Friday, August 24, 2007

Combat Camera: On Board USS Kitty Hawk, 24 Aug 2007

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - An SH-60 Seahawk, from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 14, releases flares at part of an air power demonstration above USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). The demonstration was not only a showing of the capabilities of the aircraft from Carrier Air Wing 5, but was also intended to entertain those aboard. USS Kitty Hawk is in her third month of deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph R. Schmitt (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, fires off its flares while performing evasive maneuvers during an air power demonstration above USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). Kitty Hawk is three months into her summer deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jimmy C. Pan (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) -USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), USS Cowpens (CG 63), USS Mustin (DDG 89), USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), and USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) transit the Pacific while preparing for an air power demonstration. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kyle D. Gahlau (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing 5 fly over USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), USS Cowpens (CG 63), USS Mustin (DDG 89), USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), and USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) for the finale of an air power demonstration in the Pacific. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kyle D. Gahlau (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) transits behind USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) during an air power demonstration in the Pacific. Sailors aboard Kitty Hawk, USS Cowpens (CG 63), USS Mustin (DDG 89), USS Curtis Wilbur, and USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) were able to view the air power demonstration, which included numerous flight maneuvers and a flyby. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kyle D. Gahlau (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing 5 fly over USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), USS Cowpens (CG 63), USS Mustin (DDG 89), USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), and USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) for the finale of an air power demonstration. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Stephen W. Rowe (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), USS Cowpens (CG 63), USS Mustin (DDG 89), and USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) transit the Pacific while preparing for an air power demonstration. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Stephen W. Rowe (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - An F/A-18F Super Hornet, from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, performs flight maneuvers over USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) during an air power demonstration. Kitty Hawk is three months into her summer deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Stephen W. Rowe (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - Water vapor flows over the wings of an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, as it performs a high-speed pass during an air power demonstration above USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). Kitty Hawk is three months into her summer deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jimmy C. Pan (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - Two E-2C Hawkeyes, assigned to Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 115, perform a flyby during an air power demonstration above USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). Kitty Hawk is three months into her summer deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jimmy C. Pan (RELEASED)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 23, 2007) - An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, fires off its flares while performing evasive maneuvers during an air power demonstration above USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). Kitty Hawk is three months into her summer deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jimmy C. Pan (RELEASED)

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Iraq Briefing With Maj. Gen. Lynch, 24 Aug 2007

MG Rick Lynch, Commander of the Multi-National Division-Center, speaks with reporters at the Pentagon via satellite to provide an update on ongoing security operations in Iraq.
Java Link: Iraq Briefing 24 August 2007
Popup Links:
Briefing Part 1, Briefing Part 2, Interview.

News in Balance

Maj. Gen. Lynch briefed the Pentagon Press Corps Friday about the threat of rocket attacks from Iranian born weapons, post-combat operations, support from Iraqi citizens and upcoming operations. He then answered questions from the media.

Of the press event, The Associated Press, CNN, The Washington Post, and other news outlets cherry-picked interview responses and headlined the general's statement that it's not possible to withdraw troops from his region south and east of Baghdad by year's end as Sen. John Warner called for Thursday.

In an attempt to "create" a sensational story by conflicting Warner's and Lynch's remarks, the resulting press reports mischaracterize and downplay many of the general's important points.

Full transcript: DoD News Briefing with Maj. Gen. Lynch from the Pentagon, Arlington, Va.

Iraqi Citizens Commit to Stop Violence, Help Security Forces
By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA


WASHINGTON, Aug. 24, 2007 (AFPS) -- As the U.S. troop surge has taken effect in areas of Iraq, Iraqi citizens are shifting away from extremist groups and stepping forward to assist coalition and Iraqi security forces and secure their communities, a U.S. commander in Iraq said today.

The increase in troops allows the coalition to move into areas that previously had no coalition or Iraqi security force presence and get rid of extremist elements, Army Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, commander of Multinational Division Center, told reporters at the Pentagon via videoconference. As soon as locals see that the security forces are committed to staying and securing a neighborhood, they readily step forward to help, Lynch said.

"Over the last four months, we've seen an interesting shift," he said. "Iraqi citizens are coming to us and providing information. These citizens are speaking up about what they've seen; they're talking about what they've heard and about any activity that jeopardizes the rebuilding of their country."
Lynch also talked about the "concerned citizens" program, which involves about 10,000 Iraqis assisting security forces by manning checkpoints and providing intelligence information. The dedication of these citizens allows local governments to work on reconciliation, which will give the central government in Baghdad a strong foundation to work from for national reconciliation, he said.

"With our help, the Iraqis are starting to realize that they can establish order and accountability in their lives," Lynch said.
Lynch's forces took responsibility for the Multinational Division Center area, which includes the southern edge of Baghdad and stretches from the border of Saudi Arabia to the border of Iran, in April. Since then, attacks in the area are down by 26 percent and civilian casualties have decreased by 36 percent, Lynch said. Since June 15, coalition forces in the area have killed or captured 16 high-value individuals and in the past four months have captured or killed about 1,000 insurgents, he added.

"We're buying time and space for the Iraqi people to come together and determine their future," Lynch said of his unit's efforts. "It's reconciliation from the ground up, by helping the Iraqis see that they have something worth fighting for and protecting. Some days are better than others, but we continue to make progress."
Despite progress in his area, Lynch voiced concern about Iranian influence he sees in insurgent groups. U.S. soldiers are coming under attack from weapons originating from Iran, specifically rockets and components of explosively formed projectiles, a deadly type of roadside bomb, he said. Also, he said, U.S. officials believe some Shiia militants are being trained by Iranian elements and passing that training on to others inside Iraq. In addition, members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps are facilitating training and transfer of weapons and munitions in Iraq, he said.

Sunni militants also are getting Iranian technology, though it's not clear if that's through the black market or other means, Lynch said. Coalition forces are looking closely at weapons they recover, studying such things as tool marks and the source of explosives to determine their origin, he said. Forces in Multinational Division Center have captured more than 117 Iranian-made munitions since April, he said.

The coalition is working with Iraqi security forces to bolster security at the Iranian border and prevent these Iranian-made weapons from reaching Iraq, Lynch said. In the near future, 2,000 Republic of Georgia soldiers will help secure six checkpoints along the border, thoroughly inspecting every truck crossing along the main westbound routes toward Baghdad, he said.

The enemies of Iraq have suffered many losses in the past few months, but they will not go away anytime soon, Lynch said. Coalition forces fully expect them to launch more spectacular attacks and will continue pursuing them to prevent that from happening, he said. As Iraqi citizens show more courage and determination to stop violence, the coalition will have a better chance of success, he said.

"They're showing a will to continue to make ... a safe future a reality," he said of the Iraqis. "If we have faith in them, they'll have faith in us and their future."
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Pentagon: NIE Cites Measured Progress in Iraq

News in balance

News in Balance:

Much is being made in the mainstream media about the National Intelligence Estimate on Iraq. It seems a different conclusion is reached with every new story on the report.

Below is the Pentagon's position on the report.

Transcript: National Intelligence Estimate – August 2007

Report Cites Measured Progress in Iraq
By Fred W. Baker III


WASHINGTON, Aug. 24, 2007 (AFPS) -- The latest National Intelligence Estimate update released yesterday reports a drop in violent attacks and measured progress in Iraq and suggests that, with continued robust counterinsurgency operations and mentoring by coalition forces, Iraqi security forces will continue to improve.

“While the February NIE concluded that conditions in Iraq were worsening, today's key judgments clearly show that the military's counterinsurgency strategy, fully operational since mid-summer, has begun to slow the rapidly increasing violence and patterns of that violence we have been seeing in Iraq. This change is a necessary precondition to the stability and increased political reconciliation that we all seek,” Deputy White House Press Secretary Gordon Johndroe said yesterday.

The report also concludes, however, that the overall level of violence remains high and points out that sectarian division remains and political progress is stalled. The latest intelligence estimate focused on only the past six months and primarily the central provinces of the country.

The report indicates a rough road ahead for Iraq’s political leaders, stating that compromises required for sustained security, long-term political progress and economic development are unlikely to emerge without a fundamental shift in the factors driving political and security developments.

Still, President Bush remains supportive of current Iraqi leaders.

“The administration continues to support the efforts of Prime Minister (Nouri al-)Maliki, the presidency council, and Iraqi political leaders representing Sunni, Shiia, and Kurds as they meet in Baghdad now to reach agreement on how they will work together for a more stable and secure Iraq,” Johndroe said.

The report recognized the latest trend in Sunni neighborhoods to join with coalition and Iraqi security forces to drive out al Qaeda in Iraq. “These trends, combined with the increased coalition operations, have eroded (al Qaeda in Iraq’s) operational presence and capabilities in some areas,” the report states.

It said “bottom-up” security initiatives are the region’s best prospect for improved security in the next year, but added that the efforts need to be accepted and supported by Iraqi’s government.

The report also stated that Iraqi security forces are improving and “performing adequately,” but they are not yet ready for independent operations and are reliant on the coalition’s logistics and combat support.

“This is all accurate and not unexpected, given where (Iraqi forces are in their) development. This suggests, of course, that there's more work to be done, but that this effort is headed in the right direction,” Johndroe said.

The report gave high marks to Iraqi units that have been able to deploy throughout the region in support of Operation Fardh al-Qanoon and highlighted recent large-scale Iraqi operations involving the country’s army and police force demonstrating improved capacity for operational command and control. Fardh al-Qanoon is an Iraqi phrase that means “enforcing the law.”

It also acknowledged the government’s plan to expand its security forces, but said that it would probably take the next year or longer to see any gain.

Iranian assistance to Iraqi Shiia militants has exacerbated violence within the country, according to the report. It predicts continued support with funding, weapons and training. The report also found that Syria has been attempting to infiltrate fighters into Iraq in an effort to increase Syrian influence. Both are concerned about a Sunni reemergence in Iraq and consider it a threat to their own country’s stability.

Citing the reports findings, “the use of (explosively formed penetrators) supplied by Iran has risen dramatically, and it is taking an increasing toll on our troops,” the deputy press secretary said.

White House officials point to the decrease in violence as a sign that the surge is working. The report stated that coalition forces, working with Iraqi forces, tribal elements and some Sunni insurgents have reduced al Qaeda in Iraq's capabilities, restricted its freedom of movement, and denied its grassroots support in some areas. It also, however, reported that al Qaeda in Iraq retains the ability to conduct high-profile attacks.

“We have changed al Qaeda's trajectory in a short period of time, and we must now sustain the momentum we have already achieved against them,” Johndroe said.
Related media sources: The Associated Press, CNN, The Washington Post, The New York Times.

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Pentagon Identifies 14 Soldiers Killed in Blackhawk Crash

Dispatches from the Front


Dispatches from the Front:

UPDATE 3:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of 14 soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Aug. 22 in Multaka, Iraq, of injuries suffered when their helicopter crashed.

Killed were the following soldiers assigned to the 4th Squadron, 6th U.S. Air Cavalry Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.:

  • Capt. Corry P. Tyler, 29, of Georgia.
  • Chief Warrant Officer Paul J. Flynn, 28, of Whitsett, N.C.
  • Sgt. Matthew L. Tallman, 30, of Groveland, Calif.
  • Spc. Rickey L. Bell, 21, of Caruthersville, Mo.
Also killed were the following soldiers assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii:
  • Capt. Derek A. Dobogai, 26, of Fond du Lac, Wis.
  • Staff Sgt. Jason L. Paton, 25, of Poway, Calif.
  • Sgt. Garrett I. McLead, 23, of Rockport, Texas.
  • Cpl. Jeremy P. Bouffard, 21, of Middlefield, Mass.
  • Cpl. Phillip J. Brodnick, 25, of New Lenox, Ill.
  • Cpl. Joshua S. Harmon, 20, of Mentor, Ohio.
  • Cpl. Nathan C. Hubbard, 21, of Clovis, Calif.
  • Spc. Michael A. Hook, 25, of Altoona, Penn.
  • Spc. Jessy G. Pollard, 22, of Springfield, Mo.
  • Spc. Tyler R. Seideman, 20, of Lincoln, Ark.
The cause of the incident is still under investigation.

Update: 14 Task Force Lightning Soldiers die in helicopter downing
August 23, 2007
Multinational Division-North PAO


TIKRIT, Iraq -- Fourteen Task Force Lightning Soldiers died when the aircraft they were flying went down in Kirkuk province, killing all passengers and crew on board, Aug. 22.

Two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters were conducting night operations when one of the aircraft went down shortly after extracting the Soldiers from a combat mission. On board were four Fort Lewis, Wash.-based aircrew members and 10 Schofield Barracks, Hawaii-based passengers.

“There is no doubt this is a tragic event, not only for Task Force Lightning, but also for the families and fellow Soldiers in the Schofield and Fort Lewis communities,” said Maj. Gen. Benjamin Mixon, commander of Task Force Lightning and the 25th Infantry Division. ”I extend my sincere condolences to those deeply affected by the loss of these warriors.”
The incident occurred shortly after takeoff, after completing the ground portion of a night operation.

Initial reports and on-scene observations indicate mechanical failure led to the downing.

“Our prayers go out to the families and loved ones of these American heroes,” said Mixon. “These losses reinforce our resolve in this war and strengthen our commitment of service to our Nation.”
Additional news sources: CNN, AP.

ORIGINAL POST:

The Associated Press, CNN, The Washington Post and others report a Black Hawk helicopter went down Wednesday in northern Iraq, killing all 14 U.S. soldiers aboard, the military said, the deadliest crash since January 2005.

According to the military statement, two helicopters were conducting a night operation when one went down. The aircraft had been carrying four crewmembers and 10 passengers from Task Force Lightning, an American operation whose area of command includes the cities of Tikrit, Kirkuk, Samarra and Mosul.

The military said initial indications showed the UH-60 helicopter experienced a mechanical problem and was not brought down by hostile fire, but the cause of the crash was still under investigation.

Helicopter downed, results in 14 non-battle deaths
August 22, 2007


TIKRIT, Iraq (MND-N PAO) -- Fourteen Task Force Lightning Soldiers died when the aircraft they were riding went down in northern Iraq Wednesday.

Two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters were on a night operation when one of the aircraft crashed. That helicopter had been carrying four crewmembers and 10 passengers.

Initial indications are that the aircraft experienced a mechanical malfunction. There were no indications of hostile fire.

The cause of the incident is under investigation.

Names of the deceased are being withheld pending next of kin notification and release by the Department of Defense.
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Thursday, August 23, 2007

Combat Camera: Tanks 'Punish' Enemy in Al Anbar

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U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. James A. Robson, a 120mm M1A1 Abrams tank main-gun loader with Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, watches the sun rise in the western Euphrates River valley as his tank sits in an over-watch position. The company has been providing support for 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 2, since the start of their deployment in March. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ryan C. Heiser

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A tank with Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, supporting Task Force Highlander, Regimental Combat Team 2, sweeps through the Iraqi desert in the Al Anbar province in support of Operation Punisher III. The operation was part of the ongoing regimental-wide Operation Mawtini, which is aimed at countering an insurgent surge of activity in the Al Anbar Province, as well as disrupting the flow of weapons and other illegal items toward the urban areas. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ryan C. Heiser

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Tanks with Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, supporting Task Force Highlander, Regimental Combat Team 2, speed across the Iraqi desert in the Al Anbar province. The tanks spent nearly a week combing the Iraqi desert in support of Operation Punisher III. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ryan C. Heiser

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Master Sgt. Jerri A. Schlickenmayer, the tank leader for Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, supporting Task Force Highlander, Regimental Combat Team 2, leads a group of Marines to search a Bedouin (nomad) tent in the Al Anbar province. The tanks spent nearly a week combing the Iraqi desert in support of Operation Punisher III. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ryan C. Heiser

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The sun sets in the western Euphrates River valley as a tank sits in an over watch position. Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, has been providing support for 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 2, since the start of their deployment in March. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ryan C. Heiser
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Officials: NIS Shows U.S. Strategy Improving Security in Iraq

News in balance

News in Balance:

Much is being made in the mainstream media about the National Intelligence Estimate on Iraq. It seems a different conclusion is reached with every new story on the report.

Below is the White House position on the report.

Transcript: National Intelligence Estimate – August 2007

Intelligence Estimate Shows U.S. Strategy Improved Security in Iraq

WASHINGTON, Aug. 23, 2007 (AFPS) -- The latest National Intelligence Estimate indicates the U.S. strategy has improved the security environment in Iraq, but notes that many tough challenges lie ahead, according to a statement released today by White House Deputy Press Secretary Gordon Johndroe.

The White House statement follows:

“While the February NIE concluded that conditions in Iraq were worsening, today's key judgments clearly show that the military's counterinsurgency strategy, fully operational since mid-summer, has begun to slow the rapidly increasing violence and patterns of that violence we have been seeing in Iraq. This change is a necessary precondition to the stability and increased political reconciliation that we all seek.

“The administration continues to support the efforts of Prime Minister Maliki, the presidency council, and Iraqi political leaders representing Sunni, Shia, and Kurds as they meet in Baghdad now to reach agreement on how they will work together for a more stable and secure Iraq.

“The judgments in the NIE confirm that Iraq's security forces are improving their performance and that bottom-up political engagement and security initiatives have made a difference and offer the best prospect for improved security over the next six to 12 months. The NIE does conclude that the Iraqi security forces have not improved enough to conduct major operations independent of the coalition on a sustained basis in multiple locations, and that the ISF remain reliant on the coalition for important aspects of logistics and combat support.

“This is all accurate and not unexpected, given where ISF is in its development. This suggests, of course, that there's more work to be done, but that this effort is headed in the right direction.

“The intelligence community also concluded that al Qaeda in Iraq remains resilient. The NIE states that, "coalition forces, working with Iraqi forces, tribal elements and some Sunni insurgents have reduced al Qaeda in Iraq's capabilities, restricted its freedom of movement, and denied its grassroots support in some areas. However, AQI retains the ability to conduct high-profile attacks." We have changed al Qaeda's trajectory in a short period of time, and we must now sustain the momentum we have already achieved against them."

“Today's key judgments also confirm that Iran and Syria are still supporting and arming militant groups inside Iraq. The NIE states, and I quote, ‘Iran has been intensifying aspects of its lethal support for select groups of Iraqi Shia militants, particular the JAM.’ Most troublesome, the use of EFPs supplied by Iran has risen dramatically, and it is taking an increasing toll on our troops. While Syria has taken some action, it has done so because of the threat to its own stability, and has begun to support non-al Qaeda in Iraq groups to increase its influence inside Iraq.

“One element of the administration's strategy is to support Iraqi efforts to convince its neighbors to be more helpful, and also to mobilize the international community to better support security in Iraq and the region.

“The full National Intelligence Estimate will inform the recommendations to be made by President Bush, as well as the recommendations to be made by General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker when they return to Washington in September to testify before Congress and make the report to the American people. And we look forward to hearing from them.”
Related media sources: The Associated Press, CNN, The Washington Post, The New York Times.

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Ten Suspected Terrorists Nabbed, One Killed in Iraq

Dispatches from the Front

Dispatches from the Front:

One Terrorist Killed, 10 Detained During Iraq Operations

WASHINGTON, Aug. 23, 2007 (AFPS) -- Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 10 suspected terrorists today during operations around Iraq targeting al Qaeda weapons and leadership networks.

During an operation north of Baqubah, coalition forces captured an alleged al Qaeda cell leader and two other suspected terrorists.

Intelligence reports indicate the cell leader was a terrorist weapons facilitator and had been watching a coalition forces base, possibly to plan an attack. During the operation, the ground forces observed a man maneuvering around them and passing information about the assault force to additional enemy elements. Coalition forces engaged and killed the man.

Today in Bayji, forces captured two targeted individuals and detained two other suspected terrorists during coordinated raids. One of the suspects is an alleged safe house operator and meeting coordinator for senior leaders of al Qaeda. Another suspect is believed to be second in command to the al Qaeda emir of Bayji, who is linked to several attacks against coalition forces.

In Mosul, coalition forces conducted a precision raid looking for an al Qaeda improvised-explosive-device facilitator, who is believed to receive, store and assemble IEDs at his home. The ground forces detained one suspected terrorist. Coalition forces also detained one suspected terrorist during a raid on a farm complex north of Muqdadiyah targeting members of an al Qaeda anti-aircraft cell.

"Our operations continue to target terrorist leaders and their resources," said Army Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "We are on the offensive to keep al Qaeda from making headline-grabbing attacks against the Iraqi people."
In other operations this week:

  • Iraqi army scouts with U.S. Special Forces advisors conducted a helicopter assault in western Iraq yesterday, resulting in the elimination of a suspected weapons cache and the destruction of an insurgent safe house. While clearing the targeted building, the assault team noticed that the floor in the main room of the structure had recently been dug up and fresh concrete covered the floor, with wire leading out of the house. Further investigation revealed the presence of a command-detonation wire, and the area was immediately evacuated. Close-air support destroyed the target, and multiple secondary explosions indicated the presence of munitions. Intelligence sources reported that the former safe house was being occupied by foreign and Iraqi-born al Qaeda members. It was also a suspected storage location for weapons caches and believed to be the point of origin for launching mortars at the Iraqi police station in Karmah.

  • Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers conducted two raids at a pair of abandoned homes containing IED-making materials in the western Khadra neighborhood yesterday. A tip from residents led soldiers to a house containing 60 pounds of fertilizer and 200 feet of detonation cord. As the soldiers continued searching the area, they found a second abandoned cache site containing 50 pounds of homemade explosive materials and three gallons of nitric acid. An explosive ordnance disposal team detonated the explosives and other bomb-making materials.

  • Soldiers from 4th Iraqi Army Division with U.S. Special Forces advisors on Aug. 20 detained a man suspected of money laundering in Bayji. The suspected terrorist is believed to be responsible for smuggling money in exchange for weapons, explosives and men, which the al Qaeda terrorist network then uses for attacks against innocent civilians and coalition forces. Ledgers, a large sum of Iraqi and U.S. money, money counting machines, a 9 mm pistol and various types of ammunition were confiscated for further analysis.

  • Iraqi security forces with U.S. Special Forces advisors detained a high-level terrorist during an operation in Mosul on Aug. 20. Intelligence indicates the targeted individual was believed to be in charge of security for a Mosul-based organization established as a front for al Qaeda, using kidnapping and executions to enforce his security actions. He also reportedly interrogated kidnapping victims for extortion and executed them. One other suspicious individual was detained during the operation. The forces also seized a variety of military equipment and documents at the targeted residence.

(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)

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Combat Camera: Stennis Departs Pearl Bound for San Diego

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (Aug. 22, 2007) - Sailors honor the USS Arizona Memorial as the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) departs for San Diego. Stennis is hosting a Tiger Cruise during the ship's transit across the Pacific. “Tigers’ are service member's family and friends who are invited to get underway with the ship. Stennis returned to the United States after a 7.5-month-long deployment to promote peace, regional cooperation and stability while supporting the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul J. Perkins (RELEASED)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (Aug. 22, 2007) - Capt. Sterling Gilliam, commander of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, joins Sailors, family members and friends in honoring the USS Arizona Memorial as Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) departs for San Diego. During the transit across the Pacific Ocean, Stennis is hosting a Tiger Cruise. Tigers are service member's family and friends who are invited to get underway with the ship. Stennis, as part of the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group, returned to the United States after a 7.5-month long deployment promoting peace, regional cooperation and stability and supporting the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jon Hyde (RELEASED)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (Aug. 22, 2007) - Damage Controlman 3rd Class Felicity Prestianni, right, from engineering department's damage control division, helps a young “Tiger” try on a firefighting helmet that is part of a fire fighting ensemble worn by Sailors. Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) departed for San Diego and is hosting a Tiger Cruise during the transit across the Pacific Ocean. Tigers are service member's family and friends who are invited to get underway with the ship. Stennis returned to the United States after a 7.5-month-long deployment to promote peace, regional cooperation and stability while supporting the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman John Wagner (RELEASED)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (Aug. 22, 2007) - Damage Controlman 3rd Class Felicity Prestianni, right, from engineering department's damage control division, shows "Tigers" the safety equipment used aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Stennis departed for San Diego and is hosting a Tiger Cruise during the transit across the Pacific Ocean. Tigers are service member's family and friends who are invited to get underway with the ship. Stennis returned to the United States after a 7.5-month-long deployment to promote peace, regional cooperation and stability while supporting the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman John Wagner (RELEASED)

Stennis Kicks Off First Leg of Tiger Cruise
22 Aug 2007
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Davis Anderson, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs


USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At sea -- USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) departed Pearl Harbor, Hawaii Aug. 22 with over 1,000 family and friends for the ship’s Tiger Cruise and subsequent return to homeport.

Stennis and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 arrived to Pearl Harbor Jan. 20. The following day, 1,149 Tiger Cruise participants checked aboard Stennis for the carrier’s transit to San Diego and Bremerton, Wash.

While on board, Tigers will participate in activities that give family members and friends an up-close look at what Sailors do when underway and deployed.

Cmdr. Scott Robertson, Stennis’ Auxiliaries Officer and the schedule-of-events coordinator for Tiger Cruise, said Stennis and CVW-9 Sailors will offer an air show at sea, a close-in weapons system live fire exercise and a mock replenishment-at-sea alongside USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10).

In addition to these activities, Tigers will tour work centers aboard the ship, such as the jet shop, medical ward, dental clinic and combat direction center.
“We have a whole slew of static displays,” said Robertson. “These will showcase various types of equipment used for firefighting, crash and salvage and aviation electronics. There’s a lot to see.”

For Sailors and Marines bringing Tigers aboard Stennis, this will be an exciting trip.

“It’s a good feeling,” said Operations Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Johnathan Salazar from embarked CVW-9. “I haven’t seen my family in a long time; it’s almost been a year. It’s good to see them and show them what you do every day.”
The Tigers aboard Stennis are also excited about the cruise. Some of them have been planning for this since Stennis’ deployment began back in January.

“It’s just unbelievable how large it [Stennis] is,” said Richard Zuber, father of Electronics Technician 3rd Class (SW/AW) Libby Zuber, assigned to combat systems department. “It’s just really impressive to see it from above and then to come on board the ship, you can’t imagine what it’s like when it’s sitting on the water. You can’t imagine it being able to float the way it does.”

Zuber, a former member of the Air Force, noted some of the differences between shipboard life and his time in the military.

“We did our job and went home,” said Zuber. “I can’t imagine being out to sea for seven months,” said Zuber.

Zuber added he wished he joined the Navy because of the port visits the Navy offers.

“I just think that would be awesome to have those experiences,” said Zuber.
While deployed, the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group supported Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, maritime operations, coalition operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, Expeditionary Strike Force training and most recently exercise Valiant Shield 2007 in the Pacific. Stennis and CVW-9 departed San Diego Jan. 20.

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Update: 14 Non-Battle Deaths in Iraq Blackhawk Crash

Dispatches from the Front

Dispatches from the Front:

For an update of this post, including a casualty list of 14 soldiers involved, click here.

Update: 14 Task Force Lightning Soldiers die in helicopter downing
August 23, 2007
Multinational Division-North PAO


TIKRIT, Iraq -- Fourteen Task Force Lightning Soldiers died when the aircraft they were flying went down in Kirkuk province, killing all passengers and crew on board, Aug. 22.

Two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters were conducting night operations when one of the aircraft went down shortly after extracting the Soldiers from a combat mission. On board were four Fort Lewis, Wash.-based aircrew members and 10 Schofield Barracks, Hawaii-based passengers.

“There is no doubt this is a tragic event, not only for Task Force Lightning, but also for the families and fellow Soldiers in the Schofield and Fort Lewis communities,” said Maj. Gen. Benjamin Mixon, commander of Task Force Lightning and the 25th Infantry Division. ”I extend my sincere condolences to those deeply affected by the loss of these warriors.”
The incident occurred shortly after takeoff, after completing the ground portion of a night operation.

Initial reports and on-scene observations indicate mechanical failure led to the downing.

“Our prayers go out to the families and loved ones of these American heroes,” said Mixon. “These losses reinforce our resolve in this war and strengthen our commitment of service to our Nation.”
Additional news sources: CNN, AP.

ORIGINAL POST:

The Associated Press, CNN, The Washington Post and others report a Black Hawk helicopter went down Wednesday in northern Iraq, killing all 14 U.S. soldiers aboard, the military said, the deadliest crash since January 2005.

According to the military statement, two helicopters were conducting a night operation when one went down. The aircraft had been carrying four crewmembers and 10 passengers from Task Force Lightning, an American operation whose area of command includes the cities of Tikrit, Kirkuk, Samarra and Mosul.

The military said initial indications showed the UH-60 helicopter experienced a mechanical problem and was not brought down by hostile fire, but the cause of the crash was still under investigation.

Helicopter downed, results in 14 non-battle deaths
August 22, 2007


TIKRIT, Iraq (MND-N PAO) -- Fourteen Task Force Lightning Soldiers died when the aircraft they were riding went down in northern Iraq Wednesday.

Two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters were on a night operation when one of the aircraft crashed. That helicopter had been carrying four crewmembers and 10 passengers.

Initial indications are that the aircraft experienced a mechanical malfunction. There were no indications of hostile fire.

The cause of the incident is under investigation.

Names of the deceased are being withheld pending next of kin notification and release by the Department of Defense.
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