Head of Joint Chiefs Says Apolitical Military Fundamental to Democracy

Focus on Defense:

CANBERRA, Australia, Feb. 23, 2008 (AFPS) -- The idea that the military is an apolitical organization is fundamental to democracy, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen told students at the Australian Defense College here yesterday.

During a question and answer session, one of the students asked the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff how he “manages the expectations of politicians.”

The chairman quickly told the students that it is not a process of managing expectations, but of education.

The basics of national security transcend party, he said. In December, Australia changed administrations. But the support for the military remained strong, he said, and the transition was seamless.

“I credit the military leadership with a significant part of that,” he said.

The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff’s job is to provide his “best military advice” to the president, defense secretary, National Security Council and Homeland Security Council.

Best military advice is not contingent on party, he said, and he, of course, will carry out the lawful orders of the president no matter what party he or she is from.

“Clearly one of my goals is to educate … anybody who is in a position of responsibility politically and provide my best advice to every one of them about from the military’s perspective and what we should be doing, where we should be investing, where we should be operating,” he said.

“Early engagement” with politicians is important, the chairman said. He does not want to first speak with a political leader when there is a crisis. “Sometimes that happens, just because there are a lot of crises,” he said.

Speaking constantly with political leaders builds trust and confidence, Mullen said.

“I would put it in terms of trying to create an understanding of the reality of the military and security environment that we are operating in, the capabilities that we bring, the relationships that we have and what is the best way to apply them to the challenges that we have,” he said.

(Story by Jim Garamone, American Forces Press Service.)

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Upgraded Hurricane Hunters Ready for Storm Season

WC-130J aircraft assigned to the 403rd Wing received the last of 10 radiometers Feb. 15 at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. The stepped-frequency microwave radiometer, or smurf, is a state-of-the-art instrument designed to continuously and accurately measure the winds at the ocean's surface directly below the aircraft. (Air Force photo.)

On the Home Front:

Smurfs up!

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss., Feb 23, 2008 (AFPN) -- When Hurricane Hunter crews from Keesler Air Force Base track severe storms in 2008 with their WC-130J Hercules aircraft, they will do so with the latest equipment received Feb. 15 that will collect data and provide weather warnings.

Members of Air Force Reserve Command's 403rd Wing took delivery of the last of 10 stepped-frequency microwave radiometers, known as "smurfs," that are state-of-the-art instruments designed to continuously and accurately measure the winds at the ocean's surface directly below an aircraft.

The technologically advanced WC-130J began to be upgraded last year with the smurf, enhancing the lifesaving storm data collection by the only operational weather reconnaissance squadron in the world. Airmen of the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron use WC-130Js to track hurricanes, tropical depressions and severe weather.

"The SFMR will be the biggest advance I can think of to improve hurricane intensity forecasts," said Max Mayfield, the National Hurricane Center former director.

As a plane flies through a storm, the SFMR senses microwave radiation naturally emitted from foam created on the sea by winds at the surface. Computers then determine wind speeds based on the levels of microwave radiation detected.

In the past, crews extrapolated wind speeds at the aircraft's altitude or from a dropsonde released from the aircraft.

The smurf directly measures the surface winds and is not confined to a single point like the dropsonde. This constant measurement of surface winds gives National Hurricane Center officials a more complete picture of the storm.

The smurf can also determine rainfall rates within a storm system. This, in addition to wind speeds at flight level, provides structural detail of the storm.

The Hurricane Hunters improve the accuracy of the National Hurricane Center's forecast by 30 percent, a number likely to rise with the use of the smurf.

(Story from Air Force Reserve Command News Service.)

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B-2 Bomber Crashes in Guam

On the Home Front:

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii, Feb. 23, 2008 -- An Air Force B-2 bomber crashed on Andersen Air Force Base in Guam Saturday morning local Guam time.

Two pilots from the 509th Bomb Wing were on board and ejected. They have been evaluated by medical authorities and are in good condition.

The B-2 was deployed to Andersen Air Force Base from Whiteman Air Force Base, MO.

Emergency responders are on scene. A board of officers will investigate the accident. More information will be released as soon as it becomes available.

NOTE: Guam is across the International Date Line. The accident occurred Friday evening EST.

(From a PACAF Public Affairs press release.)

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Army Tests Readiness, Redeployment Program

Selected units returning from Iraq and Afghanistan will undergo a Reset Pilot program that involves not only equipment, but also a focus on families as part of a holistic approach to unit readiness. Photo by National Guard

Focus on Defense:

Pentagon Launches Reset Pilot

WASHINGTON, Feb. 22, 2008 (ANS) -- The Army has launched a pilot test of the Reset model, an initiative designed to test the ability to accelerate reconstitution of the force, increase unit readiness, and improve preparation for deployment.

Army officials hope that with implementation of the Reset pilot, the service will better be able to systematically restore deployed units to an appropriate level of equipment, and better ready Soldiers and Families for future deployments and contingencies.

"Currently, we're out of balance," said Daniel Egbert, force management program manager for G/3 and lead integrator for the Reset pilot. "The Reset Pilot is a test program that will validate the process to systematically restore deployed units to a level of equipment, Soldier and Family readiness that prepares them to resume training for future missions."

Traditionally, the term Reset was used to describe equipment Reset. The Reset pilot will be more of a holistic Reset, according to Egbert, focusing on the needs of the unit, from individual Soldiers to family members.

The Reset pilot is an enabler to the "Grow the Army" initiative, said Egbert. As the Army grows the size of its force, he said, it can begin to phase into a more systematic, cyclical pattern that focuses on preparing units to respond to a range of possible contingencies. Reset pilot is a first step in creating a balance that restores that rotational capacity, said Egbert.

According to Egbert, the three phases of the Reset are well publicized. Phase one consists of tasks completed just prior to redeployment, with a focus on maintenance and property accountability, accessing battle damaged equipment and direct shipment of select items of equipment to the United States.

Phase two is a six month period - referred to as reconstitution - that allows for Soldier and Family re-integration. This period focuses on health assessments, briefings, and individual training, with a focus on providing Soldiers time to spend with their families.

In phase three Soldiers begin the collective training tasks and field training exercises that prepare them for upcoming deployments.

The difference, said Egbert, isn't in the process but in the focus on transitioning into a balanced rotation of one-year deployments to two-year dwell periods for active-component units and one-year deployments to four-year dwell periods for the reserve- component units as part of Army Force Generation.

The Reset Pilot involves eight active-component and five reserve-component redeploying units:

• 82nd Airborne Division headquarters
• 1st Brigade Combat Team of the 3rd Infantry Division
• 4th Brigade Combat Team of the 25th Infantry Division
• 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 82nd Airborne Division
• 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team
• 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade
• 43rd Area Support Group
• 864th Heavy Engineer Battalion
• 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (National Guard)
• 111th Engineer Brigade (National Guard)
• 478th Engineer Battalion (Army Reserve
• 325th Combat Support Hospital (Army Reserve)
• 396th Engineer Company (Army Reserve)

These units will test the new reset model in order to determine the institutional adjustments required to support implementation for the entire Army.

"The Army is using these units to identify how the Army as an institution has to adapt is processes and policies to implement this kind of a reset plan," said Egbert. "After testing this 15-month plan, we'll work toward progressing to an 18-month dwell, and eventually the full two-year dwell period."

Army commands, in conjunction with Department of the Army Headquarters, will monitor the Reset pilot to ensure required tasks are implemented to standard, Egbert said

"Army leadership is committed to restoring balance to preserve the all-volunteer force, restore necessary depth and breadth to Army capabilities, and build essential capacity for the future," said Egbert. "Standardizing reset processes is key to restoring balance in the Army and maintaining the quality of capabilities the Army provides the nation."

(Story by Lindy Dinklage, Army News Service.)

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Combat Camera: Checkpoint in Rusafa

U.S. Army soldiers assigned to 3rd Platoon, C Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, speak with Iraqi army soldiers at a checkpoint in Rusafa, Baghdad, Iraq, Jan. 27. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Jason Bailey, Joint Combat Camera Center.)

U.S. Army soldiers assigned to 3rd Platoon, C Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, speak with Iraqi army soldiers at a checkpoint in a market during a patrol in Rusafa, Baghdad, Iraq, Jan. 27. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Jason Bailey, Joint Combat Camera Center.)

An Iraqi army soldier sits in a truck used as a check point where U.S. Army soldiers assigned to 3rd Platoon, C Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, patrol in Rusafa, Baghdad, Iraq, Jan. 27. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Jason Bailey, Joint Combat Camera Center.)

U.S. Army soldiers assigned to 3rd Platoon, C Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, speak with Iraqi army soldiers at a checkpoint in a market during a patrol in Rusafa, Baghdad, Iraq, Jan. 27. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Jason Bailey, Joint Combat Camera Center.)

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Combat Camera: On Board USS Mustin; Feb. 22, 2008

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 21, 2008) Weapons department personnel launch an inactive torpedo off the port side of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89). The launch was part of a training exercise. Mustin is attached to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 and permanently forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek J. Hurder (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 19, 2008) Operations Specialist Seaman Michael Leek watches as Chief Master-at-Arm's Christopher Crane handcuffs Fire Controlman 1st Class Paul Rohlinger during a sentry training session on the foc'sle of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89). Members of the Mustin crew learned hand-to-hand combat, restraint and non-lethal weapons techniques during a sentry training course. Mustin is on a scheduled deployment with Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek J. Hurder (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 17, 2008) Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Jason Barcellos sprays soap on an SH-60B Seahawk helicopter attached to Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light (HSL) 51 on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89). Attached to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, Mustin is on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek J. Hurder (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 14, 2008) The five-inch gun system aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) fires at a practice target during a live-fire exercise. Mustin is deployed with Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek J. Hurder (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 13, 2008) Seaman Elizabeth Gomez shows Marine Cpl. Alexander Peterson how to man the helm from the bridge aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89). Peterson and other Marine Corps guests were invited to the bridge for a chance to experience the basics of ship handling. Mustin is deployed with Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek J. Hurder (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 12, 2008) The crew of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) test the ship's counter measure wash-down sprinkler system (CMWDS) on the foc'sle during a chemical biological and radiological (CBR) drill. The CMWDS uses seawater to remove toxic liquids and gases from exposed sections of the ship after a CBR attack. The Mustin is forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek J. Hurder (Released)

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Satellite Intercept Debrief: Teamwork, Training, Keys to Navy's Success

Focus on Defense:

PEARL HARBOR, Feb. 22, 2008 (NNS) -- Capt. Randall M. Hendrickson, commanding officer of USS Lake Erie (CG 70), credited "team effort" and training for the successful intercept of a nonfunctioning satellite Feb. 20. Lake Erie, an AEGIS warship fired a single modified tactical Standard Missile (SM) 3 to destroy the toxic satellite.

Lt. Cmdr. Andrew Bates, the ship's tactical action officer, fired the SM-3. Fire Controlman 2nd Class Andrew Jackson, missile system supervisor, built the manual firing sequence list that facilitated the launch and was the first watchstander to receive indications of mission success.

"Certainly, what the team in the Combat Information Center did was critical," said Hendrickson, "and that goes for every Sailor on Lake Erie.

"Without the engineers we would not get to station on time or have power; without our culinary specialists watch teams would not get fed in order to take the watch; without the navigation and deck Sailors doing their jobs we would not be a warship at sea. What every crew member did was critical," said Hendrickson.

Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Angel Marte ensured the crew was healthy and well-nourished throughout the mission. Marte said, "This crew is outstanding. Being on the Lake Erie isn't just a job or people you only see at work. We really are a family. Everyone, from the top on down, lives up to the saying, 'one team, one fight.'"

Information Technology Specialist 2nd Class Gennarro Hawkins facilitated critical communications between Lake Erie and various shore commands. Hawkins said, "Being on the Lake Erie is a great opportunity for training and expanding my rating knowledge ... at a fast pace."

Bates noted, "Training played a huge role in the success of the mission. This is a new environment with a different set of procedures and guidelines. If it had not been for the training involved we might not have been as successful as we were."

Bates added, "Being part of this mission has been a proud moment in my career."

When Lake Erie returned to Pearl Harbor today the ship was met by Adm. Robert F. Willard, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, and Rear Adm. Alan B. Hicks, program director, Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense.

Willard praised Hendrickson and his crew in a "bravo zulu" congratulatory message sent earlier to the ship.

"Congratulations on your superb performance," Willard wrote to Capt. Hendrickson and the crew. "This was a critically important mission with strategic implications."

"The hallmark of a trained professional fighting force is to make extraordinary events appear routine, which is exactly what you did," Willard added. "I could not be more proud of your collective efforts ... executed with precision and professionalism."

USS Lake Erie, part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, is committed to ensuring security and stability in the Pacific and contributing to homeland defense.

(Story from Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs.)

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Commander Optimistic About Security Gains in Iraq

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Feb. 22, 2008 (AFPS) -- Security contributions provided by surge-fortified U.S. forces and ongoing efforts by Iraqi soldiers, police and concerned local citizens’ groups have combined to produce stability, a senior U.S. officer posted in Iraq said today.

“The current security situation is stable, and I am optimistic about the future,” said Army Col. Tom James, commander of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, a component of the Fort Stewart, Ga.-based 3rd Infantry Division. The Iraq veteran and his unit deployed to Iraq in December.

A component of Multinational Division Center, James’ 3,000-member brigade is based at Forward Operating Base Kalsu, located near the town of Iskandariyah, about 25 miles south of Baghdad. Also known as Task Force Marne, James’ brigade also is responsible for security operations in Najaf, Karbala and Hillah.

The 4th BCT’s area of responsibility is about the size of Switzerland and contains more than 620,000 Iraqi inhabitants. James’ area encompasses north Babil province and stretches from the Euphrates River Valley in the west to the Tigris River Valley in the east.

The U.S. soldiers work with Iraqi forces “to secure the population, interdict accelerants moving towards Baghdad, defeat extremists and neutralize resistance groups, primarily focused on defeating sectarian violence, and build capacity of the Iraqi security forces, government institutions and economic programs,” James explained.

James’ unit also is working to transfer security and local development tasks to Iraqi forces and local governments, he said.

Violence is down across his area of responsibility, James said. “Sunni extremists are severely disrupted; they no longer find sanctuary and support from the (Iraqi) population,” he noted.

James attributed the improved security situation to the effects of the surge, improved Iraqi security force capabilities, and the contributions of the Sons of Iraq and other concerned local citizens’ groups.

“The five-brigade surge gave coalition forces the resources required to concentrate combat power in extremist-dominated areas, that allowed us to occupy key terrain in these areas to avoid enemy re-occupation,” James explained. Today, U.S. forces and Iraqi soldiers and police work together to expand upon those security gains and to keep the peace, he added.

The perceptible increase in security has boosted Iraqis’ confidence in the future, the colonel added, noting Iraqi citizens are providing more and more information about extremist operations.

“When the people know that coalition and Iraqi security forces are living with them, they feel more comfortable providing information on extremist activity and they feel more secure in their neighborhoods and homes,” James noted.

In addition, the performance of Iraqi soldiers and police “has improved significantly,” James said. “The difference between their capacity during my last deployment and now is truly amazing.”

Also, Iraqi citizens are tired of being terrorized by extremists and have stepped up to secure their neighborhoods, James pointed out.

“The Sons of Iraq program employs local Iraqis to secure their neighborhoods under the supervision of local tribal leaders and overwatch by Iraqi security forces,” James explained. “We use these static security positions to thicken our security lines in areas where we cannot fully commit coalition or Iraqi security forces.”

Almost 8,000 Sons of Iraq members, including Shiites and Sunnis man 552 security checkpoints within James’ area, the colonel said.

(Story by Gerry J. Gilmore, American Forces Press Service.)

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U.S. Urges ‘Swift Conclusion’ to Turkish Operations in Iraq

Turkish tanks move near the Iraqi border, Feb. 21, 2008
News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Feb. 22, 2008 (AFPS) -- The United States has urged Turkey to bring to a “swift conclusion” any ongoing military operations in Iraq, a Pentagon spokesman said today.

Bryan Whitman told reporters the United States also urged Turkey “to limit their operations to precise targeting of the PKK.” Whitman said the U.S. maintains its position that the PKK, a militant Kurdish nationalist group that operates in northern Iraq and Turkey, is a terrorist organization and an enemy of Turkey.

Whitman declined to comment on whether the United States provided intelligence ahead of a Turkish incursion into northern Iraq reported today, but spoke generally of the strategic U.S.-Turkey relationship.

“Turkey is a NATO ally. We have a long-standing, intelligence-sharing relationship with Turkey,” he said. “It was intensified recently with respect to the PKK terrorist group.”

Whitman said the U.S. respects Turkey’s need to protect its population and urges that Turkish officials work directly with Iraqis in dealing with the PKK, which he called “a common enemy.” Further, he said, the United States encourages “a long-term agreement that will enhance the stability and security of that border region.”

“We believe the long-term solution is one of diplomacy, and not a military solution,” he added.

(Story by John J. KruzelAmerican Forces Press Service.)

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Troops in Iraq Kill Six Terrorists, Detain Six Suspects

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Feb. 22, 2008 (AFPS) -- Coalition forces killed six terrorists and detained six suspected terrorists yesterday and today during operations to disrupt al Qaeda operating in central and northern Iraq, military officials reported.

During an operation east of Khan Bani Sad today, coalition forces targeted an alleged al Qaeda in Iraq associate involved in the suicide-bombing and improvised-explosive-device network that runs from Baqouba to Baghdad and north to Mosul. Reports indicate the suspect is associated with Abu Karrar, the al Qaeda leader also involved in the suicide-bombing network, who was killed during a coalition forces operation Feb. 17.

As the ground force arrived in the area, the troops were engaged by enemy fire from what appeared to be an underground bunker. A fixed-wing aircraft was called to engage the threat, killing three terrorists. A supporting helicopter engaged two more enemy personnel outside the building, killing both. As the ground force continued to clear the area, troops called for occupants of one of the target buildings to come out. One individual refused to comply and moved toward two weapons in the building. Coalition forces engaged and killed the terrorist. The ground force also detained two suspected terrorists and destroyed a vehicle that contained a weapons cache.

Also today, coalition forces detained one suspected terrorist during an operation in Baghdad while targeting associates of an al Qaeda in Iraq network involved in facilitating materials, vehicles and suicide bombers to terrorist groups throughout Baghdad.

During an operation in Mosul yesterday, coalition forces detained three suspected terrorists while targeting an alleged associate of a senior-level foreign-terrorist facilitator responsible for attacks against Iraqi and coalition forces in the region.

“Iraqi and coalition forces continue to disrupt al Qaeda in Iraq’s networks across the country,” said Army Maj. Winfield Danielson, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. “The indiscriminate violence wreaked by al Qaeda’s suicide bombers and explosive attacks only strengthens our resolve to find the terrorists and bring them to justice.”

Eight Iraqi civilians and one Iraqi army soldier were wounded yesterday in Arab Jabour during an attack by al Qaeda in Iraq operatives. All nine of the wounded, including four women and three children, were evacuated to a nearby joint combat outpost and then by helicopter to Logistics Support Area Anaconda near Balad for treatment.

Initial reports indicate the al Qaeda operatives seized a home in the village, took the residents hostage and destroyed the home with an explosive device. Al Qaeda then engaged local citizens and Iraqi army soldiers with small-arms fire as they attempted to help the residents of the home.

The Iraqi army had recently cleared al Qaeda in Iraq from Arab Jabour and established a “Sons of Iraq” citizen security group there to maintain security, said Army Maj. Mike Garcia, a spokesman for the 2nd Infantry Division’s 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team. "Al Qaeda's hold on the population continues to grow weaker every day,” he said. “And this is the latest example of their desperate and brutal efforts to seek retribution against Iraqis who attempt to keep (al Qaeda in Iraq) out of their towns and villages.”

In other Iraq news, Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers detained the commander of an Iranian-trained and -funded “special group” during an operation in Baghdad's Shaab neighborhood Feb. 20. The detainee is suspected of involvement in multiple murders and other criminal activities.

Paratroopers with 82nd Airborne Division’s 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, detained the suspect after a tip on his whereabouts. The suspect is a known special groups leader and financier believed to receive funding from Iran that was earmarked to support the Diyala criminal network, said Army Maj. Cameron Weathers, the 2nd BCT intelligence officer. The money typically is used to pay and equip special groups criminals, procure vehicles and support criminal activities against innocent Iraqis.

In Iraq operations Feb. 19:

• Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers captured a suspected special groups criminal cell leader in the Rashid district of the Iraqi capital. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to Task Force Dragon, noticed a man fitting the description of a suspected cell leader during a routine patrol of Abu Tshir and detained him without incident. Officials believe the alleged cell leader had taken over day-to-day direction of the criminal cell after its previous leader was arrested by coalition forces in the same area.

• Iraqi army and Multinational Division Center soldiers discovered a significant weapons cache north of Lutifiyah. Members of 1st Battalion, 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, and 4th Platoon, Battery B, 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, found a mass of weapons and homemade explosives after a local citizen provided the tip and led the soldiers to the site. The cache contained various improvised explosive device-making materials, multiple explosive rounds, firearms and documentation.

• Acting on information provided by a Sons of Iraq group, soldiers assigned to Troop C, 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, confiscated a weapons cache in a small village southeast of Baghdad on Feb. 19. The cache contained 21 122 mm Russian projectiles and three 130 mm Russian projectiles. The munitions were buried about 3 feet deep in a suspect's backyard. The suspect was detained and taken to Combat Outpost Cashe for questioning.

(From Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)

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UPDATE: Air Force Releases Name of Pilot Killed in F-15 Crash

On the Home Front:

THIS IS AN UPDATE OF AN EARLIER STORY

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., Feb. 22, 2008 (AFPN) -- Air Force officials here Feb. 22 have released the name of the F-15 Eagle pilot who died due to injuries sustained to an aircraft accident Feb. 20.

1st Lt. Ali Jivanjee of the 58th Fighter Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base died in the crash of two F-15s over the Gulf of Mexico.

The name of the second pilot involved in the accident is not being released at this time due to the ongoing investigation. He was released from the Eglin AFB hospital Feb. 21 and was in good condition.

An Interim Safety Board has convened at the 33rd FW to begin investigating the accident. Both F-15s were assigned to the 58th FS, a unit of the 33rd FW.

Col. Todd Harmer, the 33rd FW commander, temporarily suspended flying operations following the crash. The members of the 33rd FW are scheduled to return to normal flying operations Feb. 25.

(From an Air Force press release.)

An earlier story is below.

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., Feb. 21, 2008 (AFPN) -- An Eglin Air Force Base pilot involved in a Feb. 20 crash of two F-15 Eagles over the Gulf of Mexico has died.

The other Eglin AFB F-15 pilot is listed in good condition at the base hospital.

At approximately 5 p.m., Coast Guard crews located and rescued the 58th Fighter Squadron pilots after they were reported missing over the Gulf of Mexico at approximately 2 p.m.

The names of the two pilots are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

A board of officers will investigate the accident. Additional details will be provided as soon as they become available.

"The 33rd Fighter Wing and Team Eglin have suffered a great loss today and my heart goes out to the family and friends of our fallen Airman," said Col. Todd Harmer, the 33rd FW commander. "We will continue to do everything we can to assist our families and Airmen at this tragic time."

(From an Air Force press release.)

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U.S. Troops, Iraqi National Police Conduct Joint Operation

Members of the Iraqi Civil Conservation Force remove trash from the streets of Tameem, a small village southeast of Baghdad, Feb. 18, 2008. They worked with soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division’s Troop C, 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, as well as with a Sons of Iraq citizen security group and policemen assigned to 3rd Brigade, 1st National Police Division, to help remove trash and set up Sons of Iraq checkpoints in the village. U.S. Army photo.

Members of the 3rd Brigade, 1st National Police Division, help unload materials for Sons of Iraq checkpoints in Tameem, a small village southeast of Baghdad, Feb. 18, 2008. Policemen worked with soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division’s Troop C, 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, as well as with a Sons of Iraq citizen security group and the Iraqi Civil Conservation Force to help set up checkpoints and conduct area beautification projects. U.S. Army photo.

Dispatches from the Front:

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq, Feb. 22, 2008 -- Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division’s Troop C, 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, conducted an operation with Iraqi National Police officers Feb. 18, supporting the Iraqi Civil Conservation Force and the “Sons of Iraq” citizen security group in Tameem, a small village southeast of Baghdad.

Salam Bedin, the local council chairman; Lt. Col. Emad, commander of 3rd Brigade, 1st National Police Division; and Sons of Iraq planned the operation, which led to the establishment of several checkpoints and allowed the Iraqi Civil Conservation Force to conduct cleaning projects in the village.

"The future of Iraq is about cooperation between all players working toward a common goal," said Army Capt. Darrell Melton, Troop C commander. "Today, the (local) leaders, the national police, the Sons of Iraq, the Iraqi Civil Conservation Force, and coalition forces were all working together to make the operation a success."

Soldiers from Troop C brought materials to assist in constructing the checkpoints. The Iraqi National Police brigade provided security, while the Iraqi Civil Conservation Force removed trash that had accumulated in the town's canals and streets.

Troop C leaders believe the project will help pave the way for continued economic prosperity in the village.

"The work being done today will provide for the next generation of Iraqis," said Army 1st Lt. Jeffery Ritter, government lines of operation officer for Headquarters Troop, 3-1 Cavalry Regiment.

(Story by Army Spc. Ben Hutto, 3rd Infantry Division’s 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, Multinational Division Center Public Affairs Office.)

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U.S. Commends Iraq's al-Sadr for Ceasefire Extension

News in Balance:

A major development in Iraq...

BAGHDAD, Iraq, Feb. 22, 2008 -- Major news outlets are reporting Iraqi cleric Muqtada al-Sadr announced Friday that he has extended a cease-fire order to his Shiite Mahdi Army by another six months.

U.S. officials said the decision would help foster reconciliation among Iraq's divided communities.

In a statement, the U.S. military said it was ready for dialogue with Sadr's movement but warned his followers against violating the ceasefire.

The Multi-National Force - Iraq joins the Government of Iraq in welcoming al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr's has pledged to extend the cease-fire. This extension of his August 2007 pledge of honor to halt attacks is an important commitment that can broadly contribute to further improvements in security for all Iraqi citizens. It will also foster a better opportunity for national reconciliation and allow the Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces to focus more intensively on Al-Qaeda terrorists.

Those who continue to honor al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr's pledge will be treated with respect and restraint. Those who dishonor the Sadr pledge are regrettably tarnishing both the name and the honor of the movement. Iraqi and Coalition forces will continue to work closely with the Iraqi people to protect them from these criminals who violate the law and dishonor the commitment made by al-Sayyid Muqtada. We also welcome an opportunity to participate in dialogue with the Sadr Trend and all groups who seek to bring about reconciliation in building the new Iraq.

The cease-fire is "an important commitment that can broadly contribute to further improvements in security for all Iraqi citizens," said a U.S. military statement delivered by Navy Cmdr. Scott Rye.

"It will also foster a better opportunity for national reconciliation and allow the coalition and Iraqi security forces to focus more intensively on al Qaeda terrorists," the statement said, referring to the predominantly Sunni militant group al Qaeda in Iraq.

(Compiled from a Multi-National Force - Iraq press release and mainstream media sources.)

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Combat Camera: Operation Chaos Thrasher in Aswad, Iraq

Capt. Shaun Reass, platoon leader, and Staff Sgt. William Houdeshell, squad leader of 3rd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, discuss movement into the village of Aswad, Iraq, Feb. 19 during Operation Chaos Thrasher. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Cpl. Keith Raymond, infantryman in Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division from Fort Lewis, Wash., prepares to reenter a building after clearing its rooftop Feb. 19 in Aswad, Iraq. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

A soldier in Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division from Fort Lewis, Wash., talks with Iraqi children in Aswad, Iraq, Feb. 19 during Operation Chaos Thrasher. The operation was designed to not only clear the village of any remaining al-Qaida in Iraq, but to also build rapport with local populace. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Capt. Shaun Reass, platoon leader of 3rd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division talks with a Son of Iraq in Aswad, Iraq, Feb. 19. SOLs (formerly Concerned Local Citizens) guard the entrances to the town to keep al-Qaida in Iraq from entering. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Spc. Kyle Wagner and Sgt. 1st Class Keneti Pauulu of 3rd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment from Fort Lewis, Wash., pull security during Operation Chaos Thrasher Feb. 19 in Aswad, Iraq. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Spc. Kyle Wagner, medic in 3rd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment from Fort Lewis, Wash., pulls security Feb. 19 during Operation Chaos Thrasher in Aswad, Iraq. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Staff Sgt. William Houdeshell, squad leader in 3rd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment from Fort Lewis, Wash., inspects a vehicle for weapons Feb. 19 in Aswad, Iraq. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Cpl. Keith Raymond, infantryman in Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division from Fort Lewis, Wash., and Iraqi policemen search a palm grove for weapon caches Feb. 19 in Aswad, Iraq, during Operation Chaos Thrasher. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Pfc. Toby Obrien and other soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment patrol Aswad, Iraq, with Iraqi policemen Feb. 19 during Operation Chaos Thrasher. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry and Iraqi policemen search a field for weapon caches Feb. 19 in Aswad, Iraq, during Operation Chaos Thrasher. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Pfc. Toby Obrien navigates over a wall as Cpl. Keith Raymond watches Feb. 19 in Aswad, Iraq. The 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment soldiers worked side-by-side with Iraqi policemen to clear the town and surrounding areas of enemy insurgents. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

Staff Sgt. William Houdeshell, squad leader in 3rd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division from Fort Lewis, Wash., looks down a road using his weapon sight Feb. 19 during Operation Chaos Thrasher in Aswad, Iraq. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Russell Bassett, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.)

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