Most Recent Press Releases

All Messages from Press Releases

Former Sailor builds future as Soldier Sunday, 29 June 2008Thirteen years in the Navy taught Craig Bedard to fight fires. He transitioned to the Army to continue serving his country, and learn a new skill he hopes to practice after his time in the military comes to an end.

Long Knife Soldier dusts off medical skills Sunday, 29 June 2008A military intelligence officer finally got to work where her heart is – in the medical community.

Rail Gunners take authority of Wasit Province Sunday, 29 June 2008Citizens of the Wasit Province gained new allies June 26 when the 214th Fires Brigade transferred authority of the area to the 41st Fires Brigade during a transfer of authority ceremony here.

Medics prepared to treat anything Sunday, 29 June 2008The reasons Soldiers visited sick call June 23 varied greatly: insect bites, insomnia and the common cold were a few of the maladies.

Overwhelming sense of patriotism brings Soldier into Army Sunday, 29 June 2008“I was 16 years old when 9/11 happened, and being the hot-blooded person that I am, I joined the Army on my 17th birthday,” said Spc. Jontel Watson, a 3rd Platoon, Company C, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment combat medic. “I graduated (from high school) early and went to basic training in 2002.”

Rakkasans pump serious iron in contest Sunday, 29 June 2008Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment held the first-ever Leader Rakkasan Weightlifting Competition at the COP Meade gym June 15. More than 40 Soldiers from four of the battalion’s companies participated in the competition.

Former detainee released in reintegration ceremony Sunday, 29 June 2008A former detainee was released to his family members outside a local mosque in Al-Wahida June 24.

From Lima to WOC school Saturday, 28 June 2008When Oscar Romero was in kindergarten in Lima, Peru, his parents bought him a soldier’s uniform to wear during a local parade.

Sergeant mentors new troops Saturday, 28 June 2008One of the most challenging things a leader can face during their deployment is maintaining their Soldiers’ readiness for combat.

Iraqi citizens receive chance to start new lives Friday, 27 June 2008Iraqi citizens were released from the Jisr Diyala Joint Security Station following a reconciliation ceremony June 25.

ISF continue to clear Amarah of munitions Thursday, 26 June 2008Iraqi Security Forces discovered numerous munitions during Operation Basha'er as Salaam in Amarah.

New civil affairs battalion joins fight Thursday, 26 June 2008One civil affairs battalion ends their 15-month odyssey in Iraq; another arrives to begin its own adventure.

IA, CF offer medical assistance to hundreds Thursday, 26 June 2008More than 200 adults and 80 children received medical care during a combined medical engagement at the Al Herea School in Farisiyah June 21.

On patrol with the Soldiers of Company A Thursday, 26 June 2008A young Iraqi girl walks up to Sgt. Charles Martinovic, of Stickney, Ill., a medic with Company A, Task Force 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, and asks softly “Mister, candy?” Martinovic is carrying his medic bag and M-4 as he patrols the neighborhood; he smiles as he reaches into his pocket and pulls out a piece of hard candy to give to the girl.

ERU, CF arrest 5 during air assault Thursday, 26 June 2008Members of the Mahawil Emergency Response Unit and Coalition forces conducted an air and ground assaults resulting in the arrest of five individuals, including one high value individual near Mahawil June 23.

K-9’s dangerous mission makes them man’s best friend Thursday, 26 June 2008It takes Azor, a German Shepherd, about 15 minutes before he stops, becomes excited and directs his attention at a small plastic package hidden beneath a pallet of rubber tires.

IA, Rakkasans conduct patrols near Fetoah Tuesday, 24 June 2008Iraqi Army Soldiers conducted a cordon, search and patrol of the Fetoah area June 18 to disrupt enemy operations and detain any insurgents in the area.

One more for the road: Battalion security detachment completes last mission Tuesday, 24 June 2008On a hot, dusty Monday morning at FOB Kalsu, Soldiers gathered by a row of humvees outside the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Brigade Troops Battalion headquarters. Some ate their breakfasts on the hoods of their vehicles. Others chatted or drank water while they prepared their vehicles for the day’s mission. It’s only 8:30 a.m., but the sun was already blazing hot. The conversation cheerful and familiar; these Soldiers have worked together almost every day for the past 13 months. Only the slightest hint showed that day was different from any other.

Signal Soldiers wire FOB Delta Tuesday, 24 June 2008“Running cable isn’t that interesting unless you stop and play with the puppy,” said Spc. Jennifer Dimitroff, a Lancaster, Calif., native assigned to Company B, 44th Expeditionary Signal Battalion.

CAFTT leads Iraqi Air Force to success Tuesday, 24 June 2008The Iraqi Air Force is one of the oldest air forces in the Middle East. Recent struggles weakened its capabilities, but now, the IqAF is moving once again toward a credible force capable of homeland defense with assistance from the Coalition Air Force Training Team.

IA detain 44, recover cache Tuesday, 24 June 2008Iraqi Army Soldiers detained 44 extremists and criminals wanted for arms possession and discovered a cache in the Hillah area June 22.

Lieutenant mentors Soldiers Monday, 23 June 2008“A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don't necessarily want to go, but ought to be,” said Rosalynn Carter, wife of former President Jimmy Carter.

A new vision Monday, 23 June 2008He gave her sight. Her father gave him vision.

Five suspects detained in Amarah Sunday, 22 June 2008Five suspected criminal extremists were detained by Iraqi Security Forces in Amarah June 20.

ISF seize weapon caches, detain 2 Sunday, 22 June 2008Iraqi Security Forces, advised by Coalition forces, seized three caches and detained two criminals during “Operation Sign of Peace” in Amarah, Iraq June 20.

Mass casualty exercise prepares for the worst Saturday, 21 June 2008Soldiers of 626th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), conducted a mass casualty exercise at the Camp Striker dining facility June 17.

703rd completes 1,000th mission Saturday, 21 June 2008In the words of author Ben Sweetland, “Success is a journey, not a destination.”

Romanians attend CLP Academy Saturday, 21 June 2008Soldiers from the Romanian 151st Infantry Battalion, 15th Mechanized Brigade went through the 7th Special Troops Battalion’s Combat Logistical Patrol Academy on COB Adder from May 19 to June 11.

Water resources healthy again in south Baghdad Saturday, 21 June 2008At a water purification station in Sekreechet, two Iraqi Army Soldiers keep an around-the-clock vigil. One of the rooms in the small structure nearby serves as a bedroom. A few meters away, another Soldier stands near a sandbag bunker, guarding a concrete-lined canal. Highway 8, one of the most heavily guarded roads in Iraq, runs a in the near distance. The guards watch this location because the canal and pump station are part of the most important infrastructure system in Iraq.

Al Kut Vo Tech opens new engineering annex Saturday, 21 June 2008Construction of a new engineering annex designed for auto repair and carpentry classes at the al Kut Vo Tech concluded with a ribbon cutting ceremony June 17.

Father’s influence helps Iron Brigade Soldier Saturday, 21 June 2008Captain Shawn Kapoor, 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment battalion surgeon, may tell you he joined the military because he was interested in the medical field. But in actuality, his decision to join the Army is much more personal.

Aviation unit reaches 800th reenlistment in Iraq Saturday, 21 June 2008During the last 35 days of its 15-month deployment, one unit proves it isn’t tough to keep Soldiers in the Army.

Aviation leader is awarded Order of St. MichaelFriday, 20 June 2008An aviation leader was recognized for his outstanding contribution to Army aviation at Baghdad International Airport June 18.

Feeding thousands - all in a day's workFriday, 20 June 2008Imagine feeding a brigade of hard-working, hungry Soldiers. Add to those 3,000 Soldiers, service members from other brigades, transient Soldiers, Coalition forces, civilian contractors and Army and Air Force Exchange System workers. The task seems overwhelming.

Iraqi child to receive life saving surgeries June 30 Thursday, 19 June 2008When she was born, doctors didn’t expect her to live a week, but a one-year-old Iraqi girl is defying the odds. She overcame the initial diagnosis, but without proper care, Noor Majeed could still die.

The music of Victory Thursday, 19 June 2008In an open area of the room, Spc. Thomas Hairston steps up to a microphone, preparing for lyrics to light up in front of him on a television. The music starts, and Hairston begins to sing at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation center on Camp Victory.

Abu al Jasim Clinic undergoing 30-day renovation Thursday, 19 June 2008The Abu al Jasim Health Clinic is getting a $28,600 facelift. Work on the facility began June 7 and is expected to take approximately 30 days.

Exercise improves communication, proacedures Thursday, 19 June 2008To help solidify and improve communication between units, Salvadoran and Georgian soldiers participated in a quick reaction force exercise June 13. U.S. Soldiers helped monitor and plan the exercise.

Navy EWOs keep Coalition ‘music’ running Thursday, 19 June 2008Working from a converted warehouse, a Navy crew keeps FOB Delta’s Counter Radio Electronic Warfare systems up to speed, ensuring that convoys in Wasit Province may confidently announce “music on,” signaling their CREW system is functional.

Chaplains jump start relationships Thursday, 19 June 2008One might jump start a car; or maybe kick start a motorcycle. But how do you jump start a relationship?

Rakkasans, IA continue history of air assaultsTuesday, 17 June 2008A long tradition of air assaults and a fledgling Army are coming together to secure Iraq.

Chaplain jumps Blue to GreenTuesday, 17 June 2008Some might assume that the Air Force’s first active-duty chaplain on permanent jump status would be serving at an Air Force base or even in an airborne unit. Instead, he tends to the spiritual needs of an Army logistics battalion.

IA recovers large cache near FOB FalconTuesday, 17 June 2008Iraqi Army soldiers recovered a cache near Forward Operating Base Falcon following a tip June 14.

Operation New Town molds trust in ShakriyahTuesday, 17 June 2008Iraqi Army Soldiers and Coalition forces conducted an air assault census mission, named “Operation New Town,” June 10 in Shakriyah.

Not your average reenlistment ceremonyMonday, 16 June 2008Soldiers of the 178th Military Police Detachment celebrated the reenlistment of four Iron Brigade Soldiers June 9. Unlike other reenlistments, this ceremony featured two unique Soldiers – military canines.

IA, Coalition forces conduct ‘Operation Chelsea Creek’Monday, 16 June 2008Iraqi Army Soldiers, assisted by Coalition forces, conducted an air assault mission in Yusifiyah June 14.

A Family Affair: Martial Arts is all in the familySunday, 15 June 2008As a child growing up in Phoenix, Staff Sgt. Dimas Estrada learned the sport of taekwondo from his father, a black belt. Continuing the family tradition, Estrada is passing on the ancient martial arts technique to his own children.

Teachers prepare to return to South Baghdad schoolsFriday, 13 June 2008For schoolchildren in the south Baghdad area, getting an education has become a difficult, even dangerous prospect in recent years. In some cases, supplies were short and facilities were in disrepair. Sometimes the teachers weren’t there. In a few cases, the schools themselves were all but gone.

‘Kick for Nick’ brings soccer to childrenThursday, 12 June 2008Receiving a soccer ball may not seem like a big deal to some, but for the Iraqi children who don’t have much in the Hay Mo’Alamen and al-Jursa neighborhoods of Musayyib, the round ball gives them something to entertain themselves with now that summer is here.

Soldier finds voice through poetryThursday, 12 June 2008She sat comfortably on stage, reading aloud a tumble of lyrics to a crowd of listening service members.

Coalition forces help displaced familiesThursday, 12 June 2008U.S. Soldiers donated water and school supplies to two internally displaced Iraqi families at the al-Nabaha School complex in Narhwan, June 5.

Pilots awarded Air Medal for valorTuesday, 10 June 2008Two pilots with Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division were awarded the Air Medal for valor for their actions during an engagement with an enemy anti-aircraft machine gun team.

Women find new opportunities in Arab JabourTuesday, 10 June 2008She wears a head scarf and long robe covering her from shoulder to toe; only her hands and face are visible. Yet despite her traditional clothing, Maha Aziz Abass Al-Jabouri is working hard to cast aside the stereotypical role of women in the Arab Jabour region.

IA finds cache southeast of HillahTuesday, 10 June 2008Iraqi Army Soldiers recovered a weapons cache June 6 in a rural area southeast of Hillah.

SoI, Soldiers make streets of Nine Nissan saferTuesday, 10 June 2008A small weapons cache was turned over to the Sons of Iraq in Nine Nissan, June 4.

IPs detain 3 in Musayyib areaTuesday, 10 June 2008Iraqi Police detained three high-value individuals June 5 in the Musayyib area.

Farmers union, ePRT, hatch plan to revitalize poultry industry in Arab JabourTuesday, 10 June 2008Members of the Baghdad-7 embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team finalized a long-anticipated plan which may dramatically improve the local poultry industry during a meeting of the Arab Jabour/al-Buaytha Farmers Union June 4.

Arab Jabour women see bright futureTuesday, 10 June 2008When al-Qaeda occupied this area, women had very few rights. Now, as democracy takes root, the women of Arab Jabour are becoming a vital part of the community’s economic life.

Feed mill gets Iraqi government boost in SayifiyahTuesday, 10 June 2008Farmers in Sayifiyah will soon have something they have lacked for the past five years: a local feed mill to support local agriculture. Thamer Hussain Kashool, owner of a feed mill out of operation since 2003, has completed the process of securing necessary funding to get his mill back in business.

Team Borlaug arrives at Camp VictoryMonday, 09 June 2008As Iraq transitions from security to rebuilding, the arrival and integration of the Borlaug Institute of Texas A&M University Agricultural Team will help in developing Iraqi agriculture.

Soldiers reflect on year of changeSunday, 08 June 2008As Spc. Robert Manchego sees the end of his deployment approaching, he reflects on a year of change. Most of the combat he now encounters is commanding virtual armies on his laptop computer during his downtime.

Kilroy promoted to colonelSunday, 08 June 2008On a hot and windy day, Soldiers from Task Force Tusken proudly looked on as Brig. Gen. Edward Cardon, 3rd Infantry Division deputy commanding general for support, promoted one of their senior leaders May 29.

GoI-funded I-CERP projects boost economySunday, 08 June 2008Residents of Khidr and Abu Shemshi recently received almost $2.5 million from the Government of Iraq to fund eight projects.

Rakkasans coordinate veterinarian visit in OwesatSaturday, 07 June 2008The Rakkasans organized a veterinary clinic at the Nasiriyah School in Owesat, May 31.

Military analyst sees signs of progress in Arab JabourSaturday, 07 June 2008The battlefield in Iraq has become a classroom for military analyst Steven Biddle and several associates, who visited 3rd Infantry Division Soldiers here June 4 to get a sense of progress in the area.

The chaplain experienceSaturday, 07 June 2008No Soldier is immune from the stresses of deployment; from the experienced general to the bright-eyed new private, everyone faces personal challenges.

479th Engineer Battalion receives new commanderFriday, 06 June 2008The 479th Engineer Battalion, from Watertown, N.Y., received a new commander during a change of command ceremony here June 5.

Solders, IP provide pens, smiles to local childrenThursday, 05 June 2008After being asked by Family members what he or his fellow Soldiers of the 230th Military Police Company needed for their deployment, one Soldier felt the unit didn’t need anything, but local Iraqi children could use some assistance.

South Baghdad economy booming againThursday, 05 June 2008When Capt. Shawn Carbone first took a good look at the south Baghdad area economy, he found it similar to his studies of America during the Great Depression of the 1930s.

Al-Kut agricultural union headquarters reopenThursday, 05 June 2008Agricultural industry representatives from around Wasit Province gathered June 2 in al-Kut, Iraq, to celebrate the reopening of the province’s agricultural union headquarters after its refurbishment in cooperation with Coalition forces.

IA Soldiers complete maintenance training courseWednesday, 04 June 2008Ten 8th Iraqi Army Division Soldiers graduated from the Unit-Level Maintenance Certification Course Class 01-08 May 29 at FOB Kalsu, 60 kilometers south of Baghdad.

ISF, Rakkasans recover two caches in Mahmudiyah areaWednesday, 04 June 2008A tip from an informant led Iraqi Security Forces and Rakkasan Soldiers to two separate weapons caches southwest of Baghdad, June 3.

Support Battalion Apache mechanics do heavy workTuesday, 03 June 2008Soldiers of Company B, 603rd Aviation Support Battalion handle one of the most important parts of AH-64 Apache Longbow phase maintenance – the 500-hour phase.

Rakkasans help mothers meet children’s needsTuesday, 03 June 2008More than 100 Iraqi families showed up to receive diapers, formula and cereal at the Radwaniyah Palace Complex Civil Military Operations Center, about seven kilometers southwest of Baghdad, May 31.

Detainees get a second chance with reconciliationTuesday, 03 June 2008“Not only has your family been waiting for you, but your country has been waiting for you. Go do good things and join in the rebuilding of Iraq,” said Turkey Sawady, a representative of the Jisr Diyala Nahia.

2nd BCT plants seeds of successMonday, 02 June 2008After nearly a year in Iraq as the last of the “surge brigades,” the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, has seen the south Baghdad area transformed from insurgent stronghold to model of peace and security. The gains made in security may not hold, however, unless citizens of this area are able to successfully continue their way of life. In the 2nd BCT’s area of operations, that mostly means agriculture.

Soldier volunteers for third deployment to serve with former commanderMonday, 02 June 2008Soldiers throughout the U.S. Army answer the call to duty in their own ways. For Sgt. 1st Class Marcus Butler, that answer came by volunteering to deploy with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division.

Sheikh support council meeting discusses issues, progressMonday, 02 June 2008A sheikh support council meeting brought sheiks and leaders of the Mada’in Qada together with their Coalition counterparts here May 28.

703rd Soldiers support their supportersMonday, 02 June 2008This past February, the Maintainers of the 703rd Brigade Support Battalion, initiated Operation Maintain the Home Front, a letter-writing campaign from Soldiers to their hometown newspapers.

Groundbreaking ceremony held for Iskandariyah courthouseMonday, 02 June 2008Iraqi leaders, including the chief justice of the Higher Judicial Council, unearthed heaping mounds of dirt May 28, in a ceremonial ground breaking where a new courthouse will stand in Iskandariyah, approximately 50 kilometers south of Baghdad.

Hawr Rajab business association meets with Soldiers, new town council chairMonday, 02 June 2008The Hawr Rajab Business Association met with members of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, May 29, to discuss efforts aimed at reviving commerce in the area.

Soldiers complete “100-mile” MayMonday, 02 June 2008In a creative approach to physical training, sixteen Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division took up the challenge of making May a 100-mile month.

Sand and songs: Soldiers work on CD in IraqMonday, 02 June 2008Despite sitting outside a housing unit in the oppressive heat of Iraq being bitten by mosquitoes, it seems nothing will stop Spc. Latita Miller and Spc. James McDaniel from their evening music sessions. The reason - they have an album to produce.

Lithuanians choose to stay the courseSunday, 01 June 2008With only a week remaining in their six-month tour in Iraq, soldiers from Lithuanian Contingent 10, Iron Wolf Brigade, faced a difficult choice.

10th Mountain Division assumes MND-C missionSunday, 01 June 2008A bright red and white flag with the words “Climb to Glory” now flies above Multi-National Division - Center headquarters, symbolizing the transfer of authority from the 3rd Infantry Division to the 10th Mountain Division, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spartans bring power to the peopleSunday, 01 June 2008The people of Arab Jabour had been left in the dark, due to increased violence.

Al-Wahida projects improve citizens’ way of lifeSunday, 01 June 2008A ribbon cutting celebrating the completion of one project, and a groundbreaking kicking off the start of another were held May 27 in al-Wahida. Both projects are aimed at improving the quality of life for area residents.

ISF, Coalition forces destroy ton of weaponsSaturday, 31 May 2008Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition forces destroyed a large weapons cache containing approximately 2,400 pounds of munitions May 28 in Karbala Province.

Food drop assists families in needFriday, 30 May 2008Iraqi families in need received nearly three tons of food from U.S. Soldiers southwest of Baghdad May 27-28.

Iron Brigade Soldiers earn combat patchThursday, 29 May 2008Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, officially marked their combat deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom by receiving their shoulder sleeve insignia for wartime service during a ceremony here May 26.

School gets help from Soldiers, U.S. childrenWednesday, 28 May 2008As if the last day of school wasn’t enough to put smiles on Kutimiyah children’s faces, they also received a special surprise courtesy of 3rd Infantry Division Soldiers.

Soldiers help Iraqis with drinking water, irrigationWednesday, 28 May 2008Iraqi farmers near Patrol Base Copper received new means to irrigate their fields and provide clean water for their families through Coalition assistance May 25.

200-pound bomb discovered in Arab Jabour fieldWednesday, 28 May 2008A member of the Sons of Iraq in Arab Jabour found a 200-pound bomb while clearing a farm field May 27.

Improvements being made at FOB HammerWednesday, 28 May 2008When Spc. William Hughes, found out he would be stationed at Forward Operating Base Hammer in April 2007, all he knew about the FOB was it had been recently built.

CF, ISF gather for voter registration planning sessionTuesday, 27 May 2008Coalition forces hosted a combined planning session on voter registration security with Iraqi Security Forces leadership May 22 at FOB Kalsu, approximately 60 kilometers south of Baghdad.

Vanguard Soldiers pay respect to fallen heroesTuesday, 27 May 2008Task Force Vanguard Soldiers honored their fallen brothers during a Memorial Day service May 26 at FOB Kalsu, 60 kilometers south of Baghdad.

26th BSB celebrates Memorial DayTuesday, 27 May 2008In the early morning light on May 26, standing in formation near their vehicles and equipment, Soldiers of the 26th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, gathered to remember those who lost their lives for their country and to strengthen bonds with those still serving.

Aviation Soldiers remember the fallenTuesday, 27 May 2008Soldiers of the Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, took the opportunity to remember fallen comrades during a Memorial Day Remembrance May 26 at the CAB flight line dining facility in Baghdad.

MEDEVAC unit trains Coalition forces on proceduresTuesday, 27 May 2008Problems that arise during aero-medical evacuation missions can seriously endanger the life of a patient.

Iraqi Police detain two HVIs in Seddah areaTuesday, 27 May 2008Iraqi Police detained two high value individuals who are suspected indirect fire experts May 22 in the Seddah area, approximately 65 kilometers south of Baghdad.

Iraqi girl travels to U.S. in effort to see for first timeMonday, 26 May 2008During a morning visit to Taha Naji Deyad’s house, 1st Lt. Michael Kendrick sits at the family table, eating flatbread with jam and fried eggs, and sipping chai tea.

Spartan Soldier earns battlefield promotionMonday, 26 May 2008Christian Stephenson has bided his time as a finance noncommissioned officer. Stephenson, who has been in the Army for eight years, was promoted to sergeant four years ago and became promotable to staff sergeant three years ago.

ISF, Coalition forces repair water pointMonday, 26 May 2008Iraqi Army and Coalition forces volunteered to repair a pothole at the municipal potable water point in Salman Pak, 15 kilometers southeast of Baghdad, May 21.

Chaplain assistant keeps Soldiers connected homeMonday, 26 May 2008When Sgt. Sean McCormick packed his bags for his second deployment to Iraq, he decided to bring his video camera, laptop computer and 40 recordable DVDs to show his wife at home how he was doing.

Rakkasans find large homemade explosive cacheMonday, 26 May 2008A tip led Rakkasan Soldiers to approximately 900 pounds of homemade explosives north of Patrol Base Shanghai, about 22 kilometers southwest of Baghdad, May 26.

IA, Coalition MiTT find cache at fish farmSunday, 25 May 2008Iraqi Army Soldiers and a Rakkasan Military Transition Team found a weapons cache in the water of a fish farm in Shubayshen, about 30 kilometers southwest of Baghdad, May 24.

Caches continue to pour in to Coalition forcesSaturday, 24 May 2008Amnesty drop off points are not a new idea in the Army. Whether coming off a range, field exercise or going through customs returning home from deployment, such drop off points give Soldiers a chance to discreetly dispose of contraband and avoid repercussions.

63rd EOD Battalion assumes control of CJTF Troy MND-CSaturday, 24 May 2008Lieutenant Colonel Marty Muchow and the 63rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Battalion assumed command of Combined Joint Task Force Troy in Multi-National Division – Center during a ceremony May 23 at Camp Deutsch, in southern Baghdad.

26th BSB assists getting IA logistics on lineSaturday, 24 May 2008U.S. Soldiers finalized two weeks of training with Iraqi Army Soldiers at Combat Outpost Murray to improve their battlefield logistics support capabilities May 22.

Kazakhstani soldiers make a splash at COP MurraySaturday, 24 May 2008The swimming pool at Combat Outpost Murray is slowly filling with water from the nearby Tigris River, thanks to six Kazakhstani soldiers.

Date palm trees sprayedSaturday, 24 May 2008One May 22, an aggressive aerial campaign in Sayafiyah and Arab Jabour targeted pests which had caused countless dollars in damage to palm trees over the past year.

IA, Rakkasans find cache in LutifiyahSaturday, 24 May 2008Iraqi and Rakkasan Soldiers uncovered a small cache west of Patrol Base Lutifiyah, about 40 kilometers south of Baghdad, May 23.

Keeping traffic flowingFriday, 23 May 2008With the Yusifiyah Pump station up and running, water is flowing into the Maderiyah area, 25 kilometers south of Baghdad, providing water for both drinking and irrigation.

VIP’s visit ZuwarijatFriday, 23 May 2008Iraqi Security Forces and government leaders, along with Coalition representatives met with prominent citizens of the Zuwarijat district of al-Kut, Iraq, May 21, to discuss security and reconstruction of the district in a town-hall forum.

Iraqi Police graduates move on to the forceFriday, 23 May 2008A group of 436 graduates from the Department of Border Enforcement academy here entered the ranks of the Iraqi Police force May 22.

Government officials, U.S. work to heal, uniteFriday, 23 May 2008For the first time in recent history, the Government of Iraq came to the aid of local residents requiring medical care in al-Betra and Owesat, about 25 kilometers southwest of Baghdad, May 20.

Al-Zuber School opens in Salman PakFriday, 23 May 2008Members of the Salman Pak city council and U.S. troops celebrated the reopening of al-Zuber School in Salman Pak, 15 kilometers southeast of Baghdad, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony May 21.

Government of Iraq making progress Friday, 23 May 2008A safer and more secure environment has not only brought Iraqis and their neighbors out of their homes to enjoy life, but has given the Government of Iraq a chance to reconnect with its citizens.

Battlefield promotions award extraordinary SoldiersFriday, 23 May 2008Twenty-two Multi-National Division - Center Soldiers have been approved for battlefield promotions. The effective date for their promotions is May 16.

With improved security, GoI improves quality of life in Mada’in QadaFriday, 23 May 2008Security gains made by Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition forces have allowed the Government of Iraq to significantly improve the quality of life in the Mada’in Qada, southeast of Baghdad.

Coalition forces care for Obeidi tribeFriday, 23 May 2008Members of the Obeidi tribe in Maderiyah, 25 kilometers south of Baghdad, have always relied on one another through difficult times.

Mada’in Qada security meetingThursday, 22 May 2008Leaders from the Iraqi Army, National Police and Iraqi Police met here May 21 with Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, to discuss security measures for an upcoming voter registration in the Mada’in Qada, in southeastern Baghdad Province.

Uthman Feed Mill renovations completeThursday, 22 May 2008After months of planning and hard work, the Uthman Feed Mill celebrated its completion of refurbishments in Mahmudiyah, about 26 kilometers south of Baghdad, May 21.

Rakkasans distribute supplies to Iraqi schoolsThursday, 22 May 2008Rakkasan Soldiers distributed school supplies to the Saad and al-Zuwaiti Schools, about 11 kilometers southwest of Baghdad, May 21.

Security pays dividends as surge brigade’s tour winds downThursday, 22 May 2008The numbers only begin to tell the story: 5,943 houses cleared, 1,433 suspects detained, 1,241 small-arms fire engagements, 577 weapons caches found and 532 improvised explosive devices safely destroyed.

Government of Iraq works to improve life in WasitThursday, 22 May 2008The Government of Iraq is undertaking a number of projects in Wasit Province to improve quality of life and provide jobs for citizens.

Soldiers receive the gift of golfThursday, 22 May 2008Soldiers stationed here received a pallet of golf gear May 20 from golf enthusiast military veterans back in the States.

Aviation unit flies 200th air assault mission in IraqWednesday, 21 May 2008As grand accomplishments go, Task Force Marne’s Combat Aviation Brigade’s 200th combat air assault mission during their current deployment to Iraq went off with as little fanfare as possible.

Sayafiyah celebrates changeWednesday, 21 May 2008After nearly three months of reconstruction, Sayafiyah residents celebrated the simultaneous openings of the Sayafiyah Governance Center, Veterinary Clinic and Health Clinic May 20.

Cavalry unit prepares for move following Iraq deploymentWednesday, 21 May 2008The Army is constantly changing and restructuring to best meet mission requirements. At times, missions may require the movement of entire units to new locations.

National Police detain four in raidWednesday, 21 May 2008The Iraqi National Police, supported by Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade, 1st Iraqi National Police Transition Team (NPTT), detained four suspected insurgents during a raid in Jisr Diyala, approximately 16 kilometers southeast of Baghdad, May 20.

Soldiers provide communications, supportWednesday, 21 May 2008Good communication is a critical component to the success of any military operation. Maintaining communications between Coalition forces stationed in Wasit Province proved a great challenge for Soldiers of the 214th Fires Brigade’s S-6 section here.

SoI, shaykh tip lead Rakkasans to huge cacheWednesday, 21 May 2008A local shaykh, informed by a Sons of Iraq member, gave a tip to Coalition forces leading them to a huge munitions cache approximately 13 kilometers south of Baghdad, May 21.

Sons of Iraq leader looks ahead to secure futureTuesday, 20 May 2008As a citizen of Bejiyah, Sadi Kalif knows his neighbors and their problems. As a former officer in the Iraqi Army, he knows the importance of security for the area’s citizens.

Aviation medics create family practiceTuesday, 20 May 2008Two medics dance separate jigs while one sings as they wait on the next patient.

Coalition forces provide aid in ZuwarijatTuesday, 20 May 2008Coalition forces provided medical care and supplies to more than 200 people during a medical assistance visit in the Zuwarijat district of al-Kut, Iraq, May 19.

Piledriver comes to an end, projects continueTuesday, 20 May 2008Operation Marne Piledriver kicked off in earnest April 15 with an Iraqi Army-led air assault and clearing operations in the Mahmudiyah area, about 26 kilometers south of Baghdad.

Suspected IED maker detained in al-WahidaTuesday, 20 May 2008In the early morning hours of May 19, Coalition forces successfully captured an alleged improvised explosive device cell leader who is believed to be involved in an IED attack that killed two Georgian soldiers earlier this month.

Soldiers send special Happy Birthday wishesMonday, 19 May 2008For one young man’s 24th birthday, this year’s celebration will be very hard to top.

Government of Iraq funds canal cleaningMonday, 19 May 2008The Government of Iraq is currently funding a canal-cleaning project in the Jurf as Sakhr and Ruwiyah areas, approximately 55 kilometers south of Baghdad.

Coalition helps Sayafiyah feed mill ownerMonday, 19 May 2008A Sayafiyah feed mill owner and operator received a U.S. Department of State microgrant May 16 to get his business going.

Radio station in Seddah to openMonday, 19 May 2008Coalition forces met May 15 with future members responsible for running a radio station in Seddah, approximately 65 kilometers south of Baghdad.

Citizens lead Soldiers to three cachesMonday, 19 May 2008Once a haven for insurgents to conduct operations and store weapons, the community of Maderiyah lived in fear. Now, citizens have turned against insurgents and are providing intelligence to secure their community, leading to the recovery of numerous weapons caches.

Coalition forces detain HVI in Diwaniyah Peninsula areaMonday, 19 May 2008Coalition forces detained two individuals, one of whom is a battalion-level high value individual, May 17 in the Diwaniyah Peninsula area, approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Baghdad.

Fishing pond opens at KalsuSunday, 18 May 2008Anglers at Forward Operating Base Kalsu now have a place to create fish stories with the grand opening of the FOB’s newly-built fishing pond May 15.

Racing Heroes Tour visits 4-27th FA SoldiersSunday, 18 May 2008From the New Hampshire International Speedway to the Auto Club Speedway of Southern California, auto racing spans across the States, providing excitement and entertainment to millions of Americans.

Soldiers distribute donated school suppliesSunday, 18 May 2008Coalition forces and Iraqi Army Soldiers distributed school supplies to students and faculty May 14 at the al-Qunaitirah Primary School in Jundil, approximately 55 kilometers south of Baghdad.

Mortar rounds, rocket foundSunday, 18 May 2008A local Iraqi gave information leading Iraqi Army Soldiers to a weapons cache in the Sharifat area, 12 miles south of Baghdad, May 18.

Weapons cache recovered at Four CornersSunday, 18 May 2008Members of the Sons of Iraq, National Police and Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 35th Armor Regiment, recovered a weapons cache in Four Corners, Iraq, May 16.

Marne Soldiers prepare Iraqi Army for battleSaturday, 17 May 2008Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, conducted training with their IA counterparts at Patrol Base Red May 15 to prepare the IA Soldiers for joint patrols.