Combat Camera: Aboard USS Kitty Hawk; July 5, 2008

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (July 1, 2008) Sailors man the rails aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) as she transits the Pearl Harbor channel to participate in Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise 2008. RIMPAC will be Kitty Hawk's last major exercise before the aircraft carrier is decommissioned at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington early next year. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James E. Foehl (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 26, 2008) The aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) receives fuel from the Military Sealift Command auxiliary oiler USNS Guadalupe (T-AO 200) while steaming through the central Pacific Ocean. The ships will both be taking part in the 'Rim of the Pacific' exercise off Hawaii in July with units from Australia, Chile, Japan, the Netherlands, Peru, South Korea, Singapore and the United Kingdom. This will be Kitty Hawk's last exercise before returning to the U.S. mainland for decommissioning in early 2009. Kitty Hawk will be replaced by USS George Washington (CVN 73) this summer as the Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier operating from Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Seaman Anthony R. Martinez (Released)

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (July 1, 2008) Children salute the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk as the ship enters Naval Station Pearl Harbor. Kitty Hawk is making a port visit to Pearl Harbor before taking part in exercise Rim of the Pacific 2008 off Hawaii this month with units from Australia, Chile, Japan, the Netherlands, Peru, South Korea, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Taking part are 35 ships, 6 submarines, more than 150 aircraft, and 20,000 sailors, airmen, marines, soldiers and coast guardsmen. This will be the last exercise for Kitty Hawk before returning to the U.S. mainland for decommissioning in early 2009. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Don Bray (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 18, 2008) Sailors stand clear of a Strike Fighter Squadron 192 F/A-18C Hornet as it takes off from the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). Kitty Hawk is the oldest active-duty warship in the U.S. Navy and will be replaced this summer by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Reckard (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 23, 2008) The Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Regina (FFH 334), front, and the frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48) sail on the starboard side of the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). Kitty Hawk is returning to the United States for decommissioning after 47 years of service, 10 of which have been in Japan and will be replaced by the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) this summer. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Reckard (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 20, 2008) Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kyle Gahlau, right, of Conyers, Ga., photographs Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class John Tran, left, and Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Marquis Pinder as they run after attaching a cargo pennant to a Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25 MH-60S Seahawk aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). The ship is returning to the United States for decommissioning after 47 years of service and will be replaced by USS George Washington (CVN 73) this summer as the Navy's only carrier operating from Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Anthony R. Martinez (Released)

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii, (July 1, 2008) Visitors to Naval Station Pearl Harbor look on as the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) ties up at pier. The carrier is taking part in exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2008 off Hawaii this month with units from the U.S., Australia, Chile, Japan, the Netherlands, Peru, South Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom. This will be the final exercise for Kitty Hawk before returning to the U.S. mainland for decommissioning in early 2009. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Don Bray (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 15, 2008) Seaman Jevon Standback, of Chicago, Ill., stands helmsman watch on the bridge of the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). The helmsman steers the ship and the lee helmsman, not shown, controls the ship's speed. Kitty Hawk is returning to the United States for decommissioning after 47 years of service. Kitty Hawk will be replaced by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) later this summer. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Reinhardt (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 17, 2008) Sailors assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136 conduct a post-flight check on the cockpit of an EA-6B Prowler aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). Kitty Hawk is returning to the United States for decommissioning after 47 years of service. The ship will be replaced by nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Patrick Heil (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 15, 2008) Operations Specialist Seaman Tristan Exum watches the radar on the bridge of the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) to report aircraft positions. Kitty Hawk is returning to the United States for decommissioning after 47 years of service. Kitty Hawk will be replaced by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) later this summer. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Reinhardt (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 16, 2008) Members of the crash and salvage crew aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk drive across the flight deck as a Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 14 aircraft lands in the background. Kitty Hawk is returning to the United States for decommissioning after 47 years of service. The ship will be replaced by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) this summer as the Navy's only carrier operating from Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Reinhardt (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 15, 2008) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). Kitty Hawk is returning to the United States for decommissioning after 47 years of service, 10 of which have been in Japan and will be replaced by the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) this summer. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kyle D. Gahlau (Released)

PACIFIC OCEAN (2008 FILE PHOTO) Machinist's Mate Fireman Apprentice Tommy Stanley, a native of Kirbyville, Texas, plays his guitar aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman John J. Mike (Released)

On the Home Front:

Kitty Hawk Sailors Surprise Shipmate on Nashville Star

NASHVILLE, Tenn.July 5, 2008 -- Sailors from USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) flew off the ship to travel to Nashville, to support their fellow shipmate, a Nashville Star contestant.

Machinist's Mate Fireman Tommy Stanley had no idea his shipmates were present for the show. They were kept hidden back stage until host Billy Ray Cyrus told Stanley there was a surprise for him.

Three Kitty Hawk Sailors in their dress whites, walked out onto the stage, introduced themselves to the audience and offered words of congratulations and encouragement to Stanley.

"It is awesome that we got to come to Nashville to support Stanley," said Machinist's Mate 3rd Class Kody Davis. "He is one of my best friends and to see him and how far he has come is awesome."

Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Reinhardt told Stanley, along with the viewing audience, that from the first time he heard Stanley, sing he knew he was talented.

After the Sailors left the stage they were escorted to VIP seating where they watched the rest of the show. Following the show they were able to spend a little time with Stanley before they returned to Kitty Hawk.

Stanley was stationed aboard Kitty Hawk when his fellow Sailor and friend, Reinhardt, filmed his first video for Nashville Star.

"We only had two days to put the video together, but it was great to be able to help out a friend," said Reinhardt.

NBC liked Reinhardt's initial video so much that they asked him to shoot more footage so that it could be used on the first Nashville Star show, which aired June 9.

Reinhardt explained that he put together between six and seven hours of footage for NBC.

"It was surreal to have the footage I shot for a friend air on national television," said Reinhardt. "I was incredibly honored to be able to shoot the footage and to have NBC like it. It left me just speechless."

Stanley is one of the top eight contestants on the show.

Even though his shipmates aboard Kitty Hawk have not been able to watch the shows when they air, they have been tracking his success. The ship set up a special section on their Web site called, "Fireman Stanley Star Watch," to keep Stanley's shipmates informed on his progress.

(Story by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kimberly deJong, Navy Recruiting District Nashville Public Affairs.)

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U.S. Troops in Afghanistan Celebrate 4th of July

U.S. Army Sgt. Robert Wilson, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, fills a plate with barbecue at Camp Eggers' Independence Day celebration in Kabul, Afghanistan. Servicemembers participated in a myriad of traditional Fourth of July events including a basketball tournament, horse shoes and a pie-eating contest. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio.)

Dispatches from the Front:

KABUL, Afghanistan, July 4, 2008 -- Servicemembers assigned to the Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan celebrated America's 232nd Independence Day today in the traditional way, but in a non-traditional setting.

Video.

Serving thousands of miles away from home in a warzone, servicemembers took time off to recharge and partake in the things that make the Fourth of July a special holiday -- including a basketball tournament, horse shoes, a pie-eating contest and a barbecue.

Kicking off the day's events were opening remarks and a cake-cutting ceremony led by Maj. Gen. Robert Cone, CSTC-A commanding general.

"Today, we see our flag displayed in Blackhawks and Humvees, on aircraft carriers and fighter jets, in tactical operations centers and combat outposts. We wear the flag on our uniforms and bear it in our hearts. We salute it, we serve under it, and we fight for it," General Cone said.

Camp Eggers' Morale, Welfare and Recreation organized the event, providing a taste of home for all soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and civilians here.

"I'm so pleased it turned out well," said Air Force Maj. Regina Rockel, CSTC-A MWR officer. "The garrison commander and all the noncommissioned officers did an outstanding job in making this a fun time for everyone on Camp Eggers."

Adding to the festive atmosphere was Camp Eggers' own Freedom Band. The band, made up of servicemembers from Camp Eggers, played patriotic tunes throughout the day.

"We formed just for this occasion," said Air Force Master Sgt. Donnell Woodard, the Freedom Band's leader and guitarist. "This is how we celebrate when we're home too. Good music, family and friends. We have that here as well."

For most servicemembers, the celebration was a reminder of home, with many activities being identical to those held stateside. Many servicemembers reflected on what their families were doing to celebrate America's independence.

"At home we would be going to the beach and having a big cookout," said Navy Lt. Kevin Davis, from Jacksonville, Fla. "We make the entire day one to remember."

Good food, music and festivities made sure that servicemembers would remember July Fourth in Afghanistan for a long time to come, as well.

(Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Shawn D. Graham, CSTC-A Public Affairs.)

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More Than 1,200 U.S. Troops in Iraq Re-enlist on Independence Day

1,215 Servicemembers from all over Iraq gather in the Al Faw Palace rotunda on Camp Victory, to re-enlist and celebrate America’s Independence Day, July 4, 2008. (Photo by MNF-I Public Affairs.)

News in Balance:

BAGHDAD, July 4, 2008 -- Servicemembers from all over Iraq gathered here today in the Al Faw Palace rotunda on Camp Victory, to re-enlist and celebrate America’s Independence Day.

Video (1 of 2), Video (2 of 2).

All 1,215 servicemembers celebrated by raising their right hand and pledging to continue defending the ‘land of the free’ in what is the largest re-enlistment ceremony since the all-volunteer force began in 1973, according to the Multi-National Force – Iraq Command Sergeant Major, Command Sgt, Maj. Marvin L. Hill.

“Volunteering to continue to serve our nation, while deployed – is both noble and inspiring,” said Gen. David Petraeus, commanding general, Multi-National Force – Iraq. “It is, as award citations often state, in keeping with the finest traditions of our military services.”

Petraeus presided over the ceremony and led the airmen, Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers in their oath to defend their country against all enemies both foreign and domestic on this day of celebration of America winning its independence.

"We recognize the sacrifices they make and the sacrifices their families and communities make as they serve in Iraq," Hill said. “These servicemembers know the cost of war and they are still re-enlisting.”

All together, the servicemembers pledged more than 5,500 years of additional service to their country.

“It makes me feel proud to serve this great nation,” said Spc. Zackary Cunningham, mechanic, 602nd Maintenance Battalion, Tactical Base Balad, who plans on making the Army a career.

The re-enlistees have every right to feel proud, according to Petraeus.

“You and your comrades here have been described as America’s new greatest generation, and, in my view, you have more than earned that description,” Petraeus said. “It is the greatest of honors to soldier here with you.”

(Story from an MNF-I press release.)

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Historic 48 Star American Flag Flown in Afghanistan

Retired Navy Cmdr. Joseph Agra III (left), Afghan national army air corps logistics mentor, reads a citation regarding an American flag with 48 stars that was raised during a ceremony July 4 at Camp Eggers in Kabul, Afghanistan. Agra acquired the flag in 2000 after a fisherman retrieved it from the water off the coast of the Bataan Penninsula in the Philippines. Agra has carried the flag to several locations and has flown it over camps in Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio, Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan.)

A group of sailors from the Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan hold an American flag with 48 stars July 4, after it was flown over Camp Eggers in Kabul, Afghanistan. Retired Navy Cmdr. Joseph Agra III acquired the flag in 2000 after a fisherman retrieved it from the water off the coast of the Bataan Penninsula in the Philippines. Agra has carried the flag to several locations and has flown it over camps in Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio, Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan.)

A formation of sailors salute as an American flag with 48 stars is raised over Camp Eggers in Kabul, Afghanistan, July 4. Retired Navy Cmdr. Joseph Agra III acquired the flag in 2000 after a fisherman retrieved it from the water off the coast of the Bataan Penninsula in the Philippines. Agra has carried the flag to several locations and has flown it over camps in Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio, Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan.)

Living History:

Troops Fly American Flag Found Off the Coast of the Bataan Peninsula

KABUL, Afghanistan, July 4, 2008 -- More than 50 U.S. sailors rendered a salute as their nation’s colors were raised over Camp Eggers in honor of America’s Independence Day.

What made the ceremony so special was the American flag had only 48 stars.

Video.

The flag was flown courtesy of retired Navy Cmdr. Joseph Agra III, who works at the Kabul International Airport as a logistics mentor for the Afghan national army air corps.

Agra acquired the flag from a Filipino fisherman while living in the Philippines in 2000. The fisherman retrieved it from his net while fishing off the coast of the Bataan Peninsula.

“I saw the flag on a pole and asked the fisherman where he got it,” Agra said. “After he told me, I asked if I could have it. He sold it to me for ten dollars.”

Agra said after taking the flag home and washing it, his son realized it only had 48 stars. Upon this discovery, Agra started researching flags for a hint of its origin.

Because the 48-star flag was only flown between 1912 and 1959, Agra theorized that it came from one of five U.S. Navy ships that were sunk by the Imperial Japanese forces in the opening months of World War II.

“I researched the ships that were sunk in hostile fire, instead of being scuttled,” Agra said. “When you’re scuttled, you take everything you can off the ship. I think this flag went down with a ship.”

For eight years, Agra carried the flag with him to several locations. He has flown the flag over camps in the Philippines, Kuwait, Iraq and now Afghanistan.

After the flag was raised, Navy Capt. Shawno May, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan command surgeon directorate, spoke to the formation of sailors.

“The men that served under this flag more than 50 years ago gave their last full measure of devotion,” May said. “These men were fighting in the Philippines to help freedom ring in a land where it wasn't. Again, America finds itself in a country where freedom is just beginning to ring.”

Master Chief Bennie Gloria, CSTC-A Equal Opportunity advisor, said the ceremony was a perfect way to start the Independence Day celebration.

“It’s very important that we remember our shipmates that came before us and lost their lives,” Gloria said. “We are their legacy.”

When the ceremony ended, the sailors took turns touching the flag and taking in a little part of history.

“I wanted to share it with others,” Agra said. “I could have kept it and hung it in my living room, but then I would only see it.”

Agra retired from active duty last year and will return to his home in the Philippines after his tour in Afghanistan. When he returns, he plans to donate the flag to a World War II museum and American cemetery near the location it was found.

“It’s their flag,” Agra said, speaking of the veterans who lost their life in World War II. “It’s a symbol. These men lost their lives fighting for their country, they are buried there. That is where
the flag should be.”

(Story by Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan Public Affairs.)

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July 4, 1776: Birth of a Nation

Commentary:

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., July 4, 2008 -- As we celebrate our nation's 232nd birthday, it's humbling to look back and imagine the difficulties faced by those leaders who were "eyes on" the formation of a new republic.

In 1776, the idea of a new world colony gaining independence from the world's most powerful country appeared a bit far-fetched, and in some circles of European society, an amusing and deadly venture. Yet despite the daunting challenges, there was enough creative energy among our very different colonial state leaders to organize a new government and fight for survival.

The key to success was leadership; both in the planning stages of a new government and directly on the battlefield. Our founding fathers understood the power of leading from the front.

In the planning stage for a new republic, the Continental Congress was wise enough to select five successful leaders to write and publish the Declaration of Independence. This ultimate working group included Thomas Jefferson, age 33; John Adams, age 41; and Benjamin Franklin, the senior mentor at age 70.

Their finished product brazenly told the world the United States of America was open for business. The signers of the Declaration of Independence publicly put their relatively cozy lives and fortunes on the line for a new form of government.

More importantly, the Declaration of Independence helped Gen. George Washington rally his troops by putting on paper the ideals and freedoms they were fighting to establish, preserve and protect. General Washington faced incredible manpower and resource shortfalls on the battlefield in 1776. He persevered by keeping our fighting forces intact, picking his battles wisely, and understanding that as long as we had a military we had a nation.

General Washington's art of the long view is something we all need to remember the next time we complain about resource shortfalls or the direction of our own organizations.

So a hearty "Happy birthday" to the United States of America! As a nation we have both sputtered and soared through the centuries and decades. We were, and still are, imperfect at times. Yet during other periods we seem blessed with providence. And while fate certainly is a factor in any nation's success, I believe leadership and just plain hard work generated our own good fortune.

In the end, we have survived every challenge and we remain this world's best example of what Abraham Lincoln called a nation of the people, by the people and for the people.

(Commentary by Col. Steve DePalmer, 53rd Wing.)

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10,000th MRAP Delivered to U.S. Military

Focus on Defense:

WASHINGTON, July 3, 2008 -- The rapid response by the Department of Defense to protect the warfighters reached a major milestone today when the 10,000th Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle rolled off the assembly line and into government hands.

In February 2008 the MRAP program office, headed by Marine Corps Systems Command, recorded its 5,000th MRAP vehicle acceptance. That milestone was reached less than a year after the Secretary of Defense Robert Gates made MRAPs the DoD's top acquisition priority. Since then, the program has advanced at near-unprecedented speed, doubling production of the life-saving vehicle in just over four months.

Gates said, "This is a significant achievement. This program has gone from zero to ten thousand in just about a year and a half. These vehicles have proven themselves on the battlefield and are saving lives"

"The many successes of the joint MRAP vehicle program are the result of an overwhelming team effort by the many players in this program," said Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Michael Brogan, MCSC commander. "From production to integration, from transportation to fielding, many commands and organizations have played major roles in this program."

Within weeks this 10,000th truck, which is built to help withstand close-up impact of an improvised explosive device while protecting people inside, will join its predecessors on the front lines in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Marine Corps Systems Command in Quantico, Va., is the designated joint program office and manages the overall program for DoD. Before being shipped overseas, the MRAP will be installed with weapons, radios and other equipment by the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command center at Charleston, S.C. From that point U.S. Transportation Command takes over and moves the vehicles by air and sea to the combat zone.

The final contract order for MRAP vehicles is expected later in the summer, bringing the overall total more than 15,000 vehicles in the current build-up.

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

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Pentagon Announces Guantanamo Detainee Transfer

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, July 3, 2008 -- The Department of Defense announced yesterday the transfer of two detainees from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to Algeria. These detainees were determined to be eligible for transfer following a comprehensive series of review processes.

The transfer is a demonstration of the United States' desire not to hold detainees any longer than necessary. It also underscores the processes put in place to assess each individual and make a determination about their detention while hostilities are ongoing -- an unprecedented step in the history of warfare.

The Department of Defense has determined -- through its comprehensive review processes -- that more than 65 detainees at Guantanamo are eligible for transfer or release. Departure of these detainees is subject to ongoing discussions between the United States and other nations.

Since 2002, more than 500 detainees have departed Guantanamo for other countries including Albania, Algeria, Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Belgium, Denmark, Egypt, France, Great Britain, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives, Mauritania, Morocco, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Sudan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Uganda, United Kingdom and Yemen.

There are approximately 265 detainees currently at Guantanamo.

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

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Pentagon Grants NATO Request to Extend Tour of Marines in Afghanistan

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, July 3, 2008 -- Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates has approved a NATO-led International Security Assistance Force request that the 2,200 Marines of 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit remain in Afghanistan a month longer than planned.

Marine Corps spokesman Maj. Dave Nevers said the Marines “have been doing an effective job” in Regional Command South.

NATO officials said the ISAF commander, Army Gen. David McKiernan, requested the one-month extension.

“The extension will allow these Marines to reinforce the success they have had on the ground,” a Defense Department official speaking on background said.

The unit is part of a one-time deployment to Afghanistan that began in March. The original orders called for the Marines to be back at Camp Lejeune, N.C., in October. The extension will move their return into November. Families began receiving notification of the extension yesterday.

There are still no plans to replace the Marines once their tour in the volatile area is complete. A total of 12 Marines have been killed fighting the Taliban and their al-Qaida allies since the deployment began.

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

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More Than 1,100 U.S. Troops in Iraq to Re-enlist in Independence Day Ceremony

News in Balance:

EDITORS NOTE: This Independence Day story brings to mind the difference between those who give holiday speeches because they feel the need to defend their patriotism and patriots who celebrate our nation's birthday with their desire to defend our liberty.
--SM

WASHINGTON, July 3, 2008 -- More than 1,100 servicemembers stationed in Iraq will celebrate the nation’s birthday tomorrow by re-enlisting, the senior enlisted leader for Multinational Force Iraq said today.

Army Command Sgt. Maj. Marvin L. Hill said 1,157 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines will re-enlist at the Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory, in Baghdad. This may be the largest re-enlistment ceremony since the all-volunteer force began in 1973, Hill said via phone from Baghdad.

This is becoming an annual blockbuster event for the command. Last year, 588 servicemembers re-enlisted.

“We are extremely proud of the accomplishments we have made in security on the ground as well as proud of all of our great warriors for the work they are doing since they arrived in theater,” Hill said. “We recognize the sacrifices they make and the sacrifices their families and communities make as they serve in Iraq.”

These servicemembers know the cost of war and they are still re-enlisting, Hill said. Some serve in “the most austere conditions -- meaning they are in patrol bases and combat outposts,” he noted. Some of the re-enlisting servicemembers are in places where the troops “hot-bunk it” -- that is, they take turns using limited sleeping space -- and burn human waste because they lack plumbing. Others are based in more comfortable surroundings.

The vast majority of the servicemembers tell Hill and others that they are re-enlisting because “they are doing what they joined the military to do,” he said.

“If they joined to be a rifleman, they’re doing it in combat,” the sergeant major said. “If they joined to fix helicopters, they’re doing it and doing it in combat.”

Often in years past, he said, some warriors probably felt they weren’t doing what they joined the military to do, he said.

“Now, since we’ve been fighting this global war on terrorism … these warriors are doing what they joined to do,” he explained. “They can see the fruit of their labor and see the fruit of the sacrifices of those who have gone before them. It makes them feel good about what they are doing.”

The ceremony will be broadcast on the Pentagon Channel, Hill said. Multinational Force Iraq Commander Army Gen. David H. Petraeus will preside. Hill and Petraeus will speak at the ceremony, then Petraeus will administer the oath of enlistment.

A 50-gun salute will honor of the nation’s birthday, and then all will sing “God Bless America.” The ceremony will end with a medley of service songs.

All components of the military are represented in the ceremony. Officials said 738 active-duty soldiers, 188 National Guard soldiers, and 122 Army Reserve soldiers are re-enlisting, along with 54 Marines, 39 sailors and 16 airmen.

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

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Colombian Military Rescues Hostages, Including U.S. Contractors

Two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters assigned to the Texas Army National Guard wait with their engines running as the U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft with the three former hostages arrives on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, July 2, 2008. The hostages were rescued by Colombian forces after being held captive by guerillas for more than five years. U.S. Air Force photo Lance Cheung.

A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft with the three former hostages inside arrives on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, July 2, 2008. The defense contract employees were rescued rescued by Colombian forces after more than five years' captivity in Colombia. They were captured by Colombian guerillas when their plane crashed in the jungle. U.S. Air Force photo Lance Cheung.

Keith Stansell, left, Marc Gonsalves, center, and Thomas Howes prepare to walk off a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III as they arrive on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, July 2, 2008. The three were held as hostages in Colombia for more than five years, after their plane crashed in the jungle in February 2003. U.S. Air Force photo Lance Cheung.

Keith Stansell, a hostage returned safely to the United States after more than five years' captivity in Colombia, hugs one of the people who helped him as he arrives on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, July 2, 2008. U.S. Air Force photo by Lance Cheung.

Mark Gonsalves, left, and Thomas Howes step off an U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, July 2, 2008. Marc Gonsalves and Thomas Howes both U.S. defense contractor employees were captured by Colombian guerillas after their plane crashed in the jungle in February 2003. U.S. Air Force photo by Lance Cheung.

Keith Stansell asteps off the back ramp of a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globmaster III as he arrives on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, July 2, 2008. Stansell was one of three U.S. defense contractor employees captured by Colombian guerillas after their plane crashed in the jungle in February 2003. U.S. Air Force photo by Lance Cheung.

Keith Stansell, a hostage returned safely to the United States after more than five years captivity in Colombia, gives a thumbs up as he arrives on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, July 2, 2008. U.S. Air Force photo by Lance Cheung.

The U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft and crew that brought three former hostages to U.S. soil on Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, July 2, 2008. U.S. Air Force photo by Lance Cheung.

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, July 3, 2008 -- Colombia's military yesterday rescued 15 hostages, including three U.S. government contractors, from leftist revolutionary captors who had imprisoned the group in jungle camps since 2003.

The contractors returned to the United States aboard a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III transport jet, which delivered them to Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, shortly before midnight.

They then traveled by helicopter to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio for treatment.

Marc Gonsalves, Thomas Howes and Keith Stansell -- all employees of the Los Angeles-based Northrop Grumman Corp. -- were captured in February 2003 after their drug-surveillance plane went down in the jungles of southern Colombia. They spent five years in captivity, the longest period of captivity for any American hostages.

“We are delighted with the safe recovery of these Americans after more than five years of captivity,” Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said in a statement yesterday.

“We commend the government of Colombia for its sustained efforts to secure the safe return of all FARC hostages,” Rice said, using the Spanish acronym for the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia captors. The United States has considered FARC a terrorist organization since November 2001.

"The United States calls on the FARC to release immediately all remaining hostages so they may be returned safely to their families," she said. "We hold the FARC responsible for the health and well-being of all hostages. Our thoughts and prayers remain with those still held by the FARC and their loved ones."

The rescue mission took place in Guaviare province, a jungle region in south-central Colombia, where commandos deceived a rebel unit into handing over the hostages, according to news reports.

By late afternoon, the prisoners, who included former Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt, were flown to the main military air base in the Colombian capital of Bogota.

Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said the operation was planned, led and executed by Colombia.

Asked today if the United States played a role in the mission, Whitman said only that the two countries’ militaries have a strong relationship that includes “a certain amount of cooperation and information sharing.”

(Story by John J. Kruzel, American Forces Press Service.)

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Troops in Afghanistan Kill, Detain Enemy Fighters

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, July 3, 2008 -- Coalition forces in Afghanistan killed several enemy fighters and detained eight others in recent days, military officials said.

Yesterday in Afghanistan:

• An Afghan noncombatant was killed and several were wounded when a militant mortar attack directed at a coalition base in Konar province missed and struck near a group of local citizens. The militants, 300 meters inside Pakistan, repeatedly fired mortars at a coalition base and missed, officials said. Coalition forces returned artillery fire, and the militants retreated, officials added.

• Three Taliban militants were detained in Ghazni province, where coalition forces were targeting a Taliban militant in the area.

• Coalition forces detained five militants while targeting a senior Taliban leader and homemade-bomb facilitator in Helmand province. During the search, forces discovered assault rifles and a cache of opium. The weapons and drugs were destroyed to prevent possible militant use.

In an operation June 30, several militants were killed during a reconnaissance patrol by Afghan national security forces and coalition forces in the Maywand district of Kandahar province. The militants attacked the patrol using rockets. The militants were pursued and were later killed with precision air strikes, officials said.

(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 101 news releases.)

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Troops in Iraq Kill Enemy Fighters, Detain Suspects, Seize Weapons

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, July 3, 2008 -- Coalition forces in Iraq killed enemy fighters, detained terrorism suspects and found illegal weapons stockpiles in operations over the last three days, military officials reported.

Coalition forces conducted operations spanning central and northwestern Iraq today, killing two enemy fighters and detaining eight suspected terrorists while targeting al-Qaida networks.

In Mosul, coalition forces netted an alleged terrorist leader and a suspected associate. The alleged leader is believed to oversee kidnappings, assassinations and extortion operations in the city, officials said.

Coalition forces also targeted a suspected al-Qaida in Iraq foreign terrorist facilitator near Ribat, a town along the Euphrates River near the Iraq-Syria border. The man barricaded himself in a room with a weapon. Perceiving hostile intent, coalition forces engaged and killed him. Three associates were detained.

Also today, coalition forces targeted the alleged leader of an al-Qaida in Iraq cell in Shargat. Two people complied when the force called for occupants of a building to surrender, but one man refused to follow coalition forces' instructions. Perceiving hostile intent from the man, coalition forces engaged and killed him. Coalition forces later found a suicide vest on the roof and an underground tunnel outside the building.

In operations yesterday:

• A precision operation in Baghdad led coalition forces to capture a man suspected of being a leader of several al-Qaida in Iraq cells in the southern area of the city. The suspect is believed to be responsible for bombings, kidnappings and attacks against coalition forces.

• Coalition forces in Baghdad detained a man suspected of involvement in the al-Qaida propaganda network.

• Soldiers working with Iraqi security forces detained seven suspected criminals during a search in Baghdad’s Rashid district.

• In two operations, Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers discovered a rocket rigged as a roadside bomb, as well as a rocket-propelled grenade round and an artillery round. An explosive ordnance disposal team responded to handle the explosive device.

• Soldiers detained a suspected criminal in the Hadar community. The patrol returned with the suspect to a combat outpost for further questioning.

• In three separate operations, Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers seized rocket-propelled grenades, a machine gun, two containers of propellant, various rounds, command wires, anti-tank mines, rockets and mortar rounds.

In operations July 1:

• While on patrol near the city of Karmah, an Iraqi quick-reaction force discovered a substantial weapons cache that contained various sized mortars, rounds, projectiles, rocket-propelled grenades, rockets, mortar fillings, mortar stabilizing fins, and a hand grenade.

• Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers seized eight weapons caches in separate operations. The caches contained 80 cans of anti-aircraft rounds, rockets, rocket tubes and several tubes of various sizes, a rocket-propelled-grenade round, mortar rounds, a machine gun, AK-47 assault rifle magazines, a pistol belt, a bayonet, bomb-making materials, grenades, artillery rounds, a primer connected to a power sources, and a license plate.

• Iraqi National Police seized a cache inside a mosque in the New Baghdad security district of eastern Baghdad. They found artillery rounds, TNT, a license plate, and two steel barriers in the Al-Sadrayn Mosque. No coalition forces were present inside the mosque, officials said.

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

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Families Gather on Anniversary of Afghanistan Battle

Photo Illustration commemorating the Medal of Honor presented posthumously to Lt. Michael P. Murphy (Sea, Air, Land). (U.S. Navy Illustration by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jay Chu.)

News in Balance:

SAN DIEGO, July 2, 2008 -- More than 60 family members who shared the loss of Navy and Army special operations personnel, during Operation Redwings in Afghanistan three years ago, met in San Diego, June 27, at Naval Special Warfare Command.

It marked the first time families from both military services involved in Redwings reunited since the fateful battle June 28, 2005. Navy SEALs -- 11 in all -- and eight Army soldiers from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, known as the Night Stalkers, were killed in action against overwhelming Taliban forces in the Hindu Kush mountains.

"It makes the day a little bit easier just being with people that truly understand what our husbands, sons and loved ones did," said Leslie Ponder, widow of Master Sgt. James W. Ponder III.

High in the mountains of Afghanistan, four SEALs were on a reconnaissance mission when their position was compromised and they came under heavy gunfire from nearly 200 Taliban militia.

As the fighting escalated and each SEAL received numerous wounds, Lt. Michael Murphy exposed himself to enemy fire to call for reinforcements to save his beleaguered team. A joint group of 16 SEALs and Army Night Stalkers rushing to join the battle were killed when their helicopter was shot down before they had a chance to land. The only SEAL of Murphy's team to survive the battle, Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SEAL) Marcus Luttrell, fought and evaded the enemy for several days before he was rescued.

Murphy was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery under fire. President George W. Bush presented the medal to Murphy's parents at the White House last year.

The family members of the fallen viewed the Redwings memorial at the NSW headquarters building and toured some of the local Naval Special Warfare facilities.

"This experience gave us an opportunity to look forward," Ponder said. "Me and my girls have been excited being here."

The next day was filled with events commemorating the anniversary of Operation Redwings. A private celebration was held for Redwings families aboard the USS Midway Museum in downtown San Diego, where Luttrell remembered his brothers-in-arms and spoke about the importance of families.

"We will always remember the guys we lost in combat," Luttrell said. "Also, we must always remember the families. The family members make it all possible for our guys out in the field."

After the Midway tour, the families attended a Major League Baseball game at San Diego's Petco Park. As part of the pregame events, the families stood before the crowd on the first and third baselines as the stadium announcer honored the lost men of Operation Redwings.

The Navy's parachute team, known as the "Leap Frogs," made a precision jump onto the field; four F-18 Hornet fighter jets flew over the stadium, and Luttrell threw the ceremonial first pitch.

"Everybody always remembers the ultimate sacrifice these men gave but sometimes as a family member, I feel that our daily sacrifice has been forgotten," Ponder said. "What the Navy has shown is that we aren't forgotten and we are loved and still a part of this military community."

Those who perished during Operation Redwings are:

• Lt. Michael P. Murphy
• Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class (SEAL) Matthew G. Axelson
• Machinist's Mate 2nd Class (SEAL) Eric S. Patton
• Senior Chief Information Systems Technician (SEAL) Daniel R. Healy
• Quartermaster 2nd Class (SEAL) James Suh,
• Gunner's Mate 2nd Class (SEAL) Danny P. Dietz
• Chief Fire Controlman (SEAL) Jacques J. Fontan
• Lt. Cmdr. Erik S. Kristensen
• Electronics Technician 1st Class (SEAL) Jeffery A. Lucas
• Lt. Michael M. McGreevy Jr.
• Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SEAL) Jeffrey S. Taylor
• Staff Sgt. Shamus O. Goare
• Chief Warrant Officer Corey J. Goodnature
• Sgt. Kip A. Jacoby
• Sgt. 1st Class Marcus V. Muralles
• Maj. Stephen C. Reich
• Sgt. 1st Class Michael L. Russell
• Chief Warrant Officer Chris J. Scherkenbach
• Master Sgt. James W. Ponder III

(Story by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Menzie, Naval Special Warfare Public Affairs.)

Related: Navy SEAL Lt. Michael P. Murphy Awarded Medal of Honor

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