Saturday, May 24, 2008

Combat Camera: USS George Washington Continues to San Diego Following Onboard Fire

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Fire Team Leader, Machinery Repairman 2nd Class William Neault, guides his team into Hangar Bay 3 aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73). The comprehensive firefighting effort extinguished all fires while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries for the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Delano (Released)

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Sailor dons a Proximity Suit in order to assist in the rescue efforts located in a fuel pump room aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73). The comprehensive firefighting effort extinguished all fires while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries for the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Dennis Herring (Released)

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Sailors work to put out a fire from a position in Hangar Bay 3 aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73). The comprehensive firefighting effort extinguished all fires while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries for the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Peter Blair (Released)

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Commander, Carrier Strike Group Eight, Rear Adm. Philip Hart Cullom speaks with Electrician's Mate Seaman Jase Exum who is recovering after having been trapped in a fuel pump room during a shipboard fire, aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73). The comprehensive firefighting effort extinguished all fires while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries for the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Dennis Herring (Released)

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Command Master Chief Jeffrey R. Clark Sr. addresses the assembled crew in the hangar bay of USS George Washington (CVN 73). Enlisted Sailors, regardless of rank, worked together to remove debris from the main decks. The clean-up evaluation commenced this morning following yesterday's fire. The comprehensive firefighting effort extinguished all fires while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries for the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy Photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Katrin Albritton (Released)

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Crew members aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) conduct comprehensive firefighting efforts to extinguish a fire that spread to several spaces via cableways, creating extreme heat and smoke. The crew was able to contain the fire while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries to the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy photo (Released)

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Crew members aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) conduct comprehensive firefighting efforts to extinguish a fire that spread to several spaces via cableways, creating extreme heat and smoke. The crew was able to contain the fire while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries to the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy photo (Released)

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Crew members aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) conduct comprehensive firefighting efforts to extinguish a fire that spread to several spaces via cableways, creating extreme heat and smoke. The crew was able to contain the fire while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries to the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy photo (Released)

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Crew members aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) conduct comprehensive firefighting efforts to extinguish a fire that spread to several spaces via cableways, creating extreme heat and smoke. The crew was able to contain the fire while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries to the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy photo (Released)

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PACIFIC (May 22, 2008) Crew members aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) conduct comprehensive firefighting efforts to extinguish a fire that spread to several spaces via cableways, creating extreme heat and smoke. The crew was able to contain the fire while limiting shipboard damage and preventing any serious injuries to the crew. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are currently under investigation as the ship continues on course for San Diego. U.S. Navy photo (Released)

Related Articles:
USS George Washington Continues to San Diego Following Onboard Fire
USS George Washington Fire Investigation Complete, Senior Leadership Relieved

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'Chaos' Soldiers Takeoff in Blackhawks, Land in History

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Soldiers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Multi-National Division - Baghdad, return to a Blackhawk helicopter on May 14 after a successful air-assault mission aimed to disrupt criminals' ability to smuggle weapons into Baghdad. (Photographer: 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs.)

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Capt. George "Rick" Oliver of Newport, R.I., stands guard in the early morning May 14 as helicopters arrive to pick up soldiers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Multi-National Division - Baghdad. (Photographer: 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs.)

Dispatches from the Front:

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq, May 24, 2008 -- The American soldier has always held the reputation of arriving at the cutting edge of the battlefield by land, sea and air. And now, residents of east Baghdad can attest to this, dozens of Company C, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment soldiers descended from Blackhawk helicopters on May 14 for a mission aimed to disrupt the enemy’s ability to smuggle weapons into Baghdad.

It was a proud moment for the soldiers of “Chaos” Company.

“It is an honor to participate in this mission,” said Sgt. Michael Hensen, a Jacksonville, Fla., native. “We have trained for this moment the last three years, and I had complete confidence that our Company would accomplish the mission.”

Conducting the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division’s first air-assault mission in Iraq was no easy chore. The planning and preparation lasted several days and included detailed rehearsals and back briefs.

“Rehearsals are the key to success,” said 1st Sgt. Brian Disque of Philadelphia. “In an air-assault mission, you must always expect and be prepared for contingencies.”

After the planning and rehearsing were complete, it was time to execute the mission. In the early morning hours, soldiers of Chaos Company moved to the landing zone and waited to hear the familiar sounds of the UH-60 Blackhawk. soldiers practiced loading and unloading the helicopter several times.

“On a helicopter landing zone, time is everything,” explained Capt. George “Rick” Oliver of Newport, R.I. “We need to exit as quickly as possible for the safety of the aircraft – as well as our own.”

It was a short flight to the objective. As the Blackhawks zipped over the quiet Baghdad streets, soldiers of Company C were about to descend onto their objective.

“It felt like I was in a movie the whole time I was in the helicopter,” described Pfc. Jason Largent, an Elko, Nev., native, who has been in the Army for approximately six months. “I remember thinking that if you asked me a little more than a year ago, I would have never guessed I’d be doing anything like this.”

Just as planned, the soldiers of Chaos Company landed on a large field and quickly downloaded from the aircraft. Like ants marching on the ground, the soldiers began to move their separate ways to accomplish team missions. Some squads were charged with securing an outer perimeter while others were given the mission to enter and clear key buildings.

The soldiers’ hard work in planning and rehearsing showed through their actions on the objective.

“Our soldiers did great,” said Sgt. Jimmy Torries of Franklinville, N.Y. “They did everything they were supposed to do. Thanks to their hard work, we were able to accomplish all our objectives.”

After securing their objective and conducting a thorough search, Capt Adam Cecil, from Chesapeake, Ohio, who is the commander of Co. C, said he was confident criminals would be reluctant to use the area to smuggle weapons.

“We demonstrated a capability to the enemy that shows them we can drop in anytime, anywhere,” said Cecil. “There is no area that is safe for them.”

As the first company in the “Patriot Brigade” to conduct an air assault in Iraq, the men of Company C are proud of their contributions to the war.

“This is a mission I will remember for the rest of my life,” said Sgt. Matthew Kunkle, from San Antonio. “I’m just proud to have been able to share it with my brothers.”

(Story from a 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs press release.)

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Friday, May 23, 2008

Arlington ‘Flags In’ Tribute Begins Memorial Day Commemoration

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Servicemembers place 265,000 miniature flags at every grave at Arlington National Cemetery during Flags In. The Flags In tradition dates back to 1948 and begins the annual Memorial Day tribute. (U.S. Army photo/Adam Skoczylas)

Face of Defense:

WASHINGTON, May 23, 2008 -- More than 3,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines officially kicked off the Memorial Day commemoration last evening as they placed 265,000 miniature flags at every grave at Arlington National Cemetery.

The tradition, known as “Flags In,” dates back to 1948, when soldiers of 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard,” began the annual Memorial Day tribute.

This year marked the fifth year company-size elements of sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen joined about 3,000 soldiers in placing a U.S. flag at the base of the gravestone and columbarium niche of every single servicemember buried or inurned at Arlington.

Yesterday afternoon, the troops fanned out across the cemetery’s hills and valleys, carrying rucksacks bulging with bundles of flags. They approached each headstone, centering a miniature flag exactly one boot length from the base before sinking it into the rain-softened ground.

“It’s hard to put all this into words,” said Army Sgt. Maj. Russell McCray, The Old Guard’s top noncommissioned officer. “We’re here every day honoring our fallen heroes, and everyone buried here is a hero. But being here for this is something particularly special.

“It’s an honor for everyone who is part of this. If you look at their faces, you can see that,” McCray continued. “This experience out here will humble you, beyond a doubt.”

Even Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Andres Yanez, who regularly supervises funeral details at the cemetery, called it an honor to participate in the Flags In tribute.

“We come here every day, but today is special for us,” he said. “When I look out there and see all those flags, I know that I’ve been a part of it. I’m rendering honors to our fallen, and I hope that someday someone renders those same honors to me.”

Almost five hours after emplacing his first flag of the day -- and admitting he “couldn’t count” how many more he’d positioned -- Navy Seaman Shawn Palaszewski still hadn’t lost his enthusiasm for the mission.

“We’re here rending honors to all our fallen shipmates, and showing them that we care,” said Palaszewski, a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard member just 10 weeks out of boot camp. “These sailors and all our armed forces [members] have fallen for our freedoms, and we’re here to pay tribute to that.”

“This is such a privilege and an honor for me,” said Army Sgt. Mary Jackson, of The Old Guard’s Headquarters and Headquarters Regiment. “These people gave the ultimate sacrifice. I can only imagine doing that for my country.”

Positioned at the columbarium, Marine Sgt. David Gray from Marine Barracks Washington directed his troops as they moved among the rows of niches. After returning from a deployment to Iraq, Gray called his first time participating in the Flags In tribute particularly meaningful.

“It’s a privilege to be alive and able to support those Marines who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country,” he said. “We can’t bring them back. The only thing we can do is honor them and pay tribute to them.”

Like Gray, Army Staff Sgt. John Diggles, platoon sergeant for The Old Guard’s H Company, said he considers the mission a special calling.

“Friends of mine are here, quite a few, so this is very personal,” Diggles said, looking out over the rows of headstones. “This is a way of showing the remembrance of our fallen soldiers on such a special day.”

As she looked out at the sea of flags fluttering in the wind, Army Sgt. 1st Class Jennifer Bailey from The Old Guard’s Fife and Drum Corps declared the landscape nothing short of “breathtaking.”

“The impact is huge. It’s very dramatic,” said Bailey, who was participating in the Flags In ceremony for the sixth year. “It’s uniform, and it’s simple. And I think it’s the uniformity and the simplicity that makes this so beautiful and so unique.”

(Story by Donna Miles, American Forces Press Service.)

Related: Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day

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Combat Camera: On Patrol in Iraq With a Family Man

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Sgt. Dennis K. Derr II, Section A leader, Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team-1, and his section of Marines are deployed well away from their higher command near the city of Fallujah. The tight-knit group makes daily patrols through Amariyah, Ferris Town and surrounding areas, working with Iraqi police and Provincial Security Forces to halt terrorist activity. (U.S. Marine Corps photo/Cpl. Chris Lyttle)

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Sgt. Dennis K. Derr II (left), Section A leader, Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team-1, dismounts his vehicle to begin a night patrol May 13. Derr and his section of Marines are deployed well away from their higher command near the city of Fallujah. The tight-knit group makes patrols through Amariyah, Ferris Town and surrounding areas, working with Iraqi Police and Provincial Security Forces to halt terrorist activity. (U.S. Marine Corps photo/Cpl. Chris Lyttle)

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Iraqi police inform Sgt. Dennis K. Derr II (right) and 1st Lt. Luke R. Barnes, patrol leaders of Section A, Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team-1, of a possible improvised explosive device on the roadway outside of Ferris Town May 13. (U.S. Marine Corps photo/Cpl. Chris Lyttle)

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Sgt. Dennis K. Derr II (left), Section A leader, Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team-1, stops during a night patrol to have a cup of chai tea with the locals May 13. "A lot of times you'll find Iraqis are very hospitable," Derr said. "They always want to give you something to eat, something to smoke and something to drink. Instead of me disrespecting them by pushing on, I said I'd stay and have one quick glass with them. It keeps a good relationship between each other. I respect them, they respect me. It makes our life a lot easier around here. " (U.S. Marine Corps photo/Cpl. Chris Lyttle)

Dispatches from the Front:

A Day in the Life of Sgt. Derr

AL ANBAR PROVINCE, Iraq, May 23, 2008 -- Sgt. Dennis K. Derr II stands in front of a stainless steel-faced electric coffee brewer in the briefing room with a bitter look on his face.

As he stirs the cup with his desirable amount of cream and sugar, three coffee bags of three different brands from three far-away countries lay open on the table. Marines coming in and out throughout the course of the day probably mixed together various flavors in the same brewer at separate times by accident.

“Is it too much to ask to stick to just one kind of coffee,” Derr ranted out loud. He picks up a more familiar brand to him, one with no special flavor or roast, from under the table and he scans the label. “This is all you need, right here. People should just stick with this and stop brewing up all this stuff I can’t even pronounce.”

Exotic brands of coffee brew that were probably sent from the United States in care packages are of little interest to Derr. He is more of the simplistic type who is satisfied with having the basic necessities to live off of in a combat zone- that and your average cup of coffee he says shouldn’t be too much to ask.

During a deployment in an isolated area of the desert where resources are limited, Marines can come to appreciate little things like a good cup of coffee to get them through their days. Derr, a section leader with Section A, Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team-1, said the forward operating base they’ve been assigned to is a lot better than his previous ones because they have showers, a Marine to cook for them twice daily, a few weights to exercise and a few computers to send emails back home. In contrast to the tiny luxuries they have, the sections spend most of their time outside the wire on the road or on foot in an area of operation larger than they’ve ever had.

Located well away from their higher command that operates primarily in Fallujah, Derr and his section of Marines conduct patrols in Amariyah, Ferris Town and a small thumb-shaped piece of terrain that seems like it takes forever to reach when travelling in a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle that amplifies every single bump in the road. The company stays far away from Fallujah to put them closer to Iraqi communities they visit multiple times on a daily basis.

“Life out here isn’t too bad,” Derr said. “As you can see we’re right here in the mix with all of the locals. Pretty much every time we leave, we’re conducting a mounted, dismounted (or both) security patrol. We link up with the (Iraqi police) and the (provincial security forces) and do combined patrols with them to put the Iraqi security presence with the Iraqi people and show them that the IPs are taking the lead. We’re pretty much supporting them as much as we can.”

Night Patrols, Chai Tea and Barking Dogs

Streetlights were the only source of illumination during the section night patrol. Upon dismounting their vehicles, the Marines found a parked four-door sedan with four Iraqi males claiming they were headed to the hospital in Ferris Town. It’s unusual for anyone to be out on the streets at this time of night.

Derr approached the individuals on the sidewalk. Three IPs were already on the scene. Through questioning the men, he found one of them spoke more English than what he intended to reveal. While Derr checked identifications, his Marines began to search the vehicle and one of the men began coughing uncontrollably, perhaps to illustrate his need for medical treatment.

“Badge, badge,” Derr requested from the men. As they pulled out their IDs, the man continued to cough. Derr looked at the man, puzzled whether the uncomfortable hacking was truly that bad or a little over the top. “You alright, man?” Derr asked.

“I am go to the hospital,” one man intervened.

“What hospital,” Derr asked. The man pointed up the street up began to respond with more broken phrases.

“You speak English,” Derr declared. The man pinched his fingers together and said, “a few”.

“No, no … you speak more than a few. Don’t lie to me,” he said, which evoked a little laughter from everyone.

It seemed the men were doing no wrong that evening, only sitting in a strange place at a strange hour. In situations like this, Derr and his Marines may have to accept a story like ‘my friend is sick’ for what it’s worth. The suspicious vibe faded after the car was searched clean. The coughing man then proceeded to light a cigarette. “Ah, don’t do that, tell him that’s killing him,” Derr joked to the men.

After the brief encounter, the men were free to go. As the sedan drove off, Derr watched them the entire way down the street to confirm their destination was to the hospital.

“Hey team leaders, while we’re moving through here, turn your radios down a little bit and utilize noise discipline,” Derr radioed to his Marines as they began their patrol away from the streetlights into the darkness.

The section passed around the local cemetery through pitch dark. The only sounds came from rumbling generators of nearly every house. The only things louder than the generator rumbles were the stray dogs, torrents of barks came from every dark alley and open field. Commonly, once one dog starts, every dog in the neighborhood has to join in.

“Well if it weren’t for the dogs, nobody would know we were here,” Derr whispered.

About a kilometer off in the distance, a bright orange light shines over Ferris Town. Derr and his Marines routed their patrol through an alley where several men and children were congregated, some conversing and some playing dominoes. There were blankets bunched up in the middle of the pavement that Derr noticed. He radioed his Marines to stop so he could check badges.

Derr didn’t take any chances with the out-of-place blankets, telling the men in the alley to clear them out of the way.

The men removed the blankets from the street and presented their badges. To assure they were harmless, they invited Derr and his Marines to have a cup of chai tea just for passing through. As strange as it would seem to sit down in a dark alley with a group or strangers to have tea, Derr said it was better to accept than be rude.

“A lot of times you’ll find Iraqis are very hospitable,” Derr said. “They always want to give you something to eat, something to smoke and something to drink. Instead of me disrespecting them by pushing on, I said I’d stay and have one quick glass with them. It keeps a good relationship between each other. I respect them, they respect me. It makes our life a lot easier around here.”

Even without a language interpreter, Marines and Iraqis often seem to develop entertaining interactions with each other all of the time. They’ll often look for commonalities they share, such as how much they both like chai, how many babies they have or significant others in their lives. They’ll joke around and wheel-and-deal with each other, ‘How much for a T-shirt’ or ‘I’ll give you this much for your flashlight,’ although both sides probably recognize the value of a dollar (or dinar for that matter) the same way.

After a glass of chai, a couple of laughs and kicking the soccer ball back and forth a few times with the little boys, Derr and his Marines determined the people were just enjoying their freedom to hang out in the open air at night.

“It’s a lot hotter now and it’s getting close to summer,” Derr said. “The locals spend a lot of time outside in the evening as opposed to being inside because it’s a little cooler for them. These guys did have their setup in the road. I just made them move it off to the side so they don’t get hit by any vehicles. It’s just your regular locals out here playing dominoes.”

Derr said no one’s badges were expired and there was no reason to remain suspicious of anything in the alley. Before they wore out their welcome, Derr and his Marines said goodbye and continued their patrol into the night.

Derr, His Marines and Operation Iraqi Freedom

Derr, the 26-year-old from Pennsylvania, originally joined the Air Force in 1999. He spent five-and-a-half years with the military police (now security forces), one year as a corrections officer in Pennsylvania and is now on his second deployment with 3rd Bn., 6th Marines in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Back at Weapons Company’s FOB, Derr sat with his metal canteen cup of coffee and reflected on life in Iraq, his company and the changes he has seen over time.

“A lot has changed even since last year,” Derr said. “We have a lot more cooperation with the Iraqi police and the PSF. They weren’t as established as they are now. Now they’re a lot more legitimate and they’re starting to take this into their own hands so we (coalition forces) can fall back. That’s just in the last nine months, so it’s pretty significant.”

Derr described his relationship with his company and the other Marines he has trained and operated with.

“We’re a pretty tight company overall,” Derr said. “We have our fun times, but when it’s time to work, we work pretty hard. When we’re not working, then it’s time to relax and mellow out a little bit. As a company, we work well together and we’re very close. We had the entire (predeployment) workup together. We bonded pretty well at CAX (the combined arms training exercise, Marine Corps Base Twentynine Palms, Calif.). We have a lot of new guys. But the new guys seem to grasp the concept of how things operate out here. Even transitioning the older guys from a combat kinetic environment to a not-so kinetic environment is going smooth.”

Derr, who is married with his first child due in July, said his motivation comes from his intention to return his section safely to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., and knowing what awaits him back home.

“My motivation every day is to go back and meet my son,” Derr said. “(For now) it’s to go out, accomplish the mission and take care of my Marines. For the group of us who stepped onto that bus in North Carolina, my only goal is to get us home and then concentrate on being a family man and learn what it’s like to be a father.”

(Story by Cpl. Chris Lyttle, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment.)

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Institute of Heraldry to Update Several U.S. Campaign and Service Medals

Focus on Defense

Focus on Defense:

WASHINGTON, May 23, 2008 -- The Department of Defense announced today that The Institute of Heraldry (TIOH) will remove the word "medal" from four campaign and service medals in order to align their designs with heraldic protocols.

The word "medal" will be removed from the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal and Armed Forces Service Medal.

In addition, TIOH will resize eight campaign and service medals that were initially designed one-eighth of an inch larger in diameter than required by specification. The larger medals will be gradually replaced over the next several years as current stock levels are depleted. These medals will not be made obsolete and will remain authorized decorations. In addition, the applicable miniature medals will also be re-sized from eleven-sixteenths of an inch diameter to five-eighths of an inch.

The medals being resized are the: Kosovo Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Historically, campaign and service medal pendants are 1 1/4 inches in diameter; the only exceptions are the two victory medals commemorating the end of World War I and World War II; these medals were designed at 1 13/32 inches in diameter in order to enhance their heraldic stature given the magnitude of the two world wars.

(From a U.S. Defense Department press release.)

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Burma Lets Aid Workers In, Refuses U.S. Military Help

News in Balance

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, May 23, 2008 -- The Burmese junta’s agreement to allow in international aid workers does not change the status of Defense Department assets ready to assist the victims of Cyclone Nargis, a Pentagon spokesman said today.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced today that the Burmese junta would allow international aid workers into the devastated country. The death toll from the cyclone is estimated at 130,000, U.N. officials said. About 2.4 million Burmese were affected by the storm.

The United States military can continue to fly in C-130 airlifters with aid. Five aircraft landed at Rangoon International Airport today, bringing the total number of relief flights to 50. The flights have delivered 444 metric tons of supplies on 290 pallets.

Four U.S. Navy ships remain off Burma’s coast near the mouth of the Irrawaddy River, the most severely stricken area. The ships could provide massive quantities of relief supplies directly to the people most affected by the cyclone, but Burmese officials will not allow that.

“If nothing changes on the part of the Burmese government, we’re eventually going to have to make a decision” about how long the ships can remain, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said today. “Still, it’s very hard to turn your back on the suffering that we know is taking place right now, and so we’re going to continue to try to encourage [the Burmese leaders],” Whitman said.

Pentagon officials are encouraged by the junta’s decision to allow in the international aid workers. “Who knows, we might be successful in getting them to agree to further U.S. military aid,” Whitman said.

The ships will remain for the immediate future, but a decision on their status will come “in days or weeks, not months,” he said.

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

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Forces in Iraq Kill Six, Detain 54

Dispatches from the Front

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, May 23, 2008 -- Coalition forces killed six wanted men, detain 54 suspects, and discover multiple weapons caches throughout Iraq, military officials said.

Coalition forces captured six wanted men and detained an additional 15 suspected terrorists during operations targeting al-Qaida in Iraq from Baghdad to Mosul along the Tigris River valley.

During operations yesterday:
  • Iraqi soldiers found substantial weapons caches containing a wide range of weapons, rounds of various sizes, and other types of equipment in the Sadr City district of Baghdad.

  • Encouraged by tribal leaders to end a standoff with coalition forces, more than 140 suspected turned themselves in at the Joint Coordination Center in Balad.

  • Iraqi soldiers found multiple weapons caches and makeshift bombs in Sadr City as part of Operation Peace.

  • In southeastern Baghdad, soldiers discovered a weapons cache. The 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, soldiers, acting on a tip from a local citizen, found the cache in the Diyala area of New Baghdad and seized various weapons and rounds.

In operations May 21:
  • Coalition forces killed six men after they refused to follow instructions to surrender and exhibited hostile intent. Troops also detained two wanted individuals and detained 28 other suspected terrorists in separate operations.

  • Iraqi special operations forces captured a suspected insurgent financier in Zubayr. He is suspected of weapons smuggling along the Iraq-Iran border.

  • An Iraqi special weapons and tactics team captured two suspected terrorists in Mosul, including a high-ranking al-Qaida leader responsible for bombing attacks against Iraqi and coalition forces. Iraqi officials had issued a warrant for his arrest.

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

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USS George Washington Continues to San Diego Following Onboard Fire

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PACIFIC OCEAN (2008 FILE PHOTO) An E-2C Hawkeye assigned to Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 124 performs a fly-by maneuver over the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CV 73). (US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L. H. Davis.)

Related: Photo Essay

News in Balance:

ABOARD USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, May 23, 2008 -- At approximately 7:50 a.m. local time on May 22, a fire was detected in the vicinity of the aft air conditioning and refrigeration space and auxiliary boiler room aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73).

The fire spread to several spaces via a cableway and caused extreme heat in some of the ship spaces, but it was contained and extinguished by the crew without any serious injuries to personnel. It took several hours to completely contain and extinguish the fire.

The ship had been conducting a routine replenishment at sea in the Pacific Ocean with USS Crommelin (FFG 37) when smoke was observed and an emergency breakaway was initiated.

There were no serious injuries. Twenty-three Sailors were treated for heat stress and one Sailor was treated for first degree burns. The ship's crew was at general quarters for approximately 12 hours.

The ship's propulsion plant was not damaged and there were no reactor safety issues as a result of the fire. The ship has full propulsion capability.

George Washington is continuing as scheduled to San Diego prior to relieving the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) as the forward deployed aircraft carrier in the Western Pacific this summer.

Crew members of all U.S. Navy ships are highly trained in firefighting in order to be prepared to respond to this kind of incident. Fires at sea are taken very seriously.

An investigation into the cause and full assessment of damage caused by the fire is ongoing.

(Story from Naval Air Forces Public Affairs.)

Related: Combat Camera: USS George Washington Continues to San Diego Following Onboard Fire

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Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day

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Doreen Toomalatai, center, sister of fallen soldier, U.S. Army Pfc. David Toomalatai, rubs a marking of her brother's name with the help of her sister, Shavi, left, after a memorial re-dedication ceremony on Fort Hood, Texas, May 16, 2008. Toomalatai was a medic assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jeffrey Ledesma.)

Commentary:

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq, May 23, 2008 -- Not long ago while I was sitting at my desk at work, a fellow soldier presented an interesting question, not because of what it was, but because of why he asked it.

"So what's Memorial Day, again?" the soldier asked.

This kind of disturbed me. As it turns out, the confusion came from the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. While both are federal holidays to remember our nation's servicemembers past and present, only one commemorates the living.

The one that doesn't is May 26, the last Monday in May. That one would be Memorial Day. I just never thought I'd have to explain that to someone.

When Memorial Day comes around, a lot of thoughts rush to mind. Memories of picnics with the family, maybe catching the Indianapolis 500 on TV with a cold beverage in hand or enjoying the sun at a nearby public pool that just opened for the summer -- all of which are easily recognizable Memorial Day traditions. All the while, the true meaning of Memorial Day remains hidden in the back of our minds -- if it's even there at all.

Commemoration ceremonies and remembrances take place all over the United States on Memorial Day. We all know it's a holiday. It's a day off work, and it's got something to do with wars. Most people my age won't be seen at events like those. I know I've never been to my town's festivities -- not often, at least.

Four years ago, I would have been the last one to say I wanted to take time during the day commonly referred to as the beginning of summer to fill my head with sad memories of our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who never made it home. That was then. Three years ago, I was about 60 kilometers north of here on Logistics Support Area Anaconda near Balad for Memorial Day, and this year, I'm in Baghdad.

To me and a lot of other servicemembers braving the sand, heat and bullets in Iraq, Memorial Day carries a new meaning -- to remember not only those servicemembers we know only by the names on their tombstones at Arlington National Cemetery, but also the ones with whom we've shared meals and laughs while trying to make the best of discomfort.

I'm fortunate enough to say that I haven't lost a friend over here, but as my job takes me from unit to unit, the list of acquaintances grows -- and more than a few might not make it home.

Three years ago, I knew Memorial Day would have a whole new meaning for me -- and it truly does -- because it could just as easily have been my name stretched across a banner for hometown heroes lost in battle.

One day, I'm sure I'll hear that question again: “Which one is Memorial Day?” or something of the sort. Unlike most people, I'll have a unique story to tell -- just as we all do.

(Story by U.S. Army Sgt. Jerome Bishop, Multinational Division Baghdad Public Affairs Office.)

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Bush Honors 82nd Airborne Division Soldiers

News in Balance
President Bush salutes Sgt. Eric Moser, right, after awarding him the Distinguished Service Cross for exceptional valor and intrepid actions above and beyond the call of duty, Thursday, May 22, 2008, during the 82nd Airborne Division Review at Fort Bragg, N.C.

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, May 23, 2008 -- President Bush yesterday honored the courage, sacrifice and service of several 82nd Airborne Division soldiers who served with distinction in Afghanistan and Iraq.

During a ceremony at Fort Bragg, N.C., Bush made posthumous awards of the Distinguished Service Cross to Sgt. Charles Wyckoff’s wife, Erika, and the Silver Star medal to Barbara Walsh, mother of Sgt. 1st Class Benjamin Sebban. The Distinguished Service Cross is the highest military award after the Medal of Honor. The Silver Star is the third highest military award.

“America is fortunate to have courageous men and women who volunteer to protect us during these dangerous times,” Bush said.

The president also presented the Distinguished Service Cross to Spcs. Christopher Corriveau and Eric Moser, and Silver Star medals to Sgts. 1st Class Ronald Strickland and William Tomlin and Staff Sgt. Peter Rohrs.

Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Carswell was recognized as the division’s 2008 Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, and Spc. Russell Danley Jr. as the division’s 2008 Trooper of the Year.

Bush acknowledged that the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have been long and difficult. But, he emphasized, they both are necessary missions that greatly contribute to America’s security.

Specifically, achieving victory over terrorists in Iraq would demonstrate to the world “that America does not withdraw, does not retreat, does not back down in the face of terror, and that will make us safer here in the United States,” he said.

“When the history books are written,” Bush added, “they will show that this generation of heroes was as great as any in the history of our nation. They will show that America refused to shrink in the face of terror.

“They will show that America prevailed.”

Information on the soldiers and their awards follows:
  • Sebban, of 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry (Airborne Reconnaissance), earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on March 17, 2007, as a senior medic in Iraq. Sebban safeguarded the lives of 86 paratroopers during a suicide-car-bomb attack on a combat outpost. Sebban noticed a civilian truck accelerating toward the compound laden with explosives. Stepping from behind a Humvee, he moved toward the vehicle and warned his fellow paratroopers of the impending attack yelling three times until the explosion from the vehicle knocked him down. Although mortally wounded by shrapnel injuries to his abdomen, groin and legs, Sebban immediately moved to the aid station to begin treating his fellow wounded paratroopers until he collapsed and succumbed to his wounds. Sebban’s valiant actions prevented enemy insurgent forces from overrunning his position and caused the enemy element to retreat. Sebban enlisted in the Army in March 2000 and was from Neshanic Station, N.J.

  • Wyckoff, of 3rd Platoon, C Company, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry, earned the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action. He distinguished himself on June 6, 2007, as a rifle team leader in Afghanistan. While engaged in close combat against enemy forces, Wyckoff left his covered position without hesitation to force other members of his team to take cover. Wyckoff revealed his position and fatally engaged two insurgents to save the lives of his platoon. Wyckoff enlisted in the Army in June 2004 and was from Chula Vista, Calif.

  • Corriveau and Moser, both of C Company, 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, received the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action. Corriveau was part of a four-man sniper team, and Moser was a designated marksman. They distinguished themselves on Aug. 26, 2007, in Iraq. Surrounded and attacked by an enemy force 10 times superior to their own, the men and their fellow paratroopers valiantly repelled the enemy attack with withering small-arms fire and grenades, according to their award citations. Their sniper team fought off an overwhelming enemy force for control of the rooftop for more than 10 minutes in close combat, killing or wounding at least 10 enemies in the process. Corriveau enlisted in the Army in May 2005 and is from Lewiston, Maine. Moser enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2005 and is from Tomball, Texas.

  • Rohrs, Company C, 3-82nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action Nov. 9, 2007, while serving as a flight medic in Afghanistan. His selfless actions were directly responsible for the rescue of 12 critically wounded coalition soldiers. His courage, tactical abilities, and regard for the safety of his patients, crew and aircraft were remarkable. Rohrs enlisted in the Army in January 1997 and is from Scottsdale, Ariz.

  • Strickland was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action May 29, 2007, while engaged with an armed enemy during Operation Kulang Hellion, near Kajaki Sofla, in Afghanistan. He braved hostile fire in an attempt to rescue the crew of an aircraft shot down by enemy fire. He secured the crash site, engaged the attacking enemy with multiple weapons, and prevented the Taliban from capturing his fellow soldiers. Strickland enlisted in the Army in August 1991 and is from Rowland, N.C.

  • Tomlin, of 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, is awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action on April 9, 2007, while serving as scout platoon leader in Afghanistan. He distinguished himself against an enemy force that outnumbered his own by six to one. Tomlin led several dismounted counterattacks against the enemy at the risk of his own life and demonstrated leadership, personal courage, and selfless dedication, the award citation stated. His example of bravery under fire was the key component to turning a dire situation into a complete victory for the task force. Tomlin enlisted in the Army in March 1995 and is from Barkhamsted, Conn.

  • Carswell, the Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, is an infantryman assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division. He deployed to Afghanistan from July 2005 to November 2006. He later deployed to Iraq with 1st Battalion, 325th AIR, from July to December 2006 and then again from January to November 2007. He enlisted in the Army in November 1993 and is originally from George Hildebrand, N.C.

  • Danley, the Trooper of the Year, is an infantryman assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team. Danley deployed to Iraq from August 2006 to October 2007 with 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment. He enlisted in the Army in April 2004 and is from Vacaville, Calif.

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

Related: Transcript

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Thursday, May 22, 2008

Long Range U.S. Ballistic Missile Test a Success

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A Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile configured with a National Nuclear Security Administration joint-test assembly launches May 22 from North Vandenberg Launch Facility-10 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The launch was an operational test to determine the weapon system's reliability and accuracy. The missile's single unarmed re-entry vehicle traveled approximately 5,250 miles before hitting its pre-determined target in a broad ocean area 230 nautical miles southwest of Guam. (U.S Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Nathaniel Prost.)

Focus on Defense:

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., May 22, 2008 -- A Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile configured with a National Nuclear Security Administration, or NNSA, joint-test assembly, launched at 3:04 a.m. May 22 from Vandenberg Air Force Base.

The launch was an extended range test which proved the weapon system's reliability and accuracy.

The missile's single unarmed re-entry vehicle traveled approximately 5,250 miles before hitting its pre-determined target in a broad ocean area 230 nautical miles southwest of Guam.

This flight was approximately 1,000 miles farther than the traditional tests, which land in the Marshall Islands.

"The longer flight path is part of our testing procedures," said Capt. Jason Yeates, the launch director for the mission. "Every three years we test the extended range of the missile."

The more distant impact site imposed unique challenges which were overcome through a joint effort with the Navy.

"This mission was different in the fact that our normal target area is pre-configured for our re-entry vehicle scoring," Captain Yeates said. "To gather the data we needed in this new location, we joined with the Navy and one of their oceanographic vessels."

The Navy vessel deployed 16 rafts with on-board tracking instruments in a grid pattern to score the accuracy of the re-entry vehicle when it struck the water, Captain Yeates said.

This cooperative effort between the Air Force and the Navy was key to the success of the entire operation, he said.

"This mission was unique in its use of the extended range assets from the Navy's Mobile Instrumentation System on a T-AGS class ship," said Lt. Col. Lesa Toler, the 576th Flight Test Squadron commander. "Inter-service coordination was phenomenal resulting in a seamless operation and collection of the necessary data for a successful test."

Another unique feature of this mission was who led the launch itself. Captain Yeates was the first maintenance officer ever to act as launch director for a Minuteman III test launch.

While he said he was excited and honored to perform such a feat, Captain Yeates was quick to point out that maintenance officers have served as launch directors for Titan, Peacekeeper, as well as Minuteman I and II operational test launches.

The critical task of testing and improving our nation's ICBM fleet has been a mission unique to Vandenberg AFB since it's founding in 1958.

Through precise testing, weapon system improvements, and the resulting demonstration of a key Air Force deterrent, Vandenberg AFB Airmen help maintain strategic stability.

"For the past 50 years Vandenberg has been at the forefront of testing and improving American ballistic missiles," said Col. Steve Tanous, the 30th Space Wing commander. "Thanks to the hard work of the 30th SW and the 576th FLTS, we continue a proud legacy of assuring the readiness and reliability of our ICBM fleet."

(Story by 2nd Lt. Raymond Geoffroy, 30th Space Wing Public Affairs.)

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Petraeus Discusses Challenges in Central Command Area

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Gen. David H. Petraeus

News in Balance:

Violent Extremism Seen as Biggest Threat

WASHINGTON, May 22, 2008 -- Army Gen. David H. Petraeus gave senators his view of the U.S. Central Command during confirmation testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee here today.

Petraeus, nominated to be the next CentCom commander, currently commands Multinational Force Iraq.

The general spoke of the challenges in the diverse and strategically important CentCom area, which he described as “a region of regions,” and spoke frankly on the threat Iran poses to the region and the world.

Violent extremism is the biggest threat in CentCom, where U.S. servicemembers are engaged in two wars, Petraeus told the committee. “Al-Qaida is, of course, the highest-priority terrorist threat to many states in the region as well as to the United States and many of our allies around the world,” he said.

But there are other extremist groups in the region, and the governments in Tehran, Iran, and Damascus, Syria, support militant groups and proxies in the region, he said.

The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, delivery systems and the spread of technical expertise is another worry in the region, Petraeus said.

“The lack of transparency in efforts by countries such as Iran and Syria to develop their nuclear programs is a major concern to states in the region and could spark a destabilizing regional arms race,” he said. The command also worries about terrorist groups getting nuclear weapons, he added.

Though CentCom is a combatant command, its leaders also are concerned about the lack of sustainable economic development in some countries of the region, the general said. Per capita income ranges from $200 in the Horn of Africa and some countries of Central Asia to more than $70,000 for the citizens of the Persian Gulf states, he noted.

“This is not just a domestic social or humanitarian issue; it is a serious security concern, as well, for without economic opportunity, poor and disenfranchised communities can serve as hotbeds for the spread of violent extremism,” the general said. “We have seen this in a number of areas in the region in recent years.”

Narcotics and arms trafficking, piracy and smuggling are also transnational threats in the region. “These damage societies, threaten legitimate commerce and the flow of strategic resources, and often benefit terrorist networks,” he said. “These activities must be addressed if international efforts to combat terrorist financing are to succeed.”

Petraeus gave the senators a rundown of key issues in CentCom’s area of responsibility.

“In Iraq, Iraqi and coalition forces continue to build on the security gains of the past 15 months as we also continue to reduce U.S. forces and transition responsibility to Iraqi security forces, strive to maintain the conditions necessary for political progress, help build governmental capacity, and seek to foster economic development,” he said.

Last week saw the lowest number of security incidents in the country in more than four years, Petraeus told the committee.

“It appears that the week that ends tomorrow will see an even lower number of incidents,” he said. “This has been achieved despite having now withdrawn three of the five brigade combat teams scheduled to redeploy without replacement by the end of July and also with the reduction of the two Marine battalions and Marine expeditionary unit.”

Operations in Basra, Mosul and Sadr City have demonstrated the Iraqi forces’ training, resilience and resolve, Petraeus said.

“As always, tough fights and hard work lie ahead,” he said. “Nonetheless, I believe that the path we are on will best help achieve the objective of an Iraq that is at peace with itself and its neighbors, that is an ally in the war on terror, that has a government that serves all Iraqis and that is an increasingly prosperous and important member of the global economy and community of nations.”

Iran is a destabilizing force in the region, the general said. Iran continues its nuclear program and continues to fund, train and arm dangerous militia organizations, he said.

“Iran’s activities have been particularly harmful in Iraq, Lebanon, the Palestinian territories and Afghanistan,” the general said. “In each location, Tehran has, to varying degrees, fueled proxy wars in an effort to increase its influence and pursue its regional ambitions.”

Afghanistan has been and remains one of the poorest countries on Earth. NATO’s International Security Assistance Force is helping Afghanistan build and rebuild. Allies are helping the country provide basic services, develop infrastructure and create legitimate alternatives to poppy farming, Petraeus said.

“Due to the scale of the challenges involved and the difficulties in the security arena in particular, we should expect Afghanistan to require substantial international commitment and support for many years to come,” the general said.

Pakistan remains an important partner in efforts to combat terrorism, but its newly elected government “faces serious economic difficulties and energy shortages, and it is still solidifying its coalition and coming to grips with how to respond to internal threats that have global implications,” Petraeus said.

Taliban and al-Qaida capability and control in the federally administered tribal areas in Pakistan’s Northwest Frontier province continue to grow. “Foreign fighters continue to flow from Pakistan into Afghanistan, where they're a violent and destabilizing influence,” the general said.

The countries of Central Asia have abundant opportunities for building security and economic partnerships and for pursuing common interests, Petraeus told the committee.

Terrorist activities and instability continue in Lebanon and Syria, while the United States continues building security partnerships with Jordan and Egypt. “In Lebanon, the government is grappling with the political and militia activities of Lebanese Hezbollah,” he said.

Petraeus told the senators that if he is confirmed as CentCom commander he will seek to strengthen international partnerships.

“We will continue to pursue strong bilateral and multilateral partnerships and to identify, further develop and pursue mutual interests,” he said. “Engagement will be a central aspect of my responsibilities as the CentCom commander if confirmed.”

The command also will seek to partner with other departments and agencies within the U.S. government, “taking a whole-of-government approach to the challenges and opportunities,” he said.

“In most of the issues we'll address, a purely military approach is unlikely to succeed,” he noted, “and our strategy must recognize that.”

He said he’d seek to deal with the underlying causes of challenges in the region.

“Finally, we should both support the ongoing operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and ensure readiness for possible contingency operations in order to be prepared to assist in the event of natural disasters to ensure sufficient deterrence of actions that might threaten regional partners and, if necessary, to be ready to defeat aggressors that threaten our vital interests in the region,” he said.

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

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