marne express · above left: pvt. krystal burgess and sgt. shakira gray, hhsc, stb food service...

Volume 2, Issue 6 Serving the Soldiers of Task Force Baghdad May 8, 2005

TThh ee MMaarrnnee EExxpprreess ss

Samarra patrolpage 13

Weapons foundpage 7

Village MEDCAPpage 15

B-ball tournamentpage 23

In this week’sMarneExpress

“Mission, Soldiers, Teamwork”

Spc. Emily J. Wilsoncroft3rd Inf. Div. PAO

CAMP PROSPERITY, Iraq — Staff Sgt. Juan Serrano, Spc.Noel Mata and Spc. Michael Foutch, all from B Company, 4thBattalion, 64th Armor Regiment, are used to riding around in aBradley Fighting Vehicle, but these days, they’ve had to get used

to something a little better suited to the streets of Baghdad.In their old crew, Mata, from Pruce Crossing, Mich., was the

Bradley’s driver, and Foutch, from Cumberland, Ky., was the vehi-cle’s gunner.

“Last time we were here to fight a war and that was it,”explained Sgt. 1st Class Harold Hill, a D Company, 4/64 Armorplatoon sergeant. “Nobody was friendly. Now we’re workinghand in hand with the Iraqi Army,” Hill said.

Now, however, the positions have shifted with the mission:Serrano drives an M1114 up-armored humvee while Mata mansthe hatch and Foutch rides along to provide extra security.

And instead of fighting against the Iraqis, the Soldiers are work-ing with them.

Serrano, Mata, Foutch and their fellow B Co. Soldiers are nowattached to D Co., 4/64, and most of their time is spent training andon patrol with the Soldiers of 1st Brigade, 1st Brigade, 6th IraqiArmy Division.

“We go out with the Iraqis and let them do most of the patrolmission, so eventually they can do it on their own,” Serrano, a sec-tion leader from Levittown, Puerto Rico, said. “So far, the IA’sdoing good; they seem to be motivated and willing to learn.”

Mata and Foutch agreed that the trainees have come a long way,and the daily missions have been instrumental to that progress.

During one routine patrol April 8, the IA Soldiers accompaniedtheir U.S. counterparts to various areas in Baghdad.

“Today we’re doing a joint patrol with the Iraqi Army,patrolling the river road route on the border of the Tigris,”

4/64, 1/1 IA team up, take on responsibilities in Baghdad

See PATROL, page 14

Spc. Emily J. WilsoncroftA Soldier from 1/1 IA looks out over the Tigris toward Baghdadwhile pulling perimeter security at a dumping ground in the cityduring a routine patrol with 4/64 Armor April 8.

Spc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.1st BCT PAO

In the middle of the night, aloud explosion rips throughthe darkness.

A few seconds later, and afew kilometers away, theground is lit up by a light inthe sky.

Enemies who were depend-ing on the cover of darkness

now have no place to hide. This is made possible by

Soldiers of B Battery, 1stBattalion, 41st Field ArtilleryRegiment.

“Tonight we are going tofire two different kinds ofrounds,” said 1st Lt. JohnDorffeld, a B Battery 1/41 FAplatoon leader. “We have twoguns we are taking with us,and each one will fire in a dif-

ferent direction, giving us agood lateral spread.”

“Basically we were given amission to supply illuminationcoverage for the (Iraqi min-istry of interior) during opera-tion Forsyth Park,” said Sgt.1st Class Mark Lowry, BBattery 1/41 platoon sergeant.

Illumination coveragelights up the area for groundtroops so they have more situ-

ational awareness, Lowrysaid. “We were taking backthe night from the insurgents.”

The illumination round hasseveral different purposes, themost important being the iden-tification of enemy targets,Lowry said.

“We had a good function ofall the illumination rounds,

‘Glory Guns’ light up desert night

See GUNS, page 14

Spc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.An illumination round fired from the Paladin track vehicle descends toward the ground in the distance near Samarra April 22.

No place to hide ...No place to hide ...

Task Force Baghdad Public Affairs OfficeCommanding General: Maj. Gen. William G. WebsterJr.Public Affairs Officer: Lt. Col. Clifford C. KentPublic Affairs Supervisor: Master Sgt. Greg Kaufman

The Marne Express StaffEditor: Sgt. 1st Class Brenda BennerAssociate Editor: Spc. Emily J. WilsoncroftLayout and Design: Spc. Emily J. WilsoncroftStaff Writers: Sgt. 1st Class Peter Chadwick, Sgt. 1stClass David Abrams, Staff Sgt. Ken Walker, Staff Sgt.Raymond Piper, Sgt. Thomas Benoit, Sgt. Andrew

Miller, Sgt. Kevin Bromley, Spc. Emily J. Wilsoncroft,Spc. Ricardo Branch, Spc. Natalie Loucks, Spc. BenBrody, Spc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr., Spc. Jennifer Fitts, Spc.Derek Del Rosario, Spc. Chrstopher Foster, Spc. BrianHenretta, Spc. Erin Robicheaux, Spc. Brian Schroeder,Spc. Matthew Wester, Pfc. Daniel Balda, Pfc. MatthewMcLaughlin, Pfc. Mike Pryor.

The Marne Express is an authorized publication formembers of the U.S. Army. Contents of The MarneExpress are not necessarily official views of, orendorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department ofDefense, Department of the Army or the 3rdInfantry Division. All editorial content of The MarneExpress is prepared, edited, provided andapproved by the 3rd Infantry Division Public AffairsOffice.

TThh ee MMaarrnnee EExxpprreessss

Op/Ed The Marne Express, May 8, 2005

The Wordon the StreetWhat are some thoughts or reflectionsyou’d like to share about your mother?

"My mom went theextra mile for me while

I was growing up inschool. She drove an

hour everyday to bringme to private school,

because she felt that'swhere I would get the

best education."

Spc. Jolie DarbonneC Co., 199th FSB

Breaux Bridge, La.

"My mom and I didn'tsee each other for

almost 15 years. Oneday I found her at

work and we've beenbuilding a relationship

and growing closerever since."

Spc. Michael ErchulHHB, 1/141 FA

Milwaukee, Wis.

"My favorite memoriesof my Mom have a lotto do with the way ourhome life was, andwhat she did to makeit special – forinstance, her cook-ing!"

Sgt. AnthonySotomayorHHC, 1/69 Inf.Brooklyn, N.Y.

"If I could be home forMother's Day this year,I'd buy her some rosesand prepare her a nicemeal, and have the fam-ily there for a gather-ing. I would just makesure she knows howmuch I miss her."

Sgt. Eddie BernardA Co., 2/156 Inf.Rayne, La.

"My mom was alwaysthe person I could goto, and now that mysister has a child andmy wife and I just hada baby, I have a wholenew respect and out-look on motherhood."

Spc. James CastilleA Co., 3/156 Inf.Iowa, La.

Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Brenda BennerTop left : Spc. Jarrod Marshall, a Headquarters and Headquarters Support Company, SpecialTroops Battalion food service specialst, performs head count and crowd control at the CampLiberty dining facility.Above left: Pvt. Krystal Burgess and Sgt. Shakira Gray, HHSC, STB food service specialists,serve on the main line at the Liberty DFAC.Right: Spc. Sonia Campbell, a Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Soldier SupportBattalion food service specialist, dishes out a hot meal for Soldiers at the Liberty DFAC.

UU nn ss uu nn gg hh ee rr oo ee ssWhat fuels a war machine?We speak of combat power relative to tanks,

Bradley Fighting Vehicles, gunships, etc. ... Isubmit to you that Soldiers rank higher.

A shout out to the Task Force Baghdadcooks and dining facility personnel!

We should all be proud of all our food serv-ice personnel serving across the theater.

Our Army’s food service program has con-tinued to maintain pace with the ever-changingmilitary environment,

I can tell you I’m overly impressed with theprofessionalism, committment, dedication toduty and customer service-associated disposi-

tion of all these Soldiers.The first noticeable thing you see is the hard

work placed into constructing the outside eat-ing area build-up.

Please take the opportunity to thank thestaff: Master Sgt. Shelton Coppett, Mr. Lee andboth Soldiers, contractors and local nationalsfor their world-class support.

In closing, you can help support the team atthe DFAC by adhering to the following guide-lines:• Show your ID card• Do not carry AAFES bags in to carry out bev-erages• Don’t bring in backpacks in any form

Thanks again for your cooperation and sup-port!

Maj. Gen. William G. Webster Jr.Task Force Baghdad commander

Task Force Baghdad continues to aggressive-ly take the fight to the enemy.

Since the Transition of Authority, we haveprovided a safer environment from which ourpartners in the Iraqi Security Forces have beenable to learn and grow in strength and capabili-ty.

The Iraqi Security Forces in Baghdad haveprovided critical forces to our team in operationsto secure and safeguard the Ashoura andArba’iniyyah religious holidays, the Sadr peace-ful protest and 17 seatings of the TransitionalNational Assembly.

However, we must remain focused on ourMISSION.

Your actions will keep the enemy off-balanceand reacting to us, while reassuring the popula-tion.

Our Soldiers are our most valued asset.Continue to look out for each other.

Ensure you wear your protective equip-ment on missions.

Our protective equipment helps to miti-gate risk, reduce injuries and has undoubted-ly saved the lives of many of our buddies.

Remind your battle buddy to use the equip-ment … take care of our Soldiers.

Safe operation of our equipment is stillimportant. Understand your equipment’scapabilities and weak points.

Together with your teammates ensureyour equipment is properly maintained andsafety considerations are understood.Teamwork can assist in preventing acci-dents.

Together we can save lives and keepequipment in the fight.

We will continue our mission of combat-ing terrorism in Iraq while training IraqiSecurity Forces.

Our teams have shown the enemy that wecan adapt to any tactical change and thenmove a step ahead by taking the fight to him.

We will remain flexible, keep operationssimple and build on our successes.

It is impressive to see the daily results ofSoldiers who know their mission, know theyare well-trained and well-led, and know theydominate the battle field.

Mission … Soldiers … Teamwork

“Rock of the Marne!”

MarMar ne Six Sendsne Six SendsKeep your focus on the mission

Command Sgt. Major William M. GrantTask Force Baghdad command sergeant major

The Marne Express, May 8, 2005

HappyHappyMother’sMother’s Day!Day!

“All women become like their mothers. That is theirtragedy. No man does; that’s his.” – Oscar Wilde

“A mother is not a person to lean on but a person tomake leaning unnecessary.” – Dorothy C. Fisher

“The most remarkable thing about my mother is that for 30 years sheserved the family nothing but leftovers. The original meal has never

been found.” – Calvin Trillin

“The art of mothering is to teach the art of living to children.” – Elain Heffner

“‘Mother’ is the name for God in the lips andhearts of little children.”

– William Makepeace Thackeray

“No matter how old a mother is, she watchesher middle-aged children for signs of

improvement.” – Florida Scott-Maxwell

“Motherhood iis aa wwonderful tthing –– wwhat aa ppity tto wwaste iiton cchildren.” –– JJudith PPugh

“A father may turn his back on his child … but a mother’s loveendures through all.” – Washington Irving

“Some aare kkissing mmothers aand ssome aarescolding mmothers, bbut iit iis llove jjust tthe

same.” –– PPearl BBuck

“Mothers aare ffonder tthan ffathers oof ttheirchildren bbecause tthey aare mmore ccertain tthey

are ttheir oown.” –– AAristotle

“The world is full of women blindsidedby the unceasing demands of mother-hood, still flabbergasted by how a job

can be terrific and torturous.” – Anna Quindlen

“Sooneror later we all

quote our mothers.” – Bern Williams

Motherly inspiration lives on through generations Capt. Dominique ButlerG-4 battle captain

When I was asked to sharemy Mother’s Day memoriesfor this edition of the MarneExpress, I was very flattered.

I wanted to express myrelationship with the matri-archs in my life and touch alittle bit on what most of ourmothers have meant to all ofus.

In most Black families thematriarch of the family is theperson who holds the familytogether. My family was nodifferent.

My grandmother servedthat position well. Her namewas Mary Helen Carroll.

I can remember havingSunday dinners every week.She would spend all day

cooking for the family; shelet me help most of the time.We cooked collard greens,baked macaroni and cheese,ham, fried/baked chicken,cabbage, mashed potatoes,turkey with all the trimmings,banana pudding, cornbreadand I could go on.

Our family would all meetat Grandma’s coming fromall over the Bronx and packup in my grandparents’ small3 bedroom apartment. At anygiven time there were 10-15folks for dinner.

We had been havingSunday dinners at Grandma’shouse since I was 3 years old.My grandmother was my 1stinspiration. She was the firstin her family to graduatefrom college. She had adegree in Social work.

Mary Helen taught me a lotin the kitchen and in the class-room. On Feb. 26, 1991, theLord called her home. Losingthe foundation of our familytook a toll on us all.

This is when my secondinspiration stepped in.

When the Lord called mygrandmother home I was 13years old. My mom was 30.My mom, Renee, was the sec-ond-eldest of four children,and the first female born.

Of the four, she was theclosest to Grandma. Theresponsibilities of funeralarrangements, taking care ofmy grandfather and keepingthe family together restedupon her shoulders. Not tomention, she had to raise twochildren of her own alone.

I watched in amazement the

way my mom put her grievingaside to help get her familythrough this ordeal. All Icould say was “I don’t think Icould handle it.”

I was impressed at mymom’s strength and love shehad for all of us. She kept mygrandmother’s Sunday tradi-tion going as long as shecould.

My mom is still the gluethat keeps our family together.She has been my constantmodel for success.

My mom graduated fromhigh school and then had me.Needless to say, she was ayoung mother.

She had to mature fast andsacrifice her college dreams totake care of me. She alwaysput my education above allelse. My mom sent me to

Catholic school for junior highand high school.

She encouraged (forced)me to go to college and saidwe would figure out a way topay for it. My mom workedfor the same company, AppleBank, for the last 27 years.She started out as a bank tellerand now is Senior VicePresident of her branch.

Perseverance andDetermination is what mymom embodies and what shetaught her children.

When I graduated fromMorgan State University in1999, I gave the senior classaddress and thanked my momfor her support. Now I canreturn the favor – my momstarted college last year and isworking on her degree infinance.


Memorialhonors 3rdACR scoutSgt. 1st Class Donald Sparks3rd ACR PAO

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – As Pfc. JosephLabian Knott’s name was called thrice inthe symbolic roll call by 1st Sgt. RodneyGreene during the memorial service tohonor the fallen trooper, not a sound couldbe heard.

That is, except for the chiming ofKnott’s dog tags clanging in the cool, duskbreeze during the event held April 21.

Knott, assigned to the RegimentalHeadquarters, Headquarters “Remington”Troop, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment,was killed in action April 17 when hisvehicle was struck by an improvisedexplosive device.

At the service, Col. H.R. McMaster, 3rdACR commander, spoke about the cavalryscout who served on his Personal SecurityDetachment.

“We are here to honor and say goodbyeto one of our Brave Rifles brothers, a greatcavalry trooper and a fine man,” McMastersaid. “On 17 April during operations in theSouth Baghdad area, he made the ultimatesacrifice to bring peace to this difficultregion, defeat the forces of terrorism andhatred, and permit children, both in Iraqand in our own nation, to live free of fear.”

Concluding his remarks, McMasterlooked at the gathering of troopers at theservice, some donning the traditionalStetsons and spurs, and made a promise onbehalf of the first 3rd ACR trooper killedin support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 3.

“We should also draw strength fromJoseph Knott’s example,” McMaster said.“I, for one, will do my best to follow hisexample – to put fellow troopers beforemyself, to do my very best to win this fightagainst terrorists and the enemies of free-dom, to maintain my sense of humor andenjoy the company of my fellow troopers.”

Knott joined the Army from Yuma,Ariz., with ambitions of joining theSpecial Forces. He was remembered forearning the respect of his fellow trooperson the PSD and his dedication to duty.

His company commander shared his ini-tial conversation with him upon his arrivalin October to the unit back at Fort Carson,Colo.

“When I reviewed his welcome centerin-processing packet, I noticed his com-ment in the ‘comments section,’” saidCapt. David Rozelle, RHHT companycommander. “He had written, ‘Everythingwas fine, but I would have liked somemore time to have some fun.’ Laughing, Iasked him what he meant.

“He did not crack a smile but said, ‘Iknew that once I was with the Cav wewould be working hard to get ready forwar.’ He was right.”

Troopers of the historic unit weredeeply moved when one of Knott’s closestfriends and member of the PSD came tothe podium and delivered a personal,heartfelt tribute.

Pfc. Shawn Hatley compiled a list ofmemories of “Knotty” from other mem-bers of the PSD and comprised a speech.

“He showed loyalty and respect to hisplatoon, he showed honor and integrity inhis personality; character in how he car-ried himself, he showed personal courageand selfless service every time we left thegate,” Hatley said. “Knotty Boy alwayshad a tune and kept a tune. He lovedmusic. Every time you saw Knott, he wasalways singing and nodding his head. Andwhen you would look at him, he would justsmile and keep on singing.”

As the breeze picked up, Knott’s dogtags chimed a bit more, reminding his fel-low troopers there was still a tune left tohear and a song to sing.

“If I could sing I would sing louder,”McMaster said.

Knott is survived by his father Jerry, hismother Pamela, his sisters Susan and

Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Donald SparksStaff Sgt. Matthew Hodges, right, 3rd ACR, sheds tears during the memorial service for Pfc. Joseph Knott held at CampStriker, Iraq April 21. Hodges was Knott's PSD platoon sergeant. Knott was killed April 17 by an IED while on a convoy.

Above: Knott’s identication tags clangagainst his M16A2 rifle during the memorialservice to honor the slain trooper.Right: Knott’s Kevlar, rifle and dog tags aredisplayed for the more than 200 troopersattending his memorial service.

Above: Knott’s boots are laced with his spurs anddecorated with coins.Right: Pfc. Joseph Labian Knott, 3rd ACR scout, inan undated photo prior to his promotion.


1/3 BBTB ssaddened oover lloss oof ppeerSpc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.1st BCT PAO

FORWARD OPERATING BASEDAGGER, Iraq — A Soldier’s lifewas stolen from the 1st BrigadeCombat Team when an insurgent fireda rocket at the FOB April 15.

Cpl. Aleina Ramirez, a militarypolicewoman and a member of 3rdInfantry Division’s 1st BrigadeTroops Battalion personal securitydetachment, was killed during theattack.

This was the first time insurgentshit FOB Dagger since the arrival of1st BCT, said Staff Sgt. MarquisMills-Cooper, a 1/3 BTB intelligenceanalyst.

Soldiers who knew and workeddirectly with Ramirez have fondmemories of her personality and char-acter.

“I met (Ramirez) in Kuwait, andwe hit it off really fast because we hada lot in common,” said Pvt. MeganZeigler, a 1/3 BTB information sys-tems operator analyst. “When I thinkof (Ramirez), I always want to thinkof loyalty right away. She was a veryloyal and trustworthy person. Whenyou were around her, anything thatwas wrong, she would uplift you. Shewas always happy. We were the onlytwo female (squad automatedweapon) gunners on this FOB. Shefaced danger every day. She nevercomplained. She would go out and siton top of the vehicle and be vulnera-ble. She would have done anythingfor anybody. She was the strongestSoldier I think I had ever met. Shemakes me want to be strong andbrave.”

Ramirez inspired the Soldiersaround her with her positive attitude.

“The thing I admired about hermost was the fact that she could nevercomplain about anything she had toget done,” Pfc. Nia Rock, a 1/3 BTBsupply specialist. “As a Soldier, if shewas told something on short notice, ifshe had been up all night and just hit-ting the bed, no matter when it wasshe was always prepared. She couldnever be late even if she wanted to,that was not an option. The littlestthings made her happy, even eatingsomething of her choice that daywould make her smile. When I askedher about being on the PSD team andwanted to know if she wanted to stayon it, her reply was, “If my teamstays, I want to stay.”

Soldiers who worked withRamirez only briefly were still ableto see something special about her.

“I didn’t know her from a hole inthe wall when I first got here,” saidSpc. Keith Brescher, Headquartersand Headquarters Company, 1st BCT.“She worked with me and alwaysbrought me chow when I couldn’tleave. She never complained aboutdoing it. She was a very giving per-

son.”As a member of the PSD team, she

is remembered by 1/3 BTB com-mander Lt. Col. Douglas Victor as anindividual who had great potentialand accomplished much during hershort time in Iraq.

“As an integral part of the DesertCat Battalion’s PSD, Ramirez skill-fully drove for crew number three,”Victor said. “In just a short time, shealready executed (more than) 125patrols on the dangerous roads ofIraq.”

Ramirez was studying for the E-5promotion board. Her leaders werefully confident in her ability toassume the responsibilities inherentin that role.

“Ramirez was a quiet professionaland fully capable to be a sergeant,”Victor said.

Victor believes that despite theloss of Ramirez, his unit has pulled

together, and remembers what kind ofSoldier she was.

“While our unit is terribly sad-dened by the ultimate sacrifice ofCpl. Ramirez, the Desert Cats are abetter unit because of her,” Victorsaid.

A memorial ceremony was held forRamirez April 21, and featured a dis-play of her boots, assigned weapon,identification tags and helmet.Chaplain (Capt.) Nathan Klein deliv-ered the memorial meditation.

Ramirez’s company and battalioncommanders also made remarks. Theceremony was hosted by Col. MarkMcKnight, 1st BCT commander, andwas also attended by Task ForceLiberty commander Maj. Gen. JosephTaluto.

Ramirez is survived by her fatherWilfredo Ramirez, her mother AleinaRamirez, and her brother JoelRamirez.

Photos by Spc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.Cpl. Aleina Ramirez, 1/3 BTB, studies for the promotion board between missions.Ramirez was killed by enemy rocket fire at FOB Dagger April 15.

Ramirez’s boots, helmet, rifle and IDtags are displayed in a place of honor ather memorial service April 21.

Pfc. Dan Balda4th BCT PAO

FORWARD OPERATING BASEFALCON, Iraq – Task Force BaghdadSoldiers paid tribute to a fallen com-rade at a memorial service here April9.

Cpl. Glenn Watkins, A Company,1st Battalion, 184th InfantryRegiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team,3rd Infantry Division, was killed inaction April 5 when his vehicle wasstruck by an improvised explosivedevice.

At the service, Lt. Col. PatrickFrey, 1/184th “Nightstalkers” com-mander, spoke about Watkins’ chil-dren. One of his sons is serving withthe 82nd Airborne Division, anotherson just recently joined the Navy andhis daughter is a member of theIsraeli Civil Defense Forces. Hisyoungest son is home schooled.

“His children go out into lifearmed with the best examples in lifethat American culture has to offer,”Frey said. “He was a quiet man, butwe remember him for his humor. Hewas Jewish, but he loved Christianrock and roll. He was a Soldier, buthe was no warmonger. His leader-ship, bearing and sacrifice served asthe perfect model for every Soldierhere.”

Watkins’ company commandershared his last conversation with theman who was remembered for hissmile.

“The last time I saw him was theevening of April 4 when he was get-ting water for his patrol,” said Capt.Keith Haviland. “I asked him how hewas doing. He replied, ‘I am doinggreat, sir.’ No sarcasm, no facetious-ness. It was just 100 percent genuine.This is the way I will always remem-ber him, a ‘Cool Hand Luke’ smile

and a passion for the brothers heserved.”

Staff Sgt. Steve Nunez metWatkins in 1998, when he first servedwith 1/184. This time around, Nunezwas his squad leader.

Watkins signed on to stay in Iraqanother year to fight with his oldfriends in the unit.

“Us old timers were glad to havehim back,” Nunez said. “He alwaysgot the job done, asking for nothingin return except a cup of coffee. I’llmiss you bro, see you when I gethome.”

Cpl. Ricardo Briquela, one ofWatkins’ best friends in the unit saidWatkins put his life on the line every-day because he knew it was the rightthing to do.

Briquela then read a letter Watkinswrote in case he didn’t make it homesafely:

“Please do not despair nor grievefor me. Be proud and talk highly ofme for I have done what I was calledto do. As a young boy watching ‘TheGreen Berets’ with John Wayne, Iknew a life in the military was my lifeand possibly my death. I feared notthe unknown and so I set forth on thisjourney knowing full well what itmight mean. I must go for now, standfirm and take up this fight. Oh yes, Iintend to fight hard for I have reasonto come home. If you are reading thisthen you know I have failed at mytask. Only life threw me a curve, aman seldom has a choice in the man-ner of his death. It is only the mannerin which he lives that is a mark of atrue warrior.”

Brizuela added, “I think he fits thebill. He was my friend, I will missyou, I will see you when I see you.”

Watkins is survived by his wife,Anne, his two sons, Andrew andJohn, and his daughter Alicia.

1/184 ‘Nightstalkers’ pay respects to fallen comrade

Pfc. Dan BaldaAbove: A Soldier assigned to 1/184 Inf. bows his head during prayer at Cpl. GlennWatkins’ memorial service April 9.Inset: Cpl. Glenn Watkins.


LeavenoSoldierbehind

Sgt. Matthew Maupin “I will not leave a fallen comrade”

These well known words from theWarrior Ethos ring true for

Sgt. Matt Maupin. Maupin is an Army Reserve Soldier

from the 724th Transportation Companywho was captured April 9, 2004 during

Operation Iraqi Freedom 2. Sgt. Maupin – we are still looking for

you and we will find you. You have not been forgotten.

Young MP remembered as caring, full of spiritPfc. Laura M. Bigenho 42nd MP Bde. PAO

CAMP FALCON, Iraq – For manymilitary police Soldiers, traveling upand down the notoriously dangerousroads of Baghdad day after day isvery difficult – both physically andemotionally.

However, nothing can compare tothe heartbreak and torment felt whenhaving to say a final “goodbye” to amodel Soldier and a wonderful friendwho positively influenced the lives ofso many of her comrades.

Soldiers from 170th MilitaryPolice Company, 504th MilitaryPolice Battalion, 42nd MilitaryPolice Brigade, of Fort Lewis, Wash.,were given precious time to pay theirlast respects to their fallen friend dur-ing a memorial service held April 22.

Pfc. Sam W. Huff, a militarypolicewoman with 170th MPCompany, died of injuries sustainedin Baghdad when an improvisedexplosive device detonated near thehumvee she was driving April 17.

Quickly filling the seats and liningthe walls at every available space,Huff’s fellow Soldiers crammedinside the chapel.

Attendees chatted and reflected onher short yet vivacious life whilemodern dance music, such as theBlack Eyed Peas’ “Hey Mama,” andOutkast’s “Hey Ya,” played in thebackground. Such upbeat and festivemusic was suitable for this youngwoman whose passions in life includ-ed dancing.

Lt. Col. James Switzer, 504th bat-talion commander, said he knew Huffwithin two weeks of her arrival at the170th.

He described her as being someonewho could light up a room with mere-ly a smile.

“Pfc. Huff was a unique individ-ual. She could lighten the mood ofany hardcore (noncommissioned offi-cer) and bring a smile to even an oldwarrior’s face,” Switzer said.

Capt. Robert Matthews, 170th MPCo. commander, agreed, adding thatthe vibrant Huff was like a little sisterto many of her peers, especially to theguys in her platoon.

“It’s true that we’re all Soldiers,but to the guys in first platoon, Samwas almost like a kid sister that theywanted to protect. She got along wellwith everyone.

“Her good nature, her constantsmile and winning attitude were con-tagious,” he continued. “She tookpride in her work and demandedexcellence from herself.”

If there was anybody who couldsincerely attest for Huff’s “happy-go-lucky” personality, as well as her loveof being a Soldier, it was squad leaderSgt. Sam James. Huff served asJames’ driver. Together, they partici-pated in countless missions; many ofwhich involved long days at Iraqipolice stations.

“You could tell that her parentsraised her well; not only by her strongmorals, but underneath that shell of abeautiful lady was a backbone made ofsteel.”

James described a non-typical situa-tion in which a 12-hour mission endedup turning into a 3-day operation.Huff, being “the kind of Soldier whomade being in the Army fun,” saidJames, responded to his orders withoutany question or hesitation.

When James broke the news to herabout having to stay for an undeter-mined amount of time, he instructed herto assist a fellow Soldier with getting the

necessary equipment onto a rooftop. James recalled Huff’s immediate

reply. “She said, ‘How much ammo does he

need, sergeant? How much ammo doeshe need?’” Stunned at her lack of com-plaint, James told her what was neededand that was the end of it.

“She walked away with a smile anddid her duty. That’s the kind of SoldierPfc. Huff was.”

Living her life to its fullest, Huff “puther whole heart into everything she did,”said Pfc. Ashley Lathers, one of Huff’sclose friends and a fellow first platoonSoldier.

“The girl would dance anywhere shewould get a chance. She’d dance withgreat pride and great confidence thatmost people lacked.”

Huff was also the type of person whowould always put her own happinessaside so that others would be happy,remembered Lathers.

“All she wanted was to be thatSoldier that everyone counted on. Littledid she know that what she was strivingfor, she already had.”

Pfc. Sam W. Huff will be laid to restin Virginia’s Arlington NationalCemetery April 29.

“An appropriate resting place for thisyoung hero,” added Switzer.

No doubt Huff will be dancingwith the angels.

Courtesy photoPfc. Sam Huff, 170th MP Co., flashes a grin before a mission. She died April 17from injuries sustained by an IED detonation.

Pfc. Laura M. BigenhoCapt. Robert Matthews, 170th MP Co. commander, grabs Pfc. Sam W. Huff’s ID tags, pausing to remember his fallen Soldier.


PST provides primary personnel protection at TajiSpc. Derek Del RosarioAvn. Bde. PAO

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – ABlackhawk touches down atCamp Taji’s airfield, and a manwith stars on his collar exits theaircraft. Meanwhile, in the dis-tance Soldiers are scanning theperimeter.

“Welcome to Camp Taji,sir,” says a Soldier from thewelcoming committee, accom-panying him to a sport utilityvehicle.

The vehicle with the generalexits the flight line along withcars with other VIPs.

Around the convoy areSoldiers in humvees withmounted crew-served weapons,scanning the areas outside toensure the official party’s safe-ty.

These Soldiers, whose con-tinuing diligence and focus are

necessary for these individuals’protection, are members of theAviation Brigade PersonalSecurity Team.

When high-profile peoplecome to Camp Taji, whether itis a U.S. general officer, Iraqidiplomat, or celebrity per-former, the eight-man PSTensures their protection — avery important job, accordingto Staff Sgt. Javier J. Blanco,noncommissioned officer incharge of the PST.

“We provide security for anyVIP who comes to this area ofoperations.” Blanco said. “Wehave a plan of protectiondepending on what they aredoing, where they are going, orwhat route they are taking.”

Sgt. Olantunde Olantunji, aPST crew serve weapons gun-ner in Headquarters andHeadquarters Company, Avn.Bde., understands the weight of

his team’sresponsibilities.

“We pick upVIPs from theairfield, and weknow we haveto do whateveris necessary toprotect them,”said Olantunji.“We are all veryserious aboutour job becausethe life of a per-son is in our hands,and we cannot afford to makeany mistakes.”

When someone under itssecurity is on the move, thePST ensures his safety alongthe route.

“We are on the lookout foranything suspicious or out ofplace,” Olantunji said. “Wealways have our eye out forpeople watching or suspi-

cious vehicles. We will alsomove people and vehicles outof the way when an areaneeds to be clear. When itcomes to security, we cannottake any chances.”

Providing this securityinvolves careful planning.

The PST has weekly meet-ings to go through drills. Asthe arrival date of a VIPgrows closer, the team meetsmore often.

“During meetings we willgo over such things as wherethe bunkers and hard build-ings are along the route,”Blanco said. “Sometimes wewill get short notice onarrivals, so we might onlyhave one day to prepare.”

Along with planning, thereare many things that have tobe done in preparation fortheir mission.

Preventative maintenancechecks have to be done onvehicles, weapons and com-munications, said Olantunji.

Because of its critical mis-sion, the PST has to be madeup of Soldiers who have highstandards.

The members of the teamwere selected by platoon ser-geants of HHC, said Blanco.

“They were selected basedon discipline and goodbehavior,” he explained.“We wanted high-speed

S o l d i e r s .They wereasked if theywanted to beon the teambecause wewanted tomake surethey wantedto be here.We are like abrotherhoodin whiche v e r y o n ewatches out

and helps each other.”Olantunji feels the PST

Soldiers have what it takes tohandle the responsibility oftheir jobs because of theirattentiveness.

“Our primary concern isfocus,” Olantunji said.“Everyone needs to stayfocused. We are not lettingdown our guard until the mis-sion is complete: when theVIP returns home safely.”

When it comes to person-nel security, Blanco said hisSoldiers need to have a com-bination of three characteris-tics: attention to detail, disci-pline and motivation.

“You need to be able to fol-low specific directions, dowhat is being told of you andperform well under both phys-ical and mental stress,” hesaid.

Despite the stress the jobmight bring, Olantunji said hewouldn’t trade his position.

Since his usual job is in apersonnel office, he saidbeing part of the PST giveshim a pleasant change.

“This is an experience of alifetime,” he said.“Someone’s life is on theline, it makes me realize,‘Wow, this is the real thing.’This is a great and differentexperience.”

Spc. Derek Del RosarioSgt. Olatunde Olantunji, HHC, Avn. Bde., mans the crew-served weapon on a humvee during thearrival of an Army general officer at the Camp Taji airfield.

“We are all very serious about our jobbecause the life of a person is in ourhands, and we cannot afford to make anymistakes.”

Sgt. Olantunde OlantunjiPST crew-served gunner, HHC, Avn. Bde.

Search uncovers weapons stockpilesStaff Sgt. Craig Zentkovich2nd BCT PAO

MADAIN, Iraq – Following anearly-morning cordon and search of acity south of Baghdad, Iraqi SecurityForces supported by Task ForceBaghdad Soldiers, discoveredweapons caches at two separate loca-tions Monday.

Prior to the search, Madain (alsoknown as Salman Pak) had for monthsbeen known as a terrorist staging ground

for improvised explosive device attacksagainst Iraqi and U.S. forces.

Items discovered and later destroyedby an explosive ordinance disposal teamfrom Task Force Baghdad’s 2nd BrigadeCombat Team, 3rd Infantry Division,included more than 50 82mm mor-tarshells, rocket-propelled grenades andlaunchers, rockets, high-explosiveartillery shells, and a pair of 250-poundRussian-made bombs.

Additionally, dozens of rigged IEDinitiation devices and spools of wire

were found in a nearby shack.A sports utility vehicle at the site con-

tained three 155mm artillery shellswired and packed with additional explo-sives.

Iraqi and U.S. forces provided securi-ty of the sites while EOD removed thethreat.

“The mission was very success-ful,” said Lt. Col. Michael Johnson,commander of 3rd Squadron, 7thCavalry Regiment. “The (Iraqiforces) were able to secure Salman

Pak … and find a large weaponscache where IED vehicle bombs werebeing manufactured.”

In the town center, Iraqi SecurityForces, numbering in the hundreds,celebrated after reclaiming a policestation that had not been occupied byIraqi Police personnel for months.

“The U.S. forces had a very smallpart in the operation,” Johnson said.“(3/7 Cav.) served as a quick reactionforce, if necessary. This was an allIraqi-planned and executed mission.”

Staff Sgt. Craig ZentkovichAbove: An Iraqi Army machine gunner maintains security of his sector during the early-morning Iraqi securityforces mission in Salman Pak April 18.Left: IA Soldiers, with the support of 3/7 Cav., secure an open area north of Salman Pak. Both units served as aquick reaction force for the Iraqi security forces assault on the insurgents in the town.


TF Baghdad elements team up as Division ReserveSpc. Brian P. HenrettaAvn. Bde. PAO

Pilots from 4th Battalion, 3rdAviation Regiment (AssaultHelicopter) have been working closelywith the 3rd Infantry Division Reserve,a quick reaction force, since arrivinghere to provide air transportation andsupport for the QRF.

The Division Reserve is a teamcomprised of tankers fromHeadquarters and 3rd Platoon, CCompany, 1st Battalion, 13th Armorand infantrymen from 2nd Platoon, GTroop, 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment, and teamed with 4/3 AHBfor OIF 3.

Their mission is to be on constantstandby and ready to move quickly toany area in 3rd Inf. Div.’s area of oper-ations by Blackhawk, humvees, M-1tanks, or Bradley Fighting Vehicles.

They are called upon to provideadditional security for troops who needit, being used as backup fightingpower.

They also secure facilities, areasand political rallies, go on patrols,recover downed aircraft, or relieveother units who may be doing any ofthese things.

The Soldiers who make up the QRFdidn’t know they would be doing thismission for their deployment untilafter they arrived at Camp Taji.

Many of the Soldiers are formertankers, so they had to train for days toprepare themselves for their new task,said 1st Sgt. Michael P. Summers,Team Cougar first sergeant.

Although the team will train contin-uously this year, they are now readyfor any mission by combining theirexperience in wheeled vehicles andarmor with the new air assault skillsthey have learned since arriving.

They have spent hours properlyentering and exiting stationary andmoving Blackhawks, and have con-ducted close quarter marksmanshipand reflexive fire training scenarios,Summers said.

The situation determines how theymove to where they’re needed. If theDivision Reserve needs to be some-where as fast as possible, they fly inBlackhawks. Sometimes they needheavy fire-power and in those casesthey would take tanks and Bradleys,said Summers.

4/3 Aviation Battalion has been veryhelpful in training and support to theDivision Reserve. They have had lotsof flight time and aircraft dedicated totheir mission, Summers added.

An example of this is a recent train-ing mission at an assault-range in theIraqi countryside to give the units bet-ter experience working with eachother.

During separate day and night mis-sions, pilots from 4/3 AHB flew intothe landing zone where the DivisionReserve dismounted and began con-ducting a patrol to a live-fire range.

The range simulated an urban combatsetting, said 1st Lt. Jeffrey Rini, a fieldsafety officer with C Co., 1/13Cavalry.

After engaging targets, the DivisionReserve QRF moved to a pickup zonewhere they mounted Blackhawks andmoved out of the area.

The partnership that has developedbetween 4/3 AHB and the DivisionReserve has been a great success so farand the two will continue supportingeach other throughout their deploy-ment.

Soldiers from the Division’s Ready Reserve, working with 4/3 AHB, evacuate a sim-ulated casualty over difficult terrain at an assault range.

Photos by Spc. Brian P. HenrettaAn assault team with C Co., 1/13 Armorprepares for a tactical movement acrossthe desert after being air-inserted by a 4/3AHB Blackhawk at an air-insertion andtactical-movement live-fire range.

Sgt. Kevin BromleyIraqi Army Soldiers line the parade field as they graduate from the Iraqi Army Support Services Institute. This is the first class to graduate from SSI and the skillsthey learned will help shift the Iraqi Army to completely autonomous security operations.

First class of Iraqi Soldiers graduate from logistics schoolSgt. Kevin Bromley3/1 AD PAO

TAJI, Iraq – More than one hun-dred Iraqi Soldiers officially becamelogistics specialists upon their gradu-ation from the Iraqi Army SupportServices Institute in Taji April 18.

The graduates stood on the hotpavement of the parade ground,proudly displaying Iraqi flags in theirformation.

The Soldiers learned the preciseskills necessary to re-supply and sus-tain their respective line units.

“Go forward to support your units,

I encourage you to continue to learn,”said one Iraqi officer addressing thegraduating class.

The skills taught at SSI are vital tothe Iraqi Army’s expanding role asthe security force for Iraq.

Previously, Iraqi Army units haverelied on Multi-National Forces’

logistical support when conductingday to day operations.

The logistics school is a joint oper-ation between Iraqi and AustralianForces. The Iraqi Army is movingtoward complete and autonomoussecurity operations with their ownlogistical support capabilities.

2nd Lt. Seth Kirchhoff6/8 Cav. PAO

BAGHDAD – Members of 6thBattalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th

Brigade Combat Team, took the firststeps toward the success of their newmission in Iraq April 18 – training the“Defenders of the Green Zone.”

The unit’s mission is to train the

Iraqi Army’s 1st and 3rd battalions,along with Headquarters Company ofthe 5th Brigade, 6th Division.

U.S. Soldiers will provide instruc-tion to Iraqi leaders referencing the

skills and leadership attributesrequired to train competent and suc-cessful Soldiers.

When all is said and done, 5thBde., 6th Div. will be capable of pro-tecting the International Zone and itssurrounding areas without assistancefrom the U.S. military.

During the first day of training atMuthana Airfield, located just northof the International Zone, Lt. Col.Michael Harris, 6th Bn., 8th Cav.Reg. commander, led the way as hiscavalrymen were introduced to theIraqi Soldiers they will work with forthe next eight weeks.

Although the link-up seemed awk-ward at first due to the language bar-rier, both sides appeared eager totrain and were ready to learn fromone another.

Most of the tasks the 1,000-plusIraqi Soldiers will learn consist ofbasic Soldier skills such as riflemarksmanship, battle drills, manningtraffic control points and first aid,said Maj. Chris Worrill, 6/8 Cav.’soperations officer.

“Our goal here is not to turn theIraqi Army into an American Army,but rather show the Iraqi leaders howwe conduct business and let themmake decisions on what tactics, tech-niques and procedures will work bestfor them,” Worrill said.


Spc. Erin Robicheaux256th BCT PAO

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – Forthe first time in six decades, themortar platoon of 2ndBattalion, 156th InfantryRegiment of the 256th BrigadeCombat Team, 3rd InfantryDivision, conducted an area-denial mission in combat onMarch 9.

It was the first such missionfor the brigade since World WarII.

Lt. Col. Conrad Gavel fromMandeville, La., the command-er of 2/156th, said he is proudof his Soldiers’ performance.

“This mortar platoon hasbeen a combat multiplier sincethe early days of our mobiliza-tion. They all scored ‘expert’on their mortar gunner’s exams,and have performed consistent-ly ever since,” he said.

Gavel claimed the lack ofopportunity to use indirect fireshas not affected the mortar pla-toon’s abilities to execute a suc-cessful mission. Though it hasbeen months since they con-ducted a live fire, their firstround was within 50 meters ofthe target and the adjustmentswere perfect. He said sincearriving in Iraq, the mortar pla-toon was tasked with otherduties and has performed thevarious jobs well.

“Their flexibility and profes-sionalism has been outstanding,and I’m proud to have themrepresent this task force,”Gavel said.

Staff Sgt. Randy Roaix,from Carencro, La., the mortarplatoon sergeant forHeadquarters Company,2/156th, said he’s glad hisSoldiers could make a signifi-

cant contribution to securingthe safety of their comrades.

“Area denial is all about tak-ing out the point of origin,where the enemy fires a lot ofindirect fire or rockets,” Roaixsaid. “We wanted the insur-gents to know that we can reachthem anytime, anywhere, and itseems like it had the effect thatwe were looking for.”

Roaix said the terrorists gotthe message, adding that thelocal citizens talked about it fora long time after the fact, andthey now know that U.S.Forces can get to them if need-ed.

Roaix explained that eventhough the platoon was split upfor various duties when theyarrived in Baghdad six monthsago, the mortar infantrymen didnot forget where they camefrom. He said some of his guyswere placed on a personal secu-rity detachment, while otherswere sent to a light infantry pla-toon. When they came togeth-er for the historical mission,however, they never missed abeat.

“I think it says a lot about theplatoon that they haven’tworked together for months,but still performed successful-ly,” Roaix said.

Sgt. Ryan McCool, fromPrairieville, La., is the firedirection control for the 2/156thmortar platoon. Roaix hasendorsed him as the most expe-rienced in the brigade.

Prior to deployment, allFDCs were required to be certi-fied on an advanced computersystem necessary for conduct-ing mortar missions. ThreeFDCs from 2/156th were certi-fied on the first try.

They were the only three in

the entire 256th to do so. In addition, McCool was the

best performer in the brigade. The process of a mortar mis-

sion begins in the field with theforward observers. They find atarget and call in to the FDCwith a location. McCool’s jobis to compute the data, plot thecoordinates and communicatethe mission down to the gun.He said they performed twomissions March 9: area denial(or high explosive) which wasthe primary focus, and an illu-mination mission.

Illuminations are conductedat night and provide light forthe forward observers, whohopefully, can catch someonein the act of emplacing animprovised explosive device.

McCool said both missionswere successful.

“With the high explosivemission, we were right on tar-get, and we hit everything we

shot at,” he said. “The illumi-nation mission was successfulin that we accurately engagedour targets, but the forwardobservers didn’t see anyone outthere.”

When McCool called thedirections down to the guns,there was a rush of combatboots as the crew with theweapon prepared the coordi-nates for fire.

Sgt. Chad Welch, fromPineville, La., was the squadleader who received the direc-tions. He said once the callcame in, one would never knowthis was their first mission sincearriving in Baghdad.

“When the FDC gaveinstructions, the gunner,assistant gunner, and ammu-nition bearer went to work toset the fuse and prepare thegun for fire,” he said.

When McCool shoutedthose magic words, “Fire for

effect!” the round wasdropped and the mortarinfantrymen of 2/156th madehistory for the brigade.

Welch said that at times,firing mortars can be a littlestressful.

“The squad leader’s job isto observe for safety andaccuracy, and at the sametime, receive commands fromthe FDC and give them downto the gunner,” said Welch.“You really have to payattention to everything goingon around you.”

Roaix said, as a leader, hewas very anxious when thefire directions were given.

After the first round wentoff, however, the crew wasright on top of it, givingRoaix a chance to finallyrelax.

“That was the longest 34-and-a-half seconds of mylife,” he said.

Mortar mission bde.’s first since WWII

Spc. Erin RobicheauxSpc. Camille Fossier, from Lafayette La, “hangs a round” March 9 for the first 256th BCT combatmortar mission since WWII. Fossier scored as an “expert” on mortar gun qualifications in 2004.

6/8 Cav. trains Iraq’s ‘Defenders of the Green Zone’

Courtesy photoMembers of the IA’s 1st and 3rd battalions and Headquarters Company, 5th Brigade, 6th Division stand in formation April 18.

3rd Inf. Div.develops relationship with Baghdad U

Information Operations Cell StaffSpecial to The Marne Express

BAGHDAD – BaghdadUniversity has received school sup-plies and equipment from the 3rdInfantry Division as part of the divi-sion’s new relationship with univer-sity officials.

Soldiers made two trips to the uni-

versity to deliver tables, chairs, com-puter equipment, and division’sInformation Operations cell donated3,000 library and reference booksand magazines along other varioussupplies for student use March 22.

The division made the deliveriesas a sign of good will toward thefuture politics, economics and uni-versity leaders of Iraq.

The 3rd Inf. Div. realizes that thefuture of Iraq is in the hands of itsuniversities, and that the suppliesprovided will help students reachtheir educational goals.

The Marne Division is lookingforward to strengthening its relation-ship with Baghdad University and itstands ready to assist the school’sgrowth in the community.


Sgt. 1st Class Peter ChadwickPlatoon leader 2nd Lt. Robert Schlau, 550th Area Support Medical Company, plays a short game of “keep away” with children in Taji. Schlau participated in a Civil Affairsmission to Taji area communities to provide basic health care assessments. Soldiers also distributed donated toys to the children during their medical mission.

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One million gallons, still pumpingSpc. Brian P. HenrettaAvn. Bde. PAO

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The forward arming refuel-ing point provides the lifeblood that keeps AviationBrigade’s helicopters in the air.

The Soldiers of 3-5 Platoon, Headquarters andService Company, 603rd Aviation SupportBattalion hit a milestone April 6 by pumping theirmillionth gallon of fuel since taking over refuelingoperations, quicker than anyone expected.

While the Soldiers saw it as just another part ofthe day’s work, leadership was extremely proud, ofthe professional job performed so far by all, andhow quickly they reached this milestone.

“We have been working at a very high pace, butpeople didn’t think we would have pumped thismuch so quickly,” said 2nd Lt. Esperanza George,3-5 platoon leader. “My troops are something spe-cial. I thank my noncommissioned officers forthat. Without them I don’t think we could achievewhat we did. They are very motivating and makesure the job gets done safely.”

There haven’t been any accidents at the FARPsince the 603rd ASB took over duties.

This can be attributed to daily safety briefingsand equipment checks, according to Sgt. 1st ClassAntonio Martinez, 3-5 platoon sergeant.

When a helicopter lands in the FARP, a refuel-

ing team springs to action and like clockwork, eachSoldier knows his role, to allow for a quick turn-around of aircraft.

They supply fuel for all coalition helicopters inthe Baghdad area, including Navy, Marine andBritish aircraft.

This is a critical mission to the coalition and avi-ation brigade because if they can’t refuel, itgrounds everything, Martinez said.

George’s hard working Soldiers are proud of allthey have done in a very short amount of time.

“We have a great sense of accomplishment.This is just us doing our job, but we’ve worked ourtails off and done it exceptionally well,” saidArthur Butt, a petroleum supply specialist withHSC, 603rd ASB.

“The past few months have been a total teameffort on our part. We have the fuelers, truck driv-ers, armament specialists out there keepingextremely busy to pump that much fuel so quick-ly,” said Patrick Wiley, an aviation refueler withHSC, 603rd.

With one million gallons pumped in such a shortamount of time, how much fuel can this unit expectto pump throughout OIF 3?

“Last time I was here we pumped 3.8 million in11 months,” said Martinez. “If we keep up thepace we’re at now, we could hit five million thistime.”

Spc. Brian P. HenrettaPvt. Junius Richard, a refueler with HSC, 603rd ASB,screws on the fuel cap to a Blackhawk after the FARPpumped one million gallons of fuel.

2/14 Inf. medic takes control in emergency, saves livesSpc. Matthew McLaughlin12/10 Inf. PAO

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq — Now isthe time, he thought to himself as hegazed in shock at his wounded com-rades. This was the reason for all ofhis training as a medic; the reason hejoined the Army; possibly the reasonfor his very existence.

Without hesitation, he grabbed hisequipment and raced across a fieldtowards his destiny.

Pfc. Jacob Torres, a medic with 2ndBattalion, 14th Infantry Regiment,tested his training and his mettle whenhe treated nine Soldiers and Marinesafter an insurgent attack Sept. 28.

Soldiers from 2/14 Inf. found animprovised explosive device while onpatrol along Route Tampa in Baghdad.

They secured the area and waitedfor the explosive ordinance detach-ment team to arrive.

While waiting for EOD, a Marineconvoy heading towards Falluja

approached. There was no way aroundthe road and the Marines were in arush, so they decided to pass, againstthe Soldiers’ advice.

The convoy passed between the IEDand a 2/14 Inf. humvee. Suddenly theIED detonated, hitting a Marine truckcontaining several Marines.

“The whole passenger side of theseven-ton (truck) collapsed,” saidTorres, a Bakersville, Calif., native. “Iwas about 100 meters away in a field.I saw everyone was down and I tookmy (medic) bag and went running.”

Torres said the reality of the situa-tion did not hit him immediately.

“At first I was nervous,” he said. “Irealized all these people were hurt. Ittook a moment to register that I wasthe one who had to help them. No oneelse could do it. Once I started withthe first patient I knew what to do.”

Sgt. Shawn Coyle, a fire directioncenter Soldier from Quincy, Ill., saidTorres took complete control of the sit-uation. He immediately tended to the

most seriously wounded patient, aMarine hit in the armpit with shrapnel.

All eyes turned to Torres for help.He was not without help, however.Fellow Soldiers and Marines assistedTorres as he went from patient topatient.

“I had a lot of help from everyonethere,” Torres said. “Two femaleMarines were injured but were still try-ing to help.”

Although Torres was one of the jun-ior-ranking Soldiers present, everyonefollowed his lead and obeyed hisorders, Coyle said.

“Rank goes out the window, andthey have to understand that,” headded. “(Torres) took control of thewhole situation. It was amazing howwell he did under pressure.”

Torres stabilized the Marine, but hedied later during surgery. The medichad more patients to tend to, however,and he couldn’t reflect on conse-quences — or names and ranks for thatmatter.

“Everything happened so fast, Idon’t remember faces,” Torres said.“It was just a blur. People said ‘you didthis, you did that.’ I don’t remember.”

He couldn’t remember faces or evenwhat he did, but weeks later Torrescould still explain in detail everyinjury he treated.

In all, Torres treated nine Soldiersand Marines.

All this from a private first classonly months into his first deployment,Coyle said.

“He never did anything like this in areal world situation,” he said. “I bragto other Soldiers about him. I said,‘You should have seen him.’ We wantto have him out with us every time.”

For his bravery, Torres was awardedthe Combat Medic Badge.

He said he is proud of his perform-ance and glad he could help his com-rades in arms.

“It feels good, like I did something,”Torres said. “I didn’t feel like I wasdoing my job until then.”


Spc. Brian P. HenrettaAvn. Bde. PAO

CAMP TAJI, Iraq –Information is a key to winningthe War on Terrorism, but with-out the proper communicationchannels to share that informa-tion, it becomes useless.

That’s why a battalion com-munications shop is critical foroperations in Iraq and why theS-6 cell with Headquarters andHeadquarters Company, 3rdBattalion, 3rd AviationRegiment (Attack Helicopter)is so helpful to the interactionsof the battalion.

The Soldiers who work inthe S-6 have been working at ahectic pace since arriving toCamp Taji, partly because theydidn’t have the luxury of fallingin on an adequate supply of pre-existing equipment, or evenbuildings to house their equip-ment.

In both their headquartersbuilding and tactical operationscenter, the Soldiers had toinstall everything themselves toget the various systems operat-ing.

“We had to completely startfrom scratch,” said Sgt. JefferyL. Wood, a communicationsteam chief with HHC, 3/3AHB. “Our headquartersbuilding has been under reno-vations and didn’t have anyinternet wiring, so we have torun cables and knock holes in

the sheetrock walls to install it.” The members of the S-6

team are also installing ArmedForces Network-ready cableoutlets in each of the rooms intheir headquarters building, aswell as building an educationcenter.

The education center is forSoldiers to visit during their offtime to take on-line Army cor-respondence courses, saidWood.

While 3/3 AHB’s headquar-ters has required wiring over-hauls, its TOC needed an exten-sive facelift to become opera-tional.

“We had to take out entirewalls,” said Spc. Rambo Rapu,a communications specialistwith HHC. “The room was toosmall to hold everyone requiredto perform tactical operationsand aircraft control, so wemade it bigger and installed allthe computer, telephone andradio equipment.”

After spending the first fewmonths of the deployment run-ning wires and setting up equip-ment, Soldiers from the S-6 arefar from done with their impor-tant mission.

The current phase of opera-tions – maintaining and protect-ing the equipment – may beeven more important, Rapusaid.

“Now we work on stoppingnew viruses from entering thenetwork and troubleshooting

computer problems,” he added.“Virus protection is so impor-tant because we can’t have any-thing hidden on any govern-ment computers to slow themdown or compromise the mis-sion.”

The communication equip-ment is used by pilots and con-trollers.

Flight operations informa-

tion is then relayed to the TOC,as well as received and trans-mitted by unmanned aerialvehicles.

The various tasks performedby the communications special-ists are crucial to the battalion’smission and their efforts havenot gone unnoticed.

“(The Soldiers) have beenworking hard from Kuwait

until now,” said Capt. Carlos E.Davis, 3/3 AHB signal officer.“They put all of this equipmenttogether themselves and haveaccepted great responsibilityand long work hours to get ourcommunications working.Without their work and the con-tinuing efforts of the guysworking in the TOC, all com-munication is in the dark.”

IA bomb company’s efforts save livesSpc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.1st BCT PAO

The 30th Iraqi Army Brigade’s bomb companyis working hard to make the streets safer for the cit-izens of Iraq.

What started from a small group of IraqiSoldiers grew into a company of six officers and 86

Soldiers, said Brig. Gen. Abdul-Jabbar SalehRabiyeh, 30th IA Bde. commander.

Rabiyeh said the newly formed bomb companyhas already proven itself worthy.

“In spite of the small size of the company, theyled a big operation during the election,” Rabiyehsaid. “The election was successful with the com-pany protecting the polling center.”

The election was one of the company’s manysuccesses since its activation Jan. 1, said Maj. QaisAbdul Qadir, the bomb company commander.

“Our company has finished so many duties inspite of the short time since its establishment,” saidAbdul Qadir. “This company has achieved six per-fect training stages in cooperation with friendlyforces. Over 100 bombs and (improvised explo-sive devices) have been cleared and more than athousand meters of road has been protected andfenced.”

Coalition Forces leaders who work with the IAhave noticed the progress and see growth in theIA’s future. They are confident in the IA’s abilitiesto run the show.

“These guys are doing a great job,” said Maj.Kelly Donna, 1st Brigade Combat Team militarytransition team officer-in-charge.

“We see progress everyday and they are great

guys to work with. I would feel comfortable stay-ing out here with these guys,” Donna said.

Iraqi army leaders anticipate much growth in thefuture too, Abdul Qadir said.

The recent dedication of their new headquartersbuilding in Tikrit April 10 was an indication of thebomb company’s growth.

With the increasing size of the company, it desper-ately needed a headquarters from which it could moreefficiently run its operation, said Abdul Qadir.

“This center will enable the personnel of our com-pany to do their duties under the supervision of theengineering units of the Coalition Forces,” he said. Weare preparing more headquarters in Tikrit, Bayji,Samarra, Balad, Ad Dawr and Ad Dhuluiyah.”

Abdul Qadir said he feels his company must bedoing well because it’s beginning to draw attentionfrom anti-Iraqi forces.

“Our company is a big target for the terrorists,”Abdul Qadir said. “We know this because so manyofficers and Soldiers have been wounded and manyvehicles destroyed.”

Rabiyeh said he hopes for continued support fromCoalition Forces to enable the further growth of hisown forces. He said a stronger force is the only wayhe can guarantee the continued safety and stability ofthe Iraqi people in his area of operation.

Spc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.Salahaddin governor Hamed Hamoud Al Shakti cuts aribbon at a ceremony for the opening of the 30th IABomb Company's new heaquarters in Tikrit April 10.

3/3 Avn. commo shop keeps battalion connected

Spc. Brian P. HenrettaSpc. Rambo Rapu, a communications specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Company,3/3 Attack Helicopter Battalion, installs internet cable in the server room.

Task Force Liberty News BriefsCordon and

search yields cacheJISR NAFT, Iraq – The Iraqi Army’s

6th Battalion, 3rd Brigade found a cachein a small village northwest of Jisr Naftin Diyala Province April 27.

After receiving small-arms fire, theIA lead element cordoned off the areafor a search. The search yielded a bookon bomb making, improvised explosivedevice-making materials and twoweapons.

Mayor, Coalition join for school supply missionBALAD RUZ, Iraq – The mayor of

Balad Ruz delivered school supplies tostudents in two schools within BaladRuz in Diyala Province April 27.

He was escorted by lraqi Police andSoldiers from Task Force Liberty’s278th Regimental Combat Team. Thesupplies were donated and mailed bySoldiers’ family members in the UnitedStates.

IPs, TF Liberty Soldiers visit village

IMAN WELLS, Iraq – Iraqi Policeand Soldiers from Task Force Liberty’s1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery, con-

ducted a visit to homes in Iman Wells,south of Buhriz in Diyala Province,April 28.

This was the first time that IPs and TF1-10 visited Iman Wells in a large num-ber. The police and TF 1-10 Soldiersshanded out numerous soccer balls andbeanie babies.

TF Liberty conducts villageengagement,

project assessment ALY MAT, Iraq – Task Force Liberty

Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 69thArmor, inspected and assessed the grav-el laid down on a road in Aly Mat inDiyala Province April 24.

The road allows for safer conditionsand more traffic on the road that leads toan elementary school.

Man detained in Citadel Market Place

KIRKUK, Iraq – Azadi policedetained one individual accused of ille-gally selling weapons and ammunitionin the Citadel Market Place April 27.

The detention occurred during a jointpatrol by Azadi police and Task ForceLiberty Soldierss. The suspect wastransported to the Azadi police station

for further questioning.

Medical mission comes to Abu Kurjay and ShahalABU KURJAYAND SHAHAL, Iraq

– Various healthcare providers cametogether for two days to make a differ-ence in the lives of villagers in AbuKurjah and Shahal in Kirkuk ProvinceApril 11 and 12.

Local healthcare providers and TaskForce Liberty medical personnel identi-fied chronic problems, administeredimmunizations and offered health edu-cation.

Taza City mayor hosts footbridge opening

TAZA, Iraq – The Taza mayor andcity council members officially openeda new footbridge allowing pedestrians towalk easily to the market area in KirkukProvince April 23.

The bridge is expected to create eco-nomic benefits for the community. Theconstruction of the bridge is the result ofcontracts awarded by Coalition Forces.

IPs conduct first independent IED sweep

HAWIJAH, Iraq – The Iraqi Police

explosive ordnance detachment inHawijah conducted independent opera-tions after receiving a tip on an impro-vised explosive device in KirkukProvince April 23.

This is the first known independentresponse to a tip received internally inthe Iraqi Security Forces in Hawijah.

Kidnappers arrested in Al Wasity

AL WASITY, Iraq – An IraqiEmergency Response Unit team withCoalition Forces support detained threeindividuals suspected to be involved inkidnapping and ransom activities in AlWasity in Kirkuk Province April 26. Aprevious kidnap victim identified one ofthe detained suspects as her captor.

IA Soldiers train on squad and team tasks

BALAD, Iraq – Soldiers from theIraqi army’s 210th Battalion trained ontheir proficiency in team and squadtasks during training April 16 on aCoalition Forces base near Balad. TaskForce Liberty Soldiers trained their Iraqiarmy counterparts on how to maneuveron an enemy position and react to sniperfire.


Spc. Ben BrodyMaj. Gen. William G. Webster Jr., Task Force Baghdad commander, administers the oath of enlistment to Staff Sgt. Robert Valley, Jr., Staff Sgt. Carlos Parkerand Spc. Nicholas Powell, all from 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery Regiment, in a ceremony at Camp Loyalty, Iraq, April 16.

‘Keep me in the 3rd Division ...’‘Keep me in the 3rd Division ...’

Minnesota leadership visits National Guard SoldiersSpc. Erin Robicheaux256th BCT PAO

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq —Maj. Gen. Lawrence Shellito,adjutant general of theMinnesota National Guard,visited Baghdad April 22 todiscuss the mission of BCompany, 134th SignalBattalion, 34th InfantryDivision, attached to 256thBrigade Combat Team.

The day began with break-fast with Soldiers of B Co.,134th, followed by a tour ofthe unit’s facilities.

Capt. Shelley Hermes, BCo. commander, said shewanted Shellito to see thegood work her Soldiers havedone since arriving inBaghdad.

“My purpose was to havehim go to the heart of eachplatoon, so we took him tocertain spots and allowed ourSoldiers to brief him on theirmissions and successes.”Hermes said.

Shellito’s reaction to theJoint Land Attack CruiseMissile Defense ElevatedNetted Senor System, was agrin from ear to ear. TheJLENS is an air surveillancesystem which allows the oper-ator to see action in the field.

Sgt. Holly Timmer, aJLENS operator with B Co.,explained the training the unitreceived while they preparedto deploy.

“He was impressed withour capabilities and said thatwe were a good asset thatneeded to be utilized to ourentire potential,” Timmer said.“We’re the first company inthe 34th ID to work with theJLENS system.”

Overall, B Co. is the thirdgroup to ever go through thetraining, and for a while, were

the only group in theatertrained on the system.

Shellito also toured thecompany’s node center, whichchannels all secured and unse-cured voice communication.

Staff Sgt. Marty Byrne, anode center switch supervisor,said his platoon is very effi-cient and plays a vital role inthe mission of the Army.

“We link between 10,000and 14,000 phone calls daily,and our phones are up over 99percent of the time, 24 hours aday and seven days a week,”Byrne said.

At the motor pool, Shellitoquestioned Staff Sgt. KevenVonrump, a B Co. mechanic,about the add-on armor for thehumvees. Vonrump describedthe pros and cons, and alongwith other Soldiers, gave thegeneral a better understandingof their functions.

Hermes said she believesthe visit was a successful one,and said she felt Shellito wasboth satisfied and impressedwith the progress.

“He thought we had veryintelligent Soldiers who wereon top of the situation andexperienced at doing their jobsand performing well, saidHermes. “He was very happythat we’ve been as successfuland done as much for thebrigade as we can. I thinkhe’ll take this back to theStates.”

Shellito described B Co. asa unit that has the ability to getthings done, and he particular-ly emphasized to the unit theneed to reflect on their sur-roundings sometimes.

“As we drove up here, wesaw all the events that we’veseen on the news for the pasttwo years,” he said. “You areliving in the middle of histo-ry.”

Photos by Sgt. Thomas BenoitTop: Maj. Gen. Lawrence Shellito, adjutant gener-al of the Minnesota National Guard, had breakfastand conversation with Soldiers from B Co., 134thSig. Bn. Shellito traveled to Iraq to witness first-hand how his Soldiers are assisting in the war onterrorism.Above: Shellito surrounds himself with capablemechanics from B Co., 134th.Right: Shellito shakes hands and thanks Soldiers.

Spc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.1st BCT PAO

SAMARRA, Iraq – Soldiersof 3rd Battalion, 69th ArmorRegiment, along with 1stBattalion, 15th InfantryRegiment and 5th Battalion, 7thCavalry began their missionssupporting Operation ForsythPark outside the city of Samarrastarting April 17.

“We’re actually looking forforeign fighters,” said Maj. PatWalsh, 3/69 Armor operationsofficer.

The Soldiers are also tryingto determine the sphere ofinfluence any foreign fightersmay have had over the peoplewho live in these rural areas,Walsh said.

This operation is meant togather information more than itis meant to make arrests orengage any enemy.

“Our success isn’t deter-

mined by the amount of indi-viduals we have detained,”Walsh said. “We have been ableto get a positive influence notonly for Coalition Forces, butfor the Iraqi Security Forces aswell.”

With the help of the ISF,much more progress is beingmade than during OperationIraqi Freedom 1 and 2.

“This is really the first con-tact these people have had withSoldiers since the first OIF,”Walsh said. “Coalition Forcesand Iraqi Security Forces aredriving together. They arespeaking their language andasking questions about not onlyforeign fighters, but how theycan help or how we can helpthem.”

This type of mission is a bigchange from what the Soldiersare used to doing.

“These guys have been inthe city fighting insurgents,

now they are out in the desert,”Walsh said.

“Our guys are used to doingpatrols in Samarra, which is apretty big city,” said Capt. RyanWylie, B Company, 3/69 Armorcommander. “(They) are reallygetting a good feel for thediversity around the city. They

get experience from operatingin the urban areas, and from thisrecent operation we have beenworking primarily in a ruralarea.”

Walsh said the change inmission not only benefits theSoldiers with a new kind ofenvironment, but deters the ter-

rorists from operating in an areathey once thought was safe forthem.

“We wanted to switch upand do something completelydifferent,” Walsh said. “Wewanted to let any terroristsknow we will deny the enemysanctuary.”


Soldiers patrol new environmentFrom crowded cities to opendesert, insurgents’ safehouses are being sought out

Photos by Spc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.Above: Soldiers from 3/69 Armor roll down the street while on patrol in the city of Samarra April 21.Below: 3/69 Soldiers pull security during a short stop while supporting Operation Forsyth Park.

Roughrider mechanics ‘keep y’all rolling’Spc. Ben Brody2nd BCT PAO

CAMP LOYALTY, Iraq – Thesound of cranking ratchets, rumblingengines and shrieking timing beltscan almost always be heard in onespot on Camp Loyalty.

At the Headquarters andHeadquarters Company, 2nd BrigadeCombat Team motor pool, 11mechanics work long, strenuoushours maintaining the brigade’s vehi-cles.

“We’re working hard to keep theunit mobile and sustain our combatpower,” said Staff Sgt. Keith Kerrick,HHC, 2nd BCT shop foreman. “Wekeep y’all rolling.”

Kerrick, from Washington, D.C.,said he often works hand in handwith other Loyalty motor pools tosecure needed parts, rather than wait-ing weeks for orders to be filled.

The motor pool also handles all ofthe brigade’s attached units and theirvehicles – units like Civil Affairs,Psychological Operations, personalsecurity details and Air Force detach-ments. All in all, they are currentlyresponsible for about 70 vehicles,and every week, they get more.

Everything from humvees, light

medium tactical vehicles, M577armored personnel carriers, M88recovery vehicles, M2 Bradleys andgenerators can be found in variousstates of disassembly during the dayin the motor pool.

“It’s a good team, a good set ofpeople, squared away (noncommis-sioned officers),” said Pvt. UriahJohn, HHC, 2nd BCT, generatormechanic. “I’d stay 20 years righthere with this team if I could.”

John, from St. Croix, U.S. VirginIslands, said he thinks Fort Stewartand the 3rd Infantry Division is agood place for a Soldier to start acareer.

“It’s tough here, you get put to thetest mentally and physically,” hesaid. “But the pressure makes youperform at a higher level.”

During a typical day, mechanicsupgrade vehicles with armor andother equipment, while performingorganizational-level preventativemaintenance checks and services,according to Spc. Luis Crespo, HHC,2nd BCT motor pool supply special-ist.

Crespo, from San Lorenzo, PuertoRico, has responsibilities that includeordering parts for vehicles and issu-ing them to mechanics.

A normal day at the motor poolruns until dusk, and judging by thesweat pouring off of the mechanics,the days are demanding.

The group usually tackles fourvehicles per day that are scheduledfor routine maintenance, then dealswith whatever repair issues pop up.

Sometimes the crew performsmajor repairs on up to ten vehicles aday.

“We have a lot of attachments thatwe’re responsible for, but the teamreally comes together and we have alittle fun,” said Staff Sgt. HarryAnderson, HHC, 2nd BCT, motorpool noncommissioned-officer-in-charge. “We try to make it a homeaway from home here and keep agood atmosphere.”

Anderson, from Sumter, S.C., saidhe believes the key to his team’sunity is good communication – and agood sense of humor. He said hismechanics know when it’s okay tokid around and when it’s time to beserious.

“We have Soldiers risking theirlives every day, using vehicles all thetime,” John said. “It’s important noone breaks down out there in thecombat zone, or gets hurt because offaulty safety equipment.”

Spc. Ben BrodySpc. Dejuan Bryant, an HHC, 2 BCT light-wheeledvehicle mechanic, works on a humvee's exhaustsystem at Camp Loyalty April 7.


times it’s been used as a dump-ing ground. We get out thereand make sure there haven’tbeen any caches placed or any-body trying to cross the river.It’s one of the main infiltrationroutes we worry about whencoming outside the GreenZone.”

Upon arriving at the dump-ing ground, some of the 1/1Soldiers secured the perimeterwhile others searched foritems such as weapons, unex-ploded ordnance and an aban-doned bunker. With somecoaching from 4/64 Soldiers,the IA troops were able to

complete the mission withouta hitch.

The next several stopsalong the way were what Hill,a Newell, N.C., native, called“meet and greet” areas — theresidential sections of the citywhere Soldiers take some timeto feel the pulse of the com-

munity.“We get out and walk

around, talk to the local popu-lace, go to the local store,maybe buy a soda,” Hill said.“We hang out and talk to them,see if they’ve had any prob-lems, stuff like that.”

As the three-vehicle convoymoved from place to place, 1/1Soldiers moved confidentlyand efficiently, quick to carryout instructions given to themby their 4/64 comrades. Sincemost of the Iraqi Soldiersspeak little English, an inter-preter goes along on each mis-sion to communicate betweenthe two units.

Even without an interpreter,though, the smiles on the IASoldiers’ faces speak volumesabout their pride in their newjobs and their desire to contin-ue to get better at what theydo.

“They’re very proud peo-ple,” said 2nd Lt. Bill Evans, aB Company, 1st Battalion,184th Infantry Regiment,California National Guard pla-toon leader whose unit alsoworks with 1/1. “They wantto learn. We seem to do a lotfor them these days, but wehave to wean them from that,we have to sever those ties sothey can do this on their own.”

Sgt. Marcus Brister, a DCo., 4/64 squad leader, said hethinks the Iraqis’ biggest

improvements come fromtheir daily involvement in thesecurity missions.

“At first, it was like herdingcats,” he said of his unit’s ini-tial work with the IA Soldiers.“You could tell them what todo and where they need to go,but they’re going to take theirown way to get there.”

Evans said the IA Soldiers’zeal has caused the biggestchallenges in the way theyconduct operations.

“If we get (intelligence) onsomeone we’re looking for,we go through a whole (oper-ation order) before we takeany action,” he said. “But ifwe send them out just to getinformation on the person,they’ll come back, all excit-ed, with him tied up, and say,‘We got him!’ We’re tryingto teach them that that’s notthe way we do things.”

“They want to do theirjobs,” Evans, from Torrance,Calif., added, “but they justdon’t have the guidance. Youcan’t easily undo whatSaddam did over 35 years.”

Still, little by little, theU.S. Soldiers’ joined effortsare proving to be essential inreaching the ultimate goal ofturning Iraq’s security over toits own Soldiers, and theneed for Serrano, Mata andFoutch’s Bradley is growingsmaller and smaller.

PATROL, continued from page 1

GUNS, continued from page 1

Spc. Emily J. WilsoncroftSoldiers from 1/1 IA and 4/64th Armor dismount and head out on a routine patrol in Baghdad April 8.

with chief coverage of a grid area.Basically we have an observer outthere with sight of six or eight kilome-ters,” Lowry said. “When the roundbursts he uses it to identify targets. Wealso use the round as a distraction forthe enemy. The enemy will look up andwatch the round. It also gives us anidea of who is doing wrong. You can’treally hear the round until it is rightover you, and by then it is too late forthem to disguise what they are doing.”

The artillery Soldiers got the intel-ligence for their area of fire from agroup of special scouts who observethe area well before the fire mission.

“We were firing on predeterminedtargets,” Lowry said. “Our fire sup-port element got information from the(long range surveillance detachment)that there was high insurgent activityin the area.”

After the illumination rounds, 1/41tested 15 rocket assisted projectiles.

A RAP goes beyond what a regularround could reach due to the rocketpropulsion.

“It will go two or three kilometersfurther, depending on the size of thecharge, which increases our range’”Lowry said. “Not only does this keepour Soldiers safer, but it saves timeon having to move forward to engagetargets that under normal circum-stances would be out of our range.”

Since the artillery rounds are soexpensive, the platoon leader has toaccount for all the rounds beforepacking up, Dorffeld said. “We haveto send a message in to higher-upbefore we can leave. They want tomake sure everything went smoothly.I don’t want to go back with anyrounds.”

The platoon command team con-sidered the exercise a success for sev-eral different reasons.

“It was a very successful night,”

Lowry said. “For one it was a differ-ent operation that we don’t normallyget to do. Our main mission is terraindenial and counter fire. It was amorale booster for the Soldiers.”

Artillery elements are very power-ful and destructive. There is muchpreparation that goes into a fire mis-sion.

The Soldiers are trying to avoiddamage to anything that is notexpected to be in the impact area ofthe rounds.

“Basically we are trying to win thehearts and minds of the Iraqi people,”Lowry said. “We have to go out thereand observe an area and make surewe don’t kill a guy tying to repair anirrigation ditch. We are trying tomake allies, not enemies. If we makethe whole country suffer we aren’tgoing to be able to accomplish that.Neither can we do that if we are caus-ing damage to Iraqi property.”

Spc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.1st Lt. John Dorffeld waits on the radiofor a call from Soldiers operating theguns that they are ready to fire a round.

Soldiers fund projects, compensate for damagesSpc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.1st BCT PAO

SAMARRA, Iraq – Iraq is a combat zone. Ina combat zone, accidental damage to privateproperty and civilian injuries are inevitable.

When Coalition Forces are at fault, they arewilling to pay restitution to the victims of theseaccidents as long as they have proof of the inci-dent.

Soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 69th ArmorRegiment Iraqi Security Forces liaison and civilaffairs office ventured to downtown Samarra toreview claims by Iraqis and distribute funds.

“When people have damage to property, orsomeone in their family is killed as a result of ouroperations, they present evidence to us,” said 1stLt. Doug Maritato, 3/69 Armor ISF liaison offi-cer in charge. “This evidence can be documents,photographs, medical records or death certifi-cates.”

Since most of the evidence presented by theIraqi nationals is written in Arabic, an interpreteris needed to translate the evidence and the dia-logue spoken between the Coalition Forces andthe Iraqis.

“We have an interpreter to help us look overall the peoples’ evidence,” said Staff Sgt. JasonSmith, the ISF liaison noncommissioned officerin charge. “With his help, we determine whetheror not the evidence is legitimate. If it is, we signoff on it and give them a certain amount of funds.

The funds for the Iraqis come from two differ-ent sources, Smith said. One is the Iraqi relief

fund, which is used to build projects that aid theIraqi economy. The other is the commander’semergency response program bulk fund. Thesefunds are used as restitution for damaged proper-ty and bodily harm.

“Civil affairs works with the municipalities tonegotiate payment for temporary extra employ-ees,” Smith said. “This is a short term solution.Once the interim government gets control of theeconomy, they will do their own hiring from theirfunds.”

The IRRF funds are distributed by a highercommand, said Capt. Rod McCauley, 411th CivilAffairs Battalion. “The Iraqis propose new proj-ects, and we decide which ones will get funded.We send the request higher up the chain of com-mand.”

McCauley drives to the sites of different proj-ects to inspect the progress being made and howthe funds are being invested.

“We don’t have a problem paying for things,but I want to be sure we are getting value for ourmoney,” McCauley said.

Not all the Iraqis get the funds they ask for,Smith said. Sometimes the evidence providedisn’t enough to justify restitution. Aside fromthat, Coalition Forces don’t offer any restitutionfor damage caused by anti-Iraqi Forces.

The main point is to show the Iraqis that theCoalition Forces are responsible for their actions.

“Anytime we mess something up, we fix it, ifall the evidence proves it was our fault,” Maritatosaid. “It’s a good solution to these people’s prob-lems.

Spc. Jimmy D. Lane Jr.ISF liaison officers 1st Lt. Doug Maritato and Staff Sgt. Jason Smith,3/69 Armor, review claims made by two Iraqis before paying themrestitution on alleged damaged property in Samarra April 25.


2/156th Inf. medics bring care to remote Iraqi villageSgt. Thomas Benoit256th BCT PAO

THINEEYAH, Iraq – Armed withschool supplies and multivitamins,Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 156thInfantry Regiment, 256th BrigadeCombat Team, 3rd Infantry Divisionsponsored a medical civil affairs projectheld at Al Nassir School in Thineeyah,Iraq April 12.

The team provided basic medicalassistance to children and adults as partof the ongoing effort by multi-nationalforces to help rebuild Iraq.

Once the patients were seen by thephysician or physician assistant, theyreceived various gifts or a care packagecontaining toys for the children and den-tal hygiene products and toiletries.

School supplies and treats were freelygiven out to the delight of young Iraqichildren; additionally, several pairs ofshoes were given along with apparel.

If a patient had a diagnosis which wasbeyond the scope of the physicians, thefamilies were educated via the inter-preters on the importance of the abnor-

mality and stressed the importance ofseeking an Iraqi physician.

“Multivitamins and medicines weredispensed to combat epilepsy, congeni-tal abnormalities, and movement disor-ders in the elderly and post-traumaticpalsies. The predominant health prob-lems diagnosed included dermatologi-cal, gastrointestinal, and upper respira-tory ailments,” said Lt. Col. JosephDore, M.D., 256th BCT surgeon.

Once the MEDCAP in Thineeyahconcluded, the team traveled to aremote nomadic settlement where thedoctors treated several patients with theprincipal of “tailgate medicine” rang-ing from common cold ailments toredressing the bandages of a brokenarm.

The remainder of care packages,clothing and school supplies from AlNassir School were handed out.

Once care was complete at the set-tlement, the team was once again onthe move to a new family of nomadsherding sheep.

The family was very healthy andonly required basic medical attention.

Photos by Sgt. Thomas Benoit“Open up and say ahhhh!” is an international language understood wherevermedics go. Here, Spc. April Clark from Marydel, Md., C Company, 199th FSB, 256thBCT checks the vitals of a patient before the physician arrives during a medicalcivil affairs project held at Al Nassir school April 12.Lt. Col. Joseph Dore, 199th FSB, gives a young goat a checkup April 12.

Let’s get physical: Aviation Soldier teaches Taji aerobics class in spare time

Spc. Derek Del RosarioAvn. Bde. PAO

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Sweatbeads roll down the brows ofdozens of Soldiers. Theirhearts are racing as they breatheharder with every passingmoment. Some Soldiers feelthe pain of their actions, but onething is true for all of theseSoldiers – they all made thechoice to be here.

Are these Soldiers roadmarching through the desert?Jumping out of planes?Clearing a building inBaghdad?

Actually, they are all part ofa class that features one thing –aerobics.

One of the numerous oppor-tunities available to Soldiershere at Camp Taji is an aerobicsclass, which is conductedtwice-a-day, three-days a week.

The classes are taught bySgt. 1st Class Elizabeth S.Brown, also the noncommis-sioned offier in charge of theProperty Book Office forHeadquarters and HeadquartersCompany, Aviation Brigade.

Brown’s aerobic instructionbegan five years ago at FortStewart where she worked asthe post partum pregnancyphysical training instructor forthe 3rd Infantry Division.When her deployment broughther to Taji, she volunteered toteach aerobics to servicemem-bers. She was surprised by theturnout she received on her firstday of instruction.

“When I went to my firstclass, I was amazed to see howmany people showed up,around 30,” Brown said. “The

class continues to grow; nowwe get up to 60.”

Classes attended by bothmales and females. Brownlikes to see males in her classesbecause it breaks the stigmathat aerobics is strictly forwomen. She often gets positivefeedback from the male partici-pants.

“I come three days a week,”said Staff Sgt. Joker Botin, ACompany, 603rd AviationSupport Battalion. “It is a goodworkout and the instruction isoutstanding.”

The aerobics class is an hourlong and contains a cardioworkout in which Brown triesto incorporate something foreveryone.

“Aerobic routines come nat-ural to me,” Brown said. “I tryto use moves that will work outdifferent parts of the body, andI like to try new moves thatpeople will enjoy. I will look inthe crowd and gauge how theylike the routine by the looks ontheir faces, and I adjust my rou-tine accordingly.”

Brown believes music isimportant when doing aerobics,and changes it often to fit a cer-tain part of the routine.

“I have to feel the music inorder to come up with themoves,” she said. “I needupbeat and uplifting music. Ilike to try out different styles.For the future, I plan to incor-porate some Latin music intomy routine.”

Despite having five years ofexperience, Brown said she stillgets butterflies when teachingher classes.

“No matter how long I’vebeen doing this, I still get nerv-

ous before each class,” Brownsaid. “But once the class startsand I see people enjoying it, mynervousness diminishes.”

Judging by the growingnumber of participants, peopleare indeed enjoying Brown’sprogram.

“My friend told me aboutthis class and it’s prettyintense,” said 2nd Lt. KristiHyatt, 3/3 Air ReconnaissanceBattalion, who was participat-ing in the class for the first time.“(Brown) makes it fun and sheis very motivated.”

Being an aerobics instructorkeeps Brown busy. Along withinstructing morning andevening classes three times aweek and being in charge of thebrigade’s property book office,she also is taking two classes inorder to get her Bachelor ofScience in criminal justice.

“I have to manage my timeand get into a routine,” she said.“I enjoy doing both classes, soit’s hard to give one up.Sometimes before a class I amdrained, but once the musicstarts and I see how energeticpeople are, it wakes me up.”

Despite her full schedule,Brown finds gratification inknowing she is giving some-thing back to the Soldiers byhelping them get fit.

“Today someone came upto me and told me how muchthey enjoyed the class andhow I helped him get back intoshape,” Brown said. “That’sthe best part for me, knowing Ican be of help to someoneelse. Hearing the positivefeedback and helping peoplemakes me know I’m doingsomething.”

Spc. Derek Del RosarioSgt. 1st Class Elizabeth S. Brown leads her aerobics class.


Sgt. Thomas Benoit256th BCT PAO

THINEEYAH, Iraq –Soldiers from B Company,1st Battalion, 156th ArmorRegiment, 256th BrigadeCombat Team distributedseveral hundred pounds ofhygiene products, towelsand blankets to numerousvillages surroundingThineeyah, Iraq, April 21.

The care packages weresent to the Kids-for-Kidsprogram managed by Sgt.Keith Bonnet and Staff Sgt.Shaun Warren withHeadquarters andHeadquarters Battery, 1stBattalion, 141st FieldArtillery, 256th BrigadeCombat Team stationed atCamp Liberty.

For nomadic families wholive in tents, herding sheepalong Iraq’s harsh country

side, is a way of life. Due to decades of oppres-

sion by the former regime,there are children and adultswalking the cruel dessertfloor without shoes and onlythe clothes on their backs.

Now, thanks to Soldiersdedicated to making a differ-ence, Iraq’s future has a run-ning start at democracy.

Since the program’sinception, the Web sitereceived more than 2.5 tonsof donated supplies from 18states.

The Washington ArtilleryVeterans Associations raiseda total of $8,000 and pur-chased school supplies thatwere sent to Iraq. The Website via Paypal raised inexcess of $400 to purchaselocal commodities.

Goods are distributedthroughout 256th BCT’sarea of operations.

Hundreds of poundsof supplies distributedto Thineeyah villages

Photos by Sgt. Thomas BenoitAbove: Staff Sgt. Don Chisum, B Btry., 1/141 FA amazes youngIraqi children with a toy that was donated to the Kids-for-Kids pro-gram and delivered by B Btry. Soldiers April 21.Right: An Iraqi mother and child are joyous after receiving donat-ed blankets, towels and hygiene items.

Above: A young Iraqi girl looks back at her mother with a gleeful smile after receiving clothing from Soldiers.Left: Staff Sgt. Michael Gil from Kenner, La., helps Staff Sgt. Tony Locklear from Pembroke, N.C., with hiscommunications equipment during a pre-combat inspection for the Kids-for-Kids program.

Reaching outReaching out


Maj. Adam ShillingBAGHDAD — An Iraqi street merchant lends a hand and a hose to Soldiers of C Co. 443 Civil Affairs attached to 3rd Battalion, 156th Infantry Battalion, 256Brigade Combat Team. The Soldiers took time to clean the windows of their M1114 up-armored humvee as Cpl. Hugo Sevilla from Staten Island, N.Y. and Spc.Edward Pickett from Houston, Texas, waited to leave an electrical site during 3/156th project assessment mission in northern Baghdad April 23.

AAccttiinngg nneeiigghhbboorrllyy .. .. ..

MND-B EO office conducts first EO rep courseMND-B EO OfficeSpecial to The Marne Express

The Multi-National Division-Baghdad Equal OpportunityOffice hosted an EqualOpportunity RepresentativeCourse graduation ceremonyApril 8.

Present for the class wasCommand Sgt. Maj. William M.Grant, Task Force Baghdad com-mand sergeant major, whoextended congratulatory wishesto the Soldiers and expressed hisguidance on how they, as EOrepresentatives, serve as an inte-gral part of their commander’sEO program.

The EORC, which is normal-ly a challenging two-weekcourse at Fort Stewart, was con-densed into a rigorous one-week course during which stu-dents participated in instruc-tional classes, prepared andbriefed presentations and con-ducted “Consideration ofOthers” methodology of train-ing.

At the end of the weekSoldiers were required to pass a

closed-book written examina-tion as part of the final phase forgraduation.

Staff Sgt. Vashana Chambers,Headquarters and HeadquartersCompany, 2nd Brigade CombatTeam, was selected by the stu-dents as the most valuable con-tributor. She was awarded a cer-tificate of achievement signed byMaj. Gen. William G. WebsterJr.,Task Force Baghdad com-manding general. Vashana alsoreceived a coin of excellencefrom Grant.

Also recognized was StaffSgt. Kristine Cope, Headquartersand Headquarters Company,612th Engineer Battalion, whoreceived a coin of excellencefrom Grant for her academicachievement of attaining a per-fect score on the written exami-nation.

The MND-B EO office willhost the next EORC May 28through June 3.

Soldiers interested in servingas their unit’s EO representativecan contact their chain of com-mand or brigade EO advisor forprerequisites.

Courtesy photoMembers of the MND-B EO’s first EOR course graduating class pause their training for a photo-op.

Staff Sgt. Billie SuttlesOffice of the Staff Judge Advocate

This deployment has been a smor-gasbord of new Army acronyms.

Of course, everyone else seems toknow what this or that one means, butfor some, they walk around withindiscriminate letters thrown togetherwondering what the heck everyoneelse is referring to.

I heard the newest acronym,MiTTs, right before the arrival ofCapt. Berg, our newest MarneOperational Legal Team member.

MiTTs stands for MilitaryTransition Teams. The MiTTS con-cept was developed in conjunctionwith a new initiative from Multi-National Security Transition-Iraq.

This is a huge project to stand upthe Iraqi security forces to include theIraqi Army. The IA will soon have acomplete division and multiplebrigades.

The concept is for our AmericanSoldiers to live with the IA to teachthem how to provide security forIraq.

How does the Office of the StaffJudge Advocate play into all of this?

It goes back to Capt. Berg, the newMOLT attorney. Capt. Berg was giventhe mission of training the two 6th IAlegal officers. He works with thesegentlemen on a daily basis to teachthem what their jobs are and how divi-sion staff works with brigade staff.

In addition, Capt. Berg is trainingIA basic trainees, called Jundi’s.

The training consists of teachingrules of engagement, human rights andthe Code of Military Discipline. Thefirst training was conducted April 13in Taji in the IA Basic Training com-plex.

The IA drill sergeant marched thetrainees in, and with the assistance ofthe Iraqi attorney “Hussain,” the classbegan.

The Jundi’s were on their 12th dayof a 13-day training cycle. Iraqi cul-ture makes it difficult, if not almostimpossible for one person to ask aquestion, because when one personwould talk, the room would erupt witheveryone talking over one another.

When this happened the drillinstructors quickly regained control ofthe class and CPT Berg continued with

the training. The highlight of the classroom

instruction came when “HumanRights” booklets were passed outamong the class. It was somethingthey could hold and claim ownershipto.

After the training was over, theJundi’s were marched out of the class-room by their drill instructors. Capt.Berg, Mr. Al-Nahi and Staff Sgt.Suttles followed and an impromptuphoto opportunity began.

After a few photos, Hussainbecame the movie star of the afternoon.

U.S. Soldiers quickly and quietlymelted into the background, hoping thatthis was one of the many steps slowlytransitioning the U.S. forces back home.

MiTTs training assists in smoother transition for forces


Taji’s 1/158th ATC team keeps Avn. aircraft flying straightSpc. Derek Del RosarioAvn. Bde. PAO

“Taxi to 3-4 via Bravowinds estimated calm, altime-ter estimated 3002, hold short3-4,” the Soldier says in onebreath.

For most people, thisphrase would be as foreign asPeruvian politics, but forAviation Brigade pilots andSoldiers in the control tower,it’s common terminology.

The control tower Soldiersare part of the Air TrafficControl Team of D Company,1st Battalion, 58th AviationRegiment.

The ATC team ensures thatair traffic coming into Taji air-field flows smoothly.

D Co.’s 1st Sgt. David J.Ibsen said his Soldiers workhard to ensure their mission iscompleted.

“Here in Baghdad we arein charge of control tower andflight tracking operations. Weensure flight safety for all air-craft,” Ibsen said. “TheSoldiers are working hard toensure a safe, orderly andexpeditious flow of air trafficthroughout Iraq.”

To help complete their mis-sion, Soldiers are in the con-trol tower at all hours toensure that helicopters landsafely.

Spc. Carlos R. Munoz, a DCo. ATC specialist, believeshis responsibilities allow fororder on the airfield.

“Air traffic control isresponsible for all flights com-

ing in and out,” Munoz said.“We have to separate the heli-copters and land them.Airspace can get crowded, sowe provide positive control ofthe helicopter traffic here.”

Sgt. Rowland A.T.Conception, ATC specialist,says the control tower has topass important information tothe pilots.

The controllers informpilots when controlled detona-tions occur and when quickreaction forces are being dis-patched, and they sequencehelicopters for landing andtake off.

“We have to get importantflight data to the pilots,”Conception said. “Pilots can’tsee everything out there. Wesee the whole picture. Pilotsrely on us to be their eyesbecause we get a 360-degreeview of the airfield.”

The D Co. Soldiers are alsodoing their part in helping thetransition of Iraqi forces to takecontrol of their government.

The company has been train-ing Iraqi Soldiers in air trafficcontrol duties.

The main instructor, ATCchief Sgt. 1st Class Antoine D.Williams, said the Iraqis arededicated and willing to learn.

“We are teaching them basicATC knowledge,” Williamssaid. “They are learning thingssuch as how to separate aircraft,weather training and basicflight rules.”

The Iraqi forces beingtrained have prior air trafficcontrol experience, but the

Soldiers still have some chal-lenges to overcome.

“How the Iraqis control traf-fic and how we control traffic isdifferent,” Williams said. “TheIraqi forces control traffic moreleniently. We are trying toshow them how to be moreaggressive in controlling air-craft movement so they canestablish more positive con-trol.”

Air traffic controllers alsohave their own language whencommunicating with pilots,which Munoz said can some-times be difficult to translate toIraqi forces.

“We use a lot of different ter-minology, and with the lan-guage barrier it’s sometimesdifficult to communicate,” heexplained. “We will go overscenarios to help explain some

of the phraseology we use.”Williams has a positive out-

look on the training he is givingto the Iraqi Soldiers.

“They are fast learners andwhat we are teaching them ispart of the bigger plan,” he said.“At some point they will takecontrol of the airfield. This isjust one step in helping themestablish their country and run-ning their own army.”

1st IA Bde. taught fair treatmentSpc. Erin Robicheaux256th BCT PAO

CAMP JUSTICE, Iraq – Although Iraq doesn’t haveany formative documents proclaiming its people’sequality, and no Bill of Rights to uphold its citizens’civil liberties, the Staff Judge Advocate team of the 3rdInfantry Division is doing its part to help mend thedamage.

The Soldiers traveled to Forward Operating BaseJustice to provide human rights training for detaineesto the 1st Iraqi Army Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division.

Capt. Jacob Lilly from Frederick, Md., chief coun-sel for detainee operations, told the Soldiers to be very

careful how they treat prisoners.“All eyes of the world are watching Iraq, not just the

Arab world,” Lilly said.He emphasized that fair treatment of all human

beings is very important to the war on terrorism.“You must not allow abuse to come to the detainees,

regardless of what they have done to a person andcountry that you love,” he said. “You all took an oathand must put aside emotions, you are all professionalSoldiers.”

The training is part of Operation En-Sania, a humanrights program for the entire Iraqi Army. Tracking andreporting of detainee abuse is part of the operation.

In the event of a situation, 3rd Inf. Div. SJA willengage the Ministry of Human Rights and Ministry ofDefense, in order to address the specified abuses.

The training for the 1st IA Bde. is the first of itskind. As the battalions of the 6th IA Division expand,so will the training.

Lilly said there have been issues of detainee abusein the Iraqi system and this was an attempt to addressit.

The United States cannot order the Iraqi Army tobuild a system based on American standards, but theycan show what has worked in the American system.

“We had our own growing pains with this issue, butwe learned from our lessons and are passing theknowledge on,” said Lilly.

An intelligence officer with 1st IA said his Soldiersknow from the former reign of Saddam that torturenever brings positive results.

“We are to follow the standards of human rights; ifwe just deal with detainees humanely we will get bet-ter intelligence when we question them,” he said.

The officer received a degree in engineering, andthough he wanted a career in his chosen profession, hesaid he and his Soldiers are ready to fight for an inde-pendent country before they resume their professionalcivilian lives.

“Iraq has some special circumstances that we needto deal with. We cannot do any kind of work if we donot stabilize the country,” he said.

According to the officer, since the Iraqi Armyformed a strong presence in Iraq, a lot of the violenceand terrorism has slowed down.

He attributed this to the help of the American andMulti-National Forces and for their training in areassuch as detainee relations.

“Terror acts these days are different than before.The enemy is getting very tired,” he claimed. “Ifeveryone is to be treated the same, the standard has tobe humane treatment.”

Lilly explained the Soldiers may have to set asidetheir feelings and sometimes even beliefs for fair treat-ment of the detainees.

He said it may be hard because some detainees havedone hard things, but the Soldiers have to be profes-sional and do their duty, and that he believes in thissystem because it will instill positive results.

“I’m teaching human rights, human rights, humanrights,” Lilly said. “And I believe to the deepest coreof my heart, that everyone deserves the very basics.”

Spc. Derek Del RosarioSpc. Carlos R. Munoz, right, and Sgt. Rowland A.T. Conception, both D Co., 1/158th Avn. Regt. ATCspecialists, control incoming and outgoing helicopters from the control tower at Taji airfield.

Spc. Erin RobicheauxCapt. Jacob Lilly gives a group of 1/6 Iraqi Soldiers aclass about human rights at FOB Justice.

Useful AArabic PPhrasesEnglish

God bless you

Come with me

What’s your name?

My name is ...

English

Good evening

Good evening (reply)

Show me your ID

I have no ID

Arabic

raMAhak allah

taAl ma’ai

shinu ISmak?

ISme ...

Arabic

meSAH alKHAIR

meSAH alNOOR

raWEEni haWEtak

MA indee haWEEya

Spc. Brian Schroeder2/10 Inf. PAO

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq –Two ribbon cutting ceremonieswere held in the Mansour dis-trict of Baghdad to celebrate thecompletion of recent renova-tions at local schools April 10.

One primary and one sec-ondary school received newrestroom plumbing, fresh painton all the walls and a recon-structed playground area.

The three-month project,costing more than $70,000, wascompleted by local Iraqi con-tractors with financial assis-tance from the U.S. Army.

The ribbon cutting ceremo-ny at the primary school wasconducted with much fanfare.Students lined the hallways,sang songs and danced.

The Iraqi flag was raised fol-

lowed by children reciting theIraqi pledge of allegiance andsinging the Iraqi nationalanthem.

Before the ceremony, theheadmistress of the schoolthanked the U.S. Army for itsassistance. She said that therenovations are an extremelygenerous asset for education ofthe children that are the “peopleof the upcoming and prosper-ous future” of Iraq.

“We are extremely happywith the new renovations,” saida primary school teacher. “I feltbad teaching the kids under theold conditions. These kids arethe future of Iraq and we shouldtake care of them and give thema good environment to learn.”

The ribbon cutting ceremo-ny at the secondary school wasnot as jubilant as that of the ele-mentary school’s celebration.

Upon arriving at the school,Maj. Rob Menist, 1st Battalion,41st Infantry Regiment execu-tive officer was presented witha threat letter the schoolreceived just a few days prior.

The letter stipulated that ifAmericans are welcomed backinto the school, “god’s law”would be brought to the school.

Despite the threat, the head-mistress invited the Soldiersinside. She said the threat willnot discourage her from provid-ing a safe place for her studentsto learn.

“Thank you for what youhave done for our school andfor the girls; it is nice now,” shesaid. “It is now a much betterplace for the girls to learn.

Menist commended theheadmistress for her braveryand courage for inviting theSoldiers back into her school

after receiving the threateningmessage.

“It takes a lot of fortitudeand courage on the part of theheadmistress to let us in after

receiving the letter,” Menistsaid. “These kids now have agood place to study and learndespite the threats from terror-ists.”


Do you have a creative idea for something new in The Marne Express?Do you have a funny or exceptional photo you want to show people?

If so contact [email protected] submissions are welcome and valued!

EOD prevents possible tragedy by blowing things upPfc Dan Balda4th BCT PAO

FORWARD OPERATING BASEPROSPERITY, Iraq – On April 14, avehicle borne improvised explosivedevice detonated, killing and badlyinjuring many unfortunate people inthe area.

There were two other bombs thathad been placed at the site. Luckily forthe people in the vicinity, an explosiveordnance disposal team assigned to the4th Brigade Combat Team came to thesite to take care of the unexploded ord-nance.

The team calmly cleared the area ofcivilians and established a safety cor-don around the car. Once everybodywas clear, they reduced the once-dead-ly bomb to dust.

“I love being able to go to a situa-tion that’s chaos, where nobody knowswhat’s going on and you have mediaand civilians milling around. I lovegoing to a situation and making thingshappen, making it organized,” saidNavy Lt. Mark Yoon, officer in chargeof the EOD Mobile Detachment Unit2.

“It’s scary driving around Baghdadand not knowing what’s laying by theside of the road or sitting in someone’strunk,” said Sgt. Brandon Sanders, adriver assigned to Headquarters andHeadquarters Company, 4th BrigadeCombat Team.

The best tactic Soldiers can use tocounteract the threat of IED’s is to do abetter job when they dismount fromthe vehicles to do their “5s and 25s.”

This refers to walking five metersaround your vehicle in every direction,

scanning the ground to make sure thereare no explosive devices planted thereand then visually checking the perime-ter 25 meters in every direction.

“Take more time with your 5s and25s, they will save your life,” Yoonsaid. “If you have to dismount fromyour vehicle, do them extremely thor-oughly. Kick the dirt around, movetrash with your feet. Your feet are yourbest friend when you are doing 5s and25s.”

Like a lotof his cowork-ers in EOD,Yoon attrib-utes his loveof his job toc h i l d h o o dexperimenta-tion.

“I was likea lot of littlekids, I liked toblow stuffup,” Yoonsaid. “Demois definitelythe cool part of the job. We use it as atool; we’re not just here to blow theheck out of everything. We’re here tosave personal property and lives.”

Yoon and his comrades do as muchas possible to make the blast as little ofa threat to the local citizens and build-ings as possible.

“We weigh in what the surroundingenvironment is,” Yoon said. “If it’s ina deserted field, I’m going to blow it,but if it’s in a residential area, I’mgoing to do something completely dif-ferent. We go to huge lengths to makesure personal property isn’t harmed. If

it was my car or my house, I wouldn’twant it messed up. I always try to takethat into consideration.”

“I was in the chow hall at (FOB)Falcon when they had a controlleddetonation for a bunch of weaponsthey confiscated,” Sanders said. “Theydidn’t tell anybody before hand, sowhen they blew the stuff up everybodythought we were being attacked.People were diving under tables,

throwing all theirgear on, it waspretty funny.But when Ithought aboutit, I was prettyglad (EOD)blew that stuffup before itwas used ons o m eSoldiers.”

The successof the EODteam can beattributed totwo main

things; teamwork and education. Yoon’s staff consists of only one

person, an E-5 , but saying that theSailor “works for him” is a mis-nomer.

Sometimes they take turns as far aswho is in charge of a site.

“I’ll get people that say, ‘Oh he’sjust an E-5.’ No way, he’s just assmart, if not smarter than me on thisstuff,” Yoon said. “He can do every-thing I can do. In Navy EOD we areall trained the same. He has a differ-ent perspective on things, it’s a part-nership. I work in a small shop so I

get to know the people real well. Iknow how they are going to react inany given situation.”

The job isn’t just about taking careof homemade bombs – members of aNavy EOD team keep people protect-ed in many other ways, such as div-ing to make sure ships are in safeareas to force protection – but inOperation Iraqi Freedom, the explo-sives do keep the team fairly busy.

“IED’s are a small part of it, butit’s definitely the sexy part of the job,especially with the climate here inIraq,” Yoon said. “This is an IED war,although we might not realize it.You’re not going to see a company ora platoon of insurgents storming awall, its going to be an IED placedsomewhere. There are smart guys outthere and we have to counter theirtactics with our own.”

The schooling to become trained inEOD is longer than most vocationalcolleges.

“EOD school plus dive school, allthe training, it takes a year and a halfto two years for all the schools. EODschool is extremely academic. Mostof the people in your class don’t makeit through.”

The psychological facet is one ofthe reasons Yoon loves his job.

“I like this job because of the men-tal aspect of it,” Yoon said. “It’s veryintense; it’s you versus the bombmaker. It’s a little like chess; you haveto plan out all your moves before-hand. You have to do everything inyour power to make sure its safe foryou to go downrange in that bombsuit. How can I do this to make sure Isave as many lives as possible?”

“It’s very intense; it’s you ver-sus the bomb-maker. It’s a lit-tle like chess, you have to planout all your moves before-hand.”

Navy Lt. Mark YoonOIC, EOD Mobile Detachment 2

Renovations spruce up two Baghdad schools

Photos by Spc. Brian SchroederAbove: Two Iraqi boys salute their country’s flag while recitingthe Iraqi national anthem during activities celebrating theirschool’s completed renovations.Left: Maj. Rob Menist, left, 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regimentexecutive officer celebrates with the headmistress of a westernBaghdad primary school construction projects.

Faces & Places The Marne Express, May 8, 2005

COMING SOONThe Marne Express is still waiting to run its new column, “Rocky’s Hydrant” ...

BECAUSE WE CAN’T DO IT WITHOUT YOU!We know you have gripes, questions and constructive criticism about –well, anything and everything – and we’re giving you this opportunity

to tell us about them.Just make sure your comments meet the following criteria:

1) No foul language – you don’t want all those nasty words to crowd out the point of your message, do you?2) If you have a problem, offer a solution – anybody can hate a situation; we want to know how you would fix it.3) Keep it concise – save the rambling diatribes for your buddies; we don’t have enough space for all that here.

AND HERE’S THE BEAUTY OF IT:Nobody has to know who you are! If you would like to remain anonymous, just tell us. If not, please supply your

name, unit and hometown, so everyone can thank you for your helpful suggestions.E-MAIL [email protected] with your submissions.

We’re looking forward to hearing from you!

Courtesy photoSgt. Chris Wilburn, 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment, stands watch as the sun sets.

Spc. Ben BrodySpc. Jonathan Mardis, an A Battery, 1st Battalion,9th Field Artilliery Regiment gunner, sweeps thesidewalk at Camp Loyalty, Iraq, April 29.

Spc. Derek Del RosarioSgt. 1st Class Carlos Martinez, C Co. 3rd Battalion,3rd Aviation Regiment (Attack Recon), gets in a work-out by doing pullups at the Camp Taji fitness facility.

Spc. Jennifer FittsWatching over his Soldiers from his Bradley FightingVehicle, 1st. Lt. Manuel Prado, 1st Battalion, 41stInfantry Regiment keeps a close eye on the street whilethey overwatch the area from a nearby rooftop.

Guidance The Marne Express, May 8, 2005

1st Sgt. Timothy J. Millsap, 70th Eng. Cpl. Travis R. Bruce, 170th MP Co.

Cpl. Aleina Ramirez Gonzalez, 1/3 BTBCpl. Glenn Watkins, 1/184 Inf.Spc. Jacob M. Pfister, 3/7 Inf.

Spc. Gary W. Walters Jr., 1/9 FAPfc. Sam W. Huff, 170th MP Co.Pfc. Joseph L. Knott, 3rd ACRPfc. Steven F. Sirko, 1/30 Inf.

Pfc. Kevin S. K. Wessel, 3/7 Inf.

In Memory Of Our Fallen Soldiers...In Memory Of Our Fallen Soldiers...

1. Purpose. To provide information to the Secretary of the Army relating to the Army humvee accidents in Operations Iraqi Freedomand Enduring Freedom.

2. Background. The SECARMY directed the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center to examine humvee accidents in the OIF/OEF the-aters. USACRC is unable to calculate accident rates for the various vehicle types as the number of vehicles in theater over time as well asthe cumulative number of vehicle miles driven is unknown. Additionally, USACRC is not able to determine from the accident data whetherthe vehicles had armor kits (factory made or locally fabricated) installed. When the Armor kits are installed the nomenclature of the vehi-cle does not change nor is there currently any mandated method of identifying the vehicles.

3. Facts.a. From Sept. 12, 2001 through March 21 there have been 221 Class A-D Army humvee accidents in the OEF/OIF theaters of operations

resulting in 62 fatalities. Only 13 of the accidents and one of the fatalities in the Central Command theater of operations occurred in OEF,the remainder occurred in OIF.

b. Within the humvee family, the M998 (standard utility model) accounts for 34 percent of the accidents (75) and the M1114 (up-armored)accounts for over 22 percent of the accidents (49). The M1025 (utility armament model) and the M1097 (utility model) account for ninepercent (20) and seven percent (16) of the humvee accidents, respectively. The remaining models each account for less than three percentof the accidents. “Unspecified” humvee models (the specific model of the vehicle was not reported) make up 15 percent of the accidents(33). (Note: so far all fiscal year ‘05 accident reports have identified the specific humvee model involved).

c. Of the 62 fatalities associated with the humvee nearly 29 percent (18) occurred in “unspecified” models. Up-armored M1114 humveesaccount for 32 percent (20) of the fatalities, 70 percent of those (14) occurred in FY05. Nearly 18 percent (11) of the fatalities occurred inthe M998 and 15 percent (nine) occurred with the M1025. The remainder of the humvee models account for less than two percent of thefatalities each.

d. In general, the number of Class A humvee accidents in theater each month has trended up since August 2004 culminating in eight inFebruary. To date, there has only been one Class A accident in March. Since FY03, the number of accidents and fatalities in the M998 hasdeclined and the number of accidents and fatalities in the up-armored M1114 has increased. This is likely due to two factors: first, the den-sity of up-armored and add-on armor humvees has steadily increased over time; second exposure of unarmored vehicles has declined due tolocal policies not allowing unarmored vehicles to operate outside of the Forward Operating Bases. Consequently, the exposure of up-armored and add-on armor vehicles has likely increased while the exposure of un-armored vehicles has declined.

e. USACRC was able to identify 466 Army military personnel involved in the 211 accidents. Of those, seatbelt usage was reported for253 Soldiers. Of the 253 Soldiers, 154 were reported to have worn seatbelts, 76 were reported to have not worn seatbelts, and the remain-ing 23 were reported as “unknown.” Of those who were wearing seatbelts, only four percent (six) received fatal injuries and 42% (66)received injuries that resulted in lost work-days while 55 Soldiers (36 percent) received no injuries and 27 (17 percent) required first-aidonly. Of those who were not wearing seatbelts, 17 Soldiers (22 percent) received fatal injuries and 31 (41 percent) received injuries thatresulted in lost work-days. Only 17 Soldiers (22 percent) who were not wearing seatbelts received no injury in the accident and 10 (13 per-cent) required first aid. The data clearly indicates that seatbelt usage reduces the severity of the injuries sustained in an accident.

f. In 79 of the 211 accidents (37 percent) the vehicle rolled over resulting in 40 of the 62 fatalities (64 percent). M1114s account for 26(32 percent) of the rollover accidents and 18 (45 percent) of the rollover fatalities. There were 51 cases of the vehicle running off the road,and 44 cases of the humvee colliding with another moving vehicle. (Note: There can be more than one type of event associated with eachaccident – i.e. the vehicle can run off the road then overturn resulting in two separate events for one accident).

g. USACRC is currently unable to determine the familiarity of units with the up-armored humvees and its impact on likelihood of acci-dents. However, Infantry units account for 20 percent of the accidents, Armor units account for 15 percent followed by Field Artillery andMilitary Police units at 10 percent each and Engineer units at seven percent.

h. Data limitations precluded identifying the specific causes of many accidents, however, predominant individual Soldier errors associ-ated with the humvee accidents were a result of overconfidence, being in a hurry, and fatigue/lack of sleep. Additionally, USACRC inves-tigators determined that several M1114 accidents were a result of the driver not being able to see hazards in the vicinity of the vehicle andthe other vehicle occupants did not or could not adequately communicate with the driver as he approached the hazard. Consequently, insome instances, the vehicle departed the roadway and rolled when the driver over-corrected in his attempt to recover.

the FACTS on vehicle safety

Army National Guard retention benefitsExtension and Reenlistment

Bonus Criteria• Soldiers may reenlist or extend with-in 12 months (in-theater) of their cur-rent estimated time of separation orimmediately if currently under stop-loss and past their ETS date. • Soldier must have less than 16 yearsof total service at ETS (15 years, 11months, 29 days on extension/reen-listment start date)• Soldiers may have received previousreenlistment/extension bonuses.• Soldiers in-theater DO NOT need tobe MOS qualified.• Soldier must not be barred orflagged.• Soldier can be in either a MTOE orTDA unit.• Soldiers who have past their ETSdate and are on Stop Loss may reen-list at any time. The date of reenlist-ment will establish a new ETS date.Time served under Stop Loss will notbe deducted from the new reenlist-ment obligation. • AGR/Technicians must serve 6months from the start date of theirnew contract prior to re-affiliating withhis/her full-time state position in orderto retain the full bonus.Reenlistment / Extension Bonuses• First three-year option: $7500 ONELUMP SUM PAYMENT• Second three-year option: $6,000

ONE LUMP SUM PAYMENT• Six-year option: $15,000 LUMPSUM PAYMENT (Two payments,back-to-back) *All payments for contracts signed intheater are tax-free.

Previous Three-YearExtension/Reenlistment Bonus

• Soldiers currently under the PriorService Enlistment Bonus may reen-list/extend for a second three-year$6,000 bonus (if in 90-day window,paid 50/50) OR three-year $7,500/six-year $15,000 bonus if past ETS andon stop-loss. • Soldiers who have received a previ-ous three-year National Guard reen-listment bonus may reenlist/extend foranother three-year $6,000/six-year$15,000 bonus. Soldiers who havealready completed both a first andsecond three-year reenlistment bonusmay contract for either a new firstthree-year $7,500 or six-year$15,000.*All payments for contracts signed intheater are tax-free. Student Loan Repayment Program

(M-Day Soldiers only)• Soldiers with existing loans mayreenlist or extend for 6 years for theSLRP agreement. The amount ofSLRP will not exceed $18,000 with amaximum payment of 15% or $500,whichever is greater ($3,000 cap per

Soldier per year). Payment is basedon the original principal and does notinclude interest. • Soldiers must have served the lastthree consecutive years in an activedrilling status in the ARNG. InactiveNational Guard service constitutes abreak in service.• Soldiers may not have received theSLRP as an enlistment, re-enlistment,or extension option in the past. ASoldier reenlisting or extending willnot be authorized payment on loansestablished after the contract hasbeen signed.

Mongtomery GI Bill-Kicker (M-Day Soldiers only, E-1 to E-5

with less than 14 years of service)• Additional $200 per month in GI Billbenefits• MOS-qualified/Served last threeconsecutive years in NG/Requiressix-year contract• Modified Table of Equipment unitsonly

Federal Tuition AssistanceProgram (M-Day Soldiers only)

• The Federal Tuition AssistanceProgram is now being offered to allM-Day Soldiers in the Army NationalGuard. • This is a 100% tuition assistanceprogram. The annual cap for the pro-gram $4,500 per year, paid at a rateof $166 per quarter-hour or $250 per

semester hour. • Chapter 30, Chapter 1606 and1607 benefits can be combined withthe FTA Program.

Dental ProgramAll National Guard Soldiers are eligi-ble to purchase the United ConcordiaDental Plan. This program coverscleanings, X-rays, cavities, rootcanals, etc. and 50% of orthodontics.www.ucci.com

TRICARE Health Coverage• For every 90 days a Soldier isdeployed, he will earn one year ofTRICARE Health coverage eligibility.• Soldiers must remain in the reservecomponent to receive benefits.Monthly premium required; Individual$75 per month. • Family $233 per month.• All National Guard Soldiers are eli-gible to enroll their family members inthe TRICARE Standard program.www.tricare.osd.mil/reserve/reserveselect• At the end of the deployment allSoldiers and their families will have180 days of medical and 90 days(Soldier only) of dental coverage.

Contact your local Army NationalGuard Retention NCO

KUWAIT: Camp Arifijan:DSN: 318.430.7193 / Cell: 937.7659

Camp Buehring/Navistar:DSN: 844-1137 / Cell: 786.3181

IRAQ: Camp Victory (Baghdad):DSN: 539.2021 / 822.2954

LSA Anaconda (Balad):DSN: 829.1508 / 1128

FOB Danger (Tikrit):DVNT : 302.536.0202

FOB Warhorse (Baqubah):DVNT: 302.553.3057

FOB Warrior (Kirkuk):DSN: 460.0100

FOB Caldwell:DVNT: 302.589.1043

Camp Cooke (Taji):DSN: 856.0813/DVNT:302.531.6544

Camp Liberty (Baghdad):DSN: (318) 847-2352

Camp Summerall (Bayji):DVNT: 302.536.5047

AFGHANISTAN: Bagram AB: DSN: 318.231.4353/2234

Guidance

CPT Gary McNealOSJA

Many Soldiers got a powerof attorney prior to deployingoverseas.

For some of them, their sit-uation has changed and so hastheir needs regarding a powerof attorney.

Many questions are askedabout whether to get a generalpower of attorney or a specialpower of attorney, how longthey last, and what to do if theSoldier does not want thepower of attorney to remain ineffect any longer.

A generalpower of attorneyallows the personthat you name asyour attorney-in-fact to do essen-tially anything that you cando.

Some examples of thesethings are to buy and sellthings, to take money out ofbanks accounts, and to handleother financial affairs such aspaying taxes or taking out aloan.

The business or agency thatthe attorney-in-fact deals with,such as a bank, does not haveto accept the power of attor-ney.

They may require a specialpower of attorney to accom-plish certain things.

Special powers of attorneylimit the things that the attor-ney-in-fact can do to the spe-cific things that are named inthe power of attorney.

In many cases, a specialpower of attorney is a betterway to go if you know thatyou only want someone to docertain things for you, whileyou also want to protect your-self from granting them a widerange of powers.

Powers of attorney willremain in effect until theirexpiration date or until theyare revoked. If you have apower of attorney that youwant to get rid of, you need todo a revocation of the powerof attorney.

You need to provide noticeof the revocation to the attor-ney-in-fact, and to anyone elsethat may have a copy of it onfile, such as a bank.

In addition, you shouldeither destroy the original, orexecute a revocation whichyou may do through the Legal

A s s i s t a n c eOffice. Powers of attor-

ney can be very useful,but they can also be veryharmful.

Only give a power of attor-ney to an individual that youreally trust.

You are responsible for theactions of the attorney-in-fact,so if they purchase somethingin your name for instance thatyou really did not want orcould not afford, you areresponsible for it.

Make sure you get theright power of attorney tosuit your needs: maybe youneed to have someone doonly one or two certain tasksfor you that can be accom-plished through a specialpower of attorney, rather thangiving that person a broadgrant of authority with thegeneral power of attorney.

If you need to get a powerof attorney or need to get onerevoked, you may go to theMarne Legal AssistanceOffice located at CampLiberty, or see your BrigadeCommand Judge Advocate.

You may call 242-4568 ifyou have questions regardingpowers of attorney.

DDEESSEERRTT JJUUSSTTIICCEEGet help keeping yourPOAs current in theater


The Marne Tax Center isstill open for business!

Monday through Saturday9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Camp LibertyLegal Services Center

Building C25

Marne Medical Mentor ... a prescription for good health from your Docs in the Rock

The 10 Commandments of preventing heat injuryCapt. Lalini PillayAvn. Bde. Environmental Science Officer

It is only a matter of weeks before we start to seetemperatures regularly hitting the upper 80s and 90s,and it won’t be long after that before we will start tosee temperatures in the triple digits.

It is NOT too early to start educating Soldiers onthe how to prevent them from becoming a heat casu-alty.

Below are simple steps that ALL of you can fol-low to prevent yourselves and your battle buddiesfrom becoming heat casualties.

1. Provide adequate water and ensure waterbreaks are taken as needed. Thirst is not an adequateindicator of dehydration. Alcohol, coffee, softdrinks, and sports drinks are not good substitutes forwater.

2. Ensure Soldiers gradually adjust to working inthe heat. Acclimatization is essential in preventingheat injuries.

3. Schedule work and rest periods. Scheduleheavy work for the cooler part of the day (morningor late afternoon). The body generates more heat

when heavy work is being performed. 4. Avoid overexertion. Use mechanical aids

whenever possible. Assign tasks between severalSoldiers to reduce the stress on individuals.

5. Use shaded areas like trees, buildings and tentsto reduce radiant heating. The temperature in the sunand under the canopy of a tree can vary from eightdegrees to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Encourage the use of sun screens to protectexposed skin.

7. Wear loose-fitting, light-weight clothing. Donot layer clothing; more clothing increases the risk ofheat injury.

8. Monitor Wet Bulb Globe Temperature so theheat-stress index can be evaluated. Environmentalconditions, such as temperatures above 70 degrees(80 degrees at night), direct sunlight and humidityadd to heat stress. The wind reduces the risk of heatstress by increasing the evaporation of sweat.

9. Train Soldiers to recognize and treat heatinjuries and encourage them to monitor each otherfor signs of heat stress.

10. Conduct safety meetings to emphasize specialheat spell procedures. Be prepared to provide med-

ical assistance. If you have any questions or need additional

information, use the 11th Commandment below: 11. Contact your Environmental Science Officer.

Chaplain’s CornerWhere is your central focus?Chaplain (Capt.) Glenn Palmer3rd Inf. Div.

“You set the earth on its foundations, so thatit shall never be shaken”…Psalm 104:5

Dear brothers and sisters in God,

Most of us in the battalion Iserve (2/70 Armor) are stationedand live at Fort Riley, Kansas.

In north central Kansas nottoo far from Fort Riley thereis a place called the MeadesRanch where the 39th parallelfrom the Atlantic to the Pacificcrosses the 98th meridian run-ning from Canada to the RioGrande.

The government uses a small discon the ranch to locate the exact positionof every other point in the United States; ascientifically proven and recognized referencepoint.

That disc is the dead center of the country.So far, no mistakes have been made and noneare expected.

Ocean liners and commercial planes and

government construction projects must use uti-lize this location to the very inch. Not to do so,to guess, can be costly and dangerous.

What and who is your reference point? Who is the dead center of your life around

which all else revolves? Who is your cornerstone, upon which foun-

dation you build your life? As a pastor/chaplain I meet so many

folks whose lives are in chaos becausethere is no reference point other thanthe self or what feels good.

We all need a reference point to beprecise and rooted and anchored so that

we can live fully the life God calls usto live.

God’s will and desire is to beyour reference point.

God wants to be the center ofyour life.

God wants to be the one in whom youplace your trust and hope and belief, the

pivot on which your life swings and hinges;and that is life-giving, awesome news for allGod’s people.

PRO DEO ET PATRIAFOR GOD AND COUNTRY‘THUNDERCROSS”

With the 3rd Infantry Division firmly inauthority of Task Force Baghdad, the 3rd Inf.Div. band, the "Rhythm of the Marne,” is oper-ational and available to provide musical andceremonial support throughout the division'sfootprint, including all assigned and attachedunits.

The band is capable of providing severaldiverse musical ensembles to include ceremoni-al band, stage band, Latin band, jazz combo,rock combo, R&B combo, trombone quartet,brass quintet, solo piano and ceremonial bugler.

The unit also encompasses the DivisionColor Guard.

Contact Information

SFC Chapman, Operations Supervisor: DSN: (318) 847 2337

NIPR: [email protected]

SSG Powell, Operations NCOIC DSN: (318) 847 2338

NIPR: [email protected]

CW3 Catchings, Commander:DSN: (318) 847 2307Cell: 0790 193 2101NIPR: [email protected]

Rhythm of the Marne

Division CChapel SServicesCamp LLiberty

Friday7 p.m. Jewish Service

Saturday10 p.m.: Seventh Day

AdventistSunday

9 a.m.: ContemporaryProtestant

10:30 a.m.: Roman CatholicMass

1 p.m.: Lutheran3 p.m.: Gospel Protestant

5 p.m.: Christian Non-instru-mental

8 p.m.: Collective Protestant

Sports The Marne Express, May 8, 2005

Cartoon CCorner

The Marne Express is looking for artists for a bi-weekly comic strip! Contact [email protected].

Staff Sgt. Ken WalkerSpc. Emily J. Wilsoncroft3rd Inf. Div. PAO

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq –Task Force Baghdad Soldiersgot the opportunity to blow offsome steam with a little friend-ly competition in the form of anintramural basketball tourna-ment here April 24.

The championship game wasbetween the B Company, 92ndEngineer Group “Dawgs” andthe 3rd Signal Company, 3rdSignal Detachment“Bladerunners,” and resulted ina Bladerunner loss.

According to the Soldierswho participated, however, theage-old maxim applies: it does-n’t matter whether you win orlose, just how you play thegame.

In this case, just the opportu-nity to play in the tourney wasenough for Liberty Soldiers.

“The tournament was a won-derful distraction from our dailyroutine,” said 1st Lt. AndreaRiley, a B Co., 92nd Eng. teammember. “It enabled us to focusour energy and efforts throughhealthy competition.”

Sgt. 1st Class BelindaRhanes, 3rd Infantry Divisionnoncommissioned officer incharge of Morale, Welfare andRecreation, shared Riley’s sen-timents.

“The tournament was anexcellent way for the differentbranches of service to cometogether and compete,” shesaid. “It was an also an oppor-tunity for the troops to relievesome stress and a great moralebooster. I look forward to see-ing more troops come out andparticipate. The (Kellog, Brownand Root) and MWR represen-tatives made this event a suc-cess and I want to thank themfor their contributions.”

B Co., 92nd Eng.‘Dawgs’ outdo 3/3 Sig.‘Bladerunners,’ 58-44

Intramural basketball tournament

Photos by Staff Sgt. Ken WalkerAbove: “Dawgs” (brown t-sihrts) and “Bladerunners” battle for a rebound during the intramuralbasketball tournament championship game at Camp Liberty April 24.Left: Pvt. Tredale Langston, a 92nd Eng. “Dawg,” dribbles the ball down the court followed byhis teammates. “This game will be a good one,” Langston said before play began. “I know wewill come out strong and we will try to use the inside game to open up the outside game andvice-versa. All in all, we want to have fun and hopefully come out on top as winners.”

Entertainment The Marne Express, May 8, 2005

Across:1. Beast of burden4. Nugent or Kennedy 7. Greek goddess of mar-riage and birth11. Mafia head honcho12. When you might getthere13. Middle-eastern governor14. Climbed up on16. Sun beam17. Not here anymore18. Big finds21. Popular show, “The __”23. “J”’s sandwich partner25. International conflict26. Canadian catchphrase27. “Hero”’s Jet28. Wise guy30. That girl33. Fairly frequently36. Dwelling place38. Furry TV extraterrestrial

40. “All you need,” to some41. Musical syllable42. Like LOTR scenery44. Samuel’s biblical mentor45. Made up of mos.46. “You,” Spanish47. Alien home bases53. Let (up)56. Verse of praise57. Stumble58. Small container59. “1,000,” Spanish60. Military postal prefix61. Check copy62. Snakelike fish63. Fisherman’s tool

Down:1. Human prototype2. Skywalker’s cohort3. Tizzy4. Scary things5. “And others,” Lat.6. “Banana Boat Song”refrain7. Old biddies8. Modern music genre9. Famous canine ___ TinTin10. Exist15. Became unfrozen19. Buck’s mate

20. Canyon sound22. Greasy spoon23. One of David’s writings24. Ali ____27. McLean’s Chevy’s desti-nation29. “Monopoly” landmark31. Half a laugh32. Chicago trans. system34. Pilot’s trip35. __ and fro37. Outer prefix

39. “Old School” actor Will43. Innard47. Liquify48. There’s no place like it49. “Sopranos’” Falco50. Iraqi neighbor51. Sherlock Holmes acces-sory52. Detect53. First mother54. Help55. South American monkey

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Crossword

Last issue’s solution

The Book NookWilliam Boyd’s ‘Fascination’: Multivitamin stories

HL I R A S A N D E S

R P EH A N D E L V J

M A M A Z O NC S D H UH W M A N R

P A N G A E A A T H E N AL S C Y NL H L L U

R E N A I S S A N C E SN N V RG G I NE T C ER O L S

N V E R M O N T

Sgt. 1st Class David Abrams3rd Inf. Div.

In graduate school, mycreative writing instructorwould make us write one-sentence summaries of shortstories she assigned us toread (in Hollywood, this isknown as “the pitch”).

While reading WilliamBoyd’s new story collection,“Fascination,” I decided toapply this exercise to hisshort fictions: • An 11-year-old boy is givena bicycle as a gift from hismother’s lover so that he’llride around the French coun-tryside while the adulterershave afternoon sex.(“Varengeville”) • A filmmaker’s journal grad-ually reveals his obsessionfor his leading lady.(“Notebook No. 9”) • An architect is possessed bya 19th-century Scottish engi-neer, causing him to lose hisjob, his wife and perhaps hissanity. (“A Haunting”) • While putting his body-building girlfriend on asteroid regimen, a philosophystudent wrestles with thehypothesis that the mind canexist independently of matter.(“The Mind/Body Problem”)

Paring Boyd’s plots downto single sentences, however,robs these and the other 10tales in “Fascination” of theirartistry, depth and complexi-ty. There are strata upon stra-ta here on these pages.

The most memorable short

stories — by everyone fromAnton Chekhov to AliceMunro — are novels con-densed into miniature, hardgems.

Or, as Boyd himselfrecently wrote in TheGuardian: “Like a multivita-min pill, a good short storycan provide a compressedblast of discerning, intellec-tual pleasure, one no lessintense than that delivered bya novel, despite the shorterduration of its consumption.”

In “Fascination,” which ispacked with literary multivit-amins, the author of the nov-els “Any Human Heart” and“A Good Man in Africa”wades neck-deep into theswamp of humanity to bringus 14 tales of desperation anddesire.

Boyd’s writing is sharp,precise and often very funny.In this collection, it is also asdiverse in tone, structure andsubject matter as any book ofshort stories I’ve read.

Some of the stories readlike grad school writing exer-cises (“Beulah Berlin, An A-Z,” for instance, is brokeninto 26 sections, each endingwith a word that linguistical-ly reverberates into the firstword of the next section).

But beneath the clever nar-rative tricks lies not only afascination with language butwith the way we react inmoments of crisis, especiallythose times we try to sup-press sexual urges.

One story’s epigraph, a

quote from Chekhov, seemsespecially apropos to the col-lection as a whole: “Everyperson lives his real, mostinteresting life under thecover of secrecy.”

Not coincidentally, thatparticular story is “TheWoman on the Beach with aDog,” a re-vision of the mas-ter’s “The Lady With theDog.”

Boyd moves the adulter-ers’ rendezvous from a beachin Yalta to Cape Cod in 1944.When the man, GarrettRising, arrives at the cross-roads where he must choosebetween wife and lover,Boyd turns on a brilliantshow of Chekhovian agonyas the lovers wallow in post-coital conversation in a motelroom whose carpet is pat-terned with knights in shin-ing armor:

“We have to do some-thing,” she said.

“We will, I promise.” “What’re we going to

do?” He felt a small uplifting of

his spirits now that he knewshe was ready to try it withhim, this life of moments ofhappiness.

“I’ll think of something.” “What?” “I don’t know,” he said,

staring at the knights on theirprancing chargers. “I don’tknow.”

Most of Boyd’s charactersare caught in similar

moments of indecision. Asthe narrator of “BeulahBerlin, An A-Z” muses,“How do you know whenyour life is intrinsically unin-teresting? You just do. Somepeople live quietly, unhappi-ly, with this knowledge; oth-ers do something about it.”

Some readers — especial-ly those turned off by WoodyAllen films — might find thiscollection unbearably full ofself-indulgent anxiety.

However, I for one wasfascinated by the way Boydturns angst into art and con-sistently makes it a freshexperience from story tostory.

The collection’s standoutcenterpiece, “Incandescence”— true to its title — burns withthe kind of artistry that turns apiece of short fiction into awork of imagination thatexpands beyond the boundariesof the page.

Boyd creates somethingevery bit as complex and dra-matic as Ian McEwan’s novel“Atonement as Alexander”

Tobias returns to the Englishmanor of his former girlfriend,Anna — a now-married womanfor whom he still hopefully andhopelessly pines — for whatappears to be a casual familyget-together.

When I saw Anna again Iknew I loved her still. That Ihad never stopped loving herand that I would never stop lov-ing her. And suddenly I felt akind of grief for my life. It’s a

terrible thing, this, when youknow your life has gone irrevo-cably wrong, and that, everyday until the day you die, youwill be confronted with the ideaof an alternate life that youcould have, should have, lived.There were moments that week-end when I felt suicidal. I feltthat I should end my life nowrather than live on with the tor-ment of what might have been.

Anna’s family has fallen onhard times and hopes thatAlexander will be able to helpthem out of a financial jam.When he arrives, Alexanderrealizes he’s previously metAnna’s husband and he’s notthe successful, charming busi-nessman he appears to be.

Even while that’s going on,Boyd complicates the storyeven further by revealing sever-al devastating skeletons in thefamily’s closet.

All this in less than 20 pages;and, as you can see, it’s a plotthat defies the one-sentencesummary.

The characters, events andemotions of “Incandescence”are so rich and compelling, wesecretly long to explore them ina longer work.

But here’s the catch: to turn“Incandescence” into a full-length book would flatten it outand make it just another pale,pudgy novel.

One word more, one wordless and the multi-strand narra-tive Boyd has spun wouldcrumple like a spider web in ahurricane.

marne express · above left: pvt. krystal burgess and sgt. shakira gray, hhsc, stb food service...

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