/PRNewswire/ -- Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES), the global leader in broadband satellite networks and services, today announced that it has expanded provision of high-speed satellite Internet access for U.S. troops deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Available at U.S. military bases, the broadband Internet service is being delivered via the company's new operations hub in Dubai, enabling troops to stay in touch with family and friends at home, including sending photos and videos, connecting over social networking sites and making VoIP telephone calls.
"Hughes is proud to provide high-speed Internet service to our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, reinforcing the military's Morale, Welfare & Recreation [MWR] efforts in the region," said Rick Lober, vice president and general manager of Hughes Defense and Intelligence Systems Division. "Staying connected with spouses, children, extended family, and friends is essential for our troops' morale, especially as they often are deployed overseas for a year or more."
Payam Herischi, senior director of Hughes Global Services added, "Hughes has been providing broadband satellite terminals throughout the region since 2003, and the additional bandwidth and resources from our new Dubai-based hub now enables us to connect even more men and women of the military with their loved ones at home while they serve our country overseas."
Hughes high-speed satellite internet service is available at U.S. military bases in Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait, with local installation and logistics support provided by partner companies in the region. For more information on internet service for our troops, visit www.hughesglobalservices.com/mwr.html or email hughes-mwr@hughes.com.
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Showing posts with label iraq. Show all posts
Showing posts with label iraq. Show all posts
07 December 2009
28 October 2009
President Signs Legislation Committing U.S. to Iraq Withdrawal
/PRNewswire/ -- President Barack Obama today signed legislation that that formally recognizes the U.S. obligation to withdraw from Iraq and requires the Pentagon to provide quarterly reports on the progress of that withdrawal.
This is the first time since the invasion of Iraq in 2003 that Congress has passed legislation that affirms that the United States is committed to leaving Iraq by a specific date, two national Quaker organizations, the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) and the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) said today.
"We congratulate Senate Armed Services Chairman Carl Levin and House Armed Services Chairman Ike Skelton for including this important milestone in the 2010 military authorization bill," said Aura Kanegis, Director of Public Policy for the American Friends Service Committee. "The U.S.-Iraq bilateral agreement is so central to public discourse in Iraq, but too often forgotten in the U.S." The United States and Iraq signed a bilateral agreement in November 2008 that commits the United States to withdraw all military forces from Iraq by December 31, 2011.
The legislation signed by President Obama today requires the Pentagon to report to Congress every three months on progress to withdraw all U.S. troops, withdraw or transfer to Iraqi authorities all military equipment, close down or transfer to Iraqi authorities military bases, and release or transfer to Iraqi authorities all Iraqi detainees before the December 31, 2011 deadline.
"The first congressional effort to signal support for complete withdrawal was the ban on establishing permanent bases in Iraq," said Jim Fine, the Legislative Secretary on Foreign Policy at the Friends Committee on National Legislation. "Now the Pentagon will issue month by month reports on the progress made to close down bases or transfer them to the Iraqi government, which adds new teeth to this historic provision."
With this law, Congress has established unprecedented oversight of the progress made towards complete withdrawal from Iraq.
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This is the first time since the invasion of Iraq in 2003 that Congress has passed legislation that affirms that the United States is committed to leaving Iraq by a specific date, two national Quaker organizations, the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) and the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) said today.
"We congratulate Senate Armed Services Chairman Carl Levin and House Armed Services Chairman Ike Skelton for including this important milestone in the 2010 military authorization bill," said Aura Kanegis, Director of Public Policy for the American Friends Service Committee. "The U.S.-Iraq bilateral agreement is so central to public discourse in Iraq, but too often forgotten in the U.S." The United States and Iraq signed a bilateral agreement in November 2008 that commits the United States to withdraw all military forces from Iraq by December 31, 2011.
The legislation signed by President Obama today requires the Pentagon to report to Congress every three months on progress to withdraw all U.S. troops, withdraw or transfer to Iraqi authorities all military equipment, close down or transfer to Iraqi authorities military bases, and release or transfer to Iraqi authorities all Iraqi detainees before the December 31, 2011 deadline.
"The first congressional effort to signal support for complete withdrawal was the ban on establishing permanent bases in Iraq," said Jim Fine, the Legislative Secretary on Foreign Policy at the Friends Committee on National Legislation. "Now the Pentagon will issue month by month reports on the progress made to close down bases or transfer them to the Iraqi government, which adds new teeth to this historic provision."
With this law, Congress has established unprecedented oversight of the progress made towards complete withdrawal from Iraq.
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22 September 2009
Request for Support of LtCol Jeff Chessani
Note: We at the Georgia Front Page have NOT researched this situation. If this is something that hits one of your hot buttons, please look into the issue. It's noteworthy that this group is representing LtCol Jeff Chessani pro bono. One of our staff has heard a bit about the situation and believes it is a travesty that Chessani is having to go through this... - MM
This is a Brave Marine
September 22, 2009
From: Richard Thompson, Thomas More Law Center
Dear Fellow Patriot,
He refused to throw his men under the bus to save his career. So the government intends to grind him up using their overwhelming resources.
He served three tours of duty in Iraq, including the Second Battle of Fallujah. He also served in Panama and in the First Persian Gulf War. He honorably served his country as a Marine officer for over 20 years.
His superiors considered him a superb leader, who demonstrated moral courage, with unlimited potential and value to the Marine Corps.
LtCol Jeffrey Chessani will face a Military Board of Inquiry (BOI) before year’s end to determine whether he should be demoted in rank as a result of the so-called “Haditha Massacre” – a massacre everyone now knows never happened. This will be the government’s last chance to punish him.
The bogus charges against LtCol Chessani were triggered by a fierce house-to-house, room-by-room combat action taken by four Marines after their convoy was ambushed by insurgents in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005. The rest later.
LtCol Chessani was first criminally charged with failing to accurately report and investigate that incident. Essentially, the government said he did not file the proper paperwork. Pretty lame!
With your help, and the help of thousands of patriotic Americans, we were able to defeat the prosecution at every stage of the criminal process.
But in a BOI, the government can ignore the rules of evidence. The Board can consider files without the benefit of a cross examination; they will consider the tainted record of the Article 32 Hearing; LtCol Chessani cannot subpoena witnesses; and the government need only prove misconduct by a preponderance of the evidence (50.1%) rather than beyond a reasonable doubt.
Should they succeed this time, it will not only be a tragedy for LtCol Chessani and his family, but for all our troops placed in harm’s way.
Your generous financial support can help end this personal tragedy and injustice to Jeffrey Chessani and his family... and insure the future of America’s fighting spirit.
Remember, your contributions are tax deductible.
Now, for the rest of the story . . . .
At great risk to themselves, the four Marines stormed the two houses used by the insurgents to fire on the convoy, and in the ensuing gun battles killed at least 9 insurgents and 15 civilians.
These Marines were members of LtCol Chessani’s battalion - the 3rd Battalion, (“The Thundering Third”) 1st Marines - one of the most decorated units in the Marine Corps.
In urban combat where terrorists purposefully use civilians as human shields, civilian casualties are a tragic and unfortunate, but not uncommon occurrence. LtCol Chessani immediately reported the deaths of the 15 civilian Iraqis to his superiors.
The Pentagon had his battlefront report within 24 hours.
Not one of Jeffrey Chessani’s superiors – including top generals – learning of the 15 civilian deaths considered it unusual. Not one of them suggested an investigation. In fact, his superiors commended him for a job well done.
But an inflammatory Time Magazine news lead, instigated by an insurgent propaganda operative, accused the four Marines of massacring innocent civilians.
The leading anti-war politician, Pennsylvania Congressman John Murtha appeared on major television networks and stated there had been no firefight. He publicly accused the young enlisted Marines of “cold blooded” murder and Marine officers of a “cover-up.”
Political and media pressure caused the military to buckle. At least 65 fulltime investigators, the largest investigation in the history of the NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Services) were assigned to conduct a year-long, multi-million dollar investigation focused on LtCol Jeffrey Chessani and his four enlisted men.
Every patriotic American should be concerned with the outcome of this case because it could drastically curtail the future ability of American soldiers to defend our Nation.
For twenty years Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani has been defending our nation... often away from his wife and children... so that we could be safely with ours.
LtCol Chessani could be forced to retire and be demoted in rank, which could potentially cost his family hundreds of thousands of dollars in retirement benefits. For a man and family that dedicated their lives to the defense of our great nation – you and I cannot allow this to happen. It’s mind-boggling that our government is sparing no expense to exact a pound of flesh from one of the most effective combat officers in Iraq on trumped-up charges.
I am aware that these are hard economic times for many, but please consider the sacrifices that LtCol Chessani and his wife and children have made for each of us and our families, so that we may have peace at home. This is one of those times that you can show your gratitude. So please be as generous as you can.
LtCol Paul Ware, USMC, a judicial officer who heard testimony in several cases involving the November 19th Haditha incident, had this to say about the incident:
"To believe the government version of facts is to disregard clear and convincing evidence to the contrary and sets a dangerous precedent that, in my opinion, may encourage others to bear false witness against Marines as a tactic to erode public support of the Marine Corps and mission in Iraq. Even more dangerous is the potential that a Marine may hesitate at the critical moment when facing the enemy..."
Note the absurdity of it all... LtCol Chessani is charged with failing to accurately report and investigate a crime that the military now knows never happened.
With their false accusation, insurgents eliminated one of America’s most effective combat officers. They know...
“A nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten.”
Our representation of LtCol Chessani is without charge. But we need your financial support to carry on this fight.
Without our help, LtCol Chessani’s legal bills would already be astronomical — out of reach for a husband and father of six young children (the seventh on the way) surviving on military pay.
In preparing for the Board of Inquiry, TMLC lawyers will again examine thousands of pages of investigative reports and personally interview countless witnesses.
The Board of Inquiry will take place at Camp Pendleton, California. It could last several weeks. The Thomas More Law Center will bear the enormous costs associated with establishing a second office, paying hotels, and all the other expenses associated with two lawyers handling a case 2,000 miles away.
LtCol Chessani was in Iraq because his country sent him there. He willingly answered the call to serve his country in our defense. That's why he deserves the support of every patriotic American. Now is the time to show him our gratitude.
As tragic as these civilian deaths in Haditha were, it’s essential that we not shackle our combat commanders’ ability to make decisions by placing them in fear of criminal prosecution every time there are civilian casualties as a result of combat action.
LtCol Chessani has devoted his life to the defense of OUR country... NOW he needs OUR help.
I am counting on you to send the largest gift you can . . . and to rush it to me TODAY. Please click here to visit TMLC’s website to donate to this brave Marine’s cause NOW.
May God bless you, and may God continue to bless America.
Richard Thompson, Esq.
President and Chief Counsel
Thomas More Law Center
"The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive veterans of early wars were treated and appreciated by our nation."
-George Washington-
Please visit TMLC's website by clicking here to subscribe to News Alerts and read more details about LtCol Chessani's case.
This is a Brave Marine
September 22, 2009
From: Richard Thompson, Thomas More Law Center
Dear Fellow Patriot,
He refused to throw his men under the bus to save his career. So the government intends to grind him up using their overwhelming resources.
He served three tours of duty in Iraq, including the Second Battle of Fallujah. He also served in Panama and in the First Persian Gulf War. He honorably served his country as a Marine officer for over 20 years.
His superiors considered him a superb leader, who demonstrated moral courage, with unlimited potential and value to the Marine Corps.
LtCol Jeffrey Chessani will face a Military Board of Inquiry (BOI) before year’s end to determine whether he should be demoted in rank as a result of the so-called “Haditha Massacre” – a massacre everyone now knows never happened. This will be the government’s last chance to punish him.
The bogus charges against LtCol Chessani were triggered by a fierce house-to-house, room-by-room combat action taken by four Marines after their convoy was ambushed by insurgents in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005. The rest later.
LtCol Chessani was first criminally charged with failing to accurately report and investigate that incident. Essentially, the government said he did not file the proper paperwork. Pretty lame!
With your help, and the help of thousands of patriotic Americans, we were able to defeat the prosecution at every stage of the criminal process.
But in a BOI, the government can ignore the rules of evidence. The Board can consider files without the benefit of a cross examination; they will consider the tainted record of the Article 32 Hearing; LtCol Chessani cannot subpoena witnesses; and the government need only prove misconduct by a preponderance of the evidence (50.1%) rather than beyond a reasonable doubt.
Should they succeed this time, it will not only be a tragedy for LtCol Chessani and his family, but for all our troops placed in harm’s way.
Your generous financial support can help end this personal tragedy and injustice to Jeffrey Chessani and his family... and insure the future of America’s fighting spirit.
Remember, your contributions are tax deductible.
Now, for the rest of the story . . . .
At great risk to themselves, the four Marines stormed the two houses used by the insurgents to fire on the convoy, and in the ensuing gun battles killed at least 9 insurgents and 15 civilians.
These Marines were members of LtCol Chessani’s battalion - the 3rd Battalion, (“The Thundering Third”) 1st Marines - one of the most decorated units in the Marine Corps.
In urban combat where terrorists purposefully use civilians as human shields, civilian casualties are a tragic and unfortunate, but not uncommon occurrence. LtCol Chessani immediately reported the deaths of the 15 civilian Iraqis to his superiors.
The Pentagon had his battlefront report within 24 hours.
Not one of Jeffrey Chessani’s superiors – including top generals – learning of the 15 civilian deaths considered it unusual. Not one of them suggested an investigation. In fact, his superiors commended him for a job well done.
But an inflammatory Time Magazine news lead, instigated by an insurgent propaganda operative, accused the four Marines of massacring innocent civilians.
The leading anti-war politician, Pennsylvania Congressman John Murtha appeared on major television networks and stated there had been no firefight. He publicly accused the young enlisted Marines of “cold blooded” murder and Marine officers of a “cover-up.”
Political and media pressure caused the military to buckle. At least 65 fulltime investigators, the largest investigation in the history of the NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Services) were assigned to conduct a year-long, multi-million dollar investigation focused on LtCol Jeffrey Chessani and his four enlisted men.
Every patriotic American should be concerned with the outcome of this case because it could drastically curtail the future ability of American soldiers to defend our Nation.
For twenty years Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Chessani has been defending our nation... often away from his wife and children... so that we could be safely with ours.
LtCol Chessani could be forced to retire and be demoted in rank, which could potentially cost his family hundreds of thousands of dollars in retirement benefits. For a man and family that dedicated their lives to the defense of our great nation – you and I cannot allow this to happen. It’s mind-boggling that our government is sparing no expense to exact a pound of flesh from one of the most effective combat officers in Iraq on trumped-up charges.
I am aware that these are hard economic times for many, but please consider the sacrifices that LtCol Chessani and his wife and children have made for each of us and our families, so that we may have peace at home. This is one of those times that you can show your gratitude. So please be as generous as you can.
LtCol Paul Ware, USMC, a judicial officer who heard testimony in several cases involving the November 19th Haditha incident, had this to say about the incident:
"To believe the government version of facts is to disregard clear and convincing evidence to the contrary and sets a dangerous precedent that, in my opinion, may encourage others to bear false witness against Marines as a tactic to erode public support of the Marine Corps and mission in Iraq. Even more dangerous is the potential that a Marine may hesitate at the critical moment when facing the enemy..."
Note the absurdity of it all... LtCol Chessani is charged with failing to accurately report and investigate a crime that the military now knows never happened.
With their false accusation, insurgents eliminated one of America’s most effective combat officers. They know...
“A nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten.”
Our representation of LtCol Chessani is without charge. But we need your financial support to carry on this fight.
Without our help, LtCol Chessani’s legal bills would already be astronomical — out of reach for a husband and father of six young children (the seventh on the way) surviving on military pay.
In preparing for the Board of Inquiry, TMLC lawyers will again examine thousands of pages of investigative reports and personally interview countless witnesses.
The Board of Inquiry will take place at Camp Pendleton, California. It could last several weeks. The Thomas More Law Center will bear the enormous costs associated with establishing a second office, paying hotels, and all the other expenses associated with two lawyers handling a case 2,000 miles away.
LtCol Chessani was in Iraq because his country sent him there. He willingly answered the call to serve his country in our defense. That's why he deserves the support of every patriotic American. Now is the time to show him our gratitude.
As tragic as these civilian deaths in Haditha were, it’s essential that we not shackle our combat commanders’ ability to make decisions by placing them in fear of criminal prosecution every time there are civilian casualties as a result of combat action.
LtCol Chessani has devoted his life to the defense of OUR country... NOW he needs OUR help.
I am counting on you to send the largest gift you can . . . and to rush it to me TODAY. Please click here to visit TMLC’s website to donate to this brave Marine’s cause NOW.
May God bless you, and may God continue to bless America.
Richard Thompson, Esq.
President and Chief Counsel
Thomas More Law Center
"The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive veterans of early wars were treated and appreciated by our nation."
-George Washington-
Please visit TMLC's website by clicking here to subscribe to News Alerts and read more details about LtCol Chessani's case.
19 September 2009
Game Time for Sledgehammer Soldiers
.JPG)
Players from the Atlanta Falcons took time to play video games against Soldiers representing the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, and Soldiers currently deployed to Qatar and Afghanistan Sept. 15, at the Falcon's training facility in Flowery Branch, Ga.The event was sponsored by Pro vs. G.I. Joe, a non-profit support organization, and the Uniformed Services Organization in an effort to provide a fun diversion for Soldiers.
“Its professional athletes and video games, what can be better than that?” said Greg Zinone, co-founder of Pro vs. G.I. Joe.
He said it is his way of giving something to the Soldiers that do so much to protect America, citing the organizations motto; doin' a little for those who do a lot.
The event included families of Soldier's currently deployed, who were able to video chat with their family members after the games were over.
“It is amazing what they can do with technology now,” said Pfc. Colin Wilbur, Headquarters Troop, 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd HBCT, 3rd ID. “When we deploy, I hope we can do this again so I can play from Iraq.”
For the Falcon's players, the day was much more than video games.
“Anytime we, as professional athletes, can show our appreciation to the military, we jump at the chance,” said Atlanta Falcon's Brian Finneran.
Besides the player's autographs and Falcons merchandise, Soldiers had chances to win custom Pro vs. G.I. Joe Guitar Hero controllers.
“I know my guys had a lot of fun,” said Sgt. Lance Wail, Brigade Fire Support Sergeant, 3rd HBCT. “And that is really what it's all about.”
More photos: http://www.georgiafrontpage.com/military/09/9-19-09_sledgehammer.html
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28 August 2009
GAEC Director Foster to Supervise MMA Event for U.S. Troops in Iraq
Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission Director Andrew Foster has been selected to serve as Official Event Supervisor for a mixed-martial arts event in Iraq. The event is sponsored by Armed Forces Entertainment, and the tour will be hosted by the Army Brigade Command and Central Command. This is the first MMA event held for members of the Armed Services in Iraq.
“I am honored to participate in this event and pleased to provide this form of popular entertainment to the men and women who serve our country,” Foster said. “I am grateful to offer my expertise to help ensure a safe environment for the fighters and our dedicated troops.”
“Andy has a respected reputation as the director of the GAEC and through his experience as an MMA fighter,” Georgia Secretary of State Handel said. “He will serve as an excellent ambassador for Georgia and the GAEC.”
Foster will travel with a group of promoters and representatives from the International Combat Sports Federation, and judges and referees to Iraq in September. The group will visit several different Iraqi bases, and hold a main event match in Mosul. In addition, troops stationed at the base will meet the fighters, have the opportunity to work out with them, and attend MMA seminars.
The promoter of the project is DD Productions, LLC, which is owned by Marine Corps spouse Monica Sanford. Most of the amateur and pro fighters participating are active duty military stationed in Iraq or the United States.
Andrew Foster started his jiu jitsu training in 1996 and his mixed martial arts training in 1998. Foster won both the Middleweight and the Light Heavyweight ISCF Mixed Martial Arts East Coast Championship Belts in 2004, after which he turned professional. Foster holds a 7-0 record in amateur MMA and a 9-2 professional record. In July 2007, Foster was named Head Referee of the Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission and was appointed to Executive Director in May 2008.
Armed Forces Entertainment is the lead Department of Defense agency for providing entertainment to U.S. military personnel serving overseas, with priority given to those in contingency operations and at remote and isolated locations. The Department of the Air Force is the executive agent of Armed Forces Entertainment. Founded in 1951, Armed Forces Entertainment brings a touch of home to more than 500,000 troops annually, embracing the best of Americana that stretches across all genres of entertainment. Visit www.armedforcesentertainment.com for more information.
Karen Handel was sworn in as Secretary of State in January 2007. The Secretary of State's office offers important services to our citizens and our business community. Among the office’s wide-ranging responsibilities, the Secretary of State is charged with conducting efficient and secure elections, the registration of corporations, and the regulation of securities and professional license holders. The office also oversees the Georgia Archives and the Capitol Museum.
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“I am honored to participate in this event and pleased to provide this form of popular entertainment to the men and women who serve our country,” Foster said. “I am grateful to offer my expertise to help ensure a safe environment for the fighters and our dedicated troops.”
“Andy has a respected reputation as the director of the GAEC and through his experience as an MMA fighter,” Georgia Secretary of State Handel said. “He will serve as an excellent ambassador for Georgia and the GAEC.”
Foster will travel with a group of promoters and representatives from the International Combat Sports Federation, and judges and referees to Iraq in September. The group will visit several different Iraqi bases, and hold a main event match in Mosul. In addition, troops stationed at the base will meet the fighters, have the opportunity to work out with them, and attend MMA seminars.
The promoter of the project is DD Productions, LLC, which is owned by Marine Corps spouse Monica Sanford. Most of the amateur and pro fighters participating are active duty military stationed in Iraq or the United States.
Andrew Foster started his jiu jitsu training in 1996 and his mixed martial arts training in 1998. Foster won both the Middleweight and the Light Heavyweight ISCF Mixed Martial Arts East Coast Championship Belts in 2004, after which he turned professional. Foster holds a 7-0 record in amateur MMA and a 9-2 professional record. In July 2007, Foster was named Head Referee of the Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission and was appointed to Executive Director in May 2008.
Armed Forces Entertainment is the lead Department of Defense agency for providing entertainment to U.S. military personnel serving overseas, with priority given to those in contingency operations and at remote and isolated locations. The Department of the Air Force is the executive agent of Armed Forces Entertainment. Founded in 1951, Armed Forces Entertainment brings a touch of home to more than 500,000 troops annually, embracing the best of Americana that stretches across all genres of entertainment. Visit www.armedforcesentertainment.com for more information.
Karen Handel was sworn in as Secretary of State in January 2007. The Secretary of State's office offers important services to our citizens and our business community. Among the office’s wide-ranging responsibilities, the Secretary of State is charged with conducting efficient and secure elections, the registration of corporations, and the regulation of securities and professional license holders. The office also oversees the Georgia Archives and the Capitol Museum.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
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www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
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29 June 2009
Statement Regarding June 30 U.S. Troop Withdrawal From Major Iraqi Cities
/PRNewswire/ -- The following statement was released by Qubad Talabani, the representative of the Kurdistan Regional Government to the United States:
The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is deeply grateful to the United States and the U.S. military for their role in liberating Iraq, and partnering with us as we build our federal democracy. Thanks to the sacrifices and valor of U.S. and coalition troops, Iraq has achieved many successes, including the drafting and ratification of a permanent constitution as well as executing several relatively smooth transitions of power following national and provincial elections.
Moreover, on July 25, those living in Iraqi Kurdistan will elect members of a new parliament, another step in our journey toward a full democracy in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
This progress, along with the relative stability throughout much of Iraq, though promising, should not lull international observers into a false sense of security. Recently, deadly bombings within Iraq have increased--just days before the June 30 withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq's urban areas. The KRG remains acutely concerned that the departure of U.S. forces has the potential to create an environment easily exploited by extremists and terrorists who desire to foment violence.
Furthermore, critical issues--essential to the stability of our country--remain unresolved, and the current fragile situation could easily degenerate into violence. These include:
1. Universal adherence to the constitution of Iraq.
2. Passage of oil and gas revenue-sharing legislation.
3. Resolution of Iraq's "disputed territories" through implementing
Article 140 of Iraq's Permanent Constitution.
We implore the Obama Administration to uphold its commitment to a phased, responsible withdrawal from Iraq. The existing Status of Forces Agreement signed between the U.S. and the Iraqi governments sets a firm date for U.S. troops to leave Iraq; however, It is our hope that the U.S. withdrawal will be no sooner than the resolution of these key political issues within Iraq -- establishing a foundation upon which Iraq will be able to successfully secure a peaceful future for the entire region.
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The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is deeply grateful to the United States and the U.S. military for their role in liberating Iraq, and partnering with us as we build our federal democracy. Thanks to the sacrifices and valor of U.S. and coalition troops, Iraq has achieved many successes, including the drafting and ratification of a permanent constitution as well as executing several relatively smooth transitions of power following national and provincial elections.
Moreover, on July 25, those living in Iraqi Kurdistan will elect members of a new parliament, another step in our journey toward a full democracy in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
This progress, along with the relative stability throughout much of Iraq, though promising, should not lull international observers into a false sense of security. Recently, deadly bombings within Iraq have increased--just days before the June 30 withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq's urban areas. The KRG remains acutely concerned that the departure of U.S. forces has the potential to create an environment easily exploited by extremists and terrorists who desire to foment violence.
Furthermore, critical issues--essential to the stability of our country--remain unresolved, and the current fragile situation could easily degenerate into violence. These include:
1. Universal adherence to the constitution of Iraq.
2. Passage of oil and gas revenue-sharing legislation.
3. Resolution of Iraq's "disputed territories" through implementing
Article 140 of Iraq's Permanent Constitution.
We implore the Obama Administration to uphold its commitment to a phased, responsible withdrawal from Iraq. The existing Status of Forces Agreement signed between the U.S. and the Iraqi governments sets a firm date for U.S. troops to leave Iraq; however, It is our hope that the U.S. withdrawal will be no sooner than the resolution of these key political issues within Iraq -- establishing a foundation upon which Iraq will be able to successfully secure a peaceful future for the entire region.
-----
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Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
20 May 2009
Joint Chiefs Chairman Lists Top Priorities
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff identified increasing Middle East security, revitalizing U.S. forces and focusing on global challenges as his top priorities in remarks at the Brookings Institution here yesterday.
Detailing his priority list, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen defined the broader Middle East as stretching from Lebanon to Iran and even including parts of South Asia.
Mullen cited the Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy President Barack Obama's administration unveiled in March as an example of the regional approach that's needed. "Certainly, our president and the new administration has put together a comprehensive strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan," he said. "And I felt this was vital -- to focus on the region, not just focus on one country or the other but, in fact, have a comprehensive strategy for the entire region."
The military contribution to security is necessary, Mullen said, but not sufficient. He emphasized the need for increased presence of nonmilitary U.S. agencies, and he called for better resourcing of the State Department and the rest of the American government, which he characterized as increasingly "expeditionary."
"I think it's an absolute priority that we resource our State Department and other agencies to do this, not just for the near term -- and we clearly need those resources in Afghanistan -- but also for the long term," he said.
The chairman said that in Iraq – where roughly 140,000 U.S. troops are deployed – the situation is "fragile" as forces began to draw down in accordance with agreements between Washington and Baghdad.
"And at the same time, we see the strategic growth of required forces in Afghanistan and, again, a focus on Afghanistan and Pakistan," he said. Mullen added that like Iraq, security in Afghanistan will depend on its own national security forces gaining momentum and responsibility.
"So [there is a] heavy focus, obviously, in my life and with my staff, in engagement on the broader Middle East. But a lot of what's going on there also applies to other parts of the world," he said.
Another of Mullen's priorities – focusing on the health of U.S. forces – also occupies much of his time, he said.
"There's a resilience in that force, a skip in their step, a capability that is truly extraordinary in its evolution, and really revolution, to become what I believe is the best counterinsurgency force in the world, and in doing so has set a standard about how quickly we can change, given the strategy is put in the right place," he said.
But despite their counterinsurgency progress in Iraq, he said, the U.S. military is under the strain of multiple deployments and combat stress. He said both the Army and Marine Corps are at their newly increased end strength, but that it will take some time before new troops are trained and can relieve current forces.
"Over the next 18 to 24 months, that stress is going to continue," he said. "And then after that, I can start to see a time where dwell time [at home stations between deployments] will increase, and we can start to bring the pressure down, based on what I understand right now."
The chairman also stressed the need to take care of injured troops – including those suffering from traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress -- and their families, and to care for the spouses and children of those killed.
"And when I say, 'take care of them,' I really mean take care of them for the rest of their lives," he said. "These are young people who have gone out, done what our country has asked them to do, and they should be well taken care of, not just by the Department of Defense or [Veterans Affairs], but by America -- communities throughout the land, reaching out to these young people, whose dreams haven't changed.
"They want their kids to go to school. They'd like to go to school. And they'd like to own a piece of the rock," he continued. "It's just the path has been altered. And as far as I'm concerned, we owe them that debt."
Mullen said the Defense Department budget should reflect its care for the people who commit to military service.
"We're going through a big debate right now about systems, major acquisition programs, what we should buy for the future," he said. "What we should buy for the future is to make sure we get it right for our people. That's health care, that's housing, that's benefits, that's the compensation package, that's bonuses -- all those kinds of things."
Mullen said his other priority is to make sure the United States is adequately engaged in parts of the world that don't fall under the U.S. Central Command, where American forces are engaged in both Iraq in Afghanistan.
"It's not a small globe," he said. "There are challenges that exist throughout the world, and [I'm] making sure right now, with so many of my forces focused in the Central Command area, that I have enough forces that are engaged in other parts of the world."
The chairman underscored how interwoven the world is – as evidenced by the global financial crisis – and said countries are "very dependent on each other."
"Stability is a key for the future in that regard," he said. "And along those lines, that stability -- again, not unlike Iraq and not unlike Afghanistan -- that stability is going to be a necessary condition, but not sufficient, because we need education development, we need economic development, we need good governance. Those are also key to progress, not [only] in the current conflicts, but progress in the future as well."
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
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Detailing his priority list, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen defined the broader Middle East as stretching from Lebanon to Iran and even including parts of South Asia.
Mullen cited the Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy President Barack Obama's administration unveiled in March as an example of the regional approach that's needed. "Certainly, our president and the new administration has put together a comprehensive strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan," he said. "And I felt this was vital -- to focus on the region, not just focus on one country or the other but, in fact, have a comprehensive strategy for the entire region."
The military contribution to security is necessary, Mullen said, but not sufficient. He emphasized the need for increased presence of nonmilitary U.S. agencies, and he called for better resourcing of the State Department and the rest of the American government, which he characterized as increasingly "expeditionary."
"I think it's an absolute priority that we resource our State Department and other agencies to do this, not just for the near term -- and we clearly need those resources in Afghanistan -- but also for the long term," he said.
The chairman said that in Iraq – where roughly 140,000 U.S. troops are deployed – the situation is "fragile" as forces began to draw down in accordance with agreements between Washington and Baghdad.
"And at the same time, we see the strategic growth of required forces in Afghanistan and, again, a focus on Afghanistan and Pakistan," he said. Mullen added that like Iraq, security in Afghanistan will depend on its own national security forces gaining momentum and responsibility.
"So [there is a] heavy focus, obviously, in my life and with my staff, in engagement on the broader Middle East. But a lot of what's going on there also applies to other parts of the world," he said.
Another of Mullen's priorities – focusing on the health of U.S. forces – also occupies much of his time, he said.
"There's a resilience in that force, a skip in their step, a capability that is truly extraordinary in its evolution, and really revolution, to become what I believe is the best counterinsurgency force in the world, and in doing so has set a standard about how quickly we can change, given the strategy is put in the right place," he said.
But despite their counterinsurgency progress in Iraq, he said, the U.S. military is under the strain of multiple deployments and combat stress. He said both the Army and Marine Corps are at their newly increased end strength, but that it will take some time before new troops are trained and can relieve current forces.
"Over the next 18 to 24 months, that stress is going to continue," he said. "And then after that, I can start to see a time where dwell time [at home stations between deployments] will increase, and we can start to bring the pressure down, based on what I understand right now."
The chairman also stressed the need to take care of injured troops – including those suffering from traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress -- and their families, and to care for the spouses and children of those killed.
"And when I say, 'take care of them,' I really mean take care of them for the rest of their lives," he said. "These are young people who have gone out, done what our country has asked them to do, and they should be well taken care of, not just by the Department of Defense or [Veterans Affairs], but by America -- communities throughout the land, reaching out to these young people, whose dreams haven't changed.
"They want their kids to go to school. They'd like to go to school. And they'd like to own a piece of the rock," he continued. "It's just the path has been altered. And as far as I'm concerned, we owe them that debt."
Mullen said the Defense Department budget should reflect its care for the people who commit to military service.
"We're going through a big debate right now about systems, major acquisition programs, what we should buy for the future," he said. "What we should buy for the future is to make sure we get it right for our people. That's health care, that's housing, that's benefits, that's the compensation package, that's bonuses -- all those kinds of things."
Mullen said his other priority is to make sure the United States is adequately engaged in parts of the world that don't fall under the U.S. Central Command, where American forces are engaged in both Iraq in Afghanistan.
"It's not a small globe," he said. "There are challenges that exist throughout the world, and [I'm] making sure right now, with so many of my forces focused in the Central Command area, that I have enough forces that are engaged in other parts of the world."
The chairman underscored how interwoven the world is – as evidenced by the global financial crisis – and said countries are "very dependent on each other."
"Stability is a key for the future in that regard," he said. "And along those lines, that stability -- again, not unlike Iraq and not unlike Afghanistan -- that stability is going to be a necessary condition, but not sufficient, because we need education development, we need economic development, we need good governance. Those are also key to progress, not [only] in the current conflicts, but progress in the future as well."
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
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26 February 2009
19 More Months in Iraq: How to Bring Immediate Relief
/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a statement from Veterans for America on President Obama's Iraq announcement:
As President Obama finalizes his Iraq withdrawal plans, Veterans for America urges President Obama to address the dire conditions on military bases and in communities here at home. Multiple tours, inadequate dwell time between tours, the continued use of stop loss orders and the heavy use of the National Guard all risk further damaging our military and undermining the faith that service members and their families have in their civilian and military leaders. Many of our brave service members and their families need immediate relief.
At least a dozen Army Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs) are scheduled to deploy to Iraq before the majority of troops are withdrawn. Virtually all units will be on at least their second tour and many will not have had adequate rest between their tours. Louisiana, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin will all send citizen soldier BCT's to Iraq over the next several months.
Oregon is scheduled to send the 41st BCT to war for a third time since 9/11. Many Oregon Guard members have not had the three years at home between tours that President Obama promised while campaigning.
As we continue to churn our troops for another 19 months, VFA urges civilian and military leaders to provide adequate dwell time for every service member and to cease our heavy reliance overseas on our National Guard. Our troops, their families and their communities deserve no less.
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As President Obama finalizes his Iraq withdrawal plans, Veterans for America urges President Obama to address the dire conditions on military bases and in communities here at home. Multiple tours, inadequate dwell time between tours, the continued use of stop loss orders and the heavy use of the National Guard all risk further damaging our military and undermining the faith that service members and their families have in their civilian and military leaders. Many of our brave service members and their families need immediate relief.
At least a dozen Army Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs) are scheduled to deploy to Iraq before the majority of troops are withdrawn. Virtually all units will be on at least their second tour and many will not have had adequate rest between their tours. Louisiana, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin will all send citizen soldier BCT's to Iraq over the next several months.
Oregon is scheduled to send the 41st BCT to war for a third time since 9/11. Many Oregon Guard members have not had the three years at home between tours that President Obama promised while campaigning.
As we continue to churn our troops for another 19 months, VFA urges civilian and military leaders to provide adequate dwell time for every service member and to cease our heavy reliance overseas on our National Guard. Our troops, their families and their communities deserve no less.
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20 July 2008
Statement by John McCain Campaign on Iraq
Today, McCain 2008 Senior Foreign Policy Advisor Randy Scheunemann issued the following statement:
"Barack Obama has said repeatedly that, if elected President, he would summon the Joint Chiefs of Staff and give them a new mission: get all U.S. forces out of Iraq within 16 months, regardless of the conditions on the ground. Today, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Admiral Mike Mullen, the nation's highest ranking officer, made clear that he believes such an approach could be 'very dangerous.' Admiral Mullen further added that his view is shared by U.S. commanders in Iraq, who are 'adamant about continuing progress, about making decisions based on what's actually happening in the battle space.' Barack Obama says he wants a 'safe and responsible' withdrawal from Iraq, but is stubbornly adhering to an unconditional withdrawal that places politics above the advice of our military commanders, the success of our troops, and the security of the American people. Barack Obama is wrong to advocate withdrawal at any cost just as he was wrong to o ppose the surge that has put victory within reach. It is a strategy for defeat, and it is the only strategy Barack Obama has ever supported."
"Barack Obama has said repeatedly that, if elected President, he would summon the Joint Chiefs of Staff and give them a new mission: get all U.S. forces out of Iraq within 16 months, regardless of the conditions on the ground. Today, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Admiral Mike Mullen, the nation's highest ranking officer, made clear that he believes such an approach could be 'very dangerous.' Admiral Mullen further added that his view is shared by U.S. commanders in Iraq, who are 'adamant about continuing progress, about making decisions based on what's actually happening in the battle space.' Barack Obama says he wants a 'safe and responsible' withdrawal from Iraq, but is stubbornly adhering to an unconditional withdrawal that places politics above the advice of our military commanders, the success of our troops, and the security of the American people. Barack Obama is wrong to advocate withdrawal at any cost just as he was wrong to o ppose the surge that has put victory within reach. It is a strategy for defeat, and it is the only strategy Barack Obama has ever supported."
16 July 2008
U.S. Will Allow Assessment Process to Run its Course in Iraq
Even with the positive trend lines in Iraq, leaders will not rush the assessment process for determining U.S. force levels in the country, Pentagon officials said today.
The assessment process is as transparent as the department can make it, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said today. While pundits have called for greater redeployments from Iraq, the department will wait and see what commanders recommend.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates finds his most valuable advice comes from commanders on the ground, and he will continue to rely on them, Whitman said.
"We are reaching that period of time when the post-surge assessment will be done," he said.
The last surge brigade combat team will leave Iraq by the end of this month. Commanders from all levels will give their recommendations on how things are going in their various parts of Iraq. Once the surge brigade leaves, commanders could decide on consolidation or repositioning of forces.
"Commanders are out there doing the work every day and have their eyes on the security situation," Whitman said. "They are the ones who should be making the judgment on what the way forward should be, and they will be making their recommendations through the chain of command."
Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq; Army Lt. Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, acting commander of U.S. Central Command; and Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, "will all be in a position to make recommendations to the secretary about the way forward," Whitman said.
The secretary will discuss their recommendations with President Bush, who will determine the appropriate way forward, the spokesman said. "I have to emphasize that there have been no decisions made yet, and we are just entering this period of assessment," Whitman said.
No one in the Pentagon is leaning forward trying to hurry the process, Whitman said. "I don't see people in this building trying to prejudge what the commanders might think is the best way forward," he said.
There is no doubt the security situation in Iraq has improved over the last several months, Whitman said. The surge provided the manpower needed to hold areas cleared of terrorists, and the additional brigades also allowed Iraqi security forces the time to train.
"All the trend lines tend to be very positive, which would indicate that there is potential for further drawdowns in Iraq," he said. "But there have been no decisions made with respect to the force posture beyond completion of the withdrawal of the surge brigades."
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
The assessment process is as transparent as the department can make it, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said today. While pundits have called for greater redeployments from Iraq, the department will wait and see what commanders recommend.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates finds his most valuable advice comes from commanders on the ground, and he will continue to rely on them, Whitman said.
"We are reaching that period of time when the post-surge assessment will be done," he said.
The last surge brigade combat team will leave Iraq by the end of this month. Commanders from all levels will give their recommendations on how things are going in their various parts of Iraq. Once the surge brigade leaves, commanders could decide on consolidation or repositioning of forces.
"Commanders are out there doing the work every day and have their eyes on the security situation," Whitman said. "They are the ones who should be making the judgment on what the way forward should be, and they will be making their recommendations through the chain of command."
Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq; Army Lt. Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, acting commander of U.S. Central Command; and Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, "will all be in a position to make recommendations to the secretary about the way forward," Whitman said.
The secretary will discuss their recommendations with President Bush, who will determine the appropriate way forward, the spokesman said. "I have to emphasize that there have been no decisions made yet, and we are just entering this period of assessment," Whitman said.
No one in the Pentagon is leaning forward trying to hurry the process, Whitman said. "I don't see people in this building trying to prejudge what the commanders might think is the best way forward," he said.
There is no doubt the security situation in Iraq has improved over the last several months, Whitman said. The surge provided the manpower needed to hold areas cleared of terrorists, and the additional brigades also allowed Iraqi security forces the time to train.
"All the trend lines tend to be very positive, which would indicate that there is potential for further drawdowns in Iraq," he said. "But there have been no decisions made with respect to the force posture beyond completion of the withdrawal of the surge brigades."
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
25 June 2008
Violence in Iraq Drops to Four-Year Low
Violence in Iraq dropped in May to its lowest level in four years, according to a Defense Department report released to Congress today (June 23, 2008).
The quarterly report, required by Congress, measured progress in the country in March through May of this year.
The report highlighted that all major violent indicators dropped during the reporting period by as much as 80 percent.
"Coalition and Iraqi forces' operations against al-Qaida in Iraq have degraded its ability to attack and terrorize the population," the report reads. The report concedes, though, that al-Qaida still remains a major threat, and that the recent progress is still "fragile, reversible and uneven."
Civilian deaths in May dropped to a two-year low. The report suggests that even the high-profile bombings that drove up civilian deaths in April are having less of an effect at inciting sectarian violence than other such attacks in the past.
The report hails the emergence of the Sons of Iraq, local security groups made up of citizens, as the most significant development in the past 18 months in Iraq. More than 100,000 Iraqi citizens now help to provide security for their towns, villages and neighborhoods, and the program has spread from primarily a Sunni initiative to Shiia and mixed communities as well.
The report also credits the Iraqi government's success at fighting illegal militias and Iranian-backed groups with contributing to lower levels of violence. The government's efforts have reinforced a greater public rejection of the militias, according to the report.
"Overall, the communal struggle for power and resources is becoming less violent," according to the report. "Many Iraqis are now settling their differences through debate and the political process, rather than open conflict."
Iraqi security forces have continued to improve, although at varying rates. The report cites Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's military drive in Basra as generating a positive response from all Iraqi communities.
"Despite some initial difficulties and the uneven performance of local police, Iraqi forces won the support of most Basrawis and a greater share of the Iraqi population," the report reads.
The report also notes that in many areas Iraqi forces are operating independently, or side-by-side with coalition forces, and that the Iraqi government is assuming a broader ownership of its security programs.
"These units consistently demonstrate a high level of proficiency in counterinsurgency operations against [al-Qaida in Iraq] and other extremist groups," the report reads.
Iran's support of extremist groups in Iraq is now the country's biggest security challenge, according to the report.
"Despite promises to Iraqi government to the contrary, Iran continues to fund, train, arm, and guide [Jaysh al-Mahdi] special groups and other Shiia extremist organizations," the report says.
Iraqi forces have uncovered "massive" weapons caches and ammunition of Iranian origin, some manufactured as recently as this year, the report notes.
Other assertions in the report include:
-- Expanded oil revenues are sufficient to support development and reconciliation programs;
-- The Iraqi economy is expected to grow by 7 percent this year;
-- Oil production is expected to increase by 10 percent this year;
-- Lower inflation has boosted Iraqi purchasing power and provided a more stable environment for private sector development. Core inflation dropped to 12 percent in 2007, down from 32 percent in 2006.
-- Capital budget execution continues to improve, but spending at all levels of government is still hampered by bureaucracy, corruption and sectarian division;
-- Iraqis have seen an increase in the delivery of essential services such as electricity, water, sanitation and health care, but overall Iraqi satisfaction with those services remains low.
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
The quarterly report, required by Congress, measured progress in the country in March through May of this year.
The report highlighted that all major violent indicators dropped during the reporting period by as much as 80 percent.
"Coalition and Iraqi forces' operations against al-Qaida in Iraq have degraded its ability to attack and terrorize the population," the report reads. The report concedes, though, that al-Qaida still remains a major threat, and that the recent progress is still "fragile, reversible and uneven."
Civilian deaths in May dropped to a two-year low. The report suggests that even the high-profile bombings that drove up civilian deaths in April are having less of an effect at inciting sectarian violence than other such attacks in the past.
The report hails the emergence of the Sons of Iraq, local security groups made up of citizens, as the most significant development in the past 18 months in Iraq. More than 100,000 Iraqi citizens now help to provide security for their towns, villages and neighborhoods, and the program has spread from primarily a Sunni initiative to Shiia and mixed communities as well.
The report also credits the Iraqi government's success at fighting illegal militias and Iranian-backed groups with contributing to lower levels of violence. The government's efforts have reinforced a greater public rejection of the militias, according to the report.
"Overall, the communal struggle for power and resources is becoming less violent," according to the report. "Many Iraqis are now settling their differences through debate and the political process, rather than open conflict."
Iraqi security forces have continued to improve, although at varying rates. The report cites Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's military drive in Basra as generating a positive response from all Iraqi communities.
"Despite some initial difficulties and the uneven performance of local police, Iraqi forces won the support of most Basrawis and a greater share of the Iraqi population," the report reads.
The report also notes that in many areas Iraqi forces are operating independently, or side-by-side with coalition forces, and that the Iraqi government is assuming a broader ownership of its security programs.
"These units consistently demonstrate a high level of proficiency in counterinsurgency operations against [al-Qaida in Iraq] and other extremist groups," the report reads.
Iran's support of extremist groups in Iraq is now the country's biggest security challenge, according to the report.
"Despite promises to Iraqi government to the contrary, Iran continues to fund, train, arm, and guide [Jaysh al-Mahdi] special groups and other Shiia extremist organizations," the report says.
Iraqi forces have uncovered "massive" weapons caches and ammunition of Iranian origin, some manufactured as recently as this year, the report notes.
Other assertions in the report include:
-- Expanded oil revenues are sufficient to support development and reconciliation programs;
-- The Iraqi economy is expected to grow by 7 percent this year;
-- Oil production is expected to increase by 10 percent this year;
-- Lower inflation has boosted Iraqi purchasing power and provided a more stable environment for private sector development. Core inflation dropped to 12 percent in 2007, down from 32 percent in 2006.
-- Capital budget execution continues to improve, but spending at all levels of government is still hampered by bureaucracy, corruption and sectarian division;
-- Iraqis have seen an increase in the delivery of essential services such as electricity, water, sanitation and health care, but overall Iraqi satisfaction with those services remains low.
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
24 June 2008
Attacks in Iraq Down 80 Percent Since June 2007, General Says
The number of weekly attacks in Iraq has dropped from about 1,200 a week in June 2007 to about 200 a week now, the commander of the tactical unit responsible for command and control of operations in Iraq said today.
Mirroring this reduction in violence has been a 70 percent decrease in roadside-bomb attacks and an 85 percent spike in the number of weapons caches coalition forces have found over the past year, Army Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, commander of Multinational Corps Iraq, told reporters via satellite from Baghdad at a Pentagon news conference.
"I attribute most of these hard-fought gains in security to a few key factors: our coalition forces aggressively pursuing the enemy, the improving capability of the Iraqi security forces, and the Iraqi people participating in the rebuilding process of Iraq," he said.
But the general tempered his optimism, characterizing security improvements as fragile gains that coalition troops are attempting to solidify as they build the capabilities of their Iraqi counterparts.
"While the improved security is a great achievement, we clearly understand that our progress is fragile, and we continue to work to make this progress irreversible," he said.
The general praised coalition troops for having al-Qaida "on its heels," yet he identified the organization as the "primary threat" remaining in Iraq. The terrorist group yesterday launched an attack in Baqouba that killed at least 15 people, including several police officers, and wounded dozens of others.
"Even though we assess that they are on the run, they are still capable of launching spectacular attacks," Austin said, noting yesterday's bombing in the Diyala province city. "As a result, our operations in the north are focused on defeating their capability to perform these attacks."
Austin cited recent operations in Mosul, Iraq's second-largest city, as examples of the increasing capabilities and effectiveness of Iraq's security forces. Combined forces in the Ninevah province city over the past four days detained 16 suspects, including four high-ranking al-Qaida operatives.
"We continue to aggressively pursue al-Qaida and to take away their safe havens and to close off all their escape routes when they try to flee," he said.
Austin, who assumed command of Multinational Corps Iraq in February, said coalition forces will continue helping to develop Iraq's national security operators under his leadership.
"I'm absolutely confident, based on the indicators from the last few months, that they'll continue to make significant improvements, and we will be with them, side by side, as they progress," he said.
Though they have made significant progress, Iraqi security forces in many instances are not yet prepared to take over day-to-day operations, thereby allowing coalition troops to assume an overwatch role, the general said.
Before Iraqi forces become autonomous, he said, they need to develop "combat enablers" with the capability of calling in and integrating fire support into formation. They also be capable of supporting themselves logistically, and begin using their own surveillance and reconnaissance to cull intelligence, then plan their own operations, the general said.
"We are working hand in hand with our coalition partners in all parts of the country," he said. "They have improved significantly, but we've been clear about saying that they're not there yet."
As Iraqi security forces mature in the midst of combating al-Qaida and Iranian-backed "special groups," they meanwhile are gaining the support and confidence of Iraqi citizens, the general said. The majority of Iraqis have rescinded allegiance to extremism, he added, praising the efforts of civilian security groups like the "Sons of Iraq."
"Now the overwhelming majority of the population has turned against the insurgents and the criminals," Austin said. "Iraqis understand that al-Qaida and outside influences are not in the best interest of their country."
Dovetailing with Iraqi security forces' rise in public status has been a reduction in the number of people being held in detention. A coalition-led detainee release program has freed roughly 4,000 people who combined forces have deemed nonthreatening.
"[It] demonstrates that the coalition is committed to the welfare of the Iraqi population and to reconciliation," he said.
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Mirroring this reduction in violence has been a 70 percent decrease in roadside-bomb attacks and an 85 percent spike in the number of weapons caches coalition forces have found over the past year, Army Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, commander of Multinational Corps Iraq, told reporters via satellite from Baghdad at a Pentagon news conference.
"I attribute most of these hard-fought gains in security to a few key factors: our coalition forces aggressively pursuing the enemy, the improving capability of the Iraqi security forces, and the Iraqi people participating in the rebuilding process of Iraq," he said.
But the general tempered his optimism, characterizing security improvements as fragile gains that coalition troops are attempting to solidify as they build the capabilities of their Iraqi counterparts.
"While the improved security is a great achievement, we clearly understand that our progress is fragile, and we continue to work to make this progress irreversible," he said.
The general praised coalition troops for having al-Qaida "on its heels," yet he identified the organization as the "primary threat" remaining in Iraq. The terrorist group yesterday launched an attack in Baqouba that killed at least 15 people, including several police officers, and wounded dozens of others.
"Even though we assess that they are on the run, they are still capable of launching spectacular attacks," Austin said, noting yesterday's bombing in the Diyala province city. "As a result, our operations in the north are focused on defeating their capability to perform these attacks."
Austin cited recent operations in Mosul, Iraq's second-largest city, as examples of the increasing capabilities and effectiveness of Iraq's security forces. Combined forces in the Ninevah province city over the past four days detained 16 suspects, including four high-ranking al-Qaida operatives.
"We continue to aggressively pursue al-Qaida and to take away their safe havens and to close off all their escape routes when they try to flee," he said.
Austin, who assumed command of Multinational Corps Iraq in February, said coalition forces will continue helping to develop Iraq's national security operators under his leadership.
"I'm absolutely confident, based on the indicators from the last few months, that they'll continue to make significant improvements, and we will be with them, side by side, as they progress," he said.
Though they have made significant progress, Iraqi security forces in many instances are not yet prepared to take over day-to-day operations, thereby allowing coalition troops to assume an overwatch role, the general said.
Before Iraqi forces become autonomous, he said, they need to develop "combat enablers" with the capability of calling in and integrating fire support into formation. They also be capable of supporting themselves logistically, and begin using their own surveillance and reconnaissance to cull intelligence, then plan their own operations, the general said.
"We are working hand in hand with our coalition partners in all parts of the country," he said. "They have improved significantly, but we've been clear about saying that they're not there yet."
As Iraqi security forces mature in the midst of combating al-Qaida and Iranian-backed "special groups," they meanwhile are gaining the support and confidence of Iraqi citizens, the general said. The majority of Iraqis have rescinded allegiance to extremism, he added, praising the efforts of civilian security groups like the "Sons of Iraq."
"Now the overwhelming majority of the population has turned against the insurgents and the criminals," Austin said. "Iraqis understand that al-Qaida and outside influences are not in the best interest of their country."
Dovetailing with Iraqi security forces' rise in public status has been a reduction in the number of people being held in detention. A coalition-led detainee release program has freed roughly 4,000 people who combined forces have deemed nonthreatening.
"[It] demonstrates that the coalition is committed to the welfare of the Iraqi population and to reconciliation," he said.
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
22 June 2008
Bush Lauds House Passage of War Funding, More GI Bill Benefits
President Bush today praised the House of Representatives for passing a supplemental war spending bill that includes expanded Montgomery GI Bill benefits, and he urged the Senate to quickly do the same.
Bush said last night's approval of about $162 billion for operations in Iraq and Afghanistan will provide vital resources to servicemembers waging the war on terror.
"This legislation gives our troops the funds they need to prevail without tying the hands of our commanders in the field or imposing artificial timetables for withdrawal," he said.
The bill, as passed, also includes provisions expanding the GI Bill and allowing servicemembers to transfer unused educational benefits to their spouses and children.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates first heard the transferability issue raised during a military spouses' group meeting at Fort Hood, Texas, and pitched the idea to President Bush. The president liked the concept so much that he included it in his State of the Union address in January. Bush said in May during a Military Spouse Day celebration at the White House that he hoped to be able to sign the legislation into law quickly.
"It is the absolute right thing to do," he told the spouses. "It should send a clear message that we care for you, we respect you, and we love you."
Gates has said he believes the measure would boost both recruiting and retention.
About 97 percent of servicemembers sign up for the Montgomery GI Bill, but only about 70 percent actually use the benefit, and typically they use about half of the 36 months of benefits available to them, officials said.
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Bush said last night's approval of about $162 billion for operations in Iraq and Afghanistan will provide vital resources to servicemembers waging the war on terror.
"This legislation gives our troops the funds they need to prevail without tying the hands of our commanders in the field or imposing artificial timetables for withdrawal," he said.
The bill, as passed, also includes provisions expanding the GI Bill and allowing servicemembers to transfer unused educational benefits to their spouses and children.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates first heard the transferability issue raised during a military spouses' group meeting at Fort Hood, Texas, and pitched the idea to President Bush. The president liked the concept so much that he included it in his State of the Union address in January. Bush said in May during a Military Spouse Day celebration at the White House that he hoped to be able to sign the legislation into law quickly.
"It is the absolute right thing to do," he told the spouses. "It should send a clear message that we care for you, we respect you, and we love you."
Gates has said he believes the measure would boost both recruiting and retention.
About 97 percent of servicemembers sign up for the Montgomery GI Bill, but only about 70 percent actually use the benefit, and typically they use about half of the 36 months of benefits available to them, officials said.
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
21 June 2008
Rebuilding Continues in Iraq Despite Setbacks
Coalition construction worth about $2.5 billion is under way in Iraq, despite attacks that have injured workers and damaged buildings, development delays caused by land-deed disputes, and low-level corruption.
Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq, responsible for developing the infrastructure of Iraq's Defense and Interior ministries, is managing more than 300 projects in various phases of completion: 170 under construction, 85 in contract negotiation, and 60 others being handed off to Iraqis.
But as Iraq rebuilds, concerns about site security and worker safety can exact hidden costs, said Navy Capt. John D. Rice, engineering staff director for Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq, or MNSTC-I.
"We've had workers injured, we've had sites attacked, we've had things damaged," he said in a conference call this morning. "So it is an issue, it is a cost."
Security threats around construction sites can cause employee absenteeism and extend projects beyond the expected date of completion, Rice said. He added that accessing the site itself can pose a challenge.
"It does impact the timeliness of construction, because sometimes workers are reluctant to come to a site, especially if an operation is ongoing," he said. "But once they get to the site, they're safe, because the contractors do provide security for them."
When awarding contracts, MNSCT-I officials weigh a contractor's success rate in safeguarding its employees as a deciding factor. The command evaluates each bidder on a province-by-province basis, Rice said.
Once a contract is awarded and construction begins, a coalition contracting officer and an Iraqi engineer ensure that workers are performing at a quality commensurate with the purchase price.
To date, construction benchmarks total more than $3.5 billion in completed projects, employing tens of thousands of Iraqis in the process. The finished work includes 860 police stations, border forts and training facilities for the Interior Ministry, and more than 130 installations, support bases and training areas for the Defense Ministry.
One major snag Rice encounters during rebuilding, however, occurs before a single shovel is lifted. "Getting actual land deeds to build these facilities -- regardless of whether I use American money or Iraqi money -- that's been very problematic for me," he said.
A land deed is a legal instrument that ensures a building can be lawfully constructed on a piece of property. Rice characterized the procedure of obtaining a land deed from a landowner in Iraq as an often-frustrating process.
Since coalition and Iraqi partners cannot legally build permanent facilities without a right to the land, workers construct temporary facilities in the interim so the mission can continue, Rice said.
"There's no mission impact, but from a sustainment standpoint, better to get this permanent facility done, and [obtaining] land deeds is really the biggest impact to me," he said. Procuring a deed, he added, frees coalition officials from owing money to a claimant to the property.
At the local level, Rice said, he has noticed tribal leaders attempting to charge contractors permit fees for bringing workers to a site or to access locally based utilities.
"I think it's the culture of the Iraqis that that's how they've done business throughout their history," he said. "We are abiding by the federal acquisition regulations. We're not paying kickbacks. We're not paying bribes.
"But is it happening at a lower level, at a subcontractor tier-level within a contract that we have?" he said. "It probably is."
Rice said he considers it a positive indicator that this brand of corruption is limited to the lowest levels and has not spilled into the higher echelons of Iraqi government.
"If you're talking corruption at a high level of government, I haven't seen any of that," he said. "I think the Iraqi government officials I've dealt with are awesome, very patriotic and want to do the right thing for the right reason. They understand the needs for their security forces and the development of them."
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq, responsible for developing the infrastructure of Iraq's Defense and Interior ministries, is managing more than 300 projects in various phases of completion: 170 under construction, 85 in contract negotiation, and 60 others being handed off to Iraqis.
But as Iraq rebuilds, concerns about site security and worker safety can exact hidden costs, said Navy Capt. John D. Rice, engineering staff director for Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq, or MNSTC-I.
"We've had workers injured, we've had sites attacked, we've had things damaged," he said in a conference call this morning. "So it is an issue, it is a cost."
Security threats around construction sites can cause employee absenteeism and extend projects beyond the expected date of completion, Rice said. He added that accessing the site itself can pose a challenge.
"It does impact the timeliness of construction, because sometimes workers are reluctant to come to a site, especially if an operation is ongoing," he said. "But once they get to the site, they're safe, because the contractors do provide security for them."
When awarding contracts, MNSCT-I officials weigh a contractor's success rate in safeguarding its employees as a deciding factor. The command evaluates each bidder on a province-by-province basis, Rice said.
Once a contract is awarded and construction begins, a coalition contracting officer and an Iraqi engineer ensure that workers are performing at a quality commensurate with the purchase price.
To date, construction benchmarks total more than $3.5 billion in completed projects, employing tens of thousands of Iraqis in the process. The finished work includes 860 police stations, border forts and training facilities for the Interior Ministry, and more than 130 installations, support bases and training areas for the Defense Ministry.
One major snag Rice encounters during rebuilding, however, occurs before a single shovel is lifted. "Getting actual land deeds to build these facilities -- regardless of whether I use American money or Iraqi money -- that's been very problematic for me," he said.
A land deed is a legal instrument that ensures a building can be lawfully constructed on a piece of property. Rice characterized the procedure of obtaining a land deed from a landowner in Iraq as an often-frustrating process.
Since coalition and Iraqi partners cannot legally build permanent facilities without a right to the land, workers construct temporary facilities in the interim so the mission can continue, Rice said.
"There's no mission impact, but from a sustainment standpoint, better to get this permanent facility done, and [obtaining] land deeds is really the biggest impact to me," he said. Procuring a deed, he added, frees coalition officials from owing money to a claimant to the property.
At the local level, Rice said, he has noticed tribal leaders attempting to charge contractors permit fees for bringing workers to a site or to access locally based utilities.
"I think it's the culture of the Iraqis that that's how they've done business throughout their history," he said. "We are abiding by the federal acquisition regulations. We're not paying kickbacks. We're not paying bribes.
"But is it happening at a lower level, at a subcontractor tier-level within a contract that we have?" he said. "It probably is."
Rice said he considers it a positive indicator that this brand of corruption is limited to the lowest levels and has not spilled into the higher echelons of Iraqi government.
"If you're talking corruption at a high level of government, I haven't seen any of that," he said. "I think the Iraqi government officials I've dealt with are awesome, very patriotic and want to do the right thing for the right reason. They understand the needs for their security forces and the development of them."
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
17 June 2008
Face of Defense: Engineer Returns to Iraq, Likes What He Sees
He was among the first helping rebuild key facilities in southern Iraq shortly after Saddam Hussein's regime was toppled.
This month, Army Lt. Col. Michael Darrow returned to Iraq on another U.S. Army Corps of Engineers mission. This time he will be the officer in charge of the Forat Area Office, overseeing 42 construction projects valued at $140 million in Babil, Karbala, Najaf, Qadisiyah and Wasit.
His staff -- 48 Iraqi engineers, 12 U.S. government civilians and 12 military personnel -- is responsible for a variety of essential service improvements in cities throughout that region including water treatment, sewers, schools, medical facilities and road paving.
He said the situation is definitely different compared to his assignment five years ago, when he came in with a six-person advance forward engineer support team.
"When we arrived, our first assignment was making assessments and immediate renovations to get key ministry facilities back up and functioning. We were responsible for projects in Iraq's four southern provinces of Basrah, Dhi Qar, Maysan and Muthanna," he explained.
"We knew we needed help, and one of our first initiatives was hiring 16 Iraqi engineers, all who originally were associated with the Ministry of Housing and Construction. Those individuals were a significant value-added asset," he said. "They had an extensive knowledge of the local market and tradesmen, their technical competence, especially in the electrical and mechanical fields, enhanced our capabilities, and they were able to visit the projects every day, even as the security requirements for coalition forces changed."
When his six-person team left in October 2003, about 170 projects worth $14.5 million "were somewhere in the process, some in the initial assessment, others being contracted out and some already completed," he said. The team was asked to renovate 49 schools, 24 ministry offices, 14 security and justice facilities, five fire stations, seven hospitals, six banks, five bridges and seven industrial complexes.
"It was an amazing amount of work, and we couldn't have gotten nearly as far as we did without those 16 Iraqi engineer associates being part of the team," he said.
What is especially gratifying to Darrow is that when he returned to Iraq this year, he learned the Iraqi engineers still are working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in essentially the same role.
"I'm very happy to see that those individuals are still part of the team, making a difference as Iraq moves forward," he said.
Darrow deployed from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Norfolk, Va., district, where he is the deputy commander. He and his wife, Dana, have three children and will be celebrating their 20th year of marriage in October.
By Norris Jones
Special to American Forces Press Service
Norris Jones serves with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Gulf Region South district.
This month, Army Lt. Col. Michael Darrow returned to Iraq on another U.S. Army Corps of Engineers mission. This time he will be the officer in charge of the Forat Area Office, overseeing 42 construction projects valued at $140 million in Babil, Karbala, Najaf, Qadisiyah and Wasit.
His staff -- 48 Iraqi engineers, 12 U.S. government civilians and 12 military personnel -- is responsible for a variety of essential service improvements in cities throughout that region including water treatment, sewers, schools, medical facilities and road paving.
He said the situation is definitely different compared to his assignment five years ago, when he came in with a six-person advance forward engineer support team.
"When we arrived, our first assignment was making assessments and immediate renovations to get key ministry facilities back up and functioning. We were responsible for projects in Iraq's four southern provinces of Basrah, Dhi Qar, Maysan and Muthanna," he explained.
"We knew we needed help, and one of our first initiatives was hiring 16 Iraqi engineers, all who originally were associated with the Ministry of Housing and Construction. Those individuals were a significant value-added asset," he said. "They had an extensive knowledge of the local market and tradesmen, their technical competence, especially in the electrical and mechanical fields, enhanced our capabilities, and they were able to visit the projects every day, even as the security requirements for coalition forces changed."
When his six-person team left in October 2003, about 170 projects worth $14.5 million "were somewhere in the process, some in the initial assessment, others being contracted out and some already completed," he said. The team was asked to renovate 49 schools, 24 ministry offices, 14 security and justice facilities, five fire stations, seven hospitals, six banks, five bridges and seven industrial complexes.
"It was an amazing amount of work, and we couldn't have gotten nearly as far as we did without those 16 Iraqi engineer associates being part of the team," he said.
What is especially gratifying to Darrow is that when he returned to Iraq this year, he learned the Iraqi engineers still are working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in essentially the same role.
"I'm very happy to see that those individuals are still part of the team, making a difference as Iraq moves forward," he said.
Darrow deployed from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Norfolk, Va., district, where he is the deputy commander. He and his wife, Dana, have three children and will be celebrating their 20th year of marriage in October.
By Norris Jones
Special to American Forces Press Service
Norris Jones serves with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Gulf Region South district.
05 June 2008
'String of Miracles' Benefits Iraqi Children
Playing outside her Baghdad home in January 2007, 6-year-old Shams couldn't have imagined that destiny was about to drastically change her life, along with the lives of many other Iraqi children.
Mortars don't discriminate between women or men, rich or poor, adults or children. One found Shams. It was a miracle Shams' father managed to flag down a passing U.S. military Humvee; it became the first in a string of miracles that love and generosity continue to facilitate.
Shams' emergency medical needs brought her to the combat support hospital in the International Zone here, where two surgeons worked to save the child's life -- one reattaching her arm, the other removing her leg. Need for further treatment brought her to the Baghdad-based National Iraqi Assistance Center, the U.S. military's humanitarian center, which for years linked detainees with relatives, settled compensation claims, and coordinated medical care for Iraqis.
When retired Marine Dan McFerrin was contacted for assistance, he and his employer, U.S. military contractor ECC, didn't think twice about pitching in. Thousands of miles, hundreds of phone calls, and dozens of loving, caring individuals later, Shams and her mother arrived at Shriners Hospital in Sacramento, Calif. There, Shams began 16 months of intensive rehabilitation, while across the United States and the Middle East, the next act had already begun to unfold.
McFerrin's wife, Brenda, had waited in Chicago to help mother and daughter through immigration and air terminals. She also was standing by to prevent potential red tape from ensnaring her patient and a medical transfer that had thus far been miraculously successful. But Brenda became the one ensnared, leading to her becoming the driving force behind creation of Children in Need International, a foundation offering acute medical care to children from destabilized nations that lack resources or funding for such treatment.
According to World Health Organization estimates, only about half of Iraq's former 34,000 physicians continue to practice in the country. An estimated 40 percent fled, 2,000 were killed, and others simply gave up when risk outweighed the good they could possibly accomplish without medicines, supplies or functioning equipment.
Not long after working together on Shams' case, Brenda enlisted Army reservist and National Iraqi Assistance Center veteran Staff Sgt. Marikay Satryano to join the Children in Need International team. Swapping military for civilian status, Marikay continues working with NIAC to screen medical cases for the group.
"Before patients come to us, they first see an Iraqi doctor," Satryano explained. "This raises confidence in local doctors, sending a message to the Iraqi people that they have competent professionals still active."
Navy Lt. Cmdr. Cedrick Jessup is NIAC's deputy director. "It's a very rewarding job where I get to meet a lot of Iraqi children," he said.
As of last month, NIAC -- currently under the supervision of 360th Civil Affairs Brigade -- has helped 216 children. "We get to see the job through from start to finish," Jessup said.
While treating patients as fairly as possible, the dynamics of triage often can seem unkind. Screening sometimes indicates conditions can be treated in country or are not serious enough to warrant immediate intervention. It can be heartbreaking telling other parents that their child's chance of survival, even with lengthy treatment in the most modern facilities, is extremely low and that the child cannot be recommended for assistance.
Jessup reports that 554 cases are now on NIAC's list of children likely to benefit from outside medical treatment. Though CINI's charter lists NIAC as its primary referral agency, the foundation also accepts referrals from other organizations and individuals. The number of children needing assistance far exceeds the newly formed organization's resources.
"Faced with hundreds of patients and limited financial resources, you must determine which cases are operable, and then concentrate on the ones you can help," Satryano acknowledged. "You do what you can, where you are, with what you have and with whomever is willing to help."
CINI's 2008 goal is to arrange treatment for 100 children. Half of these, as in Shams' case, will receive individual attention on an emergency-need basis. The other half will receive surgical or treatment interventions in specialized groups, including cardiac, ophthalmic, prosthetic, and plastic surgery for burns.
Already this year, CINI partnered with the Gift of Life volunteer cardiac team of U.S. and Jordanian physicians for the second annual Heart Mission. A dozen Iraqi and Jordanian children had their hearts surgically repaired at Al Khalidi Hospital in the Jordanian capital of Amman. Twelve children are now being identified to receive vision-restorative surgery this fall at Amman's Eye Specialty Hospital, which participates enthusiastically with CINI's efforts.
These medical exchanges not only benefit children, but also facilitate valuable technology and skills transfer while promoting international understanding and friendship. Treating children in Middle East regional hospitals, where language and culture are familiar, reduces stress for children and parents alike. CINI sends children abroad for medical care only when specific treatment is unavailable closer to home. Shriners Hospital, for example, specializes in treating badly burned children and those needing prostheses.
"The CINI Effect," as it's been called, seems to hinge on the ability Satryano and McFerrin have to pull together myriad resources on the spur of the moment to make miracles happen. From that first miracle with Shams to their most recent effort in May to get 5-month-old Fadi urgently needed heart surgery, the CINI duo does not allow the "impossible" to enter into the assistance equation.
"The CINI group is absolutely amazing to work with," Jessup said. "Success comes when so many people pull together to help one child."
By Elaine Eliah
Special to American Forces Press Service
Elaine Eliah works for the Inma Agribusiness Program, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development.
Mortars don't discriminate between women or men, rich or poor, adults or children. One found Shams. It was a miracle Shams' father managed to flag down a passing U.S. military Humvee; it became the first in a string of miracles that love and generosity continue to facilitate.
Shams' emergency medical needs brought her to the combat support hospital in the International Zone here, where two surgeons worked to save the child's life -- one reattaching her arm, the other removing her leg. Need for further treatment brought her to the Baghdad-based National Iraqi Assistance Center, the U.S. military's humanitarian center, which for years linked detainees with relatives, settled compensation claims, and coordinated medical care for Iraqis.
When retired Marine Dan McFerrin was contacted for assistance, he and his employer, U.S. military contractor ECC, didn't think twice about pitching in. Thousands of miles, hundreds of phone calls, and dozens of loving, caring individuals later, Shams and her mother arrived at Shriners Hospital in Sacramento, Calif. There, Shams began 16 months of intensive rehabilitation, while across the United States and the Middle East, the next act had already begun to unfold.
McFerrin's wife, Brenda, had waited in Chicago to help mother and daughter through immigration and air terminals. She also was standing by to prevent potential red tape from ensnaring her patient and a medical transfer that had thus far been miraculously successful. But Brenda became the one ensnared, leading to her becoming the driving force behind creation of Children in Need International, a foundation offering acute medical care to children from destabilized nations that lack resources or funding for such treatment.
According to World Health Organization estimates, only about half of Iraq's former 34,000 physicians continue to practice in the country. An estimated 40 percent fled, 2,000 were killed, and others simply gave up when risk outweighed the good they could possibly accomplish without medicines, supplies or functioning equipment.
Not long after working together on Shams' case, Brenda enlisted Army reservist and National Iraqi Assistance Center veteran Staff Sgt. Marikay Satryano to join the Children in Need International team. Swapping military for civilian status, Marikay continues working with NIAC to screen medical cases for the group.
"Before patients come to us, they first see an Iraqi doctor," Satryano explained. "This raises confidence in local doctors, sending a message to the Iraqi people that they have competent professionals still active."
Navy Lt. Cmdr. Cedrick Jessup is NIAC's deputy director. "It's a very rewarding job where I get to meet a lot of Iraqi children," he said.
As of last month, NIAC -- currently under the supervision of 360th Civil Affairs Brigade -- has helped 216 children. "We get to see the job through from start to finish," Jessup said.
While treating patients as fairly as possible, the dynamics of triage often can seem unkind. Screening sometimes indicates conditions can be treated in country or are not serious enough to warrant immediate intervention. It can be heartbreaking telling other parents that their child's chance of survival, even with lengthy treatment in the most modern facilities, is extremely low and that the child cannot be recommended for assistance.
Jessup reports that 554 cases are now on NIAC's list of children likely to benefit from outside medical treatment. Though CINI's charter lists NIAC as its primary referral agency, the foundation also accepts referrals from other organizations and individuals. The number of children needing assistance far exceeds the newly formed organization's resources.
"Faced with hundreds of patients and limited financial resources, you must determine which cases are operable, and then concentrate on the ones you can help," Satryano acknowledged. "You do what you can, where you are, with what you have and with whomever is willing to help."
CINI's 2008 goal is to arrange treatment for 100 children. Half of these, as in Shams' case, will receive individual attention on an emergency-need basis. The other half will receive surgical or treatment interventions in specialized groups, including cardiac, ophthalmic, prosthetic, and plastic surgery for burns.
Already this year, CINI partnered with the Gift of Life volunteer cardiac team of U.S. and Jordanian physicians for the second annual Heart Mission. A dozen Iraqi and Jordanian children had their hearts surgically repaired at Al Khalidi Hospital in the Jordanian capital of Amman. Twelve children are now being identified to receive vision-restorative surgery this fall at Amman's Eye Specialty Hospital, which participates enthusiastically with CINI's efforts.
These medical exchanges not only benefit children, but also facilitate valuable technology and skills transfer while promoting international understanding and friendship. Treating children in Middle East regional hospitals, where language and culture are familiar, reduces stress for children and parents alike. CINI sends children abroad for medical care only when specific treatment is unavailable closer to home. Shriners Hospital, for example, specializes in treating badly burned children and those needing prostheses.
"The CINI Effect," as it's been called, seems to hinge on the ability Satryano and McFerrin have to pull together myriad resources on the spur of the moment to make miracles happen. From that first miracle with Shams to their most recent effort in May to get 5-month-old Fadi urgently needed heart surgery, the CINI duo does not allow the "impossible" to enter into the assistance equation.
"The CINI group is absolutely amazing to work with," Jessup said. "Success comes when so many people pull together to help one child."
By Elaine Eliah
Special to American Forces Press Service
Elaine Eliah works for the Inma Agribusiness Program, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development.
31 May 2008
Soldiers Join Forces With Kansas City Runners to Help Brain Injury Victims
On opposite sides of the globe, two groups of people in very different environments worked together to raise money for individuals suffering from brain injuries.
This Memorial Day, Army soldiers deployed here were joined by an army of volunteer citizens in Kansas City, Kan., and the two fought as one for their causes.
Soldiers with 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment, joined the 21st Annual Amy Thompson Run to Daylight. The charity event consists of 2-mile and 8-kilometer events in Kansas City.
Amy Thompson was a 23-year-old college graduate enjoying her life as a third-grade teacher in Kansas City when she was shot twice in the head during an attempted robbery at a neighborhood party on Halloween night 1986. After awakening from a six-week coma, Thompson survived against terrible odds, struggling to resume life after a brain injury.
Although she fought valiantly for three years, Thompson died unexpectedly Christmas night 1989. On Memorial Day the previous year, a group of Thompson's closest friends and family began the Run to Daylight in her name.
"When run officials in the states contacted us with their desire for us to participate in their charity event, we immediately discovered that our struggles were very much related," said Army Capt. Peter Hofman, a chaplain with 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment. "We were very excited to participate in such a noble cause. And with Memorial Day upon us and the fact that servicemembers are suffering brain injuries in explosions, it just all fit. It made sense for us to join their cause."
Hofman coordinated with Kansas City officials to help make the run possible for servicemembers in Iraq.
Run officials in Kansas City were clearly excited about the troop involvement, as well. Newspaper articles and a special on the nightly news segment announced the runners would be joined by servicemembers in Iraq this year.
"The original plan was to have the soldiers conduct the run at the same time as the Kansas City runners. But ... that would be between 5 and 6 in the evening, which would make it somewhere around 110 degrees or higher in the desert," Mary Thompson O'Connor, Amy's sister and a run official, said on a special segment of Kansas City's KMBC-TV news show.
To show their support for the soldiers on their Memorial Day run, the Kansas City runners wore T-shirts honoring those serving in combat. Run officials also sent flyers, official city run bibs and T-shirts to those who would be running in Iraq.
O'Connor also insisted on providing the battalion with $1,200 in Amazon.com gift cards to be awarded to the top three male and female runners in both the 2-mile and 8-kilometer events.
Airmen and civilian contractors serving with 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment, soldiers ran along side the regiment.
"There was no shortage of volunteers willing to participate in such a good cause," Hofman said. "The average maximum participation has been 100 people in past events on the base. We were delighted to inform those in Kansas City that 147 people showed up in the early morning hours to participate in the Amy Thompson run."
"What better cause could you find for which to volunteer your time?" said 10th Brigade Support Battalion's Spc. David Andrade, 1st place runner of the 2-mile event. "You are benefiting your body with exercise while participating in a good cause and honoring America's servicemembers. And everyone could use an Amazon gift card."
Both groups of runners on each side of the world held a moment of silence before their run, honoring servicemembers. The 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment soldiers spoke aloud the names of 11 members of 1st Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, who were killed since their deployment began in September. A moment of silence followed each name.
By By Army Spc. Jason Jordan
Special to American Forces Press Service
Army Spc. Jason Jordan serves with 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division.
This Memorial Day, Army soldiers deployed here were joined by an army of volunteer citizens in Kansas City, Kan., and the two fought as one for their causes.
Soldiers with 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment, joined the 21st Annual Amy Thompson Run to Daylight. The charity event consists of 2-mile and 8-kilometer events in Kansas City.
Amy Thompson was a 23-year-old college graduate enjoying her life as a third-grade teacher in Kansas City when she was shot twice in the head during an attempted robbery at a neighborhood party on Halloween night 1986. After awakening from a six-week coma, Thompson survived against terrible odds, struggling to resume life after a brain injury.
Although she fought valiantly for three years, Thompson died unexpectedly Christmas night 1989. On Memorial Day the previous year, a group of Thompson's closest friends and family began the Run to Daylight in her name.
"When run officials in the states contacted us with their desire for us to participate in their charity event, we immediately discovered that our struggles were very much related," said Army Capt. Peter Hofman, a chaplain with 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment. "We were very excited to participate in such a noble cause. And with Memorial Day upon us and the fact that servicemembers are suffering brain injuries in explosions, it just all fit. It made sense for us to join their cause."
Hofman coordinated with Kansas City officials to help make the run possible for servicemembers in Iraq.
Run officials in Kansas City were clearly excited about the troop involvement, as well. Newspaper articles and a special on the nightly news segment announced the runners would be joined by servicemembers in Iraq this year.
"The original plan was to have the soldiers conduct the run at the same time as the Kansas City runners. But ... that would be between 5 and 6 in the evening, which would make it somewhere around 110 degrees or higher in the desert," Mary Thompson O'Connor, Amy's sister and a run official, said on a special segment of Kansas City's KMBC-TV news show.
To show their support for the soldiers on their Memorial Day run, the Kansas City runners wore T-shirts honoring those serving in combat. Run officials also sent flyers, official city run bibs and T-shirts to those who would be running in Iraq.
O'Connor also insisted on providing the battalion with $1,200 in Amazon.com gift cards to be awarded to the top three male and female runners in both the 2-mile and 8-kilometer events.
Airmen and civilian contractors serving with 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment, soldiers ran along side the regiment.
"There was no shortage of volunteers willing to participate in such a good cause," Hofman said. "The average maximum participation has been 100 people in past events on the base. We were delighted to inform those in Kansas City that 147 people showed up in the early morning hours to participate in the Amy Thompson run."
"What better cause could you find for which to volunteer your time?" said 10th Brigade Support Battalion's Spc. David Andrade, 1st place runner of the 2-mile event. "You are benefiting your body with exercise while participating in a good cause and honoring America's servicemembers. And everyone could use an Amazon gift card."
Both groups of runners on each side of the world held a moment of silence before their run, honoring servicemembers. The 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment soldiers spoke aloud the names of 11 members of 1st Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, who were killed since their deployment began in September. A moment of silence followed each name.
By By Army Spc. Jason Jordan
Special to American Forces Press Service
Army Spc. Jason Jordan serves with 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division.
21 May 2008
State Department, Coalition Troops Help Owner of Iraqi Feed Mill
Thamer Hussain Kashkool, a Sayafiyah, Iraq, feed mill owner, shows Mike Stevens, right, Baghdad 7 Embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team agriculture advisor, and Basil Razzak, embedded PRT economic bilingual bicultural advisor, the layout of his feed mill. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jason Stadel, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division A Sayafiyah, Iraq, feed mill owner received a U.S. State Department micro-grant May 16 to get his business going.
The mill was inoperable due to insurgent activities in the area.
"We always had to stay in our house," Thamer Hussain Kashkool said, adding that insurgents had stolen the mill's motor.
With most of the extremists driven out, the community is safer, and the focus has changed to rebuilding the agricultural-based economy.
Mike Stevens, Baghdad 7 Embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team agricultural advisor, said the mill's main purpose is to help area chicken farmers.
"We have a chicken coop ready to be stocked with 30,000 chicks," Stevens said. "We need this mill so we can stock the coops. The farmers need the mill to feed their chicks." Without a mill in the area, Sayafiyah farmers have to travel to Baghdad to buy feed, something Stevens wants to avoid.
The State Department grant gets Kashkool back on his feet to provide farmers with feed, Stevens said.
"We give them money to start, and then we encourage them to get loans from the Ministry of Agriculture to cover the rest, so we have Iraqis using Iraqi money," he explained.
Kashkool said he would use the start-up money to repair the mill's roof and to buy a generator, motor and various seeds.
In addition to chicken feed, the mill will produce feed for livestock and, eventually, for fish.
Kashool told Army Capt. Shawn Carbone, Baghdad 7 embedded PRT economic chief, that when the mill becomes fully operational he will be able to employ at least 14 people.
By Army Sgt. Jason Stadel
Special to American Forces Press Service
Army Sgt. Jason Stadel serves with the 3rd Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office.
20 January 2008
Soldiers Re-enlist to Commemorate 100th Army Reserve Anniversary
Photo: More than 100 Army Reserve soldiers gather at the Al Faw palace at Camp Victory, Iraq, Jan. 18, 2008, to reenlist during a ceremony marking the 100th Anniversary of the Army Reserve. U.S. Army photo by Master Sgt. Anthony Martinez
More than 100 mobilized Army Reserve soldiers deployed in Iraq and Kuwait raised their right hands and recited the oath of enlistment in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Army Reserve, in a ceremony here today.
In the grand rotunda of Al Faw Palace here, Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, issued the oath of enlistment and remarked on the continued commitment Army Reserve soldiers make in reenlisting.
"In places like Iraq, Afghanistan, the Horn of Africa, the Philippines and Latin America, Army reservists are bringing their warrior skills and their civilian trades to the fight," Petraeus (photo) said.
"As everyone here knows," Petraeus told the citizen-soldiers, "that combination is particularly effective in the exceedingly complex environments we face today -- environments that require our troopers to be not just warriors but also diplomats, builders, trainers, advisors, intelligence gatherers, service providers, economic developers and mediators."
"Citizen-soldiers perform these diverse roles expertly, and in so doing, they demonstrate the critical role members of the Army Reserve play in safeguarding freedom at home and defending it abroad," the general added.
"Indeed, I cannot think of a better way to honor the Army Reserve's first century of service than being part of a ceremony where so many great reservists raise their right hands and commit themselves to continue serving our nation," Petraeus said.
During the ceremony, Army Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz, chief of Army Reserve Command, commented on the transformation of the Army Reserve over the past 100 years.
"The Army Reserve was founded in 1908, but I can tell you that the Army Reserve of 2008 is vastly different than the Army Reserve of 1908," Stultz said.
"The Army Reserve today really is an operational force, an integrated part of the Army," Stultz added. "And there's no better way for us to kick off our 100th anniversary year and to symbolize what the Army Reserve today really is than to be able to conduct a re-enlistment ceremony here in Baghdad in the palace with 100 of our Army Reserve soldiers."
For many of the soldiers here today, the opportunity to participate was about more than just re-enlisting for themselves. It was a way to honor the service of those who came before them.
"I'm just one soldier, just one average 'joe,'" said Sgt. Jonathan Britt, a 25-year-old medic from Fayetteville, N.C., mobilized with 535th Military Police Battalion.
"I've only been in for two years, so for 98 years there were people upholding these traditions, and that's one of the reasons for me to re-enlist, to uphold the tradition, honor and integrity behind that -- not for my own personal sake but for those that served before me," Britt said.
Soldiers selected to participate in the commemorative ceremony are a sampling of the more than 1,876 Army Reserve soldiers who have reenlisted over the past 12 months while deployed in Iraq and Kuwait, according to the Army Reserve Retention and Transition Office here. Army Reserve re-enlistments in Iraq and Kuwait reflect approximately 20 percent of all re-enlistments for the Army Reserve worldwide, officials said.
(By Master Sgt. Anthony Martinez, USA Special to American Forces Press Service; Army Master Sgt. Anthony Martinez is assigned to the U.S. Army Reserve Command.)
In the grand rotunda of Al Faw Palace here, Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, issued the oath of enlistment and remarked on the continued commitment Army Reserve soldiers make in reenlisting.
"In places like Iraq, Afghanistan, the Horn of Africa, the Philippines and Latin America, Army reservists are bringing their warrior skills and their civilian trades to the fight," Petraeus (photo) said.
"As everyone here knows," Petraeus told the citizen-soldiers, "that combination is particularly effective in the exceedingly complex environments we face today -- environments that require our troopers to be not just warriors but also diplomats, builders, trainers, advisors, intelligence gatherers, service providers, economic developers and mediators.""Citizen-soldiers perform these diverse roles expertly, and in so doing, they demonstrate the critical role members of the Army Reserve play in safeguarding freedom at home and defending it abroad," the general added.
"Indeed, I cannot think of a better way to honor the Army Reserve's first century of service than being part of a ceremony where so many great reservists raise their right hands and commit themselves to continue serving our nation," Petraeus said.
During the ceremony, Army Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz, chief of Army Reserve Command, commented on the transformation of the Army Reserve over the past 100 years.
"The Army Reserve was founded in 1908, but I can tell you that the Army Reserve of 2008 is vastly different than the Army Reserve of 1908," Stultz said.
"The Army Reserve today really is an operational force, an integrated part of the Army," Stultz added. "And there's no better way for us to kick off our 100th anniversary year and to symbolize what the Army Reserve today really is than to be able to conduct a re-enlistment ceremony here in Baghdad in the palace with 100 of our Army Reserve soldiers."
For many of the soldiers here today, the opportunity to participate was about more than just re-enlisting for themselves. It was a way to honor the service of those who came before them.
"I'm just one soldier, just one average 'joe,'" said Sgt. Jonathan Britt, a 25-year-old medic from Fayetteville, N.C., mobilized with 535th Military Police Battalion.
"I've only been in for two years, so for 98 years there were people upholding these traditions, and that's one of the reasons for me to re-enlist, to uphold the tradition, honor and integrity behind that -- not for my own personal sake but for those that served before me," Britt said.
Soldiers selected to participate in the commemorative ceremony are a sampling of the more than 1,876 Army Reserve soldiers who have reenlisted over the past 12 months while deployed in Iraq and Kuwait, according to the Army Reserve Retention and Transition Office here. Army Reserve re-enlistments in Iraq and Kuwait reflect approximately 20 percent of all re-enlistments for the Army Reserve worldwide, officials said.
(By Master Sgt. Anthony Martinez, USA Special to American Forces Press Service; Army Master Sgt. Anthony Martinez is assigned to the U.S. Army Reserve Command.)
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