Volume Four, Number 14 - 7-25-09
Mission - Soldier - Family - Team
For the latest news, pictures, and information from 4ID, regularly check:
http://www.hood.army.mil/4ID
In the interest of getting this update out this morning before I attend a full day of events at the National 4th Infantry Division Association annual reunion in St. Louis, I will skip the weather forecast for Iraq and Afghanistan - it's safe to assume it will be hot with minimal to no rain in both places.
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While these two Soldiers are not currently part of 4ID, they are from a unit that has historically been a part of 4ID since WWI. We paid tribute to these fallen Soldiers at the National 4th Infantry Division reunion in St. Louis on Friday.
DoD Identifies Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died July 22 in Zabul Province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle. They were assigned to the 4th Engineer Battalion, Fort Carson, Colo.
Killed were: Sgt. Joshua J. Rimer, 24, of Rochester, Pa.; and Spc. Randy L.J. Neff, Jr., 22, of Blackfoot, Idaho.
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Please keep SGT Rimer and SPC Neff in your thoughts and prayers.
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3-61 Cavalry honors Soldier’s ultimate sacrifice
Story by Spc. Eugene H. Cushing
4th BCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs
July 20, 2009
NURISTAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan – The Soldiers of C Troop, 3rd Squadron 61st Cavalry Regiment honored a fallen Soldier, friend, and role model on June 18 at Combat Out Post Pirtle-King, in Afghanistan’s Nuristan Province. Sgt. 1st Class Jason J. Fabrizi was a dedicated father and husband. A seasoned leader, who served as a model for his Soldiers, Fabrizi always sacrificed his own comfort to ensure they were well taken care of. Fabrizi made the ultimate sacrifice when he was killed in a complex attack while on patrol in the Nuristan Province.
Capt. Adam E. MacAllister, Fabrizi’s troop commander, said it was with great sadness that his unit bid farewell to Fabrizi. “Sgt. 1st Class Jason Fabrizi embodied the true spirit of this profession,” he said. “He was the ultimate example of the Army values and we are all better people and better Soldiers for having been graced by his presence.”
At the memorial, 1st Lt. George H. Rhynedance, Fabrizi’s platoon leader, said he will always remember Fabrizi as the man who gave him direction. “My heart is torn up over the loss of my friend,” he said. “Jason Fabrizi was my mentor and my teacher. He took care of me just like he took care of any other Soldier. Everything I know about being a good leader, about holding this family together, he taught me.” He said Fabrizi was the best at what he did, and was his personal role model. “My life is fuller from having known him, and I’ll carry him in my heart for the rest of my life,” he said.
Staff Sgt. Johnny E. Weaver, Fabrizi’s friend, said Fabrizi took all endeavors head on. “Sgt. Fabrizi had a zest for life that was matched by none,” he said. “Regardless of what he was doing, he was happy about it and set out, accomplishing it regardless of what it entailed.” Weaver said Fabrizi often thanked him for introducing him to his wife and that he was the husband and father that every man strives to be. “He was the epitome of a leader, father and friend,” he said.
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2-12 Infantry honors fallen hero
Story by Spc. Eugene H. Cushing
4th BCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs
July 20, 2009
NANGARHAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Spc. Gregory J. Missman, a truck driver from Company F, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, of Fort Carson, Colo., who made the ultimate sacrifice for his country, was honored by his comrades at a memorial on Forward Operating Base Fenty on July 14.
Missman died from injuries sustained when his unit came under attack while on patrol in the Nangarhar Province.
Missman rejoined the Army to provide for his son after a previous enlistment as an infantryman. His dedication surfaced as a leader who took charge and did everything within his power to ensure his unit was taken care of and on the right path.
Capt. Edward M. Gutierrez, Missman’s company commander, recounted Missman’s spirit and motivated attitude. “He loved the Army, loved being a Soldier and loved the Soldiers around him,” he said.
Pfc. Christopher Moors, a gunner assigned to Co. F, 2-12 Inf., spoke about Missman’s leadership capabilities and the impact he had on his unit. “He was a strong Soldier, a great leader and an awesome friend,” Moors said. “He will be deeply missed.”
Pfc. Thomas Perlman, also assigned to Co. F, 2-12 Inf., said that when Missman became squad leader he was a bit skeptical because Missman was a specialist, and new to the unit. “But he took charge and did it like he’d been doing it for years,” said Perlman.
Moors said that Missman was always smiling and ready to get things done. “He always was and always will be a part of our team,” said Moors.
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65 Years Ago this week - 4ID in Normandy, France - 25 - 31 July 1944
25 July 1944 - D+49
Today is a very key event in our division's history. July 25, 1944 was when the St. Lo breakout started. Our 4ID has three dates, one month apart, that are key successes for us in the Normandy campaign - June 25 was the liberation of Cherbourg, July 25 was the St. Lo breakout (to get out of the hedgerow country) and August 25 was when the 4ID entered Paris. By September 25 we were fighting in the Siegfried line on the German border, November 25 had us locked in the fiercest battle of our history in the Hurtgen Forest, and December 25 had us in the Battle of the Bulge. (October 25 was relatively quiet and uneventful for the 4ID).
The enemy was forced to withdraw from its well prepared emplacements north of the St-Lô - Périers road. The 8th Regiment and attached units attacked at 1100 and its 1st Battalion succeeded in advancing to La Chapelle-en-Juger. Then it outposted its area in preparation for continuation of the attack. The 12th Infantry remained in reserve and moved to vicinity of La Petite Grandière.
26 July 1944 - D+50
The enemy fought a poorly organized delaying action from hastily prepared positions constructed during the hours of darkness. The 8th Infantry attacked at 0800. A considerable amount of resistance was encountered generally consisting of small arms, automatic weapons and scattered artillery fires. Progress was slow until 1800 at which time the enemy resistance lessened.
27 July 1944
Enemy fought a disorganized delaying action which consisted of pockets of resistance supported by a few tanks and antitank guns. The 8th Infantry continued the attack to seize and hold the high ground on a line from Carantilly to Quibou along the Joigne river. Stiff resistance was encountered until early afternoon. The 12th Infantry attacked from Le Mesnil-Amey to clear the woods (1st Bn) and to take St Benoît (2nd Bn). The Artillery fired supporting mission for the advance of the 3rd Armored Division..
(Actions of the 22nd Infantry Regiment were not covered in 4ID reports since they were attached to 2nd Armored Division for this operation. I'll include the Presidential Unit Citation next week so you can read about the accomplishments of 22nd Infantry and 66th Armor as part of TF Rose).
28 July 1944 - D+52
The enemy withdrew in great haste and confusion which was apparent from the great quantity of materiel left behind. The enemy's action consisted mainly of trying to break through the gap formed by the US VII and VIII Corps. The 8th Infantry attacked at 0700 to clear the road of enemy resistance. The objective was reached at 1100. Orders were issued to move south to an area near Notre-Dame de Cenilly. The 12th Infantry attacked to finish the clearing of the woods and were ordered to move by specified route.
29 July 1944 - D+53
Combat Team 8 completed the move and at 0600, company I supported the attack of the 41st Infantry (2nd Armored Division) on Pont Brocard. The 1st and 2nd Bn took up defensive positions along the road Notre Dame de Cenilly to prevent the enemy from retreating from the northwest. Small enemy groups were encountered within the area, prisoners were captured and other enemy forces contained. CT 12 completed its movement and attacked at 0900 to secure the road between Le Bourg and Maupertuis. Objectives were reached at 1100 without opposition. The 2nd Bn cleaned out opposition in Le Bourg during the late afternoon. The 4th Cavalry Reconnaissance Sqn was attached to the 4th Division and conducted reconnaissance in the late afternoon to the south. Crossings over the Sienne river were made before dark.
30 July 1944 - D+54
The enemy continued to withdraw to the south by defending hastily constructed defensive positions. Enemy aircraft dropped numerous flares and antipersonnel mines. CT 8 protected the flanks of the Division. CT 12 attacked at 1100 to seize the high ground in the vicinity of Mancellière. The resistance, moderate at first, increased. CT 26 of 1st Infantry Division was attached to the 4th Division and attacked at 1100 to seize the high ground in the vicinity of Mesnil Bonant. At 2000, it reached its objective and initiated mopping up operations northward to the Sienne river.
31 July 1944 - D+55
Enemy offered almost no resistance. CT 8 was in assembly area southeast of Hambye at 0001. At 1200, it was ordered to move to an assembly area northwest of Percy to protect the left flank of the Division. CT 12 attacked to seize objective Villedieu-les-Poêles. Rapid progress was made by the 1st and 2nd Bn with comparatively little or no resistance. The 3rd Bn however met strong resistance in the vicinity southeast of Percy and failed to advance beyond this point during the day. The Division was still energetically pressing the attack toward the south against a disorganized enemy force.
Casualties for July 1944:
Killed or died of injuries: 42 Officers, 664 Enlisted Men
Missing: 5 Officers, 107 Enlisted Men
Seriously wounded or injured: 94 Officers, 1,733 Enlisted Men
Slightly wounded or injured: 38 Officers, 749 Enlisted Men
Total casualties: 3,432.
Cumulative Casualties for 55 days of combat since D-Day June 6, 1944:
Killed or died of injuries: 133 Officers, 1,699 Enlisted Men
Total casualties: 8,846 (this equals over 50% of 4ID strength on D-Day)
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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.
43 Years Ago This Week - July 21, 1966
The 2nd Brigade of 4ID departed Fort Lewis, WA, by ship, to begin the division's four and a half year deployment to Vietnam. At that time, 2nd Brigade consisted of 1-12 IN, 1-22 IN, 2-8 IN, and 4-42 FA - I was part of 1-22 IN and remember the event like it was yesterday - the start of the biggest adventure of my life.
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We owe 4th Infantry Division our thanks
Posted On: Sunday, Jul. 19 2009 05:41 AM
The colors have been cased for the last time. After almost 14 years of calling Fort Hood and Central Texas home, the 4th Infantry Division is gone — relocated to Fort Carson, Colo., as part of an Army realignment plan. Many of the division's units had already departed before Thursday's farewell ceremony on post, but now the transition is complete.
Since its activation here in 1995, the 4th ID, or "Ivy Division," as it's commonly known, has played a major role in Fort Hood's military mission. It has also played a major part in the growth and economic strength of the Central Texas community.
When the vaunted 2nd Armored Division permanently cased its colors in December 1995, the 4th Infantry Division moved its flag — and its headquarters — to Central Texas from Fort Carson to Fort Hood, keeping Fort Hood a two-division post.
In 1998, the post's status was secured when it was announced that the 4th ID would be the Army's first digitized division. In this new role, the division was at the forefront of testing and fielding digital weapons systems and communications — a mission crucial to the Army's modernization initiative.
The division also distinguished itself on the battlefield — both during the first Gulf War and during three deployments in Operation Iraqi Freedom. In fact, it was the 4th ID — under the command of then - Maj. Gen. Ray Odierno — that led the raid that resulted in the capture of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein in December 2003.
The 4th Infantry Division and its Soldiers have made a difference on the battlefield, but they have also contributed to the Iraqi people's well-being, working to build schools and medical facilities, taking on utility projects and providing security in a nation struggling to build a democracy after years of dictatorial rule.
Just as importantly, the Soldiers of the 4th Infantry have contributed to our own community, volunteering as coaches and mentors, adopting local schools, serving in our churches and helping our local civic organizations. Their spouses have taught in our schools, worked in our offices, helped with fundraisers and served on our PTAs and booster clubs.
They were our co-workers, our neighbors, our friends. We prayed with these Families as their Soldiers deployed. We rejoiced with them when their Soldiers returned home safely. And we grieved with those whose Soldiers were wounded or lost in combat.
The 4th Infantry Division leaves behind more than monuments and memories. Over the course of almost 14 years here, the division and its Soldiers have built a lasting legacy of service and sacrifice that will stand for years to come.
In recognition of all that the division, its Soldiers and its Families have done in service to our community and our nation, the Herald will publish a special "Farewell, 4th Infantry Division" magazine next Sunday, July 26.
In it, we will take a detailed look at the contributions, the accomplishments and the sacrifices of the division's Soldiers.
The publication will include a special Gold Star page, with a photo of every 4th Infantry Division Soldier who has made the ultimate sacrifice since the war in Iraq began in 2003. In addition, the magazine will feature farewell columns from local mayors and civic leaders.
It is our way of acknowledging the brave men and women who have represented our post, our community so well over the past 14 years.
Thank you, 4th Infantry Division. You've done us proud.
Copyright 2009 - Killeen Daily Herald
(Note from Bob - I don't know who wrote this so I can't give credit - but it is very well written. As a 4ID vet who has worked with the 4ID since they first went to Fort Hood on December 15, 1995, I will sorely miss our relationship with the many great people of Central Texas).
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And the next chapter of the 4ID history begins at Fort Carson. I was fortunate - I was both at the change of command and colors casing at Fort Hood and was also there at Fort Carson when the colors were uncased and the 4ID HQ officially returned to Fort Carson after a fourteen year absence.
4th ID officially returns to Fort Carson
July 22, 2009 - 3:18 PM
TOM ROEDER
THE GAZETTE
The 4th Infantry Division marked its long-awaited return to Fort Carson on Wednesday, bringing with it 6,500 Soldiers due on post by Labor Day and a new leadership team to run the post. The division moved from Fort Hood, Texas, where it had been stationed since 1995. Fort Carson has nearly doubled in population since 2003, growing from 14,000 Soldiers to 26,000 by the end of this year.
The ceremony was a time for celebration for the division’s top enlisted Soldier. “I feel like I’ve won the lottery,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Dailey, who has served at units at Fort Carson since 2001 and now has an office on the top floor of the new headquarters building opened Wednesday. Dailey will help Maj. Gen. David Perkins run the division and the post in an organizational shift that moved the lead role from Maj. Gen. Mark Graham.
A Pentagon report issued last week may make that change a mixed blessing for the new guys. A team of Army researchers found that a string of homicides attributed to Fort Carson Soldiers since 2005 revealed problems in drug treatment, leadership and mental health counseling that may have contributed to the violence. Dailey said Soldier and Family issues are the top priority for the new leadership team.
The arrival of the division follows a $1.2 billion building boom at the post. Graham said nearly three-quarters of the 6,500 troops expected this summer have arrived, with the rest coming in at a rate of more than 100 per day.
In addition to the new arrivals, Fort Carson is welcoming home 3,800 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 4th Infantry Division who have spent the past year in Iraq. The first contingent from that brigade is due home this week, with the rest filtering back through August. That will leave the post with just one deployed brigade and more Soldiers at home than have been here since the start of the Iraq war in 2003.
Perkins, the new commander of the post, said Colorado Springs is the perfect place to house all those troops: “Colorado Springs is legendary in the U.S. Army for giving support to Soldiers and their Families.”
Copyright 2009 - Colorado Springs Gazette
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New division brings new commander to Fort Carson
Story By: Bill Folsom
Source: KOAA
Published Wed Jul 22, 2009, 04:58 PM MDT
A flag uncasing ceremony marks the arrival of 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson. With the 4th ID there is a new Commanding General at the Mountain Post. “We could not be more happy to be here at Fort Carson,” says Major General David Perkins who takes over the lead at the post. Perkins most recent assignment was in Baghdad, Iraq.
The ceremonies were to welcome the 4th ID, still a lot was said to praise Major General Mark Graham who is leaving for another assignment. "We often say how beautiful it is here,” said Graham, “but I will tell you what, beauty is only skin deep. It's the people here that really make this place special.”
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Forces Kill Enemy Fighters, Detain Others in Afghanistan
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 20, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed enemy fighters, detained others and seized weapons in Afghanistan in the past four days, military officials reported. Afghan National Army and NATO International Security Assistance Force Soldiers killed 10 anti-Afghan fighters in Pech district of Afghanistan's Kunar province July 17 after receiving small-arms fire while on a routine patrol. Coalition close-air support from the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing at Bagram Airfield aided the force. No ISAF Soldiers were killed in the incident.
This was the second time in a week that ISAF and Afghan National Army forces eliminated a significant anti-Afghan threat in the district. An Afghan army-led operation July 15 resulted in the death of two Taliban subcommanders and the capture of four more anti-Afghan forces.
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Admiral Mullen awards 5 Purple Heart medals to Red Warriors
Story by Air Force Staff Sgt. Justin Weaver
1-12 IN Public Affairs
July 17, 2009
FORWARD OPERATING BASE RAMROD, Afghanistan – The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Michael Mullen, flew in to Forward Operating Base Ramrod on July 17 to award five Purple Heart medals to Soldiers, of 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment Red Warriors, injured in a roadside bomb attack July 3.
Sergeant Robbie Petry, Corporal Jason Kotzur, Specialist Stephen Dickard and Privates Avelardo Ocampo, Michael Slayton and Dane Lentz from Bravo Company, 1-12th Infantry were conducting route clearance operations on a road in the Maywand District when their Mine Resistant Ambush Protected truck struck an improvised explosive device.
The Soldiers credit the MRAP, a 16-ton vehicle with a V-shaped hull, for saving their lives. The design of the MRAP helped deflect the blast of the roadside bomb, protecting the Soldiers from more serious injury.
“Thank you all for your sacrifice,” said Mullen as he pinned the Purple Heart on the Soldiers. “I am grateful for your service during this time in history.”
The Purple Heart Medal is presented to service members in recognition of wounds received as the result of enemy actions.
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Red Warriors push to secure Kandahar province
Story by Air Force Staff Sgt. Justin Weaver
1-12 IN Public Affairs
July 16, 2009
FORWARD OPERATING BASE RAMROD, Afghanistan – The 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment's Red Warriors battled temperatures above 105 as they conducted two back-to-back missions in the Zhari District, located in the Western part of the Kandahar Province. Operation First Call and Operation Tora Arwa 4 were aimed at disrupting Anti-Afghan Forces and Taliban movement in areas where insurgents have had an unopposed safe haven to base their operations.
During Operation First Call, Soldiers met little resistance as they cleared several compounds and met with village elders west of Kandahar. Within several hours of the Operation First Call offensive, Soldiers had already detained several suspected Taliban and found a weapons cache, said Lt. Col. Reik Andersen, 1-12 Infantry commander of Plymouth, Minnesota. “One of the goals of these operations is to try and win over the local populace,” said Andersen. “The population is the key - when they turn their back on the insurgents is when the insurgency fails - this can only be done through meaningful engagement with the locals.”
In one village, Andersen met with the village elder and his children and discussed their concerns, needs and whether or not the Taliban had been operating in the area. “Many villagers have family or friends associated with the Taliban and are scared into being a sympathizer," said Mike Warren, the 1-12 Infantry Human Terrain Team leader from Alton, Il. "They don't want to help them but they feel they have no choice.”
During Operation Tora Arwa, Soldiers from the 1-12 Infantry were part of an air assault into the Zhari District to disrupt insurgent routes and Taliban strongholds. “We were very successful during this operation,” Andersen said. "We made the insurgents pay attention to us and our intentions for three days; these are three days that they had to react to us instead of planning and preparing their own destructive operations against the people of Afghanistan and coalition forces."
Despite the intense heat, Soldiers cleared multiple compounds while taking direct fire from insurgents during the three-day operation. "Next to my Soldiers safety, support of the local populace is the most important aspect of this current conflict," said Andersen. "The people have to be convinced that the Taliban and its influence is not good for their community. It is a difficult mission to balance the needs of an apprehensive and sometimes untrusting population with the destruction of the insurgency, but we are committed to making progress for the people of Afghanistan."
The Red Warriors of 1-12 Infantry are one of six battalions of the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (L), 4th Infantry Division, of Fort Carson, CO and have been placed under the control of Task Force Kandahar, responsible for Coalition Operations for the Kandahar region of southern Afghanistan.
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Soldiers Give the Gift of Speech
Story courtesy of the U.S. Army
July 19, 2009
KUNAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan -- Soldiers from Task Force Mountain Warrior’s, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, recently helped a local village elder named Jallal in the Kunar province, regain his voice. (Note from Bob: 1-32 IN is attached to 4BCT, 4ID for the remainder of this deployment and will be included in my updates).
While patrolling during a Key Leader Engagement February 9, the elder’s situation was brought to the Soldiers’ attention. Jallal’s voice box had been removed as part of a cancer-removal surgery in Pakistan.
After hearing of the man’s situation, 1st Lt. John Carlson, a medical platoon leader with Task Force Chosin, felt that something had to be done.
With the help of fellow 1-32nd Infantry Regiment Soldiers, Carlson decided to try to acquire an electro larynx, an artificial voice box which costs around $600. After Carlson’s first attempt to acquire the voice box failed, Maj. Jennifer Bell, the Brigade Surgeon for TF Spartan, felt she could help with the situation. She turned to a friend in Chicago, who was eager to help, and the artificial voice box was on its way to the C Co. Soldiers, arriving at Combat Outpost Monti April 26.
The Soldiers of C Co. taught themselves to properly use the device, so they could teach the elder.
When Jallal was handed the new device, the Soldiers all gathered around to watch the joyful expression on his face. Jallal’s family was in awe as the man spoke for the first time in years.
When Coalition Forces returned to the village, Jallal approached the Soldiers and greeted them with his new voice. According to Jallal, through the device he received, it’s the small things in life, such as gifts like these, which really make a difference.
Thanks to the dedication and cooperation of the C Co. Soldiers and caring people, Jallal proudly remains the voice of the Anar Kowt village.
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Lots of excellent work being done by our troops that will never be reported by the mainstream media. This is one of those stories - and part of my objective to pass on during the remainder of this deployment. These troops are attached to 4BCT, 4ID.
Agribusiness Development Team Teaches Afghan Agricultural Ministry
Story by Pfc. Elizabeth Raney
4th IBCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs
July 17, 2009
LAGHMAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Army National Guardsmen and Air National Guardsmen from the Kansas Agribusiness Development Team, of Task Force Mountain Warrior, conducted an agricultural development class at Forward Operating Base Mehtar Lam’s District Research and Demonstration Farm, July 12 through 16.
The five day class, coordinated with members of the United States Agency for International Development, taught students from Nangarhar University more effective farming techniques so that they may teach the current and next generations of Afghan farmers.
"These classes are designed to teach future agricultural leaders modern techniques of growing, irrigating, harvesting, and preserving their crops, as well as taking better care of their livestock,” said Lt. Col. Roger Beekman, the ADT Commander, from Olympia, Wash.
Beekman began the instruction with classes on food storage and preservation, and sanitation.
Fellow instructors taught additional farming techniques, such as irrigation, soils management, care of livestock, preventive veterinary medicine, and pest management.
A favorite among the Afghan students was the hands-on soil management class, given by Capt. Jeffrey Mann, a soil scientist from Manhattan, Kan. “The students loved to dig into and analyze the soil samples,” said Mann. “They were very curious about the chemicals used to separate the nutrients from the soil and asked many questions.”
Beekman said that he felt the classes would have long term positive effects on agriculture in Laghman.
"If these students take just some of these ideas and work with local farmers, who will then put them into practice, we’ll see a more productive and efficient farming society in Afghanistan,” said Beekman.
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FOB Ramrod launches smoking cessation program
Story by Air Force SrA. Erica Picariello
4th BCT (L), 4th ID Public Affairs Office
July 17, 2009
Forward Operating Base Ramrod, AFGHANISTAN – The Red Warriors of 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment at Forward Operating Base Ramrod launched a “smoking cessation” program on July 5, giving deployed Soldiers the tools they need to free themselves from nicotine addiction.
“The smoking cessation program here helps Soldiers kick their nicotine need,” said 1st Lt. Marshall Jackson, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment medical officer. “We provide personnel information on how to kick the habit, live a healthier life and give a nicotine patch to help reduce symptoms of physical withdrawal,” said Jackson.
The class is aimed at helping Red Warrior Soldiers live a healthier lifestyle during a stressful time in their lives. “In addition to a class on how to live a healthier lifestyle and the patch, we also can prescribe Wellbutrin to aid in reducing the psychological effects of nicotine withdrawal,” Jackson said.
According to the Food and Drug Administration, Wellbutrin, a drug also known as Zyban, is a medication that was found to significantly decrease nicotine withdrawal symptoms such as nicotine cravings, irritableness, insomnia, fatigue and headaches.
“Soldiers in a wartime environment have enough hazards to their health, without adding to it themselves,” said Jackson. “Smoking, as we all know, can lead to lung cancer, will decrease proper hydration, and take away from normal body functionality.”
While deployed, service members often travel many miles on foot, increasing the importance of proper hydration and personal endurance. “When Soldiers are nicotine deprived they display flu-like symptoms, become jittery, anxious, and temperamental,” said Jackson. “If we eliminate this addiction, then Soldiers can improve their health and constantly keep a clear head without needing a chemical to balance them out.”
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Battery C, 1-21 FA redeploys after 15 months
By Sgt. 1st Class Joe Thompson
41st Fires Bde. PAO
July 14, 2009
Soldiers from Battery C, 1st Battalion, 21st Field Artillery Regiment, 41st Fires Brigade headed to Kuwait from FOB Delta, finishing up their 15 month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom July 10.
“The guys did all right; I got to hand it to them,” said Sgt. 1st Class Steve Robitaille, Operations
Noncommissioned Officer in Charge, Btry. C. “Looking back it’s just a blur, just one long blur. The biggest thing we did was re-mission from a field artillery battery to our [police training team] and [military transition team] operations down in Basra and it worked out extremely well,” said Robitaille, from Lewiston, Maine.
From hugging the wife and kids, calling Mom and Dad or having that first drink, the Soldiers from Btry. C are ready to go home after 15 months and three different missions in Iraq. “The only thing I am going to miss from this place is all the good times and memories I had with the guys,” said Spc. Pete Kniskern, from Birmingham, Ala.
Battery C started its deployment in April 2008 at Camp Bucca conducting detainee operations. Then the unit went to Camp Buehring, Kuwait, retraining for a maneuver mission in Basrah. After almost eight months in Basrah, the unit ended up at FOB Delta, escorting the Wasit Provincial Reconstruction Team.
For Sgt. Alex Williams, this was his second tour in Iraq and he said that there has been a lot of improvement from his last time here. “Things are getting better outside the wire; there’s more security and things have calmed down a lot,” said Williams, from Colorado Springs, Colo. “I’d say a 180 from last time I was here; there’s less violence and you can tell the people are starting to do a lot more for themselves in both the economy and they are starting to govern themselves better. They’ve come a long way in the last three to four years,” added Williams.
The rest of the Soldiers in 41st Fires Brigade are continuing the redeployment process throughout the rest of July with the entire brigade scheduled to be back in Fort Hood, Texas, by early August.
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Solar lights continue to shine in northwest Baghdad, Abu Ghraib
By Sgt. Dustin Roberts
2nd HBCT PAO, 1st Inf. Div., MND-B
July 20, 2009
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers took a new concept in illuminating the streets of northwest Baghdad and Abu Ghraib and improved that concept with even newer technology.
Although solar-powered lights were present before the 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, MND-B arrived in Baghdad to support Iraqi Security Forces through partnership, the leadership felt there were not enough lights and individual lights did not produce enough illumination.
“We were not happy with the quality of solar lights when we arrived,” said Bristol, Conn. native, Maj. Andrew Attar, Joint Project Management officer, 2nd HBCT. “The lamps were low-pressure sodium and the light produced was dim yellow, yielding little visibility. Plus, the parts being imported were of low quality and malfunctioned frequently.”
After much research the brigade decided to make the switch to longer-lasting parts and a newer generation of lamps that produce more light. “We came across induction lamps; they are more efficient than low-pressure sodium and produce bright, white light with great visibility,” said Attar. “You can literally see several hundred meters down a road at night, with almost day light clarity.”
The brigade informed the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity of the new technology and Attar said the ministry was very excited about the new technology, which can survive the elements of nature for long periods of time while alleviating the stress of the national power grid. After recent sand storms the lights still worked when other lights did not.
Although they can weather the storms, Attar said it is important that the panels and light parts are cleaned regularly. “The solar panels have a guaranteed life of 20 years and the batteries have a lifecycle of five to eight years depending on how clean the panels are kept,” said Attar. “If the panels remain heavily covered with sand for long periods of time, this will shorten the lifespan of the batteries.”
Without the lights, the business hours on the streets are also shorter. “As we expanded the emplacement of the lights they became a safety measure along main roadways and markets, allowing businesses to stay open later,” said 1st Lt. Thomas Wilson, a native of LeClaire, Iowa, 5th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd HBCT. “They have invigorated the local economy and allowed people safer areas to socialize and be active during the cool nights.”
While the lights help stimulate the local economy, the original intent was to suppress insurgent activity. “The light project was initiated to provide security and safety throughout southern Ghazaliyah in an effort to make the area inhospitable to insurgent forces. Our intent was to light the main traffic routes and market areas in order to brighten the dark avenues of approach and provide areas where the community could spend time outside shopping or socializing during the hours past sundown,” said Wilson. “Our plan was to create a safe environment for the people to be out on the streets and in turn they would be more likely to reject the use of the roadways at night time hours by the insurgents.”
As the scheduled year-long deployment comes closer to an end for the Dagger Brigade, Attar said he was glad the Ministry of Electricity was able to work with the brigade to install the lights in order to benefit the people. “Solar street lights are important to our efforts here because when they're done right with the right technology, they make the streets safer at night,” Attar said. “These lights help bring about irreversible momentum of positive, peaceful change to Baghdad.”
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I'm sure you didn't see this in the mainstream media - but here's a great example of some of the work that the Iraqis are able to start because of the excellent work done over the past several years by America's military.
Basra hosts groundbreaking ceremony for new Sport City complex
By Staff Sgt. Rodney Foliente, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. PAO
July 21, 2009
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – The provincial government hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the Basra Sports City July 20. The megalithic project is slated to be completed 2013 in time for the city to host the 21st Gulf Cup, with a total of eight countries participating.
“I am proud that the stadium is being built and the Gulf Cup will be here. I can’t wait!” exclaimed a soccer player, 14-year-old Mohammad, through an interpreter.
The Basra Sports City complex will also be used by the youth of Iraq, as a training facility for future Olympians and world competitors of every scope, according to the display model, which showed training halls and fields for various sports, a main stadium with a capacity for 60,000 to 85,000 seats, an additional stadium, various courts and youth housing. The complex will also have a shopping mall, amusement park, playgrounds, museum and mosque.
One day, Mohammad said he aspires to play in the main stadium with the national team and win the World Cup and Olympics. His companions, who represented a wide range of different sports, responded with laughter and bravado as they jibed each other. But beneath the laughs, there seemed to be an excitement and hope as their dreams played out in their minds’ eyes.
A fellow athlete, Jaffer, piped in through an interpreter and boasted with 12-year-old seriousness, that he would be “a professional boxer; the world champion! I will be like Mohammed Ali.”
One of the children’s coaches said during the ceremony that the project represents a great future for Iraqi sports and that Sports City will benefit the city and country as a whole. “There is a significant challenge before us before we can enjoy the benefits of Sports City, but we will do our best to bring about its completion, on which we will celebrate that glorious day,” said Basra Gov. Sheltag Aboud al-Mayah, through an interpreter.
“This place will be added to the landmarks of Basra and we should be proud of this great symbol. The city of Basra is known as the Sea City, the Palm City, the Border Gates and the capital of Iraqi culture. We wish to see it also as the capital of Iraq’s economy and as our country’s sporting capital,” said the governor.
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And you will appreciate this update on how the transfer of authority is working in the Baghdad area:
Iraqi Authority Proceeding After Initial Frustrations, Commander Says
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 21, 2009 - Several weeks after American forces in Baghdad handed over security leadership to their Iraqi counterparts, friction is giving way to a smoother transition of power, a top U.S. commander in the Iraqi capital said. Maj. Gen. Daniel Bolger, commander of Multinational Division Baghdad, today described "hiccups and friction" that followed the American withdrawal from Iraqi cities in accordance with the June 30 deadline.
"Despite those initial frustrations, it seems to be going well," he told reporters at the Pentagon, adding: "I think each day that goes by we get a little bit better at working together."
A bilateral deal between Washington and Baghdad governing the status of U.S. forces in Iraq called for American troops to withdrawal from Iraqi cities and villages ahead of this month as Iraqi forces assumed authority in these areas. But the legislation also allows for Americans to provide assistance in some situations to Iraqi forces in cities.
While most U.S. facilities have moved outside cities -- drawing down from hundreds of large and small bases around Baghdad at the height of the troop surge in 2007 to a number in the low tens -- a residual American force of 1,500 - 3,000 remain in cities, Bolger said.
Some have described instances where the implementation of the so-called Status of Forces Agreement has led to confusion on the ground. "There have certainly been some scenes where an American or an Iraqi commander have to come out of their vehicles and walk up and figure out what's going on," Bolger said, adding that physical confrontations between American and Iraqi counterparts has not occurred. "What we've got is folks on the ground trying to make sense of it as they carry out their tasks," he added.
During a briefing at the Pentagon yesterday, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said he received an optimistic assessment from Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, the top American commander in Iraq.
"He said that the level of cooperation and collaboration with the Iraqi security forces is going much better than is being portrayed publicly and in the media," Gates said. He added, "It is perhaps a measure of our success in Iraq that politics have come to the country."
Appearing alongside Gates was Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who said he's encouraged by the progress American and Iraqi partners have made.
"There clearly are challenges, but I think the leadership is working its way through each one of those challenges," Mullen said. "So I'm encouraged."
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Gates Calls for Increase of 22,000 Soldiers
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 20, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates today announced plans to add up to 22,000 Soldiers to the U.S. Army's ranks. The plus-up of active duty troops will take the Army from 547,000 to 569,000 forces in what Gates characterized as a temporary increase of the Army's "end strength" for three fiscal years.
"This is an important and necessary step to ensure that we continue to properly support the needs of our commanders in the field while providing relief for our current force and their Families," the secretary told reporters during a Pentagon news conference.
Gates pointed to escalating violence in Afghanistan and an added U.S. presence there, political turmoil in Pakistan and elimination of the so-called "stop-loss" policy of involuntarily extending a Soldier's length of service as reasons behind the decision.
"The cumulative effect of these factors is that the Army faces a period where its ability to continue to deploy combat units at acceptable 'fill rates' is at risk," he said. "Based on current deployment estimates, this is a temporary challenge which will peak in the coming year and abate over the course of the next three years."
Some 130,000 American forces are in Iraq and 58,000 are in Afghanistan, where an influx of deploying troops will bring the number to 68,000 by the end of this year, defense officials said.
"These additional forces will be used to ensure that our deploying units are properly manned, and not to create new combat formations," the defense secretary said, adding that the decision was made after consulting with the Army's top military and civilian leadership and with the backing of President Barack Obama.
Gates, who has described the defense budget as "zero sum," said the cost of the Army increase would be absorbed in funding already allocated in the budget for the next two fiscal years. "We will take that money from someplace that isn't as high a priority as [adding] more Soldiers and taking some additional steps to relieve the stress on the force," he said. "This is a very high priority."
Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, appeared alongside Gates today, and also weighed in on the decision. "I've grown increasingly concerned over the last year and a half about stress on the force and our ability to meet the demands out there," he said. "This temporary increase helps us address that concern. It will also help us get a better handle on [time at home between deployments] and boost the number of people we can deploy with the capabilities our commanders most need."
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Saying goodbye
Posted On: Sunday, Jul. 19 2009 05:26 AM
By Olga Peña
Killeen Daily Herald
He cried. In his Army-tough camouflage uniform, his two stars visible to the hushed crowd. Maj. Gen. Jeff Hammond wiped away tears. He held his hand on his heart, then gestured to his wife, Diane, as if to say that's where she would always abide.
Hammond's words and visible emotion were part of his farewell speech to Central Texas at a colors casing and change of command ceremony Thursday, the last event before the 4th Infantry Division moves to Fort Carson by August.
Hammond, the 4th Infantry commander until he handed over the reins to Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins last week, choked up when he listed the many individuals in the community who have meant so much to him and his Soldiers. But the tearful moment that evoked a standing ovation from the crowd came when Hammond spoke about his devoted wife.
For me, just one of the many civilian members of the audience, that moment spoke volumes about community, family, loyalty, leadership and Army pride. This great man had no qualms and made no apologies for showing emotion as he spoke of how instrumental his wife, his family and his community were in helping him lead the troops.
And that, I believe, is what makes him a good Soldier. And he's not the only good one.
I feel that many times the world gets a warped view of our nation's heroes. Headlines and TV clips splatter news of Soldiers killing themselves and committing crimes. But where is Hammond's story?
Where are the articles reflecting the many good deeds Soldiers do on the battlefield and right here at home? Where are the news reels showing Iraqi children reaching out to hug the young sergeants who just gave them food or medical attention? Where are the stories of the Soldiers who rush from training to coach Little League twice a week? How do we measure the positive impact of Soldiers in our community and how do we thank them?
I may not have all the answers, but I can use this small platform to say a few truths that may seem obvious but are seldom communicated as they should be. These Soldiers and their Families don't have an easy life on the front lines of the battlefield or on the homefront. They've shed tears like Hammond, in times of war and peace, in Iraq and Texas, in tents and in their beds at home. These tough men and women cry because they are human and it's that human sentiment that drives them to push harder, fight stronger and defend the rights of other humans everywhere. They are heroes. They are champions. They are friends.
So while community functions have been going on all week to say farewell to the 4th Infantry Division, let us remember to not wait to share sweet words and acts of kindness with Soldiers when they depart. Let's show them how much this community loves them right now. Let's figuratively hold our hands on our hearts as if to say that's where they abide.
Olga Peña is the managing editor of the Killeen Daily Herald.
Copyright 2009 - Killeen Daily Herald
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What Our Families Are Hearing From Our Soldiers
1) Hello. What I am hearing from my son is the mood at Bostick is very gloomy due to the recent loss of SFC Jason J. Fabrizi. My son did not know him well but said many of the Soldiers there had worked with him for years, and they are feeling a tremendous loss. They are trying to stay positive. The boxes are being received in a timely manner, and are much appreciated. That is pretty much it for me.
2) Hi there, sorry, I didn't realize you needed any responses for the WHAT WE ARE HEARING FROM OUR SOLDIERS... My Soldier is with HHC/1-12 IN. He says things are very hot and extremely busy but things are going well. The guys miss their Families but are doing the best they can with what they have and will be home as soon as there jobs are complete!! They love getting care packages and or letters! And on a side note, he proposed to me on July 7th, we are getting married in July 2010. Hope this email finds you doing tremendously well. Thank you for all that you do for us!!
3) I am very sure one of the young men who were killed is a young man I have on my myspace and have communicated with him once or twice, I feel I know him, I am so sorry to hear of his passing I will remember him and his Family in my prayers.
4) I just want to thank you for your updates on 4ID and all of the other units in Afghanistan and Iraq. I look forward to your posts each week. My son is with 4ID and says that the situation in Afghanistan is so different than when he was in Iraq. He also said that "the Rockies and the Smokies ain't got nothin' on the mountains over here!" We usually hear from him once a week. We are thankful for that, because we know others are not that fortunate. Thank you for all that you continue to do and we pray constantly for all of our Soldiers.
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That wraps up this update, sorry it is late. This has been a whirlwind week for me - first a trip to Fort Carson for the uncasing of the 4ID colors and then on to St. Louis for the annual 4ID Association reunion. I'll get back on a regular schedule next week when I return home and end my hectic travel pace.
Continue to pray for our Soldiers and their Families. And for you football fans - the college football season starts about a month from now! Hooah - I can't wait - my favorite time of the year.
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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)
