US Airpower Summary; Oct. 11, 2008: B-1Bs Engage Anti-Afghan Forces

An Air Force B-1B Lancer flies a mission over Afghanistan. The B-1B can rapidly deliver massive quantities of precision and non-precision weapons against any adversary, anywhere in the world, at any time. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Lance Cheung.)

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Oct. 11, 2008 -- Coalition airpower integrated with Coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations Oct. 10, according to combined air and space operations center officials here.

In Afghanistan, an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle dropped a guided bomb unit-12 onto anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Shkin. The on-scene joint terminal attack controller confirmed the mission successful.

In the vicinity of Oruzgan, an Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces. The mission was declared successful by a JTAC.

Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs performed a show of force to deter insurgent activities near Gardez. A JTAC reported the mission successful.

In total, 47 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Fifteen Air Force and coalition intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions during operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 44 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided over watch for reconstruction activities and helped deter and disrupt terrorist activities.

Twenty-eight Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions during operations in Iraq. Additionally, three Air Force and coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

Air Force C-130 Hurcules' and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.

Approximately 126 airlift sorties were flown, 724 tons of cargo delivered, and 3,063 passengers were transported. This included approximately 130,200 pounds of troop resupply airdropped in Afghanistan.

Coalition C-130 crews flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.

On Oct. 9, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 55 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.7 million pounds of fuel to 286 receiving aircraft.

(From a U.S. Air Force news release.)

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US Marines in Afghanistan Fight With 'ACE in the Hole'

In this file photo, an AH-1W Super Cobra assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 takes off from the Camp Bastion flight line to provide support to the Marines of Task Force 2d Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Afghanistan, Sept. 30. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Steve Cushman.)

In this file photo, an AH-1W Super Cobra assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 waits on the Camp Bastion flight line to provide support to the Marines of Task Force 2d Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Afghanistan, Sept. 30. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Steve Cushman.)

An AH-1W Super Cobra from Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 waits on the Camp Bastion flight line to provide support to the Marines of Task Force 2d Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Afghanistan, Sept. 30. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Steve Cushman.)

Ordnance Marines and airframe mechanics wait for an AH-1W Super Cobra to land with the purpose of re-arming and preparing the helicopter for its next mission at the Camp Bastion flight line, Sept. 30. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Steve Cushman.)

A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter lands at the Camp Bastion flight line, Aug. 14. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Steve Cushman.)

Two CH-53E Super Stallions fly through the skies of Afghanistan, as part of the aviation combat element augmenting the Marines and sailors of Task Force 2/7 currently serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Capt. Andrew S. Roberson.)

Dispatches from the Front:

CAMP BARBER, Afghanistan, Oct. 11, 2008 -- CAMP BARBER, Afghanistan – A Marine company engaged in battle against insurgent forces approach a fortified position. Minutes after a radio call is made for more fire support, the Marines hear the sound of rotors. An attack helicopter bursts through the clouds and swoops in to destroy the enemy.

This air support has given the Marines more firepower to seek out and destroy the insurgent threat they face here in Afghanistan.

Until now, rotary wing air support was sporadic at best for the Marines of Task Force 2d Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Afghanistan, which deployed to Afghanistan in April to support Operation Enduring Freedom.

The task force was recently augmented by four CH-53E “Super Stallion” and AH-1W “Super Cobra” helicopters. The aviation combat element, which deployed here from Iraq’s Al Anbar Province to provide direct support for TF 2/7, reinforces the battalion with reliable re-supply and close air support that the battalion didn’t have throughout the first half of their deployment.

“Before these helicopter assets were supporting the battalion, there was no direct rotary wing support… we were using joint support from the British,” said Capt. James R. Meyer, air officer and Clarksville, Va., native. “We were competing with all of the other units in the area of operations (AO). There were not enough helicopter assets in the AO, but now we have the air support we need to complete our mission.”

A vital asset to mission success, the aviation combat element proved to be the only thing missing. To assist the Marines in their mission to conduct counterinsurgency operations with a focus on training and mentoring of the Afghan National Police, the task force is supported by various attachments that include such reinforcements as a combat engineers platoon, a shock trauma platoon, a radio battalion unit, reconnaissance Marines, DynCorp civilian contractors, and personnel who specialize in civil military operations.

In addition to providing the Marines close air support to wreak havoc upon the enemy, aviation support is needed to replenish the food and ammunition the Marines expend in combat.

The Super Stallions, which are attached to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, Calif., provide transportation for the Marines and transport supplies that allow TF 2/7 to carry out its mission to conduct full spectrum operations. Outside of transporting the heaviest of Marine equipment, like the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles the Marines have relied upon for protection against IEDs (improvised explosive devices), these are heavy-lift helicopters that primarily deliver such items as food, water, mail and combat gear.

“The most important cargo the 53’s carry are the Marines. With these helicopters, we’re able to move the Marines between FOBs (forward operating bases) while keeping them off the roads,” Capt. Meyer said. “We also have insert and extract capabilities to areas that are inaccessible by road.”

ACE: Air Combat Element

As the “Heavy Haulers” deliver destructive payloads of bullets, grenades and Marines, the Super Cobras provide direct security. They also serve as an “ACE in the hole” for the Marines, when needed.

“It’s well known among the enemy, with good reason, to never fire at the skinny grey helicopters,” said Maj. Mike M. Richman, Detachment B officer-in-charge of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 (HML/A-269) and North Lake, Wisc., native. “By being on station, we impede the enemy’s sanctuary and freedom of movement. They can’t move into position to fire at the Marines on the ground, because they know if we can see them, we’ll kill them.”

The “Gunrunners,” which are attached to HMLA-269 at MCAS New River, N.C., focus on providing three areas of support for the battalion. In addition to providing close air support for the Marines on the ground, they also escort the Super Stallions into possible or known hostile areas. Because of danger on the roads, the Super Cobras escort convoys on the dangerous treks throughout Afghanistan’s rugged terrain.

“There’s one thing our helicopters are built for, and it’s not to carry things,” Maj. Richman said. “In addition to flying scheduled missions, we wait for 2/7 Marines to get into contact with the enemy; then we take off to destroy the enemy. Even though our squadron name has the word ‘light’ in it, there is nothing light about our attack capabilities.”

The Heavy Haulers and Gunrunners provide 24-hour-a-day support. Maintaining a high level of readiness, the helicopters can be launched in a moment’s notice.

“We have a customer service relationship with the Marines on the deck,” Maj. Richman said. Any Marine should be able to call us on the radio and let us know what kind of support they need. We tailor the services we provide to fit the needs of the situation as best as possible.”

(Story by Sgt. Steve Cushman, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines.)

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US Marines of 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion Conclude Successful Tour in Iraq

In this file photo, Marines with Charlie Company, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 5, search underneath a highway bridge while conducting cache sweeps in western al-Anbar province, Iraq, April 10. The battalion, based out of Camp Lejuene, N.C., was replaced by 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, RCT-5 after completing their combat tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. (Photo by Cpl. Ryan Tomlinson.)

In this file photo, Marine Cpl. Sean P. Whitaker, a vehicle commander with Delta Company, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 5, converses with a scout in his vehicle while preparing for a patrol through western al-Anbar province at Camp Korean Village, Iraq, April 16. After completing a successful tour in Iraq, the Marines and sailors of 2nd LAR Bn. will return home to the United States. (Photo by Cpl. Ryan Tomlinson.)

Focus on Defense:

CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq, Oct. 11, 2008 -- After successfully participating in their fifth tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Marines and sailors with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 5, passed on their area of operations to 1st LAR Bn., RCT-5, and 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, RCT-5, and are returning home to the United States.

“The Task Force 2nd LAR [Bn.'s] Marines and sailors should be extremely proud of their efforts. They made a tremendous difference in the lives of the Iraqi people,” said Lt. Col. Russell E. Smith, battalion commander, 2nd LAR Bn. “[The Iraqi people] are safer, and the conditions are set to allow the people to rebuild the country.”

During the deployment, the battalion was split into two task forces covering an area of operations approximately the size of South Carolina. In a six-month period, the unit was able to improve the security for key towns such as Akashat and Rutbah. The battalion also assisted in transitioning the responsibility for security of many of the towns in the area to Iraqi Security Forces.

“At the beginning of the deployment, the mayor and the people were concerned for their own security and the water problem in the area,” said Smith. “Now, the people aren’t concerned for their safety. They are [focused] on the schools, employment and rebuilding the city. The largest success of the battalion is the people are now taking care of each other without fear of security.”

The battalion continued to conduct counterinsurgency operations in the area by patrolling the vast desert of western al-Anbar province. Whether locating and destroying cache sites or setting up checkpoints to search vehicles, 2nd LAR Bn. always made sure to make life difficult for anyone wishing to cause harm to Coalition forces or the people of Iraq.

“(The battalion) was able to improve the area’s security and the welfare of the people,” said 1st Sgt. Rogelio Burboa, 38, company first sergeant of Delta Company, 2nd LAR Bn.

Even with the success that 2nd LAR Bn. had, there is still work to be done.

“The LAR community is like a big family, and there will be no difference between the units replacing 2nd LAR Bn.,” said Smith, 44, from Rochester, N.H. “I believe they will easily be able to carry on my battalion’s success and accomplish great things on their own.”

The Marines and sailors with 2nd LAR Bn. will return home to their families in the near future. The future operations remain uncertain for the battalion, but they will be prepared for whatever may come next.

“These guys did a great job. Every time I went out to see them, the Marines, sailors and soldiers were putting out 100 percent effort to make sure the Iraqis were taken care of,” said Smith.

(Story by Cpl. Ryan Tomlinson.)

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Combat Camera: Troops in Iraq Vote

Sgt. Jonathan Moeller, Spc. Andrea Boyd and Spc. Carl Mann, all Iowa National Guardsmen currently serving in Iraq, hold their recently received ballots for the upcoming election, October 10th, 2008. (Photographer: Sgt. Lynette Hoke, 34th Combat Aviation Brigade.)

"I wanted to say that I voted in every election that I could," said Sgt. Jonathan Moeller, Chinook technical inspector of Task Force 34, B Company, 834th Aviation Supply Battalion. The native of Grimes, Iowa looks over his election ballot he recently received in the mail. (Photographer: Sgt. Lynette Hoke, 34th Combat Aviation Brigade.)

"Even though we are overseas, I wanted to make sure our voices are heard," said Spc. Andrea Boyd, aviation supply specialist of Task Force 34, B Company, 834th Aviation Support Battalion in Joint Base Balad, Iraq. The native of Ankeny, Iowa holds her election ballot she recently received in the mail. (Photographer: Sgt. Lynette Hoke, 34th Combat Aviation Brigade.)

Spc. Carl Mann, Sgt. Jonathan Moeller and Spc. Andrea Boyd all Iowa Army National Guardsmen who are with Task Force 34 in Joint Base Balad, Iraq hold their recently received election ballots on Oct 10, 2008. (Photographer: Sgt. Lynette Hoke, 34th Combat Aviation Brigade.)

Spc. Carl Mann, aviation supply specialist of Task Force 34, B Company, 834th Aviation Support Battalion looks over his recently received election ballot. The native of Zearing, Iowa was sure to register and cast his vote in the upcoming election. (Photographer: Sgt. Lynette Hoke, 34th Combat Aviation Brigade.)

"I wanted to say that I voted in every election that I could," said Sgt. Jonathan Moeller, Chinook technical inspector of Task Force 34 B. Company, 834th Aviation Supply Battalion. The native of Grimes, Iowa looks over his election ballot he recently received in the mail. (Photographer: Sgt. Lynette Hoke, 34th Combat Aviation Brigade.)

Spc. Carl Mann, aviation supply specialist of Task Force 34, B. Company, 834th Aviation Support Battalion looks over his recently received election ballot. (Photographer: Sgt. Lynette Hoke, 34th Combat Aviation Brigade.)

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US Navy Names Ship After Howard O. Lorenzen, 'Father Of Electronic Warfare'

Pictured here is the sister ship to the new USNS Howard O. Lorenzen (T-AGM 25), USNS Invincible (T-AGM-24), a Missile Range Instrumentation Ship operated by the Military Sealift Command. (Photo by U.S. Navy)

Focus on Defense:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 10, 2008 -- The Navy announced today that the name of the next missile range instrumentation ship will be USNS Howard O. Lorenzen. Designated T-AGM 25, the ship will honor the late Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) electrical engineer who was instrumental in the creation of our nation's electronic intelligence capabilities. Considered by many to be the 'Father of Electronic Warfare,' Lorenzen's accomplishments include developments in radar, electronic countermeasures systems, and intelligence satellite designs.

Lorenzen led the Galactic Radiation and Background (GRAB) program, the earliest successful U.S. reconnaissance satellite program and the first electronic intelligence satellite. The NRL began the classified GRAB program shortly after the U-2 incident of 1960 to obtain information on Soviet air defense radars that could not be observed by U.S. military aircraft.

USNS Howard O. Lorenzen will be 12,575 tons, 534 feet in length, and have a beam of 89 feet. Manned by a combined crew of 88 sailors and civilian mariners, the ship will host embarked military and civilian technicians from other U.S. government agencies. The construction contract for T-AGM 25 was awarded to VT Halter Marine Inc., in Pascagoula, Miss.

Missile range instrumentation ships provide platforms for monitoring missile launches and collecting data that can be used to improve missile efficiency and accuracy. Like the Navy's two current missile range instrumentation ships -- USNS Observation Island and USNS Invincible -- T-AGM 25 will be owned and operated by Military Sealift Command and conduct missions sponsored by the Air Force.

(Story from a U.S. Defense Department news release.)

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Terrorist Bombing in Mosul Kills 4 Iraqis, Injures 18

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 10, 2008 -- Iraqi citizens were killed and 18 wounded today when a roadside bomb exploded near an Iraqi police mounted patrol in the northern city of Mosul, military officials said. Two Iraqi police also were wounded in the attack, they said.

The bombing followed several days of military operations in the area in which coalition and Iraqi forces targeted terrorist networks. Today, those operations led to the capture of 10 suspected terrorists, including three men wanted in connection with al-Qaida in Iraq activity in the area, officials said.

Also today, coalition forces in Ijhalah Gharbi, about 44 miles south of Mosul, captured another wanted man believed to have ties to AQI regional leadership, as well as five other suspects, officials said. The alleged terrorist identified himself to forces during the operation, they said.

In other operations today, coalition forces detained five insurgents in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, officials said.

Earlier this week, Iraqi security forces killed three armed insurgents and captured 13 suspected terrorists believed to have launched recent attacks against coalition forces in Diyala and Baghdad, officials said.

One, a former Iraqi national police officer, is said to have conducted intimidation attacks and engaged in kidnapping for ransom, theft and robbery to supply money, weapons and vehicles to other criminal elements in Khalis, officials reported.

In other operations reported by coalition forces this week:

• Iraqi soldiers Wednesday captured two alleged members of the Jaish al-Islam terrorist cell operating in the Balad area. A third suspect, identified as a member of Hamas in Iraq, was killed after trying to attack Iraqi soldiers. The association of the insurgent groups indicates the possible convergence of terrorist groups, officials said.

• During a separate operation Wednesday in Khan Bani Said, Iraqi Security Forces captured six suspected AQI terrorists. During the operation, Iraqi Security Forces killed two of the suspects who showed hostile intent as they pointed weapons toward the SWAT members.

• Also Wednesday, Iraqi police and coalition troops discovered several weapons caches in the Abu Ghraib area of Baghdad that included homemade bombs, 270 122 mm rockets and 200,000 heavy machine gun rounds. The find was based on citizens’ tips.

• On Tuesday, an Iraqi SWAT team operating in Makariyim captured three suspected AQI terrorists believed to be involved in logistics. They are believed to be associates of cell leaders involved in murder, kidnapping, theft, torture and indirect fire attacks against Iraqi and coalition forces.

• Also Tuesday, in Sufayah Village, about six miles from the Syrian border, Iraqi soldiers uncovered a weapons cache of bomb-making materials.

(Compiled from Multinational Forces Iraq, Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)

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US Military Meets, Exceeds Recruiting Goals for Fiscal Year 2008

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 10, 2008 -- All military services, including their reserve components, met their recruiting goals for fiscal 2008, marking one of the strongest recruiting efforts in four years, senior Defense Department officials announced today.

“This is the strongest recruiting year we’ve had overall … since fiscal year 2004,” said David S.C. Chu, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness.

Notably, the Army and Marine Corps had raised their recruiting goals for fiscal 2008, as both services continue to grow their ranks to meet the demands of the wars on two fronts. In fact, the Army was the sole active-duty service to exceed its goal by a full 1 percent, recruiting 517 more soldiers than its 80,000 target.

And the service increased the overall quality of its recruits, its top recruiting officer said, and put more recruits into the pool waiting to join in fiscal 2009.

“I’ve never seen a better Army,” Maj. Gen. Thomas P. Bostick, the commander of the service’s recruiting command.

Only 20 percent of recruits joining the Army in fiscal 2008 required a waiver for medical or conduct reasons, Bostick said. The Army granted only 372 waivers to allow recruits with felony convictions to enlist, down from 511 in fiscal 2007, he added.

Also, the Army increased its percentage of active-duty recruits who hold high school diplomas to 83 percent, up from 79 percent in fiscal 2007.

DoD’s goal is that 90 percent of those enlisting have a high school diploma. All other active-duty and reserve services met or exceeded the 90 percent goal, except for the Army Reserve, which came in at 89 percent. All recruits must have a high school certification to join.

The other active-duty services weighed in at 100 percent of their fiscal year recruiting goals, and each exceeded its goal by at least a few dozen recruits.

The Navy came in at 38,485 accessions, 66 above its goal of 38,419. The Marine Corps came in at 37,991, 24 above its goal of 37,967 and the Air Force recruited 27,848 new airmen, 48 above its goal of 27,800.

Retention was strong for the active-duty Army and Navy, as each exceeded its fiscal 2008 target. The Marine Corps did not reach its goal for retaining first-time recruits, and its retention rate dropped to 95 percent.

Air Force retention suffered in a tumultuous year for the service, although officials did not release specific numbers. Part of the problem, Chu explained, was that the Air Force was drawing down its force at the start of the fiscal year, and therefore did not have strong retention incentives in place.

The Air Force stopped its reduction in strength about mid-year, but it was too late to stop the flow of airmen leaving the service, Chu said. He added that those retention rates are expected to rebound for fiscal 2009, which began Oct. 1.

The reserve forces had a strong recruiting year, as the Air National Guard came in at 126 percent of its recruiting goal, recruiting 2,200 airmen above its goal of 8,548.

The Army Reserve recruited 106 percent of its 37,500-soldier goal, bringing in 39,870 new recruits.

The Air Force Reserve finished the year at 105 percent, with 7,323 accessions, 360 above its goal of 6,983.

The Army National Guard closed out the year at 103 percent, with nearly 2,200 recruits over its 63,000 goal.

The Navy and Marine Corps reserves both came in at 100 percent of their recruiting goals, with 9,134 and 7,628 accessions, respectively.

Retention numbers were not released, but officials said losses were within acceptable limits.

Chu said that DoD begins this recruiting fiscal year in a stronger position than last year. Also, he said, the strength of the all-volunteer force is shown in the overall quality of the recruits.

“We aim for the typical person to be above average,” he said.

More than 92 percent of recruits hold a high school diploma, contrasted with 75 percent of the general U.S. population in the same age range.

Nearly 70 percent of new active-duty recruits came from the top half of those in the United States testing highest in math and verbal aptitude, and about three-quarters of new recruits come from neighborhoods that are at or above the U.S. median annual household income of about $50,000.

“[It] is a great tribute to the qualities of America’s youth today, their willingness to step forward, and their willingness to serve,” Chu said. “The fact that we are getting some of the best and brightest in our society is a great tribute to the spirit that young people put into the notion of public service today.”

(Story by Fred W. Baker III, American Forces Press Service.)

Related: U.S. Defense Department News Release, Fiscal 2008 Recruiting and Retention

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US Airpower Summary; Oct. 10, 2008: A-10s Engage Anti-Afghan Forces

An A-10 Thunderbolt II, like this one, flies combat mission over Afghanistan supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. A-10s provide close-air support and employ a wide variety of conventional munitions, including general purpose bombs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Robert Wieland.)

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Oct. 10, 2008 -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations Oct. 9, according to combined air and space operations center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs dropped a guided bomb unit-38 and fired cannon rounds onto anti-Afghan forces engaging coalition forces in the vicinity of Gereshk. The on-scene joint terminal attack controller confirmed the mission successful.

In the vicinity of Bari Kowt, A-10s fired rockets onto anti-Afghan forces. The mission was reported successful by an on-scene JTAC.

Coalition aircraft performed shows of force to deter insurgent activities near Sheykhabad and in the vicinity of Lashkar Gah. The on-scene JTACs declared the missions successful.

Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles conducted shows of force near Sheykhabad, Kabul, and in the vicinity of Sheykhabad to deter enemy activities. The missions were confirmed successful by a JTAC.

In total, 70 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Fifteen Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, four Navy and coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 45 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided over watch for reconstruction activities and helped deter and disrupt terrorist activities.

Twenty-seven Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, three Air Force and coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

Air Force C-130 Hercules and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.

Approximately 141 airlift sorties were flown, more than 400 tons of cargo delivered, and more than 3,000 passengers were transported. This included approximately 24,000 pounds of troop resupply airdropped in Afghanistan.

Coalition C-130 crews flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.

On Oct. 8, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 52 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.5 million pounds of fuel to 253 receiving aircraft.

(From a U.S. Air Force news release.)

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US Marines Mark 25th Anniversary of Light Armored Vehicle (LAV)

This Light Armored Vehicle was donated to the National Museum of the Marine Corps (background) Friday by the Program Manager’s Office for the LAV, a program under Marine Corps Systems Command. The donation coincided with the 25th anniversary of the production of the first LAV. (Photo by Lance Cpl. Jimmy Serena Jr.)

Focus on Defense:

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va., Oct. 10, 2008 -- To coincide with the 25th anniversary of the production of the first Light Armored Vehicle, the Program Manager’s Office for the LAV, a program under Marine Corps Systems Command, donated an LAV A-1 to the National Museum of the Marine Corps on Oct. 3.

Hundreds of people attended the ceremony where guest speaker Col. Michael Micucci, LAV program manager, spoke of his love for the vehicle and the great things it has done for our armed services.

‘‘The LAV program represents a true success for the Corps,” Micucci said. ‘‘This platform provides great capability and operational flexibility to the employing commander.”

Micucci spoke of the history of the LAV and 29th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Alfred Gray’s idea in the late 1970’s that a reconnaissance force could be more effective if they were transported by agile vehicles. Since that time LAVs have deployed to Grenada, Panama, Somalia, Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Marines Adopted the LAV in 1983 expecting it to serve until 2005.

‘‘With the advancement that the LAV has made, I expect this vehicle to be around for a lot longer,” Micucci said. ‘‘I’ve said in the past that I think the LAV is one of the Corps’ best assets and I still believe that today.”

As of 2008, the Marine Corps LAV is now projected to remain in service until at least 2024. Through programs of service life extension, upgrades to armor and armament, along with survivability and capability enhancements, the LAV remains combat ready for the battlefields of the 21st century. The LAVs of today have better defense systems and offensive capabilities.

According to Sgt. Craig Calucci, lead LAV instructor with the First Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at Camp Pendleton, Calif., the LAV’s eight wheeled configuration can maintain highway speeds in excess of 60 miles per hour, can climb 60 degree inclines and traverse 30 degree side slopes.

It accelerates from 0 to 20 mph in less than ten seconds and negotiates 18-inch vertical steps. The LAV has a cruising range of more than 400 miles and provides more than 14 inches of ground clearance.

According to Miccuci, the LAV gives the enemy a harder time when trying to defend against it because it is capable of traversing on water. As time progresses, the LAV will continue to adapt to whatever the needs of the armed services may be, he said.

(Story by Lance Cpl. Jimmy Serena Jr.)

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Combat Camera: Chaos Company Soldiers Patrol Musayyib

Staff Sergeant Zebediah Thomas, a soldier with 2nd Platoon, Company C (Chaos Company), 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, discovers a toy AK-47 while searching a house near Musayyib in Babil province, during a patrol Oct. 5, 2008. After completing their search, the soldiers of Co. C returned the toy and also gave gifts to the residents. (Photographer: Sgt. David Turner, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Soldiers of 2nd Platoon, Company C (Chaos Company), 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, search a house near Musayyib, in Babil province, Oct. 5, 2008. As part of a presence patrol in the area, soldiers of Chaos Company searched houses and talked to local residents. (Photographer: Sgt. David Turner, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Staff Sergeant Brant Massey, of Indianapolis, with 2nd Platoon, Company C (Chaos Company), 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, climbs to the roof of a house near Musayyib in Babil province, while conducting a patrol Oct. 5, 2008. As part of a presence patrol in the area, soldiers of Chaos Company searched houses and talked to local residents. (Photographer: Sgt. David Turner, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Sergeant First Class Christopher Williams, of Bloomington, Ill., 2nd Platoon, Company C (Chaos Company), 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, greets an Iraqi boy while on patrol near Musayyib, in Babil province, Oct. 5, 2008. Williams' platoon regularly stops to visit residents of the area to learn what their concerns are. (Photographer: Sgt. David Turner, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Sergeant Christopher Brotka, of Erie, Pa., a soldier with 1st Platoon, Company C., 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, hands out toys to Iraqi children in Musayyib, Oct. 4, 2008. The soldiers of Company C. performed a presence patrol with members of the IP and distributed gifts for children while asking local citizens what concerns they had. (Photographer: Sgt. David Turner, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Members of the Iraqi police distribute gifts to children in Musayyib while performing a presence patrol with soldiers of 1st Platoon, Company C., 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Oct. 4, 2008. The joint patrol gave the IP a chance to listen to the concerns of local citizens while introducing themselves. (Photographer: Sgt. David Turner, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Sergeant 1st Class LeVares Jackson, of Lima, Ohio, platoon sergeant with 1st Platoon, Company C., 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Inf. Division, talks to an Iraqi father while performing a joint presence patrol with members of the Iraqi police Oct. 4, 2008. (Photographer: Sgt. David Turner, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Sergeant Jason Stephens, of St. Louis, Mo., a soldier with 1st Platoon, Company C., 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, looks for a handshake from a young Iraqi boy in Musayyib Oct. 4, 2008. The soldiers of Company C. performed a presence patrol with members of the Iraqi police and distributed gifts for children while asking local citizens what concerns they had. (Photographer: Sgt. David Turner, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

An Iraqi boy receives a stuffed toy while his father talks to Iraqi police and coalition soldiers in Musayyib Oct. 4, 2008. (Photographer: Sgt. David Turner, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

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Combat Camera: Aboard USS Ronald Reagan; Oct. 9, 2008

GULF OF OMAN (Oct. 8, 2008) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the "Fist of the Fleet" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25 launches from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The F/A-18C Hornet is an all-weather, attack aircraft that can also be used as a fighter. Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Scott.)

GULF OF OMAN (Oct. 7, 2008) Two Aviation Structural Mechanics collaborate on the wing of a F/A-18C Hornet, assigned to the "Fist of the Fleet" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25, as they perform routine maintenance in the hangar bay of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility reassuring regional partners of the United States' commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee.)

GULF OF OMAN (Oct. 6, 2008) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Michael Dominguez taxis an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the "Eagles" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. Operations in the NAVCENT area of operations are focused on reassuring regional partners of the United States' commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chelsea Kennedy.)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan (Oct. 6, 2008) An F/A-18C assigned to the "Stingers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) refuels from an Air Force KC-10 tanker during a mission supporting British troops in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan. Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. Erik Etz.)

GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 29, 2008) Hull Maintenance Technician Fireman Wayne Worley demonstrates to his junior firemen how to weld on a sheet of aluminum in the welding shop aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee.)

GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 28, 2008) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the "Eagles" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 launches from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The F/A-18E provides the carrier strike group with a strike fighter that has significant growth potential and increased range currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee.)

GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 24, 2008) Scott Stapp, former lead singer of the band Creed, performs with his band on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Buliavac.)

GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 19, 2008) Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) set the training barricade during flight deck drills. Ronald Reagan maintains three barricades used to perform emergency traps on all carrier-based aircraft. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chelsea Kennedy.)

GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 18, 2008) A plane captain, walks down the wing of an F/A-18C Hornet, assigned to the "Stingers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113, on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). A plane captain performs pre and post operation safety inspections, and maintains general cleanliness of the entire aircraft. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee.)

GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 18, 2008) A plane captain, walks down the wing of an F/A-18C Hornet, assigned to the "Stingers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113, on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). A plane captain performs pre and post operation safety inspections, and maintains general cleanliness of the entire aircraft. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee.)

GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 17, 2008) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the "Eagles" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115, launches off the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility focusing on reassuring regional partners of the United States commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chelsea Kennedy.)

AFGHANISTAN (Sept. 27, 2008) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the "Stingers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 departs a tanker track in Southern Afghanistan to head back to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) while two other Hornets join a British Royal Air Force L-1011 aerial refueling aircraft. Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. Erik Etz.)

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Tags: DOD, Military, GWOT, terrorism, United States, U.S., Open Thread, Navy, USS Ronald Reagan, CVN 76, photography, photo, photos, pictures, images, photojournalism, Combat Camera
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