Fleet Commander Orders USS Bataan Underway for Hurricane Response

In this July 2008 file photo, the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) steams in the Atlantic Ocean. Bataan is participating in Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) "Operation Brimstone" off the Atlantic coast. (U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Jessica Pounds.)

On the Home Front:

NORFOLK, Aug. 30, 2008 -- Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, Vice Adm. Mel Williams, Jr., ordered USS Bataan (LHD 5) to get underway Sept. 1, for disaster response if called upon to perform this mission.

"In general, the highest condition of readiness for Navy ships and other capabilities is achieved while underway at sea," said Williams. "Getting USS Bataan underway will provide Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces; Commander, U.S. Joint Forces Command; and Commander, U.S. Northern Command, with highly ready Navy capabilities if needed for support during the 2008 hurricane season."

Bataan's underway period is a short-notice, 2nd Fleet readiness at-sea event.

(Story from U.S. 2nd Fleet Public Affairs.)

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Louisiana Guard Activated to Full Operational Status for Gustav

Members of the Louisiana National Guard’s 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team stage their vehicles next to the Ernest Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Aug. 29, 2008. The soldiers are activated for security missions in support of hurricane operations throughout the state. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael L. Owens, 241st Mobile Public Affairs Detachment.)

Members of the Louisiana National Guard’s 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team stage their vehicles next to the Ernest Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Aug. 29, 2008. The soldiers are activated for security missions in support of hurricane operations throughout the state. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael L. Owens, 241st Mobile Public Affairs Detachment.)

Members of the Louisiana National Guard’s 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team stage their vehicles next to the Ernest Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Aug. 29, 2008. The soldiers are activated for security missions in support of hurricane operations throughout the state. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael L. Owens, 241st Mobile Public Affairs Detachment.)

On the Home Front:

BATON ROUGE, La., Aug. 30, 2008 -- As 1,500 National Guard members arrived in New Orleans yesterday to support the city’s police department and assist in executing civil support missions, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal announced the activation of all available remaining Louisiana National Guard forces to assist with emergency operations in preparation for Hurricane Gustav.

With the newly activated troops coming on board today, the total of Louisiana Guard members activated reaches 7,000.

Gustav, which grew to a Category 3 hurricane overnight, is bearing down on western Cuba today with sustained winds of more than 120 mph, and is expected to make landfall on the U.S. Gulf Coast late Sept. 1 or early Sept. 2.

The Guard troops who arrived in New Orleans yesterday will safeguard homes and businesses during evacuation and instill confidence in the citizens, state Guard officials said.

The state’s adjutant general assured residents of a response to Gustav that’s based on lessons learned three years ago, when back-to-back hurricanes struck the region.

“The Louisiana National Guard is fully prepared for a hurricane disaster and has improved reaction times, communication and equipment resources by learning from hurricanes Katrina and Rita,” Army Maj. Gen. Bennett C. Landreneau said. “Throughout the year, the Louisiana National Guard, in coordination with other state and local agencies has conducted numerous statewide emergency response exercises testing capabilities, and validating plans to improve overall efficiency and reaction time. These coordinated efforts were and continue to be crucial to our current success.”

As state forces in Louisiana have reached a full operational capability status, neighboring states are preparing assets in the event they are needed as well.

The Louisiana National Guard has requested additional aviation assets and personnel through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact -- a mutual-support agreement -- to assist with meeting potential mission requirements, with the Arkansas National Guard responding and moving into place.

Headquarters 1-114th Aviation Battalion of North Little Rock, Ark., is sending 44 personnel to Esler Field in Pineville, La., to fill in for Louisiana’s 1-244th Assault Helicopter Battalion of the 204th Theater Airfield Operations Group, currently deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Other neighboring states also have National Guard forces ready to deploy if additional support is needed, officials said.

(From a Louisiana National Guard news release.)

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Guard Now Better Equipped for Hurricanes

In this photo, Air Force Maj. Gen. William Etter, director of domestic operations for the National Guard Bureau, briefs reporters on the National Guard's preparations for Tropical Storm Gustav, Aug. 29, 2008, at the Federal Emergency Managment Agency in Washington, D.C. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Jon Soucy.)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Aug. 30, 2008 -- Double the amount of available equipment compared to when Hurricane Katrina struck three years ago will strengthen the National Guard’s response to hurricanes along the Gulf Coast, the National Guard Bureau’s director of domestic operations said at Federal Emergency Management Agency news conference here yesterday.

Air Force Maj. Gen. William Etter cited “strong interest” and support from Congress and the Defense Department for the increase in the National Guard’s equipment levels.

In addition to equipment, the general said, about 65,000 National Guard troops are available in the Gulf Coast states as Tropical Storm Gustav approaches for an expected landfall as a Category 3 hurricane Sept. 2. About 400,000 Guard members are available throughout the country, an increase of 10 percent from three years ago.

Along with the personnel and equipment, Etter added, a “great relationship” with U.S. Northern Command and other federal partners “will strengthen our response.”

“Our response will be rapid and effective,” he said.

Etter also strongly encouraged residents in areas that potentially could be affected to follow instructions given by local emergency management officials.

As of today, governors in three states have activated National Guard personnel to respond to Tropical Storm Gustav, including 3,400 in Louisiana, up to 5,000 in Texas, and 3,000 in Alabama.

The Florida National Guard has released most of the 500 troops it activated for Tropical Storm Fay, but a core team will continue to monitor Gustav, as well as Tropical Storm Hanna, over the weekend.

(Story by Air Force Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke, National Guard Bureau.)

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USS San Antonio Begins Maiden Deployment

NORFOLK, Va. (Aug. 28. 2008) The amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) heads to sea as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (IWO ESG) supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Tyler J. Wilson.)

Focus on Defense:

USS SAN ANTONIO, At Sea, Aug. 30, 2008 -- The amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) deployed from its homeport of Naval Station Norfolk Aug. 28 as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG).

San Antonio's departure marks its first deployment since it's commissioning Jan. 14, 2006 and the first deployment of a San Antonio-class amphibious ship.

"It is truly an honor and privilege to be part of LPD 17's maiden deployment," said Cmdr. Kurt Kastner, San Antonio's commanding officer. "When I look back at the accomplishments and effort by the crew getting the first ship in the San Antonio-class warship ready, I am proud and humbled at the same time."

San Antonio provides unique capabilities that have never been incorporated into any previously-deployed ESG.

"The operational flexibility of our strike group is greatly enhanced by San Antonio's capabilities," said Capt. Brian T. Smith, commander, Iwo Jima ESG. "Its multi-functional design supports technological advances in landing craft, aircraft and amphibious vehicles. The ship has a state-of-the-art command and control suite, more than double the storage space of the ships it replaces and advanced survivability features that enhance its ability to operate in the littoral environment."

This deployment is not only the first for San Antonio but the first for many of the ship's Sailors as well.

"It's ironic that my first deployment is the first for the San Antonio also," said Interior Communication's Specialist 3rd Class Thomas Quintavalle. "I've waited for this moment for a long time -- to visit places in the world that I dreamed of seeing as a kid."

The path to getting San Antonio prepared for her maiden voyage was scattered with a variety of technical challenges. The ship's departure from Norfolk is evidence of the dedicated effort of the crew and provides a sense of accomplishment for its Sailors.

"I wanted to help see this ship get underway to show that the blood, sweat and tears from its crew - both past and present - have paid off," said Hull Maintenance Technician 1st Class (SW) Walt Douglas, executive department leading petty officer.

The sense of accomplishment is shared by Smith.

"San Antonio and its Sailors are ready," he said. "The ship demonstrated flawless execution of procedures for getting underway and conducted a highly efficient onload of Marines and their equipment. I fully expect to see the same excellence from San Antonio and its crew throughout deployment."

San Antonio joined the rest of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), which consists of the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7); the dock-landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50); the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72); the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61); all homeported at Norfolk, Va.; the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), homeported at Mayport, Fla.; and the fast attack submarine USS Hartford (SSN 768), homeported at Groton, Conn.

The Iwo Jima ESG with its more than 6,000 Sailors and Marines, deployed Aug. 26-29 for a regularly scheduled deployment to the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO helps set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations.

The strike group will also support the other tenets of the Navy's Maritime Strategy, which include forward presence, deterrence, sea control, power projection, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response. The Maritime Strategy represents a new vision for the 21st century and establishes new capabilities to codify longstanding challenges, while maintaining the focus on enduring missions.

(Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Brian Goodwin, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs.)

Related Article:
Combat Camera: Aboard USS San Antonio; March 13, 2008

More Combat Camera Imagery on THE TENSION

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Coalition Releases Over 11,000 Detainees in Iraq

In this file photo, detainees at the coalition detention facility at Camp Cropper play volleyball in February 2008. (U.S. Department of Defense photo by Spc. Michael V. May.)

Dispatches from the Front:

CAMP CROPPER, Iraq, Aug. 30, 2008 -- Coalition Forces have released more than 11,000 men back to their families and communities. These men, once considered a security threat to Iraqi civilians, as well as Coalition and Iraqi forces, have completed their internment and can go on to lead productive lives.

The release of 11,000 detainees thus far in 2008 surpasses the 8,900 men released in all of 2007. “With the current release tempo, the goal of more than 12,000 releases for 2008 will be reached by mid September,” said Maj Neal Fisher, spokesman for Task Force 134 – Detainee Operations.

During their internment, detainees are given the opportunity to participate in various educational and vocational programs, on a voluntary basis. These programs are designed to give detainees the skills needed to become productive members of Iraqi society. Education classes include basic reading and writing in Arabic and English, mathematics, and civics. In addition to basic education, Islamic discussion classes are available. These classes are led by Iraqi social workers and clerics and focus detainees on developing a better understanding of Islam and the teachings of the Koran.

Vocational courses, such as woodworking, carpentry and brick masonry are offered to provide detainees a skill set they can use upon their release. The skills these men obtain will be used to support and provide for their families as well as help build a stronger Iraq.

“With a re-internment rate of less than one percent, it’s a testament to the success of these programs,” said Fisher. “These men, for whatever reason, engaged in activities that were meant to harm Coalition and Iraqi forces, Iraqi civilians and the rebuilding of Iraq. Now, a large number of these men are returning home educated, and skilled, ready to assist in the rebuilding of a better, stronger, and stable Iraq.”

(From a Multinational Force Iraq news release.)

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US Marines Focus on Transforming Afghan Police

Bloggers' Roundtable:

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2008 -- U.S. Marines in Afghanistan face daunting challenges in legitimizing the Afghan police and turning them into an effective counter-terrorist force, but perseverance and focus have served them well, a Marine officer said Aug. 27.

“Probably the biggest challenge has been the size of our area of operations,” Marine Corps Lt. Col. Richard D. Hall, commander of 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, said during a call with online journalists and military bloggers. “And to answer how we’ve overcome that challenge, I summed it up in one word: Marines.”

Hall’s unit has responsibility for recruiting, training and mentoring the Afghan National Police and turning them into a credible force that the Afghan populace views as honest and capable.

“We want them to become a more proficient, respectable and legitimate force, which is really an extension of the government on the district level,” Hall said. Significant progress has been made on the training mission, but full recognition by Afghan citizens will take time, he added.

On a more specific level, Hall said, the Marines face difficulties recruiting the right blend of people to keep the force geographically balanced.

“We can’t always have the right amount of recruits out of each district, so we have to recruit from other districts,” Hall said. “When they go through the training and come back, those ANP have an expectation that they are going to go back to the district they came from, and sometimes we cannot do that.”

Fielding an appropriate number of coalition and Afghan forces to counter terrorists across a massive territory remains another challenge, Hall explained.

He added that more forces will be coming to extend security zones, as well as to assume control of other districts, which will restrict the enemy’s movement.

Still, he noted, “The solution isn’t going to be so much the numbers of people that you bring in here. … It is the effect on the people that we have in the context of doing our mission, which is, I call it, turning four into 40.

“The bottom line is, we want to give these people liberty,” he continued. “To create conditions where they can take responsibility of their own affairs and provide for their own future.”

(Story by Navy Seaman William Selby, New Media directorate of the Defense Media Activity.)

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3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment Heads for Iraq

Focus on Defense:

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif., Aug. 29, 2008 -- Marines and sailors from 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, departed the Combat Center Aug. 26 and 27 on a seven-month deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

More than 1,000 Marines and sailors left the Unit Marshalling Area in the early and mid-morning hours of both days to the waves and tears of their families and loved ones.

1st Lt. Evan Bradley, executive officer of Weapons Company, said the battalion has the initial mission of helping with security and training local police forces.

“We’re trying to transition to operational over watch,” explained Bradley, a native of Blue Island, Ill. Bradley added that the long-term goal of the deployment is to slowly turn more control over to the local government and civilian population.

“Basically we’re going to let the [Iraqi security forces] take control,” said Bradley. “We’re going to stick by their side, but we want the Iraqi face to be on everything happening.”

Bradley said he was confident his Marines and sailors were ready to meet the mission head on after a successful Mojave Viper.

Bradley also said even though the pre-deployment training went well for 3/7, the battalion would continue to receive training on counter-insurgency, local customs and languages while on their way to Iraq.

“We’re going to continue educating them as we go over,” said Bradley. “We’ll teach them all the things that will combine to make us win.”

While families also expressed their belief that 3/7 was well-trained and ready to bring the fight to the enemy, many admitted it was hard to see their Marines and sailors go.

Amanda Bennett, wife of Staff Sgt. Verice Bennett, platoon sergeant, India Company, said she dealt with her husband’s previous deployments, which included participation in Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom, by concentrating on work and obtaining her bachelor’s degree. However, Bennett a native of Seattle, confessed this deployment was a little harder due to the presence of their son, Sekye.

“It doesn’t get any easier, and kids make it sadder,” said Bennett, who is due to give birth to the couple’s second child in January, two months before 3/7 is scheduled to return home.

The family of Lance Cpl. Joseph Michael Peregrina, a rifleman with Kilo Company, were also saddened by the departure of their loved one, but said they were proud of Peregrina and happy to see him fulfilling a lifetime goal.

“He always had the passion to become a Marine,” said Jonette Tusques, a family friend who helped raise Peregrina. “Every conversation had Marines in it.”

Lori Rogors, 3/7’s family readiness officer, said the families will continue to receive news and updates about their Marines and sailors through the battalion’s newsletter.

Rogers, a native of Victoria, Texas, said families and not just spouses will continue to receive the knowledge and resources needed to guide them through the deployment until the Marines and sailors of 3/7 arrive home in early Spring.

(Story by Lance Cpl. Zachary J. Nola, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines.)

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Pentagon: Agencies Shift into High Gear as Gustav Looms

TRACKING GUSTAV - A GOES-12 infrared satellite image provided by the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Monterey, Calif., showing the status of Tropical Storm Gustav at approximately 11 a.m. EDT in the Caribbean Sea, Aug. 29, 2008. Gustav is a tropical storm on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane scale, with maximum sustained winds near 65 mph and higher gusts. (U.S. Navy photo.)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2008 -- Tropical Storm Gustav is expected to intensify over the weekend and strike the U.S. Gulf Coast as a Category 3 hurricane by the morning of Sept. 2, Federal Emergency Management Agency officials said today.

Local, state and federal agencies are coordinating responses now, well in advance of the approach of the storm, officials said at a FEMA news conference.

Retired Coast Guard Vice Adm. Harvey E. Johnson Jr., the FEMA deputy, said the agency is expecting tropical-storm-force winds to reach the United States on Sept. 1. He said he expects the hurricane to hit the coast the following morning with a 15-to-30-foot storm surge.

“It’ll be the largest storm to approach the Gulf Coast and the United States since Hurricane Katrina in 2005,” he said. But, he added, there is a huge difference between the levels of preparedness between the 2005 hurricane season and today.

“We just finished a two-hour video teleconference … with state and local officials to talk about the preparations we have in place in advance of Hurricane Gustav,” he said. “There have been phenomenal improvements at the local level, the state level and the federal level that we will benefit from.”

All levels of government have made changes as a result of the lessons learned from Hurricane Katrina. “We’re all working hand in hand, and have been,” Johnson said.

All potentially affected states will begin evacuations tomorrow, he said, with some states doing medical evacuations today. “Contraflows” – the reversal of highway lanes to help evacuation – will begin on the morning of Aug. 31. “All states are talking to each other, planning together, sharing resources and working together as a team,” Johnson said.

In the Gulf States, 65,000 National Guard troops are standing by to respond to the hurricane. Officials said the Guardsmen have much better and much more equipment than they did during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

The Army Corps of Engineers already is working with FEMA to issue contracts for such things as debris management, water and temporary power for critical facilities. The Corps als is deploying planning response teams and a battalion that can handle massive power-generation needs.

The Corps also is responsible for flood protection in and around New Orleans.

“Since Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, the New Orleans Hurricane Damage Reduction System is stronger than it was pre-Katrina,” said Corps spokesman Mike Irwin during the news conference. Many flood walls have been reinforced, and emergency measures are in place should a levee fail. Still, other levees and flood protection projects are not yet completed.

U.S. Northern Command is closely monitoring the storm and Tropical Storm Hanna, said Army Maj. Gen. Richard Rowe, the command’s operations director. “We will continue to respond for Department of Defense support in anticipation of landfall,” the general said during the news conference.

The command has activated four defense coordinating elements at the regional FEMA headquarters. The command provides unique DoD capabilities for disaster response. Rowe said three active-duty military installations have been designated as FEMA logistics points: Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.; Columbus Air Force Base, Miss.; and the Naval Air Station at Meridian, Miss.

The 10th Mountain Division’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team in Fort Drum, N.Y., is the quick-reaction force for the homeland. “They are provided with situational awareness and provided with prepare-to-deploy orders if needed,” Rowe said.

In addition, Fleet Forces Command in Norfolk, Va., has given direction to three amphibious ships -- the USS Bataan, the USS Nassau and the USS Ponce -- to be prepared to sortie if needed. The command also has at its disposal additional communications, engineering, and aviation units.

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

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Head of Joint Chiefs Awards HS2 Sailor Navy/Marine Corps Medal

In this photo, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen presents Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 1st Class Jesse P. Hubble, from San Diego, Calif., assigned to the "Golden Falcons" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 2, with the Navy and Marine Corps Medal in the hangar bay of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Hubble received the medal for his heroism in the rescue of 7 Sailors from a helicopter that ditched in the ocean while the Lincoln Strike Group was operating off the coast of Southern California in November 2007. Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations supporting Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom as well as maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ronald Dallatorre.)

Face of Defense:

NORTH ARABIAN SEA, Aug. 29, 2008 -- Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen presented the Navy/Marine Corps Medal to Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 1st Class (AW) Jesse P. Hubble aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Aug. 27.

Hubble, a member of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 2, was awarded the medal for rescuing seven crewmembers from a crash of a Navy HH-60H helicopter off the coast of Southern California Nov. 9, 2007, while Hubble was embarked during Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX).

“I’m sure he’d say he was just doing his job,” said Mullen. “But, he was more than instrumental in saving seven lives. He was the calm in the eye of the storm. It’s one thing to have the skills, but it’s quite another to execute them.”

According to the award citation, Hubble launched in Hunter 610 to conduct a six-and-a-half hour range night Combat Search and Rescue exercise. While returning to Lincoln, wingman Hunter 616 experienced a controllability failure and ditched at sea. Before being directed to do so, Hubble immediately donned his rescue gear and prepared for water entry. He unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own personal safety entered the low-light, no-moon, open ocean to rescue the seven exhausted survivors.

“Relying on his special training, stamina and courage, he remained in 63-degree water for 45 minutes until all seven survivors were safely hoisted aboard the rescue helicopter. By his courageous and prompt actions in the face of great personal risk, Hubble prevented the loss of seven lives,” the citation read.

The San Diego native has been an AW for 10 years and said he really enjoys what he does.

“When I am up in the sky, I own the back of the helicopter,” he said. “We train everyday, physically and mentally, for any situation that might happen. We prepare for the worst case scenario, and that night was one of the worst. It all happened so fast. You just do what you have to do. I am glad everyone made it out alive.”

Hubble said the award was completely unexpected.

“I never expected any recognition like this,” he said. “It’s a big shock. I have never seen anyone get this award and I never though I’d have something this high on my chest. I really appreciate it. It’s a big day for me.”

(Story by By MC2 Arianne A. Anderson, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs.)

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Troops Nab Terror Suspects in Iraq’s Hamrin Mountains

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2008 -- Coalition forces detained eight suspected terrorists yesterday and today as they continued to run down the al-Qaida in Iraq network, especially in the Hamrin Mountains region, where they detained four wanted men, military officials reported.

One of the wanted men, captured yesterday near Qara Tappa with one alleged associate, is believed to be a senior advisor for al-Qaida in Iraq operations around the Hamrin Mountains. Three other wanted men in the region were captured in an operation today, along with one additional suspect.

One of the wanted men allegedly operates an attack cell that also provides security for terrorist operations, officials said. Two others reportedly are involved in smuggling, attacks on coalition forces and facilitating female suicide bombers.

South of Baghdad near Mahmudiyah, a man already in coalition custody turned in an alleged associate of a senior al-Qaida in Iraq leader today. The alleged associate and one other suspected terrorist were detained in the operation.

Coalition forces killed an enemy fighter in Tikrit during a daytime operation yesterday targeting associates of al-Qaida leaders in central Iraq.

Coalition forces targeted a facilitator involved with providing bomb triggers for several attack cells in the Tigris River Valley bombing network. As they attempted to apprehend the wanted man, he rushed toward the security element and grabbed one soldier's rifle. Responding to the hostile threat, coalition forces engaged and killed the man.

In other operations yesterday:

• Iraqi soldiers seized numerous weapons during a search operation in the Mansour district of Baghdad. The munitions included 100 AK 47 assault rifles, four Seminov rifles, an SKS rifle and four pistols. Later, Iraqi National Police seized three rocket-propelled grenade warheads, five 107 mm rockets and two 122 mm mortar rounds in the New Baghdad area.

• A local resident brought six mortar rounds to an entry control point north of Baghdad. Soldiers serving with the 25th Infantry Division’s Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, called in an explosive ordnance disposal team to assess the munitions. The EOD team identified the munitions as 120 mm high-explosive mortar rounds.

• Quick-reaction force soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 153rd Infantry Battalion, found a weapons cache in Baghdad’s West Rashid district. The cache consisted of 24 124 mm rounds without fuses. An EOD team conducted a controlled detonation and destroyed the munitions.

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

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Troops in Afghanistan Kill, Capture Enemy Fighters

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2008 -- Afghan and coalition forces killed more than two dozen militants and detained two others during two operations in Afghanistan yesterday, military officials reported.

Almost a dozen militants were killed and two were detained during a coalition forces operation to disrupt militant activities in Paktika province.

Coalition forces searched compounds in the Bermel district, targeting an individual affiliated with militant leaders responsible for the movement of foreign fighters from Pakistan into Afghanistan. Militants engaged coalition forces during their search of the compounds. The forces responded with small-arms fire, killing the militants.

In the other operation, Afghan and coalition forces killed more than a dozen militants after a coalition base in Shaheed Hasas district, Oruzgan province, was attacked.

Militants simultaneously attacked the base and checkpoints with mortars from multiple firing positions and with small-arms fire, machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades, resulting in the death of two Afghan security guards. The joint force responded with small-arms fire, mortar and close-air support, killing the militants.

In other Afghanistan news, three detainees being held at the Bagram Theater Internment Facility were released early to the Afghan government yesterday for Ramadan.

The three individuals were scheduled for release at a later date, but this process was expedited to reunite them with their families prior to the holy days, officials said. As part of a reconciliation program called Program Takhim e Sol, they agreed not to take up arms and also swore allegiance to the government of Afghanistan.

Their release was an initiative of the United States military, the Afghan government and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

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

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Support Crosses State Lines as National Guard Preps for Gustav

In this file photo, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Bill Smith (left) practices aligning a satellite with the help of Air Force Staff Sgt. Scott Roach. The men are members of the Arkansas Air Guard's 154th Weather Flight, which provided weather support to the Arkansas Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 114th Security and Support, during recent annual training. National Guard members from various states are preparing for Tropical Storm Gustav, expected to make landfall on the U.S. Gulf Coast as a Category 3 hurricane on Sept. 2, 2008. (U.S. Army photo by 2nd Lt. Theresa L. Walker, 119th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment.)

On the Home Front:

ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 29, 2008 -- Through Emergency Management Assistance Compacts, National Guard members from around the country are signing up to support states in the path of Tropical Storm Gustav.

“EMAC provides a responsive and straightforward system for the National Guard in unaffected states to send lifesaving capabilities, such as personnel and equipment, to help in affected states,” Rick Breitenfeldt, a public affairs officer at the National Guard Bureau, explained.

Approved by Congress in 1996, EMAC is a mutual aid partnership agreement among the 54 states and territories that allows state-to-state assistance during governor-declared or federally declared emergencies.

“EMAC is about governors helping fellow governors in time of need,” Breitenfeldt said.

In 2005, EMAC deployed more than 65,000 personnel to the affected states after hurricanes Katrina and Rita. “That was the largest deployment of state-to-state aid in history and stands as a testament to EMAC’s effectiveness and efficiency,” Breitenfeldt said.

So far this year, the Louisiana National Guard has requested 20 aircraft from eight states, because their UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and about 360 soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 244th Aviation Regiment, are currently deployed to Iraq, said Army Sgt. First Class Melaine Rowton with the Louisiana National Guard.

During Hurricane Katrina three years ago, the battalion rescued about 16,000 people in the area.

The 1st Battalion, 114th Security and Support, of the 77th Aviation Brigade based at Camp Joseph T. Robinson in North Little Rock, Ark., will deploy more than 40 soldiers to Pineville, La. The group also will include five Air National Guard members from the 154th Weather Flight at Little Rock Air Force Base, according to a news release from the Arkansas National Guard.

The 114th will provide airspace management and command and control of all aviation assets supporting the relief effort if required. The 154th will support the 114th with weather briefings and forecasts as well as providing resource protection for the airfield.

In preparation for another potential mission, the Fort Chaffee Maneuver Training Center near Fort Smith, Ark., has identified temporary emergency sheltering for up to 4,000 evacuees, the Arkansas Guard announced.

With the support of federal, state and emergency responders, Fort Chaffee's role potentially would include evacuee reception and accountability, housing and shelter, subsistence, medical care, transportation, information management and public safety, along with command and control of all operations through the establishment of an emergency operations center.

According to the Arkansas Guard, the state has a detailed operations plan in place to support all operations, many of which were either developed or improved through the lessons learned with Hurricane Katrina, when more than 10,000 evacuees were processed through the post.

In Texas, the governor has requested aeromedical support. The 137th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron from Oklahoma City, Okla., will provide five crew members, who will stage at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, and transport special-needs personnel from communities threatened by the storm. About 30 aeromedical crewmembers from the 166th AES in New Castle, Del., also will depart today for Texas.

"This is the right thing to do. Our men and women are highly trained for these tasks, and our Delaware National Guard troops are ready to help if American lives are at risk and our assistance is called upon," Army Maj. Gen. Frank Vavala, adjutant general of the Delaware National Guard, said.

The Indiana National Guard also has been alerted for possible duty in the Gulf Coast region. The 38th Sustainment Brigade from Kokomo, Ind., and Headquarters, 38th Infantry Division from Indianapolis may be activated for command and control and other rapid-response operations, Army Lt. Col. Deedra Thombleson, the state public affairs officer, said.

(Story by Air Force Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke, National Guard Bureau.)

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US Air Force Continues to Deliver Relief to Georgia

News in Balance:

CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C., Aug. 29, 2008 -- Airmen from bases throughout Air Mobility Command and the Air Force have been delivering needed supplies since Aug. 13 to individuals displaced by recent fighting in the Republic of Georgia.

Since the start of the Russia-Republic of Georgia conflict Aug. 8, Airmen have delivered more than 428 tons of needed supplies to people displaced by the fighting, with more than 350 tons of items palletized by members of the 437th Aerial Port Squadron and shipped from Charleston Air Force Base.

Many bases throughout AMC have participated in the humanitarian missions helping deliver cots, blankets, Meals Ready to Eat and medical supplies to help those in need.

To get the supplies to Germany, bases across the command load C-5 Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster III aircraft as crews prepare for transatlantic flights. From Germany the items are prepared for loading onto C-130 Hercules aircraft and then flown to Georgia. Supplies are also shipped in from other areas in Europe to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, to be flown to those in need.

"We do a lot of humanitarian relief missions, but this is definitely worthwhile what the C-5 is doing in delivering (these items)," said Maj. Changkun Moon, a 337th Airlift Squadron C-5 pilot from Westover Air Reserve Base, Mass.

While the Air Force initially delivered most of the relief supplies, Airmen are currently working with Soldiers to prepare cargo for flights into Georgia. At Ramstein AB, cargo from all U.S. services is processed and prepared for shipment by both Air Force and Army members.

During a recent mission, a Soldier on the ramp saw the importance of sending blankets and food to help the Georgians stay as comfortable as possible.

"We are trying to help as many people as we can by giving them what they need," said Army Spc. Chris Cahoon a 39th Transportation Battalion transportation management coordinator at Ramstein AB.

Once items are ready for shipment, pallets are loaded on C-130s for their final destination in Georgia.

While at least two C-17s have transported supplies to Georgia's capital of Tbilisi, due to its short distance to Georgia, C-130s from Ramstein have delivered the majority of the items.

Capt. Kevin Graham, 37th Airlift Squadron, Ramstein AB C-130 pilot, who piloted the second C-130 flight to Georgia, saw how the "good of the Air Force capability is being used to help the people of Georgia."

"We are bringing the supplies they need to help survive and save lives over there," he said. "But I treat it as any normal mission."

(Story by Staff Sgt. Jennifer Arredondo, 437th Airlift Wing Public Affairs.)

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Living History: Operation Southern Watch

In this photo, an F-15 Eagle takes off during Operation Southern Watch, which was a major operation in Southwest Asia from 1992-2002. U.S. officials ended an era with the inactivation of the 363rd Air Expeditionary Wing. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Sean M. Worrell.)

Living History:

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2008 -- On Aug. 26, 1992, the United States launched Operation Southern Watch to enforce United Nations sanctions against Iraq. U.S. Air Force aircraft began patrolling a no-fly zone south of the 33rd parallel in Iraq and monitored compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 687, 688 and 949 to provide protection to Shiite Muslims living there and to discourage any renewed Iraqi military activity against Kuwait or Saudi Arabia.

With the president's announcement, U.S. Central Command activated Joint Task Force Southwest Asia, a command and control unit for coalition forces monitoring the no-fly zone. The first Southern Watch sortie was flown Aug. 27, 1992.

Although Iraq challenged the no-fly zone several times, equipment and personnel were relatively stable until October 1994, when Iraq began troop movements south towards Kuwait, prompting U.S. and coalition forces to react with an intensification of forces called Vigilant Warrior. There were no major incidents to coalition aircraft. However in 2001, American and British aircraft launched attacks against communications and command centers in Iraq. After that time, incidents of airstrikes against the coalition aircraft occurred on a more frequent basis.

From August 1992 to 2001, coalition pilots had flown more than 153,000 missions over Southern Iraq. The operation was shut down when Operation Iraqi Freedom began. By the end, the United States and the United Kingdom provided about 150 aircraft and 6,000 servicemembers to support the operation.

(From a story that appeared on AF.mil.)

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Florida National Guard Preps for Potential Hurricane Relief Mission

In this photo, members of the 2nd Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, make their way past a makeshift tow truck in a high-water vehicle as they search flooded roads and properties Aug. 22, 2008, in search of people who need assistance or evacuation in Steen, Fla., in the wake of Tropical Storm Fay. The Florida National Guard continues to assist civilian agencies with nearly 500 soldiers and airmen supporting logistical operations and high-water vehicle rescue across central and northern Florida, and is preparing for more work as Tropical Storm Gustav zeroes in on the U.S. Gulf Coast. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Hillegass, 107th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment.)

On the Home Front:

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla., Aug. 29, 2008 -- As central and northern Florida communities recover from Tropical Storm Fay's flood waters, Florida’s Department of Military Affairs and the state’s National Guard are refitting and shifting focus to the potential effects of other storms.

Florida National Guard leaders returned to the Joint Force Headquarters in St. Augustine on Aug. 25 from the state emergency operations center in Tallahassee expecting another weather threat.

While most of the 500 Guard members activated to help during Tropical Storm Fay had returned to their civilian jobs, the Florida National Guard core emergency support team continued to monitor weather conditions in "Hurricane Alley."

With forecasters eyeing two Atlantic storms -- Tropical Storm Gustav and Tropical Storm Hanna -- as the Labor Day weekend approaches, the possibility of another activation of the Florida National Guard is becoming more probable, Guard leaders said. Gustav is expected to make landfall on the U.S. Gulf Coast as a Category 3 hurricane early Sept. 2.

"We are just entering the historically active part of hurricane season," said Army Maj. Gen. Douglas Burnett, adjutant general of Florida. "Although Tropical Storm Fay did not produce damaging high-speed winds that a Category 3 or 4 [hurricane] would have, the resulting flood waters required a significant state response that was a very good tune-up for our emergency response team.

"The public got to see the National Guard at work -- Guard-members and vehicles moving from armories to affected communities, providing assistance to people in distress," he said.

The Guard continuously reviews its mix of personnel to ensure the right skills are placed at the right location, along with the right number of troops to do the tasks, he explained. These "after-action" assessments ensure the troops not needed are released from state active duty so they can return to their families, jobs and educational institutions.

"We are able meet our mission requirements by preparing sufficient numbers of Guardsmen to meet any anticipated weather event," Burnett said. "We have a great deal of recent experience and know that when one weather event has passed, we could have another on the horizon. It is critical to our long term success to have enough capable people available who are also rested and motivated."

Florida Gov. Charlie Crist has ensured that the Florida National Guard and its leaders are included in all executive-level planning for emergencies. For Tropical Storm Fay, he declared a state of emergency for Florida, signing an executive order three days before the storm made landfall.

"The reason we do that is to be able to cooperate with state agencies and local authorities," Crist said Aug. 17, during his initial news conference for Tropical Storm Fay.

Guard leaders say they’re committed to one primary task: ensuring the Florida National Guard adequately supports agencies directly responsible for taking care of Florida citizens. To accomplish this mission, the Florida National Guard has more than 9,000 soldiers and airmen available who can respond to various emergencies in Florida, including efforts to deter terrorist-related activities.

"The Guard has continuous contact and coordination with the Florida Division of Emergency Management in Tallahassee, and our joint emergency operations center and planning cells ensure the capability to rapidly build-up personnel and equipment if needed," Army Lt. Col. Ron Tittle, the Guard's chief spokesman, said. "We have extensive experience in responding to emergencies."

Florida National Guard soldiers and airmen are trained and equipped for a wide range of life support, security and public safety missions, he said.

Additional personnel and equipment can be mobilized quickly from other states if needed. The Florida National Guard can also request additional personnel and resources from other states through the National Guard Bureau, as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, Tittle explained.

(From a story by Jon Myatt, Florida Department of Military Affairs.)

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Louisiana Guard Gears Up for Gustav

Army Sgt. Michael Slayter of Winnfield, La., tosses a hose to Army Spc. Joseph P. Gauthier of Natchitoches, La. The Louisiana National Guard soldiers are members of Detachment 1, A Company, 199th Leadership Brigade Support Battalion, 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, in Colfax, La. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Rebekah L. Malone, 225th Engineer Brigade.)

Military vehicles are staged and ready to bring clean water in the event that water becomes scarce after Gustav, expected to be a Category 3 hurricane, makes landfall. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Nathaniel P. Orphey, 3rd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment.)

The Coast Guard has committed boats if they’re needed after Tropical Storm Gustav makes landfall. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Nathaniel P. Orphey, 3rd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment.)

Army Spc. Joseph P. Gauthier of Natchitoches, La., member of the Louisiana National Guard’s Detachment 1, A Company, 199th Leadership Brigade Support Battalion, 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, in Colfax, La., gives the thumbs-up sign to soldiers working to fill a palletized load system water hippo. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Rebekah L. Malone, 225th Engineer Brigade.)

On the Home Front:

BATON ROUGE, La., Aug. 29, 2008 -- As Tropical Storm Gustav gains strength and approaches the Gulf Coast, about 3,000 Louisiana citizen-soldiers and -airmen have been activated in support of emergency operations and are prepared to support civil missions and assist with various needs and emergencies expected to arise across the state.

"Our soldiers and airmen are staged and set to deploy to our coastal parishes without hesitation,” Army Maj. Gen. Bennett Landreneau, adjutant general for the Louisiana National Guard, said. “Engineer and communications teams are reporting to coastal parishes and are set to assist our citizens and local parish emergency responders. Our security forces are deploying to ensure safety and security of homes and personnel. We are confident in our plans and ability to execute those plans on a moment’s notice.”

Louisiana Guard search-and-rescue assets are preparing for deployment to potential impact areas. Soldiers and airmen also are pre-positioning to support shelter security missions across the state, and teams are ready to support “contraflow” highway lane-reversal missions in coordination with the Louisiana State Police.

Louisiana National Guard security forces are preparing for deployment to potential impact areas, including deployment to New Orleans in support of the city’s evacuation plan. The Guard is requesting additional helicopter assets with Emergency Management Assistance Compact states in preparation for potential search-and-rescue missions.

Soldiers of the Lake Charles-based 3rd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment, 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, began the initial alert preparations for the possible landfall of Hurricane Gustav. The battalion, which consists of soldiers from all over southwestern Louisiana, has prepared vehicles and equipment for the deployment to New Orleans or any other area that may be affected.

“We’re ready to go wherever we need to,” said Lake Charles native Army 1st Sgt. Gary Burchfield of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3-156th Infantry Battalion.

The 256th IBCT’s 199th Leadership Brigade Support Battalion located in Alexandria, La., sent 2,000 gallons of water to Colfax, La., in preparation for support missions. This potentially life-saving water will be distributed to citizens if the need arises.

Additionally, 160 soldiers from the 528th and the 527th Engineer Battalions in Ruston, La., have been directed to various security missions in the Jefferson Parish area and will be assigned to the Clearview evacuation site.

Two three-man engineer assessment teams from the 1023rd Engineer Company are on stand-by for possible missions in Ascension, St. James and St. Charles parishes. “The primary function of these teams will be damage assessment,” Army Maj. Charles A. Hudson of West Monroe, administrative officer with the 528th, said.

About 30 soldiers from the Headquarters Support Company in Monroe will assist the Louisiana State Police Department’s Troop A in Baton Rouge and Troop F in Monroe in traffic-control missions as the storm closes in on the coast. Six three-man boat teams from the 830th and 832nd Concrete and Asphalt Companies in Monroe have been placed on stand-by for possible damage assessment and search-and-rescue missions in potentially devastated areas.

The National Guard has also mobilized more than 100 members to act as bus drivers and provide transportation for evacuees and security to evacuation shelters throughout the state as needed.

Airmen have been activated to support operations and satellite communication in Terrebonne, Lafourche, Jefferson, Plaquemines, Saint Bernard, and Orleans parishes to assist in first-responder ground communications. Additional teams are ready to deploy to all other areas along the coast the storm may affect.As Tropical Storm Gustav gains strength and approaches the Gulf Coast, about 3,000 Louisiana citizen-soldiers and -airmen have been activated in support of emergency operations and are prepared to support civil missions and assist with various needs and emergencies expected to arise across the state.

"Our soldiers and airmen are staged and set to deploy to our coastal parishes without hesitation,” Army Maj. Gen. Bennett Landreneau, adjutant general for the Louisiana National Guard, said. “Engineer and communications teams are reporting to coastal parishes and are set to assist our citizens and local parish emergency responders. Our security forces are deploying to ensure safety and security of homes and personnel. We are confident in our plans and ability to execute those plans on a moment’s notice.”

Louisiana Guard search-and-rescue assets are preparing for deployment to potential impact areas. Soldiers and airmen also are pre-positioning to support shelter security missions across the state, and teams are ready to support “contraflow” highway lane-reversal missions in coordination with the Louisiana State Police.

Louisiana National Guard security forces are preparing for deployment to potential impact areas, including deployment to New Orleans in support of the city’s evacuation plan. The Guard is requesting additional helicopter assets with Emergency Management Assistance Compact states in preparation for potential search-and-rescue missions.

Soldiers of the Lake Charles-based 3rd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment, 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, began the initial alert preparations for the possible landfall of Hurricane Gustav. The battalion, which consists of soldiers from all over southwestern Louisiana, has prepared vehicles and equipment for the deployment to New Orleans or any other area that may be affected.

“We’re ready to go wherever we need to,” said Lake Charles native Army 1st Sgt. Gary Burchfield of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3-156th Infantry Battalion.

The 256th IBCT’s 199th Leadership Brigade Support Battalion located in Alexandria, La., sent 2,000 gallons of water to Colfax, La., in preparation for support missions. This potentially life-saving water will be distributed to citizens if the need arises.

Additionally, 160 soldiers from the 528th and the 527th Engineer Battalions in Ruston, La., have been directed to various security missions in the Jefferson Parish area and will be assigned to the Clearview evacuation site.

Two three-man engineer assessment teams from the 1023rd Engineer Company are on stand-by for possible missions in Ascension, St. James and St. Charles parishes. “The primary function of these teams will be damage assessment,” Army Maj. Charles A. Hudson of West Monroe, administrative officer with the 528th, said.

About 30 soldiers from the Headquarters Support Company in Monroe will assist the Louisiana State Police Department’s Troop A in Baton Rouge and Troop F in Monroe in traffic-control missions as the storm closes in on the coast. Six three-man boat teams from the 830th and 832nd Concrete and Asphalt Companies in Monroe have been placed on stand-by for possible damage assessment and search-and-rescue missions in potentially devastated areas.

The National Guard has also mobilized more than 100 members to act as bus drivers and provide transportation for evacuees and security to evacuation shelters throughout the state as needed.

Airmen have been activated to support operations and satellite communication in Terrebonne, Lafourche, Jefferson, Plaquemines, Saint Bernard, and Orleans parishes to assist in first-responder ground communications. Additional teams are ready to deploy to all other areas along the coast the storm may affect.

Separately, the Louisiana National Guard has requested 20 aircraft from eight states, in an apparent response to Louisiana's 20 UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters being in Iraq. National Guards in the 54 states and territories have mutual-aid agreements in place to send troops and equipment to other states during disasters. Through such agreements, more than 50,000 Guard members converged on the region following
Hurricane Katrina.

The Louisiana Army National Guard's 1/244th Air Assault Helicopter Battalion deployed to Iraq this summer, taking the Black Hawk fleet and about 360 soldiers. The battalion was based at the New Orleans Lakefront Airport during Katrina and rescued as many as 16,000 people from the area. The battalion is now based in Hammond, La., from which the Louisiana Guard plans to manage its aviation response to storms.

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal also ordered the Louisiana National Guard to be ready to deploy more than 1,500 Guardsmen to New Orleans as early as tomorrow to assist in securing the city as citizens begin to evacuate their homes.

Gustav, currently a tropical storm, is expected to make landfall as a Category 3 hurricane the morning of Sept. 2 along the Vermillion Bay area, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

(From a Louisiana National Guard news release.)

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