Saturday, July 21, 2007

Combat Camera: On Board USS Enterprise, 21 July 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 18, 2007) - An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, successfully completes an arrested landing on the flight deck of nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Airwing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brandon Morris (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 18, 2007) – Lt. Cmdr. Joseph Leber signals to launch a C-2A Greyhound, attached to the "Rawhides" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40, from the flight deck of nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Airwing (CVW 1) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class N.C. Kaylor (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 18, 2007) - Deck edge operator Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 1st Class Shawn Badley signals his hands are clear after launching an F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, from the flight deck of nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Airwing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class N.C. Kaylor (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 18, 2007) - An aviation boatswain's mate directs an F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, aboard nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kiona M. Mckissack (RELEASED

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 16, 2007) - An MH-60S Seahawk, attached to the "Chargers" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, delivers ordnance to the flight deck of nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise during a vertical replenishment. Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW 1) are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brandon Morris (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 13, 2007) - Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Terry Keyes passes control of the launch of an F/A-18C Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, to the shooter on the flight deck of nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kiona M. Mckissack (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
NORFOLK, Va. (July 7, 2007) - Sailors and Marines man the rails inside the hangar bay while preparing for USS Enterprise (CVN 65) to get underway. Enterprise deployed as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group along with the guided-missile destroyers USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51), USS Stout (DDG 55), USS J.E. Williams (DDG 95) and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98). Guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64), homeported in Mayport, Fla., and fast-attack submarine USS Philadelphia (SSN 690), homeported in Groton, Conn., are also part of the strike group. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lolita Lewis (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
NORFOLK, Va. (July 7, 2007) – Line handlers stand by as USS Enterprise (CVN 65) gets underway for a scheduled deployment. Enterprise deployed as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group along with the guided-missile destroyers USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51), USS Stout (DDG 55), USS J.E. Williams (DDG 95) and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98). Guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64), homeported in Mayport, Fla., and fast-attack submarine USS Philadelphia (SSN 690), homeported in Groton, Conn., are also part of the strike group. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lolita Lewis (RELEASED)

More Combat Camera Images on THE TENSION

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Global Tags:
, , , , , , , , ,

Maintain THE TENSION, visit the online store:
THE TENSION EXCHANGE

Shop Today's Deals at Amazon.com and Save!
Buy.com's Deal of the Day! A Different Product Every Day.

Labels:

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Friday, July 20, 2007

Combat Camera: Eye on the Fleet for 20 July 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (July 20, 2007) – Sea-Based X-band Radar (SBX) sits docked after returning to Pearl Harbor Naval Station for scheduled maintenance and planned system upgrades. Since departing Pearl Harbor last January, the SBX successfully demonstrated its ability to operate in the harsh winter weather conditions of the Pacific and participated in two tests of the Ballistic Missile Defense System. U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist John W. Ciccarelli Jr. (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
WASHINGTON (July 19, 2007) - A V-22 Osprey, from Marine Tiltrotor Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron (VMX) 22, hovers before landing at the Pentagon to pick up a group of military and civilian officials. The aircraft flew the group to British Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious (R 06), operating in the Atlantic Ocean, to observe Marine AV-8B Harriers participating in a joint exercise from the ship. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brandan W. Schulze (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 20, 2007) - Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) makes her way toward Fort Lauderdale, Fla., for a port visit. Truman is visiting Fort Lauderdale prior to participating in Operation Bold Step (OBS). OBS will provide realistic training environments for U.S. and coalition forces that closely replicate the operational challenges routinely encountered during military operations around the world. More than 15,000 service members from three countries are scheduled to participate in the joint task force exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ricardo J. Reyes (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
SOUDA BAY, Crete, Greece (July 17, 2007) - An EA-6B Prowler, assigned to Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VMAQ) 2, takes off following a transient stopover on Greece’s largest island. The mission of VMAQ-2 is to support the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Commander by conducting airborne electronic warfare, day or night, under all weather conditions, during expeditionary, joint, or combined operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mr. Paul Farley (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
DA NANG, Vietnam (July 16, 2007) - Local residents wait in line for a routine checkup during a medical civic action program at Truong Tieu Hoc Quy School in support of Pacific Partnership 2007. The Pacific Partnership team of non-governmental organizations, military personnel and local Vietnamese healthcare providers are conducting various medical, dental assistance programs in support of the Vietnamese Ministry of Health. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Patrick D. House (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 16, 2007) - An MH-60S Seahawk, from Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) Squadron 28, conducts night vertical replenishment training aboard Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20). Comfort is on a four-month humanitarian deployment to Latin America and the Caribbean to provide medical treatment to patients in a dozen countries. While deployed, Comfort is under operational control of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and tactical control of Destroyer Squadron 24. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Steven King (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
PERSIAN GULF (July 18, 2007) - Boatswain's mates from dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) recover the ship's 11-meter rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) with a 60-ton crane while the ship's flight deck crew refuels an HH-60H Seahawk from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 6. Rushmore is deployed to the Persian Gulf as part of Combined Task Force 158, a coalition task force charged with maintaining security in and around both the Al Basrah and Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminals in support of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1723. U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. Cathal O'Connor (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
PERSIAN GULF (July 18, 2007) - Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Susan Holt mans the starboard bow .50-caliber watch on nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) during replenishment at sea with Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7). Nimitz Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 are deployed to the 5th Fleet area of operations conducting maritime operations and supporting the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman David L. Smart (RELEASED)

More Combat Camera Images on THE TENSION

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Global Tags:
, , , , , , , , ,

Maintain THE TENSION, visit the online store:
THE TENSION EXCHANGE

Shop Today's Deals at Amazon.com and Save!
Buy.com's Deal of the Day! A Different Product Every Day.

Labels:

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Situation in Anbar has 'Turned the Corner,' U.S. General Says

News in balance
Maj. Gen. Walter E. Gaskin Dances with Iraqi citizens during a celebration in Ramadi, Iraq, July 7. The event had speeches, dancing and food for all who were present. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joseph D. Day.

News in Balance:


MajGen W.E. Gaskin, Commanding General of Multi-National Force-West, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), providing an update of ongoing operations in western Iraq.
Link: Iraq Briefing 20 July 2007

Anbar Situation Has 'Turned the Corner,' U.S. General Says
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service


WASHINGTON, July 20, 2007 -- The security situation in Anbar province has greatly improved in recent months, thanks to additional U.S. troops provided by the surge and the growing presence of trained and vetted Iraqi soldiers and police, a senior U.S. military officer said today.

Statistics show that daily insurgent-generated violence, as measured by small-arms, mortar and improvised-explosive-device attacks, has decreased in Anbar since this time last year, Marine Maj. Gen. Walter E. Gaskin, commanding general of Multinational Force West, told Pentagon reporters during a satellite-carried news conference.

"I can report that the future of the province looks promising," said Gaskin, who has commanded MNF-West for about six months. But there remains "a lot of work left to do in al Anbar," he cautioned, noting al Qaeda in Iraq is still active in the province.
Still, trends show the surge of U.S. forces is having an effect on insurgent operations in Anbar, the general said, adding that he believes "we have turned the corner."

Gaskin said the province experienced 428 insurgent attacks during July 13-19, 2006. This year, from July 12-18, Anbar experienced just 98 extremist-mounted attacks, he said. Combined with other recent developments, the statistics demonstrate that the counter-insurgent strategy of clear, hold and build is working in Anbar province, Gaskin said.

Today, about 34,000 Iraqi soldiers and police in Anbar province work side by side with U.S. troops, Gaskin pointed out.

"We owe the lion's share of the progress we've experienced to the hard work, dedication and in some cases, bravery, of the Iraqi forces," Gaskin said, noting there are now Iraqi police in every major city of the province.
Gaskin said the combat-tested 1st Iraqi Army Division, "plans and operates independently in their own battle space," while the new 7th Iraqi Army Division is quickly progressing in capability.

"The Iraqi police, the Iraqi army and the coalition forces in Anbar stand together," Gaskin pointed out, as efforts continue to train and equip Iraqi soldiers and police to become self-sustaining.
The increase of U.S. troops in Anbar generated by the surge provides the capacity to go after al Qaeda insurgents, as Iraqi soldiers, police and militia push them out of the cities and into the province's hinterlands, the general explained.

Gaskin said surge forces have become a crucial part of the progress achieved in Anbar province, noting the additional troops have enabled his troops to maintain a persistent presence in an area north of Fallujah that has long been considered an enemy gathering point.

From that area, "there are multiple avenues of approach into the western belts of Baghdad," Gaskin observed.

The sailors and Marines of the 13th Expeditionary Unit have been blocking insurgent incursions from Anbar into Baghdad and its environs, Gaskin said, and they are denying the enemy the needed time and opportunity to plan attacks and to rest and refit.

Additionally, U.S. troops and Iraqi security forces in Anbar have been finding large weapons caches and car-bomb-making facilities on a daily basis, he said.

Gaskin said he's also buoyed by the fielding of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles into his area of operations. The armored vehicles feature V-shaped hulls that protect crews from underside blasts caused by armor-penetrating IEDs.

"We have about 200 of those MRAPs in al Anbar," Gaskin said, noting the vehicles are proving to be "real lifesavers." The addition of the MRAPs, he added, has enabled an increase of IED-clearance teams that patrol local streets and roads. The vehicles, he said, are being flown into Iraq straight from the factory to reduce fielding time. Gaskin anticipates that he'll have about 1,000 MRAPs by the end of this year.

And the recent development of Anbar's sheikhs turning against al Qaeda is more welcome news, Gaskin said, noting the province's tribal leaders are now encouraging their young men to join the Iraqi army and police, as well as forming government-vetted, anti-insurgent militias.

Most Sunni leaders in Anbar now view their boycott of the 2005 elections as a mistake, the general said, and they're now more amenable to working with the central government in Baghdad.

Gaskin said he sees more opportunity as well as challenges in the months ahead. Increased numbers of trained and vetted Iraqi security forces operating in Anbar, including additional police patrolling the province's major cities, free up more U.S. troops for mentoring duty with Iraqi military and police units.

Meanwhile, the building of logistics capability across the Iraqi security forces continues to be a challenging, but doable task, the general said.

At the same time, "we need to stay focused on combating the terrorist threat that remains very real and very dangerous," Gaskin pointed out. "But, we must begin by training both the Iraqi police and the Iraqi army in sustaining themselves with Iraqi systems and decreasing their reliance on coalition forces."

Pay problems experienced within Iraqi military and police forces are being addressed and fixed, the general noted. And the 7th Iraqi Army Division took control of its motor-transport regiment July 11, he said.

Training Iraq's military and police forces to enable them to equip and re-supply their forces "is the next crucial step" in their development, Gaskin said.

The "sons of Anbar" deserve credit for increasingly stepping up and taking responsibility for their security, and the improved performance and capabilities demonstrated by Iraqi soldiers and police serving in the province signify "an unprecedented achievement," Gaskin said.
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Global Tags:
, , , , , , , , ,

Maintain THE TENSION, visit the online store:
THE TENSION EXCHANGE

Shop Today's Deals at Amazon.com and Save!
Buy.com's Deal of the Day! A Different Product Every Day.

Labels:

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Dispatches from the Front: Operation Diablo Dragnet

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
A paratrooper, from 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, looks through his night vision goggles during Operation Diablo Dragnet in the Maywand District on the Helmand Kandahar province border June 29. Photographer: Spc. Matthew Littel, 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Operation Diablo Dragnet Links People to Government
07.18.2007
By Army Sgt. Tony J. Spain
22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- Paratroopers with 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, conducted air assault missions as part of Operation Diablo-Dragnet the end of June.

The operation involved three different units and the help of an Islamic Republic of Afghanistan official disrupting Taliban operations around the Maiwand District located on the Helmand and Kandahar province borders.

Mohammad Zarif, a member of the National Security Directorate for the Maiwand District, served as the eyes for the governor of Helmand province and reported directly to him about the situation in the area. His presence also helped international security assistance forces bring a familiar face to local Afghans.

“We prefer to have IRoA involvement in all of our operations, especially when we have such close and constant interaction with the local populace as we did during Operation Diablo Dragnet,” said Army Capt. Don L. Cantera, Company B, 1/508th PIR commander. “Fortunately, we had the assistance of the National Security Directorate to facilitate our search.”
Operations ran smoothly for the paratroopers as they moved through the small farming villages of De Kalakhan Kalay and Garm Abak Jonubi. Zarif led the way from building to building, knocking on doors declaring that the ISAF forces were there for their safety and not to be afraid.

“After the town was deemed ‘cleared’, several mini shuras were held with local elders,” said Army 1st Lt. Daniel Capello, fire support operator, Company C, 1/508th PIR. “They came with a look of uncertainty in their eyes, but after meeting with the professional paratroopers and Mohammad Zarif they left with smiles on their faces.”
Zarif helped explain to the elders the purpose of the paratroopers’ mission and explained as long as the Taliban was able to operate in the area they would not be safe.

“The new Afghan government and ISAF forces are here to support the Afghan people,” Zarif told them.
The local elders then began discussing issues that concerned them and what ISAF could do as a link between them and the government to bring resolution. Most of the villagers were concerned about security and the potential for development in their village, which lacks proper roads, schools and medical facilities.

“Zarif was a great help in communicating our intent to the people of Maku and in facilitating a security shura with the village elders,” said Cantera. “He was very knowledgeable about security in the Maiwand area and a direct link between the local populace, ISAF and IRoA.”
After the shura, local leaders promised ISAF they would elect a representative for the village to regularly meet with government officials in the district center.

“It’s pretty clear that the future of Afghanistan rests solely on the shoulders of the Afghans,” said Army 1st Lt. Adam Werhle, Co. C., 1/508th PIR. “We were initially skeptical of having the NSD representative with us on our operation, but he turned out to be a real asset almost immediately.”
Werhle noted the keys to success in Afghanistan will be getting government representatives out to meet the people, more Afghans involved in fighting the Taliban, and a well trained Afghan national army.
More Combat Camera Images on THE TENSION

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Global Tags:
, , , , , , , , ,

Maintain THE TENSION, visit the online store:
THE TENSION EXCHANGE

Shop Today's Deals at Amazon.com and Save!
Buy.com's Deal of the Day! A Different Product Every Day.

Labels: ,

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Iraqi Informants Lead U.S. Soldiers to Weapons, IED Caches

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
The contents of the three caches that were discovered north of Rushdi Mullah after an Iraqi informant led Soldiers of Company C, 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) out of Fort Drum, N.Y., to the cache sites July 18. Photographer: 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
1st Lt. Norm O'Neil, a platoon leader with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) out of Fort Drum, N.Y., sorts through the contents of three caches that were found north of Rushdi Mullah, Iraq, July 18. An Iraqi informant led coalition forces to the cache sites. Photographer: 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs

Iraqi Informants Lead U.S. Soldiers to Weapons, IED Caches
07.19.2007
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs


RUSHDI MULLAH, Iraq -- Iraqi informants led coalition forces to three massive caches north of Rushdi Mullah, Iraq, July 18.

Accompanying the informants were Soldiers of Company C, 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) out of Fort Drum, N.Y., who helped seize the caches just 20 miles south of Baghdad.

“Over the last several weeks, the number of Iraqis who have been sharing tips with us is astounding,” said Maj. Web Wright, a spokesperson for the 2nd BCT. “There has been a turning of the tides against al-Qaida in this area. The people are tired of them and are turning their backs on AQI.”

All three caches were found buried in 55-gallon drums within 100 meters of one another.

The contents of the caches included 13 rocket propelled grenades, 150 bags of Russian mortar propellant charges, two 57 mm mortar rockets, an armor-piercing rocket propelled grenade, four cylindrical explosive charges, two square explosive charges, two hand-launched star cluster flares, a Russian fragmentary hand grenade, 25 mortar propellant charges, 100 12.7 mm DiSHKA heavy machine gun rounds, 20 25 mm rounds, a 75-round Ak-47 ammunition drum, three sniper rifle scopes, two mortar sights, 10 cell phone chargers, five radios, a pressure plate, a machine gun lower receiver, two 7.62 mm machine gun barrels, two bottles of glucose, four vehicle cell phone chargers, an improvised explosive device command wire initiator, a hands-free telephone headset, an eight-battery holder, four cell phone batteries, a 4.8 voltage rechargeable battery, a seven-piece antenna, two flip-open cell phones, four Motorola talk-abouts, a cordless phone, a cordless phone base, a toy cell phone improvised explosive device (IED) initiator, two phone cords, an antenna extension, two keyless-entry devices with IED initiator switches, two magnets, two circuit boards and various nuts and bolts.

Radio and cell phone accessories are commonly used to detonate IEDs.

An explosive ordnance disposal team destroyed the ordnance.
More Combat Camera Images on THE TENSION

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Global Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Maintain THE TENSION, visit the online store:
THE TENSION EXCHANGE

Shop Today's Deals at Amazon.com and Save!
Buy.com's Deal of the Day! A Different Product Every Day.

Labels: ,

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Sparking Sectarian Strife, Civil Chaos: Al Qaeda's Iraq Mission

News in balance

News in Balance:

Here's news you probably won't see reported in the mainstream media: in Iraq, al Qaeda's mission has been to cause civil war and "create enough chaos and instability to bring down the country's central government."

Al Qaeda Key Disrupter in Iraq, Ambassador Says
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service


WASHINGTON, July 19, 2007 -- Al Qaeda bombings and other acts of violence conducted across Iraq are designed to incite sectarian strife and create enough chaos and instability to bring down the country's central government, the U.S. ambassador to Iraq told a panel of U.S. legislators here today.

"I have seen attacks from al Qaeda that have been aimed at virtually every community in Iraq," Ryan C. Crocker, who is now about four months into his tour as the top U.S. diplomat in Iraq, told members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Deadly al Qaeda-mounted attacks in Iraq have targeted Sunnis, Shiites, Arabs, Turkmen, and Kurds in an attempt to provoke ethnic or tribal retaliations, said Crocker, who spoke to the legislators via satellite from Baghdad.

The Feb. 22, 2006, bombing of the Shiite Golden Mosque in Samarra touched off sectarian violence across Iraq. Terrorism experts point to the Samarra bombing as a classic example taken out of al Qaeda's playbook. The terrorists returned June 13, 2007, to blow up the mosques' two minarets, or praying towers.

Fortunately, he said, al Qaeda "has had fairly limited success in re-igniting" large-scale sectarian violence as was experienced in the immediate aftermath of the first Samarra mosque bombing.

The terror group also targets coalition troops, as well as members of Iraq's military and police forces, which are important symbols of the Iraqi government, Crocker said.

Al Qaeda also has targeted a number of Baghdad's bridges and other civic infrastructure, Crocker said. In addition, al Qaeda is responsible for a recent suicide-vest attack on the Iraqi parliament, he said.

Yet, things are looking up, Crocker said, noting many Sunni tribes in Anbar province now are rejecting al Qaeda and cooperating with the Iraqi government.

Iraq's neighbors can play an important role in lessening al Qaeda's influence in the region, Crocker said, especially in regard to the situation where foreign fighters and ordnance are entering Iraq from Syria and Iran.

Recently initiated regional conferences are promising mechanisms where Iraq and its neighbors can discuss issues of mutual concern, Crocker noted. One such conference, on border security, is slated to be held in Damascus, Syria, in early August, he said.

"This is an opportunity to get all of Iraq's neighbors engaged" in discussions about regional security, Crocker said.

He added that al Qaeda has targeted Saudi Arabia and Egypt for regime change, in addition to its designs on Iraq.

"They have all suffered losses among their citizens from al Qaeda attacks, so they have common cause here, and they need to move forward in that way," Crocker said.

It's paramount, he said, for countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt to ensure their young men don't fall under al Qaeda's spell.

Therefore, continued regional talks are useful tools that will be employed as part of diplomatic efforts to diminish and eliminate al Qaeda's influence in the area, Crocker said.

In mid-September, Crocker and Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, are to present their assessment of the effectiveness of the troop surge and the overall situation in Iraq to President Bush, Congress, and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates.

Also today, Crocker and Petraeus held a secure video teleconference with 50 members of the U.S. House of Representatives and 40 U.S. senators during a White House-sponsored meeting at the Pentagon. The conference was held at the Pentagon, a defense official noted, because it possessed a large-enough facility to accommodate it.

Gates and Navy Adm. Edmund P. Giambastiani, the vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, greeted the members of Congress and welcomed them to the Pentagon on behalf of all the men and women in uniform. They then turned the event over to the White House.

Afterward, members of both houses of Congress came away with a good sense of Crocker's and Petraeus' opinions of the current situation in Iraq, the defense official said.
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Global Tags:
, , , , , , , , ,

Maintain THE TENSION, visit the online store:
THE TENSION EXCHANGE

Shop Today's Deals at Amazon.com and Save!
Buy.com's Deal of the Day! A Different Product Every Day.

Labels:

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Combat Camera: On Board USS Enterprise, 19 July 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 18, 2007) - Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Christopher Denker, of Portland, Ore., uses a Mode-4 control box to check the Identification, Friend or Foe system on an F/A-18F Super Hornet on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Airwing (CVW) 1 are currently underway on a scheduled six-month deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class N.C. Kaylor (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 18, 2007) - An aviation boatswain's mate directs an F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, aboard nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kiona M. Mckissack (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 18, 2007) - An F/A-18C, from the "Knighthawks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136, launches from the bow of nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) for a unit-level training mission. VFA-136 is part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 embarked aboard Enterprise on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of maritime operations and the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Peter Scheu (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 18, 2007) - An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, performs a catapult assisted launch from the flight deck of nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brandon Morris (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 18, 2007) - Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) Airman Christopher Blount, from Dallas, refuels an F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, aboard nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW 1) are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph R. Wax (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 17, 2007) - Commanding Officer Capt. Ron Horton speaks to Sailors during an E-4 and below captain's call in the hangar bay of nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Airwing One (CVW 1) are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class N.C. Kaylor (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 17, 2007) - Aviation Electrician's Mate 2nd Class Curtis Meyers and Aviation Electrician's Mate 2nd Class Carlos Ramos troubleshoot an Aircraft Engine Components Test Stand in the aircraft intermediate maintenance detachment shop on board nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW 1) are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class McKinley Cartwright (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 16, 2007) - Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Jonathan Shorley, of St. Louis, installs a piece of equipment to the tail of an SH-60F Seahawk, attached to the "Dragonslayers" of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (HS) 11, aboard nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW 1) are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brandon Morris (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 17, 2007) – Capt. O.P. Honors, executive officer aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65), and other participants await the arrival of the official party during a burial-at-sea ceremony aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW 1) are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Octavio N. Ortiz (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 17, 2007) - Command Master Chief Paul Declercq performs a ceremonial salute during a burial-at-sea ceremony on board nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW 1) are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Octavio N. Ortiz (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 16, 2007) - Sailors attached to the honor guard aboard nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65), practice a gun salute during a burial-at-sea rehearsal. Enterprise and embarked Carrier Airwing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Octavio N. Ortiz (RELEASED)

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 16, 2007) - The honor guard aboard nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) rehearses for a burial at sea. Enterprise and embarked Carrier Airwing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Octavio N. Ortiz (RELEASED)

Big E Conducts Burial at Sea Ceremony
7/19/2007
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jamica C. Johnson, USS Enterprise Public Affairs


USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) (Big E) Sailors and Marines held a burial at sea ceremony on the ship’s number four elevator July 17.

The ceremony was performed by Capt. O.P. Honors, the executive officer, with religious amenities given by Enterprise chaplains, Cmdr. Mark Logid, Lt. Cmdr. Alan Wilmot and Lt. Ulysses Ubalde.

The cremated remains of 15 veterans and three dependants were laid to rest as Enterprise continued its transit toward the Mediterranean.

The ceremony was especially momentous for one Enterprise Sailor, Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Theodore J. Marion, who laid his mother to rest during the ceremony.

“Before I came in the Navy it was one of my mother’s wishes to have her ashes spread out to sea. I talked to my father and he was happy that I followed my mothers' wishes,” said Marion.

The ceremony was held in traditional military burial standards, including a 21-gun salute, the passing of the Ensign and a detail of 30 Sailors.

All who volunteered were more than honored to be able to serve in such a prestigious observance.

“This was my first burial at sea; it was a great honor and a very solemn occasion. I treat it as a privilege to be involved,” said Lt. C.J. Kreier.

The families of those honored will be presented with a letter from the captain, a chart listing the latitude and longitude of where the remains were committed, and still photos and a DVD recording of the ceremony.
More Combat Camera Images on THE TENSION

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Global Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Maintain THE TENSION, visit the online store:
THE TENSION EXCHANGE

Shop Today's Deals at Amazon.com and Save!
Buy.com's Deal of the Day! A Different Product Every Day.

Labels:

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Combat Camera: Combined Patrol in Khamaliyah

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
Pfc. Sam Cochran leads a patrol. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, July 17, 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
Soldiers cautiously enter a house. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, July 17, 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
Pfc. Justin Oaks provides security as an Iraqi policeman searches for weapons in a house. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, July 17, 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
Pfc. Andrew Reinke (right) and Capt. Jermaine Hampton provide security for fellow Soldiers during the operation. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, July 17, 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
Capt. Jermaine Hampton gathers intelligence from a resident during the patrol. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, July 17, 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
Pfc. Andrew Reinke scans his sector for snipers. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, July 17, 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
Iraqi policeman speaks to a resident. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, July 17, 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
Pfc. Frank Jaccard listens to a local resident. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, July 17, 2007

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE
The mission has been a success. Photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, July 17, 2007

More Combat Camera Images on THE TENSION

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Global Tags:
, , , , , , , , ,

Maintain THE TENSION, visit the online store:
THE TENSION EXCHANGE

Shop Today's Deals at Amazon.com and Save!
Buy.com's Deal of the Day! A Different Product Every Day.

Labels:

AddThis Social Bookmark Button