DoD Daily News

I moved to Rosemary's Thoughts

2007-12-31T23:06:00.000-08:00

I will be moving the articles already written here to Rosemary's Thoughts. They will not disappear. When I have moved them, I will leave the title with a link to the article for which you are searching. They will now be at Rosemary's Thoughts.

DoD Daily News-2 will remain the same as it is until I move that one, also, to Rosemary's Thoughts. It carries the full text of articles that are sent to me by CentCom, MNF-I, CJTA-HOA, press releases and news reports, along with any news I come across.

It has truly been an honor serving you, my readers, and I pray for brighter days and a better world. God bless you, and take care. Oh yeah, come visit me over at my new site! :)

Update: Please scroll down to read Bos'un and Debbie's articles. Just because I'm moving, doesn't mean the site is closing. Sorry for that wrong impression! Have a great day. :)

Announcement

2007-12-31T15:54:00.000-08:00

If there's not much news here, please go to DoD Daily News-2. I always work there first. Thank you.

Operation 'Appeal for Courage'

2007-12-31T08:09:00.000-08:00

Follow this link to learn about this petition and decide if it is for you. Thank you.

Commander Says Iraqi Citizens Turning Against Insurgents

2007-08-25T21:14:00.001-07:00

Courtesy of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Multi-National Force Iraq

Saturday, 25 August 2007

Multi-National Division-Baghdad and 1st Cavalry Division commander, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Joseph F. Fil Jr. (front), accompanied by U.S. Army Lt. Col. James W. Phillips (right), commander of the 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, tours the Palestine Market in the Rusafa District of eastern Baghdad. Over 1,800 barriers have been emplaced in the market since May 1, making the area more secure. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. W. Wayne Marlow, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division Public Affairs.

BAGHDAD — Iraqis who once aligned themselves with militants are now taking up arms against al-Qaeda, a top commander in the Iraqi capital said during a conference call Friday.

Likening members of terrorist organizations to “street gangsters,” U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Joseph Fil, commander of Multi-National Division-Baghdad and 1st Cavalry Division, said Iraqis are becoming tired of price gouging on staples such as gasoline and ice when militant groups move in and take over neighborhoods.

“We have found that throughout the city there is increasing distrust, fatigue and disillusionment by the population with al-Qaeda and Jaysh al-Mahdi (militia group),” he said. “There is a strong desire in the neighborhoods to turn away from them.”

Fil said Coalition troops are continuing to take away the enemy’s ability to control neighborhoods and to brutalize the population.

“Every day we’re working with Iraqi Security Forces and the Iraqi government to place power back in the legitimate hands of the average Iraqi civilian,” the general said.

Local citizens are more openly embracing Iraqi Security Forces and are beginning to respect and trust their fellow citizens in uniform, he added.

Now 10 months into their deployment, Fil said troops of the 1st Cavalry Division are fully integrated and “up to speed” with surge operations. “The division continues to excel in this campaign as we try to bring security and stability to the Iraqi capital,” he said, as he described that more than 50 percent of Baghdad is in the “control” or “retain” phase of the overall Baghdad security plan.

In a February briefing, Fil described the mission in Baghdad as “clear, control and retain.” In the “clear” phase of a mission, Iraqi and U.S. forces move into neighborhoods and clear out extremist elements. In the “control” phase, the combined forces maintain a full-time presence on the streets, Fil explained. The forces will man combined security stations, which are being built all over the city, and will work to establish conditions that allow Iraqi forces to take over operations completely.

The “retain” phase comes when Iraqi forces are responsible for day-to-day security operations and Coalition forces can move out of the neighborhoods and into areas where they can respond if assistance is needed.

Fil also said fewer innocent Iraqis are being murdered as a result of sectarian violence, and statistics show murders are at their lowest level since the beginning of surge operations.

“Markets that were once targets by indiscriminant killers are now safer and thriving,” the general said. “And more and more Iraqis are turning from the ‘rule of gun’ to the ‘rule of law.’”

The last several months have been challenging, Fil said. “And I don’t expect things to get any easier in the months ahead, but I do fully expect to see the same steady progress that we and the Iraqi Security Forces have made in bringing stability to neighborhood by neighborhood throughout Baghdad.”

(Story by Carmen L. Gleason, American Forces Press Service)

In other developments throughout Iraq:

• Iraqi citizens and police fought back against an al-Qaeda attack on two villages near Kana’an early Thursday morning, brought on because the villagers had begun assisting Iraqi Security Forces in pushing the terrorist group out of the area.

• Multi-National Division-Baghdad troops were engaged with small arms and machine gun fire by illegal militiamen while searching for a cache in a northwestern neighborhood of the Iraqi capital Thursday.

CENTCOM Meets with Saudi King Abdullah

2007-08-23T00:39:00.001-07:00

US CENTCOM chief meets Saudi king

Saudi King Abdullah met on Tuesday with the visiting head of the US Central Command, Admiral William Fallon, the official SPA news agency reported.

The United States recently announced it has put together an arms package worth at least 20 billion dollars over 10 years for Saudi Arabia, saying the sale is meant to defend the kingdom against Iran, which Washington believes is working to acquire nuclear weapons.

For the rest of the story, US CENTCOM chief meets Saudi king

Duncan to appear at Freedom Concert in San Diego

2007-07-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

If you are going to the Freedom Concert in San Diego on the 26th of July, you may run into Congressman Duncan Hunter who will be making a special appearance! If you haven't already, you may get your tickets from here.

It would be great if you could come early and stop by Duncan's San Diego Headquarters. It would very nice if we could show him our gratitude for the fence that he DID get up, and also show support for his campaign. You could also wear a Hunter for President t-shirt! They are only $30 or a cap which is $20.

I hope everyone has a very great time. Remember, the true reason for this concert is to honor our Fallen Angels and their children. Don't let these politics or politicians get in the way of that!

However, for more information about Duncan Hunter, please call the office at 619-463-3896. GO HUNTER!

1st Cav Soldiers Sing Toby Keith's "Beer For My Horses"

2007-07-23T05:08:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

There is just no way I could let this one slide by! LOL. Blackfive has captured the essense of the fighting spirit in this clip. I love this song by Toby Keith!

Blackfive's Video Potpourri

2007-07-23T04:56:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's Thoughts.

This first video will last 4:05, and I'm not quite sure if they rescued one of the guys being held or if he was one of the insurgence. Maybe you could help me understand? The name of this clip is "Operation Ithaca - The Fight." (Do not worry. You will not be seeing anything gross.)

In this next clip comes the answer to my question! This clip is 7:59, and the title of it is "Operation Ithaca - Interview." They were successful in this mission, killing 29 and capturing 23 of the enemy. They also rescued 8 hostages who were about to be executed on the day of the mission. Whew! That was close.

This clip is 3:11, and it's title is "AH-64 and C-130 Engage Insurgents." Five insurgents are killed in this one by none other than our USAF! Great job, guys. :)

These next two clips sort of go together, if not by nature then by name. This one is 32 seconds long, and the title is "Crispy Terrorists on the July 14th Menu." It is almost like watching a silent movie, except it is real life...or death to the terrorists as I like to put it. The next clip is titled "Crispy Terrorists on the July 15th Menu" and lasts for 58 seconds.

And to say that the last one is the least one would be an incredibly wrong assumption! This young lady sends it home as to why a Soldier would serve. Here she tells us why she serves. Why I Serve - SSG Shannon Fezer. This clip only lasts for 1:02, yet I wish it were longer. It is people such as she who make me proud to be an American. If you cannot understand this genuine concept, please don't tell me. I don't care if you're a nutjob, just don't prove it on my site! :)

I received these videos through my subscription. You may also subscribe if you wish. You may do so by clicking here. Have a great day, and remember our men and women in uniform who are protecting this freedom for you to have such a day. Maybe you could even send up a prayer or two...

Kites are introduced to Afghani children; loving it!

2007-07-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

This is one of those stories that touched my heart so warmly. Many people look at our Soldiers and see only brutes or men ready to kill you if you look at them wrongly. This is the furthest from the truth. They do not understand the ROE (Rules of Engagement). Many people have no idea about life in the military, this is the story for you.

Let me see if I find just one paragraph to entice you. This seems like the right one:

"It seems like time stopped here 2,000 years ago," said Polish Pfc. Chris Demko, a gunner on one of the giant Rosomak armored personnel carriers. "We see these kids running around with nothing, not even shoes, and we want to change that." [The Real Kite Runners flying the Afghan Skies.]

Bravo for the Polish Soldiers! It just goes to show that loving children and humanity does not stop at our waters edge. :)

Big guns play big role in E. Afghan

2007-07-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

This is one cool article. I know. I'm sick for thinking it is cool to know that our men can kill so many of our ENEMIES, right? YOU'RE READING THE WRONG SITE! Go away! lol.

I love it! Check out this paragraph:

"It's not like the previous wars when they lined up and we would mow them down," said Mantle. "Fires have a lot of different effects. When we fire the 155s from here, the enemy doesn't hear the round coming in. It immediately puts the enemy on the defensive and has a tremendous demoralizing effect." [Big guns play big part in eastern Afghanistan.]

Give them all the guns they need, then give them about twice that! Let's kick butt!

Pilots down for 1/2 hour surrounded by insurgents

2007-07-22T09:52:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

Have you ever read an article that made you just want to know more but knew you couldn't? This is one of those for me. Here we have two pilots that are shot down in Iraq surrounded by insurgents, and it took around half an hour for them to be rescued. For half an hour! What did the rescue team find when they did arrive? Not a single injuring! That is the kind of movie I would pay to see, but I am not quite sure I could stand the vocabulary that may have transpired duing this ordeal. lol. Check it out at Downed Pilots Endure 30 Minutes of Intensity Before Rescue. Have a great day.

Hitting Hillary's letter out of the ballpark again, Uncle Jimbo!

2007-07-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

Reading all the threats everyday that this country is facing, sure can get to a person. That is why Uncle Jimbo is such a great guy. I can always count on him to lift my spirits. He has the right words at the right time to apply to right people. You just have to read his take on Hillary's question given to the Defense Department. He is spot-on!

Would you like to know the question? Okay, here it is:

Dear Mr. Secretary:

On May 22, 2007, I wrote to you to request that you provide the appropriate oversight committees in Congress - including the Senate Armed Services Committee - with briefings on what current contingency plans exist for the future withdrawal of United States forces from Iraq. Alternatively, if no such plans exist, I asked for an explanation for the decision not to engage in such planning.

I am in receipt of a letter from Eric Edelman, the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy who wrote that he was responding on your behalf. Under Secretary Edelman's response did not address the issues raised in my letter and instead made spurious arguments to avoid addressing contingency planning for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq.

As I noted in my original letter, "the seeds of many problems that continue to plague our troops and mission in Iraq were planted in the failure to adequately plan for the conflict and properly equip our men and women in uniform. Congress must be sure that we are prepared to withdraw our forces without any unnecessary danger."

Rather than offer to brief the congressional oversight committees on this critical issue, Under Secretary Edelman - writing on your behalf - instead claims that congressional oversight emboldens our enemies. Under Secretary Edelman has his priorities backward. Open and honest debate and congressional oversight strengthens our nation and supports our military. His suggestion to the contrary is outrageous and dangerous. Indeed, you acknowledged the importance of Congress in our Iraq policy at a hearing before the House Armed Services Committee in March, when you stated, "I believe that the debate here on the Hill and the issues that have been raised have been helpful in bringing pressure to bear on the Maliki government and on the Iraqis in knowing that there is a very real limit to American patience in this entire enterprise."

Redeploying out of Iraq will be difficult and requires careful planning. I continue to call on the Bush Administration to immediately provide a redeployment strategy that will keep our brave men and women safe as they leave Iraq - instead of adhering to a political strategy to attack those who rightfully question their competence and preparedness after years of mistakes and misjudgments.

Other members of this Administration have not engaged in political attacks when the prospect of withdrawal planning has been raised. At the June 7 Armed Services Committee confirmation hearing on Lieutenant General Douglas Lute, I asked General Lute "what level of planning has taken place" and "whether the Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs have been briefed about the level of planning." I also asked General Lute to determine "what kind of timeline would exist if a decision for either military or political reasons were taken to begin withdrawal" and if he considered this kind of planning to be part of his responsibilities.

General Lute replied, "Thank you Senator. I do think such an adaptation, if the conditions on the ground call for it, will be part of this position."

I renew my request for a briefing, classified if necessary, on current plans for the future withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq or an explanation for the decision not to engage in such planning. I also renew my concern that our troops will be placed in unnecessary danger if the Bush Administration fails to plan for the withdrawal of U.S. Forces. Finally, I request that you describe whether Under Secretary Edelman's letter accurately characterizes your views as Secretary of Defense.

I would appreciate the courtesy of a prompt response directly from you. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely yours,

Hillary Rodham Clinton

(Hat tip: MyDD. Be careful. It's a 'Leftie for Hillary' site I got it from. lol)

If you will notice, her letter to him was released for publication. Was his? I don't know, but I doubt it. (Won't swear to it, though.) Anyway, I thought Uncle Jimbo handled this just fine. Yes, fine indeed. Go over and have a great laugh and a great day!

Delayed, but only a little

2007-07-21T07:22:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

I have had a few factors that have hindered my writing and bringing you the news that you deserve and need to know. My apologies. I will be getting to it as quickly as I am able. Please stop back in a while if you wish. I am planning to have some links to some of Blackfive's videos and some Military news. Thanks. :)

This is a New Strategy, what more do they want?

2007-07-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

Opinion Journal has written a tremendous article about the new strategy that went into full effect on June 15, 2007. Today is July 11, 2007, and the Democrats have been decrying that this is a lost war. Have they spoken with the soldiers? No. Have they spoken with the generals who are on the ground? No. Have they read this article? I strongly doubt it. Why do I believe as I do? Because I have seen this movie before, as Sen. John McCain has put it.

This is the Baghdad Security Plan, and its mission is to secure the people of Baghdad. Even so, commanders are not ignoring the outlying areas of Iraq. U.S. forces have killed or captured many important al Qaeda leaders in Mosul recently, and destroyed safe havens throughout northern Iraq. Troops are conducting counterinsurgency operations in Bayji, north of Tikrit. And Iraqi forces have "stepped up" to secure some southern cities. The Eighth Iraqi Army Division has been fighting Shiite militias in Diwaniyah, an important city halfway between Basrah and Baghdad. As commanders stabilize central Iraq, they will undoubtedly conduct successive operations in outlying regions to follow up on their successes and make them lasting. [Read the whole article.]

I am so very proud of our brave men and women who are willing willing to wear the uniform of the USA and fight for our freedoms. They know what they are doing. They know the different between right and wrong, good and evil. Trust me, they have seen things no one should ever see. They know...and they continue to do the jobs that Americans won't do...oh, wait a minute...they ARE Americans! How about that, President Bush? Is this not the most honorable and toughest job? Hmm. Just as I thought, but getting beyond that...

Thank you, Military. All of you. You are in a class of your own, and you deserve to be there. That doesn't mean we will treat you differently, because we know that is not what you want. We just want you know how grateful we are to have men and women such as you. Thank God!

Airman gets shot by anti-war creep, no mention in news

2007-07-09T22:55:00.000-07:00

This is a heart-breaking and maddening story. It was sent to me by Sonnabend, and I believe it is originally from Michelle Malkin. Here are her words:

"My son's best friend, Jon, who's in the Air Force stationed in New Jersey at Fort Dix/McGuire Air Force Base was shot by a crazed anti-military white guy on Independence Day and he remains in critical condition. He had been on leave here in Ohio and got back to his home off base and was unpacking stuff from his car when this 22 year old guy walked up to him and asked him if he lived in the house. When Jon said yes, the guy said "not any more" and shot him point blank in the chest. He tried to shoot him again, but his gun jammed. Jonathan made it into the house. The guy then shot himself.

Turns out the guy left a couple of suicide notes stating how much he hated the military and he wanted to go out making a statement, so he chose to make his statement on Independence Day trying to kill a soldier. We are very worried about our Airman. He's the sweetest, nicest, do anything for ya kid and he's like a son to me. He's been to Iraq and Afghanistan on our behalf and then gets shot in his own driveway here in the U.S by an anti-war, anti-American lunatic. This is gut wrenching."

I am posting this tonight. Can we all (I know you decide for yourselves but if we all do this, I think it will matter) put a post on this?

The MSM is pretending it didnt happen,...this is hot on the heels of the man threatening to shoot Rush Limbaugh.

I know what you post is your business, but I think we all need to let this one be known.A US soldeer is in critical condition because some ant war loon shot him IN HIS OWN HOME.

The dinosaur media is anti-American, but do they have to be so flippant about it? I am glad this a**hole shot him. I wouldn't want him to be in a prison and breathe the same air I breathe. (Or that I would have to pay for.)

My request is for anyone and everyone who reads this to please pray for this young man who is the victim of this nut's rage. He can be healed through pray, but only if you so. Believe it. I've seen it happen. So pray, please.

Major Highways Project in Uganda!

2007-07-09T15:05:00.000-07:00

If you are not familiar with the area, then allow to fill you in a little. Do you remember all those floods we read about and saw on TV a few years back? Well, many of those people were trapped, because bridges that were built there did not take into consideration the levels of the flood waters. Even with the bridges, they could not pass to higher grounds.

Please remember, I am not sure if this is where the floods occurred. I am just using this as a frame of referrence and a theory. Why? I'm so glad you asked!

Currently, the surface of the road is two meters above the river bed, but during floods the water level rises to nearly four meters high. The new box culvert bridge will accommodate for the flood water levels.

To fix this issue, the Seabees of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 40 will construct a box culvert bridge approximately 20 meters long and five meters wide. The project will consist of backfilling, compacting, reinforcing and re-grading the portion of the road near the culvert that is damaged. On the entrance and exit sides to the new box culvert bridge, the road will be reinforced for approximately five meters to ensure stability of the entire structure. The Seabees will also re-build the Walela Bridge so local villagers have another avenue to travel as well. [Continue reading.]

The Civil Affairs (CA), which is an arm of the CJTF-HOA (Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa), has taken this under their wing. Please read this artice to find out how far they have come and how far they have yet to go. Thank you.

Father and Son meet in an unusual place

2007-07-07T21:18:00.000-07:00

This is such a touching article from CentCom. Why? One is in one place that is not near the other on a very important day.

Pfc. Jason Steffen, a mechanic with the 725th Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, stationed at Forward Operating Base Kalsu had a special guest at his re-enlistment ceremony June 27 – his father.

Mr. Robert Steffen, Jason’s father, is a mechanic working in the International Zone in Baghdad and was able to get a few days off work to attend his son’s ceremony. [Continue reading.]

I wish everyone could experience something so special. Congratulations Jason, and God bless the both of you so you may stop worrying.

Stop Ahmadinejad badges

2007-07-06T22:45:00.001-07:00

You HAVE to go to this site if you really want the Iranian mullocracy regime to fall: Stop Ahmadinejad. You will find a badge that suits your taste. There are many there. Then, don't forget to visit the site! It is StopAhmadinejad (without any further extentions). You can also leave comments. They could use some good, sound encouragement. Okay, get going!

Hat tip: Winston of The Spirit of Man.

Please check for viruses

2007-07-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts. (Today is Monday, and I want to keep this on top for a few days, because it is important. Thanks for understanding.)

I have spent most of yesterday and all night getting Spybot Search and Destroy (just hit next when the Wizard tells you to go back because something is not complete--for the free version) and Ad Aware (also free), because Norton did not catch the viruses that infected my computer. I am so sorry to put you through this, but it is better that I tell you now than to have you infecting others. That is, if you are infected.

I became suspicious when I went to sign in at one of the private sites where I write. I typed the first letter of my ID, and there was my whole address book! I got into a heated arguement with the administrator of that site for stealing my info, and he gently pointed me to the possibility that I may be infected. I was sure I was not, because I have Norton. YEAH, RIGHT.

It will take about an hour each for them to scan your computer (if this is your first time), but it is worth it. I do recommend that you read the tutorial for Spybot. Again, I am so very sorry. I hope you find it in your heart to forgive me. Have a day. (I know I left out the 'nice' this time. I do not think this is nice.)

Finally, 3 convicted of war crimes in Sierra Leone

2007-06-29T05:08:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

Source: CNN.

I have been for many years to hear this news, and they still have not convicted Charles Taylor. Does anyone remember how long it took for them convict Milosovic? (I know I spelled it wrong. Please don't write to tell me. lol) That's right. They never did. He died after 4 years-at least- of waiting.

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone (AP) -- A U.N.-backed court trying those accused of bearing greatest responsibility for the brutality of Sierra Leone's civil war issued its first verdicts Wednesday, convicting three former leaders of a junta that had terrorized the country during a brief reign.

The court found the three defendants guilty of 11 of 14 charges, including terrorism, using child soldiers, enslavement, rape and murder. [Continue reading.]

The crimes they did NOT convicted of were the crimes against the children. There were no sexually charged crimes that these scums were convicted for committed.

I have mixed feelings about this. I'm very glad these terrorists were convicted. This lets the other people know that when you enslave children and force them to take up arms, you will be found guilty of war crimes. This trial has set that precedent. On the other hand, if you only rape this child, then what? That doesn't matter? That is very disheartening.

Charles Taylor's trial began in the ICC a month ago. I guess we have at least 10 years before we get a verdict out of there. That is, if he lives that long...

Australia is transforming their naval forces to stay on top

2007-06-29T04:28:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

Source: CNN.

I love Australia, and the Aussies are some of the most wonderful people. One thing I can tell you, they are quite independent. Just like we are. Wouldn't it be great if, even though it's for their own interest, they became the super-power in the Asian hemisphere? Yeah, baby!

CANBERRA, Australia (Reuters) -- Australia will build an A$11 billion ($9 billion) fleet of advanced destroyers and amphibious warships, Prime Minister John Howard said, underscoring the country's plan to remain a key Asian military power.

The purchases would transform Australia's navy into one of the most powerful in the Asia region, with two amphibious carriers able to land more than 2,000 troops, 16 attack and transport helicopters and up to 23 Abrams tanks. [Continue reading.]

So, you see that the only country who has stood shoulder to shoulder with us throughout our country's history is finally taking steps to move forward. Welcome! My only question: What took ya'll so long? (lol)

Indo-Pak arms race

2007-06-29T04:06:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

This does not look good, and the place talking about it is CNN. They were talking of peace a while back, and they still may be. This is not going to help that. No, not at all. Especially since OBL may live in Pakistan!

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (AP) -- Satellite images show that Pakistan is building a nuclear reactor that can produce weapons-grade plutonium, an American watchdog group said Thursday, warning that it could contribute to an atomic arms race with archrival India.

A picture taken June 3 shows work progressing rapidly on the reactor at the Khushab nuclear site, 100 miles southwest of the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, the Institute of Science for International Security said. [Continue reading.]

Let us hope this does not heat up again...

HOA: Medics educate and Seabees complete project

2007-06-29T03:38:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

For some reason, the Horn of Africa has gotten my heart. I can see it has gotten the hearts of many of our military men and women as well. They are doing such a fantastic job over there.

In this first article, the medical personnel are taking classes so that they can help those people who live in isolated areas. They just don't want them to die if they could prevent it.

CAMP LEMONIER, DJIBOUTI - In deployed locations, corpsmen and medics can’t be everywhere. It’s important for all service members to become Combat Life Savers so they can be trained in how to save a life in a remote location. The first few minutes of a traumatic injury are crucial to the victim’s survival, which is why it’s important to know at least basic life saving skills.
[...]
“It is just no longer plausible for the medics and corpsmen to provide all the initial care in the modern battle field,” said Ingemunsun. “They are limited and can not help everyone at one time. The more service members that get the proper training, the more people that can be saved.” [Continue reading.]

These people are certainly impressive, if not to you, to me. The deserve our Honor. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen of the Armed Services.

This next article is a sweet one. When I think of Seabees, I do not think of them doing anything on land. I know. They are not fish, but I just don't. Wait until you read this!

DJIBOUTI CITY, Djibouti – Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 spent the better part of June 13 cutting down trees at the Djibouti Hospital to make room for a community relations project that will include gazeboes that will improve the quality of life of the community.

The Djiboutians originally started removing the trees, but were unable to complete the project because they didn’t have the right tools. The director of the Djibouti Hospital asked Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa’s Charlie Company, 486th Civil Affairs Battalion for assistance. They in turn coordinated with the Seabees to get manpower and tools. [Continue reading.]

These guys are outstanding in my book, and they should outstanding your book as well!

Afghan: One mission at a time and a new dam

2007-06-29T02:44:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

I know many people think the only thing Marines, Army persons, Navy personnel, the National Guard, the Air Force crew and the such are only capable of killing. Trash things and kill people. That's all there is to it, right? Hold on! Not so fast here. Here are two articles that could at least pierce your hearts, if only you would read them.

The first article is aboout changing the lives of these destitute people, one mission at a time.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - The C-130 is one of many different types of aircraft stationed here, but could easily be called one of the most versatile.

The members of the 774th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron put that versatility to the test every day. The three primary missions of the C-130s here are airdrop, air-land and aeromedical evacuation.

"Our airdrop missions can be anything from dropping pamphlets to the locals to humanitarian drops such as water, blankets, food and firewood in the winter, ammunition and troop re-supplies," said Senior Airman Patrick Keefe, 774th EAS loadmaster. "Air-land missions consist of troop movements or hauling cargo." [Continue reading.]

They are being modest. They also provide food to people who are so idolated that they cannot feed themselves. These people are just trying to stay alive after years and years of war.

The next article is about the necessity of water and the huge impact dams and irrigation will have not only on their crops but also on their economy. Just take one paragraph:

In a country held back by more than 30 years of war, ineffective water use has made life even more difficult in this already-barren country. Managing water is life or death for farmers like Haji Mazdigar Gul, 56, who explained that without a diversion dam, flooding often causes him to lose his fields, jeopardizing his family’s survival. His village of Koza Bokhana is one of 30 that will benefit from dams, which will redirect water from rivers to the fields of more than 80,000 farmers and families. [Continue reading.]

This is a very good thing they are doing, and they are not doing it alone. The Afghan people are actually working side-by-side with them. They are all great and while we empower them, we also are helping ourselves here at home. Read and find out why. I am very proud of you guys and gals! :)

Iraq: Arrowhead 'Ripper' and 2 Compassionate Soldiers

2007-06-28T23:03:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

These are two great articles. First, we have the ISF (Iraq Security Forces) working along side the Coalition Forces (CF) to put pressure on any al Qaida still left in the neighborhood.

BAQOUBA, Iraq - Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) teamed with Task Force Lightning units, Thursday, to clear Baqouba and surrounding areas as Operation Arrowhead Ripper continued.

“We are shoulder-to-shoulder with Iraqi Security Forces in this fight,” said Brig. Gen. Mick Bednarek, deputy commanding general, operations, and commander of Operation Arrowhead Ripper. “Specifically the 5th Iraqi Army Division led by Maj. Gen. Saleem Kariem Ali Alotbei, along with the provincial director of police, Maj. Gen. Ganim, have provided the Iraqi security forces to the fight.

The weeks ahead are absolutely key in not only holding and retaining the ground that is cleared in partnership with Coalition Forces (CF), but also in building trust and confidence with the citizens of Diyala.” [Continue reading.]

There is also a picture that comes with both of these articles. Well, all of them today, actually. Wait until you read how many AQ they killed! :)

This next article is very moving. Two soldiers who were only doing their job turned the mind of one man (who could in turn change the minds of others) when they took notice of the needs of his son.

KIRKUK, Iraq - The nine-year old boy would most certainly lose his leg. Given the prohibitive cost of medical care and his family’s lack of resources, amputation and a life of pain and dependence seemed inevitable. The Iraqi boy’s father was resigned to that conclusion.

Then two soldiers got involved and hope arrived along with them.

Sgt. Donald R. Campbell and Capt. Geoffrey Dutton, both Georgia natives, brought coalition and Iraqi resources together to give an Iraqi boy hope after a chance encounter during a routine patrol in Kirkuk, Iraq. [Continue reading.]

These guys are very special. It makes me so proud to be an American. Thank you for your service, stay safe, and God bless you.

'A Chance' says PM Olmert

2007-06-26T07:51:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

I just got through with a conference with Miri Eisin, Foreign Press Spokeswoman for Israeli PM Ehud Olmert' office, and I have more question than answers, I'm sorry to say. I could not hear the questions being asked of her after her initial press conference, so it may just be a misunderstanding.

There was a meeting yesterday with President Mubarak, PM Abbas, King (or President) Abdullah from Jordan and PM Olmert in the efforts of taking an opportunity out of this madness (the civil war in the Gaza Strip) and turning it into a chance to move forward with the 2 state solution. She kept repeating that PM Olmert, she and the others were not going to allow the terrorists to define them, but that the moderates were going to take control and define themselves and their destiny.

They were going to move forward-cautiously of course-with diplomacy. It is going to be a process with a vision of peace at the end of the rainbow. What happened in Gaza was horrific, but this opens the door to opportunity and they are going to walk through it.

There are three main articles that came up. They are:

1. Abbas fired Hamas' elected officials from the government, and now Abbas is working with an emergency government.

2. There will be 250 Arab prisoners, some will be Fatah, released from Israels prisons. The criteria for their release will be that they must not have blood on their hands and they must admit that Israel is NOT the cause of the suffering for the Arabs in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. They had brought it on by themselves by their own actions, their own choices, their own doing (or lack thereof).

3. Abbas has said to the Arabic world, in Arabic (very important because they sometimes say one thing in English and another in Arabic) that he renounced the violence of Hamas, he believed in a 2 state solution living side by side with Israel in peace, and he recognizes Israel. (I'm not sure of the last one. I can hardly read my notes!)

She also talked about the atmosphere produced so the talks could move forward. She stated that it would be a good idea to widen the scope of the dialogue. They are going to meet again next month, since the new emergency government is only around 10 days old.

Then the questions started. I could not hear the questions, but I could hear the answers. Maybe that is where the confusion comes. The first answer was indeed unique. For the first time, there were no, "Yes, BUT's" in their conversation.

Then she said they would give access to the West Bank! This way they could have freedom of movement. (Do you know who else could have freedom of movement, dear?) They also recognize the emergency government as the ruling government. (How long have we been called occupiers, although the government is in Iraq is elected?) However, access and free movement are very important to human beings. (I just pray it is not a mistake.)

There shall never be a compromise with terrorists such as Hamas and others. As to the money that has been held back due to the Hamas government, that shall be released just as soon as they can both agree on a way that is best for the people's humanitarian needs. There are dozens of truckloads per day being delivered everyday, but the Left press will not write about this. (It bothers me that facts are not disclosed, no matter what the situation.) Also, they both want to make sure the money goes to the moderates and not to the terrorists.

Later in the questioning period, they declared there would not be any benchmarks, ultimatums, or the such. This is what people looking in from the outside do not understand. You cannot do such a thing, especially with a government that is only 10 days old!

At the meeting yesterday, Mubarrak said that what Hamas did was create 'a coup'. Abbas agreed, basically, because he said the same thing at a later date. Abbas also declared it was totally unacceptable. However, it is too soon to expect any elections in the West Bank.

There were questions about trust (many questions). The answer was rather usual. Trust must be built, even if it is with your enemies of old. What alternative is there? (Fight back?)

Iran was mentioned, Syria was mentioned, Russia was mentioned, and I have no answers for you. My fault. I was writing as fast as I could! I did happen to catch one comment. Israel has an economy that surpasses that of the EU! I wish I knew those numbers. Now that's something new I could really sink my teeth into.

Let us pray for Israel and her neighbors countrymen and women. (Notice I did not say governments?) Pray for peace, understanding, forgiveness and readiness.Let us also pray that Israel realizes that the more the give, the more the Arabs will consider this weakness. I know most of the Israelis have hearts of peace, and they want the war to stop. Sometimes you have to have take other paths, sometimes you don't. Let us pray this is one of those times you don't, but if it is? Let us pray they have the chutzpah! (Yes, I am an Israel supporter. You can't even sue me! Hahaha.)

H/t: Israel Project.

Iraq: Railroad, Marine and Adm. Fallon

2007-06-26T04:58:00.000-07:00

This post is still available at Rosemary's Thoughts blog. Thank you for your patience.

U.S., Iraqi Troops Rescue Malnourished Boys From Baghdad Orphanage

2007-06-26T01:00:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

News from CentCom:

Jun 21, 2007
BY Multinational Corps Iraq Public Affairs.

BAGHDAD - U.S. and Iraqi army forces found an orphanage housing 24 severely malnourished and abused boys in Baghdad's Fajr neighborhood June 10, military officials reported yesterday.

The 24 boys, ranging in age from 3 to 15, were found naked in a darkened room without any windows. Many of the children were tied to their beds and were too weak to stand, officials said. [Continue reading]

This is a miracle and a travesty. When they found these 24 boys aged 3-15, some of them were chained to their beds, there appeared to be no food because they clearly looked malnourished, yet in the next room (which was locked), there was plenty of food.

They also found the administrator and others who were supposed to be in charge of this orphanage. Some of the Iraqi Army troops went to get the correct people from town to help these boys, since most of them come not even walk.

Allow me one question to the anti-Bush, pro-commie crowd: Would you have preferred we left the boys there to die? They are not the only children we have found. Do you remember the hundreds of children we released from Saddam's prisons? Civil rights my arse. You ought to be ashamed, but you would need an ounce of decency in you for that...

Aeromedical Teams Provide Care, Comfort

2007-06-26T00:41:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

News from CentCom:

21 Jun 07
By Staff Sgt. Cassandra Locke
379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs.

SOUTHWEST ASIA — The 379th Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron has not only made it possible for a speedier recovery by picking up injured and sick servicemembers, but is providing the care and comfort needed to put their patients at ease.

Each time a crew from the 379th flies on a mission to care for patients, they are humbled by those injured in theater. [Continue reading.]

This is a mixture of emotions article, from heart-wretching to proud to grateful. It is heart-wretching for me to hear about even one of our men in pain, let alone murdered. But this is war, and I have to deal with it.

It makes me so proud when I hear stories about our injured men who, to them, the only problem is when can they have their 'gear' back and join their team! Gratitude comes from the knowledge that they are doing this for you and me. Maybe not directly, maybe we'll never meet face to face, maybe...but wow. They know this as well. I am truly humbled.

Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave

2007-06-25T22:55:00.000-07:00

Cross-posted at Rosemary's Thoughts.

So, ya wanna burn the American flag and get rid of my God?

Next time, anger someone who won't fight back.

H/t: Wizbang.

Update: Blackfive has a great post explaining about the Vikings who were not afraid of the Muslims either. Go check it out.

Aviation Battalion Reaches 20,000 Flight Hours

2007-06-25T17:32:00.000-07:00

News from CentCom:

21 Jun 07
By Sgt. 1st Class Rick Emert
1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs.

CAMP TAJI, Iraq — Unmanned aerial vehicle teams from 1st Air Cavalry Brigade (ACB) have amassed 20,000 flight hours in the skies over Baghdad.

The crews, assigned or attached to the 615th Aviation Support Battalion (ASB) “Cold Steel,” 1st ACB, 1st Cavalry Division, surpassed the deployment total of the unit that previously had the mission in Multinational Division-Baghdad, according to Capt. Joshua Chase, executive officer for Company E, 615th ASB – the unit that conducts the UAV mission for MND-B. [Continue reading.]

Boy, I'll tell ya. If these guys ever stop being competitive, I think it shall be my duty to drop dead! lol. What is the competiton? You'll just have to read the article to find out! Needless to say, these guys are awesome.

Iraqi, Coalition forces move forward despite attacks

2007-06-25T17:26:00.000-07:00

News from CentCom:

21 Jun 07
by Spc. Carl N. Hudson
Combined Press Information Center.

BAGHDAD – The Fardh Al-Qanoon spokesman and a Multi-National Force-Iraq spokesman held a press conference at the Combined Press Information Center Wednesday.

Iraqi Army Brig. Gen. Qassim Atta Al-Moussawi, Fardh Al-Qanoon spokesman, and U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Mark Fox, a Multi-National Force-Iraq spokesman, discussed the progress of Fardh Al-Qanoon. [Continue reading.]

All 30,000 troops are finally in place, and the Iraqi Army (IA) is working well with them. Sometimes the IA would take the lead in the missions, while at other times the MNF-I would take the lead.

This was a conference to let the people know that no matter what they were hearing in the press, they were indeed working hand in hand. Literally! It's a good report. Thank you, and have a nice day.

Black Hawk Troops Use More Than Body Armor to Keep Each Other Safe

2007-06-24T09:12:00.000-07:00

An article from CentCom:

20 Jun 07
By Spc. Alexis Harrison
2nd BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs.

BAGHDAD – For many of the Soldiers in the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, the current 15-month tour in Iraq isn't their first. For the rest of the Soldiers in the “Black Jack” Brigade, having well-seasoned leaders can make all the difference.

While out on the streets every day, Soldiers from Troop B, 4th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, rely on much more than just the individual body armor systems they wear. They depend on each other to make it through daily situations and even the entire deployment. [Continue reading.]

This is a great article which tells of young man who learns about leadership by the example he sees all around him. This is one thing we could certainly use a lot more of!

Artillery battalion trades steel rain for hearts and minds

2007-06-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

Another article from CentCom:

20 June 2007
Story and photo by Cpl. Rick Nelson
2nd Marine Division.

HADITHAH — The counter-insurgency coalition forces are conducting in Iraq calls for numerous military units to give up their traditional roles and pick up a different weapon. This is nothing new for artillery units, who, since the Battle of Fallujah in November of 2004, have often been called upon to put away their howitzers for rifles, police batons, and claims cards. All around Iraq, artillery batteries and battalions are serving as provisional rifle, military police, and civil military units. In Hadithah, it’s no different.

At the Hadithah Civil Military Operation Center, Marines assigned to 5th Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, an artillery battalion based out of Camp Lejeune, N.C. assist the local populace with their civil matters. [Continue reading.]

This is a good article. We need to know more about the counter-terrorism that is taking place. One place to learn a lot is a site by the name of CounterTerrorismBlog. Visit it often. Have a blessed day.

1132nd Well Drillers increasing Camp Lemonier Water supply1132nd Well Drillers increasing Camp Lemonier Water supply

2007-06-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

This is an article from Centcom.

19-Jun-07
Story by U.S. Army Capt. Jerord E. Wilson
CJTF-HOA19-Jun-07.

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti – In preparation for the increase in personnel arriving to Camp Lemonier, the 1132nd Well Drillers of the North Carolina National Guard are hard at work improving the amount of water available for camp operations.

Within the last month, the 1132nd Well Drillers received a new well drilling rig capable of drilling through the toughest rock formations in Djibouti. The unit wasted no time in learning the intricate details of the new equipment and how to place it effectively into operation. Prior to this drilling event, they conducted a test to ensure the drilling equipment is fully operational before starting any job. [Continue reading.]

This one reminds me of humanitarian acts, but it is also a very important mission they are doing. Not only are they digging wells for water for the people there and themselves, but they are in the Horn of Africa (HOA). What is so important about the HOA?

I'm glad you asked. Do you remember the war between Ethiopia and Somalia? That is also located in the HOA. So is al Qaida. Connect the dots...

Battle Company Makes Presence Known

2007-06-24T09:06:00.000-07:00

An article from CentCom:

18-Jun-07
By Army Sgt. Brandon Aird
173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Public Affairs.

KORENGAL VALLEY, Afghanistan — The paratroopers were keen for the mission despite their rough conditions. The difference between a tan line and dirty skin has long since passed. Bites from sand fleas and mosquitoes just add to the problem. Electricity, toilets and running water (a 45 minute patrol away) are long forgotten conveniences.

The paratroopers are Sky soldiers from Battle Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team. [Continue reading.]

This is a pretty gruelling one, probably because it hits so close to home. That's all I will say at this moment. These guys are the best we have, so read about them. If you would like to adopt a Soldier, a Marine, a Platoon, whatever, you just go right here. I am telling you, you will not regret it. You want to know what you can do for the war effort? Try this!

Mission Success Relies on Maintenance Troops

2007-06-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

This is an article from CentCom:

18-Jun-07
Multi-National Division-Central Story.

FOB KALSU, Iraq — “In order to have combat power you need to shoot, move and communicate. “We are the move part,” said an auto mechanic with 2nd Brigade Combat Team out of Fort Stewart, Ga.

The mechanics of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 26th Brigade Support Battalion, Fort Stewart, Ga., help ensure vehicles and equipment are combat ready when soldiers go on missions. [Continue reading.]

I will have many more of these, because one of my sites is DoD Daily News. I shall bring everything over here, albeit teasers, so my readers can see what I do all day. Have a nice day.

Iraqi politicians agree deal on sharing oil, says Kurd Minister

2007-06-21T21:18:00.000-07:00

I came upon this fantastic article (if it is true) today over at Matt Drudge's site. Here is a portion:

Written by: Michael Howard in Sulaymaniya.
Thursday June 21, 2007
The Guardian.

I have also included many of the other stories links. If you are interested in some of the articles, you may find a link to that story that is no longer on the first page. lol. Have a great day.

Press Release: Group joins others for Military Families

2007-06-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

ROTARY JOINS FORCES TO FORM OPERATION ONE FAMILY
SUPPORTING THE FAMILIES OF THE FALLEN

Costa Mesa, CA., June 20, 2007 - Numerous Southern California Rotary Clubs within District 5320 are joining forces with MilitaryConnection.com, TAPS, Homefront America, Soldiers Angels and ThanksUSA in a joint effort to support the families of the fallen by forming Operation One Family. Details of the program and registration information for families in Southern California and Nevada can be found at www.operationonefamily.org. Operation One Family is a proud member organization of America Supports You.

Operation One Family endeavors to help families of the fallen cope with their loss, stabilize their present situation and secure their future. The mission is to help provide life skills, education and continuing support for the families of our fallen military heroes. The goal of Operation One Family is to create a national model that will be used by Rotary Clubs across America to provide ongoing support for these families in their own communities.

The efforts of Operation One Family will culminate in a regional convention-style weekend scheduled August 2 -5 for families in Southern California and Nevada. Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, California will host the families and provide meeting venues. The first day will feature “TAPS Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp” featuring Dr. Darcie Sims. Other events will include a Share Faire providing resources, information and workshops, a California beach party at the Dunes in Newport Beach, visits to Knotts Berry Farm, the Orange County Fair and a few surprises. Limited sponsorship opportunities are available for good corporate citizens.

Rotary International District 5320 has a qualified non-profit 501(c)(3) Charitable Foundation that supports the charitable activities of the clubs within the district including the collaborative effort of Operation One Family at www.operationonefamily.org. Rotary is an organization that exemplifies “Service Above Self”.

MilitaryConnection.com is a portal of all types of military resources and information connecting candidates from the military community with outstanding government and civilian employment opportunities, and assisting numerous military non-profits at www.militaryconnection.com.

TAPS (The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) is a national non-profit Veterans Service Organization providing peer based emotional support services to all those who have lost a loved one serving in the Armed Forces at www.taps.org.

Homefront America is a 100% volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
dedicated to supporting our troops and their families with meaningful assistance in times of need at www.homefrontamerica.org.

Soldiers Angels is a national network of hundreds of thousands of volunteers dedicated to providing hands-on comfort to the members of the military and their families at www.soldiersangels.org.

ThanksUSA is a non-partisan, charitable effort to mobilize Americans of all ages to “thank” the men and women of the United States Armed Forces by providing college, technical and vocational school scholarships for their children and spouses at www.thanksusa.org.

###

Source: Operation One Family e-mailed me.

Michael Yon: Death or Glory Part II of IV

2007-06-20T09:15:00.000-07:00

Michael Yon used to be in the service, now he is out reporting the facts about what is really happening in Iraq and Afghanistan. Right now he is in Iraq with the British Queen’s Royal Lancers. He has an amazing story to tell. Anyone who remembers the Brits who were kidnapped by Iran will not recognize these people. Nor will you recognize them by the stories the dinosaur media has giving us due to the fact that they have never actually gone to find the truth. They rely on terrorists or people who don't actually know the truth. Anyway, here is the link. Have a nice day.

The Iranian Tet Offensive

2007-06-16T01:12:00.000-07:00

It is 1968 all over again with a weakened presidency and growing public unrest with the direction of the World War III against Islam, so Iran opens the summer vacation season with its own version of the Tet Offensive.

Most commentators on the Hamas takeover of Gaza are missing the real story. They miss it for the same reason that they have missed the real story in Iraq. They miss it because they think they are looking at a civil war—Sunnis versus Shiites in Iraq, Hamas versus Fatah in Gaza—when the real story is a regional war, with Iran at its center.

The Islamist takeover of Gaza is really the first stage in Iran's new summer offensive against the West.

The Hamas takeover was not factional rivalry that spun out of control. It was clearly a deliberate, planned military campaign. In the Gaza town of Khan Yunis, for example, Hamas fighters destroyed the headquarters of the Fatah-controlled security forces by detonating a one-ton bomb buried in a tunnel under the building. This is more than a civil war: it is a carefully planned, well-executed revolutionary putsch against the Palestinian Authority.

What happened after the Hamas military victory is even more telling. Stories have been filtering out about Fatah supporters being rounded up into prison camps, of Fatah fighters being bound and thrown off of high-rise rooftops or subject to summary executions in the street. Having taken power by brute force, Hamas is making it clear that it intends to rule by fear. Summing up all of these events, a spokesman for Hamas declared, "The era of justice and Islamic rule have arrived."

This should all be familiar. The same kind of "justice" and Islamic rule arrived in Iran in 1979—and now Iran has finally managed to export its Islamic Revolution into the Sunni Arab world. Gaza is now an outpost of Iranian-inspired totalitarian Islamic rule.

And there is a good possibility that this won't stop in Gaza. Fatah is a leftover of the old era of the quasi-secular nationalist Arab "strongman." But Fatah's strongman Yasser Arafat is dead, both literally and metaphorically: his type is losing out, in the Muslim world, to the revived Islamist movement represented by Hamas. One side in this conflict is tired and dispirited—while the other is fanatically devoted and believes that it has the forces of history on its side.

While jubilant Hamas fighters stormed the last remaining Fatah redoubts in Gaza, Fatah leader Mahmoud Abbas responded by calling for new elections. The overall sense coming from Fatah spokesmen is not one of defiance or resolve, but a sense of resignation and despair. "There is no future for us," one Fatah supporter told the New York Times, while a Palestinian Authority official concluded, “We Palestinians are writing the final chapters of our national enterprise.” It should be no surprise to hear that hundreds of Fatah officials have already fled to Egypt. Fatah is a sinking ship, and the rats who make up its crew are deserting it. At this rate, Fatah will ultimately lose, not only Gaza, but the West Bank as well.

Seeing Fatah thugs dragged into the streets and shot by a rival gang of terrorists may not cause us to shed any tears—it couldn't happen to a more deserving group of people—but we shouldn't be deceived into thinking of this as a purely internal, factional struggle. During the first Palestinian intifada, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, most of the people killed by Palestinian terrorists were other Palestinians—those who were considered "collaborators" or advocates of peace with Israel. It was necessary for Arafat to eliminate all Palestinian opposition, so that he could take over the Palestinian territories (with our help, alas) and use them as a base from which to attack Israel.

This time, it is Iran—the main financial, military, and ideological sponsor of Hamas—that is seeking to take over. So, too, in Lebanon, where Iran's satellite, Syria, is also using factional fighting as an excuse to liquidate opposition—as in the latest assassination of an anti-Syrian politician. Syria seeks to break Lebanon between a new Sunni Islamist uprising in the north and the Shiite Islamist Hezbollah militia in the south—all with the goal of reasserting Syrian and Iranian control.

Add to this the continuing Iranian support for insurgents in Iraq and new evidence that Iran is providing weapons and training to the Taliban in Afghanistan—an act of war against the United States, not to mention the entire NATO alliance—and we can see the whole regional picture. In Lebanon, Iran has used Hezbollah to establish a base against Israel on the north, which is now matched by Gaza as a base against Israel on the South. Iraq is under siege from both sides, with Syrian and Iranian support pouring in to both Sunni and Shiite terrorist gangs—while Iran has now begun to strike out eastward against the US and NATO in Afghanistan.

In short, Iran is bent on regional domination, and it is advancing on all fronts.

This is exactly the picture that emerged during Iran's last summer offensive: Hezbollah's rocket war against Israel in July and August of last year. The only thing that has changed in our strategic position since then is that things have gotten worse: Iran has been emboldened to make further advances, while a Democratic victory in the US election has reassured Iran and Syria that America will eventually retreat and abandon the region to their control.

If we're not going to surrender to this Iranian onslaught—if we're not going to forget the lessons of September 11 and allow terrorist-sponsoring Islamist regimes to metastasize across the Middle East—we need to start fighting back immediately.

Tired, discredited, and possibly broken by his failures in Iraq, President Bush seems to have given up on providing any leadership against the Iranian threat. Fortunately, we still have Joe Lieberman, who has established himself as the only political figure willing to lead in this crisis by declaring that we should start an air war against Iran in retaliation for its acts of war against US troops in Iraq. What is really new in Lieberman's declaration is that he has proposed the use of military force against Iran, not as potential future measure to pre-empt Iran's nuclear weapons program, but as an immediate act of retaliation in response to the war Iran is already waging against us.

Our enemy in that war is already on the offensive in the farthest-flung corners of its would-be empire, from the Mediterranean to the Himalayas—but it is vulnerable at the center. There is still time for an air war against Iran itself, targeting terrorist training camps, nuclear facilities, assets of the Iranian Revolution Guard, and the gasoline supply lines that keep the Iranian economy moving, all with the aim of bringing down the regime.

It's that—or surrender the greater Middle East to a nuclear-armed Islamist empire headed by Iran.

ANA aviators partner with U.S. counterparts

2007-06-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

I received this news on Monday, June 11, 2007. I have been busy trying to set up a new site for someone, read my email that I haven't gotten around to, and so many other things to do. But enough about me. lol.

Our Army is doing fine job training the Afghanistan National Army (ANA) how to deliver supplies in such a way that they will be successful in their efforts. They are training together, and we are teaching them why (and how) it is important to prepare for the mission on the ground. This is very important, because it can save lives. It is very difficult to learn on the job when something goes wrong in the air.

The article was written by Sgt. 1st Class Krishna M. Gamble of the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs, and you can find it here. Have a great day.

President Bush receives heroes welcome in Albania

2007-06-11T06:16:00.000-07:00

Imagine that. I will straight with you. I am rather angry at President Bush right now, as I have been for a while. Here are some of the reasons:

1. Amnesty.
2. ROE.
3. What's up with these 'talks' with Iran as they steady murder our own?
4. Isn't that an act of war?
5. Letting General Pace go while fighting for a derelict AG.
6. Not pardoning Libby.
7. And many more...

However, when there is good news, it deserves to be reported. I found very article on this affair, and it is reprinted over at DoD Daily News-2. (I have also put up several really good articles today. Check out the heroes.) Have a great day.

This Week in Guard History: 10 June 2007

2007-06-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

June 7, 1968: Tuy Hoa Air Base, Vietnam - New Mexico's 188th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) arrives, becoming the third Air National Guard unit to serve in Vietnam.

Combined with New York's 136th TFS into the 31st Tactical Fighter Wing, both squadrons immediately begin flying close ground support missions for American troops.

The two units are the only Guard units assigned to the same operational headquarters while serving in Vietnam. During the course of its tour, the 188th flies 6,029 sorties and loses three pilots in combat, including two missing in action and later declared killed.

The 136th flies nearly as many sorties and fortunately loses no members to combat, although it did have three pilots killed in stateside training. One member of the 188th, Sgt. Melvyn S. Montano, becomes a commissioned officer after the unit returns home, and in December 1994 he is appointed the adjutant general of New Mexico.

NGAUS History: 10 June 2007

2007-06-10T21:36:00.000-07:00

Seven National Guard officers who had roles in the Normandy invasion represented NGAUS at a ceremony in France for the 10th anniversary of D-Day in 1954.

Maj. Gen. Ellard A. Walsh, NGAUS president, assembled the contingent after a resolution was adopted a year earlier at the 75th NGAUS General Conference in San Diego, Calif.

The delegation included Maj. Gen. Milton A. Reckord, Maj. Gen. William H. Harrison Jr., Maj. Gen. Karl F. Hausauer, Maj. Gen. William H. Sands, Maj. Gen. Jim Dan Hill, Maj. Gen. Donald W. McGowan and Brig. Gen. John M. Donalson.

Communication Department Seeks Staff Writer

2007-06-10T21:32:00.000-07:00

The National Guard Association has an immediate opening for an experienced staff writer. Selected candidate will contribute to National Guard, the association's monthly magazine, NGAUS Notes and the NGAUS Web site.

Duties include writing short news stories and covering a variety of hearings on Capitol Hill and elsewhere. For the magazine, the successful candidate will contribute at least one substantial feature story each month and assist in editing and producing the final product. Some travel is required.

Candidates must have five years of reporting experience. Familiarity with the military and the National Guard is preferred.

Interest in writing about military/legislative topics a must. Car required. Salary: low- to mid-40s. Excellent benefits include health and dental coverage and a 401K. plan. Convenient Capitol Hill location.

Send cover letter, resume and three writing samples to:

National Guard Association of the United States
Communications Department
One Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, D.C., 20001.

Fax: 202-682-9358
E-mail: Chris Prawdzik.

Pentagon Fitness Show Offers Intense 30-minute Workout

2007-06-10T21:30:00.000-07:00

Hosts of a new show coming to the Pentagon Channel want to make troops hurt, make them sweat and push them to their limits.

Fit for Duty takes viewers through a high-energy, 30-minute workout led by service members with fitness training expertise. A military sports medicine physician also offers tips for preventing injuries and avoiding career-ending accidents during each episode.

"Fitness is as much a part of the military as the uniform," said retired Master Sgt. Jim Langdon, Pentagon Channel director of operations and programming as well as executive producer of Fit for Duty.

Fitness instructors on the show represent each branch of the military and were selected after a nationwide call for auditions was launched through advertisement on the Pentagon Channel's Web site, e-mails to public affairs officers across the country and word of mouth.

"The most challenging part was trying to come up with routines that will keep someone motivated and are actually enjoyable to do, and are able to be watched and done in less than 30 minutes," said Sgt. Clint Reynolds, a Marine and martial arts expert. "I hope it will show that there are many different ways of working out and staying fit."

Fit for Duty is just one of many lifestyle shows the Pentagon Channel plans to present soon. An upcoming military cooking show, Combat Kitchen, will introduce viewers to the Grill Sergeant.

The show debuts June 18 on the Pentagon Channel, via podcast and video on demand.

More information, is available at Pentagon Channel.

Fallen Hero Exhibit Closes After Extended Run

2007-06-10T21:23:00.000-07:00

After an extended two-year run, the Faces of the Fallen exhibit, which features 1,139 portraits of fallen service members, will close Sunday.

The portraits, painted by 200 professional artists from across the country, adorned the walls of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial in Arlington, Va., and will be sent home to the families of the troops to serve as a lasting tribute to their service.

Family members, military leaders and visitors gathered yesterday to pay tribute to those whose memories are honored and to thank those who made the exhibit possible.

Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, called the day a chance to remember that "for some 232 years, incredible men and women have volunteered to serve our nation, all knowing the dangers involved, some giving their lives."

General Pace said the exhibit reminds him of a photo he keeps on his desk of Marine Lance Cpl. Guido Farinaro, the first Marine under his command to die in Vietnam.

"I know how much his picture means to me; I know how much these portraits mean to the families," he said.

Faces of the Fallen opened in March 2005, and the exhibit has welcomed more than 650,000 visitors since. The portraits, produced for free by the artists, honor the memories of the first 1,319 service members to die in Iraq and Afghanistan.

General Pace said he hopes the exhibit has demonstrated that the nation cares, and will always care, about the sacrifices they have made.

Army Contributes Equipment to 2007 Hurricane Season

2007-06-10T21:20:00.001-07:00

As a result of chronic equipment shortages in the Guard, the Army announced June 1 it would either issue or loan 2,600 pieces of equipment to some coastal states, Guam, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

The contribution is based on equipment shortages identified by Guard commanders in the given states and territories.

The equipment includes relief necessities, such as generators, trucks, Humvees and radios.

Some of the equipment will be permanently assigned to fill shortages at the states, according to Brig. Gen. David Halverson, an Army spokesman.

Equipment on loan is temporarily assigned and positioned within the state and will be returned at the end of hurricane season in November.

The Army started issuing the equipment in May and expects that all will be in place by mid-June, General Halverson said. Right now, a little more than half of the equipment is in place, he said. Some equipment is in transit to Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

General Halverson said that Army officials asked National Guard commanders in March for equipment assessments. With the supplemental equipping, General Halverson said, commanders reported to senior Army leaders that they can manage storms up to Category 3.

Announced on the opening day of hurricane season, officials hope the equipment support will head off potential problems in a season the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts "above normal," with up to five major hurricanes - Category 3 or above.

Hurricane Katrina, which devastated the Gulf Coast in 2005 was a Category 5 storm.

Operation Thanks for Freedom!

2007-06-09T16:01:00.000-07:00

Help collect cards, e-mails, etc, to send to the troops for the Fourth of July. Details at DoD Daily News-2. This will remain up until June 9, 2007. Have a blessed day.

House Armed Services Committee Holds Hearing on Body Armor

2007-06-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

House Armed Services Committee Holds Hearing on Body Armor

On Wednesday, the House Armed Services Committee held a hearing relating to Pinnacle Dragon Skin, a form of body armor that was the subject of a recent investigative report by NBC. Murray Neal, President of Pinnacle Armor, appeared with Phillip Coyle, a former Assistant Secretary of Defense, who observed the testing conducted by NBC, to discuss their claim that Dragon Skin is a superior product to the Interceptor body armor that is currently utilized by U.S. service members in combat.

In his opening statement, Mr. Neal made reference to a history of “anti-Dragon Skin misinformation” coming from the Department of Defense and members of the committee, in turn, accused Mr. Neal of impugning the integrity of the Army, badmouthing Armed Services committee staff, alarming service members and their families, and hyping his company’s product. “Everywhere you go,” said Representative Duncan Hunter, “you leave the implication that everybody is the devil.” While Mr. Neal said it was not his intention to do so, he could not provide an answer as to why the Department of Defense would intentionally seek to mislead the public and the Armed Forces on the issue of Dragon Skin body armor.

Members of the committee also heard testimony from Pentagon officials, who noted discrepancies in the tests performed by NBC. Lt. General Ross Thompson III, Deputy Director of the Army Acquisition Corps, noted that, “body armor that was provided for the NBC test was not from one of the six certified and tested producers of the body armor that is used by the military.” General Brown, commander of the Soldier Systems Center in Natick Massachusetts, stated that, “in Honorable Coyle's own testimony, he said they were using the 7.62-by-54 round, which is not the test round. The 7.62-by-63 APM two round is the test round which we specifically selected to put in a wider margin of safety into the plates.”

Mr. Douglas Thomas, executive director for the Air Force Office of Special Investigations also informed the committee that Pinnacle Armor is currently the subject of a criminal investigation. The Air Force is currently investigating Pinnacle’s claim that its Dragon Skin body armor had been certified by the National Institute of Justice in April 2006. According to a letter read by Chairman Skelton, this certification did not actually occur until December 2006. Pentagon officials noted the seriousness of such a fraudulent claim. “It is my hope,” said Lt. General Thompson, “that the investigation results in the appropriate consequences.''

Despite an admission by Mr. Coyle that the armor was “not ready for prime time”, Rep. Hunter said that the technology “may be of some value” and urged further comparison testing. He was ready, he said, to get “an M-14 and some 7.62 stuff to the Marine Corps lab and try to get some shots off in the next week or so.”

For additional information on military and Congress: NGAUS

British and American Troops help ANA in readiness

2007-06-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

The Aghanistan National Army (ANA) are busy training and working towards the day when they may be able to defend Afghanistan on their own. It seems to be going well. The 205th Regional Security Assistance Command are quite capable and are making sure of this. They are making sure that the ANA has the supplies they need and that the British are teaching them the American ways to run an Army. I like this. If you would like to read the whole story, you will find it here. Have a great day, and to those of you who are serving, "THANK YOU, and God bless you!"

Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran

2007-06-04T03:19:00.000-07:00

I say, "Everytime duschbag Ahmadinejad declares the elimination of Israel, we should bomb one of their official buildings. 'Parliamentary', preferably." I am very angry and sick of this bastard. How long are we going to sit back and do nothing?

BTW, isn't this the way WWII started? Anyone?

Another jihadist plot foiled

2007-06-03T04:13:00.000-07:00

I have news from Counter Terrorism Blog, Atlas Shrugs, The Drudge Report here and here, and AllahPundit at Hot Air. Everyone is all over this, but...but...but I thought we did not have have any terrorists here? I'm so confused! It must be because I'm a conservative. Yes, that must be it.

If I get blown up, it will only be my imagination. After all, how could I know anything? That is why I give you the links to the people are so much brighter than me. Please read them. They are too scary for me. After all, I'm just a girl.

Psssst: That there is what we here call, "Sarcasm" for those of you do not get it.

Update: Michelle Malkin has written a rather impressive article, as usual, about the capture of three of the four jihadis (or terrorists, whichever you prefer). The entire criminal complaint ("Courtesy of Robert Nardoza at the United States Attorney's Office in the Eastern District of New York) is posted over at Hot Air (same link as above. Just scroll down for the PDF link.) Criminal complaint? What in the world do you have to do be called a terrorist and go straight to Gitmo?

Here is the DOJ's press report (PDF). Ah, now let us see just how long it will take for the dinosaur media and the politicians to blame this Bush...and the timing. And on and on we go.

Will anyone ever realize we are at war not by choice but because they are trying to kill us?

Hajj Hameed, AQ-I's Chief Justice of Shari'ah, DEAD

2007-06-02T00:31:00.000-07:00

There has been heavy clashes between AQ-I (al Qaida in Iraq) and the Old Guard (Baathists and nationalists) for the past two day in the Amiriya district of Iraq. We have heard that there were some clashes by the AP, but we were told that the Iraqi people rose up against the terrorists. Unfortunately, this does not appear to be true.

Omar, from Iraq the Model, has the real news about what is happening in his country. I chose to grab a hold of this little (big) tidbit:

One correction to the AP story, Hajj Hameed was the chief of the Sharia courts of al-Qaeda in Amiriyah, not the leader of the network. Only god knows how many innocent people were executed by orders from this terrorist. Whether killed by Baathists, fellow terrorists, good Iraqis or American troops….Good riddance! [Continue reading.]

I could not agree more. Squirm in hell, you bastard.

Military News: 30 May 2007

2007-05-30T04:14:00.000-07:00

There are only two articles today. The first one is one that is close to my heart. For some reason, I really like to keep up with the Horn of Africa. This time, the article is about teaching and inspecting foods used in meals and medicines so that we may be able to reduce some of those horrific deaths from something so simple as washing our hands and other cleanliness details. Preventive Medicine Techs Keep Troops Mission-Ready.

This is an amazingly unheard article. Sometimes I get angry writing these, and that is why I mostly just give the first paragraph of an article. These people have done tremendous work, so much so that the terrorists don't even want to go there anymore! Yet, when do you hear about this? On the evening news? HA! Get your news here! :) Khowst PRT Winning the Fight in Afghanistan!

Prayers Requested for Wounded Soldiers

2007-05-29T03:29:00.000-07:00

Both picture were taken by Michael Yon and are his property.

These two amazing men were injured (shot) recently while in Iraq. There names are "The Q" aka Victor Quinonez and CSM James Pippin. Please pray for their speedy recovery and their families. Citizen Journalist Michael Yon has written a report on this and other news we do not receive here at home. I highly recommend you take some time his reporting.

Michael is not there by any organization. He has gone on his own dime, because he used to be one of them. He knows what it's like out there, and the e-mails he was receiving were not the same as the news he was seeing on the boob-tube. Therefore he decided to seek the truth for himself. If you like what you read, please feel free to donate whatever amount you can. All of it is appreciated, even the $5 donations. (Please donate more than that! lol)

Military News: 29 May 2007

2007-05-29T03:04:00.000-07:00

There are five articles of interest today. As we know, there was a Cedar Revolution after PM Hariri was assassinated. It was a peaceful, for the most part, revolution. The only problem being that once Syria was finally out of there, Hizbullah stepped in to take their place. Now al Qaida has joined in the vacuum. This article will address some things we are doing to help the government: Airmen deliver strategic aid to Lebanese military.

This next article involves two countries trying to become friends; USA and Qatar. The US Navy will visit Qatar for a two day 'friendship' visit: USS Underwood visits Doha, Qatar. This will do well in maritime relations.

This article is one we could have, if not should have, expected. Wherever the fighting is not, the economy is thriving. This attracts many businesses whom want to participate, if only for their own benefit. But isn't that what motivates most businesses? I know it would motivate me! lol. This particular area is northern Iraq: Security in northern Iraq aids economic opportunities.

Here we have another Army paratrooper sharing his thoughts about the surge and how it working or not: Army paratroopers share thoughts on surge.

I have no comment, because I am not sure of my facts. I will just introduce this: Pace Says Iraqis Must Step Up to Governance Challenge.

Everyone have a great day, and stay safe.

Let us remember and be grateful to all of you

2007-05-28T21:37:00.000-07:00

Interesting Times

2007-05-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, for the first time since February 1979, the USA will sit down with that rogue regime known as Iran. Why? Hell if I know. I am very upset about this, so I am going to lead you to someone who is in the area of the meeting place.

Omar, from Iraq the Model, has written this article to keep us up-to-date on what is going on over there. You we cannot count on our dinosaur media, but I'll leave that for another day.

I could go into the reasons why this is such a terrible idea, such as human right, nuclear weapons, murdering of our troops, etc, but this has already been said time and time again. Is their anything I could say to stop this from happening?

Why don't we stand them up? They felt all big and mighty when they pulled out of the last meet. Why don't we do it right back? Childish? Then you do not understand what carries weight over in the Middle East! There's always tomorrow.

First, they have to turn over Osama's son...

Two more great posts for Memorial Day

2007-05-27T20:13:00.000-07:00

My hat's off to Dagney on this Memorial Day.
I have just read Dagney's post for this Memorial Day, and it is very good. Thank you for all you do for our troops, Dagney. May the wind always be at your back, and may God's blessings be more than you've ever dreamed.

A wonderful Memorial Day post at Bereft's.
I read this yesterday, but I believe it is one that should be shared. Serendip is a very good writer and friend. She keeps the world aprised on what is happening in Iran, and she is a true-blue American. Thank you for the wonderful post, Serendip. Have a nice Memorial Day!

Memorial Day: 'A medal, a debt, both of honor'

2007-05-27T18:39:00.001-07:00

On April 25, 1945, U.S. Army Pfc. David M. Gonzales walked directly into heavy sniper fire in an attempt to save the lives of three men on the Villa Verde trail in the Philippines.

He dug out three soldiers, all buried by a massive bomb blast before a sniper finally got him.

Gonzales died and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

Read the story: 'A medal, a debt, both of honor' by John Faherty, The Arizona Republic

Medal of Honor

The Medal of Honor is the "highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States," according to the U.S. Army Center of Military History.

Here is the official citation for David M. Gonzales:

Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company A, 127th Infantry, 32nd Infantry Division.

Place and date: Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, 25 April 1945.

Citation: He was pinned down with his company. As enemy fire swept the area, making any movement extremely hazardous, a 500-pound bomb smashed into the company's perimeter, burying 5 men with its explosion.

Pfc. Gonzales, without hesitation, seized an entrenching tool and under a hail of fire crawled 15 yards to his entombed comrades, where his commanding officer, who had also rushed forward, was beginning to dig the men out.

Nearing his goal, he saw the officer struck and instantly killed by machine gun fire. Undismayed, he set to work swiftly and surely with his hands and the entrenching tool while enemy sniper and machine gun bullets struck all about him.

He succeeded in digging one of the men out of the pile of rock and sand. To dig faster he stood up regardless of the greater danger from so exposing himself. He extricated a second man, and then another. As he completed the liberation of the third, he was hit and mortally wounded, but the comrades for whom he so gallantly gave his life were safely evacuated.

Pfc. Gonzales' valiant and intrepid conduct exemplifies the highest tradition of the military service.

Technorati tags: US Military, Military Overseas, Armed Forces, Memorial Day, Soldier

Memorial Day 27 May 2007

2007-05-27T03:51:00.000-07:00

Today my heart is filled with sadness. I know it is not supposed to be, but I have never lied to you before. I am not about to start now. I have decided to share with you some prior Memorial Day posts. I hope you enjoy them.

Tomorrow is Memorial Day. At 3 pm, the nation will take one minute out of the year for a moment of silence to reflect on all the sacrifices made to preserve our freedoms. I think we should do this more often, but I hope you join me tomorrow at 3 pm, wherever you are.

Blackfive has a very moving and somber article about tomorrow. Please take the time to read it. They took the time for us.

To all the Viet Nam Vets: Welcome home.

La di da La di da La di da. La di da Da di da Da di da da. Da da di Da da di da. Da di di Da di da da di da da. Didada dadidada.

Well, you get the idea. (Sorry about that. I just looked at it, and it does NOT make sense. And I'm the one who wrote it! lol)

That is (was supposed to be) my parade for you. I know it is simple and probably off tune, but I wanted to at least do something.

Thank you to all of you who have risked it all to keep us free. I appreciate all your sacrifices. That includes you, too, family members and other loved ones. Thank you so very much.

Update: Greyhawk has a moving post today. You will surely be blessed by reading it. You may even find peace. After all, isn't that what we all want?

Update: Smash has a wonderful coverage of some heroes you would be proud to have met. If you want to know what is going on in the hearts of our vets this day, read this article. You will understand why they love each other so much.

Yes, they are proud to serve the greatest country in the world. Yes, they miss their families. Yes, they have their own points of view. Yet, they all come together when the time is necessary to protect you and me. These are remarkable men and women.

Be proud that they live amongst us, and be honored they chose to protect us. Be grateful they sacrificed for us, and do not forget their loved ones they have left behind.

This is a day of mixed emotions for them. They are grateful their loved one(s) is being remembered, while at the same time would much rather have them here to celebrate this day. This may be healing or too painful. Only God knows, and only time can help, if at all. Pay your respects. Please.

Update: You should see the pictures over at Willisms. He also has some precious words for this remarkable day. Sometimes the shorter the words, the more they say. Go over and check it out.

This one was written May 29, 2005. This next one was written the next day of the same year.

I pray your Memorial Day was a happy and healthy one. I also pray for our men and women who were unable to join us either because they are on duty risking their lives, shuffling paper (that is important, too), or they just happen to be with the Father. Whatever the case, I remember you.

I thank you for all you have risked for me. I understand the struggle of the ones you leave behind...well, not really. How could I? I pray for the Peace that the world does not understand be upon them. Thank you all.

I feel so honored and humbled to live in a country where people would do this for me. Who am I? I am no one. I am everyone. What a great society in which we live. Where an idea is worth more than gold, a friend is true to the end, and we are free to believe in whomever we choose and how.

I believe in Jesus Christ. He has never failed me, while I cannot say the same for myself. I thank You, Lord, for this day. Please keep the USA's Military, their family's and other loved ones, and our coalition partners protected from harm and evil. Grant them coolness in the heat, heat in the cold, food that doesn't taste awful, grace, mercy, understanding, knowledge, wisdom, guidence, strength, and complete and total Victory over the enemy. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

I would like to link some other posts that are very special about today:
Michelle Malkin.
Roger L. Simon.

There were actually more links, but they either are no longer accessible or they are included above.

It is my pray that our men and women in uniform are hidden underneath God's wings, that their families are provided for and well, and that each American remembers this day with the reverence it so richly deserves. Thank you for your service, God bless you, and welcome home.

Military News: 27 May 2007

2007-05-27T03:18:00.000-07:00

I have several article today, but the most bothersome is the one where I report that one of the three missing in action Soldiers has been found killed in action. I don't want to imagine how those animals murdered him. Can we take the gloves off NOW? I know. I doubt it, too. Then what are we doing? They aren't afraid of us, and we won't win like that. We need to make them afraid of their own shadow. May God put that fear in the hearts, even though our politicians won't.

Here are the titles of the articles:

Exposing the Enemy: 27 May 2007.
Iraqis taking the lead at Al Suleikh.
C-17 employs 'screamer' in combat airdrop.
Al Qaim detachment plays role in Iraq transition.
Soldiers help legitimize Iraq’s legal system.
German Navy Detachment Donates Vehicles.
School Receives Supplies, Toys and Medical Attention.
Paratroopers Take Stock of Success in Sha'ab.

They are all quite good. I'm just not up to writing right now. Please forgive me. Have a very nice Memorial Day. Remember them sometime during the day, today and everyday.

NGAUS Calendar

2007-05-25T11:11:00.000-07:00

May 28 - Memorial Day
June 14 - Flag Day
June 30 - NGAUS dues deadline for conference seating priority
July 20 to 22 - NGAUS Board Meeting @ The National Guard Memorial

This Week in Guard History

2007-05-25T11:06:00.000-07:00

May 22, 1944: Anzio, Italy - Allied forces, including elements of the National Guard's 34th, 36th and 45th divisions, begin their final push to break out after the Nazis h[e]ld them just south of Rome for four months.

The original intent was to land behind the German Gustav Line, which ran across Italy about 100 miles south of Rome, and capture Rome before the Nazis could react.

But poor leadership slowed the Allied advance allowing the enemy to seal them at the Anzio beachhead with constant shelling and aerial bombardment. After four months and thousands of casualties, the Allies made some headway by May 25, and they completed the breakout May 31. On June 5, the Allies enter a liberated Rome.

NGAUS History: 25 May 2007

2007-05-25T11:04:00.000-07:00

When President Franklin D. Roosevelt came to Washington in 1933, he brought a promise to sweep away the cobwebs of tradition and routine and do what was best for the country.

The Department of the Army, at the urging of NGAUS, quickly felt the bristles of the president's broom. NGAUS lobbied for legislation that would more clearly define the Guard's role in the nation's defense and eliminate the muddle caused whenever the Guard was required for federal service.

Because of NGAUS efforts, Congress passed legislation in 1933 that made the Guard a federally recognized reserve component of the U.S. Army.

60 MINUTES to Feature Iowa Army National Guard

2007-05-25T11:01:00.000-07:00

60 MINUTES will be devoting its entire Memorial Day weekend broadcast to the 1st Battalion of the 133rd Infantry of the Iowa National Guard serving in Iraq. Scott Pelley and 60 MINUTES cameras spent nearly two years following the unit’s members and their families for the story, a revealing and emotional chronicle of their lives that will be aired this Sunday, May 27 (7PM ET/PT on CBS).

There will be more information on their Web site, CBS.

Pat Boone to Honor Guardsmen on Memorial Day

2007-05-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

Entertainer Pat Boone will celebrate his 50th year in show business with a trip to Washington, D.C., for a series of Memorial Day festivities this weekend and to promote his National Guard documentary For My Country.

Mr. Boone debuted the song For My Country: The Ballad of the National Guard at the 128th NGAUS General Conference last year in Albuquerque, N.M.

On Saturday, he will attend, along with Gary Sinise and other stars, the debut of the G.I. Film Festival at the Ronald Reagan International Trade Center, and introduce the For My Country documentary.

For Sunday's 20th anniversary of Rolling Thunder, the massive bikers get together, Mr. Boone will perform as one of the event's headliners. The spiritual group, Valor, who are also featured on the For My Country track, will also appear with Mr. Boone.

On Monday, Mr. Boone will preside as honorary marshal for the paralyzed veterans in the Washington, D.C., Memorial Day parade, which attracts upwards of 150,000 spectators.

He will also perform at the parade pre-show event in front of the National Archives building.

For more information, please visit www.patsgold.com.

Air Force OKs Laser Surgery for Vision Correction

2007-05-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

Air Force officials have changed a policy to allow people applying for aviation and aviation-related jobs to have had LASIK surgery.

Effective May 21, the change also removes the altitude and high-performance aircraft restrictions for people who have had LASIK.

The decision is based on studies that showed LASIK-treated eyes experience little or no effect when subjected to the wind blast experienced during aircraft ejection or exposure to high altitude.

The recommended refractive surgeries are Wave Front Guided Photorefractive Keratectomy (WFG-PRK) and Wave Front Guided Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis (WFG-LASIK) using the femtosecond laser. The eyes are more trauma resistant after surgery using these methods compared to other forms of refractive surgeries.

An Air Force memo released this week, however, indicated that such surgeries are elective and are not covered by Tricare benefits. In addition, the memo stated that those "who undergo unauthorized [refractive surgery] treatment may be disqualified or restricted from certain duties."

Individuals still must meet the standards prescribed in AFI 48-123, Medical Examination and Standards, for entrance into the Air Force and aviation and special-duty positions.

Additional information can be found at Air Force Medicine. Air Force personnel are encouraged to follow specific application guidelines to en-sure any such procedures [to] meet force requirements.

Air Force officials also reiterated that there is no guarantee of perfect sight after such surgery.

Veterans to Wear Medals Memorial Day

2007-05-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) Jim Nicholson is urging veterans across the country to wear their military medals on Memorial Day.

"Wearing their medals demonstrates the deep pride our veterans have in their military service," Mr. Nicholson said. "It also reminds all American citizens - especially the young - about the sacrifices our veterans have made for their freedom."

He encouraged veterans to display their medals no matter what they are doing on Memorial Day, but especially when attending public events.

Originally called Decoration Day, the day began as recognition for those who have died serving in the United States armed forces.

Debate surrounds the first official Memorial Day, but it emerged just after the Civil War.

In addition to Memorial Day, Mr. Nicholson also said he believes the wearing of medals will become a tradition at other times. He first urged veterans to wear their military decorations last Veterans Day under a program called the Veterans Pride Initiative.

Mr. Nicholson said he hopes veterans also will wear their medals on Independence Day and when attending other patriotic events.

Major U.S. veterans organizations have endorsed the Veterans Pride Initiative.About 24 million living Americans have served in the armed forces, with nearly 18 million wearing the uniforms of the U.S. military during times of war and conflict.

The VA's Web site at www.va.gov/veteranspride provides additional information, including how to replace mislaid medals or confirm the decorations to which they are entitled.

Army Stands Behind Interceptor Body Armor

2007-05-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

After a May 17 NBC News report challenged the Army's use of Interceptor body armor instead of newer Dragon Skin armor developed by Pinnacle Armor Inc., an Army official said U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan still use the best available body armor.

At a May 21 Pentagon press conference, Brig. Gen. R. Mark Brown released test results that ruled out Dragon Skin a year ago.

The Army subjected Dragon Skin armor to the same endurance tests as Interceptor body armor at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., May 16 to 19, 2006.

Of eight Dragon Skin vests tested, four failed, with 13 rounds penetrating completely on the first or second shot, General Brown said. After the first complete penetration, the vests technically failed the test, but he said the Army continued the testing to ensure fairness.

Other tests included subjecting Dragon Skin vests to extreme temperature variations, from minus 25 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which would reflect the cold temperature experienced during airplane transport to the war zone and the hot Middle East climate.

Temperature tests caused the adhesive holding the Dragon Skin's protective discs together to fail, and the discs gathered at the bottom of the vest, leaving gaps in protection.

General Brown also noted that extra large Dragon Skin vests are 47.5 pounds and 1.7 to 1.9 inches thick; large size Interceptor vests, which offer equivalent coverage, weigh 28 pounds and are 1.3 inches thick.

Congress is requesting that the Government Accountability Office look into the matter further.

Homecoming Parade(s)

2007-05-24T21:31:00.000-07:00

I have just finished reading one of the most eloquent descriptions of a parade at the E-Ring. Blackfive was correct. This is absolutely a must read. The name of it is, "Cheers on Corridor Three. It makes one grateful. Have a great day.

With Honor

2007-05-23T15:57:00.000-07:00

This is an article written about four men who were awarded medals at different marks in time. They are truly remarkable and honorable. My brother emailed this to me because he knew that I would just grin from ear to ear. I love good news.

The only thing I do not like about this good news is the fact that sometimes they have to give their all. Thank you so very much for being who you are. Thank you also for what you have done. For those of you who made it back, welcome home and well done.

Darn. We need men like these! God, please protect them. Hide them underneath Your wing. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Watch this if you can; Glenn Beck and Zuhdi Jasser

2007-05-23T15:48:00.000-07:00

I just received this through email, and this is a good show. Mr. Jasser is founder of American Islamic Forum for Democracy. Jasser is trying to reach the moderate Muslims to let them know they are not alone. They can band together to fight back against the radicals. It is worth your time.

Glenn Beck will be interviewing M. Zuhdi Jasser, AIFD Chairman on "Glenn Beck" on the CNN Headline News Channel today, Wednesday, May 23, 2007.

The Glenn Beck Show airs from 7PM-8PM EST (4PM-5PM PST) and from 9PM-10PM EST (6PM-7PM PST) and from 12AM-1AM EST (9PM-10PM PST). The exact time of the segment with Dr. Jasser's interview is not known at this time.

The segment will build on yesterday's discussion on the program (Transcript is available here) on the recent Pew Research Center for the People & the Press out this week showing that "One in four younger U.S. Muslims support suicide bombings at least rarely." The study summary is linked here.

Mr. Jasser is also one of the Muslims who has been silenced by PBS. He participated in the film, "Islam vs. Islamists". You may join us in protesting this by joining the site, "Free the Film". They have taken too much advantage of us with our own money...

Military News: 22 May 2007

2007-05-22T22:28:00.000-07:00

I decided to post these four articles this way today, because blogger caught me for posting too many articles. Imagine that? lol.

Oil Initiatives, Funding Paying Off in Iraq.
The program’s goal, he said, is to repair and rebuild existing oil systems and components throughout the country and to restore oil production capacity to pre-war levels. ...

Bush, Scheffer Discuss NATO Issues in Texas Meeting.
NATO operations in Afghanistan, transformation of the alliance and missile defense in Europe topped the agenda as President Bush met with NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer in Crawford, Texas, today.

Bush called Scheffer a strong advocate for fighting terror, spreading freedom, helping the oppressed and modernizing NATO. The two men held a joint news conference at the Bush ranch.

Improving Fallujah’s Quality of Life.
Maj. Angel Ortiz says he and his staff have the job of rebuilding Fallujah, despite the ongoing threats. He’s working in one of the most challenging areas in Iraq. ...

“Our hope is to do some good so that residents there see things are getting better,” said Ortiz. Ortiz is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division Fallujah Resident Office officer in charge and supervises a staff of 22 people including eight Iraqis. “Those local nationals are risking their lives every day going out and visiting the projects to ensure our contractors are providing quality construction in a safe manner,” he explained. ...

Engineering Department Keeps Shreveport Running.
In the main machinery rooms of USS Shreveport (LPD 12), an Austin-class amphibious docking ship, earplugs are mandatory. The spaces are loud and hot, and without the continued attention of the crew, the ship simply would not go anywhere.

The Sailors on the bridge may run the ship, but they perform their jobs thanks to their shipmates several decks below—the Sailors that make the ship run. ...

Search for MIA's continues

2007-05-22T01:14:00.000-07:00

I have been hearing several things, as I'm sure you have also. I won't repeat them, because they are only rumors or assumptions. It won't be of any help. They are, however, quite sure that at least 2 of our men in Iraq are still alive.

Air, ground units continue search for missing Soldiers.

BAGHDAD - Soldiers continue 24 hour full spectrum air and ground operations dedicated to the search and rescue of three missing Soldiers, today.

Since May 12, pilots and Soldiers from 3rd “Spearhead” Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, – a UH-60 Black Hawk battalion – have been conducting air assaults and air movements of Soldiers and cargo around the clock supporting the search for the missing Soldiers, said Maj. Gail Atkins, operations officer for 3-227th. [Continue reading by clicking on the title.]

Please continue to send those prayers to God. He can and will hear you. We must use all weapons at our disposal, and prayer is a pretty powerful one! Thank you.

Basra may be ready to take over her province, maybe

2007-05-21T23:58:00.000-07:00

This is a press show. I don't know, but I get suspicious of these. Don't mind me. I'm just sitting here listening to the stupid illegal alien amnesty bill that will allow all terrorists free entry into this country. That's is why I am in a foul mood. Please don't let me take you away from what is actually good news.

Iraqis taking the lead in Basrah.

In an upbeat assessment General Ali Hamadi, Head of the Basrah Emergency Security Committee, has voiced his growing confidence in the Province's security situation and the capability of the Iraqi Security Forces as they assume greater security responsibility and moves towards Provincial Iraqi Control.
[...]
"I will not say to you there is no corruption in the police. This depends on every individual within the Iraqi Police Service deciding he wants to do good,” said General Hamadi. “It is our duty to ensure we fight all the bad elements in society. We will see this matter continue to improve." [Continue reading by clicking on the title.]

We were told it was going to be a long process, but people don't seem to have the patience. Shame on you! Do you really know how long it took for us to get our own constitution and end our own Revolutionary War? Let me give you a hint. We had two, count 'em, two, Continental Congress before we settled for the one we (somewhat) live by now! The war began in 1776 and we didn't have a running government until 1789.

BTW, we never had welfare nor a standing army at that time. Either you carried your share or you died. Think about THAT the next time you want to bad mouth any of these brave young men and women who are defending us...

Introducing the Lionesses

2007-05-21T23:44:00.000-07:00

The Navy has braved a new frontier (GO NAVY!) when they became the first branch of the Armed Forces (Happy Birthday!) to include women in their Seabees.

Band of sisters plays key role in security.

The Lioness program was born when Marine commanders needed a culturally acceptable way to conduct effective searches of Iraqi women at control points along the Iraqi border and other locations. Because men in Muslim countries are not allowed to touch women they are not related to, it was difficult to stop insurgents from using women to smuggle in arms or money. Lioness trains U.S. servicewomen to conduct searches of females, accomplishing the mission while being sensitive to Muslim women. [Continue reading by clicking on the title.]

I know I'm biased, being a woman and all, but I don't women in combat. If you are going to put us in combat, then by God, do it right! LOL.

Healing an Afghanistan Province while gaining ground

2007-05-21T23:24:00.000-07:00

The servicemembers of Operation Ice Axe is conducting a rather different offense in the province of Paruns. The objective is to gain the friendship and confidence of this province so we can gain territory as 'safe' so that the Afghanis may govern.

Teamwork brings humanitarian aid to Paruns.

“We’re establishing a provincial development council for the first time in Nuristan with assistance from the Nuristan PRT,” Gukeisen said.

The medical engagement is seen as part of a larger effort to gain popular support and to assist Tamim Nouristani, governor of Nuristan province. [Continue reading by clicking the title.]

The best way to gain a woman's heart is to care for her children. At least that's the way I see it. :)

Spirit of America assists our troops in the HOA

2007-05-21T23:11:00.000-07:00

The Spirit of America had recently dropped off 50 cases of schools supplies and the such to the 489th Civil Affairs Team. These are items that have been donated from all over the USA and beyond.

Service Organization Offers support.

The CA team recently conducted a village assessment and met with the local leaders in Mpeketoni. During their assessment, the CA team found the Lake Kenyatta Primary School building well taken care of and in good condition. However, the head teacher of the school said his students were in need of supplies.

Spirit of America donated items such as school supplies, soccer balls, toothbrushes and toothpaste, backpacks, and soccer ball pumps to the 489th CA team, which is assigned to the Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa, Camp Lemonier, Djibouti. [Continue reading by clicking the title.]

This is just some of the good works they do.

Visiting the Smiles of Orphans in the Horn of Africa

2007-05-19T20:35:00.000-07:00

Here is another article about an orphanage in the Horn of Africa. I just love these, because it touches my heart to read about the love from American Soldiers for the littlest of His. The title of this article is, "Joint Task Force Showers Orphans With Supplies and Smiles." Our troops certainly do love those smiles. Have a nice day.

Iraq Assistance Group Supports the Feature Performance

2007-05-18T21:51:00.000-07:00

This article is similiar to the one below it, only this one goes into better theatrics. (It is very well written.) It is about the Iraq Assistence Group and the Personal Security Platoon. The hair on my...?...the skin on my...?...I get the chills thinking about these guys. It is a great read. Have a great weekend, and stay safe!

'You Call…We Haul'

2007-05-18T21:46:00.000-07:00

This article will introduce those of you who do not know what the Iraq Assistance Group (IAG) does, and it is a good read for those of you who are aware already. They understand the Personal Security Platoon (PSP), and these guys are the bomb (if you'll pardon the pun). These are the guys that get you from point A to point B alive. Read about these guys. They truly are the people behind the scenes we never hear about, but we couldn't get our jobs done without them. Kudos to you guys! :)

Baghdad ‘Surge’ Moves Forward; Search for Missing Troops Continues

2007-05-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

This article covers both the 'surge' and the ongoing search for the three missing men. We have news tonight that the three men are alive, but I do not know how we know this. I can guess, but I will not be doing so on here! lol. Have a good read and a good weekend.

NGAUS Legislative, JCA and Notes: 5/18/2007

2007-05-18T18:41:00.000-07:00

Follow the click to find the NGAUS Notes, NGAUS Legislative Updates, and Joint Cargo Aircraft (JCA) latest news. Have a nice day. :)

Military News: 17 May 2007

2007-05-17T22:07:00.000-07:00

There is no military news for 16, because I presented those seperately. Today I only have two, so this should be okay.

The first one is Admiral Fallon Tours U.S. Army Central Facilities in Kuwait. It isn't very long. It covers his first visit to the US Central Command. He started with Camp Buehring Training Village this past Sunday. When he spoke to his Soldiers, he let them know that he was depending on them to stablize the region. They are the last best hope. [Continue reading.]

The next article is a nice one. The title is, "Qatari finds talent as translator during MNF military exercises." It is about a Qatari man who finds his talents in a place where he was not looking, but he is enjoying his find. He has been chosen as an interpreter. It is a remarkable story, should you choose to read it. lol.

Have a really great day and weekend. Be careful, and keep your heads down. Godspeed.

Training, Restoring and Maintaining ANA

2007-05-16T23:41:00.000-07:00

Afghanistan is still a very dangerous place, but our guys are doing a remarkable job. So is the Afghan National Army (ANA). Our Airmen are deployed for one year, and they are very proud of the job they are doing training these folks in areas of cleanliness, safety, repairs of machinery, etc. They are also achieving a great rapport with their counterparts.

"This place was in dire need of basic, essential supplies," said Staff Sgt. Falsen Cambre, a weapons embedded training team mentor. "The buildings had no plumbing, electricity or windows. We began supplying them with the basics needed to accomplish the mission."

Some of the depot's 140-year-old buildings house large machines that manufacture vehicle and weapon parts.

"We've given the buildings a 100-year upgrade," said Maj. Jim Wood, a facilities mentor. "We've repaired walls, both structurally and cosmetically, added windows, doors, roofing and electrical capabilities." [Continue reading.]

Many of the Afghanis have commented on how much they like us being there, but I guess you won't read about that too often. Keep stopping by here, and I will try to provide you with ALL the news. Not just the bad. Have a great day!

Army Reserve Maj. Derek P. Bonaldo

2007-05-16T20:02:00.000-07:00

Many people who are not in the Armed Forces find it difficult to understand why anyone in their right mind would choose to sign up for Iraq in the middle of a war, but Maj. Bonaldo will shed a little light on it for them.

...For Maj. Bonaldo, it was a question of duty and service: “I volunteered to go in part because I had never deployed before . . . I felt that I needed to step up . . . [and] I felt I could make a difference.” For the fledgling Iraqi police force he helped, his contributions were invaluable. [Continue reading.]

It was on May 1, 2006, that Maj. Bonaldo found himself in first fire fight. He had been training Iraqi Police officers when the fit hit the shan. (He's fine.)

He is a 14 year veteran. He did not have to go to Iraq. It was not required of him, but he has a sense of duty that is admirable. He went to train the Iraqi Police to stand on their own so our men may come home.

[...]In the U.S., even before a soldier gets to his first unit, they still have much more experience, he said. Our boot camps are much more strenuous and they get a lot more done than in the Iraqi boot camps. A lot of times, (national police recruits) are not moving at the pace that a U.S. commander is used to.

But American troops efforts are slowly paying off, Bonaldo said.

Were they making progress? Yeah, he said. But you know how the American people are. They want results quickly. Its a slow process ... too slow for most people. The guys I was working with need at least one year. [Continue reading.]

Once home, Maj. Bonaldo took off some time to be with his wife and children. Bonaldo and his unit returned to the U.S. last month as decorated veterans. God was watching over them, because all of the people with him and under him came home alive.

At least 11 were awarded Bronze Stars for acts of merit or bravery, while six of them received Army Commendation Medals with the Valor attachment. There was one hero who received a Purple Heart. "Nobody died and we did what we were supposed to do, he said."

Yes, you did, and I personally thank you. Welcome home, and congratulations!

Marine Corps Res Cpl. Mark A. Camp: Someone You Should Know

2007-05-16T17:21:00.000-07:00

This article brings pride and tears to all patriots. You have heard of many people in battle and many of them dieing. Captain Camp made it home alive, but not all of them.

In May of 2005, Marines stationed in Anbar province began a week-long hunt to root out insurgents and foreign fighters in the volatile areas around the Syrian border. Dubbed Operation Matador, those tasked with carrying out the mission encountered enemies who had dug in and were ready to fight: deadly roadside bombs, sniper attacks, and several well-planned ambushes.

One day after the operation began, then-Lance Cpl. Camp and his company were sent to New Ubaydi on a house-clearing mission. As Camp’s squad entered one of the houses, insurgents hiding in a closet and in an underground crawlspace opened fire, shooting four Marines. Camp, outside, heard the gunfight and immediately ran inside to help. Three separate times he entered and exited the building to recover his squad members and clear the house of insurgents. [Here is an article written about the ambush, and here is an article written about their Silver Stars.]

It is good to be surrounded with heroes. Lord, please watch over the ones who are still living, comfort the loved ones of the ones whom have gone home, and protect the ones that are still out in the field. Thank you.

Search for missing Soldiers continues

2007-05-16T17:02:00.001-07:00

I am praying for their recovery as I hope you are also. Here is what we have so far.

“Right now our focus is on searching for the missing Soldiers, and we’re trying to isolate the areas where we think they could be,” Mintz said. “The (captors) don’t have freedom of movement; if they have the Soldiers, they can’t move them from where they are. We’re doing a deliberate search of the areas for the people responsible for the Soldiers we’re looking for.” [Continue reading.]

May God be with them. Keep those prayers coming.

Hard work creates progress in border provinces

2007-05-16T17:02:00.000-07:00

It has been quite some time that we've been in Afghanistan, but anything worth having is worth waiting the time. We are spreading our wings, and we are helping this poorest country in the world slowly turn the dial on the clock of despair. Little by little, we are branching out into places no one has tred on before, and it is working to make a difference. Hope is beginning to peak its head.

The elder tribesmen from the Korengal Valley met for peace talks with Coalition leaders and Nuristan Gov. Tamim Nouristani at his compound in the Paruns Valley May 3.

“The Korengal Valley [elders, whose home] is enemy central for Kunar Province, where we’ve been doing most our fighting for the last 14 months now, have decided they want a third party outside of Kunar Province to talk their problems down,” said Army Capt. David W. Mayfield, Headquarters and Headquarters Company commander of 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment. “They trust Governor Nouristani to be that third-party element to help them solve that problem.” [Continue reading.]

May their hopes be fulfilled, just as long as it does not include our elimination! lol.

Romanian Soldiers Stand United with Americans in Iraq

2007-05-16T17:00:00.000-07:00

There are many cultural differences, but the similarities are what's more important to these men.

“I don’t see boundaries between Americans and Romanians,” Constantin said. Their efforts have gained the respect of many U.S. soldiers, who provide additional equipment and training to the unit stationed at Logistical Support Area Adder.

Sgt. 1st Class Michael E. Proctor of Jacksonville, Fla., a senior maintenance adviser with the 546th Maintenance Company, said he enjoyed working with the Romanians when he recently taught Humvee maintenance to more than 50 of them.

“I’m pretty impressed with them,” Proctor said, noting the Romanians were eager students who constantly asked questions about the unfamiliar vehicle. The southeastern European country has participated in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom since their beginnings. Currently, there are nearly 600 Romanian soldiers serving throughout Iraq, with a majority of those at the Tallil base, according to their spokesman, Lt. Dorian Constantin Balan. [Continue reading.]

There are many more similarities and friendships. I have heard the same things being said of the Romanians over yonder in Afghanistan. They sound like a great ally. Godspeed to us all.

Sustained U.S. Presence Critical to Security, Iraqi Spokesman Says

2007-05-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

While this looks good on the surface, all you have to do is peel the onion to get your eyes to burn. There may be some good news here on the slide.

Despite a desire for U.S. forces to ultimately leave Iraq, Iraqi leaders recognize the need for international support until their military is capable of operating independently, the Iraqi government’s official spokesman said today.

“The fight is beyond the capacity of the Iraqi troops,” Ali Aldabbagh told “bloggers” and online journalists during a conference call today.
[...]
“We do need a regional effort,” he added, but until that coalesces, he said, the presence of the U.S. military is crucial.

On the subject of regional cooperation, Aldabbagh said current efforts by the United States to engage Iran in talks on Iraq are a step in the right direction. Dialogue with Iran will benefit the United States, Iran, Iraq and the entire region, he said.

The history of conflict between the U.S. and Iran “makes Iran more powerful,” he noted. “(The) conflict policy with Iran, it didn’t get us any positive things. We have to try another way of dealing with Iran.”

Iraq must develop ties to a country with which it shares a border over 900 miles long, Aldabbagh said. “Do we need to have a good relation(ship) with Iran? Definitely, they are our neighbors.”

By the same token, he said, the government of Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki must engage all of the country’s political factions, including that of Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. [Continue reading.]

I just pray we're not building them up to take us down...

Evidence Links ‘High-Value’ Detainee to Al Qaeda

2007-05-16T16:06:00.000-07:00

This one must have slipped by me, but I have a hold of it now. This article is about a Pakistani man by the name of Majid Khan. He has been in Guitmo since 2003, and he is one of sixteen people that have been sentenced since September 11, 2001.

Evidence presented during the tribunal revealed that in early 2003, Khan tapped Uzair Paracha, a U.S. permanent resident alien he met in Pakistan, to impersonate him in the United States. Khan wanted to make it appear that he had never left the United States and planned to use Paracha to obtain immigration documents that would enable him to reenter illegally. Paracha recently was found guilty of material support to terrorism and sentenced to 30 years in prison. [Continue reading.]

This is a remarkable article. I have been writing (copying and reading) so many of these wartime stories that sometimes they get by me. Please don't let that happen to you. Have a great day.

An article you may even like about al Anbar!

2007-05-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed we haven't been hearing several stories per day about al Anbar? You and I know why that is, but it is sad that they couldn't even take the time to write a good article for a change. Oh, that's right. I forgot we're losing. BS.

Anbar Province Still Dangerous; Getting Better.

For example, 22 joint security stations in the town of Ramadi now are helping to tamp down violence, Marine Brig. Gen. Charles M. Gurganus, ground forces commander for Multinational Force West, said during a news conference.

Continue reading.

Click on the title to read the article. I sure will be glad when all the naysayers have to eat their words!

Military News: 15 May 2007

2007-05-15T13:23:00.000-07:00

There are some difficult articles and some really good articles in today's report. Let's start with a reconstruction in Basra article.

Basrah Public Works Initiative Complements Provincial Reconstruction Teams.

BASRAH, Iraq – Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs) began as a concept in Afghanistan, developed by then U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad. They proved to be so successful that when Khalilzad was named Ambassador to Iraq in June 2005, he decided PRTs would be a good way to develop capacity in that country as well. PRTs are now being established in each Iraqi province. [Continue reading.]

This is the story I want everyone to put their hearts and prayers into. This is about the three men missing in action in Iraq.

General Cites ‘Massive Effort’ Under Way to Find Missing Soldiers

WASHINGTON, May 14, 2007 – The U.S. military, coalition partners and Iraqi security forces are making a “massive effort” to find three American soldiers missing in Iraq since May 12, a senior U.S. military officer said today.

“We are using every asset and resource available to the United States and our Iraqi allies in these efforts,” Army Maj. Gen. William B. Caldwell IV, spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq, said during a videotaped release broadcast on the Pentagon Channel today. [Continue reading.]

Here is a story of a man who found himself in a different kind of war and himself.

Former Infantryman Finds Calling in Civil Affairs.

FORWARD OPERATING BASE GHAZNI, Afghanistan — It was clear to Army Sgt. Drew Pylant as his convoy pulled up to the district center, framed against the snow-capped mountains of eastern Afghanistan, that he wasn’t fighting in the same kind of war that his father and grandfather fought in.

On an icy February morning in Ghazni Province, many years ago, he pulled up his neck gaiter to try and fight off the penetrating cold as he sat behind his M-249 squad automatic weapon. Even though he spent years running and training with this same weapon, he doubted his skills with it would come in use that day, or ever, because his mission had changed. [Continue reading.]

This is a wonderful article about the first Muslim to be in command of an Aviation Squadron!

First Muslim to Take Command of Aviation Squadron.

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea – Cmdr. Muhammad Muzzafar F. Khan relieved Cmdr. Timothy Langdon as commanding officer of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 31 during a ceremony held at sea aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) May 13.

Khan is the first Muslim to take command of an operational aviation squadron in the U.S. Navy.

The “Topcats” of VS 31 are assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, embarked aboard Stennis, and currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO). [Continue reading.]

That is quite a mixture of stories. I just wish our media was willing to supply us with such diversity...

Master Sgt. Brinda Kupiec, Someone You Should Know

2007-05-14T23:45:00.000-07:00

This is a remarkable woman. She had quit her job to be with her husband for his last few years on earth, and now she is at a crossroads. Without him around anymore, the home feels rather empty and lonely. Being in Iraq has given focus and meaning to her life.

Deployment Provides Direction, Focus
By Sgt. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown
13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary).

LOGISTICS SUPPORT AREA ANACONDA, Iraq, May 14, 2007 — Two years ago, a wife sat by her husband’s side, comforting him. The woman had quit her job as a school teacher several years earlier to help her ailing spouse through two bouts of cancer. And then the woman, an Army Reserve soldier lost her spouse of 35 years. [Continue reading.]

I pray she finds the comfort that only God can give, and I know she is giving much comfort to others. If only we could all be like that...

Some Good Works Happening in Iraq

2007-05-14T22:35:00.000-07:00

It may seem as though it is trivial to us, but I have lived in the campgrounds as child without running water. Where is this leading? Right here:

Anbar Villages Appreciate Water Treatment Investment

RAMADI, Iraq – Residents north of Ramadi, Iraq will soon have fresh, potable water pumped into their homes.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Gulf Region Central district is overseeing the construction of two small water treatment plants as well as the installation of 24,000 meters of water main for Zangora, a community of 48,000 people, in central Iraq. [Continue reading.]

I remember when we moved into the city, the shower and the fresh water were very much appreciated. I was 15 years old. I can only imagine how happy it will make these people. God bless us all.

Military News: 14 May 2007

2007-05-14T20:52:00.000-07:00

Here are four articles which I find rather inspiring. I hope you do, too.

This first story is one that really touched my heart. You guys rock!

CJTF-HOA members donate time, supplies and compassion to orphanage.

DJIBOUTI CITY, Djibouti – Nestled in a remote and unassuming part of the city, a local Djibouti City orphanage awaits the arrival of members from Camp Lemonier. The children who live at the orphanage are in need of supplies, donations, and most important of all…love and affection.

Prior to the group’s departure from the base chapel, the seven volunteers made up of U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Marines, made last-minute preparations for their trip to the orphanage by loading up supplies. The supplies were donated by both camp members and from a Marine master sergeant’s hometown friends who organized a donation drive to provide the children with gifts of goodwill and compassion. [Continue reading.]

Next we have a successful story of a province by the name of Maysan, albeit it does not come without setbacks and hardships.

U.S. Central Command Public Affairs.

Security authority for Maysan province was recently transferred to provincial Iraqi government. The province was the fourth to do this, and marks a milestone of 75 percent of Southeast Iraq as being transferred to provincial Iraqi control. The province had previously been under the authority of the U.K. military.

The Maysan Provincial Reconstruction Team has worked behind the scenes in all this. Not only do they work closely with Maysan officials to create and strengthen transparent and accountable government institutions, but they also advise Iraqis on promoting development in the political and economic areas, and work to help improve essential services. [Continue reading.

If this doesn't show success, I don't know what will.

Dhi Qar PRT successes showing through.

Security authority for Dhi Qar has been under Provincial Iraqi Control for almost six months now, and many successes in the province are starting to show through.

The Iraqis who live in Dhi Qar province are now finding opportunities they never had under Saddam. The Provincial Reconstruction Team, which was set up last year, has been acting as advisers to the Iraqis, helping them determine which steps will best suit them to get Iraq to stand up on its own. To accomplish that goal, the PRT has been working with many different groups in the area, from U.S. and Coalition military to foreign civilian and Iraqi nationals. [Continue reading.]

This province has been in control of themselves ever since July 2006! Wait a minute. I thought they were not standing up? Yeah, maybe those 'reporters' ought to go out there and REPORT!

Muthanna PRT under Iraqi control.

...Muthanna became the first Iraqi province to take the lead on governing its own province. This step allowed the provincial police and Iraqi Army to be the first responders’ to any crisis in the province. However, the PRT still helps the government in taking further steps to helping its people. [Continue reading.]

Please keep your prayers and hopes coming for our three missing men in Iraq. They are still alive, and we must find them. Thank you.