Stories You Won't Find In The Local Paper, Or On The TV News

SECURITY BERM UNDER CONSTRUCTION AT SINIYAH

2006-01-07T22:23:00.000-06:00

In a return to an ancient method of keeping out barbarians, a small village is building an earth wall around their town.

January 6, 2006
TIKRIT, Iraq – In a combined effort to reduce insurgent violence in As Siniyah, community leaders, Iraqi security forces and coalition Soldiers began construction on a berm around the village Jan. 5.

Following the recent spike in insurgent roadside and vehicle-borne bombs, leaders of this small village near Bayji in northern Salah Ad Din Province discussed what measures could be taken to improve the security situation.

Local police, city council members, sheiks and religious leaders met with leaders from the 1st Squadron, 33rd Cavalary Regiment 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) to discuss the operation.

As Siniyah's community leaders have long insisted those responsible for the violence were outsiders, not residents of the village. An overwhelming majority of those at today's meeting agreed that a berm would prevent these outsiders from using the village as a safe haven.

Once completed, the berm will be approximately 10 kilometers in length and nearly eight feet in height. Iraqi police and soldiers will man the access points into the village as well as guard towers being built in conjunction with the berm.

Iraqi citizens suffer the most from insurgent violence. Almost 80 percent of those killed and wounded by IEDs are Iraqis, not Coaltion Soldiers.

Provincial leaders expressed their approval of the berming operation. After a similar operation to deny insurgents access to the city of Samarra in August 2005, the level of violence sharply dropped off.

Work on the berm is expected to continue for several days.

SCUZBALLS DIES IN DETENTION, AAAW!

2006-01-05T16:59:00.000-06:00

January 5, 2006
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – An unidentified male Iraqi detainee died yesterday while being transferred from Ar Rutbah to Camp Korean Village Jan 4.

The man was detained after a coordinated series of raids, along with 22 other men suspected of insurgent activities.

When the convoy arrived at the detention facility, Marines found the man unresponsive. Medical personnel were immediately summoned and rendered aid. However, the man did not respond to treatment and was pronounced dead.

The cause and circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation.

SUICIDE SCUZBALL FAILS TO STOP COP RECRUITMENT

2006-01-05T16:57:00.000-06:00

January 5, 2006
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq– Despite a suicide bomber attack at 10:55 a.m. on a crowd of Ramadi citizens at an Iraqi police recruitment center near the Ramadi Glass and Ceramics Works, the applicants returned and continued the screening process.

Approximately 30 Iraqi males were killed when the bomber detonated his suicide vest. Military physicians immediately began treating the wounded until the injured could be transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment.

The four-day Iraqi Police recruitment and screening drive in Ramadi started Jan. 2 and has produced 600 qualified applicants during the first three days of screening.

Those candidates selected will attend 10 weeks of Basic Iraqi Police Training in Baghdad before returning to patrol Ramadi’s streets. The applicants must be between the ages of 20 to 35 and successfully complete the screening requirements established by the Minister of the Interior, who governs the Iraqi Police Force.

SUICIDE SCUZBALL EXPLODES IN RAMADI

2006-01-05T16:55:00.000-06:00

January 5, 2006
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq – A suicide bomb exploded at Jan. 5 at 10:55 a.m. near the Ramadi Glass and Ceramics Works where screening for Iraqi Police Officers was taking place.

The extent of the casualties is not known at this time; however, initial reports indicate the suicide bomber wearing an explosive vest targeted the applicants.

The four-day Iraqi Police recruitment and screening drive in Ramadi started Jan. 2 and has produced 600 qualified applicants during the first three days of screening.

At 10:30 a.m. approximately 1,000 prospective candidates were waiting in line to apply for a position for the new Iraqi Police Force currently being reconstituted in Al Anbar.

Those candidates selected will attend 10 weeks of Basic Iraqi Police Training in Baghdad before returning to Ramadi to police its streets. The applicants must be between the ages of 20 to 35 years of age and successfully complete the screening requirements established by the Minister of the Interior, who governs the Iraqi Police Force.

GRUNTS TAKE PILES OF GUNS N' AMMO, 11 SCUZBALLS

2006-01-05T16:53:00.000-06:00

January 5, 2006
TIKRIT, Iraq – Soldiers from Task Force Band of Brothers seized four weapons caches and detained 11 suspected terrorists Jan. 4 in northern Iraq.

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team, conducting a patrol near Hawija, detained eight suspects and destroyed a large collection of weapons and explosives Jan. 4.

Three of the men were caught as they tried to run away when the patrol came upon their truck stopped alongside the road. Five other men were discovered in the truck. The weapons included rocket-propelled grenades and launchers, machine guns and IED components.

Three more suspects were taken into custody after another 1st BCT patrol near Hawija stopped their vehicle and discovered 30 pistols.

A local man reported a cache of approximately 6,000 anti-aircraft artillery rounds to a patrol near Bayji. The cache was transported to a nearby military base for disposal.

A fourth cache, containing 25 artillery rounds was discovered and taken to a base near Kirkuk for disposal.

IRAQI AND MNDCS GRUNTS SEIZE PILE O' GUNS N' AMMO, 6 SCUZBALLS

2006-01-05T16:50:00.000-06:00

January 4, 2006
Diwaniyah Province, Iraq -- MNDCS and Iraqi Soldiers seized illegal weapon caches in Diwaniyah and Wasit provinces.

During operations six suspicious men were detained and the following weapons and munitions were found: 75 assorted mines, 40 artillery and mortar rounds, seven RPG launchers with 69 rounds, 50 hand grenades, sniper rifles, machine guns and explosive material.

SKY SPY SEES SCUZBALLS, BLOWS 'EM UP

2006-01-05T16:43:00.000-06:00

Scuzballs were observed placing a roadside bomb. They were tracked to their house and targeted.

January 3, 2006
TIKRIT, Iraq – Coalition forces reconnaissance aircraft observed three men suspected of emplacing an improvised explosive device digging in a road near Bayji after 9:00 p.m. on Jan.2, prompting a military response against them.

An unmanned aerial vehicle from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division observed the would-be attackers as they dug a hole following the common pattern of road-side bomb emplacement. The individuals were assessed as posing a threat to Iraqi civilians and coalition forces, and the location of the three men was relayed to close air support pilots.

The individuals left the road site and were followed from the air to a nearby building. Coalition forces employed precision guided munitions on the structure.

Local Iraqi police were the first authorities at the scene to conduct post-event response.

OPERATION GREEN TRIDENT UNCOVERS TONS OF GUNS N' AMMO

2006-01-02T12:42:00.000-06:00

72 buried caches yielded 10 tons of munitions. Weight of explosives alone inside munitions equaled 2,200 pounds.

January 2, 2006
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq – U.S. Marines discovered more than ten metric tons of munitions hidden at 72 cache sites 39 km south of Fallujah during the week-long Operation Green Trident.

First Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 8 began the operation last week near the village of Al Latifiyah to search suspected locations for hidden weapon caches. More than 1,000 artillery and mortar rounds were unearthed along with scores of rocket propelled grenades and hand grenades. Most of the caches were shallowly buried along the banks of the Euphrates River and surrounding area.

The weight of the explosives contained within these munitions is approximately one metric ton (2,200 lbs). The artillery and mortar rounds are commonly used by insurgents to make improvised explosive devices.

3 RAIDS NAB 23 SCUZBALLS

2006-01-01T13:12:00.000-06:00

December 31, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi and U.S. Soldiers captured 23 suspected terrorists who were the targets of three raids Dec. 30 and Dec. 31 in northern Iraq.

Soldiers from Iraq’s 2nd Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 5th Army Division and 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division captured the primary target of the operation along with 10 more suspected terrorists west of Muqdadiyah. The operation was designed to pick up a Baath Party leader who was behind many attacks on Iraqi and U.S. forces, and the civilian population in the area.

Elsewhere, more Soldiers from 2nd Bn., 2nd Bde., 5th IAD and 3rd BCT, 3rd ID nabbed four anti-Iraqi forces as part of a time sensitive raid on two houses in Muqdadiyah. The troops used tips from informants on the whereabouts of the four individuals who are believed to be responsible for IED and small arms attacks against the Coalition and Iraqi security forces in the local area.

Troops from the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment zeroed in on eight people involved in terrorist activities in Tal Afar. All eight of the suspects were picked up without incident in the raid and taken to a nearby military base for questioning.

None of the Soldiers involved in the two days of operations were injured as they continued to remove those responsible for acts of terrorism and violence against the civilians and security forces in the area.

IRAQI COPS FOIL KIDNAP ATTEMPT

2006-01-01T13:08:00.000-06:00

Cops chase kidnappers, free victim after gun battle.

December 30, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi Police and Army units successfully rescued the brother of a Salah Ad Din Provincial Council member and arrested three suspects after a failed kidnapping attempt in Tikrit Dec. 29.

Police chased the kidnappers from Tikrit to the village of al Alam, about 10 miles east of the city, before the suspects abandoned their vehicle and dragged their victim into a nearby house. As the officers approached the building, the kidnappers opened fire on them.

The police secured the area around the house and called for support from a 1st Brigade, 4th Iraqi Army Division unit stationed nearby.

The Iraqi troopers, augmented by U.S. Soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, entered the house and quickly subdued the suspects.

No one was injured during the incident and the suspects were taken into custody by the police who are investigating the incident.

109 SCUZBALLS, 4 PILES OF GUNS N' AMMO TAKEN

2006-01-01T12:44:00.000-06:00

Iraqi/Coalition grunts and Iraqi cops detain scuzballs in several locations, over a 12 day period.

December 30, 2005
MOSUL, Iraq -- Iraqi Security Forces along with Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 109 suspected terrorists and seized four weapons caches in northern Iraq, Dec. 17-29.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion 4th Brigade 2nd Division detained 13 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate raids in Mosul Dec. 20-29.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion 1st Brigade 2nd Division, detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activities during a raid in Mosul Dec.22.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion 1st Brigade 4th Division detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid Dec. 28.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion 4th Brigade 2nd Division detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity during a raid in Tal Afar Dec. 20.

Iraqi Commandos from 3rd Battalion 4th Brigade and Soldiers from 1st Battalion 17th Infantry Regiment detained one individual during a raid in Mosul Dec. 23.

Iraqi Police detained six individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul Dec. 18-22.

Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained eight individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul Dec. 17-25.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Bayji, Dec. 28.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained 25 individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Mosul Dec. 19-28.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 10 Infantry Regiment detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul, Dec. 27.

Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st infantry Regiment, detained 20 individuals suspected terrorist activity during separate operations in Mosul, Dec. 27.

Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, detained 10 individuals for suspected terrorist activity during operations near Tal Afar, Dec. 22.

Soldiers from TF 5-7 detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid north of Balad, Dec. 26.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, detained 11 individuals suspected of terrorist activity and discovered a weapons cache consisting of 180 mortar rounds, a functional machinegun, and artillery fuses during separate operations in the Kirkuk province Dec. 27.

Soldiers from 2/3 ACR discovered a weapons cache during operations near Tal Afar Dec.17.

Soldiers from 43rd Combat Engineer Company discovered two weapons caches consisting of paraphernalia for making IEDs, AK-47 ammunition, and magazines during operations in Mosul Dec. 20.

Soldiers from 4/23 discovered a weapons cache consisting of 16 120mm mortar rounds during operations in Mosul, Dec. 25.

Soldiers from 1-17 Inf. discovered a weapons cache consisting of two AK-47’s, seven magazines, one pistol, five rocket-propelled grenades, ammunition, and blasting caps during operations in Mosul, Dec. 28.

IRAQI/U.S. GRUNTS CLEAR RAMADI STREETS

2006-01-01T12:33:00.000-06:00

December 29, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq – Iraqi Army soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 7th Division working alongside of 2nd Brigade Combat Team (28th Infantry Division) are clearing the streets of known insurgents in western Ramadi.

In the past two days, 1-1-7 IA forces have detained five targeted insurgents, to include Jassim Mohammed Fayadh, a high value insurgent leader, allegedly responsible for financing terrorism in the Tammim neighborhood and known to have supplied arms and munitions to Al Qaeda in Iraq.

The four additional detainees are under investigation for coordinating insurgent attacks and activities, including the storage and transportation of weapon systems and munitions.

“Our battalion has been working in western Ramadi with the Coalition Forces for the last eight months. During that time, we have fought and captured many insurgents. Yesterday was a big step to bringing safety and security to this area for our local citizens and their families. We will continue to work with our coalition partners to bring security to western Ramadi,” said Lt. Col. Mustafa, Commanding Officer, 1-1-7 IA.

The insurgents have been placed under custody of Coalition Forces and will be tried in the Iraqi Criminal Court system.

There were no injuries to local Iraqi citizens, Iraqi Army soldiers or Coalition Forces. Additionally, there were no damages to equipment during the capture of these high level insurgent leaders.

6 SCUZBALLS, PILE OF GUNS N' AMMO TAKEN IN MUSLAKHAH

2006-01-01T11:16:00.000-06:00

December 24, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq -- An air assault mission conducted by 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, resulted in the capture of several suspected terrorists and the seizure of a large cache of ammunition in Muslakhah, Iraq, Dec. 23.

Elements from Company C, 1-187, landed in Muslakhah aboard UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters and began searching the village for individuals listed as being involved with terrorist activities in the area. Within one hour of touching down, they identified and detained two individuals on the list of suspects.

“Every day we win small victories,” said Capt. Christopher Judge, commander, Company C. “But when we can get someone on our list, it is a huge boost.”

By the day’s end, the unit had apprehended six individuals.

During the air assault mission, Soldiers of Company D, 1-187, began an amphibious assault on an island in the Tigris River adjacent to Muslakhah. While patrolling the banks of the island, they discovered a cache of more than 100 mortar rounds – 45-82mm rounds and 64-120mm rounds. They also seized 20 rockets and 600 rounds of small arms ammunition.

“We are trying to make it difficult for [terrorists] to operate [in Mulakhah],” Judge said.

The town of Muslakhah, north of Al Fatah, is located near an oil pipeline that is under construction, which will bring much needed revenue to the area when complete. Attacks on the workers have disrupted its construction in the past, but have stopped since the Rakkasans took over the area Nov. 1. The Rakkasans continue to work with Iraqi forces to reduce attacks and safeguard the pipeline.

11 PILES OF GUNS N' AMMO BLOWN UP NEAR BAYJI

2006-01-01T10:37:00.000-06:00

Citizen tip lead grunts to one pile, then another, then another, and so on.

December 24, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team thought they had discovered a single cache of weapons near Bayji Dec. 20 after a tip from a local resident. On Dec. 23, the Soldiers finished unearthing the last of the weapons from the eleventh cache at the site.

“This place is basically an ammo supply point for the enemy,” said Capt. Matt Bartlett, commander of Company B, 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment. “Any attack they wanted to do, whether an IED or small-arms, they could get what they needed here.”

The Rakkasan Soldiers slammed the door to the supply point Dec. 23 with three immense detonations conducted by an explosive ordnance disposal team.

More than 1,600 rockets and missiles, 283 large artillery shells, 27 anti-tank mines and 80 assault weapons were pulled from the ground along with nearly a ton of bulk explosives.

It was unclear if the cache was in use by terrorists prior to its excavation. Fresh tire tracks and the lack of wear on some of the weapons and packaging indicated that the deposits were new. In other caches, the weapons were corroded and had documentation with entries ending in 1984, dating them back to before the first Gulf War.

Whether the cache was active or not, its contents will never be used to harm anyone thanks to the three labor-intensive days the Soldiers spent excavating the site. In most cases the sites were dug up with shovels then loaded and consolidated by hand.

The resident who tipped off the Soldiers about the cache not only ensured the safety of the local residents from AIF attacks, but also collected a reward of $2,500 for the tip. The U.S. and its allies offer rewards for any information that lead to the capture of certain high profile terrorists and the tools utilized in their trade. This cache find will certainly hamper the enemy’s ability to carry out future attacks against the civilians, security forces of Iraq and all of the Coalition Forces trying to ensure the democratic process will find a peaceful home here in Iraq.

2 HIGH LEVEL SCUZBALLS NABBED IN MOSUL

2006-01-01T10:25:00.000-06:00

Captured scuzball snitches on associate within days. A very tough fellow!

December 23, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – An Ansar al-Sunna of Mosul Media Emir and Administrator were captured by Coalition Forces during raids on suspected terrorist safe houses near Mosul.

Muhammad ‘Amir Husayn Mar’I al-Sufi, known as Abu Naba, was an Ansar al-Sunna media emir in Mosul and ‘Adnan ‘Abd-al-Wahab ‘Abdallah Mahmud al-Badrani, known as Abu Hudayfah, an Ansar al-Sunna administrator, were captured Nov. 23 and Dec. 5, 2005 respectively.

Abu Naba was responsible for disseminating propaganda - in this capacity, he produced propaganda fliers and compact disks focusing on military operations, anti-voting messages, Jihad messages and prayers.

He also facilitated videos of attacks on Iraqi and Coalition Forces to be posted to the Internet. He purchased cameras for terrorists to film violent acts including bombings, kidnappings and executions. Abu Naba helped produce the final video products and delivered the videos to other Ansar al-Sunna leaders for posting on the Internet.

Based on information Abu Naba and other detained terrorists provided to Coalition Forces, Abu Hudayfah, allegedly in charge of logistics and support for Ansar al-Sunna of Mosul was also identified and captured.

3 SCUZBALLS NABBED PLACING FAKE BOMBS

2006-01-01T10:19:00.000-06:00

Fake roadside bombs meant to gauge reaction.

December 23, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq Three terrorists were captured as they were caught emplacing a hoax roadside bomb in east Baghdad Dec. 21.

At about 6 p.m., a patrol from 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry observed a civilian vehicle dropping cement blocks in the median of a major thoroughfare. The patrol intercepted the suspicious vehicle and detained three suspected terrorists.

Additional elements of 3-7 CAV secured the site surrounding the suspicious items and an explosive ordnance disposal team investigated the objects and found them to be hoax roadside bombs.

"These suspected terrorists were not placing cement blocks in the road for any other reason than to terrorize and intimidate the population. They are currently being detained at a military detention facility," said Maj. Paul Reese, operations officer for 2nd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division.

"Anyone found guilty of emplacing a hoax roadside bomb is a terrorist, make no mistake about it; the good people of Iraq are disgusted by these types of games."

Hoax roadside bombs are commonly used by terrorists to check how Iraqi Security and Coalition Forces will react.

LOCAL LEADS GRUNTS TO ROCKET FACTORY

2006-01-01T07:13:00.000-06:00

Another Iraqi citizen opts for democracy.

December 23, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq - A local national identified a home in east Baghdad that was being used as a factory to make improvised rocket-launchers.

At about 6:30 p.m. elements of 3rd squadron, 7th Cavalry, raided the home and discovered 15 rocket-launchers were in the process of being built and one 57 millimeter rocket was completed and ready to be fired. No one was present in the home at the time of the raid.

“It is encouraging that the Iraqi citizens are continuing to choose the side of the new government over the terrorists. The Iraqi citizens know that providing information against the terrorists to Coalition or Iraqi Security Forces will help to improve the security situation in their neighborhoods,” said Col. Joseph DiSalvo, commander of Coalition Forces in east Baghdad.

All equipment in the home was seized and will be used as evidence against the homeowners when they are caught. Iraqi Security Forces are continuing the search.

GRUNTS FIND, BLOW UP GUNS N' AMMO

2006-01-01T07:07:00.000-06:00

Patrol makes find Northeast of Baghdad

December 21, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Task Force Baghdad Soldiers on patrol discovered a large cache of munitions in northeast Baghdad Dec. 21.

The Soldiers from A Troop, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment found 27 rocket-propelled grenade rounds, three 82 mm mortar rounds, 13 armor-piercing rocket-propelled grenade launchers, 28 rocket-propelled propellant chargers, 10,000 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and 400 4.5 mm rounds.

All munitions were turned over to an explosive ordnance disposal team for destruction by a controlled detonation.

OPERATION MOONLIGHT ENDS

2005-12-26T13:16:00.000-06:00

Operation was first in which Iraqi Grunts acted solo, and American forces observed.

December 21, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq— Operation Alkamra Almaner (Moonlight) concluded Dec. 20.

Moonlight was the first brigade-level operation conducted by Iraqi Army Soldiers in the al Anbar province. Five Iraqi Army companies from 1st Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division led the operation and were supported by a company of U.S. Marines from Regimental Combat Team - 2.

The operation netted a weapons cache; additionally, Operation Moonlight demonstrated the Iraqi Army Soldiers’ ability to gather intelligence, plan, execute and exercise command and control during a large-scale operation.

The Iraqi Soldiers, with Marines acting as observers, cleared an area east of Ubaydi along the northern and southern banks of the Euphrates River. The area directly to the west was cleared last month during Operation Steel Curtain.

No terrorists were encountered during the operation; however, one Iraqi Soldier received minor injuries resulting from a roadside bomb attack. The Soldier was treated at the scene and returned to duty. No Iraqi civilian casualties were reported.

No air strikes were conducted during the course of the operation.

9 SCUZBALLS KILLED, 16 NABBED IN OVERNIGHT RAIDS

2005-12-26T13:12:00.000-06:00

December 21, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – At least nine Anti-Iraqi Forces were killed and 16 terror suspects were captured in two separate incidents in southern Baghdad Dec.19-20.

Two vehicles were observed fleeing the scene of a raid Dec. 19. One group pulled a bound hostage from the vehicle and killed him. A U.S. warplane flying in support of operations in the area engaged and killed the terrorists.

The warplane then switched targets, engaging the other vehicle which resulted in at least four AIF deaths and four detainees. Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment transported three of the detainees to a military internment facility for further questioning. One wounded detainee was evacuated to a military hospital.

In a separate incident in Northern Babil, 12 suspected terrorists were detained and an unknown number of weapons and medical supplies were confiscated at a building during an early morning raid Dec. 20.

SCUZBALL BLOWN UP BY OWN BOMB

2005-12-26T13:08:00.000-06:00

"Hoist on his own petard", sayeth Shakespeare.

December 20, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – One terrorist was killed and another severely injured when the improvised explosive device they were attempting to emplace detonated prematurely. The incident occurred Dec. 19, near the city of Tikrit.

Tikrit police and Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team responded to the explosion. The police officers performed first-aid on the injured bomber, who was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The IED was composed of a 155 mm artillery shell and a detonating device, according to an explosives ordnance team investigating the explosion.

Soldiers searching the area discovered another artillery round and several other IED components in a nearby vehicle.

In addition to the wounded bomber, two other men were detained for allegedly attempting to help the surviving bomber avoid the responding security forces.

IRAQI 8TH ARMY CERTIFIED

2005-12-26T13:03:00.000-06:00

Iraqi Division will now plan and conduct operations with limited support from other forces.

December 20, 2005
AD DIWANIYAH, Iraq -- The staff of the 8th Iraqi Army Division accomplished a certification process Dec. 20. This means the division will now have the ability to plan and conduct the operations with limited support of Coalition Forces.

The units of the 8th Division will continue to move forward to achieve the full combat readiness. In the near future, final coordination with local and central administration will be completed in order to finalize the process of battle space transfer.

The certification process was preceded by long term training, exercises and combat operations. Before certification on the division staff level, six battalions and two brigades of the 8th Iraqi Army Division completed certification process towards the goal of combat readiness.

The main elements of the training process included planning and executing counterterrorism operations which encompassed cordon and search techniques check points, patrolling and convoy protection. Tactical training such as weapons proficiency, engineering, communication, medical support and logistics also contributed to the overall certification process.

The main and final test was to check the capabilities of 8th IAD Soldiers during parliamentary elections in December. Division staff, under supervision of Multi-National Division Central South Military Transition Teams, had planned and conducted operations to provide the security environment during elections. Staff and Iraqi Soldiers passed this exam successfully.

The ceremony of signing the protocol of certification took place in 8th Iraqi Army headquarters in ad Diwaniyah. Protocol was signed by MNDCS commander Maj. Gen. Piotr Czerwinski and 8th IAD commander Maj. Gen. Othman Ali Ferhood. Iraqi Land Forces commander and Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq commander participated in the ceremony.

IRAQI GRUNTS TAKE LEAD IN OPERATION MOONLIGHT

2005-12-26T13:01:00.000-06:00

December 19, 2005
AR RAMADI, Iraq – Soldiers from 1st Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division began Operation Alkamra Almaner (Moonlight) early this morning in western Al Anbar.

Iraqi Army soldiers from three Iraqi battalions are conducting a cordon and knock operation east of Ubaydi. The Iraqi soldiers are being supported by 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines, Regimental Combat Team-2 and 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward).

This is the first large-scale operation planned and executed by Iraqi soldiers of the 1st Brigade. The operation objective of Moonlight is to disrupt insurgent activity along the northern and southern banks of the Euphrates River near Ubaydi.

The eastern Al Qa’im region, to include the cities of Husaybah, Karabilah and Ubaydi were cleared of al Qaeda in Iraq-led insurgents during Operation Steel Curtain last month which enabled residents to vote in the Dec. 15 Iraqi National Elections.

CITIZEN LEADS GRUNTS TO MORTAR CACHE

2005-12-26T12:57:00.000-06:00

December 19, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — A concerned local citizen in Tissa Nissan led a group of Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 64th Armor to a large mortar cache, Dec 16.
The cache was buried and consisted of seven 60-millimeter mortar rounds. The Soldiers investigated the site and discovered another suspicious area in the vicinity. They investigated further and discovered another 19 60-millimeter mortar rounds. An explosive ordnance disposal team was called to the site and the ammunition was destroyed.

MAJOR BOMB MAKER CACHE UNCOVERED NEAR HAWIJAH

2005-12-26T12:53:00.000-06:00

Here's to 414 bombs that will NOT go off.

December 18, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – A large cache of IED components was discovered by Soldiers from Task Force Band of Brothers, Dec. 15 near Hawijah.

A pair of scout helicopters from the 101st Airborne Division spotted several individuals behaving suspiciously and the pilots radioed the location to a nearby patrol from the Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team.

The pilots’ instincts were confirmed when the patrol found a cache buried nearby in several 55 gallon drums.

The cache consisted of 414 two way radios, 48 circuit boards and more than 100 timing devices, all used as components in IED manufacturing. The cache also included small amounts of AK-47 ammunition, detonation cord, batteries and several bomb making manuals.

This is the second time in less than a month that 1st BCT has uncovered a major cache in its area. Soldiers discovered more than 4,200 mortar rounds in a single cache Nov. 27 near Kirkuk.

ARREST WARRANT ISSUED FOR MURDEROUS, HIGH VALUE IRAQI SCUZBALL

2005-12-17T18:27:00.000-06:00

Man is leader of scuzball crew that is responsible for the deaths of hundreds.

December 17, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq -- On Dec. 4, The Iraqi Central Investigating Court in Baghdad issued an arrest warrant for Mullah Halgurd Al-Khabir, a “Jihadist” terrorist commander, suspected of leading the insurgency against Coalition and Iraqi forces. The arrest warrant states that Al-Khabir is wanted for violation of Iraqi Penal Code 194, committing terrorist acts.

Al-Khabir is the senior leader in Baghdad for the Iraqi based terrorist organization Ansar al-Sunna, and has historical ties to al Qaeda terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. Khabir replaced the previous commander of Ansar al-Suna, Abdallah Al-Shafi’i, after Shafi’i was killed in December, 2002, in a gun battle with local law enforcement.

Ansar al-Sunna, a terrorist organization with links to terrorists in Syria and Iran, have committed multiple suicide bomb attacks in Iraq that have resulted in the deaths of Coalition Forces, Iraqi Army Soldiers, Iraqi policemen and Iraqi citizens. The majority of these attacks have taken place in Baghdad, Kirkuk and Mosul.

The arrest warrant claims that Al-Khabir, the Emir in Baghdad and regional commander for Ansar al-Sunna, has designed, coordinated and lead attacks “to unsettle the stability and security of Iraq.”

Al-Khabir is the prime suspect in several lethal bombings in Iraq, including the bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad in August 2003. That attack killed the top UN envoy in Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello, 55, from Brazil.

It also killed 21 others and wounded more than one hundred. UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan commented that the bombing was an “act of unprovoked and murderous violence.”
Al-Khabir is also the prime suspect in the October, 2003, bombing of Turkey’s embassy in Baghdad. Two people were killed in that attack. Officials also believe Al-Khabir is responsible for the bombing of the Rahimawa police station in Kirkuk, which killed more than a dozen Iraqis and seriously wounded dozens more.

Iraqi and Coalition Forces continue to pursue Al-Khabir in their unwavering effort to ensure he, and all other insurgents and former regime members, is held accountable and punished within the free and democratic Iraqi Judicial System.

GRUNTS SECURE POLLS, VOTERS CELEBRATE IN AL ANBAR

2005-12-17T09:49:00.000-06:00

December 15, 2005
AR RAMADI, Iraq— Iraqi Security and Coalition Forces helped pave the way for hundreds of thousands of Iraqi citizens in Al Anbar Province to vote in today’s National Parliamentary Elections.

Voter turnout was robust throughout the province, with preliminary reports indicating that a far higher percentage of the predominantly Sunni population participated in today’s elections than did in October’s Constitutional Referendum. Overall, there were few security incidents reported in the Province, and the murder and intimidation campaign that kept many people from the polls during previous votes never materialized.

“Today’s vote exceeded all expectations,” said Assistant Division Commander, Brig. Gen. James L. Williams. “What we saw today was the result of months of hard work by the Iraqi government, the US Ambassador and his staff, the international community, particularly the IECI and Iraqi and Coalition Forces. Most of all, it clearly demonstrates the resolve of the local Iraqi people to take their rightful place in the democratic process.”

In the provincial capital of Ramadi, where only several thousand citizens took part in the Referendum, tens of thousands of voters lined the streets to vote today. Residents were observed dancing, singing and waving the Iraqi flag in a rare display of national pride. Members of both the Iraqi Army and the Iraqi Police provided security throughout the city while Coalition Forces remained largely on the outskirts in the event they were needed for an emergency. It is still too early to tell what percentage of voters in the city actually voted, but the numbers are expected to be much higher than they were during the Referendum.

In Fallujah, where an estimated 90% of voters participated in October’s Referendum, voter turnout in today’s elections was similarly high. As in Ramadi, Coalition Forces turned over much of the responsibilities for securing the vote to Iraqi Security Forces. In Karmah, on the outskirts of Fallujah, a polling site that was bombed by insurgents yesterday was quickly repaired and operational by the time the polls opened today. There were no casualties reported in the incident.

Elsewhere in the province, in cities like Husaybah, Karabilah and Ubaydi, voter turnout was steady throughout the day. Until a few weeks ago, this area near the Syrian border was largely under the influence of al Qaeda in Iraq-led insurgents. Recent Iraqi and Coalition operations such as Steel Curtain and Iron Fist were instrumental in clearing these cities of insurgent fighters. The permanent security presence left behind in this region is seen as a crucial step towards preventing insurgents from establishing a stronghold in the area again.

“No one can look at what happened in Al Anbar today and still deny progress is being made,” said Williams. “Overall, attacks against local citizens and Iraqi and Coalition Forces are down, voter turnout is much higher than before and the people are finally beginning to see the fruitlessness of supporting the insurgency. Credit has to also be given to the bravery of Governor Ma’moun, Governor of Al-Anbar Province, to encourage his Sunni population to vote through their tribal leaders’ encouragement. While we still have a long way to go, we have made remarkable strides since last January’s elections, and now have the potential to establish a real measure of order and security in the Province.”

MORNING BRINGS FLOOD OF IRAQI VOTERS ON HISTORIC DAY

2005-12-17T09:36:00.000-06:00

Iraqis exercise choice of government since Saddam took power 27 years ago.

December 15, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – With tight rings of security circling the city, Iraqi citizens took to the streets the morning of Dec. 15 to vote for the first full-term government since the fall of Saddam Hussein.

Iraqi Police are providing close-in protection at polling stations; Iraqi public Order Battalions and Iraqi Army Soldiers are providing the next level of protection; and more Iraqi Soldiers and Coalition Forces are in a third ring of troops. They will also provide a quick-reaction force if needed.

Shortly after polling sites opened in Baghdad, a rocket landed in the International Zone, damaging a vehicle and injuring one Marine and two civilian contractors. The wounded were treated at the site for minor injuries and released.

Polling stations throughout south Baghdad reported a constant flow of voters.

Early reports indicated voter turnout is higher than the numbers seen on for the Constitutional Referendum vote on Oct. 15.

GRUNTS KEEP TRIGGER FINGERS READY AS POLLS OPEN

2005-12-17T09:32:00.000-06:00

Massive security efforts set up on historic day.

December 15, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Security Forces and Task Force Baghdad Soldiers continued to maintain security at hundreds of polling sites around the city as residents began lining up well before the 7 a.m. opening for the historic national elections Dec. 15.

Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police took the lead on polling-site security as Coalition Forces supported the Iraqis with perimeter checkpoints away from voting sites.

The tight security involves a three-stage inspection system before voters get in to the polling sites. No one with bags, cell phones or packages will be allowed to enter as citizens cast their historic vote.

GRUNTS INSURE IRAQI VOTING RIGHTS

2005-12-17T09:28:00.000-06:00

December 15, 2005
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Soldiers of 3rd Brigade,1st Armored Division and Iraqi officials northwest of Baghdad spent the last week working toward a common goal: making polling sites as secure as possible.

The Soldiers transported concrete barriers and emplaced them at polling places to ensure that voters remain safe during the historic national elections on Dec. 15. The entire planning process was a collaborative effort between Coalition Forces, Iraqi officials, and the Iraqi Army. Iraqi Police and Iraqi Army will assume the primary role of polling site security on election day.

Iraqi officials took the lead in planning election-site security and 3/1 AD troops assisted with logistics, said Maj. Scott Sill, civil military operations officer for the brigade.

Joint planning began right after the Constitutional Referendum vote in October. Everyone involved was able to refine and improve their December plans based on their experience from the first two elections.

The Iraqi Forces are building on what they achieved during the Referendum vote when they curbed attacks and ensured that citizens made it to the polls safely.

GRUNTS NAB 28 SCUZBALLS, KILL 2, TAKE GUNS N' AMMO SOUTH OF BAGHDAD

2005-12-17T09:21:00.000-06:00

Raids aimed at securing Iraq for the election.

December 14, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Task Force Baghdad Soldiers from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division detained 28 suspected terrorists in two separate incidents during continuous operations south of Baghdad Dec. 8-9.

The Soldiers of C Company, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment nabbed 17 individuals Dec. 9 after they were identified by an informant to be associated with terrorist activity.

The capture began while the unit was conducting a cordon and search. Alert Soldiers observed three suspicious men in a nearby field who appeared to be in an overwatch position.

A patrol was sent to question the three individuals. As the Soldiers approached, the suspects jumped up and ran away in two groups. Coalition Forces engaged two of the men, killing them.

One of the other terrorists ran into a nearby house. Soldiers from C Co. immediately searched the home, capturing the one individual who ran away, plus an additional 16 suspected terrorists.

In another incident, Soldiers from D Company, 1st Bn., 502nd Inf. Reg. detained 11 suspected terrorists after stopping two vehicles in the early evening hours of Dec. 8.

The Soldiers were conducting a patrol south of Baghdad when they stopped two suspicious vehicles containing eight individuals. Upon further investigation of the vehicles, the Soldiers discovered multiple cell phones, AK-47 assault rifles, and two 120-millimeter rounds rigged as improvised explosive devices.

Six of the individuals were detained but two men ran into a nearby house. The patrol conducted a cordon and search of the house and found an additional three individuals inside. Soldiers detained all five suspects, plus the other six.

An explosive ordnance disposal team was called to the scene to inspect the vehicles. The EOD team confirmed the cars were being used to transport and emplace IEDs. One vehicle was destroyed by EOD, and the other was confiscated by the Iraqi Army.

13 SCUZBALLS NABBED IN BAHGDAD PRIOR TO ELECTION

2005-12-17T08:45:00.000-06:00

Wonder if they are going to vote?

December 13, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Task Force Baghdad Soldiers and Iraqi Security Forces detained 13 suspected terrorists and located a weapons cache during pre-election operations in the capitol city Dec. 9-10.

Soldiers assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment captured three suspected terrorists during a cordon-and-search operation Dec. 9.

During two different operations Dec. 10, 3rd Bn., 7th Inf. Soldiers detained six additional suspects and seized a weapons cache which included six AK-47 assault rifles, 13 AK-47 magazines, one bag of money and a hand grenade.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment also conducted an assault operation which led to the capture of three suspects in the Dora neighborhood Dec. 9.

In other operations, Iraqi forces assigned to the 1st Battalion, 4th Public Order Brigade detained one suspected terrorist in eastern Rasheed Dec. 9.

JAILED SCUZBALLS VOTE IN OVERWHELMING NUMBERS

2005-12-17T08:40:00.000-06:00

These guys take the first step toward becoming an ex-scuzball.

December 13, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Nearly 90 percent of all eligible security detainees in Multi-National Forces-Iraq Theater Internment Facilities participated in today’s democratic vote on the Iraqi National Ballot.

MNF-I took special care to ensure that every eligible detainee who wanted to vote was afforded the opportunity. Balloting opened early this morning and continued until all eligible detainee’s passed through the polling stations.

Voting took place at Camp Bucca, Abu Ghraib and Fort Suse TIFs. Extending the vote to all eligible Iraqis is another example of how the rule of law is helping to strengthen the Iraqi society. The right to shape a free and representative democracy is not a privilege for few, but a right of all Iraqis.

46 SCUZBALLS AND WEAPONS SEIZED IN MOSUL

2005-12-12T20:34:00.000-06:00

Iraqi grunts did most of the work.

December 12, 2005
MOSUL, IRAQ - Iraqi Security Forces along with Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 46 suspected terrorists and seized weapons caches in northern Iraq Dec. 5-12.

In Mosul, Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division along with Iraqi Police detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized loaded AK-47 magazines during a raid Dec. 5.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 2nd Division detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid Dec. 8.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 1st Division detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations Dec. 9.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Division along with Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment seized a cache of AK-47’s with multiple loaded magazines, a sniper rifle with loaded magazines, an anti-aircraft missile launcher with four missiles, over 100 rounds of ammunition, 500 more linked rounds of ammunition, a semi-automatic pistol, an automatic rifle, hand grenades, rocket propelled grenade launchers with ammunition, and high explosives during a raid Dec. 12.

iraqi Army Soldiers confiscated the cache for future destruction. Suspects are in custody with no ISF injuries reported.

Iraqi Police detained an individual suspected of placing several IED’s near an election site during operations in Mosul Dec.10. The suspect is in custody with no ISF injuries reported.

Also in Mosul, Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized an anti-tank mine, detonators, and a timer Dec. 5.

Soldiers from 1-17 Infantry detained eight individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations Dec. 6-10. The unit detained another ten individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid Dec. 7.

Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 11th Field Artillery Regiment detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity during operations Dec. 9.

Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations Dec. 10. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

In Tal Afar, Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity during a raid Dec. 5.

Soldiers from 2/325 Infantry also discovered a cache of AK-47 bandoleers, a 120-mm round, TNT-filled canisters, sticks of TNT, anti-U.S. propaganda, and various IED materials Dec. 5.

Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained six individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized IED making materials during operations Dec. 9. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

Iraqi Security Forces in conjunction with Multi-National forces continue successful operations aimed at defeating anti-Iraqi forces in an effort to provide safety and security to citizens of the region.

IRAQ: TWO MEMBERS OF IRANIAN RESISTANCE GROUP ABDUCTED

2005-12-12T20:29:00.000-06:00

December 11, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq -- Two members of the People’s Mojahedin of Iran, Hossein Pouyan and Mohammad-Ali Zahedi from the City of Ashraf, were reported to authorities as abducted on Aug. 4 in eastern Baghdad while on a routine logistics trip. The residents of Camp Ashraf have been considered protected persons under the fourth Geneva Convention since June 2004.

Upon receiving reports of the abduction, Multi-National Force - Iraq requested that the Iraqi Police investigate the incident and is assisting in attempts to locate the missing individuals.

IRAQ: OPERATION SKINNER ENDS

2005-12-12T20:18:00.000-06:00

Grunts nabbed several scuzballs, bomb materials, rockets, 4 piles of guns n' ammo, and disrupted ambush plans.

December 11, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq — Iraqi Army Soldiers, U.S. Marines and Army Soldiers from 2nd Brigade Combat Team (28th Infantry Division) concluded Operation Gashshaar (Skinner) in central Ramadi Dec. 10.

The operation began on the evening of Dec. 7 and was the seventh disruption operation conducted in Ramadi since Nov. 16 to set conditions in the city for successful elections December 15.

The operation netted four weapons caches and several detainees and also two command-initiated rocket systems designed to ambush passing convoys in central Ramadi. The combined forces also discovered a roadside bomb that the terrorists planned to use in the rocket attack.

Iraqi and U.S. Forces also disrupted terrorist plans when they discovered a terrorist bomb-making factory in the center of the Ramadi shopping district. Artillery and mortar rounds, timers and remote detonators were found in the bomb making facility.

The previous operations conducted by the Iraqi Army and U.S. Forces in Ramadi recently were: Operation Panthers, Bruins, Lions, Tigers, Shank and Rams.

Details concerning Operation Skinner were not provided earlier due to operational security.

BOMB MAKING MATERIALS FOUND, BLOWN UP

2005-12-10T15:13:00.000-06:00

December 10, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Task Force Baghdad Soldiers on patrol discovered a large cache of munitions in southwest Baghdad Dec. 9.

The Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, found 180 40-millimeter rounds half-buried in the ground on the side of the road. The stockpile was in the vicinity of previous weapons cache sites discovered earlier by Task Force Baghdad Soldiers.

An explosive ordnance disposal team later destroyed the 180 rounds.

3 SCUZBALLS SENTENCED BY THE CENTRAL CRIMINAL COURT

2005-12-10T15:09:00.000-06:00

Varying prison sentences handed down by Iraqi Court.

December 10, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq -- Iraqi Ministry of Justice officials announced today that three members of an al Qaeda in Iraq terrorist cell, located in the Adhamiya area of Baghdad, were convicted by the Central Criminal Court of Iraq for threatening the public safety, crimes against the security of Iraq and belonging to armed groups who threaten the Iraqi people.

The CCCI found Musab Kasar Abdul Rahman al-Hafith, also know as “Yunis,” guilty of threatening the public safety on Nov. 16 and sentenced him to 15 years imprisonment. Uthman Awad Hamid Ahmed al-Jubouri, also known as Ossman Awad Hamid Ahmed, was found guilty of crimes against the security of Iraq on Nov. 22 and was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment. Daud Salman Mohammed Ali al-Barmani was found guilty of belonging to armed groups who threaten the Iraqi people on Dec. 5 and was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment.

The members of the Adhamiya terrorist cell have planned and participated in armed attacks against Iraqi Police, Iraqi National Guard, Iraqi civilians, and Coalition Forces. The cell is also responsible for getting foreign Anti-Iraqi Forces fighters into Iraq from locations such as Morocco, Tunisia, and Northern Africa.

These successful convictions show that the Iraqi security forces are continuing to work toward capturing and bringing to justice all active members of this deadly insurgency. These verdicts reinforce the will of the Iraqi people that former regime members, insurgents and their supporters are held accountable and punished by a court of justice.

52 SCUZBALLS NABBED IN OPERATION ABLE RISING FORCE

2005-12-10T15:07:00.000-06:00

December 10, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – In an update to the results of military operations conducted Dec. 9, Operation Able Rising Force netted additional detainees, for a total of 52 detainees in police custody, including the seven reported Dec. 8.

The operation was a combined effort between Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 4th Iraqi Army Division, local police and troops from 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division.

Occurring in Khadisia, about eight kilometers north of Tikrit, Operation Able Rising Force was set up to locate and detain suspected terrorists. Among the 52 detainees were three terrorists wanted for IED attacks against civilians and the military.

MURDERING, BOMBING, KIDNAPPER SCUZBALLS SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

2005-12-10T15:02:00.000-06:00

Actually, only twenty years. They oughta send 'em to Texas.

December 10, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq -- Iraqi Ministry of Justice officials announced today that four members of al Qaeda in Iraq, who were members of the Mosul Bombing Cell led by Abu Talha, were found guilty by the Central Criminal Court of Iraq of violation of Article 194 of the Iraqi Penal Code for attacking Iraqi Police, Iraqi National Guard, and Coalition Forces and sentenced each of them to life (20 years) imprisonment on Nov. 23.

This successful conviction is another landmark for the Iraqi judicial system. The verdict reinforces the will of the Iraqi people that former regime members, insurgents, foreign fighters and their supporters are being held accountable and punished by a court of justice.

On May 29, Iraqi Police, Iraqi National Guard and Coalition Forces apprehended Bilal Mahmoud Abdul Hadi (aka Abu Muhommad), Abdullah Muhammed Atala Muhammed (aka Abu Muhammed), Mohammed Ben Rabit Saadam (aka Abu Amar), and Ishmail Muhammad Abdullah Bin Abdullah during a raid in the Anbar area. The defendants are foreign fighters, from Jordan, Syria and Algeria, who entered the country of Iraq illegally and committed crimes ranging from murder and terrorism to possession of illegal weapons. These detainees were captured in a house where the kidnapped Governor of Anbar was found, but he had been murdered. The defendants resisted arrest and a firefight ensued before all defendants were eventually captured.

This legal decision in conjunction with other actions currently being taken by the Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces illustrates that the sovereign Iraqi government is mustering all security, judicial and financial measures at their disposal in order to disrupt and detain insurgents, terrorists and their supporters.

HIGH VALUE SCUZBALL NABBED, BY CITIZENS

2005-12-09T16:02:00.000-06:00

Nicknamed "The Butcher", this scuzball was captured and brought to a military base by fed up Iraqi locals.

December 9, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq —The number three terrorist on the 2nd Brigade Combat Team (28th Infantry Division) High Value Individual list was detained Dec. 9 in the provincial capital of ar Ramadi.

Amir Khalaf Fanus, an al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist in the Ramadi area, was wanted for criminal activities including murder and kidnapping. Today, local Iraqi citizens brought him to an Iraqi and U.S. Forces military base in Ramadi.

Fanus, also known in Ramadi by his Iraqi moniker, “the Butcher,” was well-known for his crimes against the local populace. He is the highest ranking al Qaeda in Iraq member to be turned into Iraqi and U.S. officials by local citizens.

His capture is another indication that the local citizens tire of the terrorists’ presence within their community. Iraqi and U.S. Forces have witnessed increasing signs of citizens fighting the terrorists within Ramadi as the Dec. 15 National Elections draw nearer.

Recently, an additional 1,200 Iraqi Soldiers have recently been stationed in Ramadi. Approximately 1,100 Iraqi Special Police Commandos and a mechanized Iraqi Army company completed their planned movement into the city.

This plan has Iraqi security forces assuming more of the security responsibilities from the U.S. Forces. As in other locations, as security improves, Iraqi police will also be gradually introduced within the city.

GRUNTS HAVE BUSY, SUCCESSFUL DAY IN NORTH CENTRAL IRAQ

2005-12-09T15:52:00.000-06:00

Grunts nab 22 scuzballs, find and blow up 4 piles of guns n' ammo in 6 separate operations.

December 9, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi security forces and U.S. troops continued to make progress in the fight against terrorism in the north central region of Iraq.

Raids and patrols throughout the area resulted in 22 suspected terrorists being detained and the discovery of four weapons caches.

In an early morning raid near Ad Duluiyah, Soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 4th Iraqi Army Division captured seven suspected terrorists. The men were wanted for staging IED and mortar attacks against coalition forces in the area.

Five suspects were detained in Mansuriyah Al Jabal, a village near the city of Muqdadiyah, by Iraqi troops from 2nd Bn., 2nd Bde., 5th Div., working with U.S. Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team.

Five other suspects were taken into custody in a combined raid near Samarra by Iraqi troops from the Ministry of the Interior and Soldiers from the 3rd ID’s 1st BCT.

The biggest cache of the day was discovered by a patrol from the 1st BCT west of Balad. More than 100 hand grenades, 45 pounds of gunpowder, two pounds of plastic explosives, a preassembled IED and various other items were destroyed by an Explosives Ordnance Disposal team. Three suspected terrorists were detained at the site.

Two other caches in the same area yielded 23 mortar rounds, 300 artillery fuses, four blocks of plastic explosives, a mortar tube and a rocket-propelled grenade launcher. Both caches were destroyed by EOD teams.

A fourth cache was discovered by Soldiers from 2nd Bn., 2nd Bde., 5th Iraqi Army Div. in the village of Haroniyah near Muqdadiyah. The cache contained nine mortar rounds that had been converted into IEDs and four RPG launchers. Two men were detained in connection with the weapons.

IRAQI GIRLS SCHOOL RECEIVES NEEDED SUPPLIES

2005-12-09T15:44:00.000-06:00

Actor Gary Sinise co-founded Operation Iraqi Children in 2004.

December 9, 2005
MOSUL, IRAQ (November 29, 2005)- The Ninewa Middle School for girls in the Al-Faisaliya neighborhood in Mosul accepted school necessities from Operation Iraqi Children Nov. 29.

Teachers from the Ninewa Middle School received supplies from the 401st Civil Affairs Battalion to hand out to their children. Prearranged by the Department of Education and Mr. Mohammed S. HajRamathan, Provincial Council Chairman for Education, five classrooms with about 150 children received school supplies. Iraqi Security Forces along with the 401st Civil Affairs Battalion provided security for the delivery of the supplies. Each child in the classroom received a kit containing pencils, an eraser, folders, rulers, and other items needed to help them with their studies. The smile on their faces showed the excitement as the supplies were handed out. Spc. Joselyn Bowen, Education Team Leader, Civil Affairs stated “the kids were very excited to get the supplies, and the mission was a great success”.

Operation Iraqi Children was started to help school children and last year gave out supplies to over 2000 children.

AFGHANS DELIVER BLANKETS, CLOTHES TO DISPLACED CITIZENS

2005-12-09T15:36:00.000-06:00

Government embracing Western idea of what governments should do for its citizens.

December 8, 2005
KABUL, Afghanistan — On the surface, it appeared to be an act of good will and charity to a people who need it the most, during a season when it’s needed the most. But under the surface, much more was going on. The new government was taking vital first steps to assure its people that they will be there for them, an idea that has always been foreign here.

“Afghan people helping Afghan people is the theme,” said Army Lt. Col. Robert Roseman, of the Political Military Integration’s ministry engagement team.
With the Afghan flag design, 7,000 blankets and several boxes of clothing were distributed by the Ministry of Refugee and Repatriation on Monday to 3,000 Afghan families displaced to a village on the outskirts of Kabul.

The blankets were obtained by Roseman and his team. “Getting blankets is easy,” he said. “Engaging the ministry to store and haul and coordinate the distribution of the blankets with the refugee families is the real success here.”The ministry engagement team’s main effort is to come along side the ministry to mentor, guide and assist them in doing their job, Roseman said. “What was good about today was the ministry really took the ball and ran with it,” he said. “They planned and coordinated well, and their success is our success.”

The ministry planned with the elders of the refugees to give each family a voucher for a certain number of blankets for when they returned with the supplies. “The ministry’s effort in coordinating the logistics really paid off, and the distribution went very smoothly,” Roseman said. “We are very happy to be back in our own country,” said Malak Tourghul, the camps elder. “We are very proud of our ministry and hope to be working with them in the future.”

That’s the plan. Roseman said the ministry is preparing to help 27 different refugee camps in the Kabul area in the same way. From a strategic point of view, an endeavor like this is crucial for the stabilization and security of the country, he said.

Refugee camps typically make good recruitment camps for terrorists because they can prey on people who have been left out in the cold, literally, by their own government to get them on board with their “government.” “The Ministry of Refugee and Repatriation has taken a step in the right direction to prevent that from happening,” Roseman said.

An act of good will and charity - 3,000 refugee families will be a lot warmer this winter. But as they wrap themselves with the nation’s flag when the winter weather rolls in, hopefully they will remember it’s their country keeping them warm.

OPERATION RAMS ENDS

2005-12-07T13:07:00.000-06:00

8 scuzballs nabbed, 13 piles of guns n' ammo found and blown up.

December 7, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq — Approximately 100 Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 1st Iraqi Division and 400 Soldiers from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, wrapped up Operation Tallie (Rams) in Ramadi Dec. 7.

Operation Rams, the sixth in a series of disruption operations in Ramadi, began in the Western Sufia district of the city Dec. 4. The operation focused on neutralizing the terrorism and setting the conditions for a successful Dec. 15 election in the al Anbar provincial capital.

Altogether, Iraqi and Coalition Forces seized and destroyed 13 weapons caches and a total of six improvised explosive devices. Two of the caches were significant in size and a 1,000 pound bomb was discovered and detonated by explosive ordnance disposal technicians.

Iraqi and Coalition Forces also detained eight suspected al Qaeda in Iraq terrorists during the operation. The detainees are currently being held for questioning.

There were no reports of civilians, Iraqi Army Soldiers or U.S. Forces injured or killed as a result of the operation.

SCUZBALL SETS OFF SATCHEL BOMB IN COFFEE SHOP

2005-12-07T13:02:00.000-06:00

Three citizens, one cop killed. Nine citizens, three cops wounded.

December 7, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Police reported an explosion in a coffee shop in east Baghdad around 8:30 p.m. Dec. 6.

Initial reports indicated that a terrorist left a satchel filled with explosives in the restaurant in the Howra marketplace. The blast killed at least three civilians and one Iraqi Police officer and wounded nine other civilians and three Iraqi Police. The wounded were evacuated to al-Kindi Hospital.

Iraqi Police and Task Force Baghdad Soldiers responded to the incident, securing the site and helping to evacuate the wounded.

VERY LARGE PILE OF GUNS N' AMMO BLOWN UP NEAR TUZ

2005-12-07T12:56:00.000-06:00

Discovery comes one week after another huge pile is uncovered in nearby Kirkuk

December 7, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – Just a week after a huge cache of mortars was uncovered near the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk, another large terrorist cache was discovered Tuesday morning near the neighboring city of Tuz.

Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, found two storage bunkers crammed with weapons near Forward Operating Base Bernstein, west of the city.

More than 400 rockets of various types and 80 mortar rounds were discovered in the bunkers. Mortars and rockets, along with IEDs, are the preferred weapons of terrorist against civilian populations and military forces because they allow them to conduct attacks and then run away from the launch sites without having to face Iraqi or Coalition Forces.

Seventy cases of small arms ammunition, 100 artillery fuses, and a dozen rocket-propelled grenade warheads were also stashed in the bunkers.

An explosive ordnance disposal team was called in to inspect the weapons and conducted a controlled detonation to destroy the cache.

Another weapons cache was seized in Kirkuk Dec. 6, after police received a tip from a local resident. Rockets, mortars, tank rounds, anti-aircraft rounds and artillery fuses were taken by Soldiers from 1st BCT and an EOD team for disposal.

SCUZBALLS BLOW UP IRAQ COP ACADEMY (UPDATE)

2005-12-07T12:52:00.000-06:00

Bombers turn out to be male, wounded tally is upped to 50.

December 6, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Security Forces and Task Force Baghdad Soldiers responded to the scene of a suicide-bomb attack at an Iraqi Police academy in east Baghdad Dec. 6.

Two terrorists detonated their explosives-laden vests around 12:45 p.m., killing at least 27 Iraqi Police officers and academy students. At least 50 others were wounded, including one U.S. contractor. No U.S. military forces were wounded in the terrorist attack.

An ongoing investigation indicates the bombers, earlier reported as females, were male.

One of the suicide bombers detonated near a group of students outside a classroom. Thinking the explosion was an indirect-fire attack, Iraqi Police and students fled to a bunker for shelter where the second bomber detonated his vest. Early reports which indicated the bombers walked into a classroom proved to be erroneous.

Task Force Baghdad military police arrived on the scene to support the Iraqi Police in assessing casualties and damage. As military and police forces secured the area around the academy, the wounded were evacuated to the al Kindi Hospital.

SCUZBALLS BLOW UP IRAQ COP ACADEMY

2005-12-07T12:41:00.000-06:00

Initial reports indicate the two female scuzballs accounted for 27 dead and 32 wounded.

December 6, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq Two suicide bombers attacked an Iraqi Police academy in east Baghdad around 12:45p.m. Dec.6th.

Initial reports indicate at least 27 Iraqi Police officers and academy students were killed another 32 were wounded in the terrorist attack on the Baghdad Police Academy.

Two females, each wearing a suicide vest, walked into a classroom at he academy and detonated in the midst of students.

Task Force Baghdad military police arrived on the scene to support the Iraqi Police in assessing casualties and damage.

No U.S. forces were in the school at the time of the attack.

10 MARINES WERE KILLED BY BOOBY TRAPPED FLOUR PLANT

2005-12-07T12:35:00.000-06:00

Bomb was set off by jarheads dispersing from promotion ceremony.

December 6, 2005
On Dec. 1, 10 Marines from Company F, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, were killed and another 11 Marines injured by an improvised explosive device outside Fallujah. The Marines were inside an abandoned flour factory being used as a patrol base when the IED detonated.

The platoon swept the area for explosives and established security around the factory. On that day, the company commander traveled to the patrol base to promote three Marines. A promotion ceremony involving a group of Marines was conducted inside the patrol base. When the ceremony ended, the Marines dispersed. It is suspected that one of the Marines triggered a hidden pressure plate initiation device, causing the explosion. Explosive experts believe four artillery shells were buried in two separate locations. All Marines were wearing their protective equipment.

Initial reports that the Marines were on a foot patrol at the time of the explosion were incorrect.

U.S./IRAQI GRUNTS PREPARE COUNTRY FOR ELECTIONS

2005-12-07T12:29:00.000-06:00

Scuzballs nabbed, scuzballs killed, bombs defused, guns n' ammo blownup.

December 6, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition and Iraqi security forces continued to disrupt al Qaeda in Iraq terrorist and foreign-fighter activities during more than 450 company-level combined operations throughout the country Nov. 26 through Dec 2.

“Fifty percent of the combat operations conducted this past week throughout the Iraqi theatre of operation were combined Coalition and Iraqi security force operations, while another 21 percent were independent Iraqi security force operations,” said Maj. Brandon Robbins, operations officer, Multi-National Corps – Iraq. “The ability of the Iraqi Army forces to conduct these combined and independent operations is significant.”

Coalition and Iraqi Security forces located and cleared more than 95 caches during the week, including one of the largest caches to date in which Iraqi and U.S. forces unearthed nearly two tons of explosives outside an abandoned military base near the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk. Four truck-loads of munitions, 4, 222 mortar rounds and more than 950 fuses, were rendered safe as a result.

Additionally, combined forces cleared 160 improvised explosive devices, bringing the total number of IEDs found and cleared during the month of November to more than 650.

Combined forces detained more than 440 anti-Iraqi forces, captured or killed 31 foreign fighters and captured three bomb makers.

5 SCUZBALLS, GUNS N' AMMO NETTED IN OPERATION RAMS, SO FAR

2005-12-07T07:34:00.000-06:00

December 5, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq — Approximately 100 Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 1st Iraqi Division and 400 Soldiers from the 2/28 Brigade Combat Team, continued Operation Rams (Tallie) in Ramadi today.

Altogether, the forces have discovered four weapons caches and four improvised explosive devices during this operation. One of the caches was significant in size and contained the following items: dozens of mortar rounds, approximately 100 rocket propelled grenades and RPG launchers, approximately 150 hand grenades, anti-armor missiles and rockets, a rocket launcher, dozens of small arms weapons and AK-47s, plastic explosives, bomb-making material and body armor.

Iraqi and Coalition Forces also detained five suspected al Qaeda in Iraq terrorists during the operation. The detainees are currently being held for questioning.

Operation Rams is the sixth in a series of disruption operations conducted by the Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces in order to neutralize the terrorists and set the conditions for a successful Dec.15 election in the al Anbar provincial capital city of ar Ramadi.

There have been no reports of civilians, Iraqi Army Soldiers or U.S. Forces injured or killed as a result of the operation.

MILITARY FLIES OVER 10 MILLION POUNDS OF AID, TREATS 5000TH PATIENT IN PAK QUAKE RELIEF

2005-12-07T07:18:00.000-06:00

And it ain't over yet.

December 5, 2005
U.S. Disaster Assistance Center Pakistan – U.S. military aviation and medical units both exceeded a 5,000 milestone in the last two days here while supporting Pakistani-led earthquake relief efforts.

U.S. helicopters reached the first milestone on Dec. 3 when the total aid they have delivered topped more than 5,000 tons. The second milestone was reached by the U.S. hospital in Muzaffarabad when the 5,000th patient walked through their doors on Dec.4.

Approximately 300 U.S. Army soldiers and 16 CH-47 Chinook helicopters comprise Task Force Eagle which took over the aviation mission of delivering relief aid here on Nov. 4 from a previous task force that returned to Afghanistan. The U.S. began flying humanitarian aid on Oct. 11 - three days after the 7.6 magnitude earthquake devastated the Kashmir and Northwest Frontier Provinces.

The 212th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital is manned by approximately 200 U.S. Army soldiers and began seeing patients on Oct. 25. The facility is capable of performing simultaneous surgeries and has a capacity of 24 intensive care unit beds with 60 additional beds for patients needing less in-patient monitoring.

Task Force Eagle and the 212th MASH make up a portion of the nearly 1,000 U.S. military members assigned to the Disaster Assistance Center Pakistan to provide aviation, medical and engineering support to the Government of Pakistan.

OPERATION RAMS BEGINS IN RAMADI PROVINCE

2005-12-07T07:11:00.000-06:00

The sixth in a series of scuzball disruption operations will concentrate on the city of Al Anbar.

December 5, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq — Approximately 100 Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 1st Iraqi Division and 400 Soldiers from the 2/28 Brigade Combat Team, launched Operation Rams (Tallie) in Ramadi Dec. 4.

Operation Rams is the sixth in a series of disruption operations conducted by the Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces in order to neutralize the insurgency and set the conditions for a successful Dec.15 election in the Al Anbar provincial capital city of Ar Ramadi.

As a result of the recent operations, insurgent attacks against Iraqi civilians and both Iraqi and U.S. Forces in the Ramadi area have decreased. The operations targeted areas where semi-autonomous, al Qaeda in Iraq-led insurgent cells are known to operate. The operations have resulted in the detention of dozens of insurgent cell members and the discovery and subsequent destruction of multiple weapons caches. Unlike recent combat operations in the formerly-held terrorist strongholds of Western Al Anbar, Iraqi and U.S. Forces have met with limited and uncoordinated resistance in Ramadi.
Weblog LINK

24 SCUZBALLS TAKEN OFF STREETS OF BAGHDAD

2005-12-06T23:01:00.000-06:00

Citizen tips ignite several raids to nab miscreants.

December 5, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Launching operations based on tips from Iraqi citizens and intelligence developed over time, Task Force Baghdad Soldiers captured 24 terror suspects in the Al Rasheed district during a 12-hour period Dec. 3-4.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment conducted three cordon and searches and captured a total of nine individuals. A Company, 1st Bn., 184th Inf. detained six individuals in eastern Rasheed Dec. 3 around 11:35 p.m. One of the detainees was a known member of an al Qaeda bomb-making cell and another individual is suspected of running safe houses used to smuggle terrorists into Baghdad.

Three hours later, another element from 1/184 detained a targeted individual in Abu Dischir and another two at daybreak in Dora.

A tipster alerted Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment on the trail of terror suspects operating in western Rasheed. They conducted a hasty cordon and search and captured two individuals before midnight on Dec. 3.

At about 2:30 a.m., 3/7 Inf. Soldiers conducted another cordon and search in Jihad and captured three individuals.

The battalion also detained another individual in Jihad the night before.

“The operation last night was a huge victory for the locals in Jihad,” said 1st Lt. Reeon Brown, a platoon leader from A Co., 3/7 Inf. who led one of last night’s operations. “This man has spent months killing innocent Iraqis and Iraqi Security Forces. Now he is off the street thanks to the bravery of one local man. I want to thank him and let the Iraqi people know that they are the most powerful weapons in the fight against terrorists.”

Farther south in the rural areas of Baghdad, Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment was also rounding up terror suspects.

A unit conducting a cordon and search at 1 a.m. on Dec. 4 captured nine individuals.

All of the suspects were taken to military facilities for further questioning. Weblog LINK

2 PILES OF GUNS N' AMMO FOUND, BLOWN UP

2005-12-06T22:58:00.000-06:00

The scuzballs won't be using these.

December 5, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Soldiers from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division discovered two significant weapons caches Dec. 2, adding them to the growing list of terrorist stockpiles they’ve found in south Baghdad.

The Soldiers of A Troop, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment conducted a routine cordon and search of houses in a village, leading to the discovery of a small weapons cache that led the troops to a larger find upon further exploration of the site.

After discovering two 82-millimeter rockets, one 60-millimeter mortar tube, two 60-millimeter mortar rounds and one small-arms tripod, an explosive ordnance disposal team was called to the site to assess the cache.

While EOD was en route to the area, A Troop Soldiers continued to secure the site and search the surrounding roads and fields for more weapons caches. They found an additional site with multiple explosives, munitions and other suspicious materials. Weblog LINK

AFGHANISTAN: COPTER HARD LANDINGS CAUSED BY ENEMY FIRE

2005-12-05T16:20:00.000-06:00

December 5, 2005
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Initial indications reveal that enemy fire caused two CH-47 Chinook helicopters involved in offensive operations in southern Afghanistan to make hard landings Sunday.
One of the helicopters had to make an immediate controlled landing. The other aircraft was able to return to a nearby forward operating base.
All of the soldiers injured have been treated and released.
An investigation of both incidents is continuing. Weblog LINK

3 U.S. GRUNTS HURT BY BOMB NEAR DEH CHOPAN

2005-12-05T16:18:00.000-06:00

December 5, 2005
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Three U.S. soldiers were injured yesterday when an improvised explosive device detonated as their convoy conducted combat operations southwest of Deh Chopan.

The injured soldiers are being treated at Kandahar Airfield and are in stable condition. Weblog LINK

AFGHANISTAN: 6 INJURED IN EMERGENCY COPTER LANDINGS

2005-12-04T11:36:00.000-06:00

Cause is not yet known.

December 4, 2005
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Two U.S. CH-47 Chinook helicopters made emergency landings today in separate locations in southern Afghanistan resulting in the injury of five U.S. soldiers and one Afghan National Army soldier.

In the first incident, an emergency landing at a Forward Operating Base south of Tarin Kowt occurred with one Afghan National Army soldier injured and evacuated to a nearby U.S. military treatment facility. He is listed in stable condition.

The second incident, in which five U.S. soldiers were injured, occurred north of Kandahar and resulted in severe damage to the aircraft. The injured were evacuated to a nearby U.S. medical facility for treatment, and all are reported in stable condition. None of the injuries were reported as serious.

Afghan and U.S. forces are conducting recovery operations.

Both aircraft were involved in combat operations against enemy forces in southern Afghanistan.

The causes of the incidents are under investigation. Weblog LINK

AFGHANIS BURY 2 COPS LOST TO THE SCUZBALLS

2005-12-04T11:30:00.000-06:00

Vow to never give in.

JALALABAD, Afghanistan — The lives of two slain members of the Afghan National Police were celebrated in a memorial ceremony in Jalalabad Nov. 7. Gen. Gul Agha Shirzai, the Nangarhar Province governor, honored the bravery of the men and vowed that violence will not deter the efforts of the ANP to bring lasting peace and security to Afghanistan .

Capt. Shair Ahmad, the security assistant in-charge for the ANP’s Jalalabad Regional Training Center , and Maj. Dad Mohammad, an ANP basic course instructor, were killed in an Oct. 25 ambush while transporting policemen to the RTC. Their attackers fled the scene and remain at large.

“This will not stop us,” Shirzai said to a round of applause from those gathered. “We will never be slaves (to criminals).”

More than 225 fellow officers, friends and family, as well as representatives from the international community, attended the service at the governor’s palace in Nangarhar.

Shirzai spoke of the bravery of policemen on duty every day, striving to make the Afghan people more secure. “We are lions and tigers,” he said, “and the people who attacked are cowards. They should come out and fight.”

The governor presented gold medals to the eldest sons of the victims, and Gen. Ali Khan Ahmadzai, ANP senior training official, presented each a condolence check for 50,000 Afghani — more than each officer’s annual salary — to help support their families.

The RTC in Jalalabad is the central training facility for new policemen in Nangarhar Province . Although all instructors and students at the facility are Afghan, U.S. contractors from DynCorp International serve as mentors to assist instructors in various areas of police training.

Ron Guyton, the DynCorp regional commander, announced on behalf of the RTC that a set of two barracks buildings would be named after each of the men. “In the future as young police officers come through the new academy that is being built, they will not forget the sacrifice and leadership of these brave men,” he said.

Ray Fitzgerald, director of the Office of Security Cooperation–Afghanistan’s Police Reform Directorate, also spoke at the ceremony. “These men performed their duty and gave their lives so that all Afghans might feel safer and more secure in their homes with their families,” he said. Weblog LINK

OPERATION SHANK CONTINUES

2005-12-03T08:51:00.000-06:00

Shank and its brother operations decreased scuzball activity by 60 percent in Ramidi last month.

December 2, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq — Operation Harba (Shank) is the fifth in a series of operations by the Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces conducting combined clearing operations to disrupt the insurgency and set the conditions for a successful Dec. 15 election in the al Anbar provincial capital of ar Ramadi.

Iraqi Army Soldiers and U.S. Forces began the operation in the early morning hours by conducting targeted raids on suspected terrorist safe houses in central Ramadi resulting in the discovery of bomb making material.

Operation Shank follows four previous disruption operations which began Nov. 16 in the al Anbar provincial capital. The purpose of the operation is to disrupt a terrorist group that utilizes an area of Ramadi as its base for attacks on local Ramadi citizens, the Iraqi and U.S. military.

Approximately 200 Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Brigade, 7th Division and 300 Marines from 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, assigned to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, are taking part in Operation Shank.

The operation was carefully planned by using information and intelligence gathered by Iraqi and U.S. Forces operating in the city on a daily basis. There is no correlation between Operation Shank and the erroneous reports which were circulated by a terrorist propagandist.

Due to operations in and around Ramadi and in Western al Anbar, attacks by al Qaeda in Iraq-led terrorists have decreased 60 percent in Ramadi in the last month.

More information on the operation will be released as it becomes available. Weblog LINK

PAK QUAKE RELIEF SUMMARY

2005-12-03T08:49:00.000-06:00

December 2, 2005
SOUTHWEST ASIA — The U.S. Air Force continued to support Pakistan-led earthquake recovery operations by airlifting much-needed supplies into the devastated region November 25- December 2.

Three U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules, two C-17 Globemasters, and one contracted B-747 flew in more than 280,000 pounds of medical supplies and equipment, clothing and construction and runway materials in response to requests from Pakistan’s government.

To date, the U.S. Air Force has airlifted nearly 10 million pounds of relief supplies on 1,806 pallets to Pakistan using 40 C-17 Globemasters, 39 C-130 Hercules and 51 various contracted aircraft.

Our Airmen remain ready, capable and on call to support the people of Pakistan and simultaneously to sustain ongoing combat operations anywhere in the world. Weblog LINK

IRAQI AIR FORCE FLIES TO AL MATHUNA, MARKS MAJOR MILESTONE

2005-12-03T08:12:00.000-06:00

Fledgling organization's solo jaunt is the first of many.

December 2, 2005
BAGHDAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, Iraq – An all Iraqi aircrew flew their first solo mission aboard a C-130E from Ali Air Base to New Al Muthana Nov. 28.

The nine aircrew members are part the 23rd Iraqi Squadron, which have been receiving training at Ali AB. They performed an engine running on-load prior to returning to Ali AB.

“The flight marked a major milestone achievement by showing Iraq’s capability of providing its own military transport,” said Air Force Capt. Jerry Ruiz, Forward Operations executive officer at New Al Muthana.

New Al Muthana is the only Iraqi Air Base in the country and will be home to three C-130E aircraft. The 23rd IS will move to their new home here in January.
Weblog LINK

OPERATION SHANK BEGINS IN RAMADI

2005-12-03T08:08:00.000-06:00

Shank is number five in a series of operations to disrupt scuzball plans and prepare for a successful Dec. 15 election in Ar Ramadi.

December 2, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq — Approximately 200 Iraqi Army soldiers from 1st Brigade, 7th Division and 300 Marines from 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, assigned to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, launched Operation Harba (Shank) today in Ar Ramadi.

Operation Shank is the fifth in a series of operations by the Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces conducting combined clearing operations to disrupt the insurgency and set the conditions for a successful Dec. 15 election in the Al Anbar provincial capital of Ar Ramadi.

The purpose of the operation is to disrupt a terrorist group that utilizes an area of Ramadi as its base for attacks on local Ramadi citizens, Iraqi and U.S. military.

Since Nov. 16, Iraqi and U.S. Forces actions resulted in numerous terrorists killed or detained, to include Imad Salih Al-Fahdawi, a known terrorist involved in attacks against government officials and imams; and Khamis Manfi Hammud Al Klaibawi, a truck driver responsible for placing roadside bombs on the streets of Ramadi.

Additionally, Operations Panthers, Bruins, Lions and Tigers were successful in discovering numerous weapons caches, which collectively contained surface- to-air missiles, rocket-propelled grenades, rockets, mortar and artillery rounds, hand grenades, landmines, small arms and ammunition, and bomb-making equipment. Weblog LINK

IRON HAMMER: OPERATION CONTINUES TO GRIND SCUZBALLS INTO THE DUST

2005-12-01T16:28:00.000-06:00

December 1, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq —Operation Matraqa Hadidia (Iron Hammer) is progressing with the clearing of the Hai al Becker region on the eastern side of the Euphrates River across from Hit and approximately 170 km west of Baghdad.

Approximately 500 Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 7th Iraqi Army Division and 1,500 Marines and Sailors from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit along with 500 Soldiers from 2nd Battalion-114th Field Artillery Regiment are participating in Iron Hammer.

The Hai al Becker region is suspected to be an al-Qaeda in Iraq safe area and base of operations for the manufacture of vehicle car bombs and roadside bombs. During Operation Saif (Sword) the bridges across the Euphrates River from Hit into the Hai al Becker were disabled to vehicle traffic. These strikes prevented terrorists in Hit from fleeing across the river into the Hai al Becker region.

Today, Iraqi and U.S. Forces used specialized explosive charges to clear paths through routes suspected to be seeded with roadside bombs. Secondary explosions caused by hidden mines or bombs were observed. One antipersonnel mine was also discovered during the clearing.

The Iraqi commander from 2nd Brigade, 7th Iraqi Army Division and a local sheikh addressed a group of citizens. The commander and sheikh explained the purpose of the operation and addressed their concerns.

There are no reports of Iraqi Army or U.S. Forces casualties. Weblog LINK

IRAQIS TAKE CONTROL OF BORDERS

2005-12-01T16:22:00.000-06:00

Another step taken toward the goal Iraqi sovereignty, democracy and stand alone-ism.

December 1, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – A ceremony was held Nov. 30 in western Iraq symbolizing the securing of the borders through cooperation of the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of the Interior and Multi-National Force Iraq.

The ceremony in the Iraqi-Syrian border town of Husaybah was attended by Iraqi Minister of Defense Saadoun al-Dulaimi, Brig. Gen. Ahmed Ali Muhsin al-Khafaggi, Deputy Minister of the Interior for Support Forces and Gen. George Casey, MNF-I commander.

“This is a historic day for Iraq,” said al-Dulaimi. “I won’t forget this day. The insurgents are no longer controlling the border. Our friends have helped us. We are now a country of freedom, of human rights, and of peace.”

Controlling the borders is the key to Iraqi sovereignty and necessary to defeat the terrorists and foreign fighters who attempt to harm Iraqis and wish to disrupt Iraq’s path to democracy.

Developing capable border forces will significantly disrupt entry for terrorists and foreign fighters and integrate with provincial counterinsurgency efforts. This began with Iraqi forces reestablishing initial control of Iraq’s borders Nov. 30 with limited Coalition Forces support and continues until Iraqi forces control all ports of entry and provide their own security support. Weblog LINK

GRUNTS FIND GUNS N' AMMO, SCUZBALLS ON ISLAND

2005-12-01T16:14:00.000-06:00

Euphrates river island, southwest of Baghdad, yields large stash of GNA.

November 30, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Task Force Baghdad Soldiers found multiple weapons caches on an island in the Euphrates River Nov. 28.

Military officials had been monitoring suspicious activity near the Euphrates River southwest of Baghdad for a couple of weeks. When conditions were right, Soldiers from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division were ready to spring into action.

Soldiers from 2/101st’s 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment secured the objective and discovered three significant weapons caches.

Soldiers also searched surrounding homes and facilities, detaining two suspected terrorists.

In total, the Soldiers uncovered 11 500-pound bomb shells, C4 explosives, welding equipment, mortar rounds, miscellaneous bomb-making material, 57 mm rockets, 40 bags of fertilizer, 12 directional charges, five 155 mm rounds, 100 feet of detonation cord, three rocket-propelled grenades, eight bags of 20 mm rounds and other munitions and explosives.

An explosive ordnance disposal team was called to the site to conduct a controlled detonation of the caches. Weblog LINK

IRAQI 2ND ARMY GRUNTS SET TO TAKE OVER BABIL PROVINCE

2005-12-01T16:03:00.000-06:00

Iraq 2nd Army made it's bones during the October 15, 2005 referendum operation.

November 30, 2005
AL HILLAH, Iraq -- On Nov. 29 the 2nd Iraqi Army Brigade from al Hillah successfully accomplished its certification process. From Nov. 24 – 27, military instructors from Multi-National Division Central-South tested the combat readiness of 2nd Brigade Headquarters and subunits.

The exam confirmed that the 2nd Brigade is ready to plan and conduct military activities independently. It opens the way to hand over the responsibility for a safe and secure environment in Babil Province from Coalition Forces to Iraqi Army units.

From now on 2nd Brigade will plan and conduct independent operations within its area of responsibility. MNDCS support will be given only in emergency situations by providing a quick reaction force, MEDEVAC or air support. However, MNDCS military advisors and trainers will still monitor 2nd Brigade activities.

The 2nd Brigade certification is a two stage process of IA training within MNDCS AOR. After battalion level certification had been achieved in mid-July, the higher brigade level has now also been accomplished.

The 2nd Brigade consists of two battalions located in different places within Babil province. It numbers about 1,800 Soldiers equipped in light armored vehicles with a variety of weapons.

The brigade has taken part in five combat operations so far. They were executed in cooperation with Coalition Forces. During these operations, 2nd Brigade Soldiers searched hundreds of vehicles, persons and buildings. Ninety different illegal weapons and a large amount of ammunition have been seized as result. Also many persons suspected of terrorism have been detained. The most significant success of 2nd Brigade was the referendum operation. The brigade established 41 checkpoints and 12 mobile patrols effectively preventing any attacks on Nov. 15. Weblog LINK

OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM COALITION CONFERENCE IN ALBANIA

2005-12-01T16:00:00.000-06:00

“Maintaining Post-Election Momentum”

November 30, 2005
Tirana, ALBANIA-On November 29-30, the Albanian Ministry of Defense hosted representatives from 34 countries for a United States Central Command coalition member conference. The purpose of the conference was to address the strategy for supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom for 2006 and lay out future requirements.

The conference was attended by senior Coalition representatives, including General John P. Abizaid, Commander U.S. Central Command and General George W. Casey, Jr., Commander of the Multi-National Force-Iraq.

“The momentum from the January elections and Iraq’s successful Constitutional Referendum are both extraordinary and irreversible,” according to Casey. “But the work of the Multi-National-Force partners and the Iraqi Transitional Government is not complete. A continued commitment by the Coalition to Iraq is essential to sustain and expand this success.”

Although attendees could not commit to specific requirements at the conference, coalition representatives will take this information back to their governments for consideration.

Also addressing the conference were Fatmir Mediu, Albania Minister of Defense, and Lt.Gen. Pellumb Qazimi, Chief of General Staff, Albanian Armed Forces.

According to Minister Mediu, the presentations during the conference clearly demonstrate the progress made in Iraq. “…we need to share the same belief that Iraq is heading toward democracy and that the Iraqis are not left alone in their progress.”

This was the second annual conference to highlight the Coalition/Iraqi progress and identify requirements for continued success. Last year’s conference was held in Romania. Weblog LINK

MOTHER LODE OF GUNS N' AMMO FOUND IN KIRKUK

2005-12-01T15:51:00.000-06:00

Weapons mine still producing after one week of constant digging. Site geology indicates several rich GNA veins nearby.

November 30, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi and U.S. forces have removed more than 4,200 mortar rounds from a major weapons cache found outside of an abandoned military base near the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk Sunday.

The buried rounds were discovered by Iraqi Soldiers Sunday morning. The Soldiers removed about 800 mortar rounds before realizing that the cache was much larger than they originally thought. U.S. Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team were called in to help excavate the munitions and secure the area.

The ammunition was buried under concrete blocks with dirt mounded on top. All of the ammunition removed so far has come from one mound located in a field full of similar mounds. The explosives ordnance disposal team at the site expects to find more rounds as the search expands throughout the field.

“It was a good find,” said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Wayne, the EOD team chief at the site. “I’m glad we found it over someone else. All those rounds are potential IEDs. We just stopped that many more IEDs.”

The rounds will be destroyed in a controlled detonation. Weblog LINK

MNDCS GRUNTS COMPLETE PROJECTS IN AD DIWANIYAH

2005-12-01T15:45:00.000-06:00

Polish soldiers bring sewage service, electricity and new roads to Iraqi village.

November 30, 2005
CAMP ECHO, Iraq – Multinational Division Central-South Soldiers completed three civil-military cooperation projects this week in the Diwaniyah province.

In al Shamiyah, 30 kilometers south of ad Diwaniyah, MNDCS soldiers provided a new sewage system for 60 houses. The new system will improve the problem of flooding during the rainy season.

Another project involved upgrading the central fuel station with a 500 kilowatt generator to improve the efficiency of the station.

The third project completed this week was a new 3.5 kilometer road built in the northern part of al Diwaniya city.

All three projects were prepared by Polish Soldiers.

From the beginning of its mission in Iraq MNDCS materialized more than 2,100 projects, including water-purification facilities, electrical power stations, educational infrastructure, medical facilities and administrative buildings. More than 300 of these projects are in the Diwaniyah province. Weblog LINK

IRAQI, U.S. GRUNTS NAB 33 SCUZBALLS

2005-11-30T10:04:00.000-06:00

Operation Thunder Blitz is one of many aimed at clearing scuzballs from southern Baghdad.

November 30, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Task Force Baghdad Soldiers teamed up with Iraqi security forces to conduct Operation Thunder Blitz in southern Baghdad Nov. 29, resulting in the capture of 33 terror suspects.

Moving rapidly into the area, hundreds of U.S. Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment and Iraqi forces from the 1st Battalion, 2nd Commando Brigade (Wolf Battalion) took the enemy by surprise by securing seven different objective areas along the Tigris River.

Operation Thunder Blitz focused on removing weapons and terrorists from the streets prior to the Dec. 15 elections. Weblog LINK

IRAQI, U.S. GRUNTS/JARHAEDS BEGIN OPERATION IRON HAMMER

2005-11-30T09:48:00.000-06:00

Iron Hammer aims to clear scuzballs from eastern side of Euphrates river near Hit.

November 30, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq — Iraqi Army Soldiers and U.S. Marines, Sailors and Soldiers began operations near Hit in the Hai Al Becker region.

The aim of the operation is to clear the region of al Qaeda and Iraq-led terrorists and establish a secure environment for the upcoming National Elections, Dec. 15.

Approximately 500 Iraqi Army soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 7th Iraqi Army Division and 1,500 Marines and Sailors from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit along with 500 Soldiers from 2nd Battalion-114th Field Artillery Regiment are conducting Operation Matraqa Hadidia (Iron Hammer) east of Hit, approximately 170 km from Baghdad.

The Hai Al Becker region is suspected to be an al Qaeda in Iraq safe area and base of operations for the manufacture of vehicle car bombs, roadside bombs. It is also believed to be a stopping point for terrorists as they transit the ‘rat lines’ down the Euphrates River from Syria into the interior of Iraq.

In early July, Iraqi and U.S. Forces established long-term security presence in the city of Hit during Operation Saif (Sword). During Saif, few terrorists were located; however, a score of weapons caches have been discovered in the region.

Operation Iron Hammer will clear the area on the eastern side of the Euphrates River, an area not typically patrolled by Iraqi and U.S. Forces.

Routine updates concerning Operation Iron Hammer will be provided as additional information becomes available. Weblog LINK

GRUNTS FIND 66 PILES OF GUNS N' AMMO THIS WEEK

2005-11-30T09:35:00.000-06:00

Found and destroyed from Fallujah to al Qa’im.

November 29, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Iraq —Iraqi Army Soldiers and U.S. Marines, Soldiers and Sailors of the 2nd Marine Division, discovered 66 weapons caches during the past week in al Anbar.

Blocks of plastic explosives, sticks of TNT, artillery and mortar rounds used in vehicle and roadside bombs along with remote detonators were found by Iraqi and U.S. Forces. Machine guns, assault and sniper rifles, rocket-propelled grenades and the munitions were also discovered.

Last Sunday, in Haqlaniyah, Iraqi Soldiers and Marines excavated more than 8,800 heavy machine gun rounds along with 150 artillery, mortar and tank rounds. Information gained from local citizens indicated that the cache was buried approximately one month ago by three carloads of terrorists working through the night.

Yesterday near Habbaniyah, four complete mortar systems, including their aiming sites and instruction manuals were found. At the same location, more than a dozen remote detonators for roadside bombs were also found. Thirteen men were detained at the site for further questioning.

Caches were found and destroyed from Fallujah to al Qa’im. Many of these weapons and explosive cache sites were located after receiving information from local citizens. Local citizens frequently speak to a passing patrol or by call local tips lines, while others cache sites are found during the course of clearing operations. Weblog LINK

IRAQI, COALITION GRUNTS CONTINUE FIGHT AGAINST SCUZBALLISM

2005-11-30T08:14:00.000-06:00

Round up of successful anti-scuzball operations.

MOSUL, IRAQ (November 28, 2005)
Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 50 suspected terrorists, killed seven, and seized multiple weapons caches during operations in northern Iraq Nov. 19-26.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division along with Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity while conducting joint operations east of Tal Afar Nov. 20-25.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 2nd Brigade along side Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd ACR detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapons cache during operations in Tal Afar Nov. 20.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Brigade along side Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 3rd ACR detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations near the Syrian border Nov. 20.

The Iraqi Police, with assistance from Soldiers Stryker Brigade Combat Team soldiers killed seven terrorists during a raid in Mosul Nov. 20.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Division detained one individual suspected of terrorist activities during operations east of Mosul Nov. 22.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division along with 2nd Squadron, 3rd ACR detained one individual during operations Nov. 23. in Tal Afar.

Iraqi Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 2nd Brigade in conjunction with 2nd Squadron, 3rd ACR detained two individuals Nov. 25 while conducting joint operations in Tal Afar.

Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade 3rd Division detained one individual during a successful cordon and search in Tal Afar Nov. 23. Seized in the operation were a rifle and RPK rounds.

Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 3rd ACR detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations near the Syrian border and seized a weapons cache consisting of 86 122mm rounds in Tal Afar Nov. 19-23.

Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd ACR detained four individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapons cache during operations near the Syrian Boarder Nov. 21.

Soldiers from the172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Mosul Nov. 20-21.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity in a successful raid in western Mosul. During the operation, Soldiers confiscated 30 boxes of explosive material, a timing device and a bundle of wire. Soldiers of 1-17 Infantry detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search of a residence in western Mosul Nov.22. Soldiers from the 65th Military Police Battalion detained one individual and seized a weapons cache consisting of rockets, mortars, and grenades in Mosul Nov. 24. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained 11 individuals while conducting operations Nov. 25 in Mosul. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment detained seven individuals while conducting operations in Mosul Nov. 25. Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations Nov. 24, east of Mosul.

Iraqi Soldiers from 3rd Division detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity during a search Nov. 22. Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained 15 individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapons cache during operations in Tal Afar Nov. 19-21.

Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd ACR detained one individual and seized a weapons cache during operations in Tal Afar Nov. 21.

Soldiers of 113th Engineer Battalion discovered an ordnance cache consisting of a number of mortar rounds in Der Umtutha 23 Nov. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion 180th Field Artillery detained two individuals attempting to enter FOB Marez under false pretenses Nov. 22.

Soldiers from 2nd Squadron 3rd Armed Cavalry Regiment detained two individuals for questioning after they were pointed out by informants in Tal Afar Nov. 26. 1st Squadron 3rd ACR Soldiers detained five individuals at a traffic control point Nov. 26. The individuals were turned over to Iraqi Police.

Iraqi Security Forces supported by Multi-National forces continue successful operations aimed at defeating terrorists in an effort to provide safety and security to the citizens of the region.

Anyone with information on anti-Iraqi-insurgent activities should call the Joint Coordination Center’s telephone numbers at 513462 or 0770163300
Weblog LINK

GRUNTS TAKE GUNS N' AMMO, NAB 4 SCUZBALLS

2005-11-30T08:08:00.000-06:00

Patrol discovers smorgasbord of guns n' ammo. See bottom paragraph for list.

November 28, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — A routine patrol yielded significant results Nov. 27 when Task Force Baghdad Soldiers discovered terrorists’ weapons and bomb-making materials and detained four suspects in the Abu Ghraib district of west Baghdad.

Soldiers from B Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment were traveling through an area known for attacks with improvised explosive devices when they saw something suspicious in a chicken coop behind a farmhouse.

They discovered what first appeared to be unexploded ordnance buried in the ground but slightly exposed on the surface. Explosive experts were called in and they destroyed the ordnance, but the explosion uncovered a large supply of weapon systems.

This is the 29th cache discovered by B Troop since May.

The Soldiers found 19 rocket-propelled grenades, 16 82 mm mortar rounds, seven rifle grenades, six anti-tank mines, five rocket launchers, three rockets, three AK-47 assault rifles with 12 magazines, two hand grenades, two sniper rifles, two 130 mm artillery rounds, a pipe bomb, one mortar tube, one RPK rifle, a 9 mm pistol, one 50-caliber machine gun, 20 primers, 20 SKS magazines, and 10 pounds of various ammunition. Weblog LINK

STRIKE GROUP 8 GOES THROUGH SUEZ CANAL

2005-11-30T08:02:00.000-06:00

Will deny use of the sea to scuzball operations.

November 28, 2005
ABOARD USS NASSAU – (Nov. 28, 2005) Expeditionary Strike Group 8 (ESG-8) passed through the Suez Canal Nov. 26, entering the 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO) to conduct maritime security operations (MSO) and support further tasking from the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

ESG-8 left Norfolk, Va., Nov. 7 for a scheduled six-month deployment.

“We are finally to the AOR that we have been training to get to in our deployment in support of maritime security operations,” said Capt. Martin Allard, Commander, Nassau Strike Group. “Our initial mission is to support the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), and we will conduct other maritime security operations as assigned by CENTCOM.”

ESG-8 will fully support MSO while operating in the 5th Fleet AOO. MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material.

Using a supported-supporting relationship between the Navy and Marine Commanders, the ESG composition adds to the combat proven amphibious and Marine Expeditionary Unit capabilities with increased defenses, strike, power projection, and a range of unique combined capabilities. These capabilities provide the combat commander a wide variety of options and enables sustained independent operations in dynamic environments.

“We are well-prepared for any mission assigned to us by CENTCOM,” said Capt. Allard.

As the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), the flagship for Expeditionary Strike Group 8, passed through the Suez Canal, some Sailors and Marines were topside to observe the landscape.

“This is a very cool experience that I know many people would like to have the opportunity to see,” said Storekeeper Seaman Jason Aristizabal, aboard Nassau. “This is my third time through and I am just looking to see if I recognize anything from last time. It does look a little bit different.”

ESG-8 includes 6,000 Sailors and Marines aboard six ships. In addition to the Nassau, the strike group includes the guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71), the amphibious transport dock USS Austin (LPD 4), the dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston Churchill (DDG 81) and the attack submarine USS Norfolk (SSN 714). The 22nd MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships, is composed of its command element, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines; Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 261 (Reinforced), and the MEU Service Support Group 22. Weblog LINK

HUGE PILE OF GUNS N' AMMO FOUND NEAR KIRKUK

2005-11-30T07:56:00.000-06:00

As much as been normally uncovered in two months.

November 28, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – U.S. Soldiers discovered more than 2,700 mortar rounds near an abandoned Iraqi Army base south of Kirkuk Sunday morning.

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division’s 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, and explosive ordnance disposal experts began the task of unearthing the weapons from a mound located in a field full of similar mounds. Iraqi and U.S. forces are securing the site and preparing to excavate the remaining mounds in search of additional weapons.

This cache alone has yielded as much explosive material as gathered in the brigade’s area over the past two months, according to the EOD team at the site.

Weapons and explosives seized by Iraqi and U.S. forces are normally moved to a secure location and disposed of through controlled detonations in order to keep them from being used against local citizens and coalition forces.

Weblog LINK

GUNS N' AMMO FOUND BY OPERATION TIGERS

2005-11-30T07:52:00.000-06:00

November 27, 2005
AR RAMADI, Iraq – Early morning efforts of Operation Numur (Tigers) by Soldiers of the Iraqi Army and Task Force 2-69, U.S. Army, have netted several caches, including two that were found along a railroad track used by local citizens.

The caches found consisted of numerous artillery and mortar rounds, rocket-propelled grenades, high explosives, small arms weapons, small arms ammunition, bulletproof vests and bomb making equipment.

The Iraqi Army spearheaded the operation by providing security, identifying cache sites and gathering important information through their interaction with the local citizens.

“These actions prove the Iraqi Army is truly making very rapid advances. With time, we will be able to secure all of Ramadi and remove all of the hidden enemy weapons cache points,” said Lt. Col. Abdul Majeed, commander of the 3-2-1 Iraqi Army.

Additionally, several suspected insurgents, to include Imad Salih Al-Fahdawi, a known insurgent linked to the Abu Khattab-al Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) terrorist cell, were detained during the operation. Imad Salih was involved in attacks against government officials and imams.

Insurgents linked to the al Qaeda in Iraq cell which is a part of the Abu Musab Zarqawi network in Ramadi have vowed to prevent the local citizens from participating in the up-coming Dec. 15 elections.

Operation Tigers is the fourth in a series of offensive operations which have been executed by the Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team (from the 28th Infantry Division) assigned to 2nd Marine Division.

Operation Tigers consists of approximately 150 Iraqi Army Soldiers and 400 Coalition Forces. Weblog LINK

A GRUNT'S LETTER FROM IRAQ

2005-11-30T07:20:00.000-06:00

This came across our desk today. It is not an official Centcom news release.

Sent: Sunday, November 20, 2005 1:34 PM

Subject: Update from Iraq...

Hello everyone,

Here is todays journal entry, un-edited. Copied exactly as I wrote it.

20Nov05 -
I was in Mosul today. There was Major I (my team leader), Brian (one of my young Sergeants), Zack (our interpretor) and myself. We were at a coalition base, we were finished with our business for the day, and had some time to relax before our convoy departed for the return trip. Our terp suggested that we have some chai (tea) at the Turkish restaurant that is on the base. This restaurant sits next to the airfield, right next to the flight line where passengers board aircraft of all kinds for flights to various locations.

As we sat there, I noticed that there were a large number of ODA guys (SF guys…easily identifiable by there trademark customized uniforms, custom weapons and usually beards) gathering around. Then I realized what was happening. Over the previous 18 hours I had heard several accounts of this story. This is what I have pieced together:

Yesterday in Mosul, two American soldiers were killed in action while fighting terrorists. One was a Special Forces guy, and the other was an Infantry soldier from the Stryker Brigade in Mosul. The story is that the Iraqi Army had taken some sniper fire from a house while out on a patrol. A quick reaction force was assembled, consisting of SF, IA and some infantry guys. As they stormed the house that the fire was coming from it suddenly exploded. Apparently there was a vehicle borne IED parked in the garage of the home, and it was detonated as the Coalition Forces entered the home. The whole house exploded…then caved in on the soldiers in the home. One American soldier died instantly, and another died of his wounds later. An IA soldier was killed and several terrorists (I had heard 7 terrorists).

So as we sat there on the patio of this Turkish restaurant, this scene was slowly starting to develop. It was a very somber, yet proud moment. The crowd of SF guys was steadily growing. Over 20-30 mins, they grew in numbers. I think all of us knew what was about to happen, but none of us stood up to leave. Instead, we sat there for 2 hours waiting for the moment.

Two blackhawks land, offload a few passengers and some gear. They load a few new passengers, then are off again.

A C-130 landed, off-loaded a few passengers and some cargo. The crew chiefs swept the plane out. Got all their gear stowed. Basically cleared the deck of the plane.

SF guys still coming, there must be about 200 of them by now. There is a guy carrying some draped colors.

Two more blackhawks land, actually looks like the same ones from before. I recognize the crew chiefs. But this time, they don’t offload anyone, or load anyone. They park and kill their engines.

Again, all of us know what is about to happen. Yet, none of us move, we sit quietly sipping our chai. There are quite a few people on the patio now, all the chairs are full around us. I think they are waiting for the same thing we are.

Finally it all starts to happen. Approx 300-400 soldiers head out toward the back of the waiting C-130. They quietly line up in two lines, facing each other off the back of the plane. Then an Army 5-ton truck drives slowly onto the tarmac, backs into place at the end of the waiting line of soldiers. As the 5-ton gets into position, two groups of soldiers of about 12 soldiers each march toward the truck. The second group is moving very slowly, and moving kinda funny. Then I remember a detail I had heard, that quite a few US soldiers had been injured in the incident. The second group is full of injured soldiers, some limping, others just moving like they are in obvious pain, and one guy on crutches. I am thinking these are these guys teammates, that were on the raid with him when they died.

Everyone on the patio is standing now. Everyone in sight of the tarmac is stopped, standing quietly, facing the tarmac and the plane. I even notice the crews of the parked Blackhawks are standing on the edge of the tarmac, as well.

A Sergeant Major calls the soldiers on the tarmac to attention. Everyone on the patio comes to attention. Everyone within sight of the tarmac come to attention.

It is hard to describe the feelings you have when you first see it. The flag draped over a casket. Red, white and blue…slowly coming out of the back of a desert sand colored 5-ton truck. Its like a kick to the stomach, really. Pride. Sorrow. I didn’t even know these guys. And it is my gut feeling that most of the people standing around didn’t either. Yet, we all stood at attention. I’m not sure about everyone else around me, but it was probably the most emotional moment I have had since I have been here.

The Sergeant Major calls Present Arms. We all salute.

The first casket moves slowly down the line toward the awaiting plane. Then the second one comes out of the truck. Again, red, white and blue contrasting against the sand colored truck.

This time, the group of obviously injured soldier move into position to carry the casket. No injury was going to stop these guys from carrying their brother to his ride home. This flag covered casket slowly moves toward the plane.

Order Arms. Salutes drop. The two lines slowly file onto the plane to say their good-byes.

It was a quiet ride to the link up point to catch our convoy home. Like I said, I didn’t know either one of these soldiers. But I can say that I was truly honored to be there at that moment. I was honored to be able to pay my respects. Honored to have been able to salute to a fallen brother-in-arms. Seeing that whole scene today just re-affirms many feelings I have about why I am here…why we are here…tonight, my resolve is deepened.

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

As I write this tonight, my heart goes out to their families, who are grieving…to the hearts that are broken at the passing of these two warriors. Rest in Peace, brothers.

As I write this tonight, I am thankful and honored to be an American Soldier.
Weblog LINK

CITIZEN TIPS, GRUNT'S DETERMINATION TAKE SCUZBALLS OFF STREETS

2005-11-27T11:58:00.000-06:00

November 27, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Task Force Baghdad Soldiers captured four suspected terrorists during operations Nov. 24-25.

An Iraqi tipster provided information about a roadside-bomb cell operating in western Rashid. Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment responded to the tip and conducted the operation during the early-morning hours of Nov. 25, detaining three terror suspects.

The previous evening, Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment conducted a mission in eastern Rashid, detaining a suspected terrorist who is believed to be responsible for attacks on Coalition Forces. The suspect attempted to flee the scene as the Soldiers arrived but was unable to evade the U.S. forces. Weblog LINK

BUSY DAY FOR IRAQI, COALITION GRUNTS

2005-11-27T11:53:00.000-06:00

The best news is that nine scuzballs were hoist on their own petard during a bombmaking operation.

November 27, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi and U.S. forces continued the fight against terrorists operating throughout the north central region of Iraq Saturday.

Sixteen suspected terrorists, including one female, were captured in a series of unrelated events.

In an early morning cordon and search mission near Baqubah, Iraqi and U.S. Soldiers detained nine suspected terrorists and seized fuses used for detonating explosives along with several anti-aircraft artillery rounds.

Police in Samarra investigated an explosion that occurred at a gas station southeast of the city Nov. 26 at about 11:30 a.m. Four 155mm artillery shells, converted into IEDs, detonated before they could be moved out of the station, killing nine suspected terrorist and injuring four others. The four injured suspects were detained by the Samarra Police.

In the nearby city of Balad, U.S. Soldiers detained a suspect at a checkpoint after he attempted to avoid questioning. A search revealed that he was carrying more than $3,000 in U.S. currency.

To finish off the day, U.S. troops conducted a clearing operation in Baqubah the evening of Nov. 26. The Soldiers detained a man and a woman after discovering them with eight blocks of C-4 plastic explosive, an AK-47 with several hundred rounds, blasting caps and various other IED-making materials.
Weblog LINK

ZARQAWI BUTTBOY NOW AT ROOM TEMPERATURE, SAYS RELATIVE

2005-11-27T11:45:00.000-06:00

Dead man was gatekeeper, confidant, and “executive secretary” for Zarquawi as well as providing that essential stress relief on lonely nights.

November 26, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – A close family member as well as Coalition sources claimed earlier this week that a gatekeeper and confidant of Abu Mu’sab al-Zarqawi, Bilal Mahmud Awad Shebah, aka Abu Ubaydah, who reportedly met weekly with the leader of al-Qaeda in Iraq, is dead.

Abu Ubaydah was reportedly killed Oct. 14 when Coalition Forces raided several suspected terrorist hideouts in the Albu Ubayd neighborhood north of Ramadi. Although intelligence analysts assessed Abu Ubaydah was killed during the mid-October raids, they could not determine his death with certainty at that time.

In late November, Coalition Forces received information from knowledgeable sources and a close family member of Abu Ubaydah claiming independently that Zarqawi’s confidant and gatekeeper was killed as a result of the Oct. 14 raids.

Detained members of al-Qaeda claim Abu Ubaydah served as an “executive secretary” for Zarqawi; met with Zarqawi frequently; served as a messenger and gatekeeper for Zarqawi; screened all messages and requests for meetings with Zarqawi; was one of Zarqawi’s most trusted associates; provided Zarqawi with safe house locations; and used intimidation and death threats to gain the cooperation of the Iraqi people to support al Qaeda in Iraq terrorist activity.

During the course of the raids, several weapons caches, containing mortar rounds, small arms and ammunition, were found and destroyed. Mortar rounds were also emplaced along the road leading to the safe houses, serving as improvised explosive devices against incoming vehicle or foot traffic. The forces were engaged by small-arms fire upon their arrival to the suspected terrorist location and immediately returned fire. Combining the ground attack with the use of close-air support, the terrorists’ hideout locations were destroyed.

No Coalition forces were injured or killed during the raids. Weblog LINK

SALVADORIAN GRUNTS COMPLETES ROAD IN AL HILLAH

2005-11-27T11:39:00.000-06:00

2,100 projects completed by this group, benefitting more than one half million Iraqis

November 26, 2005
CAMP ECHO, Iraq – Multinational Division Central-South Soldiers completed a new road in al Hillah.

Before the project, the area was a dirt road which turned to mud after every rain. The project, prepared by Salvadorian soldiers, lasted 30 days and consisted of hardening the ground and laying 1250 meters of asphalt.

Since the start of the mission in Iraq, the Salvadorian soldiers completed 78 projects worth more than $3 million. Additional projects are ongoing.

MND CS has been actively engaged in improvement of living conditions for local society in the area of responsibility. MND CS soldiers organize reconstruction of the civilian infrastructure and provide humanitarian relief for Iraqi citizens.

During the past two years, civil military relations’ specialists materialized 2,100 projects; including water purification facilities, electrical power stations, educational infrastructure, medical facilities and administrative buildings. In total they helped more than 500,000 Iraqi people. Weblog LINK

TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESTORED IN AL ANBAR

2005-11-27T11:36:00.000-06:00

Scuzballs cut the fiber optic cable two months ago.

November 26, 2005
CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq – The people of al Anbar Province were reconnected to their country’s capital and the rest of the world today as telecommunication services were restored to the region.

Terrorists cut al Anbar’s electronic ties to the globe nearly two months ago, but telephone, television and Internet service was restored by the collaborative efforts of provincial government telecommunication officials and Coalition Forces.

“This is a tremendous achievement, and it means a lot to the people in al Anbar Province,” Mahmoud Abdul Jabbar Mutlak, the al Anbar director general of telecommunications, said through a translator. “The people can get a lot of benefit out of this.”

The repair of the fiber-optic cable reconnected the province with the national fiber-optic network and will provide many of the more than 1.3 million residents of al Anbar access to services such as telephone, television and Internet. This ability to communicate and enhance access to information comes just in time for the Iraqi national election in December. Weblog LINK

IRAQI, U.S. GRUNTS NAB SCUZBALLS, STOP BOMB ATTACKS, TAKE GUNS N' AMMO

2005-11-27T09:48:00.000-06:00

2,400 routine patrols in 3 days make the city safer for the December 15th elections.

November 26, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Army and Task Force Baghdad Soldiers continued to pursue terrorists and deny them opportunities for attacks during operations in various districts of the capitol city Nov. 21-23.

During the course of more than 2,400 patrols, Iraqi and U.S. forces detained terror suspects, seized weapons caches and found improvised explosive devices before they could be detonated.

Military officials also had help from the local population as individuals came forward with information about terrorist activity.

On Nov. 21, a local resident told Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division about an IED which had been placed around a weapons cache in an area west of Baghdad. The informant also told Soldiers that three vehicles were currently at the location. U.S. forces cordoned off the area and began searching houses and questioning residents. Two terrorists were detained and processed into the Iraqi judicial system.

Another tipster reported an IED concealed in a pile of rubble along a road in east Baghdad Nov. 22. Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry secured the site and called in an explosive ordnance disposal team which disarmed the device consisting of two 57-millimeter rockets and a 130-millimeter round.

Public Order Brigade troops operating in Salman Pak south of Baghdad detained three terror suspects and confiscated a small weapons cache Nov. 23. The arrests also came as a result of information provided by a local resident.

Iraqi Army Soldiers working a checkpoint Nov. 22 detained three suspicious individuals in a vehicle who tried to do a quick U-turn after approaching the Soldiers. The individuals threw a compact disc out of a window and started to flee, but were quickly stopped by a squad of IA Soldiers. After being questioned, the three suspects admitted they were responsible for attacks against U.S. forces in Baghdad, Fallujah and Najaf. The CD contained documents and video footage of terrorist attacks.

In other operations, Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 70th Armored Regiment reported finding a large IED placed under an overpass in north Baghdad Nov. 22. The Soldiers secured the area and called in an EOD team to collect the explosive device.

After a convoy from 2/101st Abn. Div. struck an IED southwest of Baghdad Nov. 21, they noticed three suspicious individuals who appeared to be watching for the explosion. The three suspects exhibited signs of recently handling explosives and were detained for further questioning. Weblog LINK

OPERATION TIGERS BEGINS IN RAMADI

2005-11-27T09:36:00.000-06:00

Another in the continuing series of operations to kill, or capture scuzballs, disrupt their operations, blow up their supplies, and now to implant Grunts to protect the territory gained is instituted.

November 26, 2005
CAMP AR RAMADI, Iraq — Approximately 550 Iraqi Army soldiers and U.S. Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team attached to the 2nd Marine Division, kicked off Operation Tigers (Nimur) this morning in the Ma’Laab District of eastern Ramadi.

Operation Tigers is the fourth in a series of disruption operations executed by the Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces to set the conditions for a successful Dec. 15 election in the AL Anbar capital city of Ar Ramadi.

The previous operations which began Nov. 16 were operations Panthers (Numur), Bruins (Dibbah), and Lions (Asad).

Since Nov. 16, actions conducted by the 2BCT resulted in numerous terrorists killed or detained and netted several weapons caches, to include: surface-to-air missiles, rocket-propelled grenades, numerous rockets, mortar rounds, artillery rounds, hand grenades, landmines, small arms, small-arms ammunition and various IED making equipment.

The discovered weapons caches were used by al Qaeda in Iraq-led terrorists to conduct direct attacks on Iraqi Army, Coalition Forces and Ramadi citizens and also to build roadside bombs.

Cordon and searches, blocking off known terrorist escape routes, and searching for weapons caches in the targeted areas, are incorporated as part of Operation Tigers.

Operation Tigers consists of approximately 150 Iraqi Army Soldiers and 400 Coalition Forces.

More information on the operation will be released as it becomes available. Weblog LINK

WE'RE REALLY, REALLY, REALLY! SORRY WE BURNT THE SCUZBALLS

2005-11-27T09:27:00.000-06:00

We've made a .pdf file but the link may, or may not work. There seems to be a lot of traffic on it.

November 27, 2005
KABUL , Afghanistan – Coalition officials have released an executive summary today of the investigation into U.S. Soldiers burning the bodies of two dead Taliban fighters.
The Combined Joint Task Force-76 Commanding General, Army Maj. Gen. Jason Kamiya announced the results and actions taken as a result of the investigation into the events occurring Oct. 1 near Gumbad during a press conference held today at Kandahar Airfield.
The executive summary is available on the following link: http://www.cfc-a.centcom.mil/News%20Release/Nov05/Investigation%20into%20the%20Gumbad%20Incident.pdf Weblog LINK

NEW WATER PLANT OPENS IN AL HASAIN

2005-11-25T20:14:00.000-06:00

Scuzballs plan to kidnap 300 local Iraqis and make them drink from the river after which they will be blown up. Can't have a Scuzball event without blowing someone up. It wouldn't be complete.

November 25, 2005
CAMP ECHO, Iraq – Multinational Division Central-South Soldiers and local authorities opened a new water plant for al Husain village near Afak (30 km east of Ad Diwaniyah) Nov. 23.

The new facility provides potable water to about 3,000 local citizens.

Prepared by Bulgarian soldiers from MNDCS 1 Brigade Combat Team, the project began two months ago and included the building of a new water plant with the pumps, filters, chlorinate system, generator and 3-km long pipeline system connecting the water plant with the village.

During the past two years, civil military relations’ specialists facilitated more than 2,000 projects; including water purification facilities, electrical power stations, educational infrastructure, medical facilities and administrative buildings. Weblog LINK

OPERATION LIONS ENDS, 20 SCUZBALLS NABBED

2005-11-25T20:09:00.000-06:00

Suburb of Ramidi made safer for December 15 elections.

November 24, 2005
AR RAMADI, Iraq — Approximately 200 Iraqi Army Soldiers and 250 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team (2-BCT) concluded Operation Asad (Lions) in the Tammim area of ar Ramadi today.

As a result of Lions, 20 suspected terrorists were detained by Iraqi Army Soldiers and 2-BCT Soldiers.

Lions is the third in a series of disruption operations that aimed to capture or kill al Qaeda in Iraq terrorists in the Ramadi area and deny them the ability to influence the Iraqi people there. Operations Panthers and Bruins denied AQI terrorists the ability to operate in northern ar Ramadi.

These operations, paired with operations west of ar Ramadi, are effectively disrupting AQI terrorists across al Anbar and are creating an environment conducive to free and fair elections Dec. 15. Weblog LINK

CITIZEN TIP LEADS TO SMALL PILE OF GUNS N' AMMO

2005-11-25T20:04:00.000-06:00

Another disgusted proves the Scuzball program to win the hearts and minds of Iraqis continues apace. Yeah,Boy!

November 24, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – A tip from a local citizen on the location of a weapons cache in the Tissa Nissan district of east Baghdad resulted in the destruction of the weapons Nov 23.

Around 4 p.m., elements of 1st Battalion, 64th Armor responded to the site and discovered 31 60-millimeter mortar rounds and 19 120-millimeter mortar rounds.

An explosive ordnance disposal team was called to the scene and conducted a controlled detonation of the munitions. Weblog LINK

4,280 IRAQI HOMES GET NEW WATER AND SEWER SYSTEM

2005-11-25T19:57:00.000-06:00

Scuzballs hope to compete by killing 428 citizens. Yeah! That'll work!

November 24, 2005
MOSUL, Iraq – A water supply and sewer distribution system completed in November will benefit 4,280 Iraqi homes in Baqubah.

Construction on the new facility began in May 2005 and employed 250 Iraqi construction workers including pipe fitters, plumbers, electricians, masons, carpenters, plasterers, truck drivers and backhoe operators.

The old system provided potable water to only a limited number of homes and needed upgrades to provide a safe water supply to the community. The system could not keep abreast of growth. The new state-of-the-art system serves a larger section of the community and eliminates the need to connect to the storm water system, and stops the discharge of pollution, and health hazards into the river.

This community project is another concrete example of how Iraq is working towards reconstruction, autonomy, and prosperity. Weblog LINK

SCUZBALLS ATTACK HOSPITAL, 18 CITIZENS , 6 COPS DEAD

2005-11-25T19:52:00.000-06:00

Iraqi government deserves medal for NOT torturing more of these scumbags.

November 24, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Security Forces and Task Force Baghdad Soldiers responded to a suicide car bomb attack in Mahmudiyah around 10:40 a.m. Nov. 24.

Initial reports indicate 18 Iraqi civilians and six security guards with Force Protection Services were killed in the terrorist attack at the Mahmudiyah Hospital and at least 30 other civilians were wounded. Four U.S. Soldiers were also wounded.

Task Force Baghdad civil affairs Soldiers were at the hospital conducting an assessment for upgrades to the facility when the car bomb detonated.

Task Force Baghdad officials said the target appears to have been the hospital, but the terrorist was unable to penetrate the security perimeter before detonating. Initial reports indicate there was no structural damage to the hospital.

Iraqi Army Soldiers and additional Task Force Baghdad Soldiers quickly arrived to secure the site and provide additional medical support. Weblog LINK

SCUZBALL PROPOGANDA/BOMB/CHARITY SCAM CHIEF NABBED

2005-11-25T19:31:00.000-06:00

Budding career in Scuzballism cut short by combination of citizen disgust and too many irons in the fire.

November 24, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Acting on multiple intelligence sources and tips from concerned citizens, Coalition forces raided a suspected Jaysh al-Mujahideen terrorist safe house in Abu Ghurayb, west of Baghdad, Oct. 23.

Captured during the raid was Ahmad Ni’mah Khudayyir Abbas (aka. Abu Shihab), a recently identified Jaysh al-Mujahideen lieutenant who oversaw the propaganda cell and who commanded several mortar and improvised explosive device cells.

Abu Shihab, as the propaganda chief for the Jaysh al-Mujahideen media cell operating in the Baghdad area, initially recorded videos and digitized them to compact disc for distribution to various Jaysh al-Mujahideen and al Qaeda in Iraq terrorist groups. These videos would then be downloaded to various Jihadist web sites as propaganda against Iraqi security and coalition forces.

Additionally, the videos would be used to recruit terrorists and foreign fighters, as well as to provide information on potential targets for other terrorists. As his skills and terrorist connections developed, he began directing and coordinating media operations throughout the Baghdad area for Jaysh al-Mujahideen.

Abu Shihab’s multi-media and organizational skills propelled him to the highest tier within Jaysh al-Mujahideen. Once he became a lieutenant to the Emir of Jaysh al-Mujahideen, he assumed responsibility for a myriad of terrorist duties. Besides overseeing Jaysh al-Mujahideen media operations, Abu Shihab was responsible for the coordination of weapons, explosive purchases and the distribution of money to different terrorist cells, as well as the official record keeping of the organization’s terrorist activities.

Abu Shihab was also in command of several terrorist cells in the Baghdad area, specifically mortar and IED cells. He admitted to conducting numerous bombings and mortar attacks against Iraqi security and coalition forces.

Abu Shihab admitted to being involved in the swindling of money from Iraqi citizens. He, as well as other Jaysh al-Mujahideen terrorists, would represent a local Baghdad charity they set up specifically to funnel donations to Jaysh al-Mujahideen.

One method of garnering donations from local citizens, according to Abu Shihab, was to stage pictures with children and young adults highlighting the “charity’s” name and logo in the background. The pictures would be shown to the Iraqis to solicit money supposedly in support of youth education and religious study; these donations would then be used to support terrorist operations in the Baghdad area.

The Jaysh al-Mujahideen terrorist organization, which is centrally controlled in Baghdad, also has terrorist cells in major cities in Iraq, to include Mosul, Fallujah, Ramadi; Jaysh al-Mujahideen is associated with al Qaeda in Iraq. Weblog LINK

SCUZBALLS PLANT BOMBS, BUT GRUNTS FIND THEM BEFORE THEY EXPLODE

2005-11-25T19:26:00.000-06:00

November 24, 2005
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Task Force Baghdad Soldiers saw numerous small victories over the terrorist effort in east Baghdad Nov. 22.

Around 9:30 a.m., elements of 1st Battalion, 64th Armor discovered a roadside bomb in a pile of trash. An explosives ordnance disposal team was called to the scene and conducted a controlled detonation of the device.

At noon, another roadside bomb was spotted by elements of 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry. An EOD team was called to the site and transported the device to another location.

Looking for terrorist activity, elements of the 2nd and 3rd battalions of the 2nd Public Order Brigade searched numerous homes in Zafaraniya as part of a joint operation with 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery.

“The POB units have gotten very comfortable with cordon-and-search missions. They acted very professionally and are pretty much operating on their own,” said Capt. Jason Pelletier, commander of A Battery, 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery.

During the joint operation, one local resident turned over a bag of 59 hand grenades and 10 feet of explosive detonating cord.

At about 5:30 p.m., 3/7 Cav. responded to a tip from a local citizen and secured a roadside bomb before it could be used against Iraqi civilians, Iraqi Security Forces or Coalition Forces. An EOD team removed the device to another location. Weblog LINK

MDCS GRUNTS RAISED LIVING STANDARDS FOR HALF MILLION IRAQIS

2005-11-24T09:05:00.000-06:00

November 23, 2005
Starting Nov. 23, 800 Iraqi families living in ad Diwaniyah suburbs have a connection to city water main thanks to the efforts of Multinational Division Central South Soldiers. A pipeline system has been built to provide water for the citizens.

A 12 mile long water pipeline system has been built for three housing estates in ad Diwaniyah suburbs which did not have connections to the city water main. Because of the two month long project, about 4000 citizens will have water in their houses.

From the very beginning of its mission the MDCS has been actively engaged in improvement of living conditions for the local population. MNDCS Soldiers organized reconstruction of the civilian infrastructure and provided humanitarian relief for Iraqi citizens. During the last two years, civil military relations’ specialists materialized 2100 projects, including water purification facilities, electrical power stations, educational infrastructure, medical facilities and administrative buildings. In total, they have helped more than 500,000 Iraqi people. Weblog LINK

CAPTAIN MIRANDA TURNS COMMAND OF TASK FORCE 58 OVER TO COMMADORE WILLIAMS

2005-11-24T08:47:00.000-06:00

November 23, 2005
USS SAN JACINTO (CG 56), North Arabian Gulf -- Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams assumed command of Combined Task Force 58, the multinational coalition force responsible for conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in the North Arabian Gulf, Nov. 18.

Previously, U.S. Navy Capt. Hank Miranda led the MSO effort in the North Arabian Gulf for the past three months as the commander of Task Group 58.1.

MSO seek to preserve the free and secure use of the world’s oceans by legitimate mariners, and prevent terrorists from attempting to use the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a medium to transport personnel, weapons or other illicit material.

“The strength of a coalition is greater than the sum of its parts,” said Williams. “In terms of the coalition here in the northern Arabian Gulf, the real demonstration of that concerted strength and concerted capability is the fact that here I am, as a British one star, in charge of a force made up of Australian, American, United Kingdom and Iraqi forces able to operate together.”

As part of MSO in the North Arabian Gulf, CTF 58 is also entrusted with the security of Iraq's Al Basra and Khwar Al Amaya oil terminals. These two oil terminals account for a significant percentage of Iraq's revenue and are vital to the Iraqi rebuilding process.

“The role of CTF 58 is to assist the Iraqis sustain their territory and to ensure that it's economic infrastructure is unharmed by those who wish to see the current progress in democracy to fail,” said Williams.

“It is a coalition which is increasingly turning toward assisting the Iraqis in the protection of their own assets as opposed to a coalition which is doing it on their behalf. We are in a transition phase, as we speak, in developing the Iraqi forces,” he said.

USS San Jacinto (CG 56) will serve as Williams’ flagship, marking the first time a Royal Naval Commodore has flown his flag over a U.S. Navy warship since the end of World War I.

“The importance of a flagship is that it has the capacity and capability to command forces both close to and at range and has the flexibility to operate in many different dimensions,” said Williams. “You need a ship of this scale and capacity to be able to command the diversity of forces we have here in the northern gulf to ensure the protection of Iraqi territorial waters.”
Weblog LINK

30 SCUZBALLS, GUNS N' AMMO TAKEN AT HIDEYHOLE ISLAND NEAR BAYJI

2005-11-24T08:29:00.000-06:00

November 23, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – A joint Iraqi and U.S. mission against a terrorist hideout near Bayji uncovered a large amount of money and weapons.

The operation named Old Baldy was launched Nov. 21 by Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 4th Iraqi Army Division and “Rakkasans” from the 101st Airborne Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team. More than 30 suspected terrorists and a large cache of money, weapons and material were captured during the operation.

The air assault mission was centered on al Bayji Island, a 10 square kilometer land mass splitting the Tigris River north of Tikrit, Saddam Hussein’s hometown. The island has served as an isolated hideout for terrorists and criminals in the past.

According to Lt. Col. Randy George, commander of Task Force Leader, Bayji Island was a “previously untouched area and we wanted to send a clear message to the insurgents: there is no safe haven in AO Rakkasan.”

The Soldiers swept onto the island before dawn Nov. 21 in UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters from the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. Over the next 36 hours, the Iraqi and American Soldiers conducted searches of the island, uncovering stores of enemy weapons including rocket-propelled grenades and IED making material.

“This operation instilled confidence in our Iraqi counterparts, and served to further strengthen our partnership with the Iraqi Army,” said George, referring to the Rakkasan partnership with the 4th Iraqi Army Division soldiers.
Weblog LINK

9 SCUZBALLS NABBED AFTER BOMB ATTACK

2005-11-24T08:26:00.000-06:00

November 23, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq – Nine terrorists were captured after an IED attack against a 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division patrol Tuesday afternoon near Balad.

The nine men were detained after two of them tested positive for explosives residue. The IED was constructed from a 155mm artillery round and hidden alongside the road.

One Soldier was wounded in the attack and taken to a local military medical facility.
Weblog LINK

FORMER PALACE NOW GOVERNMENT COMPLEX.....SORRY, SADDAM

2005-11-24T08:21:00.000-06:00

November 23, 2005
TIKRIT, Iraq -- The Iraqi government took control of Saddam Hussein’s palace complex from U.S. Coalition Forces in a historic ceremony Nov. 22 in Tikrit.

Three different U.S. Army units have used the complex as a forward operating base since 2003.

“Now it is the property of the Iraqi people,” said Hamad Hamood Shekti, governor of the Salah Ad Din Province. “Tourists will be allowed to see the palaces.”

Colonel Mark McKnight, commander of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, handed the “key to the palace” to Shekti during the ceremony, signifying the release of U.S. control.

“The passing of this facility is a simple ceremony that vividly demonstrates the continuing progress being made by the Iraqi government and their people,” McKnight said.

“Two years ago, Coalition Forces fought to rid this nation of an oppressive regime. Since that time, Coalition Forces… have resided on FOB Danger, working alongside Iraqis to protect the four provinces of north central Iraq,” McKnight added.

Although 24 other coalition operating bases have been turned over to the people of Iraq, ten of them in north central Iraq, the Tikrit palace complex is the most significant transition to date. The complex is on more than 1,000 acres of land along the Tigris River. There are 136 buildings on the property with a combined 1.5 million square feet of administrative and living space.

The province was and will stay “a symbol of national unity and brotherhood in Iraq” Shekti said.

“[Today], we celebrate the transfer of the presidential palaces to the patriotic Iraqi hands, signifying the many aspirations and goals of the great citizens of the Salah Ad Din province,” Shekti said.

Shekti said he looks forward to Iraq’s independence, when all multi-national forces are able to leave Iraq, and wants to prove the people of Iraq can manage their issues independently.

“These palaces are owned by not one person anymore,” he said, “and no one will be prevented from entering them in the future, because now it is the property of the Iraqi people.”

The palace complex was initially secured by the 4th Infantry Division in 2003 and designated as Camp Iron Horse during Operation Iraqi Freedom I. Saddam Hussein was captured near Camp Iron Horse in December 2003.

The base was redesignated FOB Danger once it came under the control of the 1st Infantry Division out of Wurzburg, Germany.

The 42nd Infantry Division, a National Guard unit based in New York, took over the FOB Feb. 14, and in July began the process of returning the complex to the Iraqi people.

Many Iraqi officials attended the momentous event, including Lt. Gen. Shahid Aziz, commander of the 4th Iraqi Army; Rasheed Ahmad, chairman of the Salah Ad Din provincial council; and Judge Abd al Hussein Shandal, the minister of justice. U.S. Ambassador Dr. Zalmay Khalilzad and Gen. George Casey, commander of Multi-National Force – Iraq were also in attendance. Weblog LINK