Volume Four, Number 11 - 7-2-09
Mission - Soldier - Family - Team
For the latest news, pictures, and information from 4ID, regularly check:
http://www.hood.army.mil/4ID
Seven day weather forecast:
Baghdad, Iraq: Fri, Hi - 112, Lo - 89, sunny; Sat, Hi - 110, Lo - 84, sunny; Sun, Hi - 108, Lo - 83, sunny; Mon, Hi - 108, Lo - 82, sunny; Tues, Hi - 109, Lo - 82, sunny; Wed, Hi - 113, Lo - 85, sunny; Thur, Hi - 113, Lo - 85, sunny.
Kabul, Afghanistan: Fri, Hi - 87, Lo - 63, sunny; Sat, Hi - 84, Lo - 61, mostly sunny; Sun, Hi - 83, Lo - 61, PM thunderstorms; Mon, Hi - 88, Lo - 64, sunny; Tues, Hi - 91, Lo - 62, sunny; Wed, Hi - 90, Lo - 62, sunny; Thur, Hi - 89, Lo - 63, mostly sunny.
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Sadly, we have our first 4ID casualty in Afghanistan.
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Pvt. Steven T. Drees, 19, of Peshtigo, Wis., died June 28 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, in Landstuhl, Germany, of injuries sustained June 24 in Konar Province, Afghanistan, when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire and a rocket-propelled-grenade launcher. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.
Let us keep the Family and fellow Soldiers of PVT Drees in our thoughts and prayers.
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Note from Bob to new readers: Since OIF I, I have always led my updates with any casualty information I have about our Soldiers. I will never report anything until it has been confirmed and released by Department of Defense. Out of respect to any fallen Soldiers and their Families, I will continue to lead with that news when we have it. Hopefully, we will go a long time before I have more casualty information to report.
And for those of you watching news reports that came out this morning about the Soldier missing in Afghanistan, that is not in any of the provinces where 4BCT, 4ID is operating. Pray for that Soldier, his Family and his fellow Soldiers. I sure everything possible is being done to locate him.
Keep in mind - No News is Good News Because Bad News Travels Fast. I would think that the Family of the missing Soldier has been notified by now - he went missing on Tuesday.
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Chaplain George Knapp - 12th Infantry Regiment WWII - 1916 - 2009
It saddens me to report that we lost one of our great WWII 4ID vets on Sunday, June 28. George Knapp is now living with God, who he served so nobly all his life. George landed on Utah Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944 as a chaplain with the 12th Infantry Regiment and served our 4ID Soldiers for the duration of the war. For many years, he continued to serve as chaplain for the National 4th Infantry Division Association, until he was named Chaplain Emeritus two or three years ago. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Following is one of three stories that George sent me to include in my book, "War Stories - Utah Beach to Pleiku".
A Chaplain’s View of War
George Knapp, Westchester, IL - Chaplain, HQ, 12th Infantry Regiment
After a few months in England, the 4th Infantry Division made the amphibious landing as invading assault troops on Utah Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Because of severe weather the invasion was postponed a day, so we bounced around in the English Channel on that day of waiting. Many soldiers were seasick.
I was a bit sick but never missed a meal of those delicious C-rations on the ship.
On the morning of June 6 we went down the side of the ship on the rope ladders to the landing craft bouncing wildly on the rough sea. Virginia wonders how I made it down with my Field Altar Communion set in one hand and a personal effects bag in the other. Anyhow, I made it, and the landing craft luckily made it to the beach, and the ramp went down on that sandy beach.
Some assault waves had preceded us, so we witnessed burning vehicles, bomb craters, wounded, dead, and dying soldiers, and other devastations of war. Our goal was to keep moving. It was a numbing shock for me to see the destruction of material and the dead and dying. As a pastor, I had officiated at a number of funerals. All of my life, I had seen the deceased all dressed up, with nice caskets, flowers etc.
This was different. In my memory, I can see the paratroopers hanging in the trees of the wooded areas just in from the beach. They had dropped sometime after midnight, and in the darkness their parachutes had became entangled in the tall trees. They had been shot and killed by the enemy as they hung there. I also
saw gliders that had landed among the trees, resulting in death or injury to the occupants. One glider was carrying four soldiers with a jeep behind them. When it crashed into a large tree not far above the ground, the jeep broke loose from its moorings, crashing into and killing the men.
We had to keep moving, and there was nothing we could do for the men, except breathe a prayer, so we kept on moving. The dead men, by the way, looked as if they had just fallen asleep and were sitting there.
Speaking of trees, two medics and I used a tree trunk that first night to sit around and catch a bit of rest. I was still carrying my field altar and “ditty-bag.” My jeep and trailer, with my chaplain’s assistant, had landed via a different craft. For days, I had no opportunity to use my jeep trailer as it was commandeered in carrying the wounded.
At first, the three chaplains of the 12th Infantry Regiment stayed with our individual battalions. I was the 3rd Battalion chaplain. After a week or so, orders came from the Division Chaplain that the Commanding General wanted his chaplains to serve at the Regimental Aid Station, but not right at the front lines amidst the fighting. The General said, “I only have fifteen chaplains and if you are killed or wounded, there is no one to replace you.” Some served a bit behind the front lines.
The 12th Infantry Regiment did lose one chaplain, killed instantly by enemy shrapnel while he was in the Regimental Command tent. Other chaplains were replaced due to injury, illness, etc. I received a minor enemy shrapnel injury and was awarded the Purple Heart. I guess my fellow soldiers thought I did a good job, as I was also awarded the Bronze Star. It was not easy, even though I had volunteered for the chaplaincy.
After about a week in combat, it almost got the best of me. After hearing a young company commander talk of getting orders to move out again and how exhausted his men were, it hit me emotionally. I just walked across to the other side of the field, lay down and had a good cry. I then said to myself, “Enough is enough. I volunteered for this job, so let’s get going.”
As history recorded, the 4th Infantry Division had the highest rate of casualties of any outfit that fought in Europe. We had two hundred casualties a day. Some died before they could be evacuated. Besides our prayers and words of comfort and encouragement, we helped the wounded by giving a drink of water, etc. If
their hands were wounded, we helped them enjoy a few drags on a cigarette.
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65 Years Ago - 4ID in Normandy, France - 1-15 July 1944
1 to 3 July 1944 - D+25-27 - Vicinity of Gourbesville: reorganization and training that covered lessons learned and deficiencies noted.
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From a retired Lieutenant General whose father served in 4ID in WWII and who receives these updates: Ref 4th ID- June '44. By 1 July my Dad had been wounded twice; evacuated to England where he spent 10 days in the hospital; and returned to duty in France. A month later at St Lo as Co Cdr of G/22d he was wounded quite seriously (armor piercing round in the leg - taken out of his stomach) and evacuated again to England where he remained until Feb of 45. He had to fight the bureaucracy and Docs to rejoin his beloved 22d after he had healed. What sacrifices 22d and 4ID Soldiers have made for our Nation through the years! I know my Dad's watching down with great pride at 1-22's and 2-22's performance in Iraq.
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4 July 1944 - D+28 - Gradual movement of the Division to the south so that an attack could be launched through the lines of the 83rd Infantry Division. The 12th Regiment moved at 1100 by foot and motor to an assembly area in the vicinity of the 90th Infantry Division (Appeville), closing into the area at 2015. Moving of various companies or battalions of other units plus the command post of the Division.
5 July 1944 - D+29 - The 8th Infantry moved from La Lande to another assembly area in the vicinity of Appeville (closed at 2220). The 12th Infantry moved from its assembly area to another in the vicinity of Auvers (closed at 2215). The 22nd Infantry did not move.
6 July 1944 - D+30 - The enemy defended organized log and sand bag emplacements with rifle and automatic weapons, utilizing good fields of fire and covering the narrow corridor through which the leading elements had to pass. The 8th Infantry moved from its assembly area and made preparation for a night attack. The 12th Infantry launched an attack at 0930, seized and secured positions. The 22nd Infantry moved by motor and remained in an assembly area as division reserve.
7 July 1944 - D+31 - The enemy continued to defend from well-organized positions utilizing a maximum of automatic weapons. The 8th Infantry attacked at 0300. The 1st Battalion failed to cross the inundated area due to heavy automatic small arms fire. The 2nd Bn crossed but being in an untenable position at daylight, it was ordered to withdraw to the line of departure. The 12th Infantry attacked at 0630 and advanced slowly against heavy opposition. It prepared to renew the attack at 1400 and after an air bombardment and artillery preparation, it moved forward. The 22nd Infantry remained in division reserve.
8 July 1944 - D+32 - Fighting a stubborn rear guard action, the enemy withdrew, using scattered interdiction and harassing fires. Preceded by a dive bombing and fifteen minutes artillery preparation, a coordinated attack was made by the 8th Infantry with parts of the 70th Tank Bn, 801st Tank Destroyer Bn, 87th Chemical Bn and 377th AA Artillery plus Company D of the 22nd Infantry. The 12th Infantry passed to division reserve and remained in its positions, maintaining active patrols to the front and flanks.
9 July 1944 - D+33 - The enemy continued to fight a stubborn delaying action in conjunction with local counterattacks. It withdrew from one prepared defensive position to another and continued to interdict important crossroads and road junctions. A coordinated attack was launched at 0830 and progressed during the day against hedgerow opposition. The 12th Infantry remained in division reserve, except the 1st Bn that was committed to fill the gap between the 8th and the 22nd Infantry regiments. The first issue of "B" rations was fed; with this issue, all troops not actually in the line were fed hot meals.
10 July 1944 - D+34 - Continuing its stubborn resistance, the enemy slowly fell back. An ever-increasing usage of armor and self propelled guns had been noted. The 8th Infantry launched a coordinated attack at 0830 and progressed during the day against constant opposition from Blehou. The 12th Infantry launched a coordinated attack in conjunction with the 8th Infantry, from the vicinity of Les Forges and encountered heavy resistance. The 22nd also launched a coordinated attack from the vicinity of Les Forges, seized and secured positions.
11 July 1944 - D+35 - The enemy continued to offer strong resistance by occupying hasty defenses and well placed machine gun positions. Defensive employment of small units of armor continued. The 8th Infantry attacked at 0900 and occupied the towns of Les Aubrees and Blehou with no enemy opposition. Patrols crossed the Sèves river and occupied the area. The 12th Infantry attacked at 1000 and mopped up the area between Longueville-La Maugerie. The mission was completed at 1600. The 22nd Infantry attacked at 0900 and heavy enemy resistance was encountered throughout the day.
12 July 1944 - D+36 - The 22nd Infantry launched its attack at 0915 to capture the objectives east of Périers and encountered stiff enemy resistance. Enemy's strong resistance and extremely accurate artillery concentrations continued. The 8th Infantry supported the attack of the 22nd Infantry with all available firepower. The regiment remained in its former position and patrols were initiated across the Molerotte river. The 12th Infantry, in division reserve, assembled and moved to follow the advance of the 22nd Infantry and to protect the left flank and rear of the division. At 2145, the regiment started relieving the 22nd Infantry. Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. died of a heart attack.
13 July 1944 - D+37 - Enemy tanks and troops appeared to be attempting to create the impression that they were in greater strength. The 8th Infantry, as on the preceding day, supported the attack of the 12th Infantry by fire from its positions. The 12th Infantry completed the relief of the 22nd Infantry and launched an attack at 0930. After a short advance to the southwest, the attack was halted by small arms and artillery fire. It was resumed at 1930 but little progress was made. The 22nd Infantry moved to an assembly area and prepared to follow the advance of the 12th Infantry.
14 July 1944 - D+38 - There was no active contact with the enemy except for a slight increase of artillery fire in rear areas. The 8th Infantry remained in positions formerly occupied. The 12th Infantry remained in position and prepared to attack to the south awaiting favorable weather conditions for air support. The 22nd Infantry remained in its assembly area.
15 July 1944 - D+39 - The 17th SS Panzer Division withdrew under the covering of the 6th Parachute Regiment. Considerable shelling of the rear areas and increasing numbers of mines found which had been hastily laid by the retreating enemy. The 8th Infantry launched an attack at 1015 in conjunction with the 12th Infantry. Upon reaching the objective at 1800, the regiment organized positions for defense. The 12th Infantry did the same at 2100. The 22nd Infantry remained in assembly area as division reserve.
Thanks to Philippe Cornil for providing these for us. You can find this information, plus pictures from the WWII action, at his website at http://www.ordinateurslaval.ca/Normandie .
And, if you're visiting Normandy and need a great place to stay, or a guide who loves the 4ID and can show you all the highlights, check out his bed and breakfast site at Chambres d'hôtes - Guest House Normandy : http://www.lamaisondeshotes.com Deeds, not words.
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AFGHANISTAN NEWS
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We lead with several stories from 4BCT/4ID - they have taken responsibility for the provinces of Nangahar, Nuristan, Kunar, and Laghman in northeastern Afghanistan. (Now that it has been formally announced in press releases, we can talk about those specific provinces where they will be working for the next year).
First Newsletter from 4BCT/4ID CO
June 26, 2009
Hello, or as they say here in Afghanistan, As-Salam Aleikum! The Warriors have arrived in full force here in Afghanistan and we're settling in and getting used to our environment. During the last couple of weeks, we have been working closely with the unit from Fort Hood, Texas to learn everything we can from their experiences the past year here in order to ensure our take over from them is seamless. Today, the Mountain Warriors assumed control of our area of operations. Because we are currently the only Brigade Combat Team from the 4th Infantry Division over here, we will fall under the command of the Combined Joint Task Force-82, led by the 82nd Airborne Division Commander, Major General Curtis Scaparrotti, and Command Sergeant Major Thomas Capel.
It's hot, hot, hot here, but incredibly scenic, as well. The Mountain Warriors are spread over a huge amount of terrain so where and how our Soldiers live is unique to the area they are in. Our Task Force Headquarters is located in Jalabad, a city of about 1 million. Many of our troopers, however, are located in very rugged mountainous terrain similar to what you’d find in central Colorado. We have all been surprised to see how the Afghans build houses and villages right into the deep mountain passes. We have Combat Outposts (COPs) located throughout our area of operations – many of them are austere even by “Soldier” standards. Despite the conditions, I’ve seen nothing but motivation and eagerness by our Soldiers to charge forward with the mission at hand.
We’ll all be at our final destinations shortly, so I encourage you all to take the time to write a letter or send a package to your Soldier. The mailing addresses are posted on the Warrior vFRG website. I can't think of a bigger morale booster than a letter from home!
Our arrival here coincides with the critical Afghanistan National Elections. This August election will be the second national election process for the Afghans. We are supporting the Afghan National Security Forces as they work to ensure a safe and secure election process. Elections will be our initial focus, however, our continuing mission is to partner with and build Afghan security force and government capacity to bring stability and allow development to continue. We have many other agencies and talent on our team to help us out. We are fortunate to have members of the State Department, Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs), and embedded police and army training teams to name a few.
As ever in the Army, where change is the order of the day, we have exciting news to share with the entire Mountain Warrior Family. Our Brigade Command Sergeant Major, CSM Johnson, was selected to become the Division CSM for the 1st Armored Division. He'll be heading back to Colorado very soon to pack up and begin another Army adventure. He, Chris and the kids will move to Germany and help prepare his new unit for a mission to Iraq and then deploy again. Certainly, the 1st Armored Division's gain is our loss, but we are thrilled those fine Soldiers will get a consummate professional who will help prepare them well for their mission.
CSM Johnson's boots will be incredibly tough to fill, but if any Soldier can do it, our own CSM Charles Sasser, currently the 2-12, Lethal Warrior Battalion CSM, is the man. CSM Sasser and his wife Frances have a long history with 4-4 and they know and love this unit. All our Soldiers are in great hands as CSM Sasser assumes responsibilities as the Mountain Warrior CSM.
As I close this note, I pray for your continued strength to endure this deployment and your positive support for all of us over the next year. I hope all the Families have heard from their Soldier and feel a sense of peace knowing how well-trained every Warrior Soldier is. As always, if you have not heard from your Family Readiness Group, it's because they don't know you're out there! With 1500 Families spread across the United States, it is a monumental task to reach each of you. I encourage you to take a moment to check the Warrior vFRG website. Our Rear Detachment, FRG volunteers and a host of Army agencies are available to answer your questions or help you. The FRGs are a fantastic network of support for all our Warrior families. Our Rear Detachment and FRG are coordinating for Stress to Strength Family Workshops in August – stay tuned.
With each letter I post, I will try to answer a question from a family member. The first question comes from my own company, HHC/BCT. The family member asks: "Is it true that you all have to use donkeys to get around in the rough Afghanistan terrain?" ANSWER: Yes, there are places where we use donkeys to conduct resupply… and in fact, when we were still in Colorado we actually sent troopers out to be trained to handle donkeys!"
I wish all the best to each and every one of you and your families. God bless our Mountain Warrior team.
Led By Love of Country!
Colonel Randy George
CDR, TF Mountain Warrior
FOB Fenty(Jalalabad) Afghanistan
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Task Force Mountain Warrior assumes authority of N2KL
Story by Spc. Eugene Cushing
4th BCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs
June 26, 2009
Nangahar Province, Afghanistan– Task Force Mountain Warrior assumed responsibility of Nangarhar, Nuristan, Kunar, and Laghman Provinces on June 26, 2009 in a Transfer of Authority ceremony at Forward Operating Base Fenty in Jalalabad, relieving the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division of Fort Hood, Texas.
The ceremony included an uncasing of the Brigade colors by Colonel Randy A. George, Task Force Mountain Warrior Commander, and Command Sergeant Major Charles V. Sasser, Task Force Mountain Warrior Command Sergeant Major, symbolizing the unit’s readiness and authority over Area of Operations Mountain Warrior.
Task Force Mountain Warrior is aided by the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, or Task Force Chosin, of Fort Drum, New York, the 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment, or Task Force Bayonet, of the Illinois National Guard, and two companies from Fort Carson’s 759th Military Police Battalion, or Task Force Sentinel.
In attendance were provincial governors, local national media, and the Combined Joint Task Force-82 Commander, Maj. Gen. Curtis M. Scaparroti.
“We have trained hard in the mountains of Colorado for the demanding terrain of this mission,” said George. “Task Force Mountain Warrior is ready to get to work.”
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Soldiers work with local leaders to keep district safe
Story by SSgt. Justin Weaver
1-12 IN Public Affairs Office
June 23, 2009
Kandahar, Afghanistan– International Security Assistance Forces and the Maywand district sub-governor met at a security shura June 23 to discuss ways ISAF units can work with local police and civic leaders to help improve security in the Maywand district.
Hajji Obidullah Bawary, the Maywand District sub-governor, and Capt. Tom Lamb, Company D Commander, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, led the security meeting for the Maywand district and ISAF respectively.
Col. Niamatullah, Maywand District Chief of Police, also attended the shura, with hopes this meeting would help improve the communication between the coalition forces and the local civic and military leaders. He stressed their eagerness to work with ISAF forces to help make a way ahead for the Afghan people. “We are ready for any kind of mission to help fight these insurgents,” said Niamatullah. “We are also ready to help with the upcoming election.”
The security shura, held just inside the walls of combat outpost Rath, aimed to set the conditions for a secure environment in the Maywand District, without pressure from Taliban and Anti-Afghan forces.
“We will never be successful here if we don’t work with the local people,” said Lamb. “If we don’t understand their problems, we can’t meet their needs.”
Improvised explosive devices have proven to be a prevalent threat to ISAF forces in the Maywand District, with more than 20 IEDs found in the past month.
The Afghanistan National Army has proven to be a huge asset to the IED team located at Forward Operating Base Ramrod. In the past week, the ANA have found several IEDs and weapons caches. “The ANA have really stepped up ... and are finding a lot of IEDs. It’s extremely important that we continue working together,” said Lamb. “These meetings ensure we stay on the same page and address and discuss any security or personnel issues they might have.”
1-12 IN recently took command of the Maywand District, relieving the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment from Fort Hood, Texas. Their mission is to conduct counter-insurgency operations to defeat Anti-Afghan Forces, secure the safety of the population and extend the influence and control of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan throughout the Maywand District.
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3-61 Cavalry takes authority of AO Raider
Story by Spc. Eugene Cushing
4th BCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs
June 27, 2009
Nuristan Province, Afghanistan– The 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, took responsibility of eastern Nuristan province on June 20 in a Transfer of Authority Ceremony at Forward Operating Base Bostick, relieving the 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, from Fort Hood, Texas.
The ceremony included an unveiling of the Squadron’s colors by the Commander, Lt. Col. Robert B. Brown, of Temple, Texas and Command Sgt. Maj. Robert L. Wilson, of Orlando, Fla., the Squadron Sergeant Major.
Brown said the Transfer of Authority established that the squadron now has responsibility over the area.
“It’s really a milestone that says our training is complete, and we’re ready to conduct our mission in the next twelve months,” he said.
Wilson explained why the Transfer of Authority between units was important. “It’s to show our Afghan partners that there has been a change. It’s the official marking of the change,” he said.
Sgt. Frank P. Berrios, of Bronx, N.Y., and the support office Non-Commissioned Officer in charge for Troop D, 3-61 Cav., 4BCT, 4ID, was one of the guests at the ceremony. “I think it was a nice ceremony,” he said. “I like seeing the countries get together and show their colors and make everybody else proud.” Berrios said the ceremony meant something else to him as well. “It’s proof that everything we’re doing here is working,” he said.
During the ceremony, Brown thanked 6-4 Cav., and spoke on the coming year. “All of our Soldiers look forward to working over the next year with the Afghan Army, the Afghan Security Guards, and our police partners,” he said.
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2-12 Infantry replaces 1-26 Infantry in Kunar
Story by Sgt. Michael Masterson
4th BCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs
June 27, 2009
Kunar Province, Afghanistan– The 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment took responsibility of a key region of Afghanistan’s Kunar Province on June 30, 2009 in a Transfer of Authority ceremony at Forward Operating Base Blessing in the Pech District, relieving the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment of Fort Hood, Texas.
The ceremony included an unveiling of the Battalion’s colors by Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Brian L. Pearl, of Colorado Springs, Colorado and Battalion Command Sergeant Major Darren A. Kinder, of Lexington, Kentucky, symbolizing the unit’s readiness and authority over the Area of Operations.
Pearl thanked the “Blue Spaders” of 1-26 IN for their hard work and sacrifices over the past year in Kunar Province, and recognized the achievements they had made in some of Afghanistan’s most dangerous areas. “Eighteen Blue Spaders gave their lives making Kunar Province a better place for Afghanistan,” said Pearl. “Collectively, we will continue to transform Kunar Province into the pride of Afghanistan.”
Those in attendance included Task Force Mountain Warrior Commander, Col. Randy A. George, Provincial Governor Sayid Wahidi, and several village elders from the area. “I know no one has trained harder for this fight and the mission here,” said George.
The Lethal Warriors of 2-12 IN are scheduled to operate in Kunar Province for the next twelve months.
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704th Support Battalion relieves 201st Support Battalion
Story and photos by Pfc. Elizabeth Raney
4th BCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs
June 29, 2009
Nangahar Province, Afghanistan– The 704th Brigade Support Battalion of Fort Carson, Colo. assumed responsibility of support operations for Task Force Mountain Warrior on June 29 in a Transfer of Authority ceremony at Forward Operating Base Fenty, relieving the 201st Brigade Support Battalion of Fort Hood, Texas.
The 704th Brigade Support Battalion, or Task Force Blacksmith, is assigned to Task Force Mountain Warrior while deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
The ceremony included an uncasing of the Battalion’s colors by Lt. Col. Robert A. Law, of Richfield, Conn., and Command Sergeant Major Larry A. Parks, of Tulsa, Okla., symbolizing the unit’s readiness and authority over the Area of Operations. Task Force Blacksmith will face challenging terrain in eastern Afghanistan as they support other units in Task Force Mountain Warrior.
“To the Blacksmiths: you are a disciplined, physically fit, and professional unit. You are more ready than any other Brigade Support Battalion in our Army for this mission,” said Col. Randy A. George, Commander, Task Force Mountain Warrior.
Lt. Col. Law discussed the 704th’s hard work during the past year’s train up at Fort Carson in preparation for this deployment to Afghanistan. “Blacksmiths: thank you for dedication to the mission over the past year,” said Law. Task Force Blacksmith is ready to begin their mission.
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TF Gryphon Engineers work with Afghan National Police to make elections safer
Story by Pfc. Elizabeth Raney
4th IBCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs
June 24, 2009
Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan– Engineer Soldiers from 1st platoon, Company A, Task Force Gryphon, conducted a polling center assessment in the Pachir Agam District of Nangarhar Province on June 14. The Soldiers partnered with Afghan National Police to assess potential polling center locations for safety and security that could be used during the Afghan National Election scheduled for August 20.
“The most important goal of today was to make sure that the polling sites for the elections are safe and secure for the Afghan people,” said 2nd Lt. Brian Schroeder of Davenport, Nebraska, 1st Platoon leader, Company A, Task Force Gryphon. “The Afghan National Police that were partnered with us today played an instrumental role in pulling security and helping us assess the condition of the sites.”
Gryphon Soldiers expressed the importance and effectiveness of partnering with the Afghan National Police. “It’s great getting to work with the Afghan National Police. I think the locals really appreciate seeing the joint effort between us,” said Spc. Sean Heffron, a member of 1st Platoon, Company A, Task Force Gryphon, of Syracuse, New York.
Engineer Soldiers from Company A, Task Force Gryphon, will continue to accompany Afghan National Police on missions to ensure the sites are safe and able to sustain the people of Nangarhar province as they vote in the second national election since the fall of the Taliban.
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Task Force Surgeon and Medics give care and comfort
Story by Pfc. Elizabeth K. Raney
4th IBCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs
June 24, 2009
Whenever a Task Force Mountain Warrior Soldier heads out for a mission, he knows if something happens, he will be taken care of. That’s the job of Capt. Joe Mazzoncini, TF Mountain Warrior’s brigade surgeon, based out of FOB Fenty, Afghanistan. If the unspeakable happens, the Soldiers will be treated with speed, expertise, and compassion.
Although Mazzoncini holds the title of Brigade Surgeon, you will never find him near an operating room. According to him, the title is the traditional Army title given to the head doctor of a brigade. “My job is to make sure all of our medics are the best in the world, and our systems are firing on all cylinders,” said Mazzoncini. “No matter what, our Service members get the fastest and best medical care possible.”
Keeping those ‘cylinders firing’ often take up large portions of Mazzoncini’s day. According to him, he may only get to see 15 to 20 patients per week. Because he is so busy with administrative work and other demands of his leadership position, Mazzoncini relies on his fellow medical professionals for help.
Mazzoncini went on to say, it’s the professionalism of the medics, doctors and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) personnel of TF Mountain Warrior that give our Soldiers the courage to fight in combat.
“We have, without a doubt, the best team out there,” he said proudly.
According to Mazzoncini the largest threat his team sees is from non-combat related injuries and diseases. “They are the number one threat here,” Mazzoncini said.
The most commonly contracted diseases in Afghanistan are malaria, passed through mosquito bites, Leishmaniasis, passed by sand flies, and less commonly, rabies from unvaccinated animals, according to Mazzoncini.
Mazzoncini described steps the Army has taken to help prevent these diseases and other injuries. Every Soldier is given a medical threat brief prior to deployment, and is also taking daily antibiotics to help prevent malaria. Additionally, Service members are warned not to touch unknown animals in case of rabies. As a precaution, animals are kept off of the military installations.
Mazzoncini also said there are other injuries that are common to Service members in Afghanistan such as dehydration and problems adapting to the altitude. “Heat and cold injuries are also a big deal here,” said Mazzoncini.
Mazzoncini went on to say, “The best cure is prevention.” Leaders need to watch out for their Soldiers and Soldiers watch out for each other. “Everything we do here is to ensure the best medical care for our fellow Soldiers,” Mazzoncini said.
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Pentagon Official Explains Force Structure in Afghanistan
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 1, 2009 - It would be easy to confuse Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan with the NATO International Security Assistance Force there. Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal commands both organizations. The biggest difference, officials say, is the mission.
Operation Enduring Freedom was the U.S.-led operation that toppled the Taliban in 2001. American and coalition service members worked with the Afghan Northern Alliance soon after the terror attack in the United States on Sept. 11, 2001. Part of Operation Enduring Freedom retains that mission: to find and kill or capture terrorists.
Since 2001, service members assigned to Operation Enduring Freedom also have been responsible for training Afghan security forces. Americans assigned to Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan operate under Operation Enduring Freedom, controlled by U.S. Central Command.
While Operation Enduring Freedom troops are focused on forcing out the enemy and training and equipping Afghan forces, NATO forces are focused on Afghan civilians.
"The focus of the International Security Assistance Force is security for the Afghan people, so reconstruction, governance and development work can take place," Army Lt. Col. Mark Wright, a Pentagon spokesman, said. "The focus of Operation Enduring Freedom personnel is training Afghan security forces and counter-terrorism."
About 85 percent of the Operation Enduring Freedom effort now is centered on training and equipping Afghan forces, Wright said.
The United Nations established ISAF in 2001. The force was responsible for security in and around the Afghan capital of Kabul and various nations volunteered to command the force on six-month rotations. NATO took command of the force on Aug. 11, 2003. Control expanded to Regional Command North in 2004, Regional Command West in 2005, Regional Command South in 2006 and Regional Command East in 2006. The ISAF mission is to assist the Afghan government by providing a secure and stable environment.
"ISAF and Afghan forces conduct operations throughout the country to defend the people from the Taliban and other terrorist groups," Wright said.
American forces assigned to ISAF come under the control of U.S. European Command. Of the 57,000 U.S. service members serving in Afghanistan, 28,850 are in ISAF.
(Note from Bob - our 4BCT, 4ID Soldiers are part of ISAF and wear the ISAF patch on their left sleeves, just above the 4ID patch).
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IRAQ NEWS
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As U.S. Meets Withdrawal Deadline, Baghdad Declares Holiday
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, June 30, 2009 - As the United States completed its withdrawal of combat forces from Iraqi cities in accordance with today's deadline, Baghdad commemorated the milestone with a national holiday.
The departing American brigades and battalions leave behind a significantly smaller contingent of U.S. trainers and advisors in the cities, where Iraqi forces now have primary authority, the top U.S. commander in Iraq said. The move comes as part of the status of forces agreement between the United States and Iraq.
"A small number of U.S. forces will remain in cities to train, advise, coordinate with Iraqi security forces, as well as enable them to move forward," Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno told reporters at the Pentagon today. The general declined to provide the number of troops to remain, saying that the figure will fluctuate on a daily basis.
Meanwhile, news reports from Baghdad describe Iraqis marking the day with a military parade attended by Iraqi reporters and dignitaries in the international area known as the "Green Zone" at the official monument to an unknown soldier.
Similar celebrations took place around the country in recent days as the American drawdown from cities neared completion. A U.S. military video shot yesterday in Baqubah, a city north of the Iraqi capital in Diyala province, shows a parade in which Iraqi police march through a city scene marked by a distinct absence of American boots on the ground.
Since October, the United States has closed or returned to Iraqi authority 150 bases and facilities, including 30 this month. Odierno noted that U.S. troops have been out of most Iraqi cities for the last eight months, with drawdowns over the last few weeks focusing mainly on Mosul and Baghdad.
But today's transfer of responsibility to Iraqi security forces represents a "significant milestone," Odierno said.
"It is a day when Iraqis celebrate as they continue to move towards exercising their full sovereignty," he said. "The Iraqi people should be very proud of the dedication, progress and sacrifice of the Iraqi security forces and the government of Iraq. Their accomplishments in preparing for this day are commendable."
As Iraqis secure the cities, Odierno said, U.S. forces are establishing a layer of defense outside the urban areas, conducting full-spectrum and stability operations alongside Iraqis to eliminate safe havens, crack down on insurgents and stem the flow of foreign fighters. U.S. forces also will support civil efforts led by the U.S. Embassy, the Iraqi government, and the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq, he said.
"Our combat forces, partnering with the Iraqi security forces, will secure the belts and borders in an attempt to eliminate safe havens and sanctuaries and to limit freedom of movement of insurgents and prevent the facilitation of foreign fighters through the borders," he said.
The United States is committed to full, transparent and continued implementation of the security agreement in a spirit of partnership with the sovereign nation of Iraq, Odierno said. President Barack Obama has announced plans to commence a phased drawdown of U.S. combat brigades from Iraq by Aug. 31, 2010.
As Iraqis celebrate a nationwide holiday highlighting their added responsibility, Americans also can be proud of the efforts by U.S. forces to stabilize Iraq, which last month had the lowest levels of violence since the war began six years ago, the general noted.
"The American people can also be very proud, as well, of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as our civilians, who have worked so hard over the past years -- and tirelessly -- and sacrificed so much in helping the people of Iraq progress towards a peaceful and democratic society," Odierno said.
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On the Ground: Forces Strengthen Support Role in Iraq
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 1, 2009 – U.S. forces in Iraq helped to bolster Iraqi sovereignty in recent days with the opening of a new health care center and the return of two combat outposts to Iraqi control....
Elsewhere, the Service Battery of 1st Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 172nd Brigade Combat Team, handed over control of Combat Outpost Summers, near Suwayrah, to the 32nd Iraqi Army Brigade on June 29.
Summers was the fifth and final security station in Wasit province to be returned to Iraqi control under the U.S.-Iraq security agreement, which called for all U.S. combat troops to withdraw from Iraqi cities by yesterday.
"Tomorrow you should be standing very tall," Army Col. Dick Francey, 41st Fires Brigade commander and commander of U.S. troops in Wasit province, told Iraqi soldiers at the ceremony. "Iraqi security forces are capable of protecting their people," he said. "We stand by you as friends and realize you are in the lead."
In compliance with the agreement, 1st Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, Soldiers moved to Forward Operating Base Delta after the ceremony. The battalion will take authority of the base and U.S. troops in Wasit when the 41st Fires Brigade redeploys to Fort Hood, Texas, in early August.
The Service Battery Soldiers had lived and worked with their Iraqi partners on Summers since January.
In Basra, elements of the 21st Military Police Company and 178th Military Police Company, attached to the 4th Infantry Division’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team, withdrew all supplies and personnel and returned control of Combat Outpost Perry and the Old State Building to the Iraqi army June 28.
"This is a symbolic moment for the people of Iraq. It's exciting to watch the Iraqi army step up and protect their people," said Army 1st Lt. Jeremy Poisson, platoon leader for the 178th Military Police Company.
Army Col. Butch Kievenaar, commander of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, said two other locations will continue to have a U.S. presence to coordinate, train and advise Iraqi security forces at the request of provincial leaders.
(From U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division and Multinational Division South news releases. Army Sgt. Allison Churchill of the 41st Fires Brigade and Army Staff Sgt. Carlos M. Burger II of the 4th Infantry Division’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team contributed to this report.)
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Security Agreement Implementation Announced
The Department of Defense announced today (June 30) that, in accordance with the security agreement between the United States and Iraq signed last year, U.S. combat forces have left Iraqi cities, villages and localities.
This historic security agreement between the United States and Iraq is indicative of Iraq's confidence, capacity and capability as U.S. combat forces move out of Iraq's urban areas. At the forefront of creating a sovereign, stable and self-reliant Iraq and developing an environment of political and economic growth, significant investments have been made in infrastructure, training, equipment, essential services, and the institution of rule of law to benefit all Iraqis.
As U.S. combat forces move out of the localities, Iraqi security forces (ISF) are assuming responsibility for security, a significant step for Iraq and a tribute to the tremendous progress made and dedication of the ISF members.
"The United States is committed to full, transparent, and continued implementation of the security agreement in a spirit of partnership with the sovereign nation of Iraq. Iraqi security forces continue to take the lead in the security and stability of Iraq," said Gen. Ray Odierno, commanding general, Multi-National Force Iraq.
U.S. forces outside urban areas will continue to conduct operations by, with, and through, ISF, focusing on securing Iraqi borders and areas outside the cities. "In order to meet our obligations under the security agreement, some U.S. forces will remain in cities to train, advise, and coordinate with Iraqi security forces, as well as support civil capacity efforts led by the U.S. Mission-Iraq, government of Iraq (GoI) and the United Nations. All U.S. forces retain full authority and ability to protect themselves, Iraqi security forces, and the Iraqi public," said Odierno.
To date, more than 150 U.S. bases have been closed or returned to the GoI since January 2008. U.S. troop strength has decreased to 131,000 from a high of 165,574 in September 2007. Contractors have also decreased from 164,491 to 125,163 today.
Additionally, more than $15 million of property has been transferred to the GoI. The United States will continue to reduce both number of bases and combat forces in 2010 through the end of 2011.
Increased security, improved Iraqi security forces, and continued progress in local and national government capacity has set the conditions for U.S. forces to withdraw from the cities.
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Warhorse Soldiers visit fish market, assess construction progress
By Staff Sgt. Rodney Foliente, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. PAO
June 26, 2009
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, visited the Abu al-Khasib District market June 24 to assess the progress of the new fish market building and speak with local vendors. The project, which includes three other fish markets throughout the city, was initiated by and coordinated with the Basra government.
“With the new Abu al-Khasib fish market, they will have a more sanitary and cleaner environment to store and sell their fish,” said Staff Sgt. Hugo Rivera, civil liaison team noncommissioned officer with the 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.
During the visit, vendors had piles of fish sitting in less than an inch of warm water, with a motley collection of sun tarps overhead to block out some of the heat, which was greater than 130 degrees Fahrenheit. To keep the fish looking better and discourage flies, the vendors scooped up water with their hands and splashed it over the fish. Consequently, sales appeared to dwindle drastically as the fish continued to sit in the constant heat.
The new building, which is slated to be completed in September, will have 26 stalls with running water, electricity, ceiling fans and air conditioning, as well as storage and display areas which can be filled with ice to keep the product fresh, continued Rivera, who comes from Oxnard, Calif.
“With the new building completed, they can show (customers) fish which will be clean and sanitary and frozen,” said Rivera. “They are happy that the fish will be fresher, they will have electricity and that the building will be done (soon).”
“The new fish market will help us because there will be better conditions for us to sell our fish,” said Kalaf, a fish vendor, through an interpreter. He said that he is eager for its completion, because the new conditions will allow the fish to stay fresher longer and appear more appealing to customers, resulting in greater sales.
The fish market is one of three that are currently being built in Basra, with an additional fish market recently completed in the al-Querna District. Approximately one million dollars have been spent or allocated for the fish market projects throughout the city. By using local contractors and laborers, most of that money also helps stimulate the local economy. Rivera added that the workers have expressed pride in doing their part in improving their city.
“The al-Querna fish market had the same conditions as the Abu al-Khasib fish market before the new one was built. They were selling their fish in unsanitary conditions. Once that fish market was complete, you could see a small boom in their local commerce,” said Rivera.
“The fish markets are small projects, but also great projects that will bring more commerce to the districts. It is a small stepping stone but it will make a big difference for the people involved,” continued Rivera.
“A project like this shows the people of Basra that the government of Iraq is at the stage where there is a lot of progress,” said Rivera. Based on his interaction with various citizens, he said the people seem happy with their government’s efforts in improving the quality of life with projects and new constructions.
“They’re very proud that their government is taking charge and working for (the people). This is showing the Iraqi people what a democracy looks like,” concluded Rivera.
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CAB brings 100% of aviators home
Command team credits teamwork, leadership for success
By Sgt. Jason Thompson
4th Inf. Div. PAO
June 29, 2009
The 4th Infantry Division's Combat Aviation Brigade found another reason to celebrate its recent return from a successful year-long deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom – everyone returned home to their Families. The “Iron Eagle” Brigade didn't lose one Soldier or aircraft during its deployment to Taji, Iraq, said Col. Patrick Tierney, the brigade's commander.
“We’re the first aviation brigade in history to return from combat with zero losses – neither casualties nor aircraft,” said Tierney, adding that the accomplishment is even more remarkable as it is often a difficult task to accomplish during peacetime operations. “It’s difficult to put these aircraft in the air for the number of hours that the mission required of them and not have any incidents,” added Tierney. “By the time you add in all the environmental conditions we had to overcome – dust, heat, the small area of operations and the enemy forces shooting at us – this really is an amazing achievement for the entire Aviation Branch, not only 4th Inf. Div.”
Tierney credited the brigade’s success to the leaders at the lowest levels, taking initiative, ensuring everyone’s job was completed to standard, and meeting safety requirements.
Tierney, Command Sgt. Maj. Archie Davis Jr., and Iron Eagle Soldiers reunited with their Families, friends and community supporters in Fort Hood early June. “As leaders, we want nothing more than to train the Soldiers under us to be able to perform their job well enough that we can accomplish this feat,” said Davis, the brigade’s senior enlisted leader. “It is truly remarkable to know that for 12 months in a combat environment every Soldier in this brigade performed to the highest standards, and we were able to bring everyone home. That says a lot for these Soldiers.”
Davis added that the workload throughout the entire deployment was nearly triple the operational tempo they’d experienced during garrison or training operations. “At any given time we had between 65 to 75 percent of our aircraft in operation for the entire year,” said Davis. “My hat’s off to the maintainers as each of the 110 aircraft in our fleet went through a complete strip and rebuild (phase maintenance) at least once during the deployment, yet we were never unable to meet the demands of the mission due to maintenance delays.”
Tierney added that the brigade’s success was the result of a full team effort from the maintainers and logistics specialists to the pilots and air traffic controllers and everyone-in-between. “My mission statement for everyone in the brigade, regardless of (military occupational specialty) was to ‘Launch aircraft,’” said Tierney. “Between the 5 million gallons of fuel pumped, the thousands of hours flown and the countless hours put in by the maintainers, everything came together throughout the deployment and everyone did their part flawlessly.”
Tierney added that the CAB received unprecedented amounts of support from the entire aviation branch which helped his brigade to accomplish their missions without failure.
Though the accomplishment of bringing everyone and everything home from a combat deployment was previously an unheard of accolade for an aviation brigade, Davis said he hopes as many of the CAB Soldiers move on to new duty assignments they take with them lessons learned to help future commands achieve the same results.
“These Soldiers now have the experience and knowledge to know that it can be done,” said Davis. “My hope is that the Soldiers pass on their knowledge, so other units can learn from our success; and this can be a recurring accomplishment. The Soldiers are the reason we did this. It was a whole team concept and each and every one of the 4th Inf. Div. Combat Aviation Brigade Soldiers should be proud of what we accomplished as a team.”
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Brigade arrives at Fort Carson
June 25, 2009 - 10:02PM
A long-expected brigade of Soldiers joined Fort Carson's burgeoning ranks in a Thursday ceremony. The event marked the arrival of the 1st Brigade Combat Team of the 4th Infantry Division, which, along with the division's headquarters, is moving to the post from Fort Hood, Texas, this summer.
The 3,800 Soldiers in the brigade are equipped with tanks and Bradley Fighting Vehicles to take on armored enemies. Lately, though, the brigade has been locked in battle with Iraqi insurgents. The brigade returned from a yearlong tour in Baghdad earlier this year.
Fort Carson is gaining 6,500 Soldiers this summer, as the two units move here. The division headquarters is scheduled to formally call Fort Carson home next month. By year's end, the post will be home to nearly 25,000 Soldiers, up from 14,000 in 2003.
Copyright 2009 - Colorado Springs Gazette
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4th Infantry Division DSTB holds final Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Hood
4th Inf. Div. PAO
July 1, 2009
FORT HOOD, Texas –The 4th Infantry Division Special Troops Battalion congratulated its outgoing commander June 30 during a Change of Command Ceremony at Cameron Field, and welcomed its newest addition to the “Ironhorse” Family.
Standing one last time on the parade field before Soldiers, Families and friends in Fort Hood, Texas, Lt. Col. Dale Buckner, outgoing commander, DSTB, relinquished command to the DSTB’s newest commander, Lt. Col. Matthew Tedesco, who will lead the battalion after relocating to Fort Carson, Colo.
Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div., and reviewing officer for the ceremony welcomed Soldiers, Family and friends of the division and the Fort Hood community to say goodbye to Buckner, whose service enabled the 4th Inf. Div. Headquarters to lead more than 28,000 Soldiers, while performing more than 22,000 maintenance operations during Operation Iraqi Freedom 07-09.
Hammond applauded Buckner for ensuring key leaders had the flexibility to get into the fight to successfully accomplish any given mission. He also welcomed the Tedesco Family to the 4th Inf. Div. Family.
Buckner, a native of Rochester, N.Y., reflected on his 29 months of service as the battalion commander, including the completion of the battalion’s 15-month deployment in support of Multi-National Division–Baghdad, and thanked his officers and noncommissioned officers for their efforts during the recent relocation of more than 1,000 DSTB Soldiers and nearly 95 percent of the battalion’s equipment to Fort Carson.
“Today closes an outstanding chapter in the already phenomenal history of the 4th Inf. Div. and the most unique battalion in the U.S. Army,” said Buckner. “The DSTB has to be the most specialized, politically sensitive and decentralized team – and the largest of any battalion – in the Army, and these Soldiers and leaders have been running hard for the last 29 months.”
Buckner thanked the command group for their leadership and recognized the DSTB’s companies for their roles in ensuring excellence in training, maintenance, signal, personnel management, security and support. “Thanks to every DSTB Soldier; you have executed everything the nation has asked you to do – flawlessly,” he said. “This has personally been the most fulfilling two and a half years of my career, and I will be forever grateful.”
After the passing of the battalion colors, Tedesco thanked the distinguished leaders and visitors for the unique opportunity to command the DSTB and gave special thanks to his wife and Family for their continuing support.
Tedesco, a distinguished military graduate of Pennsylvania State University, commissioned in the Air Defense Artillery in 1991, made clear his enthusiasm to take command of the support battalion.
Tedesco is the third commander of the DSTB’s short history after standing up in 2005 and being called to combat twice.
“It is a great sense of honor and humility that I assume command today,” said Tedesco. “We are an Army at war and the command of this battle tested and accomplished battalion is an awesome responsibility that I eagerly embrace.”
The DSTB will continue to bring unparalleled support to the “Ivy” Division Headquarters as the unit remains fit for any test and progresses to be the most efficient lethal force in the 21st century combat environment.
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What Our Families Are Hearing From our Soldiers
1) Must not be any mail coming from overseas - at least if it is, none of you are passing any news on to me. Let me hear from you...
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That wraps up this update. Enjoy the long weekend for the 4th of July holiday. Don't forget to fly your flag and make sure patriotic activities are included in your celebrations of Independence Day.
Continue to pray for our Soldiers and their Families. The Marine operation that kicked off in southern Afghanistan this morning is not in a province where 4BCT/4ID is working so it is highly doubtful any of our 4ID Soldiers are involved in that. Next update will be in about a week.
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Bob Babcock - "Deeds not Words"
President, Deeds Publishing - www.deedspublishing.com
President, Americans Remembered - www.americansremembered.org
Past President, 22nd Infantry Regiment Society - www.22ndinfantry.org
Past President, Historian, National 4th Infantry Div Assn - www.4thinfantry.org
PO Box 682222, Marietta, GA 30068 - Phone 678-480-4422 (cell)
