remembering those heroes that gave their lives on that fateful day.
Dragoons of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and other members of Combined Team Zabul marked the anniversary of that sobering event with a prayer breakfast and remembrance service Saturday at Forward Operating Base Lagman in Qalat, Afghanistan.
“Today we join with our fellow Americans and Allies around the country and the globe,” said Regimental Chaplain, Maj. Vaioa Leau. “United in purpose, we gather to remember the victims of the 9/11 horrific terrorist attacks against the United States.”
“We gather to remember those in and out of uniform,” he continued, “who continue to fight against those who would harm us for no other reason than that we stand as a bright shining light of freedom in the world.” Leau continued discussing how Americans reacted to the attack.
Getting Caught Up
Here's a long list of articles that have been published during our hiatus.
Last combat brigade to leave Iraq makes symbolic final convoy - DVIDS
Iraq generation -- from the playground to the battlefield and back - DVIDS
Iraqi Army general brings a New Dawn to Diyala - DVIDS
Security shura in southern Afghanistan - DVIDS
Dragoon Diversity - DVIDS
Dragoons Help Afghan Air Force - DVIDS
Army launches Stryker maintenance specialty - Army Times
Last of the 5th Stryker brigade’s fallen soldiers is honored - The News Tribune
JBLM Soldiers demonstrate equipment changes; values remain the same - DVIDS
No Ordinary Trip to the Store - DVIDS
1/25 SBCT Conducts Full-Spectrum Exercise - DVIDS
PFC Justin B. Shoecraft
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. Justin B. Shoecraft, 28, of Elkhart, Ind., died Aug. 24 at Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device at Kakarak, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
Dragoons Save Local Businessman’s Cargo
Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson
ZABUL, Afghanistan- It was shaping up to be a routine Tuesday morning, August 10th, for the Regimental Personal Security Detail of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. It was convoy trip with the regimental commander and command sergeant major to survey the damage caused by recent flooding to several bridges within the Zabul province. As the convoy approached bridge 1018 they encountered a rather interesting situation.
A local truck driver was transporting a load of almonds to market. While attempting to take the bypass road near bridge 1018, the truck hit a soft patch of dirt and overturned on the embankment. As the convoy pulled to a halt, several Afghan locals could be seen carrying large sacks of almonds up from the ravine to another truck waiting nearby. That was when the Dragoons quickly assessed the situation and decided to lend a hand.
“It was the perfect opportunity for us to engage with the population,” said the 2SCR Regimental Command Sgt. Major Mark Morris, “showing them that our mission is about helping people that is what coalition forces are here to do.”
Governor Inspects Damage in Shin Kay
Story by Spc. Audrey Glynn and Sgt. Gerald Wilson
ZABUL, Afghanistan- Governor of the Zabul province, Al-Haj Mohammed Ashraf Naseri, stood alongside representatives from 2nd Squadron , 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, the Provincial Reconstruction Team, and coalition partners from Combined Team Zabul Friday, August 6, as they walked through the small village of Shinkay to survey the damage caused by the recent storm.
According to local government reports, hundreds of citizens have been adversely affected by the flood waters. The effects of the recent storm could be seen most at the Shinkay Bazaar. The bazaar is an economic lifeline to the district. Many people from outlying villages gather at the bazaar to conduct business. The most damage could be found on the north side of the bazaar where entire sections of walls had collapsed. Approximately 70 percent of the shopkeepers reported losing some or all of their merchandise. Since most shopkeepers are renting space at the bazaar, this loss will make it difficult for them to pay their rent and support their families. Recognizing the needs of its people, the Afghan Government is working to provide the much needed supplies for the relief effort.
Medics Lead a Dog’s Life
Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson
ZABUL, Afghanistan- Medics from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment received some paws on training Thursday, Aug. 8 at Forward Operating Base Lagman from some very unusual instruction. The troopers received a class on how to administer basic first aid to the working dogs that help provide security for soldiers around the FOB.
Working dogs are used around the FOBs to detect explosives and other contraband that someone may try to sneak onto the post. Dogs are used to search vehicles and parcels coming onto the FOB since they are able to find things that could be overlooked by the human eye. This service is run by a civilian security firm that employs several highly trained professionals who have many years of experience working in a variety of canine units. Canine units are a critical part of stemming the traffic of explosives and illegal drugs, not only on posts, but in and around the province. These four-legged heroes provide a vital service in the ongoing mission to bring security to the people of Afghanistan.
PFC John E. Andrade
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. John E. Andrade, 19, of San Antonio, Texas, died Aug. 7 at DE Khak Chupan Turah, Kandahar, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
PFC Paul O. Cuzzupe
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. Paul O. Cuzzupe, 23, of Plant City, Fla., died Aug. 8 in Akhtar-Mohammad-Khan, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
Dragoons Train first ANP Graduates
Story by Sgt. Gerald WilsonSmall RSS IconAlerts Icon
ZABUL, Afghanistan- Dragoons from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment were alongside their partners from the Afghan National Police Saturday, July 31, at the ANP Training Center in Qalat to celebrate a historic event. The first graduation of ANP officers trained by coalition forces at the new facility. Forty-five new ANP officers were sworn in after an extensive six-week training course and prepared to take their place providing security for the people of Afghanistan.
Military police officers from FIRES Squadron of 2SCR assumed the responsibility for training the ANP cadets three weeks into the program. The Dragoons replaced the outgoing instructors from 82nd Airborne’s Task Force Fury.
“We came in taking over for the 82nd,” said 1st Lt. Joshua Frye, an instructor at the Police Training Center. “They did a good job preparing everything for us.”
Frye explained that 2SCR instructors worked alongside instructors from the Ministry of the Interior, training the cadets for their law enforcement duties.
Long List of Recent Stryker Articles
Provided below are links to a number of recent Stryker related stories, photos and videos from DVIDS.
2/25 SBCT
- Task Force Marne Commander, CSM welcome Golden Dragons
- ˜Golden Dragons begin meeting with local leaders
- Hawaii Strykers build relationship in Iraq
- FOB Warhorse Transfer Ceremony [Photos]
- Hawaii unit arrives to Iraq to advise, assist
- 2SBCT, 25th ID Assuming Contingency Operations [Video]
2nd SCR
3/2 SBCT
- FOB Warhorse Transfer Ceremony [Photos]
4/2 SBCT
- Iraqi Army medics and local doctors lead medical mission in Abu Ghraib
- Abu Ghraib Medical Operation [Video]
- Humanitarian Assistance Drop [Video]
- US, Iraqi Security Forces open refurbished school
1LT Robert N. Bennedsen
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
1st Lt. Robert N. Bennedsen, 25, of Vashon, Wash., died July 18 at Qalat, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd [Stryker] Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Related:
Soldier from Vashon Island killed - The News Tribune
Vashon Island soldier remembered as a hero - KOMO News
Sabers Take the Lead in Spin Boldak
ZABUL, Afghanistan – The Sabers of 4th Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment became the first Squadron in the Regiment to assume responsibility of an area of operation in southern Afghanistan. During a transfer of authority ceremony held, June 28, the Sabers replaced 8th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment as the commanding unit at Forward Operating Base Spin Boldak, Afghanistan, near the Pakistan border.
The transfer of authority from Task Force Saint to the Saber Squadron was marked with the Cavalry tradition of passing the command saber from the outgoing commander to the incoming.
“With the passing of the command saber,” said Lt. Col Andrew Green, the 4th Squadron, 2SCR commander, “comes the responsibility of sharing the pledge to work alongside our Afghan partners for all the people of the region.”
“I promise you today,” he continued, “that the Saber Squadron will continue the successful practices of Task Force Saint, and endeavor to find new areas in which to increase the capacity and effectiveness of our ANSF and GIRoA partners within this district.”
“Saber Soldiers are on the ground and ready to write the next chapter of our operations here.”
The Sabers are deployed to Afghanistan for 12-months in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During their deployment, they will continue to provide security and stability for the people of Afghanistan.
(via Digital Video & Imagery Distribution System)
The Cavalry Is Here [Video]
Package about 4th Squadron 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment assumes responsibility for area of operations during a transfer of authority ceremony. The 4/2 SCR took over for 8th Squadron 1st Cavalry Regiment out of Ft. Lewis, WA. Sound bites include Lt. Col. Andrew Green. Produced by Spc. Audrey Glynn.
Dragoons Ring in Independence Day With Uncasing of Colors
Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson
ZABUL, Afghanistan – The Dragoons of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment celebrated this Fourth of July with the official uncasing of the Regimental colors at FOB Lagman in Zabul Afghanistan. This historic event marks the 2SCR’s official assumption of command of Task Force Dragoons and Combined Team Zabul.
In a stirring speech that would rival the immortal words of Patton himself, Col. James Blackburn, the 75th Regimental Commander put an inspirational perspective on the unit’s mission as he addressed the Troops.
“The questions, if not us then who? If not now then when? Have been asked for a very long time,” he said. “Well I will tell you as we stand here on the Fourth of July, our forefathers already have answered those questions for us.”
“It is you and it is now!” Blackburn continued. “There is no question this war will be won this year, and this war will be won by Soldiers of this Regiment for the Afghan people.”
“It will be won right here in southern Afghanistan where it started,” he said. ‘The Taliban’s cradle will become it’s grave, here in southern Afghanistan, as the Soldiers of this fantastic Regiment write the next chapter of our history.”
Blackburn stressed the magnitude of the role each Soldier will play in the Dragoon’s mission in Afghanistan.
“You are part of something much larger than yourself,” he said. “We are all part of something much larger than just this Regiment, but this Regiment will be pivotal in the victory here.”
The colonel closed by urging each Soldier to remain dedicated and focused and not lose sight of the Regiment’s ultimate goal, providing for the security of the Afghan people.
“There is no time to stop and wait for somebody to build a better bunk,” he said. “To wait for somebody to create the best FOB.”
“There is a very, very narrow window of opportunity we will exploit in short order.”
“Thank all of you for what you’ve done to this point and thank you more importantly for what you are about to do in the future.”
We are not just Dragoons for a three year term PCS tour. We are Dragoons for life! The colors are the symbol of the unit. Un-casing the colors mean that 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment, the oldest continuously serving regiment in the United States Army, are here and ready for operations in Afghanistan. Toujour Pret.
(via Digital Video & Imagery Distribution System)
2nd SCR Begins Afghanistan Mission With Partnership and Professionalism
Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson
ZABUL, Afghanistan –Partnership and professionalism was the theme Wednesday night June 30 as key leaders from U.S., Romanian, Lithuanian, and Afghan Forces gathered at Forward Operations Base Lagman for a Transfer of Authority dinner. The dinner was held to honor the partners which compose Combined Team Zabul by outgoing 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division that made up Task Force Fury and to welcome the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment as it assumes command leadership of CTZ.
Task Force Fury Command Sgt. Major Mark Sturdevant said that the road that lies before 2SCR will be a difficult and often times a perilous one, but stressed how important the struggles are for the people of Zabul to understand and feel what freedom is like for those who have it.
Sturdevant also said there is light at the end of that long dark road with the people that make up Combined Team Zabul. Task Force Fury Commander Col. Brian Drinkwine continued the evening by reflecting on his time in command and the cooperation he shared with his coalition brethren.
“When we talk about Zabul,” he said. “We talk about true partnership, integration and true brother and sisterhood.”
“For the paratroopers and Soldiers that I command,” he continued. “It has been a great honor to work with and learn from my Afghan brothers how to take care of the people and do the mission right.”
Army Today: Stryker Ride [Video]
Story on a Stryker Squadron that patrols the Afghan and Pakistan border. Produced by Gail McCabe.
3rd Army Assists 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment [Video]
Package of the 3rd Army as they help the war fighters by hooking them up with the right people and equipment to get units where they need to go to sustain the fight. Sound bites include Sgt. 1st Class James Rivera, Maj. David Furr and Petty Officer 3rd Class Craig Ewer. Produced by Staff Sgt. Anaidy Claudio.
2nd SCR Ships Strykers
Story by Sgt. David Nunn
SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Third Army's support to the Buildup of Afghanistan, and the subsequent pulling of equipment and materiel out of Iraq, is an enormous logistical operation that is the largest known in modern military history. This operation runs 24/7 and incorporates a network spanning Third Army's 22-country area of responsibility supported by a coalition of multiple countries, civilian contractors, and servicemembers of all the U.S. Armed Forces.
This cooperation is evident at every step of the way, from the closing of Forward Operating Bases across Iraq since the beginning of the Responsible Drawdown in 2009, to land, air, and sea distribution networks into Afghanistan.
At an airbase in Southwest Asia, just one step in this highly organized and adaptive operation, the flight-line is alive with activity in the pre-dawn hours of June 1st, 2010. Massive C-17 Globemasters, arrayed across wind-blasted asphalt still hot to the touch from the day before, are readied by their crews for flights into Afghanistan. As the awakening roar of their engines dominates the air, a line of Stryker vehicles emerges from the staging lots nearby; their headlights pushing back the desert night.
Third Army Moving Strykers to Afghanistan [Photos]
A Stryker vehicle awaits transportation to war-fighters in Afghanistan, in an airfield staging area in southwest Asia. Third Army assists units mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in moving the war-fighter's equipment and materiel, including Stryker vehicles. This mission critical equipment is being rapidly deployed into Afghanistan by the leader of logistical operations throughout the Central Command area of responsibility in contingency operations.
(via DVIDS)
Deployment Ceremony for 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment
B-Roll of the Deployment Ceremony for 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. Scenes include Soldiers in formation, the casing of the colors and Soldiers listening to speeches. Part 1 of 5.
Related:
Deployment Ceremony for 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Part 2
Deployment Ceremony for 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Part 3
Deployment Ceremony for 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Part 4
Deployment Ceremony for 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Part 5
Video: Key Leader Engagement
B-roll of 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 4th Squadron conducting a Key Leader Engagement training exercise in preparation for an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan. Produced by Ronald Miller.
2nd SCR Training Videos
DVIDS has three new videos featuring soldiers from the 2nd SCR training for their upcoming deployment to Afghanistan.
2 SCR Key Leader Engagement Scenario
MGS helps Infantry stay on target
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Grafenwohr, Germany – Heavy snowfall and harsh winds around the Grafenwoehr Training Area of the Joint Multinational Training Command didn’t stop Troopers from 1st Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment from training for their deployment to Afghanistan. During this training, infantry squads incorporated the use of the new M1128 Stryker Mobile Gun System into their latest live-fire operation Tuesday, February 2.
“First Squadron has incorporated the MGS system along with the Infantry carrier vehicle,” said Staff Sgt. Donald Phillips, the 2SCR Regimental Master Gunner. “This is the first time they have done this type of training since receiving the new system in December.”
The MGS is a 105 mm cannon mounted on the Stryker vehicle variant. It is the same cannon that was found on the M1 Abrams tank. According to Phillips, the MGS brings the firepower of a tank to an infantry fight.
Phillips said the MGS is designed for use in urban terrain and its central purpose is for Infantry support.
“It can be used to take out troops out in mass using a canister round,” he said, “or knock holes in buildings to provide a passage for Troops to move through.”
“It can also take on light-armored vehicles that the Infantry may encounter,” he said. “This is the first time the Soldiers have had the chance to really feel the effects of that 105mm gun.”
During the exercise Infantry squads conducted assaults and room clearing procedures while the MGS provided artillery support, engaging simulated enemy vehicles that were preparing to ambush them. This live-fire exercise is part of 2SCR’s ongoing preparation for the Afghanistan deployment.
[Editor's Note: The gun on the MGS is indeed the Abrams gun (105MM - as on the M-60) but it was the original gun on the M1A1 model. Later models have the 120mm M256 smoothbore gun developed by Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH of Germany.]
Once a Dragoon always a Dragoon
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany – In 1986 a young private, fresh out of training, reported to his first duty station in Bamberg, Germany. He was assigned to the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment and spent most of his days patrolling the German and Czech borders. Now, 24 years later, Sergeant Major Michael Fox's career came full circle to bring him back to 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
Fox is happy to be back where it all started for him. Reporting to 2SCR on January 28th 2010 was like coming home for the newly promoted Sergeant Major.
“It’s great! Since I left the first time, I always said that I wanted to come back.”
As time and his career progressed, Fox began to feel like rejoining the regiment was an impossible goal. His various duties took him all over Europe, the United States, and Korea. Now with 12 permanent changes of station under his belt, he hopes to settle down and eventually retire as a part of 2SCR.
2nd SCR Tests MGS
New article from Stars & Stripes.
GRAFENWÖHR, Germany — The 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment will have a powerful new weapon when it deploys to Afghanistan next summer.On Thursday, 2nd Cav soldiers put the M1128 Mobile Gun System vehicle to the test at Grafenwöhr Training Area, firing rounds into range targets representing Taliban compounds.
The MGS — as it’s known — can fire four types of ammunition, depending on the situation, to take out walls, bunkers, vehicles or enemy ground forces.
Sabers Take Time Out for Food, Friends and Fun
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany – Troopers of 4th Squadron 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, known as the Sabers spent Wednesday Nov. 18th celebrating their annual Saber day. Saber day is an organizational Day where all the Soldiers get together with their families and challenge each other to a variety of sporting events. Among the events on this year’s agenda were: shooting, volleyball, flag football, combative and a 3 on 3 basketballs all tournament.
This year the Sabers were joined by their German partnership unit Aufklaerungsbataillon 8. Battalion 8 began their partnership with the Sabers in June so this was one of the first opportunities for Soldiers to get together.
“These events are very important for camaraderie,” said German 1st Lt. Frank Micklisch. Ít gives us a chance to get to know each other and have some fun together.”
Battalion 8 fielded teams in the volleyball challenge, football and shooting.
A barbeque was held at the motor pool after the morning festivities. Saber Squadron Commander Lt. Col. Christopher Boyle was quite happy with the overall success of the event and the participation of the German Soldiers.
“We are once again pleased with how Saber Day turned out,” Boyle said. “We had great participation from our Troopers, Saber Families and the Aufklaerungsbataillon 8; our German military partner unit and fortunately the weather cooperated for as long as we needed it to."
As the final results of the winners from the day’s events were tallied, it appeared that Mad Dog and Headquarters Headquarters Troop were the champions of the day, both taking home first place in two events.
Mad Dog scored top honors in the flag football tournament as well as the American Gladiator competition. Headquarters Headquarters Troop took home the gold in the tug of war and the shooting competition. The 3 on 3 basketball tournament was won by Lightning Troop. Killer Troop were the stars of the Rockband finals and volleyball was dominated by the German team.
Sponsorship is Key Watchword
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany – Before they headed off for Thanksgiving with their families and friends, thousands of Troopers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment gathered Wednesday morning Nov. 25 to hear from the 75th Commander of the Regiment, Col. James Blackburn and participate in a traditional run known as the Troop/Company/Battery Challenge.
The challenge was a tradition started last year. Instead of the customary Regimental Run, each Troop, Company or Battery competes for the best time and the chance to when the coveted Challenge Trophy.
Sponsorship and taking care of your fellow Dragoons was the central focus of Blackburn’s address to the masses.
“In the next few months, 800 new Soldiers, new Dragoons will join us,” Blackburn said. “800 of your newest and closest friends. I want to talk about sponsorship for a moment.”
He went on stress the importance of being a good sponsor and described it like a fine meal.
“At the Regimental level it’s the meat and potatoes,” he said pointing out that most of the basic information any newcomer needs can be found on the 2SCR website under the newcomers tab.
Dragoons go for the Record
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany – Thousands of Dragoons gathered alongside their families in the wee hours of the morning Wednesday November 18 in front of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regimental Headquarters on a mission. Their objective was to set a new world’s record for the largest yellow ribbon run ever conducted by service members on a military installation by participating in the first-ever Rock & Roll Marathon Series Yellow Ribbon Run.
“Today is a day of celebration,” said Troy Mason, sponsorship and advertising manager for USAG Grafenwoehr and Garmisch. “A celebration of our returning troops, and also pays tribute to our Soldiers who have been deployed and are preparing to deploy.”
The event was produced by MWR USAG Grafenwoehr and the nonprofit organization The Warriors Tours. The Warrior Tours links the men and women of the US Armed Forces with the American people through physical fitness by teaming up stateside events with US military bases worldwide. The organization connects US service men and women with their friends and families through video, text, and images that are posted on The Warrior Tours website and broadcast at domestic sporting events.
The Warrior Tours founder Robi Powers, announced the momentous occasion. . Powers has been referred to as America's Voice of Running since 1988. He is a former U.S. National Team Athlete,Olympic Teams Coach and former US Armed Forces Sports Program Athlete. Powers was also a Soldier himself having served in the 2-172 Mountain Infantry Brigade.
"I've been announcing at some of America's largest running events for 22 years and can honestly say that being a part of the USAG Vilseck/Graf Military Communities Rock'n'Roll Marathon Series Yellow Ribbon Run was one of my absolute career highlights to date!" Powers said. "The Warrior Tours foundation is sharing this with hundreds of thousands of American's who are runners or family members of runners through Competitor Group and several worldwide magazines, to include Competitor.com," Powers said. "What really brought it home for me was the recognition of family that was incorporated into the event."
Following the race, Powers was given a tour of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and provided a chance to meet and talk with Troopers in their workplace.
"That was the icing on the American Cake for me,” he said, “getting to meet some of the finest soldiers in the world, at work, doing their jobs."
While the official registration count for the run set the record at 1,943 participants, organizers estimated over 2,500 runners took part in the event.
2SCR FIRES Names M-777
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany –The 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment’s FIRES Squadron gathered Thursday Nov. 20, to honor some of the outstanding Troopers from the Regiment’s rich history.
FIRES became the first unit in European Command to receive the new M-777 towed, lightweight 155mm howitzer. It has long been customary for gun crews to name their weapons when they receive them. In keeping with 2SCR’s tradition of remember the past, Fires Squadron decided to honor those Soldiers of the Regiment who were awarded the Medal of Honor for valor and bravery.
The guns bear the names of the following Troopers:
2/2 Soldiers witness historic celebration in Mödlareuth
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany – Troopers from 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment had the opportunity to attend a historic event in the town of Modlareuth on Nov. 9.
The Cougars were distinguished guests at the Bavarian State Government official celebration remembering the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Iron Curtain along the former border separating Western and Eastern Germany. Just like Berlin, the small town of Mödlareuth felt the harsh reality of separation during the Cold War as the Soviets erected a large wall which divided it right down the middle. Today a portion of the wall still stands outside the German German Musuem were the celebration was held.
During the Cold War era, 2ACR was responsible for surveillance of 731 kilometers along the Iron Curtain that included 375 kilometers separating West and East Germany. Mödlareuth was in 2SCR area of operation so it was fitting for 2nd Squadron to attend this event. American Soldiers patrolling the area nicknamed the town Little Berlin. Troopers said they felt honored to be part of such a significant moment.
“This is amazing to be part of such an occasion,” said Pvt. Dylan Baker of 2/2SCR. “I have never attended anything like this before.”
For Dylan, who just joined the Regiment three weeks ago, the ceremony was a great chance to learn more about the Regiment and it’s rich history in Europe.
One of the highlights of the evening was an address by Bavarian Governor Minister President Horst Seehofer. He began by thanking everyone involved in the peaceful end to the long separation.
"The people from former Eastern Germany (German Democratic Republic) owe our deepest appreciation for their courage, and desire for freedom and change,” he said. "We also need to thank the police, border police and the U.S. Forces for their special commitment by patrolling the borderline."
The last highlight of the evening, a group of German students from Bavaria, Saxony and Thuringia who recently attended a seminar with American high school students from Vilseck, Bamberg and Hohenfels discussed their experiences. They talked with their American counterparts about the separation of Germany by the Iron Curtain. The German students said they were amazed at how knowledgeable the American students were on the Berlin Wall.
The culmination of the evening happened when Lt. Col., Jones presented a plaque to the German-German Museum Association of Moedlareuth Chairperson County Commissioner Bernd Hering. This plague is now permently part of history. It will hang in the museum to solidfy 2SCRs connection to Modlareuth.
FIRES Trooper earn their Spurs
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany – Troopers of FIRES Squadron 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment recently participated in the time-honored tradition known as the Spur ride. The Spur Ride is an event held over multiple days during which a Trooper must pass a series of physical and mental tests that evaluate leadership, technical and tactical proficiency, and the ability to operate as part of a team under high levels of stress and fatigue. FIRES Soldiers participated in three-days of events that taxed them both physically and mentally.
In the early morning hours of day one, participants formed teams and gathered for the first hurdle they had to face dubbed the PT test from hell. This was a three-mile run with various physical tasks along the route each team must accomplish. The teams completed team push-ups, sit-ups, log and water can carry.
From there it was out to the land navigation course where teams had to plot and find eight points on a map in under five hours. The plots were spread out over a distance of nine kilometers.
On day two, tired and sore the would-be spur riders gathered at the motor pool . for a 15 kilometer ruck march with each Trooper carrying a minimum of 35 pounds in his or her pack. With very little time to catch their breath, teams were ushered from the finish line of the march to the next event, a timed obstacle course. Soldiers faced several challenges that tested their strength and ability to work as a team.
The final day began with a Squadron run. Each team was then administered a written test on the history of the Regiment. Troopers had 5 minutes to answer 15 questions. After the test the teams began several community beautification projects both around post and in the town of Sorghof.
The Spur Ride ended with a presentation during which each Soldier was presented with their spur certificate inducting them into the coveted Order of the Spur.
In the team standings first place went to Bravo Battery Team 1. Engineers team 8 took second and third place went to HHB team 1. The top Battery/Troop average went to the Engineers.
War Eagles gear up for IR 10
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany – Troopers of 1st Squadron 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are headed for the Republic of Georgia to participate in a two-week long training event known as Immediate Response 10.
IR10 is a joint exercise conducted at Vaziani Military Base to improve combined capabilities and strengthen regional cooperation. This exercise is held yearly and allows U.S. Soldiers the chance to train alongside and get to know their Georgian counterparts .
“One Georgian platoon will be integrated into our company,” explained Capt. Chris Felix, Bull Company commander , 1st Squadron, 2SCR, “and one of our platoons will join the Georgian company.”
Felix said the exercise will begin with each unit conducting situational training exercise which will culminate into a company-level field training exercise as the capstone event.
Some of the skills the Dragoons and their Georgian allies will be honing as part of the platoon level training is reacting to contact, cordon and search as well as capture and recover high value targets and personnel.
When they are not training hard in the field, Felix said his Soldiers will have the chance to get to know their Georgian brothers and their customs.
“We will have a cultural day and a weapons live-fire as well,” Felix said. The live-fire event will allow each Soldier the chance to fire the others weapons.
Felix said that the highlight of the exercise for his Soldiers will be working alongside the Georgian military.
“With current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, working with partner nations is a skill set every Soldier needs,” Felix said.”Anytime we have a chance to work with a partner military it’s great.”
War Eagles dedicate room to fallen Brothers
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany – The War Eagles of 1st Squadron 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment gathered with their German counterparts from the 112th Panzer Brigade Thursday for the dedication of their newly renovated squadron classroom. In addition the unit unveiled the War Eagle Memorial Wall dedicated to the memory of the eight Soldiers killed during the Regiment’s deployment to Iraq last year.
The ceremony began with the unveiling of the classroom’s new name. The classroom was named after Sgt. Patrick Leonard. Leonard was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions on May 15 1870. Leonard and four Troopers from C Troop, 2nd U.S. Cavalry Regiment were searching the Little Blue River in Nebraska when a war party of 50 Indians surrounded the group. Leonard slaughtered the two wounded horses and proceeded to use them to build a fortification. In the end the Troopers repelled the attack killing three and wounding several others. With all their mounts killed in battle, Leonard withdrew his men on foot.
Following the room dedication, the Burgermeister of Hirchau, Hans Drexler and Lt. Col. Markus Kreitmayr of 112 was invited to tap the first kegs of War Eagle Brau. War Eagle Brau was brewed specifically for 1/2 by the Hirschau Schlossbraurei in honor of the numerous community outreach projects the Squadron has performed in the city.
Once the kegs were tapped and the steins were full, Glasses were raised in honor of the eight fallen War Eagles whose pictures adorned the memorial wall. Each Trooper was toasted by a friend who described their character, and a stein of beer was poured for each and placed on the bar.
Training Complete Between Romanian, Bulgarian, U.S. Troops
[There are some great photos - 46 in all - if you click through to the source article at DVIDS.]
Story by Sgt. 1st Class Osvaldo Sanchez
NOVO SELO TRAINING AREA, Bulgaria – Joint Task Force-East wrapped up another successful combined training rotation during a closing ceremony here, Oct. 22. A week prior, Oct. 14, was the closing ceremony in Romania.
Service members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Romanian and Bulgarian land forces took part in this year's concurrent exercises. JTF-E is an element of the U.S. European Command's Theater Security Engagement Program that provides training for Romanians, Bulgarians and Americans to help build interoperability and foster professional partnerships.
The men and women, dressed in their combat uniforms, were standing at attention in a formation saluting the national flags for the last time. They were preparing to return to their home bases after completing their last exercise, Oct. 20.
They were the last of four rotational units to cycle through the various training activities facilitated by the task force.
Units came from the U.S. and Germany to complete three main objectives for the combined training; combat, construction and medical assistance.
Heading to Afghanistan
Stars & Stripes caught up with the 2nd SCR following the announcement that the brigade will deploy to Afghanistan next year.
VILSECK, Germany — The brigade the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment will replace in southern Afghanistan next summer is encountering stiff resistance from the Taliban, according to the 2nd Cav commander, Col. James R. Blackburn Jr.The Defense Department announced this week that the 2nd Cav will replace another Stryker unit, the 5th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, in southern Afghanistan. [...]
“I’d expect a different environment when we get there. It will be different after a year of sorting itself out with a new presence of security forces,” he said. [...]
“We are not preparing just to do lethal operations or only humanitarian missions. We are preparing for full-spectrum operations,” Blackburn said.
Deployment Orders
Today the DoD officially announced that the 2nd SCR will deploy to Afghanistan in the spring/summer time frame.
The Department of Defense announced today major units scheduled to deploy as part of upcoming rotations of forces operating in Afghanistan. The announcement involves two active duty brigade combat teams totaling 7,700 personnel, and one National Guard brigade with approximately 3,500 personnel. The scheduled rotation for these forces will begin in the spring of 2010.Specific units receiving deployment orders include:
2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment (SCR), Vilseck, Germany
The spring/summer rotation of the 1st BCT, 101st Airborne Division (3,700 personnel) and the 2nd SCR (4,000 personnel) continues the U.S. commitment to maintain the current level of forces assigned to the
NATO-International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).
Related:
Vilseck-based Stryker regiment tapped for Afghan rotation - Stars & Stripes
Video: 2nd SCR Participates in Joint Task Force-East Training
Package from DVIDS about how Soldiers of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment based in Vilseck, Germany, have been training for the past three months in Romania and Bulgaria as part of their preparations for an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan this spring. Produced by Sgt. Marla Keown.
2nd SCR Participates in Joint Task Force-East Training
MIHAIL KOGALNICEANU AIRFIELD, Romania – Soldiers of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment based in Vilseck, Germany, have been training for the past three months in Romania and Bulgaria as part of their preparations for an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan this spring.
U.S. Soldiers offloaded 30 Stryker combat vehicles in early August at the Mihail Kogalniceanu Airfield in eastern Romania and have since been conducting combined training with their host-nation counterparts. Soldiers of the 4th Squadron, 2nd SCR are participating in Joint Task Force-East's third annual training exercise in Romania while Soldiers of the 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR conduct similar training in Bulgaria.
Approximately 450 U.S. Soldiers and support personnel from the 4/2 SCR are training side-by-side with members of the Romanian Land Forces 33rd Posada Mountain Battalion based out of Curtea De Arges, Romania, at the Babadag Training Area, about 75 km north of the Mihail Kogalniceanu Airfield.
Iraq veteran delivers inspirational speech to Dragoons
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Vilseck, Germany – More than 100 Dragoons from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment gathered at the Vilseck Theater Monday Sept 28 to hear some thought provoking words from a very courageous and equally awe-inspiring Soldier, Lt. Col. Greg Gadson.
In May of 2007 Lt. Col Gadson was the Battalion Commander of the 2nd Battalion 32nd Field Artillery, Baghdad to conduct security force operations. Gadson’s vehicle was struck by a roadside improvised explosive device, while returning from a memorial service for two fallen Soldiers from another unit. Gadson was blown from the vehicle, when the bomb went off. He credits his Soldiers and their quick response with him being alive today.
“I am here because my team saved my life,” he said. He also admitted that this is a quality that can be found in most Soldiers today.
“My team is no different than all of you sitting out there today,” he said.
1/2 SCR Commemorates 65th Anniversary of Luneville Liberation
Luneville, France –Flags were flying, buttons were shining, and old-fashioned military vehicles were reliving a moment of glory in full military regalia in the small town of Lunéville, France. Last week, Soldiers of the 1st Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment based out of Rose Barracks, Germany traveled to Lunéville to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the town’s liberation and learned a little bit about their lineage in the process.
Combining the celebration with a battlefield staff ride, 66 members began their voyage by examining the effects that the Regiment had on the Lorraine campaign, a push by the 7th and 3rd U.S. Armies during their march to Germany in the summer of 1944. “This was the site where a young American lieutenant in charge of a platoon of tank destroyers killed a whole column of German armor!” said with obvious enthusiasm by Sam Doss, one of the historians given the task of bringing the old battlefield to life. Throughout the battlefield tour, the unit learned to recognize the advantages and disadvantages both had, Americans and Germans had in regards to terrain, material, and weaponry.
War Eagles visited by Polish CSM
Vilseck, Germany – The War Eagles of 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment received a visit recently from the Command Sergeant Major of the Polish Land Forces, Command Sergeant Major Jaroslaw Kolacz.
While in Germany to speak at the Warrior Leaders Course graduation at the NCO Academy in Grafenwoehr, Kolacz took the time out to meet with 1st Squadron’s Command Sergeant Major Jeremiah Inmann. Kolacz spent two days touring the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment . During his visit, Kolacz and Inmann discussed NCO development.
“This was a chance for me to get to know the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment,” Kolacz said. “I wanted to see how they train, develop NCOs and organize training.”
RSS Spurs German Partners On
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment PAO
Vilseck, Germany – The Regimental Support Squadron (RSS) of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment put their German counterparts from the 4th Logistics Battalion through their paces recently as the squadron hosted a two-day long spur ride.
The Spur ride is a significant event for every Cavalry Trooper. It signifies The Soldiers induction into the Order of the Spur. The Order of the Spur is a Cavalry tradition within the United States Army. Soldiers serving with Cavalry units (referred to as Troopers) are inducted into the Order of the Spur after successfully completing a "Spur Ride" or for having served during combat as a member of a Cavalry unit.
Day one of the event focused on the participants land navigation skills and medical proficiency.
RSS goes for gold at German Schutzenschnur
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment PAO
Pfreimd, Germany – More than 25 Soldiers from the Regimental Support Squadron (RSS) of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment traveled to Pfreimd, Germany Thursday to enjoy some quality time with their German counterparts participating in a weapons qualification event known as the Schutzenschnur.
The event was hosted by the RSS partnership unit, Combat Support Logistics Battalion 4. The Schutzenschnur is the German Armed Forces Badge for Weapons Proficiency. To earn the coveted badge, Soldiers must successfully qualify with the German service rifle (G36) and the German machine gun (MG3). The award is broken down into three grades gold, silver and bronze. The overall score for each individual Soldier determines the award they receive. The coveted Schutzenschnur rope is one of only three German medals authorized to be worn on the U.S. Service members Class A uniform.
According to German Master Sergeant Stefan Hagel, one of the event hosts, the day wasn’t about competition, it was more about brotherhood.
2SCR Steps up Training at Task Force-East
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment PAO
Vilseck, Germany –Troopers from the 2nd and 4th Squadrons of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are hard at work in both Romania and Bulgaria training alongside their NATO counterparts as part of the United States European Command’s Theater Security Cooperation event known as Task Force East.
During TF-East, 2SCR Soldiers conduct multi-echelon exercises with both Romanian and Bulgarian Land Forces that encompasses the full range of conflict using the traditional gate training strategy. Each Troop or Company is teamed with its Bulgarian or Romanian counterpart for a three-week long rotation that focuses on maneuver tactics, techniques, and procedures. Together, these units train at the squad, platoon, and then company level certifying on Full Spectrum Operations tasks.
Focusing on basic combat skills provides the foundation for tactical coaching from leaders in many areas. “Leaders at all levels are very proficient at tasks that Soldiers 10 years ago weren’t,” said Lt. Col. Omar Jones, the 2nd Squadron Commander. “However, continued training of basic Soldiering skills such as mounted and dismounted battle drills and individual movement techniques are vital.”
Cougars take time for Family
VILSECK, Germany – With all their equipment loaded and sent to Bulgaria, and the Troopers gearing up to take part in Task Force East, a training mission with both the Romanian and Bulgarian Armies, members of 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment focused their attention on the children of the unit by conducting a “Kiddie Spur Ride”.
The Cougar Cubs got a little taste of what their parents do Tuesday as they participated in a series of events from first aid to water grenade throwing.
“This whole week is Cougar Family Week,” said Lt. Col Omar Jones, 2nd Squadron Commander. “The Squadron is preparing to head out to Bulgaria and this is a chance to ensure that while we are there the families feel closer to the unit and each other.”
Dragoons tackle Combat Cross Country
VILSECK, Germany – A spirit of competition was in the air Wednesday as 48 Troopers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment gathered at the Rose Barracks Fitness in Vilseck to compete in the USAG Grafewoehr Unit Level Combat Cross Country Championship.
“This is the preliminary event to the larger competition to be held in Hohenfels,” said Carlton Campbell, tournament coordinator. “This event supports the community and showcases their overall mission of being a Soldier.”
The race is 6.2 kilometers and covers a variety of terrain. The course includes two obstacles participants must overcome. The first obstacle is a 12-foot steep hill runners must traverse twice. The final roadblock is a water obstacle. Near the halfway mark runners come upon a small bridge that is mined with simulated IEDs. They must then choose to cross the area either by traversing the side of the bridge or crossing a stream that is roughly 3-feet deep.
2SCR helps build Allied capacity at Task Force East
VILSECK, Germany –In the spirit of Theater Security Cooperation and with the help of the Joint Multinational Training Command, Troopers from 2nd and 4th Squadrons of the Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment traveled to Babadag Training Area in Romania and the Novo Selo Training Area in Bulgaria to take part in Task Force East.
As the face of modern warfare changes, developing strong bonds between coalition partners has become a vital asset in the Global War on Terror. Task Force East provides a great opportunity for 2SCR to assist allied partners in developing training capability as NATO continues to transform.
While participating in TF-East, U.S. Troops train side-by-side with Soldiers from the Romanian and Bulgarian Land Forces in a variety of combat tactics, techniques, and procedures. This interoperability allows 2SCR Troopers the unique opportunity to learn from their NATO counterparts. Cultivating a better understanding of each other allows them to develop vital relationships fundamental to coalition success in future operations.
RSS goes for gold at German Schutzenschnur
Pfreimd, Germany – More than 25 Soldiers from the Regimental Support Squadron (RSS) of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment traveled to Pfreimd, Germany Thursday to enjoy some quality time with their German counterparts participating in a weapons qualification event known as the Schutzenschnur.
The event was hosted by the RSS partnership unit, Combat Support Logistics Battalion 4. The Schutzenschnur is the German Armed Forces Badge for Weapons Proficiency. To earn the coveted badge, Soldiers must successfully qualify with the German service rifle (G36) and the German machine gun (MG3). The award is broken down into three grades gold, silver and bronze. The overall score for each individual Soldier determines the award they receive. The coveted Schutzenschnur rope is one of only three German medals authorized to be worn on the U.S. Service members Class A uniform.
According to German Master Sergeant Stefan Hagel, one of the event hosts, the day wasn’t about competition, it was more about brotherhood.
Video: U.S. and Bulgarian Soldiers Practice a Raid
DVIDS has a new video of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and Bulgarian land forces practicing tactical military operations in urban terrain during a raid on a suspected terrorist hideout. The objective of this training session was to locate and secure high value targets and extract them to Stryker combat vehicles.
2SCR Soldier Encourages Others to Reach Out, Get Help
By Mary Markos (USAG Grafenwoehr)
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany - Capt. Emily Stehr, a physical therapist with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, is in the business of healing. But five months after returning from Iraq, she was struggling with her own internal wounds of war that had not healed. She decided to kill herself.
What stopped Stehr was not the physical pain she would have endured, but the realization of the emotional pain she would inflict on the children of her close friends when their parents would tell them, "Aunt Emily in not around because she killed herself."
"I was not willing to put that pain on those children," Stehr said. "I'd inflict the pain on my mom, my dad, all my other loved ones, but those kids, I can't do it."
What Stehr did do was check into Landstuhl Regional Medical Center and began the process of healing.
Video: U.S. Army Stryker Vehicles Visit Village in Easter Romania
Package made from "U.S. Army Stryker Vehicles Visit Villages in Romania" b-roll about Soldiers training in Romania meeting the local communities near the training area. Produced by Marine Staff Sgt. Amy Forsythe.
Photos: Strykers in Romania
DVIDS has a couple new photos featuring soldiers from the 2nd SCR training in Romania.
Strykers In Romania
DVIDS has two videos about elements of the 2nd SCR arriving in Romania for a training exercise. The first video is embedded below, while the second is embedded after the jump.
2nd SCR Firing Big Guns
Stars & Stripes reports that Fires Squadron, 2nd SCR is anticipating fulfilling its true mission as artillerymen on future deployments.
As a result of the military’s shift in focus to Afghanistan, gunners from the Vilseck-based 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment — including some who haven’t fired a howitzer in years — are relearning old skills that they one day might use in Afghanistan but didn’t use in Iraq.Staff Sgt. Bruce Wiles, a section chief with Battery A, Fires Squadron, 2nd Cav, stood in a grassy field near Vilseck on Monday helping other artillerymen set up one of his unit’s new lightweight M-777 howitzers.
“Artillery would be our main mission if and when we deploy to Afghanistan,” he said. “We’d actually be doing our job.”
Dwell Time
Stars & Stripes reports that an extended training period for the 2nd SCR in Germany might translate into a longer dwell time relative to other combat units.
VILSECK, Germany — Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are packing up their gear this week for a three-month rotation to Bulgaria and Romania.While it’s not exactly sitting on the sofa at home, all indications are that the Strykers will get almost two years between combat deployments at a time when Army leaders are looking for ways to increase that “dwell time.”
Typically, Army units have been getting 12 months between downrange assignments. [...]
For now, the 2nd Cav has no deployment orders to a combat zone, although there is speculation among soldiers that the Strykers’ next combat tour could be to Afghanistan.
Firing Army's Newest Howitzer
Soldiers from the 2nd SCR in Germany test out the latest weapon system. Great photos, too!
On July 24, Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment FIRES Squadron became the first unit in Europe to fire the Army's new M777 Howitzers at the Joint Multinational Training Command's Grafenwoehr Training Area.
Wolf pack bids farewell to CSM “Bull dog”
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
VILSECK, Germany – Troopers from 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment gathered at Stryker Memorial Park in Vilseck July 17 to say goodbye to Command Sergeant. Major Everett Clark as he relinquished his position as CSM of the Wolf Pack to Command Sergeant Major James Bodecker during a Change of Responsibility Ceremony.
Commander of 3rd Squadron, 2nd SCR, and Lt. Col. Bryan Denny praised Clark for his dedication and commitment to the Pack.
“Known as a bull dog,” Denny said. “Command Sergeant Major Clark jumped into the squadron head first.”
“He tenaciously enforced standards, built systems and put that calibrated Sergeant Major’s eye on problems only he could solve,” Denny said.” He helped pull this squadron into a team.”
Denny went on to describe Clark as a true Soldier’s NCO.
RHHT says goodbye, welcome new commander
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
VILSECK, Germany – Troopers of the Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment’s Regimental Headquarters and Headquarters Troop (RHHT) gathered Thursday June 9th to say goodbye to a valued teammate and welcome a new one during a change of command ceremony.
Outgoing RHHT Commander Alfreda A. Lacey relinquished her leadership responsibilities to Capt. Nicholas B. Smith with the traditional passing of the guide on ceremony held at building 600 on Rose Barracks in Vilseck.
Lacey assumed command of the Vipers in July 2008 while the Regiment was deployed to Iraq.
“Freda assumed command in the midst of combat of one of the most difficult units in the Regiment,” said Lt. Col. Steven Bergosh, Commander of Fires Squadron 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. “She grew in command, instituting systems where none existed before and more importantly she cared.”
2/2, 4/2 SCR prepare for JTF-East
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
VILSECK, Germany – Soldiers from 2nd and 4th Squadrons of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment were working on the railroad all to live long day Thursday July 9 preparing for their upcoming deployment in support of Joint Task Force –East. Troops spent the day learning the proper procedures for loading vehicles and equipment onto rail cars for transport.
Instructor Johann Witt walked the crew through the proper procedures to insure all equipment and vehicles were loaded safely.
“We went through it step by step,” Witt explained. “We start with the safety brief and when that is done the rail team will begin prepping the cars.”
From there Witt went on to explain the proper procedure for driving vehicles on and off the rail cars. According to Witt this lesson covered two very important areas.
“Ground guiding is one of the important things I always raise up to them,” Witt said. “if you don’t practice proper ground guiding you will always have problems.”
The second issue is safety and how to drive onto the car. Following that the crews were taught the various options for blocking and bracing the wheels.
“Basically we are preparing for our closer meter targets which are Romania and Bulgaria for JTF-East,” said 1st Lt. Matthew Simon, Unit Movement Officer for 4/2 SCR, “but we are also working with Soldiers with longevity to prepare for future deployments as well.”
Simon was quite pleased with his Pale horse Troops performance throughout the training.
“We came out with a set crew with specific roles and responsibilities for the Romania movement,” Simon said. “Because we had predestinated ground guides and such, so we were able to focus in on uploading and walk away from today feeling comfortable with the hands on practice.”
Simon said that the day’s training was invaluable to his Soldiers.
“There are so many things that we do in the Army that is by reviewing the book,” he said, “but we always seem to close out training with some type of hands on experience.”
“This really helps solidify what is involved with rail ops,” he said. “Ultimately important to make sure the guys do it safely and then everything gets to its destination in one piece.”
Armor Center CSM revisits 2SCR
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
VILSECK, Germany – For Command Sgt. Major John Wayne Troxell a recent visit to the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Vilseck was like coming home. Troxell, who is currently the CSM of the U.S. Army Armor Center in Fort Knox Kentucky, served as the 2SCR Regimental Command Sergeant Major from 2004 to 2006. Troxell spent time with 2SCR Soldiers discussing issues facing troopers in the 19- Armor series Military Occupational Specialty. (MOS) as well as what it means to be a member of the noncommissioned officer corps.
Transformation was the topic of discussion as Troxell outlined some of the changes being made in today’s Armor units. He talked about the shift from armor heavy teams to a lighter Brigade Combat team.
“In the old days we were a tank heavy force, because we were set up to fight the Russians,” he said. “We were trained to fight them on open plains where you saw them from miles away.”
Troxell then went on to explain the shift from the heavy tank units to a lighter more mobile force.
Growing up Dragoon
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
VILSECK, Germany – The children of the Grafenwoehr Child Development Center received a special treat Friday. Troopers from 3rd Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment took time out of their busy schedule to stop by and share with the kids what it is like to be a Soldier.
The Soldiers brought along a variety of tools used by Infantryman such as night vision goggles as well as a Stryker vehicle for the kids to get a closer look and climb inside.
“We were asked by the CDC to come out and show the kids our equipment so they can get a better idea of what it is we do as a career infantryman,” said Staff Sgt. Anthony Torrescano. “The overall intent is to give the kids a better understanding so when they see it on TV it isn’t so scary.”
Along with the Stryker, Troopers brought along several pairs of night vision goggles and binoculars for the children to try on and operate. The students who ranged in ages from infants to five-years old donned the Soldiers helmets and talked to each other via the Stryker communication system.
Wolfpack places 24th in local 58km relay
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
VILSECK, Germany A team of Soldiers from 3rd Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment recently made a dynamic showing as they finished 24th out of 383 teams to compete in the 25thAnnual Amberg-Sulzbach County Run. The race was a 58 km relay on a course stretching throughout the neighboring towns of Amberg, Sulzbach- Rosenburg and Hirschau: in Witzlich and ending in Hanhnbach.
The team, known as the Wolfpack, finished ahead of most of the competition with a time of three hours and 58 minutes. Each runner completed a leg of the relay. Each leg was between three and seven kilometers long.
“This event was a great way to interact with local nationals in positive, friendly competition,”. It was also an impressive success and a way to showcase the physical prowess of our American Soldiers,” said Lt. Col. Mark Read, the team captain. “I was really proud of my guys.”
According to Read the team was the brainchild of 3rd Squadron Commander Lt. Col Bryan Denny.
SMA discusses leadership with Dragoons
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
VILSECK, Germany – The Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment was host to a very distinguished guest Monday. Sgt. Major of the Army Kenneth O Preston took time out to sit down and speak with some of the 2SCR Troopers about their issues and concerns as well as the importance of leadership and the non commissioned officers corps.
Preston stressed the need for current NCOs to encourage their Soldiers to develop good leadership skills early on in their careers in order to become members of the organization known as the backbone of the Army.
Fires Squadron says goodbye to CSM with 30 years
2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
VILSECK, Germany –Despite heavy rains, Soldiers and family members from Fires Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment gathered Thursday, at the Vilseck High School football field to say goodbye to Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony Diamond and welcome the new CSM, Squadron Command Sgt. Major Lorenzo F. Wallace during a change of responsibility ceremony.
After 30 years of service, Diamond ended his career with a bang. As is the tradition within Field Artillery units, the event opened with the firing of the last round. During the Last Round ceremony the outgoing senior non-commissioned officer takes control of the gun line and fires one final volley with the unit. The canister from that round is then presented to the outgoing NCO. Diamond was presented the canister by the First Sergeants of the Squadron. This ceremony symbolizes the desire of each artilleryman to be with his men manning his howitzer in battle.
“How do you summarize three decades of service and self-sacrifice, and do it justice,” said Lt. Col. Steven A. Bergosh, Commander of Fires Squadron, 2SCR. “Command Sgt. Major Diamond, there is no one in the Army I respect more than you.”
Chance Meeting Brings Cavalry Sergeant Face-to-face With D-Day Veteran
By Tech. Sgt. Michael Voss, 435th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
SAINTE MERE EGLISE, France – Although sun and waves come together to create a serene picture of Sainte Mere Eglise on June 4, 65 years ago on June 6 it was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in history.
On June 6, 1944, French, U. S. and other allied forces stood together on D-Day to fight the German occupiers of France. During the battle for the beaches of Normandy, paratroopers from American, British and Canadian forces landed along a 50-mile stretch of the Normandy coast.
It was largest single-day amphibious invasion in history, with 160,000 troops landing. Each year since the liberation of Normandy, allied forces have come here to honor those who fought here that day.
Sgt. 1st Class Steve Selvage, said he has waited 22 years to see the Normandy beaches and participate in commemoration ceremonies here.
"I have wanted to get here since my first year here in Germany. I just never had the chance," said the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Soldier stationed in Vilseck, Germany. "It is a great honor."
Czech Honors Dragoon “Cowboys”
By 2d Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office
Hostoun, Czech Republic (May, 1, 2009) — The streets of Hostoun in the Czech Republic were transformed into something from a World War II movie Friday. Past and present combined as vintage military vehicles, courtesy of the Military Car Club of Pilzen and Stryker vehicles from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment (2SCR) lined the streets. Residents, dressed in their best WWII American military uniforms gathered alongside troopers from Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2SCR to celebrate the 64th Anniversary of Operation Cowboy.
As WWII drew to an end, Patton’s Third Army and the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment undertook what was to be, a historic rescue mission that liberated 400 Prisoners of War and more than 670 horses. Among the horses rescued were the world famous Lipizzaner. The Lipizzaner breeding mares were taken from the Spanish Riding School in Vienna and were being held in Hostoun. Fearing the horses would fall into the hands of the Soviet Army, a small task force was formed from the 42nd Squadron to drive the horses via an old-west style cattle drive from Hostau to Bela nad Radbuzou which was under Allied control. The mission was deemed Operation Cowboy. During this operation, Pfc. Raymond Manz and Tech 5 Owen Sutton both of Alpha Troop, 42nd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment were killed by German SS forces while transporting the horses.
Wolf pack mourns the loss of a brother
By Spc. Jerry Wilson, 2SCR, Public Affairs
Vilseck, Germany (April, 24, 2009) – Soldiers of Hawk Company, 3rd Squadron. 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment gathered alongside their fellow Dragoons and Vilseck community members at the Vilseck Chapel Friday to pay tribute to, and celebrate the life of a noncommissioned officer who most described as a dedicated team player.
Sgt. William Patrick Sullivan II died April 22 from acute respiratory symptoms, stemming from an illness he had been battling since March. Sullivan was born June 15, 1985 in Oceanside, Ca. He is survived by his mother Yolanda and Father Joseph T. Sullivan, a former Marine.
“Sgt. Sullivan was a model Soldier,” said 1st Lt. Ryan Tallant, 2nd Platoon Leader. “He was the kind of Soldier every leader dreams about because he only made you better.”
2SCR hosts 112th Panzers for EIB
By Spc. Jerry Wilson, 2SCR Public Affairs
Vilseck, Germany (April, 22, 2009) –Sponsored by 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Soldiers of the 112th Panzer Grenadiers Battalion joined with their partners from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment to participate in a time honored event for Infantry Soldiers, the Expert Infantry Badge competition(EIB).
The EIB is a badge awarded to Infantry Soldiers who have proven their knowledge and mastery of their craft through a series of evaluations related to basic Infantry skills. Some of the tasks involved are: calling for fire, using radio and night vision equipment, firing and servicing a variety of weapons which include machine guns and anti-tank weapons, map reading as well as combat life saving skills.
For many of the Panzer Soldiers, this training was a new and exciting experience.
Update: SPC Josh Whitfield
The Modesto Bee has a nice update on SPC Josh L. Whitfield, a 2nd SCR soldier who was injured in Iraq last year. Thanks to Barb for the link.
A little more than a year after he suffered a significant brain injury in an ambush in Iraq, Josh L. Whitfield of Waterford received the Bronze Star for his heroic efforts to protect Iraqi schoolchildren and his fellow U.S. soldiers even after he was hit.The pinning ceremony took place Tuesday at Fort Lewis, Wash.
Summer Exercises
Stars & Stripes outlines the summer training plans for the 2nd SCR.
GRAFENWÖHR, Germany — The U.S. will send eight-wheeled Stryker armored personnel carriers and troops from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment to Romania and Bulgaria this summer to train alongside forces from those countries.Lt. Col. Daniel Herrigstad, public affairs officer for Joint Task Force East, said elements of 2nd Cav’s 4th Squadron will head to Romania while soldiers from the regiment’s 2nd Squadron will deploy to Bulgaria to train during summer and fall.
The 2nd Cav returned last year from a 15-month deployment to Iraq but with the focus of U.S. military intervention moving to the battle against the Taliban, there is speculation that the Strykers’ next combat deployment could be Afghanistan.
Stryker Simulator
Stars & Stripes has a feature on the simulator 2nd SCR soldiers are using to train.
VILSECK, Germany — Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment will be able to test their driving skills on a variety of military vehicles, using the Vilseck Training Support Center’s new virtual reality driving simulator.Jason French, a center technician, showed off the million-dollar simulator during an open house for Stryker soldiers on Wednesday.
Soldiers took turns in the cab — designed to replicate the inside of a Stryker armored personnel carrier — driving the vehicle through rough, mountainous terrain and urban environments depicted on three massive video screens.
2nd SCR Articles
Stars & Stripes has two new articles about the 2nd SCR.
- Vilseck's 2nd Cav regiment set to receive M-777 towed Howitzers
- Soldiers in Germany compete to earn silver spurs
Soldier Fundraiser
According to Asbury Park Press a local VFW is holding a fundraiser this Saturday for a former 2nd SCR soldier who lost both legs in Iraq.
It looks as if Iraq War veteran Sgt. Michael Minard is more than getting by with a little help from his friends.Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4247 are holding a fundraiser Saturday to help the Army veteran and Keyport native, who lost his legs in battle last year.
The event will be held at the VFW Post 4247 at Third Avenue and Waverly Street between 4 and 8 p.m.
Funds raised will be used to reconstruct Minard's home to make it more accessable for him to move around.
Strykers renew partnership with Panzer Brigade 12
By Spc. Jerry Wilson (2SCR Public Affairs)
AMBERG, Germany (March, 15, 2009) – Members of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment (2SCR) gathered alongside their brothers-in-arms from the Panzer Brigade 12 “Oberfalz” at the town Hall in Amberg Saturday to officially seal their partnership during the Panzer Brigade’s 50th anniversary celebration. As a symbol of this long planned connection, both Brig. Gen Lutz Nieman commander of the 12 and Col. James Blackburn, the commander of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment exchanged certificates of partnership which signified the close relationship of the two units as well as the two nations.
“This formal act is not only important for friendship and cooperation,” said Nieman as he presented Blackburn with the certificate, “but also an emotional desire to say thanks you.”
“Thank you to the U.S. Forces for what they have done, not just for us and Germany but for the whole free world,” he continued. “Here is to the start of an extraordinary cooperation and friendship.”
Warrior Adventure Quest replaces 'battlefield rush' with high-intensity outdoor activities
By Adriane C. Foss (USAG Grafenwoehr)
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany - If the initial feedback is any indication, Installation Management Command-Europe's high-adventure recreation program is becoming a huge success - even a lifesaver for some of its participants.
Warrior Adventure Quest kicked off its largest rotation Jan. 14 at U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr with high hopes of assisting recently redeployed Soldiers transition from high-intense combat zones to the tamer garrison home-life.
WAQ introduces Soldiers to high-adventure outdoor recreation activities such as skydiving, rock climbing, mountain biking or skiing, and combines it with Battlemind training. The goal? Allow Soldiers to experience high-risk activities in a safe, controlled environment.
Grafenwoehr WAQ coordinator Geoff Farrell said he certainly could have used such a program after two combat deployments left him inadvertently risking his life in search of the fast-paced adrenaline rush that was routine on the battlefield.
Change of Command
According to Stars & Stripes the 2nd SCR, which returned from a long deployment last fall, was turned over to new leadership recently.
GRAFENWÖHR, Germany — Senior officers who led the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment on a 15-month mission to Iraq from 2007 to 2008 said goodbye to their soldiers Tuesday at a change of command ceremony here.The outgoing 2nd Cav commander, Col. John S. RisCassi, handed over the regiment — which comprises more than 3,500 personnel stationed at Vilseck’s Rose Barracks — to Col. James R. Blackburn Jr.
At the same time, the commanders of the regiment’s six squadrons handed over duties to their replacements.
U.S. Army Europe commander Gen. Carter Ham, who handed the regimental colors to Blackburn, told 2nd Cav soldiers, families and community members that the brigade’s leaders did a good job on the recent Iraq mission.
2nd SCR Sniper
The Daily News Tribune has a nice profile of a soldier, Spc. Michael Clark, who serves with the 2nd SCR.
Clark is part of the 3rd Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment based out of Vilseck, Germany. His unit, during the “surge,” made daily patrols in Baghdad, in al Dora and in Diyala, a province northeast of Baghdad.He found Baghdad less secure than the northern area.
“The outskirts of Baghdad were the last stronghold where there were Sunni fighting Shia and a lot of internal fighting. We did a lot of patrolling to help stabilize things and get the economy back in shape,” he said. “Once they saw that we helped get their markets opened, then we were treated better,” Clark said. “The sheiks and mokhtar tribal leaders welcomed us when they saw how we cleaned up their neighborhoods.”
Patrols were arduous. He carried gear weighing 40 to 50 pounds each day on patrol in temperatures that often exceeded 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Road to Recovery
Asbury Park Press has an article describing the recovery of SGT Michael Minard, a former 2nd SCR soldier who was seriously injured in Iraq in October 2007.
Awesome could also describe Minard's story and his attitude toward recovery. On Sunday, the 26-year-old father of two girls spoke about how he is looking to the future, learning to use his prosthetic legs and thanking the community for the support he's received.The money will go toward fixing a ranch house Minard bought in Union Beach for his young family.
"What I was thinking about was my family, and getting a house was a start," Minard said. "I want a little stability in my life." [...]
Minard's legs were severely injured by an improvised explosive device detonated by the Stryker armored vehicle he was in while on a reconnaissance mission in the Sadr City section of Baghdad in October 2007. The explosion blew off the side of the Stryker, he said.
Strykers Return
Long after the soldiers have returned the 2nd SCR's Stryker vehicles finally come home.
VILSECK, Germany — They survived 15 months of combat, roadside bomb attacks, small arms fire and countless patrols on the dangerous streets of Baghdad and the dusty farm tracks of Diyala Province.On Saturday, dozens of Stryker armored personnel carriers arrived home to Vilseck, 19 months after they left for the desert. Recently returned soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, who relied on the eight-wheeled behemoths to keep them safe in the war zone, were at the railhead to meet them.
One of them, Stryker driver Spc. Thomas Mayberry, 27, of Cabot, Ark., said the vehicles looked naked without the protective cages they wore downrange to guard against rocket propelled grenades.
2nd SCR Redeployment Ceremony
Stars & Stripes has a nice article covering the official welcome home ceremony held by the 2nd SCR. I wish there had been more media coverage (military and civilian) of this brigade during its deployment - they essentially flew under the radar.
VILSECK, Germany — Twenty-three wounded warriors helped uncase the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment’s colors during a welcome-home ceremony at Vilseck on Tuesday.Some were on crutches, one was in a wheelchair and others had less visible injuries. All were given loud cheers and applause as they helped leaders uncase the colors in front of a packed crowd inside the Memorial Fitness Center.
Second Cav commander Col. John RisCassi told his men their service during 15 months in Iraq was nothing short of remarkable.
Strykers Returning to Vilseck
Stars & Stripes has a nice article about a welcome home dinner for the 2nd SCR hosted by the city of Vilseck.
GRAFENWÖHR, Germany — The city of Vilseck welcomed 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment leaders home from Iraq during a formal dinner at Dagstein castle Sunday.Uniformed Stryker soldiers and well-dressed spouses mingled with local community leaders and German soldiers before sitting down to a hearty meal at the 1,200-year-old castle in downtown Vilseck.
Vilseck mayor Hans-Martin Schertl told the leaders he regards members of the unit as citizens of his town.
Return Trip
Stars & Stripes follows a group of 2nd SCR soldiers as they leave Iraq and make the trip back to Germany.
ALI AL SALEM AIR BASE, Kuwait — It was midnight and home was within grasp, but after 15 months of grueling battle and fleeting sleep, the soldiers of 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment now faced the airport screening from hell.After carefully packing their bulging bags with clothes, body armor and trinkets picked up in Iraq, 305 soldiers had to empty everything for security officials who picked through shirts, underwear and socks looking for contraband. The check came between two X-ray scans and two metal detectors, a process that took about three hours.
New, old commands meet with influential local leader
(Confirmation that the 1/25 SBCT will assume command of the Diyala Province from the 2nd SCR)
Multi-National Division – North
DIYALA, Iraq – The commanders and command sergeants major from both the new Coalition unit entering the Diyala province of Iraq and the unit leaving the province met with Sheik Abu Ikhlaas, an influential local Iraqi leader Oct. 24.
The purpose of the meeting was to help bridge the transition with the local Iraqi population and 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. The commander of the 1st SBCT, Col. Burt Thompson, stated his brigade is committed to working toward and achieving the same goals as the Dragoons of 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
The Arctic Wolves plan to pick up where the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment left off, continuing to remain committed to the safety and security of Diyala province.
The Arctic Wolves relieved 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment of responsibility for Diyala.
Changes at Vilseck
Stars & Stripes explains a few of the changes that have occurred at Vilseck during the 2nd SCR's deployment.
VILSECK, Germany — Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are coming home to a community that has changed drastically during the 15 months they were deployed to Iraq.At Vilseck, the post exchange — once the heart of the Grafenwöhr-Vilseck community — has been replaced by a furniture store. A new mall, including a PX and commissary, opened at Grafenwöhr. The 172nd Infantry Brigade arrived at Graf over summer and is preparing to embark on its own Iraq mission next month.
U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwöhr spokesman Franz Zeilmann said the community is preparing for the Strykers’ arrival and reintegration.
"USAG Grafenwöhr used the deployment of the soldiers to update soldiers’ facilities and their working places with a very intensive construction program," he said.
Soldier Honored With Silver Star
The Staten Island Today has a nice profile of 2nd SCR soldier and Silver Star recipient, First Sgt. Eric Geressy (now MSG Geressy).
"It was really humbling to look back at what we did," said Geressy, now a master sergeant attending the Sergeants Major Academy at Fort Bliss, Texas.That's where he was awarded the Silver Star in front of his comrades and his family, including mom, Mary Ann Geressy of Oakwood Beach, and grandfather, Mitchell Rech of Port St. Lucie, Fla.
"I didn't do anything special," he said. "I was just put in a situation. It's all about my company. Those guys rose up that day. They are the real heroes of the day."
Father, Son: One Unit, One Fight
By Spc. Opal Vaughn, 14th Public Affairs Detachment
Despite already having served 15 years of service to country, Staff Sgt. Brian Pritchett, with 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, re-enlisted indefinitely two months ago. Now, following in his father’s footsteps, Spc. Bobby Pritchett, a driver with 3rd Squadron, 2SCR, is doing the same.
With his right hand raised and the other locked by his side, standing at attention with a smile on his face, Pritchett began to recite the Oath of Enlistment during a re-enlistment ceremony at Forward Operating Base Warhorse, located in Diyala, Iraq, Sept. 19, 2008.
Col. John RisCassi, 2SCR regimental commander, presided over the ceremony.
Soldiers re-enlist all the time. Volunteering to continue to serve one’s nation while deployed is also very common. But when both father and son, both in the same unit, re-enlist at the same time, it is history in the making.
“This means a lot to me,” said Brian. “At first I was apprehensive about my son joining. But he told me he was going to join and he did. The determination he showed me let me know that he wanted to do something with his life and to help protect his country.”
2nd SCR Advance Party
According to Stars & Stripes the advance party for the 2nd SCR has arrived back in Germany. Excerpt:
VILSECK, Germany — Fifteen months after they deployed to Iraq, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment troops are returning to Germany.Fifty soldiers from an advance party marched proudly Wednesday morning into the Memorial Fitness Center at Vilseck where hundreds of family members and friends waited to cheer them home. [...]
On Nov. 25, the regiment will honor fallen comrades by dedicating a memorial monument at Rose Barracks, then conduct a redeployment ceremony to uncase the regimental colors marking the official return of all its units to Germany, Rickard said.
Getting Ready
Stars & Stripes has a nice article about preparations for the return of the 2nd SCR to Vilseck. Excerpt:
VILSECK, Germany — Like kids who can’t wait for Christmas, families here have put up the decorations in anticipation the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment’s return.Stryker soldiers have been in Iraq since August 2007 and are expected home in November. But this week, on-post streets in Vilseck are lined with U.S. flags and yellow ribbons. Fences near the main gate are plastered with signs welcoming home individual soldiers or sub-units within the regiment. One features the silhouette of a soldier mowing a lawn from a wife looking forward to some help with the yardwork.
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.
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.
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.
2nd SCR in Diyala
Reuters has an nice article featuring the work of Fires Squadron, 2nd SCR in Diyala. Excerpt:
U.S. and Iraqi forces launched an offensive here last month, and U.S. Lieutenant-Colonel Bob McAleer of Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, says they have now cleared most major roads and towns in his patch between Baquba and Muqdadiya.A report published by the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War last week about Diyala concluded that progress had definitely been made by U.S. forces and it was now important for them to work with Iraqis to maintain the gains.
"The perception of the government of Iraq is that this is a 10 foot enemy giant. But it really is not now," said McAleer.
He says there are about 1,000 U.S. and Iraqi soldiers and police in his area. But that will mushroom to 7,000 as Iraqi army and police units sweep in to hold the gains, ferret out insurgents, take on the militias and let families return home.
Non-Lethal Stryker Soldiers
Bill Murray at The Long War Journal has written a very interesting article about a group of 3rd Squadron, 2nd SCR soldiers transitioning to a non-lethal role. Excerpt:
The 3rd Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment, located in the Diyala province north of Baghdad, has created a “non-lethal” platoon whose sole job is to help the local governments and tribal councils register voters, administer micro grants to businesses, and take pictures and biometric data for new members of the neighborhood watch programs.“At first I thought that it was silly, but it seems to be working,” said US Army Captain Eric Owens, commander of the Squadron’s non-lethal platoon. “I like the flexibility to handle a mission the way I want. The biggest thing for us now is to help these people realize that they are the chief authority and they can ask for things that they need.”
The platoon functions as a hybrid, melding civil affairs and psychological operations troops with crew members of a Stryker armored vehicle that replaces a second gun-mount with a speaker system to make Arabic announcements while traveling down the road. The team is augmented by an Arabic-speaking State Department employee with a background in construction management.
Sipping Tea in Miqdadiyah
Efforts by 3rd Squadron, 2nd SCR to revive the local economy in Miqdadiyah are highlighted in a new article by Bill Murray at The Long War Journal. Excerpt:
“A year ago, this guy wouldn’t be open selling kabobs, and we would have been sprinting from building to building, trying not to get shot by snipers – six months ago even,” said First Lieutenant Casey Campbell, commander of the White Platoon, Hawk Company, 3rd Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment during a visit to the Suk. “Al Qaeda would coming into town in almost platoon formation and would shoot everyone, police included, chopping off heads, it was awful.” [...]Now some furniture stores and a couple a coffee shops have returned. The U.S. State Department and the Iraq government are spending $1 million to help fix the Suk in the next year, while security has return to such a degree that Petreaus himself visited at the end of last month without his helmet and a Kevlar vest. Security was so poor during his last visit to the area in December that he couldn’t leave the nearby US military base.
Iraqi Army, MND-N Soldiers assist more than 150 families
Multi-National Division – North PAO
DIYALA, Iraq – Iraqi Army and Multi-National Division – North Soldiers assisted more than 150 Iraqi families during a humanitarian assistance distribution.
Members of the Iraqi Army and 4th Platoon, Fox Company, 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment distributed 1,250 pounds of food and water to citizens of Baqubah, Iraq, Aug. 5.
“This event demonstrates that the Iraqi Security Forces and the Government of Iraq are committed to providing essential services and needed supplies to the local populace,” said Maj. Jon Pendell, a 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment spokesperson.
Diyala Update
The Long War Journal has a lengthy update on Operation Omens of Prosperity in the Diyala province. The 2nd SCR is operating in the region, but I have yet to see confirmation that its soldiers are participating in the operation. Excerpt:
More than 375 insurgents and al Qaeda operatives have been captured during the first week of Operation Omens of Prosperity in Diyala province. Six senior al Qaeda in Iraqi leaders in the province have been captured during the province-wide operation.The Iraqi military announced it captured 265 suspected al Qaeda fighters during operations from July 29 through Aug. 2. Five members of al Qaeda's provincial shura, or executive council, were captured during this timeframe. [...]
Operation Omens of Prosperity is currently broken down into three smaller operations: Sabre Pursuit, Iron Pursuit, and Bastogne Pursuit. An estimated 30,000 to 50,000 Iraqi soldiers and police, backed by about 3,000 US troops, are participating in the operation.
Soldier Update
The Lawrence Journal has a long update on the condition of Spc. John Humphrey, who was seriously injured last month and is now recovering at Walter Reed. Excerpt:
John now is recovering in the Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C. On Thursday, he had his fourth surgery; the explosion caused damage that required partial amputation of both his right arm and left leg.The reality of the situation had been a blow to his parents; his mother, Denise, is a cheerleading coach at Shawnee Mission Northwest High School and Sean Humphrey is a Lawrence firefighter who formerly served as a volunteer firefighter for the Shawnee Fire Department.
“People say they’re caught up in a whirlwind, and that’s exactly how it feels right now,” Sean said. “It’s my business to help people, but I don’t know what to do right now. You can’t prepare for this.”
Operation Omens of Prosperity
The Long War Journal also has a good primer on the new offensive in Diyala called Operation Omens of Prosperity. Excerpt:
The long awaited offensive to secure Diyala province has begun. Iraqi Army and police forces, backed by the US Army, officially started Operation Omens of Prosperity today. [...]The bulk of the offensive is likely to take place in the rural northern regions of the province, where al Qaeda still maintains strongholds. US and Iraqi special operations forces have been hunting al Qaeda in the Hamrin Mountains, which span Diyala, Salahadin, and Tamin provinces. This area is a major fallback position for al Qaeda in Iraq and allied insurgent groups.
Diyala Offensive
Although this article from the Associated Press doesn't mention the brigade specifically, I have to imagine that the 2nd SCR is involved in some capacity with this operation. Excerpt:
BAGHDAD - U.S. and Iraqi forces launched a new operation Tuesday aimed at clearing al-Qaida in Iraq from the volatile Diyala province, considered the last major insurgent safe haven near the capital.New checkpoints went up across the province — one of the hardest areas to control since the U.S.-led war began in March 2003 — and authorities banned unofficial traffic as troops searched for insurgents around the provincial capital of Baqouba, according to witnesses. Many residents said they were afraid to leave their houses.
The U.S.-backed Iraqi military is hoping to build on recent security gains from similar offensives against Sunni insurgents in the northern city of Mosul and Shiite militiamen in Baghdad and the southern cities of Basra and Amarah.
Iraqis bridge gap between ruin, renewal
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad engineers with the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, journeyed to the Grand Canal Bridge in Taji Qada, northwest of Baghdad July 22, to monitor repair progress.
The bridge, which spans a portion of the Grand Canal, is one of the key crossings along the main highway west of the Tigris River. It was damaged by two attacks last year.
The first attack happened May 11, 2007, when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated in the middle of the southbound lane, leaving a massive hole in the lane. The second attack occurred Aug. 14, 2007. Another VBIED was detonated in the northbound lane, sending a large span of the bridge plummeting into the water below.
Ghost Rider Company finds cache in cemetery
Multi-National Division – North PAO
DIYALA, Iraq – Soldiers from Ghost Rider Company, 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, found three weapons cashes in Al Ujami July 20, one disguised as a grave site in a children’s cemetery and two more in the Palm Groves.
The caches consisted of AK-47 rifles, belts of automatic machine gun ammunition, 12.7 mm rounds, more than 100 7.62 rounds, anti-aircraft guns, an 82 mm mortar system, various mortar system parts and more than 200 anti-aircraft rounds.
“These cache finds will disrupt the terrorist networks in Diyala Province and will prevent the terrorists from conducting indiscriminate attacks against innocent civilians,” said Maj. Jon Pendell, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment spokesperson. “This demonstrates that the terrorists will violate the dignity of, and will not respect, innocent Iraqi families by using a burial site of innocent children to hide weapons.”
Operations in Diyala
The Long War Journal has a lengthy update on the situation in Diyala Province, where the Iraq Army is planning a major offensive against insurgents. The 2nd SCR operates in that area. Excerpt:
Iraqi security forces are massing more than 30,000 soldiers and police for an upcoming operation against al Qaeda and the Mahdi Army in the eastern province of Diyala, according to police and military officials. [...]The US currently has a brigade based in Diyala. The 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment is operating in northeastern Diyala and has been conducting operations against al Qaeda strongholds along the Iranian border.
MND-B Soldiers seize munitions in Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Iraqi National Police, and Iraqi Army and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers continued seizing weapons caches in Baghdad July 19.
Soldiers with the 24th Brigade, 6th Iraq Army Division seized 56 AK-47’s, two SKS rifles and two pistols in the West Rashid district of Baghdad at approximately 8:45 a.m.
Soldiers with the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, in a combined patrol with police from the 5th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Division, found a cache containing 10 AK-47’s in an abandoned house in West Rashid at approximately 9 a.m.
At approximately 12:30 p.m., Soldiers with 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division found a cache northwest of Baghdad consisting of four 57 mm rockets, an RPG launcher and two 155 mm mortar rounds.
Soldiers with the 2nd Brigade, 6th Iraq Army Division found a cache in the Kadamiyah district of Baghdad at approximately 12:00 a.m.. The munitions included three rocket propelled grenade launchers, five rocket boosters, two homemade improvised explosive device tubes and four RPG rounds.
A concerned citizen turned munitions in to 2nd SBCT, 25th Inf. Div. Soldiers north of Baghdad at approximately 3:30 p.m., July 18. The munitions included a 122 mm artillery round, a 105 mm artillery round and three 57 mm projectile rounds.
SSG Jeremy D. Vrooman
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Jeremy D. Vrooman, 28, of Sioux Falls, S.D., died Jul 15 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated while his unit was conducting combat operations in Kn'an, Iraq. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and fellow soldiers.
Related:
South Dakota soldier died from wounds from improvised explosive - Sioux Falls Argus Leader
Sioux Falls soldier killed in Iraq - Sioux Falls Argus Leader
South Dakota soldier killed in Iraq - The Associated Press
Operations in Diyala
The Long War Journal has an update on the situation in Diyala province, which is now under operational command of the 2nd Stryker CR. Excerpt:
The attack in Baqubah targeted recruits just as the Iraqi government is finalizing its plans to launch a fresh offensive in Diyala province. The final orders to launch the operation are waiting for the approval of Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al Maliki, the operations chief for Iraq's Interior Ministry told Voices of Iraq last weekend.The operation is expected to be launched in the next week. Iraqi troops were reported to be massing near Baqubah on July 11.
Iraqi and US forces have conducted several operations in Diyala province since the surge was announced. Last summer and fall, operations focused on clearing Baqubah, the Diyala River Valley north of Baqubah, and surrounding districts of al Qaeda and Mahdi Army influence.
In January 2008, an operation was launched in the Miqdadiyah region, where al Qaeda was building a safe haven.
Drought in Iraq
An officer with the 2nd SCR comments in the following article about the current drought affecting crop production and drinking water in Iraq. Excerpt:
Health risks and adequate drinking water are other worries.A recent survey by the International Organization for Migration found some of Iraq's estimated 2.8 million internal refugees, including in Diyala and Baghdad, already have trouble finding affordable food and clean water — a situation that could now worsen.
"You'll see a lot of dry canals, a lot of barren fields. You might see some increased health effects," said 1st Lt. Paul Horton, an assistant civil military operations officer for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Diyala, who praised local government efforts.
Stryker Soldier Injured
The Times has an article updating the condition of a Stryker soldier, Sgt. Robert Barthel, who was wounded recently in Iraq. It's unclear whether this was the same incident that claimed the life of Spc. William McMillan. Excerpt:
PORTAGE | Robert Barthel stayed close to the telephone Thursday morning awaiting word of his son's condition.The news wasn't good.
His son, U.S. Army Sgt. Robert Barthel, was severely wounded Tuesday morning when the Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle in which he was riding was struck by an improvised explosive device while he was on combat patrol near the joint security site in Nasser Wa Salem, Iraq.
Tip leads MND-B Soldiers to weapons cache
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – A tip from an Iraqi citizen led Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers to seize a weapons cache in Baghdad July 9.
At approximately 4 p.m., Soldiers with 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, received a tip and discovered two Katyusha rockets and 30 60 mm mortar rounds in the Kadamiyah area of Baghdad. The Soldiers continued their search and found 28 60 mm Iranian mortar rounds, two 107 mm Iranian rockets and two Chinese rocket fuses.
In a separate incident, Soldiers serving with the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, found 14 82 mm mortar rounds, two 81 mm mortar rounds, and 200 14.6 mm DSHK ammo north of Baghdad at approximately 4 p.m.
“As our partnership grows, the Iraqi community continues to gain confidence in Coalition forces,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman for MND-B and the 4th Infantry Division. “Their trust led to the recovery of this cache, making the Baghdad streets safer and removing the potentially deadly munitions.”
CF find weapons caches in cemetery south of Baqubah
Multi-National Division – North PAO
TIKRIT, Iraq – Coalition force Soldiers found two weapons caches in a Christian cemetery south of Baqubah, Iraq, July 7.
The caches, together, consisted of two rocket launchers, rockets, seven rifle grenades, three AK-47’s with magazines and multiple other devices used to make improvised explosive devices.
“This cache find demonstrates that we continue to add pressure on criminals who conduct indiscriminate attacks and eliminate their illegal weapons and disruptive accelerants as they attempt to run and hide,” said Maj. Jon Pendell, a spokesperson with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
Construction for Better Living
By Spc. Ryan Elliott, 14th Public Affairs Detachment
FORWARD OPERATING BASE WARHORSE, Iraq - The electric buzz of construction equipment and clouds of dust have become common fixtures around Forward Operating Base Warhorse located in Diyala, Iraq, as the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Regimental Engineering Corps, undertakes multiple construction projects to better troop’s living conditions.
“When we arrived at FOB Warhorse there was a lot of work to be done,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Victor Martinez, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
With an ambitious goal set, the Regimental Engineering Corps set out to build upon the existing foundation of security and conditions around the FOB.
Operation Cougar Storm
By Spc. Ryan Elliott, 14th Public Affairs Detachment
BAQUBAH - With beads of sweat rolling down their neck Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, labored away alongside members of the Iraqi army and Sons of Iraq sweeping suspected Al-Qaida forces out of two separate villages south of Baqubah during Operation Cougar Storm, June 23.
The operation was designed to deny Al-Qaida forces a place to stage Improvised Explosive Device attacks along key routes that coalition forces and Iraqi civilians use, as well as establish an Iraqi army presence in the area, said 1st Lt. Fernando Pelayo, a platoon leader with 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
The 2nd Squadron Soldiers along with Iraqi forces were successful in their mission of secured Mullaid and Naquib, two small Iraqi towns just south of Baqubah.
MND-B Soldiers seize cache in Taji
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized a munitions cache in Taji July 4.
At approximately 11 a.m.,Soldiers serving with the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, found two chlorine filled tanks, two 80mm mortar rounds, seven blasting caps, a 130 mm mortar round, a F-1 grenade, two one-liter bottles of unknown explosives, 320 7.62 mm rounds, a 70 mm projectile grenade, a 7-inch rocket warhead, two 120 mm high-explosive projectiles and various bomb-making materials in the Taji area north of Baghdad.
Adhamiyah Re-opens Pool After Refurbishing, 3-year Wait
By Sgt. Zach Mott, 3rd BCT, 4th ID PAO
BAGHDAD – Backyard swimming pools are such a staple of most American towns that few even think to wonder about what life would be like without one nearby.
For most people in Iraq, a dip in the local watering hole is either impossible or involves tempting fate in the ancient Tigris or Euphrates rivers.
“This is the only swimming pool in Adhamiyah district. All of the children go to the river, and that’s very dangerous for them,” said Muhtad Hasan, a member of the Support Council of Adhamiyah who works with youth and education.
The project to refurbish the pool and recreation complex began in March under the direction of the 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment. That unit recently completed its 15-month tour in Iraq and was replaced by the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, which oversaw the project’s final days.
MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, munitions in Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Iraqi National Police, Sons of Iraq, and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized a series of weapons and munitions in Baghdad June 28.
Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers with the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, seized 13 hand grenades, M-4 magazines, and 5.56 mm tracer rounds and armor-piercing ammunition in Adhamiyah at approximately 1 p.m. after the cache was reported by a SoI member.
IA finds weapons cache in Diyala Province
Multi-National Division – North PAO
TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers found a weapons cache in the Diyala Province, June 26.
The cache contained more than 1,000 pounds of homemade explosives, three improvised explosive devices, 10 anti-tank mines, four rockets and various IED-making items.
“This was a cache found by the Iraqi Army, independently,” said Capt. Kevin Ryan, a spokesman with 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. “We assisted with security. This is a great example of the capabilities of the Iraqi Army. They are able to operate on their own.”
SSG Du Hai Tran
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedoom.
Staff Sgt. Du Hai Tran, 30, of Reseda, Calif., died Jun. 20 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit while on patrol during combat operations. He was assigned to the Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
Related Articles:
Raiders, Dragoons Conclude Transition
By Ryan Eliott, 14th Public Affairs Detachment
FORWARD OPERATING BASE WARHORSE - The 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment took the reins of responsibility for the Diyala region from the 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division during a Transition of Authority ceremony held in Sgt. 1st Class David J. Salie Fitness Center on Forward Operating Base Warhorse, June 1.
“It’s a great day to be in the cavalry and a great day to be a Dragoon,” said Lt. Col. Bryan Denny, deputy commander, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
“The 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team gave the Iraqi people of the Diyala province hope,” said Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, commander of Task Force Iron and Multi-National Division - North.
SPC Justin R. Mixon
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Justin R. Mixon, 22, of Bogalusa, La., died June 1 in Baghdad Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and fellow soldiers.
Related Articles:
A Family Tradition Continued in Warhorse
By Spc. Ryan Elliott, 14th Public Affairs Detachment
FORWARD OPERATING BASE WARHORSE, Iraq- Capt. Joseph Shorr, 2nd Platoon Leader for Bravo Battery, Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment, replaced his older brother Cpt. Geoffrey Shorr fire support officer with Bravo Company, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division in Forward Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq. The brothers don’t hold the same position in their units as each other, but both are Field Artillery officers.
The two soldiers’ units recently crossed paths while conducting a Relief in Place operation, in FOB Warhorse this month. A RIP is the process when a unit trains to take over another unit’s positions and duties.
“It was a great feeling knowing I was replacing my brother over here,” said Joseph, “My arrival allowed my brother to go home and that gave me a good feeling.”
Stryker Cavalry celebrates 172nd birthday with party at Vilseck
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany — The 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment — the Army’s oldest continuously serving active regiment — celebrated its 172nd birthday Friday with a party at Vilseck.
Members of the regiment’s rear detachment donned Stetson hats and spurs for the party, which was a chance for families of 2nd Cav soldiers deployed to Iraq to let their hair down.
Bouncy castles, face-painting and balloons were the big draws for Ailani Rucobo, 3, according to her mother, Yvonne Rucobo, 34, of El Paso Texas.
Ailani’s dad, Staff Sgt. Hugo Rucobo, is in Iraq with the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Cav, Yvonne Rucobo said, adding that the party is a good chance for her three children to use up some energy.
The person who organized the bash — Capt. Shawn Giacobbe, 26, of Philadelphia — said the regiment celebrates its birthday every year but this year’s party was bigger than normal. [...]
When soldiers reconnect with children they hardly know
2nd SCR soldier profiled in the following story.
By JUSTIN PAPROCKI, McClatchy Newspapers
HILTON HEAD, S.C. -- The first time Army specialist Brian Morel held his daughter was in the Savannah International Airport. He took the 7-month-old from his wife's arms and hoisted her above his head - he in the subdued greens and tans of Army fatigues, and she in a pink and white jumper.
"Hi, there," he said, raising his voice an octave.
She didn't squirm.
Later, he'd recall that he wasn't sure what to expect that first time.
Iraqi Army presses into Sadr City
By Bill Roggio, The Long War Journal
The Iraqi security forces have entered the northern regions of Sadr City on Tuesday. Dubbed Operation Salam, or Peace, thousands of Iraqi troops moved into the Mahdi Army stronghold just before dawn and took up positions at strategic points throughout Sadr City.
"Operation Salam is going in accordance with well-planned and organized steps," Major General Qassem Atta told Voices of Iraq. Iraqi troops are tasked with securing the neighborhoods, arresting wanted individuals, and searching and seizing unlicensed weapons.
"The forces aim at maintaining security and stability to implement the remaining three stages of the ceasefire agreement with the Sadrist movement," Atta said. The agreement states there will be no use of "illegal weapons," the Iraqi Army would dismantle roadside bombs set up by the Mahdi Army, and security forces can arrest wanted individuals if a warrant has been issued. Security forces may also target anyone attacking them. The Iraqi Army has found and destroyed more than 100 roadside bombs since the operation began. [...]
MND-B, Iraqi Army Soldiers find weapons cache, IEDs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers discovered a munitions cache and several improvised-explosive devices May 20 in Baghdad.
In the Hadar area of East Rashid, Iraqi army Soldiers from the 11th Iraqi Army Division acted on a tip from a citizen in the area and discovered four 82 mm mortar rounds and five 60 mm mortar rounds at approximately 3:45 p.m.
At approximately 5:40 p.m., Soldiers from the 107th Engineer Battalion, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, found an explosively formed projectile and a deep-buried IED on the outskirts of Sadr City as Iraqi Army soldiers ventured inside of Sadr City while conducting Operation Peace.
Iraqi Troops Push Deep Into Sadr City
Here's another from Gordon. Although US troops were not involved in this operation, elements of the 2nd SCR and 2/25 SBCT are operating elsewhere in Sadr City.
By MICHAEL R. GORDON, The New York Times
BAGHDAD — Iraqi troops pushed deep into Sadr City Tuesday as the Iraqi government sought to establish control over the densely populated Shia enclave in the Iraqi capital.
By midday, Iraqi forces had driven to a key thoroughfare that bisects Sadr City and taken up positions near hospitals, police stations and the political headquarters of Moktada al-Sadr, the rebel cleric. There was no significant resistance and no American ground forces were involved in the operation.
The long-awaited military operation was the first determined effort by the government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to assert control over the neighborhood, which has been a bastion of support for Mr. Sadr, and comes in the wake of the government’s offensive in Basra.
Iraqi Forces Find Weapons Cache in Baghdad Mosque
It's unclear which Stryker brigade was involved in the following operation, but the author has embedded with 2nd SCR troops before.
By MICHAEL R. GORDON, The New York Times
BAGHDAD — Iraqi troops uncovered a large cache of arms in a raid on a Baghdad mosque on Monday amid signs that Shiite militants had stepped up their attacks outside Sadr City.
The raid occurred in the Shaab neighborhood northwest of Sadr City. After clearing the building of weapons, Iraqi forces closed the mosque and established a police checkpoint outside.
“The size of the cache in such an obvious place says that this group was not afraid of the Iraqi security forces in their area,” said Maj. Brian North, who leads the American military team advising the Iraqi Army’s 42nd Brigade.
MND-B Soldiers seize weapons cache, detain suspected criminal
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers uncovered a weapons cache and detained one suspected criminal in operations throughout Baghdad May 18.
At approximately 12:10 p.m., Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, were searching a power sub station in West Rashid when they found a weapons cache consisting of two AK-47 assault rifles, three AK-47 magazines, one Dragonov rifle, one PKC rifle, three improvised explosive devices, two initiators, 60 pounds of homemade explosives, other bomb making materials, and one 60 mm mortar with fuse.
At approximately 11:10 a.m., Soldiers with the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, currently attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div., detained a criminal suspected of emplacing IEDs after Soldiers received a tip from a local citizen in northeastern Baghdad.
Sadr City Update
The Long War Journal indicates that the pace of fighting in Sadr City has slowed ("Attacks decrease in Sadr City; fighting shifts to western Baghdad"). Excerpt:
With the cease-fire agreement between the Sadrist movement and the Iraqi government now in full effect after the four-day grace period that began on May 11, the fighting in Sadr City has decreased, but has not halted. The Mahdi Army continues to attack US and Iraqi troops as they work to complete the barrier along Qods Street in Sadr City, but the attack tempo has slowed, according to Multinational Forces Iraq. The US military believes the fighting has shifted to western Baghdad to deflect attention from Sadr City.From March 25 until last weekend, US and Iraqi security forces were engaged in major battles in Sadr City. Mahdi Army fighters were killed at a rate of nearly 20 per day, during which it was not uncommon for 20 to 30 Mahdi Army fighters to be killed in a single engagement.
Sadr City Update
Despite the announcement of a cease fire in Sadr City the fighting continues. The Long War Journal has a new update on the situation (Clashes continue in Sadr City). Excerpt:
Mahdi Army fighters continue to attack US and Iraqi units as they work to complete the barrier along Qods Street in Sadr City. These attacks are occurring despite the truce agreed upon by the Sadrist political block and the Iraqi government. Iraqi and US forces said 10 Mahdi Army fighters during clashes in Sadr City and three more Mahdi fighters were killed elsewhere in Baghdad. Iraqi troops have also begun reinforcing the Shula neighborhood in Baghdad.The Iraqi military said it killed eight “gunmen” inside Sadr City over the past 24 hours. The US military said it killed two Mahdi Army fighters from the night of May 12 to the morning of May 13 during five separate engagements. Three more Mahdi Army fighters were killed in the Mahdi-influenced neighborhood in New Baghdad and in northwestern Baghdad as they planted roadside bombs.
Soldier gets seven months for desertion while on leave from Iraq
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany – A 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment soldier who deserted while on midtour leave from Iraq will spend the next seven months in confinement.
At a court-martial Tuesday in Vilseck, Pfc. Robert J. Weis pleaded guilty to desertion and missing movement.
In an unsworn statement, Weis, 20, told the court he joined the Army motivated by a desire to protect America from Islamic extremists. However, soon after he joined, his sister’s fiance was killed in a fight at a party, he said.
Sadr City Cease Fire
The Long War Journal is reporting that a cease fire has been negotiated between militia forces and the Iraqi military/government. Excerpt:
After over six weeks of heavy fighting in and around the Mahdi Army stronghold Sadr City, where Mahdi Army forces took lopsided casualties in the fighting, the government and the Sadrist political bloc have signed an agreement to end the fighting. The agreement will allow for the Iraqi military to operate freely inside Sadr City while the Mahdi Army must halt its fighting.The negotiations, which took place over the course of the last several days, culminated in the signing of a 14-point agreement. Both Iraqi government spokesman Ali al Dabbagh and Sadrist spokesman Sheikh Salih al Ubaydi confirmed an agreement was reached.
Related:
Operations continue in Sadr City
ISF, MND-B soldiers engage IED emplacers and armed criminals
2/25 SBCT and 2nd SCR soldiers were involved in the following operations.
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers kept the pressure on rogue criminal elements in the greater Baghdad area May 7-8, engaging IED emplacers and armed individuals and discovering weapons caches.
At approximately 10:40 a.m. May 7, Iraqi Police from 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 1st Iraqi National Police Division, and soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, were attacked by criminals using rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire in Adhamiyah. An aerial weapons team was called in to assist. The AWT fired one Hellfire missile and killed two Special Groups criminals.
At approximately 11:40 a.m., west of Baghdad, soldiers from 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, discovered three mortar rounds, four grenades, a land mine and numerous blasting caps.
Sadr City Update
See The Long War Journal for another update on current coalition operations in Sadr City. Excerpt:
Clashes between the Mahdi Army and US and Iraqi forces continued in Baghdad over the weekend as efforts to complete the security barriers separating the southern portion of Sadr City from the Mahdi Army-controlled north. The US military has moved another battalion of Strykers into the Sadr City. In the South, Iraqi troops cleared another militia-controlled neighborhood in Basrah.
MND-B soldiers kill 6 criminals in operations in Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division - Baghdad soldiers killed six criminals during night operations in Baghdad May 2-3.
Soldiers from 107th Engineers Battalion, 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, were attacked with an improvised explosive device at approximately 9 p.m. in northeastern Baghdad. As they secured their vehicles, the soldiers were attacked by criminals using small-arms fire. The MND-B soldiers returned fire and killed two criminals. No soldiers were injured in the IED attack or subsequent engagement.
Sadr City Update
The Long War Journal continues its coverage of coalition operations in Sadr City with a new report. Excerpt:
The large majority of the direct attacks by the Mahdi Army against US and Iraqi forces in Sadr City are occurring on Qods Street, where a barrier is being erected to separate the Iraqi Army and US controlled sections in the south from the northern portion of the district, the US military told The Long War Journal. The Mahdi Army is attempting to stop the building of the barrier. [...]The Mahdi Army is trying desperately to stop the barrier from being built, and is focusing its attacks on US engineers and patrols as they work to complete it. The Mahdi Army has launched complex attacks and ambushes using small-arms, machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, and roadside bombs.
AWT kill criminals, destroys criminal strongholds
2nd SCR soldiers were involved in the following operations.
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Air weapons teams and Multi-National Division - Baghdad soldiers destroyed criminal strongholds and killed criminals in separate engagements in Sadr City May 1.
At approximately 11:30 a.m., soldiers from the 4th Battalion, 64th Armored Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division were attacked by criminals using small-arms fire, rocket-propelled grenades and sniper fire, while conducting barrier-emplacement operations.
An AWT providing overwatch for the operation engaged the criminals with a Hellfire missile.
ISF leads CF to 3 caches at abandoned building
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – At approximately 5 a.m., Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers conducted a joint operation with the National Police and discovered three separate caches in an abandoned building in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad May 1.
During the operation, soldiers from Company D, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division entered the abandoned building behind their Iraqi counterparts and began to search inside.
The soldiers seized 10 explosively formed penetrator improvised explosive devices, 26 155mm artillery rounds, more than 100 pounds of homemade explosives, 19 mortar rounds, 47 rocket-propelled grenades, seven RRG boosters, seven sticks of TNT, two blocks of plastic explosives, four claymore mines, a 105mm rocket, a bag of mortar boosters and rounds of loose ammunition.
“This is a monumental find,” said Maj. Dave Olson, the spokesman for the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div. “This tremendous action by the Iraqi Security Forces will hamper the activity of the criminals operating in the East Rashid area.
The Raider Brigade soldiers continue to support the ISF, as they find and destroy enemy munitions to provide a safe and secure environment for innocent Iraqi citizens.”
Sadr City Order of Battle
The Long War Journal has just published another update on the current fighting in Sadr City, which involves elements of both the 2/25 SBCT and the 2nd SCR. Bill Roggio also confirms exactly which units are involved in the recent operations. Excerpt:
The US and Iraqi military have rapidly built up their forces in and around Sadr City over the past several weeks. Two Iraqi Army brigades and elements from an Iraqi armored brigade and an Iraqi National Police brigade, along with eight US Army battalions have been reported in military press releases to be operating inside Sadr City over the past several weeks. In early April, only two US Army battalions, and Iraqi Army brigade, and elements from an Iraqi National Police brigade were known to be operating inside Sadr City.A US Army brigade, three Iraqi National Police brigades, and an Iraqi Army brigade are also operating in the neighborhoods adjacent to Sadr City. This unprecedented buildup of forces indicates the Iraqi government and the US military are serious about advancing into Sadr City beyond the southern third of the district being hemmed in by the security barriers being erected.
MND-B Soldiers kill 9 criminals in separate clashes
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division—Baghdad Soldiers killed nine criminals in two separate engagements April 30.
At approximately 3 p.m. in Sadr City, Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division observed criminals loading multiple rockets onto a launch sled.
The Soldiers engaged the criminals before they could fire the rockets and killed five criminals.
MND-B soldiers find explosives cache
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
FORWARD OPERATING BASE FALCON, Iraq – Soldiers attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, discovered a cache at approximately 3:45 p.m. in the Abu T’shir community of southern Baghdad April 28.
Soldiers from Company F, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, with the assistance of the Iraqi National Police, found two improvised explosive devices consisting of 20 pounds of TNT and 24 pounds of homemade explosives.
Soldiers also found three 155 mm artillery rounds, six 120 mm mortar rounds, 34 82mm mortar rounds, one 60mm mortar round, three rocket propelled grenades, and approximately 1,000 rounds of ammunition.
The soldiers of “Fox” Company also found three 81 mm mortar rounds during security patrols at approximately 3 a.m., April 29.
“The Raider Brigade soldiers continue to work closely with the Iraqi Security Forces to clean-up the hazards in southern Baghdad for the safety of the 1.2 million citizens of Rashid,” said Maj. Dave Olson, 1st BCT spokesman.
More on Sadr City
Again, The Long War Journal has a multiple updates on the current fighting in Sadr City between coalition forces and militia members.
- US troops kill 28 Mahdi fighters during Sadr City ambush - April 29
- US, Iraqi troops killed 41 Mahdi Army fighters in Baghdad clashes - April 28
Sadr City Updates
The Long War Journal has number of recent articles examining the situation in Sadr City.
- Maliki offers Sadr an out: disarm the Mahdi Army - April 26th
- Sadr calls for freeze in fighting - April 25th
- US, Iraqi forces engage Mahdi Army - April 24th
Ultimatum issued to Mahdi Army
The article also provides an update on operations in Sadr City involving elements of the 2/25 SBCT & 2nd SCR.
By Bill Roggio, The Long War Journal
The senior-most Iraqi general in charge of the security operation in Basrah has issued an ultimatum for wanted Mahdi Army leaders and fighters to surrender in the next 24 hours as the Iraqi and US military ignore Muqtada al Sadr's threat to conduct a third uprising. US troops killed 15 Mahdi Army fighters in Baghdad yesterday and have killed 56 fighters since Sadr issued his threat last weekend.
In Basrah, General Mohan al Freiji, the chief of the Basrah Operational Commander and leader of the security operation in the province, has issued warrants "for 81 people, including senior leaders of the Mahdi militia, and they have 24 hours to give up," The Associated Press reported. [...]
Soldiers capture suspected criminal
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
ABU GHRAIB, Iraq – Elements from 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, “Gimlets” detained a suspected criminal in the Abu Ghraib area west of Baghdad April 22.
This suspected criminal is believed to be involved with the making of improvised explosive devices, and attacks on Iraqi Army and Coalition forces.
“The streets are safer with these criminals in custody, and contributes to improving security in Abu Ghraib,” said Maj. John Pendell, spokesman for 2nd SCR.
“Due to its proximity to major highways and to northeastern Baghdad, security and stability in Abu Ghraib allows the economy and quality of life for local residents to improve,” Pendell said.
“The detention accelerates the improving security situation in the Iraqi capital.”
Soldiers seize weapons
2nd SCR mentioned at the end of the press release.
BAGHDAD – A Multi-National Division – Baghdad aerial weapons teams killed seven criminals and Soldiers seized weapons in separate incidents in eastern Baghdad April 19.
The AWT engaged the criminals with a Hellfire missile and killed both criminals transporting weapons at approximately 6:30 p.m. in the Sadr City district of eastern Baghdad. The AWT also destroyed two machine guns with the attack.
At approximately 8:27 p.m., Coalition forces were attacked by criminals with small-arms fire. They returned fire killing one.
U.S. Begins Erecting Wall in Sadr City
By MICHAEL R. GORDON, The New York Times
BAGHDAD — Trying to stem the infiltration of militia fighters, American forces have begun to build a massive concrete wall that will partition Sadr City, the densely populated Shiite neighborhood in the Iraqi capital.
The construction, which began Tuesday night, is intended to turn the southern quarter of Sadr City near the international Green Zone into a protected enclave, secured by Iraqi and American forces, where the Iraqi government can undertake reconstruction efforts.
“You can’t really repair anything that is broken until you establish security,” said Lt. Col. Dan Barnett, commander of the First Squadron, Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment, currently attached to the Second Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. “A wall that isolates those who would continue to attack the Iraqi Army and coalition forces can create security conditions that they can go in and rebuild.”
Warhorse Troop Passes Guidon
By Sgt. 1st Class William Quiett, 2nd SCR PAO
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – As operations continue for Warhorse Troop, 4th Squadron (Reconnaissance and Target Acquisition Squadron), 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, they took a brief pause for a change of command ceremony and bid a fond farewell to Maj. Christopher C.E. McGarry of Pensacola, Fla., and hailed Capt. Marcus Melton of Marietta, Ga., April 2 at Camp Liberty, Iraq.
McGarry relinquished the command he carried for the past twelve months to a long time member of Saber Squadron’s family.
“I was a bit saddened to hand over the reigns of Pale Horse Troop, yet more than ready to accept another command within the Saber Squadron and take charge of Warhorse Troop,” said McGarry.
Iraqi, US troops press forward against the Mahdi Army
By Bill Roggio, The Long War Journal
[...] The Iraqi government signaled that it was willing to take on the Mahdi Army inside its Baghdad stronghold of Sadr City and the outlying neighborhoods since Muqtada al Sadr ordered his militia to cease fighting six days after the Basrah operation began in March. Last weekend, Ali al Dabbagh, the spokesman for the government of Iraq, said Iraqi and US forces would "continue [operations] until we secure Sadr City." Multinational Forces Iraq said it was backing the Iraqi government and the military in its efforts.
The operation involves more than military operations, as the Iraqi government seeks to wrest control of the Mahdi Army's grip on public services inside Sadr City. "The aim now is to launch an ambitious plan of 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day public works and services -- improvement projects designed to convince the local population that the Iraqi government -– and not Sadr's Mahdi Army militia – is best able to improve the quality of life in an impoverished expanse of pot-holed streets, open sewers, and joblessness," the Christian Science Monitor reported. "US and Iraqi military are now set up and living among the Sadr City residents in the 'demonstration' area of the southern third of the sector."
Audio: NPR in Sadr City
NPR's Eric Westervelt reports today from Sadr City and mentions the Stryker units. Summary:
In fighting in Sadr City that left hundreds of Iraqis dead over the past two weeks, U.S. soldiers in support roles observed Iraqi forces firing weapons indiscriminately. They also say communication was lacking and logistics were poor.
US, Iraqi troops prepare the battlefield in Sadr City
The Long War Journal provides the following update on the situation in Sadr City, including confirmation that at least two Stryker battalions are operating there.
By Bill Roggio, The Long War Journal
Three weeks after the Iraqi government initiated Operation Knights Assault in Basrah, US and Iraqi forces have squared off against the Mahdi Army daily in the Shia slums of Sadr City. Additional US and Iraqi forces have moved into northeastern Baghdad to prepare for a possible major engagement against the Mahdi Army.
While Muqtada al Sadr, the leader of the Mahdi Army and the Sadrist political movement, has called for his fighters to pull off the streets on March 30, the Mahdi Army has continued to attack US and Iraqi forces in Sadr City and northeastern Baghdad. The Mahdi Army began seeding the streets of Sadr City with roadside bombs just days after Sadr declared the unilateral ceasefire. "Outlaw groups have planted roadside bombs and other explosives in most of the streets of Sadr City," the Baghdad Operational Command reported. [...]
The Iraqi and US military have also moved additional forces into the region around Sadr City in northeastern Baghdad. At least on Iraqi Army brigade and a National Police brigade are operating in the northeast, while two additional Army brigades are adjacent to the region. At least nine US Army combat battalions - the equivalent of about three brigades, are operating in or near Sadr City. At least three US battalions, including two Stryker battalions, have been identified operating inside Sadr City alongside Iraqi troops. [...]
Related Article:
Iraqi government: "We will continue until we secure Sadr City" - The Long War Journal
Soldiers Weed Out Sadr City Terrorists
By SFC Christina Bhatti, 25th Infantry Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD — Days after intense fighting, and the call to peace from Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr March 30, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers patrol the outskirts of Sadr City, a district of Baghdad, ensuring the safety of the city’s residents.
Sadr City has been the backdrop of many conflicts for Coalition forces since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. The city is the poorest of all the Bagdad districts and has historically been a safe haven for terrorists.
The Soldiers from Company A and a platoon from Company B, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, MND-B are tired, dirty, and work 24-hours a day with only cat naps to sustain them, but they relentlessly take to the streets in their mission to drive terrorists out of the area.
Route-clearance Soldier Leads From Front
84th ENG, 2nd SCR soldiers featured in the following article.
By Pfc. April Campbell, Multi-National Division - Baghdad
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – When Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers conduct missions out in sector, they pay close attention, watching and searching for signs of improvised explosive devices.
Soldiers conducting route-clearance patrols have one primary mission when going outside the wire: to search for and help rid the streets of IEDs; they help ease the burden and provide extra security for those who follow in their paths later that day.
When platoons conduct such missions, a single Soldier drives a one man vehicle known as a Huskey in front of the convoy. These drivers must recognize and react appropriately when they see IEDs – risking their own lives to protect the Soldiers behind them.
SGT Michael T. Lilly
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Michael T. Lilly, 23, of Boise, Idaho, died April 7 in Sadr City, Iraq, when enemy forces attacked using a rocket propelled grenade. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
All of us here would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones he leaves behind.
SPC Jason C. Kazarick
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Jason C. Kazarick, 30, of Oakmont, Pa., died April 7 in Sadr City, Iraq, when enemy forces attacked using a rocket propelled grenade. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and fellow soldiers.
Related Articles:
Soldier from Plum killed in Iraq - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Oakmont soldier's kindness touched others - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Memorial to be held for 2 soldiers killed in Iraq - Stars & Stripes
Hearing Intrudes in Sadr City, if Power Lasts
The following article also features a nice slide show of 2nd SCR soldiers in Sadr City.
By MICHAEL R. GORDON, The New York Times
BAGHDAD — When the electricity came on in the ramshackle district of Sadr City, the soldiers from the Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment flicked on the television to watch Tuesday’s Congressional hearings with Gen. David H. Petraeus.
For a brief moment, Washington politics intruded into a world in which automatic weapons fire, tank fire and explosives rock the streets. But before General Petraeus could complete his prepared statement, the power shut down again.
The fleeting reminder of the debate at home was followed by a blunt discussion of the larger aims of the American involvement here.
Soldiers on the ground offer mixed assessment
2nd SCR soldiers are featured in the following article.
By Richard Tomkins, Washington Times
FORWARD OPERATING BASE NORMANDY, Iraq — Behind the recitation of facts and figures by Gen. David H. Petraeus in Capitol Hill testimony beginning today, the fluctuating moods and emotions of U.S. troops here are much harder to gauge.
Do the Americans — many of whom have survived multiple deployments of more than a year at a time — see the surge as a success? Do they see Iraqis making progress, taking responsibility for public safety, their own lives and their nation's future?
Responses vary from day to day and often depend on when the questions are asked. [...]
Commander says Iraqis have positive impact on security
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany — One-half of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment patrols in southern Baghdad now involve both U.S. and Iraqi soldiers as the Iraqis take on more responsibilities, the unit’s 2nd Squadron commander said Thursday.
Lt. Col. Myron Reineke — who’s back in Vilseck on leave this month — spent part of Thursday morning at a Purple Heart ceremony for one of his soldiers who was injured March 7 in Iraq.
After the ceremony, Reineke talked about what his soldiers are doing in Iraq.
Al-Qaeda Killing Field Found Near Farming Village
By Richard Tomkins, Radio Free Europe
ZAHAMM, IRAQ -- Villagers digging in an abandoned pomegranate orchard in the Diyala River Valley have unearthed the remains of at least 52 people murdered by Al-Qaeda in Iraq during its two-year reign of terror in the area.
The first victim, whose head had been placed at his feet, was found on March 26 by a local village head and a U.S. Army officer who had been given the orchard's location by a man who said he had been kidnapped by Al-Qaeda last August and taken to a "jail" there, but managed to escape before execution.
"Smell that?" Captain Vince Morris, of Iron Company, 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, asked when he approached the orchard on that exploratory visit. No one answered. No one needed to. The gagging stench of rotting flesh was unmistakable. And it was much too strong for the contents of just one grave.
CPL Steven I. Candelo
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Steven I. Candelo, 20, of Houston, died March 26 in Baghdad, when his vehicle was struck by a rocket propelled grenade. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
We would like to offer our sincere condolences to his family, friends and fellow soldiers.
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Fallen 2nd SCR soldiers honored at Vilseck ceremony - Stars & Stripes
Staff Sgt. Maupin’s Remains Located
The 2nd SCR was responsible for finding Maupin's remains. He had been MIA for nearly four years. For background on this story The Wall Street Journal recently published an article titled, "The Waiting," that profiled the families of MIA soldiers from the Iraq war.
By Sgt. 1st Class William Quiett, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment
BAGHDAD – The remains of Staff Sgt. Keith Matthew Maupin were recovered, March 20, northwest of Baghdad by elements the Multi-National Division – Baghdad’s 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, which is based out of Vilseck, Germany.
The recovery was the result of four years of intensive effort by MND-B Soldiers and multiple joint and interagency organizations; The Soldiers of 2nd SCR were able to recover Staff Sgt. Maupin’s remains by approaching the recovery as a criminal investigation and employing appropriate investigative techniques.
“Since beginning operations in Abu Ghraib, we made finding Staff Sgt. Maupin a top priority to clearly demonstrate to every service member, and every family, that we will never leave a fallen comrade,” said Col. John RisCassi, the commander of the 2nd SCR.
MND-B Soldiers kill 8 criminals in separate operations
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers killed eight criminals in separate operations late March 29 and early March 30.
While on patrol in northeast Baghdad, Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment encountered and engaged a three-man rocket-propelled grenade team, killing all three.
14 bodies discovered near Muqdadiyah
Multi-National Division – North PAO
TIKRIT, Iraq – An Iraqi citizen reported a mass grave near Muqdadiyah to Multi-National Division – North Soldiers March 29.
Sons of Iraq and Soldiers of 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment discovered 14 bodies while investigating the site.
The bodies appear to have been at the location for two to six months. Some of the remains showed signs of torture.
The bodies were found 100 meters north of a previous mass grave, in which 37 bodies were discovered March 27.
“Our enemy continues to show why they will be defeated,” said Maj. Mike Garcia, spokesman for the Coalition unit operating in the area. “The local residents in Diyala have realized that working with Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces is far more beneficial to them then working with an insurgency that uses deplorable tactics like torture and murder to achieve its objectives.”
The graves were discovered in an area formerly controlled by al Qaeda in Iraq until they were pushed out during Operation Raider Harvest earlier this year.
SPC Joshua A. Molina
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Joshua A. Molina, 20, of Houston, Texas, died Mar. 27 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
We offer our condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
SSG Joseph D. Gamboa
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Joseph D. Gamboa, 34, of Yigo, Guam, died Mar. 25 of wounds suffered when he came under indirect fire in Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and fellow soldiers during this difficult time.
24 terrorists killed in Baghdad
2nd SCR soldiers were involved in the operations described below.
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers killed 24 terrorists March 26 in Baghdad.
Soldiers combined with their Iraqi counterparts to conduct precision, intelligence-based operations in the capital. These terrorists and militant elements were increasing their attacks against civilians, the Government of Iraq, and Iraqi and U.S. security forces.
Iraqi Medics on Latest Techniques
By Staff Sgt Arron Schille, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment
CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – The medical troop healthcare providers of the Regimental Support Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment conducted a combined medical education on anaphylaxis, a sudden severe whole-body allergy reaction, in late February.
More than 15 medical providers, which included providers from 101st Airborne Division, 3rd Infantry Division, 24th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army MiTT, and 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment.
IA, NP, Strykers Provide Medical Care in Agur Quf
By Pfc. April Campbell, Multi-National Division - Baghdad
ABU GHRAIB, Iraq – As the villagers approached the opening in the sandy brick walls, they could see the security guards outside waiting to search them before they entered.
Once Iraqi security forces and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers cleared them for entry, the Iraqis knew that, once inside, they would receive the medical care they so desperately needed.
The treatment offered far outweighed the walk there, and the security search was a minor inconvenience; most understood the measures were to provide them a safe haven in which to heal.
Tool Man Fixes Up Morale
By Staff Sgt Arron Schille, 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment
BAGHDAD - Within the compound housing, the headquarters of the 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment is a small shop made up of four plywood walls and a tarp for a roof. It’s what takes place inside this makeshift shop that helps the Dragoons of the 2SCR accomplish their mission with a little more ease.
Two Dragoon Soldiers; Sgt. 1st Class Chris Russel from Vancouver Wash., assistant operation non-commissioned officer, and Spc. Ross Gray from Lubbock, Texas, a generator mechanic, both of Regimental Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2SCR, took an empty spot in the back of the compound and within a week turned it into a self-help workshop for the Soldiers of the regiment to use to better their professional or even personal lives.
Promises of Better Security in Diyala’s Countryside
The 3rd Squadron, 2nd SCR is incorrectly identified as being part of the 4/2 SBCT in the following article - just FYI.
By Stephen Farrell, New York Times
DIYALA PROVINCE, Iraq - “Tell them we are staying,” ordered Lt. Col. Rod Coffey, nodding toward the Iraqis clustered nervously in the driveway beside his armored Stryker vehicle.
“Inshallah,” came the villagers’ reply, an Arabic expression meaning “God willing.”
Their wariness was understandable.
SPC Orlando A. Perez
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Orlando A. Perez, 23, of Houston, TX, died Feb. 24 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from small arms fire during dismounted operations. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
All of us here offer our sincere condolences to the loved ones Perez leaves behind.
Related Articles:
2nd Stryker Cavalry soldier killed in Iraq - Stars & Stripes
Bloodhound 17 Nabs 16 Caches in 10 Weeks
By 2nd Stryker Cav. Regt. PAO, MND-B
BAGHDAD, Iraq – His call sign is Big Dawg 17, but you might as well call him “Bloodhound 17” after he and his 30-man platoon sniffed out a total of 16 buried ammunition and weapons caches over a 10-wek period.
Sgt. 1st Class Connell, 40, a native of Polson, Mont., has the reputation of being tough, but fair, on his men. He is on his fifth consecutive year as a platoon sergeant, and he runs his platoon one way – his.
Connell is currently assigned to 1st Platoon, Battery B, Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. His current tour of duty in Iraq marks his second stint, and he barks out orders like a drill sergeant.
Iraqi Businessmen Attend Exposition
4th BCT PAO, 1st Inf. Div., MND-B
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Iraqi businesses got their chance to impress national and international customers at a business exposition held Feb. 15-18 in the International Zone.
The Iraqi –American Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted the “Baghdad to Baghdad Business Exposition” for local businesses at the Al-Rasheed Hotel in order to highlight the city’s economic growth over the past year.
“The event was the first of its kind in greater Baghdad,” said Maj. Patrick Garrett, a native of Hillsborough, Ore., a governance advisor with Multi-National Division – Baghdad’s 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division’s Embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team, assigned to work with the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. “More than 300 Iraqi companies participated, drawing in about 1,000 Iraqis.”
GOI, MND-B Continue to Make Progress on 60th Street
By Cpl. Ben Washburn, 4th BCT PAO, 1st Inf. Div., MND-B
BAGHDAD, Iraq – During the past few months, Iraqis and Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers have been working hard to make sure the economic resurgence thrives throughout Baghdad.
The soldiers of 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Inf. Div., have been working with the Iraqi government on major restoration projects in the southeastern part of the Rashid district.
Suspected Special Groups criminal cell leader arrested in Abu T’shir
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers captured a suspected Special Groups criminal cell leader in the Rashid District of the Iraqi capital Feb. 19.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to Task Force Dragon, noticed a man fitting the description of a suspected cell leader during a routine patrol of Abu T’Shir and detained him without incident.
It is believed the alleged Special Groups cell leader had taken over the day-to-day direction of the criminal cell after its previous leader was arrested by Coalition forces in the same area.
The suspect was taken to a Coalition forces detention facility for further questioning.
“The criminal activities of those who choose to dishonor the ceasefire pledge of al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr will not be tolerated,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, MND-B spokesman. “We will continue to work with Iraqi security forces to identify these criminals and bring them to justice.”
Soldier gets 6-month sentence for refusing to deploy
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany — A soldier who refused to deploy with his unit to Iraq because of a “deeply held personal belief” that he should not take a human life will spend the next six months in jail before being thrown out of the Army.
Spc. Benjamin Stewart, 25, of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, pleaded guilty Wednesday to missing movement on Jan. 7, 2008, when he was scheduled to deploy to Iraq. Stewart had already been convicted — and reduced in rank from sergeant to specialist — of being absent without leave when the bulk of the regiment deployed last summer.
SOI hand over two suspected criminals
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Members of the Sons of Iraq (Abna’a al-Iraq) handed two suspected criminals over to Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers in East Rashid Feb. 16.
The SOI turned the men in to “Cougars” of 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to Task Force Dragon, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, because they were in possession of homemade explosives.
Coalition forces explosive ordnance disposal personnel safely destroyed the munitions.
During a patrol in Abu T’Shir, Cougars also seized an explosively formed penetrator, 10 60 mm mortar rounds, and arrested three men, including two Iraqi policemen near the ordnance.
All detainees were taken to a coalition forces detention facility for further questioning.
The Weary Army: Strains Show in Various Ways
BAGHDAD—At Combat Outpost Aztec, the Company D (Dog Company) platoons of the Army's 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment spend eight hours a day patrolling the tough, rural roads of their palm grove-rich stretch of southeastern Baghdad. They search for militia thugs and keep an eye on the new civilian neighborhood watch patrols. Then, they have another eight hours a day of duty guarding the old meatpacking plant where they live. And in rare quiet hours, the soldiers have spent time literally counting sheep, in an effort to gauge local livestock health.
Dog Company has been deployed for three of the past five years, with stints in Mosul and Germany, in addition to their time in Iraq. This kind of operational tempo, optempo in military parlance, has taken its toll throughout the armed forces. Capt. Doug Willig, the Dog Company commander, reports that of his six closest friends at West Point, five have left the military.
DoD News Briefing with Maj. Gen. Hertling
Maj. Gen. Hertling briefed reporters (view full transcript) on the situation in Iraq. Diyala was cited specifically. Excerpt:
About six weeks ago, I informed all of you in the press room that we had started Operation Iron Harvest in Diyala province and the rest of our three provinces here in the north, and that's part of the MNC-I Operation Phantom Phoenix -- don't mean to confuse you on that, but two different names for operations that are ongoing. I've been asked to give you an update on that, as well as answer your questions on what is going on in the four northern provinces of Diyala, Salahuddin, Nineveh and Kirkuk. And when I talked to this group last month, we were in the early stages of the campaign throughout the province. To date, coalition forces and Iraqi security forces have had successful operations throughout the north, but especially in Diyala. Diyala is much safer today than it was a month ago. Citizens are less afraid to go out on the street, and markets are opening. Al Qaeda has gone to ground. We are hunting them out, where they have gone to ground, or they have dispersed and we are pursuing them to new areas. But there is still much work to be done to bring normalcy to Diyala province.
Ironhorse 6 Kickstarts Business in Iraqi Market West of Baghdad
Multi-National Division - Baghdad PAO
FIRA SHIRA, Iraq - Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, the commanding general of Multi-National Division - Baghdad and the 4th Infantry Division, who is a native of Hattiesburg, Miss., along with Hammond's executive officer, Maj. Andy Gordon, a native of Hueytown, Ala., and Command Sgt. Major Anthony Diamond, Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, a native of Cedartown, Ga., listen attentively during a patrol brief Feb. 7 before moving out to the Fira Shira Market, which is located west of Baghdad.
Maj. Gen. Hammond, talked to locals, including a local barber, about security concerns and business needs.
1st Sgt. James Grove and a fellow Soldier from Battery B, Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Multi-National Division - Baghdad, joked around with local residents. Recently, the unit provided a micro-grant to a local Iraqi businessman to jump start a bakery in the market. A week later, a restaurant opened across the street as a direct result of the bakery opening.
MND-B Soldiers capture suspected terrorist, high-value target
BAGHDAD – Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, captured a suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq leader in the Abu Ghuraib region of the Iraqi capitol Feb. 9.
This suspected AQI operator is believed to be a key facilitator of terrorist activities in southern Baghdad. He is the regiment’s number-one, high-value target and is being held for questioning.
It is believed the detention of the suspect will significantly contribute to the continually improving security situation in Abu Ghraib. Due to its proximity to major highways and northeast Baghdad, security and stability in Abu Ghraib is significant. Stability allows the economy and quality of life for local residents to improve and accelerates the improving security situation in the Iraqi capital.
“The detention of this terrorist suspect demonstrates that we continue to aggressively pursue Al-Qaeda in Iraq,” said Maj. Jon Pendell, spokesperson for 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
A new mission for Staten Island vet
Staten Island native Lt. Ryan Miller often dreams he is back in Iraq, patrolling the streets of southern Baghdad with his buddies in the Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
When wakes in his bed on the West Point Army base, he is greeted by a sobering reality: A steel contraption that holds together a shattered left leg, and a myriad of scars across his abdomen and buttocks where searing shrapnel once tore through body.
Miller, an Elm Park native, is a 24-year-old wounded war veteran who now has a new mission: Heal.
Standoff in an Iraqi province
By Garrett Therolf, Los Angeles Times
BAGHDAD -- A potential security crisis loomed Saturday in troubled Diyala province as significant numbers of a U.S.-funded force of Sunni fighters left their posts, demanding the ouster of the provincial police chief.
"You can imagine what danger will face the region in the next days," said Abu Talib, commander of 2,000 to 3,000 so-called Sons of Iraq fighters. His men, many of them former insurgents, turned against the militant group Al Qaeda in Iraq last year under the Awakening banner.
Joint patrol arrests six, find munitions
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division -- Baghdad Soldiers arrested six suspected extremists and seized munitions in support of Operation Phantom Phoenix in the Rashid District of the Iraqi capital, Feb. 8.
During an early morning joint patrol in northwest Rashid, Iraqi soliders from 1st Infantry Division, and 1st Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 11th Iraqi Army Division as well as Soldiers of Company B, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, detained six men believed to be connected to Al Qaeda.
Extremists continue hit, run attacks
Multi-National Division – Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Baghdad Soldiers conducting mounted patrols near Sadr City came under fire from criminal militia extremists from inside the district during two separate incidents Feb. 2-3.
Both incidents involved Soldiers with the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, working under 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. The Soldiers were not able to positively identify the shooters in either case, and consequently did not return fire in order to avoid harming Iraqi civilians.
There have been six attacks on Coalition Forces in the Thawra 1 and Jamilla neighborhoods of Sadr City through the first three days of February. Rogue militia forces appear to be behind many of the attacks, said officials with the 2nd BCT, 82nd Abn. Div.
Iraqi and Coalition Forces Target Criminal Elements
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Iraqi and coalition security forces conducted an operation targeting special group criminal elements today in eastern Baghdad. Sixteen criminals were initially detained, one died later from wounds received during the operation.
The operation involved Iraqi forces and coalition soldiers from 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, part of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Multi-National Corps – Iraq.
U.S. aid helps ease Iraqi minds
By Richard Tomkins, Washington Times
HIMBUS, Iraq -- Hundreds of Iraqis lined up in the dirt outside an elementary school in Iraq"s northern Diyala River Valley last month to be seen by U.S. and Iraqi military doctors — the first free medical clinic for residents of the town of Himbus and its surrounding villages.
In the village of al-Hib a day earlier, children lined up behind Stryker armored vehicles and carried armloads of U.S.-donated notebooks, pencils and other materials into their school.
"I"m trying to build human intelligence," said Army Lt. Col. Rod Coffey, commander of the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
Militants stake claim on Diyala River valley
Strykers are mentioned near the end of this article - it's unclear which unit the reporter is referring to, however.
By Alexandra Zavis, Los Angeles Times
DIYALA RIVER VALLEY, IRAQ -- They first appeared about 18 months ago: masked gunmen in speeding cars and scooters that kick up the mud along the canals weaving through lonely villages here.
The invaders pinned notices on the walls of mosques informing residents that they now lived in the Islamic State of Iraq.
Embedded in Iraq
Paul McLeary is an independent journalist currently embedded with the 1-21 INF, 2/25 SBCT in Iraq. He is beginning to post dispatches on his website.
Coalition Forces capture high-value individual
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
ABU GHRAIB, Iraq – Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Multi-National Division – Baghdad detained an individual suspected of facilitating improvised-explosive devices and possible vehicle-borne explosive devices for al Qaeda in Iraq. Jan. 26.
Two other individuals suspected of facilitating improvised-explosive device activity in Abu Ghraib were also detained.
All three suspects are being held for further questioning.
These arrests are part of Multi-National Division – Baghdad’s ongoing offensive operations in support of the countrywide Operation Phantom Phoenix.
In Iraq fear still grips Diyala's people
By RICHARD TOMKINS, Middle East Times
Fear of al-Qaida is a constant in the newly liberated areas of Iraq's Diyala province, northeast of Baghdad. The number of terrorists is down and life for villagers is becoming more secure. Yet terror's reach is long and deep.
"Al-Qaida made us like chickens, afraid of everything," the mukhtar (headman) of al-Hib village told a U.S. soldier.
"They would kill anyone, even a sheik, and no one could ask why," a man who identified himself as Raad, said in the town of Hisbum. "Everyone was afraid. People stayed at home because they could just stop you on the street and make you do things, take your money, beat you, or kidnap you.
U.S. begins Diyala outreach
By RICHARD TOMKINS, Middle East Times
HIMBUS , Iraq, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. military operations have transitioned from kinetic warfare to outreach efforts to root out al-Qaida-Iraq operatives hiding among the people in newly liberated areas of the northern Diyala River Valley.
Earlier this week hundreds of Iraqis queued in the dirt outside an elementary school in Iraq's Northern Diyala River Valley to benefit from a major outreach effort by U.S. and Iraqi military doctors -- the first free medical clinic for residents of the town of Himbus and its surrounding villages.
In al-Hib children lined up behind Stryker armored vehicles and carried armloads of U.S.-donated notebooks, pencils and other materials into their school. The same morning, drivers of 66 trucks lined up at East Sawid and then headed north to Mosul to market their oranges, potatoes, pomegranates and dates after U.S. and Iraqi troops inspected their vehicles, took down driver details and issued special passes.
CLC provides tip to cache, roadside bomb
2nd Stryker, Cav. Regt. Public Affairs
ABU GHRAIB, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers, attached to the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, found a cache in an abandoned building approximately 20 km. north of the Abu Ghraib district Jan. 18.
The cache consisted of .50 caliber small arms rounds, 70 mm rocket warheads, a rocket launcher, a surveyor’s tripod, a motor base plate, other small arms munitions and various grenade parts.
Soldiers from Company B, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry , 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division acted on a tip from a Concerned Local Citizen, and found a deep buried improvised explosive device in the same area Jan. 19.
Thirty al Qaeda in Iraq killed in Diyala
The Long War Journal has a brief update on recent coalition operations in Diyala, where the 4/2 SBCT and elements of the 2nd Stryker Cav. Regiment are based. Excerpt:
Iraqi and Coalition forces continue to press the fight against al Qaeda in Iraq in the northeastern province of Diyala, where the terror group maintains small pockets. In the latest series of raids as part of Operation Raider Harvest, Iraqi and US forces killed 30 al Qaeda operatives and captured 21, including a senior al Qaeda leader, during raids and operations.
Coalition disrupts al-Qaeda in Iraq operating in Diyala
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed 15 terrorists Tuesday and today during operations targeting al-Qaeda networks north of Baqubah.
During an operation Tuesday, Coalition forces conducted an operation targeting an alleged leader for the al-Qaeda in Iraq network operating in the Diyala province. The targeted individual is believed to be an improvised explosive device specialist involved in coordinating IED and suicide-vest attacks in the region. Reports also indicate the targeted individual has ties to several al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders.
As Coalition forces arrived in the target area, they observed several individuals reach for their weapons. Coalition forces fired warning shots in an attempt to get the men to cease their actions, but they did not comply. Perceiving hostile intent from the armed men, Coalition forces engaged, killing two terrorists, to include the wanted individual.
After Al Qaeda
This time the sound of Stryker personnel carriers rolling into the town of Himbus had a triumphal rumble to it. Two weeks after launching an offensive to drive Al Qaeda in Iraq from its stronghold in Diyala province, American soldiers were back, arriving in broad daylight in a trio of provincial towns to see townsfolk cautiously venturing into streets they had once avoided and interacting openly with Iraqi security forces.
Platoons watched as residents lined up for fleece jackets and rice being distributed by Iraqi soldiers in the hamlet of Abu Musa. Soldiers mingled with people receiving medical care for the first time in weeks at a clinic in Himbus. And they stood guard while men, women and children filled jugs of kerosene from a tanker truck in Taiha.
Photos: Strykers in Action
DVIDS has a number of new photo albums featuring all three Stryker Brigades in Iraq right now. Start here and work your way back through the archives.
Tips lead to detention of 10 AQI
Multi-National Division – North PAO
TIKRIT, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained 10 suspected al Qaeda in Iraq operatives during a raid in an Al Ali village, in the northern Diyala River Valley area, known as the bread basket, Jan. 17.
The successful raid was part of Operation Raider Harvest, which is part of Operation Phantom Phoenix – a countrywide operation to eliminate AQI and other extremists in Iraq.
Working off tips from local Iraqis, Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment detained the suspects at seven different locations in the village.
Update: Operation Phantom Phoenix
The Long War Journal has an extensive update on the progress of Operation Phantom Phoenix, which is ongoing.
Hundreds Honor 6 'Brave Men'
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany - Their families and most of their friends were thousands of miles away, but hundreds of comrades packed Vilseck Chapel on Wednesday for a ceremony to honor six 3rd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment Soldiers killed in a booby-trapped house in Iraq last week.
Second Cav Rear Detachment commander Lt. Col. Tom Rickard told those assembled that the Soldiers were victims of a desperate act by a retreating enemy blowing up its own safe houses.
"The brave men we honor today will be forever remembered for their accomplishments. Iraqis will tell this story to generations. Foreigners who removed a dictator ... Americans who never quit month after month ... never claimed Iraqi soil for their own ... and stood shoulder to shoulder with their Iraqi brothers in arms," he said.
‘Operation Raider Harvest’ Provides Humanitarian Aid
Story by Spc. John Crosby, 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
MANSURIYAH — Operation Raider Harvest, a large scale operation in the Northern Diyala River Valley involving more than 4,000 troops from 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division from Fort Lewis, Wash., is shifting focus from a clearing operation to a rebuilding operation.
The changes are showing in the streets. Hundreds of Iraqis took to the streets of Mansuriyah, Jan. 13, some to observe their new Iraqi Army and Coalition Force neighbors, others to collect bags full of rice and flour during a humanitarian aid (HA) drop conducted by Soldiers of Troop G, 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR).
“We are working to establish projects to improve life support and improve the infrastructure,” said Capt. Robert Green, Grim Troop Commander, 2-3 ACR.
Operation Raider Harvest Transitions Focus From Enemy to the People
MANSURIYAH, Iraq – Operation Raider Harvest, a large scale operation in the Northern Diyala River Valley involving more than 4,000 troops from 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division from Fort Lewis, Wash., is shifting focus from a clearing operation, to a rebuilding operation.
The streets are showing changes. Hundreds of Iraqis took to the streets of Mansuriyah, Iraq, Jan. 13, some to observe their new Iraqi army and coalition forces neighbors, others to collect bags full of rice and flour during a humanitarian aid drop conducted by Soldiers of Troop G, 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment.
“We are working to establish projects to improve life support and improve the infrastructure,” said Capt. Robert Green, Grim Troop Commander, 2-3 ACR.
In Iraq’s Bread Basket, it’s 18 men and a baby
AMIT R. PALEY; The Washington Post
TAIYEH, Iraq – The distress call rang out over the radio. In the midst of one of the largest current military operations in Iraq, Capt. Mike Stinchfield recognized this was, so far, his most urgent mission of the day.
A captured insurgent? A fallen comrade? Not quite. A local woman had gone into labor, and within minutes about 18 U.S. soldiers endeavored to help.
“That’s a lot of men to secure a baby,” said Stinchfield, 37, of Vancouver, Wash., the commander of Company H, 3rd Squadron of the Army’s 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. “But that’s what this war is like. It’s slow and boring most days, and not much happens.”
Iraq offensive: Clear out militants – and stay
Link via FOB Tacoma.
By Scott Peterson, The Christian Science Monitor
BAQUBAH, Iraq - US forces are solidifying control over some of the most persistent militant strongholds of Al Qaeda in Iraq northeast of Baghdad, drawing on a new counterinsurgency model that has already seen some success in troubled Diyala Province.
The newly established US military control over what officers call the "breadbasket" – the lush Diyala River Valley 70 miles northeast of the capital – is only the first part of a multiprong strategy to boost numbers of Iraqi Army and police in the area and re-connect beleaguered local authorities to the provincial government and Baghdad.
"We [and] the Iraqi forces and government are committing ourselves to staying in this area, which has previously not happened," says Lt. Col. James Brown, executive officer of the 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division. "It's been go in, find Al Qaeda in Iraq, kill them, and then leave. Big surprise, they come right back."
Stryker Soldiers Improve Soldier Care
By Sgt. Mark Matthews, 27th Public Affairs Detachment
CAMP STRIKER — Soldiers with U.S. Army Europe's Regimental Support Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, have continued to "improve their foxhole" since their arrival here in August, and the evidence is visible in the recently upgraded Troop Medical Clinic (TMC) here.
"We got the mission in September to provide a Level 2 clinic to support Camp Striker," said Maj. John McMurray, Medical Troop commander. "This TMC is a 24-hour medical treatment facility offering a pharmacy, X-rays, a lab, physical therapy, behavioral health and patient hold capabilities for all Soldiers."
An Iraqi House Was Rigged to Kill American Soldiers
What follows is a rather graphic article describing the scene following last week's casualties in Diyala.
By STEPHEN FARRELL, The New York Times
SINSIL, Iraq — The courtyard was a scene of devastation, strewn with medieval mud brick and modern cinder block, shattered alike by the explosion that killed six American soldiers and their Iraqi interpreter.
From the alleyway outside a day later, there was little sign that this was the house where the bomb exploded Wednesday, during an offensive to clear Sunni insurgents from the northern Diyala River valley, 60 miles north of Baghdad.
The same building complex had been cleared of explosives two weeks earlier, commanders say. But the ill-fated unit was apparently lured back to it by a villager who did not tell them that insurgents had sneaked back in later and rigged the house to explode.
U.S. troops turn police investigators
By Alexandra Zavis, Los Angeles Times
DIYALA RIVER VALLEY, IRAQ -- A stocky man in a dusty dishdasha and red-checked scarf squatted under a tree as U.S. soldiers dug up his yard looking for weapons or other incriminating evidence.
Staff Sgt. Mario Cavazos knelt in front of him in the finger-numbing cold.
"The reason we are here is because we have heard from townspeople that you have been kidnapping people. Is that true?" he asked through an interpreter.
SGT Christopher A. Sanders
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Christopher A. Sanders, 22, of Roswell, N.M., died Jan. 9 in Sinsil, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated during combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
We hope his family, friends, and fellow soldiers find some measure of comfort from the thoughts and prayers of everyone here at Strykernews.
SFC Matthew I. Pionk
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. 1st Class Matthew I. Pionk, 30, of Superior, Wis., died Jan. 9 in Sinsil, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated during combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.
SGT Zachary W. McBride
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Zachary W. McBride, 20, of Bend, Ore., died Jan. 9 in Sinsil, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated during combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
Our condolences are offered to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
SSG Sean M. Gaul
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Sean M. Gaul, 29, of Reno, Nev., died Jan. 9 in Sinsil, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated during combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
The Strykernews family offers our condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
SSG Jonathan K. Dozier
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Jonathan K. Dozier, 30, of Chesapeake, Virginia, died Jan. 9 in Sinsil, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated during combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
We offer our condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
SPC Todd E. Davis
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Todd E. Davis, 22, of Raymore, Mo., died Jan. 9 in Sinsil, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated during combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
Roundtable With COL RisCassi
Colonel John RisCassi, commander of the 2nd SCR, recently conducted a teleconference from Baghdad regarding the regiment's recent operations. You can read the full transcript (PDF file). Thanks to Cannoneer No. 4 for the link. Excerpt:
COL. RISCASSI: I sure do and welcome to everybody, and I'll just have a quick opening statement here. Then I'll gladly take your questions in the amount of time we have available. So I just want to start off with again a brief statement.The regiment, 2SCR, assumed responsibility as the above-ground force for Multinational Division Baghdad in September. Our role has been to provide forces across the city and to conduct clearing operations of the remaining al Qaeda in concentrations in Baghdad. We're currently providing squadrons or soldiers to four brigade combat teams, and have soldiers operating across Baghdad.
For the past four months, the regiment's focus was the clearance of the East Rashid security district, specifically the Hadar mahalla, which was one of the last significant concentrations of al Qaeda in Baghdad. The regiment had great success in East Rashid. Our soldiers found and reduced over 100 IEDs and found over 50 caches, including a wide range of munitions, explosives and weapons.
After 106 days of continuous operations, we have reduced enemy attacks in East Rashid from over 12 a day to less than one event every two days. Much of this success was the result of cooperation and tips from the local population, as they expressed their disenchantment of al Qaeda violence and social restrictions.
In addition to our clearing operations, we supported markets and small businesses across East Rashid, encouraged the creation of CLCs, concerned local citizen groups, and reinforced the local neighborhood action committees. There are now over 2,000 CLCs, including both contracted guards and security volunteers, manning over 100 checkpoints. It is their involvement and courage, in conjunction with the local Iraqi security forces -- (inaudible) -- long-term security and stability in East Rashid.
With that brief update, I'll gladly take your questions.
Update: Operation Phantom Phoenix
The Long War Journal has a detailed update on the progress of Operation Phantom Phoenix. Excerpt:
Further north, Iraqi and Coalition forces are pressing the attack in Miqdadiyah as part of Operation Iron Harvest. Miqdadiyah is a known al Qaeda haven.US and Iraqi forces liberated six villages from al Qaeda control in the region near Miqdadiyah, Iraqi army Major General Abdul Karim al Rubaie, the director of operations in central Diyala province told AFP.
"The villages have been under the control of al-Qaeda for a long time," Rubaie. "We have taken them back and al-Qaeda has been chased out." Ten al Qaeda were reported killed and 20 captured during the operation.
U.S. bombers target Al Qaeda in Iraq
By Alexandra Zavis and Julian E. Barnes, Los Angeles Times
SINSIL THARIA, IRAQ -- U.S. bombers and fighter jets continued an aggressive attack on the southern outskirts of Baghdad this morning, unleashing 38 bombs in 10 minutes on suspected Al Qaeda in Iraq safe havens.
In all, they dropped 40,000 pounds of bombs on Arab Jabour, in an area of mostly farmland, the U.S. military said in a statement.
Like Diyala, Arab Jabour has been plagued with ongoing violence, despite efforts to purge Al Qaeda. Some Awakening Councils — U.S.-backed security forces of former Sunni insurgents — have formed nearby, but none have achieved much success in the district on the outskirts of the capital. [...]
New Iraq offensive: 9 U.S. deaths in 2 days
Hal Bernton of The Seattle Times contributed to this report originally published by The New York Times.
By STEPHEN FARRELL and RICHARD A. OPPEL Jr., The New York Times
ARAB HAMADAH, Iraq — In one of the deadliest stretches for U.S. troops in months, militants killed nine soldiers in the volatile Sunni Arab heartlands north of Baghdad as the military launched its third offensive in a year to dislodge Sunni guerrillas from sanctuaries deep within the lush farmlands and palm groves of Diyala province.
Six of the U.S. soldiers were killed Wednesday at an unspecified location in Diyala in part of the offensive when insurgents detonated a large bomb hidden inside a house. Four other soldiers were wounded, and an Iraqi interpreter was killed.
The military did not release further information, but in Diyala, northeast of Baghdad, house bombs have long been a staple weapon for Sunni fighters who try to lure soldiers inside booby-trapped buildings. [...]
Nine U.S. soldiers killed
Michael Gilbert of The News Tribune contributed to the following report originally published by The Washington Post.
AMIT R. PALEY AND JOSHUA PARTLOW; The Washington Post
FORWARD OPERATING BASE NORMANDY, Iraq – A house booby-trapped with explosives killed six American soldiers on Wednesday during an offensive against Sunni insurgents in Diyala province.
The blast, which also killed an Iraqi translator and injured four U.S. soldiers, took place on the second day of an unusually large campaign in Diyala against the insurgent group al-Qaida in Iraq. On Tuesday, three American troops were shot to death in the neighboring northern province of Salahuddin.
Fort Lewis officials said Wednesday that they hadn’t been notified of any new casualties. The post’s 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division has hundreds of soldiers in the thick of the Diyala offensive.
Coalition, IA finds bomb making facility outside Baghdad
2/25 SBCT and 2nd SCR forces were involved in the following operation.
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
AL BAYTARA, ABU GHRAIB, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3d Battalion, 3d Brigade, 6th Division and Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers found different weapons and explosives caches in a suspected bomb making facility in Al Baytara, Abu Ghraib, just outside of Baghdad Jan 7.
Based upon a tip from a local citizen, the Iraqi Army unit found a cache consisting of more than 5,000 rounds of machine gun ammunition, a sniper rifle, rocket propelled grenade launchers, mortar rounds, rockets, rocket tubes, tank rounds, artillery rounds, an artillery round filled with home made explosives, various components for improvised explosive devices, bomb making materials, grenades, and more than 50 galloons of liquid home made explosives and 120 pound of solid home made explosives.
“The discovery of this cache by the Iraqi Army demonstrates that Al- Qaeda in Iraq still poses a dangerous threat to the security of the Abu Ghraib area, but it also highlights the increasing competence and effectiveness of the Iraqi Army,” said Maj. Jon Pendell, spokesperson for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
The MND-B Soldiers were from Company A, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, ‘Gimlets,’ 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division attached to the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment two.
The cache was recovered by explosive ordnance disposal personnel and destroyed on site.
Face of Defense: Combat Medic Places Mission First
By Pfc. Samantha Schutz, American Forces Press Service
CAMP STRIKER, Iraq, Jan. 2, 2008 – Today’s Army is an interdependent network of soldiers who are as unique as the jobs they do, with more than 150 military occupational specialties available to choose from. When a unit deploys to a combat zone, the soldiers within it depend on each other more than ever, along with their occupational knowledge, to keep operations running smoothly.
Army Staff Sgt. Craig Sotebeer, a native of Port Angeles, Wash., and an emergency care medic with Medical Troop, Regimental Support Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, said he has numerous duties both in the United States and while deployed, and that he takes all of them seriously.
Rebuilding Iraq by Vehicle Demilitarization
By Maj. Charles Rote, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – The Regimental Support Squadron ‘Muleskinners,’ 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, made a small difference today to the economic well being of Iraq. Dec. 21, 14 Iraqi workers reported for work as part of an equipment demilitarization crew. They will work in the Defense Reutilization Material Office yard reducing damaged and unusable vehicles into scrap metal which will be sold to an outside business and eventually find its way into an Iraqi foundry.
Since arriving in theater the ‘Mule Skinners’ took an idea to put Iraqis to work, and in collaboration with the Iraqi Business and Industrial Zone as well as Defense Reutilization and Marketing Service, it began to come together.
Street Festival Celebrates Reconciliation
4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – Local Leaders with Iraqi security forces and Multi-National Division-Baghdad Soldiers held a reconciliation street festival in the Saha neighborhood of the Rashid District, Dec. 23.
Local Iraqis as well as Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, and policemen from 1st Battalion, 7th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Division attending the festival witnessed an impromptu signing of a reconciliation pledge by Sunni Sheik Faisal of northern Saha and Shia Sheik Ali from the southern part of the neighborhood.
“Today over 200 residents from Saha met to resolve their differences peacefully and pledge cooperation for the future,” said Lt. Col. Myron Reineke, 2nd Sqd. 2nd SCR commander. “This is an important step towards improved security and a better life for all Iraqis.”
The event, held on 30th Street, would not have been held had the security situation in Baghdad not improved over the past few months.
Col. Ricky D. Gibbs, commander of the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Inf. Div. and Iraqi Brig. Gen. Abdhul Kareem, commander, 7th Bde. 2nd INP Division, attended the event to show their support for reconciliation efforts in Saha and surrounding neighborhoods.
No let-up for Christmas for U.S. troops in Iraq
BAGHDAD, Dec 24 (Reuters) - Christmas Eve, late afternoon, and U.S. soldiers from 4th Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment piled into their Stryker armoured vehicles for a patrol out on the streets of Baghdad.
This is the fifth Christmas that U.S. troops have been out in Iraq, and commanders say the best way to keep morale up is to keep moving.
There are special dinners, packages from home, religious services and decorations around camp, but no let-up in patrols.
Sunni, Shia Iraqis March Together in Baghdad
by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 101st Airborne Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD — Approximately 1,000 Iraqi citizens, of both Shia and Sunni religions, joined together on the sectarian fault line in Rawaniyah, the Karkh District of Baghdad, to march with one another in what they called a “Peace March,” Dec. 19.
It was an Iraqi initiative to ease sectarian tensions, solely driven by Iraqi Neighborhood and District Advisory Council leaders and Sheiks from both religious sects in the area, said Capt. Marcus Melton, commander and native of Atlanta, Ga., with Pale Horse Troop, 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).
Photos & Videos: Strykers in Action
News seems to be slow lately, but there are plenty of new photos and videos featuring Stryker soldiers at the DVIDS website. Just follow the links and work your way backwards through the search results.
SPC Randy W. Pickering
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Randy W. Pickering, 31, of Bovey, Minn., died Dec. 9 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained in a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the Regimental Support Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and fellow soldiers.
First Impressions Are Lasting Ones
By Sgt. Mark B. Matthews, 27th Public Affairs Detachment
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – A new Soldier arrives with bags in his hands as he sits patiently, waiting for a representative from his new unit to arrive and integrate him into his new home away from home. Hours go by and he begins to wonder if anyone realizes he’s even here. From the beginning his first impression of the unit is one of doubt. One unit in Iraq, with a rich history in properly welcoming Soldiers with open arms continues the tradition and leaves no Soldier left waiting.
The 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment “Dragoons,” continues the long-standing tradition of the “School of the Trooper,” which properly greets and integrates new Soldiers into a unit. The program began in 1836 and has now made its way to Iraq and is ensuring no new Soldier is left in the dark.
Scout Learns Arabic to Help Platoon, Mission
By Sgt. 1st Class Kap Kim, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – When Sgt. Jason Stisser, of Troop O, 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment found out he was coming back to Iraq, he quickly brushed up on his Arabic. That prior preparation has been benefiting both him and his platoon in their current duties.
Based out of Forward Operating Base Prosperity in central Baghdad, his unit, attached to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, covers the Karkh District.
In a recent clearing mission dubbed, Operation Saber Sweep, the white and blue platoons of 4-2nd SCR, along with Iraqi army soldiers, went from apartment building to apartment building gathering census information on the area residents.
Explosions and rubble all in a day’s work
Be sure to click through to see the photos as well.
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
BAGHDAD — Trash, dead animals, concrete blocks and street rubble appear to fascinate soldiers from the 84th Engineer Company, 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment.
On daily route-clearance missions, the engineers roll out of Camp Liberty, part of a sprawling complex of bases connected to Baghdad International Airport, and drive for hours paying close attention to what they find by the side of the road.
“Was that Coke bottle there yesterday? How about that plastic bag? Is that a piece of wire running out of that hole in the ground? That’s really strange … weird. Let’s grid-reference that lump of concrete. Let’s take a closer look at that piece of half-buried metal,” the soldiers say as they make their way through traffic-clogged urban streets or along dirt back roads in search of roadside bombs.
Injured soldier marries in hospital
SMITHDALE --
A Mississippian who lost both legs in Iraq has married his girlfriend in a hospital-room ceremony.
Army Spec. Josh A. Wells, 21, married Brandi M. Clark, 19, in a Nov. 20 ceremony at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio.
Wells was injured in a Nov. 2 attack on the Stryker Light Armored Vehicle he was driving.
Immigrant returns to Iraq with U.S. Army
Zahed is working with the 2nd SCR.
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
BAGHDAD — Aawss Zahed’s path to the U.S. Army started in the unlikeliest way.
The 30-year-old corporal is from Mosul, Iraq, and arrived in the U.S. in 2003, just as the war started.
“I was mad because the country I always dreamed of going to was the U.S. and a week after I got there the U.S. invades my country. I asked God: ‘Why didn’t they invade Syria or Morocco?’ ”
Mission to Iraq Brings Brothers Together
By Spc. Elvyn Nieves, 113th MPAD
BAGHDAD – Being a U.S. Army Soldier is a job filled with pride and honor for those who step up to meet the challenge, but it also comes with many hardships. One of which is when the Soldier is separated from his loved ones when deployed to serve his nation.
Very few service members can say they were able to see a family member during a deployment. But brothers Capt. Phillip Garner, 2nd Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment and Spc. Alex Lamont Garner, 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, were able to exchange a warm handshake and hug in the combat zone.
GIs still wary after destroying al-Qaida 'castle'
Thanks to Fred for sending the following story.
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
BAGHDAD — The city blocks surrounding Combat Outpost Blackfoot in Baghdad’s volatile East Rashid neighborhood look like a war zone ought to.
Think WWII and Stalingrad. Empty streets filled with debris … buildings with chunks torn out of them by high explosives and pockmarked by bullet holes … household effects scattered by looters … broken glass and twisted metal everywhere.
The outpost stands smack in the middle of one of Baghdad’s bloodiest sectarian divides. On one side of the base there’s an empty Shiite neighborhood. On the other side, an empty Sunni suburb. Most residents were driven out by the fighting that raged until Company E, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment went on an insurgent killing spree, shooting dead or blowing up 50 enemy fighters in September and October.
Resourceful, desperate militants turning to household materials
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
BAGHDAD — U.S. soldiers are reporting finding more and more roadside bombs packed with homemade explosives instead of artillery rounds, indicating that Iraqi insurgents may be be running out of military-grade ammunition.
“All the good stuff is gone or getting close to being gone,” said 2nd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment intelligence officer Capt. David Dehart, whose unit has secured a large swath of southern Baghdad since September.
“There are not these large 152 mm or 130 mm [artillery rounds] lying around anymore. No anti-tank mines have been found in our area. There are no [rocket-propelled grenades] these days.”
Stryker Brigades: Where Are They Now?
Mike Gilbert of The News Tribune has a nice summary of where each Stryker Brigade is right now (deployed/dwelling), and when each might be called on again to head overseas.
Death & Decay
I had followed a patrol into a house and a sergeant was interviewing the owner about his recent movements when we were all ordered back to our armoured Stryker vehicle immediately. Another patrol a few streets away had come under attack from an insurgent throwing a hand grenade. The troops returned fire but the man had melted into the shadows. There were no casualties.
We set off and offered to help join the search for the insurgent. As we hurtled along in the growling vehicle, I could watch our progress on screen. The dusty street passed beneath us at speed, then we paused at a wide cesspool, a common sight in Baghdad. The Stryker's camera, ever watchful for roadside bombs, zoomed in on a stick-like object rising above the water's surface, then jerked to a man who seemed to be foraging nearby. On closer inspection the man was ageing, dishevelled and lame, walking by the kerb with a shambling gait.
2LT Peter H. Burks
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
2nd Lt. Peter H. Burks, 26, of Dallas, Texas, died Nov. 14 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
We hope his family and friends find some measure of comfort from the thoughts and prayers of everyone here at Strykernews.
Experts help soldiers bridge cultural gaps
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
BAGHDAD — Middle eastern culture experts are helping 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment soldiers better understand Iraqis they meet and work with in West Baghdad.
Soldiers from 2nd Cav’s 2nd Squadron are working closely with a four-person Human Terrain Team (HTT) out of Forward Operating Base Falcon in Baghdad’s violent East Rashid neighborhood.
The team of academics, which includes a social scientist, two cultural analysts and a military liaison officer, is charged with bringing cultural awareness to the Army and studying the ethnic makeup of Iraqi populations so commanders can plan courses of action, governance, patrols and provision of essential services accordingly, said HTT member Fouad Lghzaoui.
I'll be in the history books one day'
Three SCR soldiers are interviewed in this article.
David Smith talks to US soldiers about their motivation and experiences in Iraq
Guardian Unlimited
[...]Sergeant Tonio Childress, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. Age 36, from Peoria, Illinois
When I joined the army, in 1993, I never thought I'd be in Baghdad. You're aware of the dangers, and there's always the thought that I could leave my daughters and son without a father, and my wife without a husband.
But it means, hopefully, in 10 or 20 years, my daughters and son won't have to come out and do the same thing.[...]
Sgt Quentin Leon, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. Age 23, from St Louis, Missouri
This is my second tour. In between, I got married and had kids. So it's different. I definitely won't be re-enlisting, I can tell you that.
It's been in the family: my great-grandfather fought in world war one, my grandfather in world war two, my uncle in Vietnam and my cousin in the first Gulf war. So I figured it was the thing to do.[...]
Staff Sgt Jason Redick, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. Age 29, from Lapeer, Michigan
I got blown up 14,15 times on Humvees last year. The vehicles were often destroyed but I wasn't injured.
You're always fearful, but you get kind of comfortable. There's no reason to reflect on it because you know you're going to go out anyway, so you just do it. You don't really dwell on the people you lost until you get home. Before, we were looking for bad guys on our own, but now the Iraqis are very happy to help. Ninety per cent of the improvement here is due to people's cooperation. The tip line is always ringing with information. Walk around the neighbourhood and they'll tell you: they're tired of the violence.[...]
Apprehensive? Oh yes
A reporter with the Guardian Unlimited is currently embedded with the 2nd SCR.
David Smith, Guardian Unlimited
The steel hatch swung up behind me like a drawbridge and snapped shut. My fate was sealed. I was sitting inside an armoured, eight-wheel Stryker vehicle and would spend the next 10 hours patrolling 'al-Qaida's last stronghold in Baghdad'. Apprehensive? Oh yes.
Fortunately the Stryker is probably the best there is and, I was told, able to withstand roadside bombs, the improvised explosive devices that have taken such a terrible toll on US forces. I tried not to think about the even more lethal explosively formed projectiles, which fire a slug of molten metal capable of penetrating the thickest armour.
With body armour, helmet, notebook and camera, I was sitting towards the rear of the Stryker with my back to the driver, in the middle of four soldiers who spent much of the journey standing at turrets with assault rifles. To my left and right were TV screens, clusters of wires and control panels, a fire extinguisher, an industrial strength laptop and, I noted, a box of sweets and an iPod. A thin film of sand clung to everything.
Al-Qaida might be gone, but Baghdad district remains in shadows
3rd Squadron, 2nd SCR is featured in the following article.
Michael Gisick, Albuquerque Tribune
BAGHDAD — Dawn is still an hour away as Army Capt. Francisco Javier Lopez and a squad of U.S. soldiers step off their armored vehicle into the dusty remnants of the night, passing the twisted wreck of a sedan and slipping into the walled garden of a middle-class home.
They have come to listen.
Until recently, that was not their main occupation. If the military's claims that al-Qaida in Iraq has been routed from the capital prove true, then neighborhoods like this one in southeast Baghdad's Hadar district were among al-Qaida's last strongholds, where fighting raged through most of October.
Photo: Soldiers Help Al Doreen Prepare for Winter
I came across this image on the DVIDS site. Caption:
U.S. Army Capt. Edmond Hardy of 1st Armored Division, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 4th Squadron, Outlaw Troop commander holds a local child and her new toy monkey while giving orders during an aide mission in the Al Doreen neighborhood of Iraq, Oct. 14. Outlaw Troop handed out blankets, toys and kerosene heaters in preparation for the winter months.
You can browse other Stryker-related photos there as well.
Pale Horse Troop Finds Two Caches
BAGHDAD – Soldiers from Troop P, 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, currently attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, found two caches of weapons and explosives while on patrol in the Ramaniyah neighborhood, Nov. 5.
Buried under the bleachers of a soccer stadium in two locations, the Soldiers found 45 blocks of C-4 explosives, 33 mortars, almost 2000 rounds of ammunition, a rocket-propelled grenade and launcher, 2 Dragunov-style sniper rifles, 2 protective vests and a grenade.
Capt. Marcus Melton, commander of ‘Pale Horse’ Troop of the Vilseck, Germany-based 4-2 SCR, said the cache find was quite uncommon for the area he and his men patrol on a regular basis.
Dispensing inspiration from their beds
By Nancy Montgomery, Stars and Stripes
LANDSTUHL, Germany — After the bomb hit, after the confusion, despite the pain, when he realized he was going to live, Spc. Sean Staggs laughed.
I was laughing, and then I was cursing at the Iraqis,” Staggs said from his hospital bed at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. “We all realized we were all right.”
Staggs was one of four soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment wounded when a roadside bomb hit their Stryker on Oct. 21 in Baghdad. Five others in the Stryker escaped unscathed.
Stryker Soldiers, Iraqi National Police Improve Sadr City Schools
Click through for some nice photos as well.
By Sgt. Mike Pryor, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – The students in Shala Mikla’s class were supposed to be learning about biology. Instead, they got a lesson in cooperation.
That was what was on display when U.S. Soldiers and Iraqi national police officers visited Mikla’s classroom at the Al-Andalus Girl’s School in Baghdad’s Sadr City neighborhood to view recently completed renovations at the school, Oct. 31.
The renovations were part of a joint effort by the Ministry of Education, the local neighborhood councils, school officials, the Iraqi national police and the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, which operates in the Sadr City area of eastern Baghdad as part of the 82nd Airborne Division’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team.
Program Helps to Employ Iraqis, Improve Living Standards
2nd SCR soldiers were involved in this effort.
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq - A signing ceremony at the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office yesterday marked the start of a Multi-National Force-Iraq initiative to improve the living standards of area citizens through increased employment opportunities.
The Iraqi business, or I-BIZ, program aims to engage local contractors by hiring local Iraqis to perform supervised work on bases throughout the country.
"This is a great effort to employ local Iraqis and support our 'Iraqis First' policy. It combines our desire to appropriately demilitarize and dispose of items that are no longer economically repairable with our intent to put more Iraqis to work," said Brig. Gen. Steve Anderson, deputy chief of staff for resources and sustainment, during the kick-off ceremony.
Forces Rescue Kidnapped Sheiks in Northern Baghdad
WASHINGTON - Seven sheiks kidnapped in northern Baghdad two days ago were rescued by soldiers from 9th Iraqi Army Division during a mission yesterday.
The mission, supported by U.S. military advisors and Soldiers from both the 82nd Airborne Division and 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, resulted in the sheiks' rescue, the capture of four abductors and the death of three extremists. The body of an eighth sheik also was discovered at the scene.
The sheiks were taken to a nearby Iraqi army facility where they received medical attention. Several said they had been beaten with a tire iron. The sheiks also said that they have no doubt that their abductors were Shiite extremists.
"The execution of this mission shows how far Iraqi security forces have come," said Army Brig. Gen. John F. Campbell, deputy commanding general for maneuver for Multi-National Division - Baghdad. "The 9th Iraqi Army, led by General Riyadh, reacted very quickly to intelligence they received. They planned and then organized their forces, and executed a tough and precise mission with support from the coalition. They are well on their way to being the pre-eminent security force for the people of Iraq."
Photos & Videos
We haven't linked to any photo albums or videos at DVIDS recently featuring Stryker soldiers. You can view complete search results for photos and videos and work your way backwards to catch up with everything we've missed.
Soldiers Help Celebrate Sadr City School Renovation
Click through for photos.
By Sgt. Mike Pryor, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – When students at the Yarmook Girl’s School in Sadr City returned from summer vacation last month, they found that their school had received an extreme makeover, thanks to the government of Iraq and the U.S. Army.
U.S. Soldiers and Iraqi national police visited the recently renovated school to see the improvements and hand out backpacks and soccer balls to the students Oct. 22.
AFN broadcasts live from Iraq on Germany-based Stryker unit
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWÖHR, Germany — The American Forces Network aired its first live television broadcast from a combat zone last week — a report on morale and living conditions of soldiers from the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment serving in Baghdad.
The Oct. 11 broadcast featured AFN Bavaria reporter Staff Sgt. Jose Colon interviewing 2nd Cav soldiers, including the unit’s deputy commander, Lt. Col. Bryan Denny at Camp Liberty.
SPC Wayne M. Geiger
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Wayne M. Geiger, 23, of Lone Pine, Calif. died Oct 18 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and fellow soldiers during this time.
Related Articles:
Killed by an improvised explosive in Iraq - LA Times
MND-B Soldiers capture alleged extremist cell leader
By Staff Sgt. Jon Cupp, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Multi-National Division-Baghdad Soldiers captured an alleged high-ranking leader of an extremist cell along with three other suspected insurgents near Sab Al Bor, Iraq, Oct. 18.
During an operation to locate extremist members and gather information on the Al Qaeda in Iraq network, Soldiers from Battery C, Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, and Soldiers from Troop A, 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, worked in a concerted effort to capture the cell leader and three of his alleged accomplices.
Punch Back: Cav Soldiers Show Zero Tolerance for Attacks
Soldiers from the 1st Squadron were involved in this operation as well.
By Sgt. Mike Pryor, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – If the people in the Adhamiyah District’s Abu Hanifa Market hadn’t already heard about the afternoon’s grenade attack on a U.S. Soldier, they heard about it when Lt. Col. Jeff Broadwater showed up.
“Who threw the grenade!?” Broadwater shouted, stalking from shop to shop as an Apache gunship circled overhead. “Where are they? Show me where they are and I will take them out of here!”
Not half an hour before, a Soldier from Broadwater’s unit, the 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, had been wounded by a grenade thrown at his patrol. Now, in response, Broadwater was bringing the full weight of U.S. military to bear in the hunt for the culprits.
Stryker Troops Clearing East Rashid
Click through to see photos as well.
By Sgt. Mark B. Matthews, 27th Public Affairs Detachment
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – The sun begins to peak over the Baghdad horizon as the Soldiers slowly creep into the neighborhood. All of their weapons are loaded and all of their minds are focused on the day’s objective. Everything is eerily quiet and not a soul is seen on the trash-ridden streets, but they still keep a close watch on every corner, window and rooftop.
Soldiers with the Ghost Rider Company, 3rd Squadron “Wolf Pack,” 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, conducted clearing operations in neighborhoods of the East Rashid District in Baghdad, Oct 11.
Operation Dragon Talon II: Cache seizures made in Rashid
4th IBCT, 1st Inf. Div. Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – Despite Al Qaeda operatives burning down the house of an Iraqi civilian, Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Division-Baghdad troops continued Operation Dragon Talon II with numerous cache seizures in the southern portion of the Iraqi capital Oct. 10-14.
On Oct. 9, Soldiers from Nomad Company, 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, while conducting a combined patrol with Iraqi National Police in East Rashid, discovered the remains of a house that had been deliberately set on fire and burned to the ground. After talking with neighbors, troops discovered that the house belonged to a local school principal.
Stryker Cavalry Ridding Baghdad of Bombs, 'Bad Guys'
By David Mays, American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON - U.S. soldiers are sweeping through a Baghdad neighborhood to clear out explosives and extremists, a coalition commander said, Oct. 11.
"We've been working in the east Rashid district going after the bad guys and doing very, very well and trying to give a little hope to the Iraqis ... so they don't have to live in fear any more," Army Col. John RisCassi told online journalists and "bloggers" during a conference call from Iraq.
RisCassi commands 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, a rapid response mobile force deployed from Vilseck, Germany, and assigned to Multi-National Division-Baghdad. He and his soldiers are tasked with detecting and diffusing improvised explosive devices and destroying terror cells in a troubled community near Baghdad's heavily fortified International Zone.
CPL Gilberto A. Meza
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Gilberto A. Meza, 21, of Oxnard, Calif., died Oct. 6 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
The Strykernews family offers its condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
SPC Jason N. Marchand
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Jason N. Marchand, 26, of Greenwood, W. Va., died Oct. 5 in Baghdad of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit during combat operations. Marchand was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, in Vilseck, Germany.
We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones he leaves behind.
SGT Joseph B. Milledge
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Joseph B. Milledge, 23, of Pointblank, Texas, died Oct. 5 in Baghdad of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit during combat operations. Milledge was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, in Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and fellow soldiers.
Stryker Soldiers making East Rashid safer
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Troops from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment discovered several improvised explosive devices during clearing operations in the East Rashid District of the Iraqi capital Oct. 8.
The eastern Baghdad operations are aimed at clearing out the al-Qaeda in Iraq presence in the area.
Troops from Company H “Hawks” of 3rd Squadron, 2nd SCR found a command-wired 82mm mortar IED and a deep-buried IED in their sector, while the Company G “Ghost Riders” reported one IED exploding in their sector. There was no damage or casualties reported from that blast.
East Rashid mosque no longer al-Qaeda refuge
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Iraqi National Police and elements of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment conducted an operation on the Ahmad Al-Mukhtar Mosque in the East Rashid District of the Iraqi capital Oct. 6.
After receiving numerous tips from concerned citizens, it was determined that al-Qaeda in Iraq was using the abandoned mosque as an operational base for criminal activities including the planning of indirect fire and improvised explosive device attacks.
Iraqi National Police entered and searched the mosque while Coalition Forces provided exterior security. No U.S. forces entered the mosque.
The Iraqi Police ensured the mosque was carefully respected and while they did not find anything significant inside, there was evidence that al-Qaeda had been using it for meetings and weapons storage.
Doura residents evacuated for their protection, then returned
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers temporarily moved some residents from their southern Baghdad homes for safety reasons, while an explosive ordnance disposal team demolished the two abandoned buildings in East Rashid District Oct. 6.
“Buildings rigged to explode pose a danger to residents and security forces,” said Maj. Scott Pendell, a spokesperson for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, who are conducting clearing operations in East Rashid. “To leave these buildings standing would endanger the residents of East Rashid in the future.”
Market Opens With Promise of Safer Shopping
By SFC Kap Kim, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – Soldiers from the 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, along with members of the Karkh District Advisory Council helped officially open a market in Baghdad’s Karkh District, Sept. 30.
As Baghdad’s Karkh District enjoys an extended period of peace 2nd BCT, 1st Cav. Div., has started working on civic projects such as school, clinic, and market openings. One section of Karkh, called Sheik Ali, is predominantly a Sunni area surrounded by Shiites neighborhoods. And although the sectarian violence has all but stopped all over the Haifa Street area, the memories have kept many of the residents from traveling to markets throughout the rest of Karkh, according to Sumtner, S.C., native Capt. Vincent Morris, with Troop I, 4-2 SCR.
Operation nets six with ties to criminal militia activities
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers detained six men suspected of being involved in criminal militia activities during a targeted raid in Baghdad’s Sadr City neighborhood, early Oct. 4.
Paratroopers from the 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division and Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment conducted the operation aimed at capturing a criminal militia commander. No shots were fired and no injuries or property damage was reported.
The raid was the first operation conducted by 2nd BCT forces in Sadr City since Sep. 24, said Maj. Ed Brouse, an operations officer with the Falcon Brigade.
SPC Avealalo Milo
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Avealalo Milo, 23, of Hayward, Calif., died Oct. 4 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
We offer our condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
SGT Randell Olguin
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Randell Olguin, 24, of Ralls, Texas, died Sept. 30 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Everyone here would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and fellow soldiers.
SGT Robert T. Ayres III
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Robert T. Ayres III, 23, of Los Angeles, died Sept. 29 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.
SFC Randy L. Johnson
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. 1st Class Randy L. Johnson, 34, of Washington, died Sept. 27 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.
We offer our condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
Related Articles:
Fires Squadron Joins With Iraqi Army Medics
by Staff Sgt. Jon Cupp, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs
BASSAM, Iraq – Medical experts from the Fires “Hell” Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment teamed with Iraqi army health care professionals from the 2nd Brigade, 9th Iraqi Army Division (Mechanized), in a joint effort to bring health care to the residents in Bassam, Iraq, Sept. 27.
The Fires Squadron, attached to the 1st “Ironhorse” Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, coordinated the combined medical effort which also involved the participation of a doctor from the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, and medics from Charlie Medical Company, 115th Brigade Support Battalion.
Comrades Tackle First Month of Combat
By Spc. Jeffrey Ledesma, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – Two comrades with Company G, 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, stationed out of Vilseck, Germany, experiences the first of 15 months in their unit’s deployment as the Iraqi capital’s quick-reaction force.
Pfc. Reuben Gonzales and Spc. Daniel Liles’ first month on the ground was not exactly what they expected. For Gonzales, training back at home station was helpful, but a little different.
“We might get into direct contact every other day which is a lot different than what we trained for. We trained everyday, it was a constant ‘Go, go, go,’” Gonzales said of Modesto, Calif.
Stryker Soldiers Send Message to Insurgents
By Spc. Jeffrey Ledesma, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD - The essence of an insurgent-dominated neighborhood of the Iraqi capital's East Rashid District is evident as Soldiers weave through the desolate, maze-like streets peppered with improvised explosive devices. Several doors and gates are painted with evidence of a fanatic Muslim stronghold.
“In the name of God, I take back this house from the non-Muslim,” a Sunni interpreter reads from a gate. “Signed, al-Qaeda in Iraq.”
Despite the dangers that linger behind street corners and on rooftops, the Vilseck, Germany-based 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, currently with Multi-National Division – Baghdad, wanted to send a clear message to the insurgency Sept. 20.
Counterinsurgency in al Qaeda’s last bastion in Baghdad
Bill Roggio of The Long War Journal is currently in Iraq and spent some time with the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. His recently published dispatch, "Counterinsurgency in al Qaeda’s last bastion in Baghdad" is certainly the most detailed reporting of the 2nd SCR's operations since they arrived in country. Excerpt:
Commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Rod Coffey, the Wolfpack of the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment arrived in Baghdad in August and assumed control of the battlespace in a dangerous segment of Doura on September 7. The Wolfpack’s area of operation consists of the neighborhoods of Shurta, Asiya, and Mechanics, which are nestled in the far eastern corner of the Rashid district. (Rashid was split into Bayaa and Doura for the purpose of the Baghdad Security Plan.)The three neighborhoods are divided by long strips of open space, each several hundred meters across and run north to south. Shurta and Asiya are described as relatively safe after the Wolfpack cleared the two neighborhoods upon arrival. Residents “are supportive and provide tips,” Coffey said while on patrol in the neighborhoods.
US forces believe these the Mechanics neighborhood is one of the last bastions of al Qaeda in Iraq inside Baghdad. “Al Qaeda coerces the population in Mechanics,” said Coffey. The Iraqi Army and Coalition forces left the Shurta, Asiya, and Mechanics neighborhoods three months ago, and security deteriorated. US forces were moved into the Doura neighborhoods to the north to clear al Qaeda cells after the terrorist group declared Doura to be the capital of Islamic State of Iraq inside Baghdad.
SPC Aaron J. Walker
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Aaron J. Walker, 23, of Harker Heights, Texas, died Sept. 18 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire during combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Vilseck, Germany.
We offer our condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
As the 2nd Cavalry operates in Baghdad, families receive much-needed knowledge
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany — The 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment’s rear detachment members are getting information out to family members still in Germany as the unit suffers its first wounded soldiers in Iraq.
Spokesman Maj. Richard Spiegel confirmed Monday that a small number of 2nd Cav soldiers were wounded in action weeks after the unit arrived in Iraq to start a 15-month mission.
2nd SCR's Iron Company Gets Boots on the Ground
By Spc. Alexis Harrison, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – Patrolling the streets of the Iraqi capital is common to just about any cavalry squadron, infantry battalion, troop or company. Now add in regular rotations through a coalition outpost, where you live next door to the local populous, and you have what many leaders call a "projection of force" to deter would-be terrorists from inhabiting quiet neighborhoods.
Company I, 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment from Vilseck, Germany, is only about a month into their tour, but have already been tasked with running Combat Outpost "Remagen" and patrolling the streets of the Karkh District in central Baghdad.
Dragons & Dragoons begin Operation Dragon Talon II in Rashid
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD — Multi-National Division-Baghdad Soldiers and Iraqi Army troops captured four suspected terrorists in the first day of Operation Dragon Talon II. The operation kicked off in the southern part of the Iraqi capital in the early morning hours of Sept. 16 with targeted raids against terrorist suspects.
Troops from the 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment “Dragoons” and 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team “Dragons,” 1st Infantry Division worked together to conduct clearing operations and make the arrests.
'Dragoons' Unfurl Colors in Baghdad
Follow the link for a few photos as well.
By Spc. L.B. Edgar, 7th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – The 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment (SCR) “Dragoons” replaced the 3rd “Arrowhead” Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division as the quick-reaction force for the Iraqi capital Sept. 13, allowing the Arrowhead Soldiers to return home to Fort Lewis, Wash., after more than 15 months of combat.
A casing of the colors event marked the completion of the transfer of authority at the headquarters building of 2nd SCR at this western Baghdad base camp.
Stryker Squadron Arrives in Support of Black Jack Brigade in Baghdad
The 2nd Stryker CR is starting to get some press as they begin to operate in country.
by Spc. Alexis Harrison, 2nd BCT, 1st Cav Public Affairs
FORWARD OPERATING BASE PROSPERITY, Iraq – For many of the Soldiers in the "Saber" Squadron, this isn't their first tour in Iraq. Many remember the days they spent in Mosul and Tel Afar under much harsher conditions than what they found inside the walls of Forward Operating Bases Prosperity and Union III where the squadron will be headquartered.
Now they have begun another rotation into Iraq. The 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment has assumed responsibility from the 1st Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, currently attached to the 2nd “Black Jack” Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, of the Karkh District area in Baghdad’s center, where heavy fighting against anti-Iraqi forces took place earlier this year.
New Remote Weapon Systems for Stryker
By MSG Michele R. Hammonds, 1st Sustainment Command
CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – Members of the 2nd (Stryker) Cavalry Regiment recently became the first Army unit to have the new Remote Weapon Systems refitted and mounted on their Stryker vehicles.
The RWS is the Army’s latest advancement in weapon systems. The system has a new laser range finder for its .50-caliber mounted machine gun. Before 2nd SCR Soldiers deployed to Iraq the new systems were mounted on Strykers in Germany and Kuwait.
From fighters to family men
This is the first article I've seen mentioning the 2nd Stryker CR's presence in country.
By Sharon Behn, The Washington Times
BAGHDAD — Thoughts have turned to home and family for soldiers in the 2-3 Stryker Brigade Combat Team, one of the first units set to complete extended deployments ordered by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates to meet demands of the U.S. troop surge.
The conversation in the evening darkness outside the soldiers' "hooches," or where they live, is focusing more on wives and children, buying new trucks and that first cold beer.
2nd Cavalry Regiment Articles
Provided below are links to a couple recent news articles we just found.
- With spouses deploying, some 2nd Cav families want to go back to the States - Stars & Stripes
- Officials: New live-fire training doesn’t pose increased risk - Stars & Stripes
Strykers loaded up, begin journey to Iraq
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWÖHR, Germany — Less than a year after arriving in Germany, the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment already is on its way out of town.
Last weekend, Cav soldiers began loading the more than 300 Stryker armored personnel carriers onto trains at Grafenwöhr for the long land and sea journey to Kuwait. Final destination: Iraq.
Stryker soldiers learn Iraq ropes in ‘The Box’
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
HOHENFELS, Germany — More than 3,500 soldiers from the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment are scouring the training area here for “insurgents” and doing bilateral meetings with Arabic-speaking role-players as part of an exercise that will prepare them for a 15-month mission to Iraq.
Joint Multinational Training Command spokesman Maj. Eric Bloom said the soldiers, who leave Vilseck for Iraq in August, will be in training area, called, “The Box,” this week and next along with 500 Arabic-speaking civilian role-players as well as soldiers from the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany.
Hohenfels-based Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment and members of the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police are also participating.
2nd Cav bound for Iraq, exact spot uncertain
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
HOHENFELS, Germany — When it deploys to Iraq in August, the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment will replace 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, which recently moved from Mosul to Baghdad.
The 3rd “Arrowhead” Brigade is working in Baghdad alongside Iraqi forces and extra U.S. troops brought in as part of the “surge” to try to calm sectarian violence.
Lt. Col. Bryan Denny, deputy commander of 2nd Cav, (which, before it was renamed last year, was the 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division) said Thursday that the regiment is used to following in the footsteps of 3rd Brigade, which also uses eight-wheeled Stryker armored personnel carriers.
Army struts Stryker’s stuff
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWÖHR, Germany — The U.S. Army got a chance to show off its Stryker armored personnel carrier this week to delegates from the 56-member Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
A 1999 agreement called the the Vienna Document requires members of the organization, which includes the U.S., to demonstrate major weapons within a year of their deployment in Europe, U.S. Army Europe public affairs officer Bruce Anderson said.
Vilseck businesses brace for deployment
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany — Shops, bars and restaurants here are bracing themselves for hard times while 3,500 soldiers from the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment are in Iraq.
Last week, the Department of Defense announced that 10 brigades, including 2nd Cav and Baumholder’s 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, will deploy to Iraq between August and December. Vilseck Mayor Hans-Martin Schertl said Tuesday that 2nd Cav officials told him they will deploy in August for 15 months.
2nd Cavalry will rehearse at Hohenfels for mission in Iraq
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany — The 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment will conduct a mission rehearsal exercise in June at Hohenfels’ Joint Multinational Readiness Center to prepare troops for deployment to Iraq in August.
On Tuesday, the Department of Defense announced that 10 brigades, including 2nd Cav and Baumholder’s 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, will deploy to Iraq between August and December.
Maj. Jon Pendell, a 2nd Cav spokesman, said Wednesday that the unit is equipped, trained and ready to deploy.
DoD Announces Force Adjustments
The 2nd Cavalry Regiment (Stryker) is on the list of scheduled deployments announced by the Pentagon, as is the 2/25 SBCT.
The Department of Defense announced today additional major units scheduled to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The announcement involves 10 brigade combat teams consisting of approximately 35,000 personnel.
These units will deploy as replacement forces for formations currently operating in Iraq. The deployment window for these units will begin in August 2007 and continue through the end of the year.
These deployments will provide commanders in Iraq the flexibility to maintain the appropriate level of effort based on their assessment of the security situation on the ground.
2nd Cavalry soldiers go for blood-donor record
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWÖHR, Germany — Officials are expecting some 800 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment soldiers to give blood this week in an effort to break the U.S. Army Europe record for a blood drive.
The soldiers’ efforts come at just the right time for comrades downrange, according to Maj. Matthew Rice, 36, the 2nd Cav medical officer, who is overseeing his unit’s participation in the drive.
2nd Cavalry gets a sports bar to call home
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany — The ratio was overwhelming — 50 guys to two women — at Vilseck’s new on-post sports bar.
The Zone, which opened Jan. 4, fills what used to be an auditorium inside the Langenbruk Center — a large building near the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment headquarters at Vilseck. It includes numerous flat-screen televisions above the bar and around the room. There are various amusements, other than beer, that range from basketball shooting games to pool tables. The decor includes dim lighting and larger than life posters of sporting icons.
Strykers Shift to High at Grafenwoehr
Arthur McQueen, Army News Service
Grafenwoehr, Germany -- Mud, rain and cold challenge every Soldier who trains here. But as troops from the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment from Vilseck challenged themselves, moving from individual to platoon-level live fire training, they proved that U.S. Army, Europe's newest has what it takes to overcome anything "the Box" at the Joint Multinational Training Command can bring.
Following several months of staff planning, individual and squad training, the Stryker Soldiers, many of whom are new to the Army, spent several weeks practicing for the Dec. 13 day and night platoon-level defensive maneuvers, followed up with a counterattack, all supported by mortar fire integral to the unit.
Coffeehouse to serve up java, music for 2nd Cavalry
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany — A drop-in center here will soon allow 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment soldiers to relax, watch sports, play video games, read and listen to music in a nonalcoholic, smoke-free environment.
This week, Chaplain (Maj.) Samuel Lee, along with unit spouses, renovated a 4,500-square-foot former hospital building to serve as a coffeehouse.
Burger wars: Stryker burger renamed
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany Earlier this year, the staff at the base bowling alley decided to rename their juicy 10-ounce hamburger as a way to welcome the newly arrived soldiers of the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment.
Trouble is, some Army officials, as well as soldiers from other units, found the Stryker Burger a little hard to swallow.
Soldiers getting caught in housing crunch
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany Demand for housing from incoming soldiers and civilians has forced Army officials to expand their search area.
Last month, the garrisons housing office ditched a plan to house new arrivals within a 30-minute drive of post and is now offering troops homes as far as 45 minutes away, said Dwane Watsek, Grafenwhr director of public works.
Stryker unit welcomed to new home in Vilseck
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany The 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment could deploy out of Europe once its soldiers are trained, U.S. Army Europe and 7th Army commander Gen. David D. McKiernan said Friday at a welcome home ceremony for the unit.
McKiernan, along with U.S. Ambassador to Germany William R Timken Jr., Bavarian Minister-President Edmund Stoiber, 1st Armored Division commander Maj. Gen. Fred D. Robinson Jr., many other high-ranking U.S. and German officials and more than 3,000 2nd Cav soldiers attended the ceremony to uncase the units colors at Vilseck Army Airfield.
U.S. Armys Stryker brigade makes new home in Germany
VILSECK, Germany - The U.S. Army welcomed the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment to its new home in southern Germany on Friday as the military moved ahead with plans to shed its heavy Cold War divisions in favor of a lighter, more mobile force.
The brigade has been moving into the Vilseck area over the last three months, bringing an agile, flexible force in to Germany to replace the 1st Infantry Division and 1st Armored Divisions.
2nd Cav honors soldier who died during PT
Our thoughts and prayers and with PFC Dehle's family and friends.
Link to Full Article
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany Soldiers of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment said goodbye Monday to a comrade who died during physical training last week.
Pfc. Matthew C. Dehle, a Stryker armored personnel carrier driver with Company E, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, died Wednesday during a hill run, according to soldiers from his unit.
Does Grafenwhr festival have 'the best beer ever'?
Link to Article
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany The 2nd Cavalry Regiments newly arrived Stryker armored personnel carriers are the stars of the show at the 49th German-American Volksfest expected to draw 70,000 people here this weekend.
Several variants of the Stryker are on display alongside a range of German military hardware at the festival, which started Friday and ends Sunday at Grafenwhrs Camp Kasserine.
2nd Cavalry troops snapping up bikes at Vilseck
Link to Full Article
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany Bike builders here are working long hours to keep up with demand from 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment soldiers who are buying 100 bicycles a week.
Bike builder Brian Jansma, who works for Cycle Tech, the contractor that assembles bikes for the Army and Air Force Exchange Service at Vilseck, said three part-time staff members are working extra hours to assemble 30 bikes a day. The contractor is looking for more bike builders to help meet demand, he said.
Grafenwhr consolidated exchange manager Matt Mennona said sales of bikes at Vilseck have increased tenfold since the Strykers started arriving two months ago. A total of 3,500 2nd Cav soldiers will be at Vilseck by October.
First Strykers rumble into Vilseck
Link to Full Article (Photos included)
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany Sixty battle-hardened veterans arrived here by train on Friday.
They are Stryker armored personnel carriers, the first of 300 such vehicles that will be delivered to the newly arrived 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment on three trains over the next week.
The nicks and scratches on some of the Strykers are reminders that the eight-wheeled vehicles saw combat when 2nd Cav then of the 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division deployed to Iraq from October 2004 to October 2005.
Fort Lewis Stryker vehicles arrive in Germany
Link to Full Article
By DAVID RISING
Associated Press Writer
BERLIN (AP) -- The first U.S. Army Stryker armored fighting vehicles rolled onto German soil Monday, a key part of the military's move to shed its heavy Cold War divisions in favor of a lighter more mobile force.
A ship from Washington state carrying the first 120 of the brigade's approximately 300 vehicles arrived in the northern port of Bremerhaven on Saturday and began unloading its cargo Monday morning for shipment by rail to the unit's new headquarters in the southern town of Vilseck.
Vilseck residents hot and bothered
Link to Full Article
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany A ban on air conditioners in on-post housing was the top complaint voiced at a town hall meeting Wednesday that focused on newly arrived 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment soldiers.
Several hundred people attended the meeting, which included question-and-answer sessions with officials representing such organizations as Morale, Welfare and Recreation, U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwhr and the Directorate of Public Works.
Soldiers pair with Germans for machine gun training
Link to Full Article
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany Soldiers from the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment sent hot lead down a German range Tuesday for the first time, weeks after arriving from Fort Lewis, Wash.
A dozen soldiers from the regiments Headquarters and Headquarters Troop traveled to Gailoh, a German small-arms range near Amberg, to fire machine guns alongside troops from the German armys 12th Panzer (tank) Brigade.
Vilseck spouses learn shopping route
Link to Full Article
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany Newly-arrived 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment spouses say shortages of some items at the local post exchange are forcing them to look off-post.
On Friday, about 20 Stryker spouses checked out shops in Amberg, the closest large town to Vilseck, during a Welcome to Bavaria field trip. The trip was part of a series of nine, three-day classes given by Army Community Services for spouses of 2nd Cav soldiers. The classes will run through September.
2nd Cavalry soldiers go virtual at Vilseck
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Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany Soldiers from the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment have hit the ground running theyre training on a virtual reality combat simulator here just weeks after arriving in Germany.
Thirty soldiers from Company A, 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment fired mock M-16 rifles and M-249 machine guns at projected images of enemy troops at Vilsecks Warrior Marksmanship Training Facility on Wednesday.
Transformation swelling ranks at Grafenwhr, Vilseck
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By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany The influx of 3,500 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment soldiers to Vilseck is having a flow-on effect on nearby Grafenwhr, where officials expect the population to soon be more than double what it was last year.
In an interview Thursday, a year to the day after he took command at U.S Army Garrison Grafenwhr, Col. Brian T. Boyle said he expected 1,000 additional soldiers to be at Grafenwhr by the end of summer.
Stryker regiment set to partner with German troops
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By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany The newly arrived 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment will partner with the German armys 12th Panzer (Tank) Brigade a union that will see the units train alongside each other, share training areas and build personal and professional relationships.
A total of 25 2nd Cav soldiers joined several hundred 12th Panzer troops for a march through the countryside around Amberg on Thursday that included Christian prayer and hymn. The bulk of the 6,000-man German unit is deployed to Kosovo and due to return home in the fall, said Bernd-Dieter Koslowski, 12th Panzer Brigade rear detachment commander.
Stryker soldiers learning about life in their new home, Germany
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By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany Spaghetti ice cream is one of the European culinary delights 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment soldiers learned about during Head Start classes at Vilseck Elementary School this week.
We tell them it is frozen spaghetti but actually it is just vanilla ice cream that we put through a press so it looks like spaghetti, explained Head Start teacher Nina Kuhn, one of a group of instructors running 10 classes a week at the school for 3,500 2nd Cav troops, who started to arrive here in bulk from Fort Lewis, Wash., this week.
Army units trade names, flags
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MICHAEL GILBERT, The News Tribune
The 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division is on its way out of Fort Lewis, headed for Germany and its taking the identity of one of its sister units with it.
At a ceremony today, the 2nd Cavalry Regiment, the oldest continuously serving regiment in the U.S. Army, will surrender its name, colors and lore to the 1-25 in a reflagging ceremony at Fort Lewis.
Class prepares Stryker GIs for all things German
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By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany Dont fondle the fruit and dont tip the waiters.
The soldiers of the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment are getting a crash course on all things German.
First of 3,200 Stryker soldiers arrive at Vilseck
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By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
VILSECK, Germany The first big influx of soldiers who will become the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment arrived Wednesday, charged with paving the way for hundreds more who will arrive over the next month.
A total of 180 soldiers, accompanied by family members and pets, got off the bus at Vilseck after a 10-hour charter flight from Fort Lewis, Wash. Ultimately, the regiment will include 3,200 soldiers.
Army looking for room to let Strykers roam
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By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany The imminent arrival of land-hungry Stryker armored personnel carriers has the range staff at Grafenwhr Training Area looking for some wide-open spaces.
Providing enough training room for the ultra-mobile, eight-wheeled vehicles was one of several topics discussed at a workshop in Amberg this week, according to Nate Whelan, the U.S. Army Europe Integrated Training Areas Management program manager.
New Stryker model tooled for detection
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By Christian Hill, THE OLYMPIAN
FORT LEWIS Soldiers have welcomed the newest member of the Stryker family of vehicles.
The 2nd Cavalry Regiment recently received three vehicles that can detect radiation or biological and chemical hazards while keeping the soldiers safe inside.
Newest Stryker fielded
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By Matthew Cox, Army Times
The Army has fielded the Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicle the latest variant to the Stryker vehicle series.
Soldiers from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash., received the first three NBCRV Strykers in February, according to an Army press release.
The NBCRV is designed to locate, mark and report NBC contamination on the battlefield. It can detect and collect contaminated material on the move and automatically transmit digital NBC warning messages to warn follow-on forces.
The NBCRV vehicle is the ninth Stryker variant to be added to the Army inventory.
First wave of Stryker soldiers to arrive at Grafenwhr in May
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By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany The first of 3,100 soldiers from the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment and another 5,500 family members will arrive in Vilseck next month, the Army has announced.
The Stryker brigade, which the Army previously said would arrive some time over summer, is preparing to leave its base at Fort Lewis, Wash., with the advance party touching down in Germany in the second week of May, 2nd Cav public affairs officer Maj. Jon Pendell said Wednesday.
From Fort Lewis to Germany, here they come
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By MIKE BARBER, P-I REPORTER
FORT LEWIS -- For two days this week, Stryker armored infantry carriers were abandoned for strollers, diaper bags replaced combat rucksacks, and military intelligence homed in on housing and schools.
An entire population of 6,000 to 7,000 people, roughly the size of Duvall or Gig Harbor, is packing up and moving permanently -- jobs, equipment, spouses, kids, cars, even pets -- to Germany this summer.
20-mile trail at Grafenwhr is part of Stryker preparation
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By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany A 20-mile troop marching trail will allow infantrymen from the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment to march from range to range when they arrive at Vilseck this summer.
The trail is one of many training facilities being developed at Grafenwhr Training Area as the Joint Multinational Training Command (JMTC) prepares to welcome the Strykers.
Stryker scouts give favorable report on Vilseck
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By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
GRAFENWHR, Germany Facilities here impressed an advance party from the 2nd Cavalry (Stryker) Regiment, which is due to move to nearby Vilseck from Fort Lewis, Wash., this summer.
Grafenwhr Garrison officials, who also oversee Vilseck, are hard at work preparing for the regiment also known as the Stryker Brigade Combat Team which includes more than 3,500 soldiers and thousands of family members.
They ride steel steeds now
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MICHAEL GILBERT; The News Tribune
Over the last 30 years, the Army has had units it called cavalry travel to the fight by helicopter, tank, Humvee, armored personnel carrier and even parachute.
So whats the big deal now that theyre putting The Cav in Strykers?
No problem at all, said retired Maj. Gen. Robert Wagner.
New Stryker Brigade
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CHRISTIAN HILL, THE OLYMPIAN
FORT LEWIS -- It has waged war in nearly every U.S. military conflict, from fighting Indians on the Western plains to assisting the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq.
But the 2nd Cavalry Regiment, the longest-serving regiment in the U.S. Army, isn't resting on its storied laurels as it's welcomed back to Fort Lewis on Thursday. It was stationed at the Army post for a year in 1992-93.
Fort Polk honors 2nd ACR before departure to Lewis
FORT POLK -- Brigadier General Michael D. Barbero, commanding general of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk, will host a monument dedication ceremony honoring the Troopers and the families of the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment for their dedicated service and support as the Regiment ends its duty at Fort Polk.
The ceremony is being held today, Feb. 24, 10:30 a.m., at the 5ID Memorial Park located across from Fort Polk's Main Post Chapel.[...]
The Regiment's Colors are being moved to Fort Lewis, Washington, where the 2d Armored Cavalry Regiment (Light) will re-designate to the 2d Cavalry Regiment Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT) as part of Army transformation. [...]
Barbero to honor 2nd ACR at Thursday ceremony
The 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment will soon case its colors at Fort Polk, LA, and move to its new home at Fort Lewis. Upon arrival the 2nd ACR will be renamed, and will become the third SBCT to be based at Fort Lewis.
FORT POLK -- Brig. Gen. Michael D. Barbero, commanding general of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk, will host a monument dedication honoring the Troopers and the families of the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment for their dedicated service and support as the Regiment ends its duty at Fort Polk. [...]
The Regiment's Colors are being moved to Fort Lewis, Washington, where the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (Light) will re-designate to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT) as part of Army transformation.
Related Article: Fort Polk honors 2nd ACR before departure to Lewis - Leesville Leader
