Egypt Again on Fire

The Middle East may be at the point of finally showing her true colors. This is good in the sense I would prefer the truth than the lies that come from doublespeak.

'They' have been protesting for 4 days now, and the Egyptian military continues to mow them down. There remains only one question. Who are 'they'

Are they from the Muslum Brotherhood? Is this a reaction from the original protestors who were tired of religous intolerance, drastic punishments, murder for protesting, etc?

I ask this because I truly do not know who is in charge of Egypt. I am afraid they may lose many millions of dollars from visitors in the coming years. At least until we can figure out what is the religious make up of Egypt. If it is sharia law, you can say good-bye to prosperity; hello poverty.

Now for some humor relief. The New York Times seems to think noise is not that big of a deal. As a matter of fact, they think it's just swell! Ask The Cairo Calls! Please leave a comment, not a phone call. ;)

I pray for Egypt. I hope you will do the same. Merry Christmas. When you open your presents, please remember those Christians that are stuck in the Middle East through this transition and acknowledge them with prayer. Thank you.

Hat tip: Big Pharaoh.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

bin Landin Bites the Dust, Thx to USA

If you would like the facts about this (in a way they would only write about a democrat), please read MSNBC and/or Fox News. Why? Because all I want to do is celebrate. :)

I haven't been able write much lately, but I will try to post everyday once I have found a place to live. I'm not homeless yet. I have until the 8th of May, and I have a good prospect in hand. I just don't want anyone to think I've stopped writing or died. Nope. :)

I do miss you all. No matter how many friends I've made, not many know my brother died and went to Heaven in November 2010. I was shaken off rocker. I'm trying to come back, but I have over 10,000 unread email messages! Ugh.

Thank you all for your patience. You are the greatest!

PS. Just so you know...I won't really be celebrating his death. Why not? Because we are not supposed to (if you are a Christian). We are not supposed to hate our enemies. Gosh, Jesus is incredible, cuz I'm having a hard time not hating them (islamists, not Muslims). Have a great day.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Egypt on Fire

If you do not know anything about the chaos caused by Mubarack to mow down the citizens of Egypt, well...you may wish to find a more detailed explanation elsewhere. What I have to say about this situation is an unconfirmed, unknowledgeable piece of my mind.

I am torn. I want the Islamists exposed as to who and what they really are and what their intentions are, yet the Egytian people seem to want freedom. Freedom to do what?

If it is the Islamists, they want to create the caliphate. If the citizens of Egypt truly want freedom, then they're stepping into President George W. Bush' plan for democracy to spread throughout the Middle East.

To be honest, I'm not sure which group will win. I do know, however, that Mubarack is going to lose this fight this time. Finally. I'm tired of the double talk and the help we did not receive for the $1.5 Billion dollars that comes out of OUR pockets. They have the nerve to charge us $93 a barrel for gas?! That's insane!

With all that said, I have been watching each country in the Middle East, parts of Africa, some countries in South America, and then becoming a coordinator for our Tea Parties at home. Oh yes, Asia is another one in my sights. Wheh!

Ten years of almost everytime being correct, I do not consider myself an expert in any of these. Why not? I think your focus truly should be on one country so you can truly grasp their culture, government, etc. You must also be able to visit or live in the country of your choosing.

I've heard all the pundits yapping their gums, and I've had to walk away from the TV (FOX News). I can't stand the same story over and over again. Not when there's nothing NEW(s)!

I know this isn't much, but I really do feel bad that I haven't been writing sooner. Everything little thing reminds me of John, and I'm not doing very well. That's my problem, not yours. Thank you all for your precious, caring comments. They really do help.

Most people don't know what to say, and just being honest always brings a smile to my face. Even if it is through sweet tears. Can you imagine what it must be like to walk and talk with Jesus Christ, Noah, King David, Jonah, the Disciples, and all the people who've gone before us? WOW!

No, Muggy is not there! Hahaha. If you do not like what I just wrote, you do not have to read my blog! As you can tell, I am still upset. Oh, BTW, WHEN ARE THE AMERICAN MUSLIMS GOING TO STAND WITH AMERICA AGAINST THESE TERRORISTS??? Yeah right...

Have a good day, and I'll be watching the Steelers whoop Green Bay on the Super Bowl this Sundays. ;)

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

What's Next for the Sons of Iraq?

Below you will find the 'Institute for the Study of War's report on the conditions in Iraq as we withdraw our Troops down to 50,000. God be with them (as long as they're allies).

August 5, 2010.

With the U.S. troop drawdown deadline rapidly approaching, all eyes are focused on Iraq and what may transpire after U.S. combat forces withdraw to 50,000 troops on August 31st, 2010. A new ISW publication, Uncertain Future for the Sons of Iraq by Michal Harari, addresses the critical issues facing the Sons of Iraq (SoI), also know as part of the “Awakening”, on the eve of the US military’s mission change in Iraq:

"SoIs have been a primary target for al-Qaeda and other extremist groups in Iraq, making them feel increasingly threatened yet under-protected. A bitter and resentful Sunni population spells danger to future Iraqi stability."

Uncertain Future for the Sons of Iraq documents the rise of the SoIs and the current problems plaguing them: low levels of SoI integration into government agencies, lack of private sector infrastructure for job creation, and targeted attacks against SoIs by AQI and other extremists groups. It is a must-read given the August 31st troop withdraw deadline. To learn more about the development of Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), be sure to read the newly-released transcript of Lieutenant General Michael D. Barbero’s discussion on ISF, hosted by ISW.

In other news, ISW has been busy hitting the airwaves to discuss the troop drawdown in Iraq and the process of government formation. ISW Deputy Director and former Command Historian in Iraq, Marisa Cochrane Sullivan, sat down with Hearst Media’s Nicole Killion to talk about the new role of U.S. forces in Iraq. See it here. Marisa also guest blogged at the New York Times’ Room for Debate blog where her commentary on President Obama’s Iraq remarks appeared of the front page of the NYT website. ISW Communications Director Megan Ortagus also visited Fox News’ Strategy Room to talk about the troop withdraw and forging a new partnership between the U.S. and Iraq.

Of course, ISW’s Afghanistan Project is also hard at work this summer with the recent publication of Fact Sheet: The Kabul Conference. The 2010 Kabul Conference, co-chaired by the United Nations and Afghan Government, took place on July 20th, 2010. This conference is the ninth international conference on Afghanistan, but the first held within the country. It was the largest gathering of foreign leaders in Afghanistan since the 1970s. For more on combat forces in Afghanistan, be sure to check out our brand-new interactive map set Disposition of Forces: Afghanistan.

For up-to-the-minute updates, become a friend of ISW on Facebook or follow us on Twitter today!

Very respectfully,

Maggie Rackl
Communications, ISW

Photo: A group of SOI wait to be paid by Iraqi soldiers assigned to the 47th Iraqi Army Brigade, during an SOI payment mission with U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, in Multaqa, Iraq, Oct. 22, 2009. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Canaan Radcliffe/Released)

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again. Digg!

ISF capture suspected AQI leaders for Baghdad, Tarmiyah regions

Written by United States Forces - Iraq PAO
Saturday, March 13, 2010 09:03.

Press Release 20100313-03
March 13, 2010

BAGHDAD – During two joint security operations conducted today in central Iraq, Iraqi Police arrested three suspected terrorists, two of whom [are] believed to be al-Qaeda in Iraq leaders.

In the city of Tarmiyah, located approximately 41 km north of Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched two buildings for a suspected AQI leader who allegedly provides financial support, explosives and weapons to numerous terrorist cells operating in the region.

The building in which the wanted individual was found also contained a hidden room where the security team discovered several AK-47 assault rifles and cases of ammunition.

After conducting preliminary questioning and examining the evidence collected at the scene, ISF identified and arrested the wanted AQI leader and a suspected criminal associate.

During a second security operation in southwest Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for a suspected mid-level AQI leader who is believed to have helped plan past high-profile vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attacks in the capital.

Information and evidence gathered during the operation led ISF to identify and arrest the wanted AQI leader.

Both security operations were conducted in accordance with the Security Agreement and in coordination with the Iraqi government.

Source: OIF-Iraq.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Elections: Turning point for new democracy

Written by Spc. Shantelle Campbell, 1st Infantry Division
Thursday, March 11, 2010 11:28.

TIKRIT – Since assuming responsibility for Salah ad Din province in October, the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division has been advising and assisting the Iraqi Security Forces and the Government of Iraq in securing the population and helping to defeat violent extremists.

An Iraqi man near a Karbala polling site displays his marked finger – a sign of having voted – during the Iraqi national elections, March 7, 2010. Iraqi Security Forces took the lead on Election Day security, as U.S. forces observed from the background, ready if called upon. U.S. Army file photo by Spc. Samuel Soza.
Col. Henry A. Arnold, III, commander, 4th IBCT, 1st ID, discussed the elections from here with Kansas-based media via a video press conference, March 8.

During the press conference, Arnold noted that the success of the elections was due in large part to addressing the conditions that help to create the extremist networks in the first place.

"Since October, we have created environments where the people overwhelmingly support the Iraqi Security Forces and reject violence and the message that violent extremists have to offer," he said.

Seventy-three percent of the Iraqi population voted in the recent elections despite the impending threat of violence.

During the elections, there was very little U.S. involvement. According to Arnold, the only involvement of U.S. forces was during the movement of ballots.

"On the day of [the elections], the Iraqi Police were responsible for each polling site, and the Iraqi Army held an outer cordon that was about 50 to 100 yards out from the actual polling sites," he said. "U.S. forces were positioned at various places but not visible. We were a backup just in case they needed us."

Arnold regards the success of the elections as "the most decisive point" of the brigade's tour in Iraq and as one of the most significant events here since 2003.

He said he also believes the outcome of the elections signifies the beginning of the end of the presence of U.S. forces in Iraq.

"The greatest threat to the survival and destiny of this nation is no longer terrorists and guerillas; it is the failure of the political process," Arnold said. "If by [giving] this nation the ability and the opportunity to exist as a democracy that is secular and wants to be a responsible member of the international community, then yes, we've won. We set those conditions and allowed them to do it. It's up to them now."

PHOTO: An Iraqi man near a Karbala polling site displays his marked finger – a sign of having voted – during the Iraqi national elections, March 7, 2010. Iraqi Security Forces took the lead on Election Day security, as U.S. forces observed from the background, ready if called upon. U.S. Army file photo by Spc. Samuel Soza.

Source: United States Forces-Iraq.

US troops in Iraq adapting to new role

Written by John J. Kruzel, American Forces Press Service
Thursday, March 11, 2010 11:03.

WASHINGTON – Some of the 98,000 U.S. military forces in Iraq have already made the transition from security to stability operations ahead of the September deadline, American military commanders report.

In accordance with an agreement brokered between Baghdad and Washington, the drawdown to 50,000 U.S. troops before September will happen as the American mission shifts from its current role as a partner of Iraqi Security Forces to primarily one of training and advising.

But on the heels of what has been touted as a “historic” parliamentary election in Iraq this week -- months before the drawdown milestone -- U.S. forces in some instances have begun to change missions, said Army Maj. Gen. Terry A. Wolff, commander of U.S. Division - Center.

“We're pretty close to what that will look like already,” Wolff, whose area of operations includes Baghdad and the western Iraqi province of Anbar, told Pentagon reporters in a news conference yesterday.

What allows U.S. forces to pivot from accompanying Iraqi units in joint operations and providing aerial and intelligence support upon request to a role that centers on training, advising and assisting is the evolution of Iraq’s indigenous forces, the general said.

Since his previous rotation in Iraq in 2006 and 2007, Wolff said ISF have passed tests of their quality “with flying colors.” He cited security during the March 7 election in which attacks reportedly killed some 38 people across the country but failed to close any polling sites or dissuade any of the estimated 12 million Iraqis -- about 62 percent of the electorate -- who cast ballots.

“I worked helping to train the [ISF] on my last rotation,” Wolff recalled. “It was an army of about 110,000. Well, it's grown to about double that. It was a police of barely 150,000; it's nearly triple that. And so the Iraqi Security Forces demonstrated on Sunday that they're up to the task.

“I'm pretty confident that they can continue to secure the Government of Iraq and the Iraqi people,” he continued. “There's no doubt in my mind that they can do that exceptionally well. And as the next government settles in, they're more than up to the task, and they demonstrated that.”

Asked about the Iraqi Army’s progress since reports in 2006 of disloyalty, unreliability and a lack of professionalism in the ranks, one defense official said the Iraqi forces have “matured beyond our wildest expectations” – echoing the resilience Wolff described yesterday.

“I kind of liken them sometimes to a boxer,” he said. “They're very robust, they take a jab, once in while they take a body blow, but they rarely get knocked down any more.”

Army Gen. Ray Odierno, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, said the United States already has shifted from performing counterinsurgency operations to taking on the task of training, advising, enabling and partnering with Iraqi forces.

“I believe that's really what we're doing today. We are not doing any independent operations any more,” Odierno said at the Army and Navy Club here last month. “We are doing counterterrorism operations, but we're really not even doing those independently. All our highest-end counterterrorism operations are done in complete coordination with Iraqi Security Forces, and with Iraqi Security Forces.”

Asked if a reduced combat role of American troops was tantamount to a reduction in overall productivity in Iraq, Wolff sought to dispel such impressions.

“There are aggressive operations every day and every evening to deal with terrorists and extremists that try to have an impact on the Iraqi people,” he said. “So it's not as if we're all sitting on our operating bases and doing nothing.

“There's this belief at times that no one's doing anything; that 96,000 Soldiers are just kind of waiting for something to happen,” he continued. “We are not in the observe-and-write-about-it mode. We are effectively out there doing things every single day.”

Source: United States Forces-Iraq.

Maj. Gen. Wolff, USD-C, March 10

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 00:00.

DOD News Briefing from Baghdad with Maj. Gen. Terry Wolff, commander, 1st Armored Division and United States Division - Center, March 10, 2010

BRYAN WHITMAN (deputy assistant secretary of Defense for Public Affairs): General Wolff, this is Bryan Whitman at the Pentagon. Can you hear me okay?

GEN. WOLFF: Bryan, I hear you loud and clear. How are you today?

MR. WHITMAN: Very good. And thank you for joining us this morning.

It's my privilege to introduce to all of you here, in the press corps, Major General Terry Wolff, who is the commander of U.S. Division-Center. He assumed those duties in January of this year. And this is his first opportunity to be with us in this format.

And we appreciate you taking the time this evening to give us some perspective on what you've been doing: of course most recently the most important elections that have taken place there. So I know that you have a few words that you'd like to set the context with, before we start taking questions. So let me turn it right over to you.

GEN. WOLFF: Great, Bryan. Thanks a lot. I would like to make a very brief opening statement. So that will provide the context you just talked about. So first of all, thanks to the members of the press for being here today. And good evening from Baghdad.

As Bryan said, I'm Major General Terry Wolff. I'm the commanding general of United States Division-Center. As many of you know, Multinational Division-Baghdad and Multinational Division-West were brought together in two separate transfers of authority, which occurred in January. And that created the organization we presently know today as United States Division-Center.

Our team is built around the 1st Armored Division headquarters out of Wiesbaden, Germany, and also the 1st Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, which is an AAB out of Al Anbar province.

In Baghdad, we've got the 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, which is a Stryker unit out of Fort Lewis, the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, which is organized as an AAB, and the 2nd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, another infantry brigade.

Additionally we've got an aviation brigade out of Fort Hood, Texas, and the 16th Engineer Brigade. Just as a point of reference, 1st of the 3rd AAB arrived in Iraq simultaneously with 1st Armored Division. But the remainder of these forces that I've previously mentioned have been on the ground for a number of months, before we arrived.

As you all know, Sunday's election was an historic event. The Iraqis in Al Anbar province and Baghdad were protected superbly by the Iraqi security forces, and the Iraqi people came out and voted in large numbers. In Al Anbar there were no high-profile attacks, no attacks on polling centers and no loss of life. In Baghdad, the ISF succeeded in preventing vehicle-borne IEDs and also suicide-vest attacks.

While there were a few incidents which produced casualties, and a number of noise-bottle bombs, the Iraqi security forces secured the population and provided a secure, credible election process. And so before I close and take a question or two or three, I'd emphasize that Sunday's election-day success didn't just happen. The ISF owns security responsibilities in Iraq. The battlespace is theirs. They're in charge. They set the conditions for the elections through their hard work in the months leading up to the election day, and it paid handsome dividends on Sunday.

The ISF task didn't begin on or end on Sunday, as I just mentioned. And since then, they've continued to provide security on a daily basis for the last couple of days. We know that the ISF has an important role to play in the future, and we look forward to continuing to partner with them.

And so with that, I'll take your questions, please.

MR. WHITMAN: Okay. Thank you, General.

We'll get started right here. Go ahead.

Q General, it's Anne Flaherty, with Associated Press.

As we await the election results, do you see any outcome that could change the pace of U.S. withdrawal, or should change the pace of U.S. withdrawal?

GEN. WOLFF: You know, at this point -- at this point, no. You know, we've been told, based on the president's announcement last year at -- during his Lejeune speech, that we -- that USFI would come down to 50,000 folks. And so that's what we believe will occur, and that's the -- that's the planning process we move forward with, to move to that number.

In USD Center the number's going to be, obviously, smaller than it is today, but will come down a fair bit. And some of the planning for that has already begun as you well can imagine.

MR. WHITMAN: Joe?

Q General, this is Joe Tabet with Al Hurra. From now till September 1st, what kind of operation are the U.S. military involved in, and if you could give us what kind -- if you have any concerns during this transition period from now till September 1st?

GEN. WOLFF: Yeah, you've really given me an interesting question. What I would say is -- and I'd like to use the opportunity to talk to you a little bit about how the partnering has changed. I mean, the partnering has been reconfigured since the end of June when, based on the security agreement, we moved out of the Iraqi cities. And so how that applies in Baghdad and Al Anbar is a -- is a bit unique.

But what -- but what has effectively happened is that we've kind of changed the partnering model that we have worked with, with the Iraqi security forces, and that will continue up until 1 September and then beyond.

Where in the old days -- the old days being during the surge -- we used to have, you know, partnered units down at the battalion level and even lower, right now most of our partnering happens at the -- at the brigade level and above. And so we put a lot of interest and emphasis in partnering with the Iraqi security force, at -- with their brigades and with their division headquarters and with their operations centers which exist above the division level.

Additionally, we continue to provide some enabler support to the Iraqis. But as I said before, they're in charge. So kind of a case in point for the election period -- and even out now -- we help provide the Iraqis a number of things. We provide some aviation support. We help them with some intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms. We help with some military working dog teams. We assist with some Backscatter Vans which help them search vehicles coming into Baghdad and other cities.

And then we are -- we are partnered with them and do combined and associated training with them at just about every echelon.

It's taken a little different shape than what you might remember in 2008 and 2007 during the surge period. And so I expect that to continue out until September. And you may have heard General Odierno talk a little bit about this yesterday or the day before, where he believes that to some degree we're already in the process of transitioning to stability operations, we're pretty close to what that will look like already.

Q Could I follow up on that?

MR. WHITMAN: Sure.

Q General, this is Anne Flaherty again with AP. It sounds like there are a lot of troops, though, in Iraq to be doing the task that you just outlined. Are there examples or -- can you give us a sense of how many troops there are actually not -- don't have that much to do? It just seems like 96,000 troops are a lot to do the tasks that you outlined. Are they there for the psychological value of security or in case something happens?

GEN. WOLFF: I mean, no, I would say not really. I mean, the -- our -- the soldiers in USD-Center are pretty busy. And it's not make- work, either. And if you think about the election and you look at what occurred during the election period -- I mean, consider the fact that out now in Anbar province there are about 350 polling centers, and then in Baghdad there are about another 1,500. And so part of what we did was partner up with our Iraqi brothers and help them work their way through their plan which they had developed for the election support.

And so let me give you an example. At the Baghdad operations center, which owned all of -- all of the security for Baghdad and Baghdad province, we have a -- we have a transition team that works with the Iraqi staff in that headquarters on a daily basis. I spend a fair bit of my time over there with the BOC commander, seeing him and talking with him and dealing with the issues that he brings up as he puts his security plan in place.

My deputy commanding generals, or DCGs, spend time with their counterparts, usually other operation center commanders, where we have training team staff that assist their staffs. And then down at the Iraqi division level, whether they are Iraqi army or federal police -- and in Baghdad there are six of those -- we're also partnered with them with these training teams.

And so what we've done at that level is work to help the staff training to give them a menu of things which has enabled them to prepare themselves for the election. And we've also worked to have a common operating picture between our headquarters and theirs. So I effectively see the same thing that the BOC commander does. My intelligence teams provide me intelligence at the same time he's getting intelligence from the fused staffs we've put together. Now, that's just at the higher level. That happens out in Al Anbar, as well, with the Iraqi army divisions and the police in that province.

And so what we have done is we have kind of lifted and shifted. Where back in 2007 and 2008 we were partnered at a lower level out doing combat operations with them, in some cases unilaterally but in many cases partnered -- in partnered operations, now effectively Iraqis have the lead for combat operations. We are still partnered with them in some cases, but we are partnered at a staff level and at a higher level, commander level, much more effectively, I think, than we were before. And it has enabled us to work on command-and-control skills together.

So we'll see if that helped answer the first part of your question. You may have a follow-up, please.

Q No, I think that answers it. Thank you.

MR. WHITMAN: Al?

Q General, it's Al Pessin from Voice of America. So do you have any of your troops actually involved in combat at this point?

GEN. WOLFF: Sure. We work with the Iraqis to help them train a number of different elements. And so -- let me give you an example. Many of these Iraqi brigades have what we call commando elements or strike platoons.

They're little -- they're platoons or companies, commando companies, that help them execute offensive operations. This is in addition to many of the soldiers they have out on checkpoints and doing that sort of duty.

And so when -- let's say a federal police unit goes out and executes a mission of this nature to go get a bad guy. There will usually be a U.S. partner element that will move and operate with them.

And so the answer is yes, we partner in that regard. But the person who's knocking on the door of the house that they're going into is Iraqi. It is a warranted operation, based on rules of evidence under the Iraqi system that have been brought forward, with a Article 4 warrant that has been issued by an Iraqi court.

So it really has changed since the 30th of June, with the -- with that part of the security agreement going into place.

But yes, we are partnered and -- but it is -- we are not the guys going through the door first, nor are we apprehending Iraqi citizens. The Iraqi security forces are doing that. And so, as I said, it's a very different-looking partnership than what you might remember.

Q Has this been reflected in your casualty figures for the last couple of months?

GEN. WOLFF: Gee, I think that you do make an interesting point. I mean, the number of U.S. casualties has certainly gone down, and the number of Iraqi casualties has certainly gone down. And there are reasons for that. Part of it because we're seeing their tempo of operations increase significantly.

And it leads me back to my point that I made in my comments about the Iraqis just didn't stumble onto election security on Sunday. They have been executing a lot of missions, and they've been partnered a lot of different ways. They have been some of the searches that the Iraqis do to go into an area based on their intelligence tips that there might be some IEDs there, or there might be a cache there. Well, they will effectively put that operation together, they will issue the orders and instructions, and they'll go search those areas.

When we get to an operation where there might be a combined offensive operation to go get a bad guy, some of those Iraqis do by themselves, some of those we partner with them. And then there are other higher- order and counterterror operations that are also partnered. There are no more U.S. unilateral operations here, but we still do participate in some combat operations.

You know, many of our -- the casualties we have suffered, at least since we have been in Baghdad, really have been through vehicle accidents or suicide attempts. One happened just as we arrived on deck here. But that still doesn't mean it's not dangerous out there. Our soldiers go out there ready to protect themselves, and -- as do the Iraqis.

And so the growth that I've been talking about is really about a much more capable Iraqi security force that, even in our short time here, we've seen get better and a lot more focused.

Q So considering this picture that you painted for us, now that the election has passed, when do you anticipate beginning to draw down the forces in your AOR? And from what level now to approximately what level in August?

GEN. WOLFF: Sure. I won't talk about exact numbers, but what I can say is that -- you know, you've heard us talk about this as a responsible drawdown. Well, some of the responsible drawdown has already happened. I basically took the place of two division headquarters across two provinces. So responsible drawdown began with the arrival of the 1st Army Division assuming its role as the United States Division-Center. We've already had one of the brigade combat teams that were part of the United States Division-Center off-ramp and return to home station.

So in Baghdad province we're down to three brigade combat teams, as you -- as I commented. And now, Anbar, we're down to one; one -- now Anbar is end-stage. In Baghdad, we will eventually come down to one over time. And so the decision that will be made when to start that off-ramp is General Odierno's decision.

That will certainly be made based on some planning factors that his staff and ours are working through at this time.

Q Thank you.

MR. WHITMAN: Mike.

Q General, it's Mike Mount with CNN.

As you're well aware, the north still has some problems with violence and insurgents. Are you -- or have you moved any of your forces up to the north to assist there? And do you also anticipate possibly moving some troops from your AOR to the north if General Odierno needs to keep more troops in the country past the August deadline?

GEN. WOLFF: There was one organization of United States Division Center that was moved up north to reinforce USD -- United States Division North, and that happened just before we arrived. So there is some internal movement of organizations around, you know. I have no orders and instructions to prepare for that at this -- at this time.

And again, what I would say is that while, you know, I've talked a lot about the successes, you know, the successes don't come easily, and that there are aggressive operations every day and every evening to deal with -- to deal with terrorists and extremists that try to -- to try to have an impact on the Iraqi people. So it's not as if -- that we're sitting all on our operating bases and doing nothing. So I really emphasize that and try to dispel that notion, because there's this belief at times that no one's doing anything, that 96,000 soldiers are just kind of waiting for something to happen. We are not in the -- we are not in the observe-and-write-about-it mode. We are effectively out there doing things every single day.

And the battlespace that each of the U.S. battalions operate in in concert with their Iraqi counterparts looks uniquely different. And because it looks uniquely different, each of those commanders have a much different tempo, based on whether it is in a -- in a(n) urban area, or whether it's outside of Baghdad proper, out in a rural area.

MR. WHITMAN: Mik.

Q General, Jim Miklaszewski with NBC. There are reports coming out of Iraq this morning that a U.S. convoy accidentally opened fire on perhaps a group of civilians today and there were some civilian casualties. Do you have any information on that?

GEN. WOLFF: There were two incidents this morning that it sounds like perhaps they got mingled together. One was a -- one was a convoy that was hit by an IED, and you know, we're still trying to sort out the -- sort out the nature of that.

The second incident was a -- an incident out in downtown Baghdad in which there were -- there were shots fired. And we know that there were several Iraqis -- the report is several Iraqis were killed. We're trying to get to the bottom of that.

And a good example of how I do business with General Hasham, the Baghdad operations center commander: Once the report of that incident came in, he and I talked through my training team chief who's down there with him and put together a combined or joint inspection team, which is on site now, taking a look at what happened, and why we think it happened.

So what we do know at this point is that there was an incident. There were two people killed, and the details will follow once we get to -- get to the bottom of it, based on the combined investigation that's ongoing.

Q Any casualties in the U.S. convoy hit by an IED?

GEN. WOLFF: There were -- that was a -- that was a contractor convoy, and there were several people wounded. And they've been medevaced, and details will follow later.

Q And was the second incident involving the Iraqi citizens, was that a U.S. convoy also?

GEN. WOLFF: It wasn't a convoy. It was a -- it was a platoon that was moving into a site that both we and the Iraqis worked together in Baghdad.

And there was an incident which caused some weapon firing. And as a result, we know that a couple of people were killed. So again, that's about all the exact details we have now.

But it was a normal movement. And movements that normally happen in Baghdad are partnered movements. We usually move with our Iraqi security force brethren or they clear the movement. So another indicator of kind of the partnering that goes on here. We work all these movements in these operations centers and coordinate for movement in the city of Baghdad, which is, you know, what we have agreed to do as part of the security agreement, out of courtesy to our Iraqi -- Iraqi friends.

Q Can I clarify on that, General? Was the platoon moving into the site -- was that a platoon of Iraqi soldiers with some U.S. troops as advisers? Is that correct?

GEN. WOLFF: No, it wasn't. No, it wasn't. It was a platoon moving into a fixed site, and there was already an Iraqi element there. So it was a movement, it was a daylight movement, and it was on -- in downtown Baghdad on the west side of the city, in the Karkh area. And so just a routine movement.

Q Movement of U.S. troops?

GEN. WOLFF: Right. It was a platoon -- it was a platoon of U.S. troops that were moving, that's correct.

Q And General, what was this site? Was it like a FOB or was it a site where they were clearing, looking for a bad guy or doing something?

GEN. WOLFF: It wasn't a -- it was not a -- it was not a combat operation in the way you've descried it. It wasn't -- all they were doing is moving to a fixed site to link up with another American platoon.

MR. WHITMAN: All right. We have any others out there? (No response.)

Well, General, it looks like we've completed our questions here. So before I bring it to a close, though, let me throw it back to you in case you have any final thoughts that you'd like to share with us.

GEN. WOLFF: Well, I would give you a couple of perspectives.

See, you know, you touched on responsible drawdown today. And there's a lot of work that has been ongoing with that. And it didn't just -- doesn't just start or stop with the end of the election process. And so you know, there's a lot of movement that's happened. We're positioning now to turn over a number of American JSSes to the Iraqis. We will also turn over some other bases to them.

It's a fairly comprehensive plan that we've been -- we've been working for a number of months, that our predecessors worked as well, that we continue to refine. And that's based on discussions we have with the Iraqi security forces. So responsible drawdown has been going on for a while around here. And it will continue to September and then beyond.

Secondly I would state that the environment out here is incredibly complex. And while casualty levels seem down, and we acknowledge that the Iraqi security forces did a bang-up job securing their population for the elections, I'd also tell you that we're asking an awful lot of these young American leaders and young American soldiers.

These young officers, these noncommissioned officers and soldiers, are just doing a great job. And what we have learned over the years serving here and in Afghanistan is just how complex the human terrain is here.

And so we have gotten much better at learning that -- at learning how to deal with tribal sheikhs, with provincial leaders, with district leaders out in these cities and towns -- how to partner better with our Iraqi security forces and all the while doing, you know, combat operations or partnered operations now.

This Army and our military has grown significantly. And I just have enormous respect for these great folks out there doing this heavy lifting. And all the while keep in mind that the enemy threat continues to evolve and change. Whether it's an al Qaeda threat or other extremists, they like we are learning organizations. They continue to adapt as well.

Additionally we're doing a fair bit out here working with the State Department and these provincial reconstruction teams doing civil capacity operations.

And so we kind of consider that a supporting line of effort of ours. Security and helping the ISF deal with the security is mission number one, but we also have a strong and vibrant effort working with our State Department and other interagency brethren who partner with us on -- every single day.

So it's not unusual to have a session, either out on the ground or back in headquarters planning, where we have Provincial Reconstruction Team members, State Department folks working side by side with USAID with a small American element, be it a platoon or a small company, that's out there doing business with Iraq tribal sheikhs, provincial leadership and Iraqi security forces all together. That's much different than what we experienced in 2003 or even 2004, and we've gotten a lot better at doing that. And that's what you're seeing play out both in Iraq and in Afghanistan.

So I tell you that I'm incredibly proud of these Americans and other forces that partner with us as we do this job on a daily basis out here.

I'd also mention that the Iraqi security forces, again, have grown significantly. Some of you know I worked -- I worked helping train the ISF on my last rotation, in 2006 and '7. It was a -- it was an army of about 110,000. Well, it's grown to about double that. It was a police of barely 150,000; it's nearly triple that. And so the Iraqi security forces demonstrated on Sunday that they're up to the task.

If it were -- if it were a test, they'd pass with flying colors. And I'm pretty confident that they can continue to secure the government of Iraq and the Iraqi people. There's no doubt in my mind that they can do that exceptionally well.

And so as we move beyond the election period and all the back- and-forth that will go on with election results and, you know, challenges and things of that sort, I'm confident that the ISF can provide the backbone necessary to form the next government. And as the next government settles in, they're more than up to the task, and they demonstrated that.

And they have a very robust command and control. And I kind of liken them sometimes to a boxer, that they're very robust, they take a jab, once in while they take a body blow, but they rarely get knocked down anymore.

And so that's the major change that I've seen out here, and it's pretty encouraging to see. And it's really a pleasure seeing how far they've come and grown over the years here. And I'm just -- I'm just confident they're ready to take these next steps.

And as I said, they're in charge now. We're in kind of a supporting role, and we're proud to be there. And you can only imagine how proud they were after the elections. On Sunday evening, as the polls closed, every Iraqi leader that I ran into had -- you know, had a big broad grin on his face and was absolutely beaming with pride, with his ability to have led his organization to do what the nation -- his nation demanded of him. And they did it pretty doggone well. And they responded to the challenges they saw on Sunday and worked their way through it. And the Iraqi people knew they would, so that's why you saw voters flocking back out in the afternoon to get to the polling sites. And they're pretty encouraged by what they saw.

So with that, I'll just close by thanking our great -- our great soldiers and our airmen and our sailors and Marines that are part of our great organization. And they're joined by State Department folks. They're joined by other agency friends that make this a real team of teams out here. And they operate across a pretty complex battlespace that's constantly changing, as we've talked about, with this responsible drawdown business.

And so thanks to you for asking lots of questions today. I know that there are a lot of other things competing with Iraq now and everyone basically thinks Iraq is solid, based on the elections. We believe that as well. But again, thanks for your time. And I'll stand by for any final questions.

MR. WHITMAN: General, we're good from here. But thank you. Thank you again for your time. And we hope that perhaps in the not too distant future we'll get another update from you.

GEN. WOLFF: Yeah, I sure look forward to that. Thanks a lot, Bryan.

Transcript of Maj. Gen. Wolff, USD-C, March 10 (77.26 kB) (pdf).

Source: United States Forces-Iraq.

Iraqi Air Force protected voters from above

Written by Senior Airman Mindy Bloem, 506th Air Expeditionary Group
Tuesday, March 09, 2010 11:12.

KIRKUK - As Iraqis took to the polls this week to vote for their preferred candidate, another historical event took place in the skies above as the Iraqi Air Force commanded an all-Iraqi intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) mission in support of the elections.

In previous years, the United States has provided security, aerial surveillance and reconnaissance for the elections, but Col. Rodney Liberato, 321st Air Expeditionary Advisory Group/Detachment-3 says this marks a historic event because the Iraqi forces, with all of their assets, provided their own ISR coverage for the Iraqi national elections; something they've been working toward the past four years.

Since Kirkuk's IqAF Squadron-3 was tasked with supporting ISR operations over major Iraqi cities during the elections, its members had to be vigilant in protecting the Iraqi people.

To be able to do their job properly, the squadron used technology to assist them in preventing attacks by terrorists.

The crews consist of a pilot, co-pilot and mission system operator. They have three RC-208 aircraft and three AC-208 aircraft, each equipped with an MX-15 electro-optical infrared camera system.

There are Iraqi operation centers throughout the country with the capability to download full motion videos, captured from the aircraft's camera equipment. It essentially gives the security forces on the ground an eye in the sky, said Liberato.

The effort is also notable because it was not just one unit or team working to complete a mission, but involved Iraqi forces across the country teaming up to provide their people with the necessary protection they needed for a peaceful election.

"It's a great opportunity for them to work with the [Iraqi] Army and Police on their own, which, as the United States begins to withdraw, they will need to do in order to accomplish the mission together," Liberato said. "These surge operations will be a great proof of that concept."

Staff Col. Albayati, IqAF Squadron-3 commander, believes this was an important step toward Iraqi independence.

"The role of the Iraqi Air Force is to provide the Iraqi security ground forces the information needed for them to do their duties better," he said. "This means our planes … overhead the cities, looking for every single movement. Everything we do is to keep our people safe."

U.S. forces have been helping Iraqi forces achieve self-sufficiency since 2005, and for those personally involved in the nation building process, it has been a rewarding experience.

"I've been here seven months, and I know some of the lieutenants in Squadron-3, flying and performing ISR missions on their own who used to be in the pilot training squadron," Liberato said. "It gives you a bit of personal satisfaction to know you had something to do with their pilot skills and getting them where they need to be. And they're ready; they're ready to execute [missions] on their own."

Albayati believes it's time for the Iraqi forces to protect their people.

"I cannot tell you how proud I am of what we are doing in this squadron," he said. "I cannot tell you the limits of my happiness when I saw my guys working this morning with big smiles. They want to do something for their people. I am proud of each of them.

"I hope for peace for these great people of Iraq, and I want them to know that we are Soldiers and our first job is to serve them," he concluded.

PHOTO: Iraqi Air Force Squadron-3 launched all six of its aircraft from Kirkuk Regional Air Base in support of the Iraqi national elections, March 7, 2010. This operation marked the first time the IqAF led an all-Iraqi effort in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance flights in support of their people. Photo by Staff Sgt. Tabitha Kuykendall, 506th Air Expeditionary Group.

Source: United States Forces-Iraq.

Security paved way to successful Iraqi elections; US, Iraqi leaders pleased

Written by United States Forces - Iraq PAO
Sunday, March 07, 2010 21:05.

BAGHDAD - As Iraqi forces celebrate what their leaders are calling a resounding victory for a safe and free Iraq, U.S. Division-Center leaders are praising their Soldiers for their strategic role in assisting them. Despite an early morning attempt by terrorists to disrupt the elections, the Iraqi people resolved themselves to get out and vote.

American leaders watched as well trained and determined Iraqi Security Forces stopped terrorists at every turn from scaring voters away from polling sites - a force that they had been involved in training and assisting; a force they were still involved with assisting.

"The security was tight," said Guy DiDomenico, a U.N. field security specialist, while touring a polling site in Mansour. He explained that around 8:30 a.m., polling was slow. However, many more voters arrived between 10 a.m. and noon.

Compared to the 2009 elections, where he was also present, DiDomenico said security improved greatly this year and that the polling locations appeared much more organized, with more people working at them.

Watching from more than 300 meters away as their ISF counterparts handled the security at the polling sites, U.S. Soldiers said they were impressed by the process. "The ISF did a good job," said Cpl. Andrew Canvasser, a military policeman with MP Platoon, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th SBCT, 2nd Inf. Div. "The ISF used a show of force to keep order," he said, explaining that both Iraqi Army and the police were present at the polling sites. "[They] did a good job minimizing [the] threat as much as they could."

Meanwhile, back on Forward Operation Base Constitution, location of the 6th Iraqi Army Division Joint Operations Center, 4th Brigade Soldiers and leaders carefully monitored the security situation alongside Iraqi partners. Together, the two military forces shared intelligence about the situation on the ground, coordinated the use of U.S. intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance equipment, and received updates from the field.

"The JOC was instrumental in ensuring that Iraqi and U.S. forces were synchronized, updated on each others' activities, and allowed us to quickly and effectively maneuver ISR assets at the request of our partners," said Col. John Norris, the brigade commander. "The JOC has proven to be a valuable tool and an asset that will continue to be used by our ISF partners long after we have gone."

Even though the threat of violence against voters by insurgents was high and the sound of explosions could be heard in the distance throughout the morning, the ISF remained committed to providing a safe and secure environment for voters.

"As anticipated, [al Qaeda in Iraq] attempted to disrupt the elections, but the determination of the Iraqi people and the ISF has prevailed, and Iraq is moving forward," said Norris.

DiDomenico agreed. "I give a lot of credit to the Iraqi people for going out and voting even though there's real danger out there," he said. "It's a sight to see people voting."

As they watched the ISF operate at ground level, Capt. Justin Kennedy, from Belton, Texas, battle captain and an AH-64D Apache attack helicopter pilot with 4th Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, watched from the air.

"When we were out there, there wasn't a single time today, when we looked at an Iraqi check point, that the Iraqi Security Forces weren't doing their job," Kennedy said. "It was an ultimate full-circle experience. Getting to be here during the surge - during the most violent period in Iraq - and then to fly out here today and look down from my aircraft and see everybody voting with no violence going on ... it was like a 180-degree [turn-around]."

As he continued to observe the situation, voting continued in central Baghdad as Soldiers with 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division provided support to the Iraqi Security Forces in eastern Baghdad.

The U.S. support included intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets, early warning capabilities, combined command and control nodes, and quick reaction forces that remained positioned to respond if requested by the ISF.

"The purpose of our security operations was to ensure that the voters have freedom of maneuver to go to the polls," said Maj. Dennis Ifurung, executive officer with 1st Battalion, 89th Cavalry Regiment. "We ensured that there were no illegal checkpoints, no possible [car bombs] or gatherings that would hinder voter turnout or enable intimidation and persuasion."

To the west of their position, Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Support Battalion waited for a call from the ISF, prepared to deliver consequence management packages and assist the ISF with palletized barriers.

Their leaders said the fact that they were not called was a testament to how successful the ISF was in securing the city.

"Today, we've been prepared in case we need to respond to any assistance the Iraqi Army needs us to provide; whether it be security or consequence management packages to help secure an election site," said 1st Lt. Micheal McCrory, Company A, and a native of Cumming, Ga. "If the Iraqi Army needs us, we're going to be there but if we don't get called up, it means that we've done our job training the Iraqi army these last few years to be ready."

Other Soldiers on standby said they were eager to assist the Iraqis in more over watch missions in the future but said they were glad to remain in the wings today if they were not needed. "I think it's excellent that we are not in the front, and that we are assisting, because it shows that we have done our job in training the ISF," said Spc. Brandon Cleary, A Co. BSB and a native of Tuscaloosa, Al. "We've been over here for a decent amount of time and I think it's finally showing. A mission like this is historical. For the first time the Iraqi people are able to vote on their own free will."

As they waited to be called in for support, Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, provided 45th Brigade, 11th Iraqi Army, multiple ISR video feeds for the election at a joint command and control center. The unit also provided six quick reaction teams strategically placed throughout the area by the Iraqi Army.

As the polls closed in the northern area of Baghdad, officials attributed the ISF for higher than anticipated voter turnout as the local population filled polling stations. "Overall, supporting the national elections has solidified for us the IA's ability to conduct security operations and track units on the ground," said 1st Lt. Drew Kitchen, an Iraqi Army operations coordinator.

If Iraqis filled the polling stations in northern Baghdad, they swelled them in Iraq's Al Anbar province, where advise-and-assist paratroopers with 1st Brigade, 82nd Airborne escorted three election-site monitoring teams with United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq to polling sites in Ramadi, the Ramadi-Fallujah corridor and the Hit/Haditha area.

According to the Anbar Operations Command, the ISF had discovered 20 improvised explosive devices and removed them
in a 30-hour span prior to Election Day. Eight more detonated on Election Day with only one minor injury.

U.S. Forces standing by for assistance were never called upon by Iraqi Security Forces. However, Capt. Richard Jones, commander of Company B, 2nd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, said his company provided security and transportation for the Ramadi and Fallujah area UNAMI teams.

His men did exactly what was needed. "They deserve praise," he said. "They worked hard today. They have been working hard this whole deployment, and we're proud of them."

PHOTO: Iraqi Army Soldiers direct civilians to the voting site in Mansour, Iraq, March 7, 2010, during Iraq's national elections. Iraqi Forces were in charge of election security, searching each person before allowing passage to a polling site. U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Kimberly Hackbarth.

Source: OIF-Iraq.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Odierno: Iraq can help stabilize Middle East

by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (Feb. 23, 2010) – Iraq presents a solid opportunity to help in stabilizing the Middle East, the commander of forces in that country said here Monday.

"We have an opportunity that we might never have again," Army Gen. Ray Odierno said during a Pentagon news conference. "We have the opportunity – potentially – to have a moderate democratic government in the Middle East."

The general said he's worried that once United States service members leave Iraq at the end of 2011, Americans will forget about Iraq. The U.S. must remain engaged with the Iraqi government as an equal, the general said.

"That's going to take commitment beyond military commitment," Odierno said, adding that the U.S. government needs to engage with Iraq economically, diplomatically and governmentally and continue a certain amount of security cooperation.

The Iraqi national election slated for March 7 is a watershed for the country, Odierno said. Iraqi Security Forces are in the lead in providing election security, and American forces are standing by to provide support if called upon, he noted.

The general acknowledged some worries. A large Sunni political party has threatened to boycott the election. Al-Qaeda in Iraq may launch attacks, and political violence leading up to the elections is possible. But, so far it is going well, the general said, knocking on the wood of the lectern. "But we still have two more weeks," he added.

A total of 6,242 candidates are seeking 325 seats up for election. "We still have a broad-based group there running for elections inside of Iraq," Odierno said.

About 96,000 American service members are in Iraq now, Odierno said, a number that will decrease to 50,000 by September. The general said he can speed up or slow down that withdrawal as conditions on the ground dictate.

"I have contingency plans, and I've ... briefed the chain of command this week that we could execute [the plans] if we run into problems, if it goes the way we think, or if it just is a little bit different than the way we think," he said. "And we're prepared to execute those."

Odierno said he is concerned about Iran and Iranian influence in Iraq. "What we're trying to do is to make sure the Iraqis get to choose who leads Iraq, and that we don't have such external interference that the Iraqis don't get the chance to choose who their leadership is and who they want to bring them into the future," he said.

Iran continues to support surrogates inside Iraq who continue to attack U.S. and Iraqi Security Forces. "And they continue to have significant diplomatic activity inside of Iraq on many different levels," the general said.

American service members in Iraq have good attitudes about their missions, Odierno told reporters.

"What's really heartening – especially from the noncommissioned officers and the officers, who most are on their second, third, fourth, fifth rotation – is they are seeing the progress," he said.

The general noted he visits battalions and brigades throughout Iraq, and added that he asks the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines what they think and what they are seeing.

"And to a man, they all say that it's really incredible to them how far they've come from just two years ago, and what they're seeing on the ground, the fact they're seeing growth in these Iraqi towns; the fact they're seeing some development, the advancements they've seen in the Iraqi Security Forces and their ability to do operations," he said.

The troops are heartened by their observations, and they see the elections as another important milestone, the general said.

"I think morale is pretty good in Iraq," he added. "They feel good about it."

PHOTO: Gen. Ray Odierno, commander of U.S. Forces-Iraq, holds a news briefing at the Pentagon Feb. 22 to inform reporters of the current overall situation in Iraq two weeks before general elections.

Source: CENTCOM.

Legacy of Partnership

Written by United States Forces - Iraq
Friday, February 19, 2010 13:59.

Today's U.S. military officers, NCOs and Soldiers fulfill front-line, nonstandard roles by negotiating with tribal leaders, training Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) and assisting Provincial Reconstruction Teams as they build essential services for the Iraqi people. These Soldiers may be the only contact with Americans Iraqis will ever have. Therefore, each U.S. Soldier has a role in America's enduring partnership in Iraq. This USF-I video explains our change in mission in Iraq now that Iraqis are in the lead.

In case the video does not work properly, here is the YouTube link.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Odierno: Iran continues to subvert Iraq

by John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (Feb. 17, 2010) – As national elections in Iraq loom on the horizon, Iran continues to subvert its western neighbor’s security and political infrastructure, top American military officials said.

Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, the top American commander in Iraq, said Iran aims to foment violence in Iraq and to play diplomatic and other nonmilitary roles that call into question Iran’s respect for Iraqi sovereignty.

“Iran clearly has a strategy that goes across lethal aims, diplomatic aims and then soft-power aims -- i.e., influencing people through investment in the economy -- and into some other practices inside of Iraq,” the general said yesterday at the Army and Navy Club here.

Despite success in recent years against Iranian-backed militias operating in Iraq, several new groups have formed that are receiving support from within Iran, Odierno told audience members at the event sponsored by the Institute for the Study of War.

Though down from peak levels, Iranian-backed violence is being generated in part by two groups -- Kataib Hezbollah and the Promised Day Brigade -- that gain funding and military expertise inside Iran before exporting their operations across its western border, the general said.

“We still have EFPs explode just about every day in Iraq,” said Odierno, referring to what the military calls “explosively formed penetrators,” an especially deadly type of roadside bomb that’s designed to pierce armor and is believed to have Iranian origins. “We still uncover Iranian rockets and other goods that are made, and individuals that are trained, in Iran to conduct attacks against both U.S. and Iraqi security forces.”

Asked whether Iran respects Iraqi sovereignty, Odierno replied, “I would say, since they conduct and support lethal actions inside of Iraq, it's clear that they don't.”

As the March 7 Iraqi national election date nears, concerns have mounted that Iran, a Shiite Muslim country, has influenced a decision by Iraqi lawmakers to bar several hundred politicians from the ballots on the grounds that they are linked to Saddam Hussein’s Baath party. The decision primarily disqualified Sunni politicians seeking office.

Two Iraqis involved in blocking the candidates have ties to the Iranian government in Tehran and are attempting to influence the outcome of the Iraqi election, Odierno said. The two men had several meetings in Iran, he said, including one with an Iranian whom the United States placed on the terrorist watch list for a bombing in Kuwait in the 1980s.

One is Ahmed Chalabi, who reportedly is perceived as having supplied faulty intelligence in 2003 before the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. The other is Ali Faisal al-Lami, who was arrested and subsequently freed after being suspected of masterminding a bomb attack on American and Iraqi officials.

“[Lami] and Chalabi clearly are influenced by Iran. We have direct intelligence that tells us that,” Odierno said. “We believe they're absolutely involved in influencing the outcome of the election, and it's concerning that they've been able to do that over time.”

The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in recent days expressed concern about the increased levels of violence in Iraq as the election date nears, and he also has denounced Iran’s reach into areas throughout the Middle East, including Iraq.

Speaking to reporters in Cairo after Iran recently announced it would increase its levels of uranium enrichment, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen -- the top U.S. military officer -- characterized Tehran as “hard to predict.”

“I remain extremely concerned about them as a country -- not their people, but their leadership,” Mullen said in Feb. 15 remarks, “and the recent rhetoric concerning the increased enhancement in terms of nuclear fuel, their reach to Hezbollah, their reach to Hamas, their reach into Yemen, their reach into even Afghanistan, as well as Iraq.”

Source: CENTCOM.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again. Digg!

U.S. transfers three bases to Iraqi government in Ninawa

US Forces - Iraq

NINAWA PROVINCE, Iraq (Feb. 11, 2010) – United States Forces transferred three bases to the Government of Iraq in Ninawa province Feb. 9, signaling a ready, secure and stable Iraq.

In three separate ceremonies, Joint Security Sites Iraqi Turkey Pipeline 2, Badoush and Scorpion were officially transferred to the Government of Iraq.

The closures began at JSS Scorpion, where members of the Iraqi forces gathered alongside Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, and watched asa the bases were transferred with just a few quick signatures.

The Soldiers in attendance, Iraqi and American, have a history together, according to Capt. Aaron Vevasis, company commander for Company C, 1/64 AR.

“We worked directly with their battalion headquarters and conducted patrols together,” Capt. Vevasis said. “The base transfer was made possible because of the Iraqi Army’s success.”

“We’re one step closer to the Iraqis being able to establish their own security and maintain their own country by themselves,” said Sgt. 1st Class Robert Dozier, an infantryman and platoon sergeant for 1st Platoon, Company B, 1/64 AR.

Sergeant 1st Class Dozier’s platoon was stationed at JSS Scorpion for the last three months, and worked and trained closely with the Iraqis.

Shortly after the transfer of authority for Scorpion was complete, the transfer of Badoush took place. Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Williams, commander of 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery, 2nd BCT, 3rd Inf. Div., sat with Iraqi Army Brig. Gen. Daham Ibrahim Qader, the Badoush prison warden with the Ministry of Justice, and Sameer Alhaddad, who handles all official base transfers.

“I am greatly honored to receive this facility from the American forces today,” said Iraqi Army Brig. Gen. Daham.

“On behalf of all the Americans that have served here in Badoush — over the past several months and years — I want to thank you for the partnership and allowing our Soldiers to train and work alongside the police here at the prison as well as the people in the city here at Badoush,” said Lt. Col. Williams.

“This is just another positive step forward in the relationship for the country of Iraq,” the commander went on to say. The three representatives then signed the papers officially finalizing the transfer of Badoush to the Government of Iraq.

A short helicopter ride later, the Iraqi and U.S. Forces representatives arrived at ITP2, to transfer the last of the three bases.

“I am thrilled, and I think it’s a great day,” said Capt. Thomas Carroll, the company commander for Company B, 1/64 AR. “It shows that Americans are true to their word. It’s a good day for the Iraqis and Americans together.”

Captain Carroll’s unit, which has worked at ITP2 for a more than three months, conducted counter-improvised explosive device patrols with Iraqi forces during their stay. The unit is being replaced by a reconnaissance platoon from the 352nd Iraqi Army Battalion.

“We will continue to be close,” said Capt. Carroll. “The Iraqi people are in good hands with this unit.”

Continuing the relationship between the Iraqis and the U.S. Forces was also re-iterated by a member of the Iraqi Prime Minister’s staff.

“I can see the relationship between the two armies, and it’s amazing,” said Alhaddad, who handles all base closures. “They work together as partners and support each other. I’m really happy about it.”

Source: CENTCOM.

U.S. transfers three bases to Iraqi government in Ninawa

US Forces - Iraq

NINAWA PROVINCE, Iraq (Feb. 11, 2010) – United States Forces transferred three bases to the Government of Iraq in Ninawa province Feb. 9, signaling a ready, secure and stable Iraq.

In three separate ceremonies, Joint Security Sites Iraqi Turkey Pipeline 2, Badoush and Scorpion were officially transferred to the Government of Iraq.

The closures began at JSS Scorpion, where members of the Iraqi forces gathered alongside Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, and watched asa the bases were transferred with just a few quick signatures.

The Soldiers in attendance, Iraqi and American, have a history together, according to Capt. Aaron Vevasis, company commander for Company C, 1/64 AR.

“We worked directly with their battalion headquarters and conducted patrols together,” Capt. Vevasis said. “The base transfer was made possible because of the Iraqi Army’s success.”

“We’re one step closer to the Iraqis being able to establish their own security and maintain their own country by themselves,” said Sgt. 1st Class Robert Dozier, an infantryman and platoon sergeant for 1st Platoon, Company B, 1/64 AR.

Sergeant 1st Class Dozier’s platoon was stationed at JSS Scorpion for the last three months, and worked and trained closely with the Iraqis.

Shortly after the transfer of authority for Scorpion was complete, the transfer of Badoush took place. Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Williams, commander of 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery, 2nd BCT, 3rd Inf. Div., sat with Iraqi Army Brig. Gen. Daham Ibrahim Qader, the Badoush prison warden with the Ministry of Justice, and Sameer Alhaddad, who handles all official base transfers.

“I am greatly honored to receive this facility from the American forces today,” said Iraqi Army Brig. Gen. Daham.

“On behalf of all the Americans that have served here in Badoush — over the past several months and years — I want to thank you for the partnership and allowing our Soldiers to train and work alongside the police here at the prison as well as the people in the city here at Badoush,” said Lt. Col. Williams.

“This is just another positive step forward in the relationship for the country of Iraq,” the commander went on to say.
The three representatives then signed the papers officially finalizing the transfer of Badoush to the Government of Iraq.

A short helicopter ride later, the Iraqi and U.S. Forces representatives arrived at ITP2, to transfer the last of the three bases.

“I am thrilled, and I think it’s a great day,” said Capt. Thomas Carroll, the company commander for Company B, 1/64 AR. “It shows that Americans are true to their word. It’s a good day for the Iraqis and Americans together.”

Captain Carroll’s unit, which has worked at ITP2 for a more than three months, conducted counter-improvised explosive device patrols with Iraqi forces during their stay. The unit is being replaced by a reconnaissance platoon from the 352nd Iraqi Army Battalion.

“We will continue to be close,” said Capt. Carroll. “The Iraqi people are in good hands with this unit.”

Continuing the relationship between the Iraqis and the U.S. Forces was also re-iterated by a member of the Iraqi Prime Minister’s staff.

“I can see the relationship between the two armies, and it’s amazing,” said Alhaddad, who handles all base closures. “They work together as partners and support each other. I’m really happy about it.”

Source: US CENTCOM.

Navy divers, EOD salvage plane crash

by MC2 (AW) William Pittman
Sixth Fleet Public Affairs

USNS GRAPPLE, Mediterranean Sea (Feb. 10, 2010) - U.S. Navy Sailors and civilian mariners attached to USNS Grapple (T-ARS 53) aided in the recovery of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 409.

Grapple received the call to assist in the salvage of the crashed aircraft off the coast of Beirut, Lebanon, on Jan. 25. The ship immediately got underway from Tunis, Tunisia and traveled to Augusta Bay, Sicily to pick up 15 U.S. Navy Divers and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technicians (EOD), before making the trip to Lebanon.

The 15 member team comprised of Mobile Diving Salvage Unit 2 (MDSU-2) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 8 (EOD MU8) Sailors, worked together in recovery efforts.

"It's not out of the ordinary to bring EOD units alongside MDSU units," said Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Turner, the officer in charge of the embarked MDSU detachment. "They bring additional equipment to the table that allows us to work more efficiently in an operation like this."

The EOD detachment brought along equipment such as the MK-16 breathing apparatus, handheld sonar equipment and additional medical personnel to assist with the mission, said Turner.

"We're here to support the Government of Lebanon in any way," said Senior Chief Navy Diver Sam Mataa, the EOD detachment's "Master Diver", who is the senior diver responsible for overseeing the efficiency and safety of the mission. "This is their operation; we're here to bring additional technical experience and diving and salvage equipment in case they need it."

After arriving off the coast of Lebanon, the divers and EOD personnel teamed up with members of the Lebanese Armed Forces to conduct a search of the area. As a result of teamwork, the coalition of U.S. and Lebanese forces were able to locate and recover some of the wreckage.

"I'm proud of the work that our team accomplished," said Turner. "It was great to work alongside the EOD team and the Lebanese Armed Forces, and our team accomplished a lot in a short time frame."

Mobile Diving Salvage Unit 2 is homeported in Little Creek, Va., and EOD Mobile Unit 8 is homeported out of Augusta Bay, Sicily. Grapple is homeported out of Norfolk, Va.

Picture: Navy Diver 2nd Class Todd Walsh and Navy Diver 2nd Class Matthew Trautman await submersion into the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Lebanon.

Source: CENTCOM.

Marines transfer Anbar command, exit Iraq

by Spc. Kayleigh Cannon
82nd Airborne Division

RAMADI, Iraq (Jan. 25, 2010) – A major indicator of the responsible drawdown of U.S. forces from Iraq occurred here, Jan. 23, when the II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) transferred authority of Iraq's largest province to the U.S. Army’s 1st Armored Division, United States Division - Center.

The ceremony also marked the end of the nearly six-year U.S. Marine Corps command presence in Iraq and comes at a pivotal time when U.S. forces are transferring from combat to stability operations.

Before the ceremony, 1st AD's area of operations encompassed Baghdad and its surrounded communities. With this historic transfer of authority, the division now also oversees the sprawling Al Anbar province in the west.

Since its activation as II MEF (Forward) July 2, 2008, the Marine division worked with the people of Al Anbar and tribal shaykhs to help secure peace and stability for the province and all of Iraq. The efforts of II MEF (Forward) built upon the developments made during two previous Marine Expeditionary Force rotations.

"This is a pivotal moment in the history of Iraq," said Maj. Gen. R.T. Tryon, II MEF (Forward).

Marines have been at the heart of almost every major Iraq campaign period since February 2004, from the early battles in an-Najaf and Fallujah, along the western Euphrates River Valley which extends from Al Qa'im to Rawah; and continuing with the pivotal Awakening Movement which many historians and diplomatic experts credit as the turning of the tide against al Qaeda in Iraq.

"Since early 2004, the U.S. Marines serving in Al Anbar have consistently exemplified their motto, Semper Fi – Always Faithful," said Lt. Gen. Charles Jacoby, deputy commanding general for operations and I Corps commanding general, U.S. Forces - Iraq. "They have been especially faithful to the people of Al Anbar; the focal point of their mission in Iraq. Anbaris are resilient people who have sacrificed dearly but now emerge as stronger people."

As the Marines say their goodbyes to the citizens and tribal leaders of Al Anbar, Iraqi Soldiers and Police in the region will begin working closely with 1st AD, under the continued leadership of 1st Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division (Advise and Assist Brigade) who have been operating there for about six months. Army leaders with 1st AD said they are eager to build on II MEF's reputation; Tryon expressed confidence in their ability to do so.

"Today's ceremony is certainly an example of continued positive change as we transition and consolidate U.S. forces under the flag of USD-C," said Tryon. "Over the last several years, we have seen a logical and a desired progression in Anbar, moving from combat operations to counter insurgency operations, and now to stability operations."

Tryon praised the efforts of the Iraqis and tribal shaykhs in Al Anbar for their courage in standing against tyranny and violence in their streets.

"These things have not been accomplished over the course of the past several years because of what U.S. forces have done alone," said Tryon. "Rather, these achievements are a result of what we have done together in partnership with one another and with the leadership of the Iraqi civil sector.

"We see over and again that we are at our best when we partner together to achieve our mutual objectives and goals working side-by-side, hand-in-hand," he said," "learning from one another in accomplishing our mutual mission."

The casing of the II MEF colors signified completion of the Marine Corps mission in Iraq. As the Marine color guard marched their colors off the stage, the Army color guard replaced them. Maj. Gen. Terry Wolff, 1st AD, USD-C commanding general, said the accomplishments of the Marines in the region will not be in vain.

"For many of us who have served with you on multiple tours across Iraq, we'll never forget your sacrifices and all that you have given on our behalf," he said.

He emphasized that his division will match Al Anbar's changing environment by assisting the region's tribal shaykhs and Iraqi Security Forces to ensure all Iraqis in the region enjoy the security and peace they deserve.

"Today is one of those transition points in the evolution of military operations as the 1st AD and USD-C takes over responsibility for partnering with Iraqi Security Forces and the provincial government of Al Anbar," said Wolff. "As we move forward, we understand the importance of this year in Iraq, and the USD-C team has dedicated ourselves to that mission and the tasks ahead."

Source: US CENTCOM.

Soldiers give poor Iraqis economic alternatives

by Ben Hutto
367th MPAD

PB HAMIYAH (Jan. 20, 2010) – One-by-one, they filtered into the small room, Jan. 12, filled with hope and carrying sad stories in their hearts.

A 20-year-old widow with five children told how her husband was taken in the middle of the night, three years ago, by "bad men." She told how his body was found a week later and how hard it has been to support her family.

A 17-year-old boy came in wearing a tattered pink jacket. He said he was forced to drop out of school to support his brother's children. When asked why he had to do that, he explained in a sad voice that his older brother and father were both killed by terrorists a few years ago.

The list of the needy went on and on that morning.

Life in Khidr, Iraq, a small village in an area once dubbed "the Triangle of Death" by the American media at the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom, can be hard. The area still doesn't have a local police force, although a police station is under construction.

The 8th Iraqi Army Division maintains security as best they can, but a local shaykh says that financial help from the Iraqi government is slow in making its way to the area.

"All farmers in Iraq have a right to go to the government and ask for help," he said, "but it is never enough for the farmers here, if they get anything at all."

So far, the Americans have been key to taking up the slack, he said.

"The U.S. Forces have been very helpful giving us projects," he said. "If the Americans don't help us, who will? I honestly don't know."

On Oct. 12, the Soldiers of "B" Company, 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, working out of Patrol Base Hamiyah, were there to provide much-needed help for the widows and poor of the area.

The battalion brought contracts that will help 70 poor widows and farmers establish turkey farms, bee keeping houses and irrigation wells.

As the applicants signed their names to the contracts, Staff Sgt. Jon Kirkendall, a squad leader in "B" Company, from Portsmouth, Ohio, said he could see many of them finally feeling a glimmer of hope.

"These people are exactly who these programs are designed for," he said. "You can see many of them are desperate for a way to take care of their families. Hopefully, these projects can help them find a way to become self-sufficient."

According to Sgt. Brian Wilson, a Soldier from Fort Lewis attached to "B" Company, the three programs are perfect for the people they are helping, because they are designed to be self-sufficient enterprises that require very little work on the part of the applicants.

"Honey bees thrive in this area," said Wilson, a native of Elk Grove, Calif. "It will really just be a matter of the widows waiting for them to make honey and draining it off. The turkey applicants will receive 30 turkeys that will start reproducing a few months after they arrive. With the feed we will provide for the birds, all the applicants really have to do is feed their animals and wait."

While the cost of starting these projects isn't that high, Wilson said, the benefit of them could potentially be enormous.

"As long as the applicants are allowed to do what the program is designed for, I think they can all be self-sufficient," he said. "Obviously, not all 70 applicants will be successful, but even if ten make it, it will have been worthwhile."

Those ten may not have had much hope outside for the program, Wilson said.

"These programs are reaching a segment of Iraq that, traditionally, has had very few opportunities to support themselves and their families," he said.

As the applicants filed out of the small room, Wilson and Kirkendall gave each a handshake and wished them luck. Wilson told every applicant that they would be contacted around the first of next month to begin the delivery of their animals and equipment.

"It feels good to help folks," said Kirkendall. "You just hope that they all find a way to make it last and take care of their families."

PHOTO: Sgt. Brian Wilson congratulates a farmer in Khidr after he signs an economic project contract that will provide him with 30 turkeys and feed to support them. The contracts, aimed at helping the needy in northern Babil province, will give struggling families a way to support their families without having to turn to terrorist cells for support.

Source: CENTCOM.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Petraeus: Aid to Yemen likely to double in 2010

by John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (Jan. 11, 2010) – The U.S. counterterrorism approach to Yemen likely will entail doubling the amount of aid there, but does not include deploying American troops, Army Gen. David H. Petraeus said.

The general’s remarks on CNN’s “Amanpour” show yesterday come as focus on al-Qaida’s presence in Yemen has increased after the attempted Christmas Day bombing of a Detroit-bound U.S. flight allegedly by a Nigerian who received training and explosives from terrorists in Yemen.

“Last year, it was somewhere around $70 million,” the commander of U.S. Central Command said of U.S. counterterrorism funding to Yemen. “Over the course of this fiscal year, it should be somewhere around $150 million or more.”

Following the alleged botched attack by Farouk Abdulmutallab on Northwest Airlines Flight 253, the Transportation Security Agency cited Yemen, which began receiving U.S. counterterrorism funding in 2006, as one of 14 “countries of interest.” The identification places passengers with links to the country under greater scrutiny as the United States ratchets up security at domestic and partnering airports.

On the heels of a recent trip to Yemen, Petraeus said the United States does not intend to deploy military forces there, adding that Yemeni Foreign Minister Abu Bakr al-Qirbi has made clear that Yemen does not want American troops on the ground.

“We would always want a host nation to deal with a problem itself,” Petraeus said of the intended U.S. approach. “We want to help. We're providing assistance.”

In a separate interview that aired on CNN’s "Fareed Zakaria GPS" yesterday, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff echoed the message that the United States does not intend to deploy troops to Yemen.

“Right now, as far as any kind of boots on the ground there, with respect to the United States, that’s just not a possibility,” Navy Adm. Mike Mullen said.

Yemen has long been considered a refuge for jihadists, providing a home to Mujahidin fighters returning from fighting Soviet forces in Afghanistan in the 1980s. Site of the USS Cole bombing that killed 17 Americans in 2000, Yemen’s radical Islamic presence returned to the spotlight earlier last year when it was revealed that Army Maj. Nidal Hasan, the alleged perpetrator of the Nov. 5, 2009, shooting at Fort Hood, Texas, that killed 13, had links to a firebrand cleric residing in Yemen.

The United States increased so-called 1206 funding to Yemen from $4.6 million in fiscal 2006 to $26 million the following year; no such counterterrorism assistance was allocated in 2008. American aid last year provided Yemen with radios, helicopter spare parts, trucks, patrol boats, and maintenance training, military officials said.

Despite internal challenges that include a rebellion in the north and a secessionist movement in the south, Yemen has made security improvements with regard to combating terrorism, both Petraeus and Mullen said.

Asked whether the Yemeni government is as committed to fighting al-Qaida as it is to the other problems within its borders, Petraeus said, “Time will tell, but we have certainly seen significant commitment over the course of recent months, in particular.”

Source: CENTCOM.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.