US Airpower Summary; Nov. 29, 2008: Reaper Attacks Anti-Afghan Forces

A MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aircraft prepares to land after a mission supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. The Reaper has the ability to carry both precision-guided bombs and air-to-ground missiles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Brian Ferguson.)

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Nov. 29, 2008 -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 28, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, an Air Force MQ-9 Reaper used Hellfire missiles against anti-Afghan forces carrying weapons and moving away from a compound in the vicinity of Bolocan. Furthermore, coalition aircraft performed shows of force to deter enemy activities in the same area. The missions were confirmed a success by the on-scene joint terminal attack controllers.

In the vicinity of Shkin, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs dropped 500 pound bombs onto an anti-Afghan forces mortar team that was firing at a coalition convoy from a ridgeline. The JTACs declared the missions were successful.

An A-10 and a coalition aircraft conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities near Lashkar Gah and Sangin. The missions were reported a success by the JTACs.

In the vicinity of Farah and Asmar, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles performed shows of force and provided armed aerial overwatch to deter anti-Afghan forces from firing at a coalition convoy conducting operations in the area. The JTACs confirmed the missions were successful.

In total, 46 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Fourteen Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan.

In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 48 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt hostile activities.

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

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

Approximately 125 airlift sorties were flown, more than 300 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 2,700 passengers were transported. Airlift included approximately 28,500 pounds of troop re-supply that was air-dropped in Afghanistan

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

On Nov. 27, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 49 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.5 million pounds of fuel to 280 receiving aircraft.

(Report from a U.S. Air Force news release.)

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US Air Force Pilot Surpasses 3,000 Hours in A-10 Thunderbolt

Lt. Col. David Dressel, a pilot with the 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, poses in front of an A-10 Thunderbolt II at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan. Dressel, a native of Watertown, Minn., has flown more than 3,000 hours in the A-10 and is on track to reach 500 combat hours during his current deployment. (Photographer: 455th Air Expeditionary Wing.)

Lt. Col. David Dressel, a pilot with the 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, poses in front of an A-10 Thunderbolt II at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan. Dressel, a native of Watertown, Minn., has flown more than 3,000 hours in the A-10 and is on track to reach 500 combat hours during his current deployment. (Photographer: 455th Air Expeditionary Wing.)

Dispatches from the Front:

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan, Nov. 29, 2008 -- The list of single-seat fighter pilots who have flown 3,000 hours in one particular aircraft is short. On Nov. 21, a new name was added to that list when Lt. Col. David Dressel, flew his 3,000th hour in an A-10 Thunderbolt II while flying a close air support mission over Afghanistan.

Dressel, a native of Watertown, Minn., began flying in 1991. The A-10 was his number one choice coming out of pilot training.

“When I was a senior in high school I was placed in a Minnesota mentor program where you go to school half time and work with an industry half time,” he said. “I was interested in aviation and was placed with a company that designed bullets for the military. I was put on a design team that built 30 mm shells for the A-10. I said this is awesome. The only plane that carried the 30 mm cannon was the A-10 – that’s what leads me down that road.”

From his first sortie in the A-10 at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., 18 years ago, to flying combat sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Dressel has come a long way.

“You remember where you were when you hit 1,000 and when you hit 2,000 hours,” he said. “To hit 3,000 hours in a combat sortie was really special.”

Colonel Dressel, deployed with the 75th Fighter Squadron from Moody Air Force Base, Ga., is no stranger to combat. He has deployed in support of Operations Desert Storm, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He said there is no other place he would rather be than deployed.

“Our job is to support the guys on the ground,” he said. “Unlike other aircraft, that’s our main focus – providing close air support to guys on the ground, slugging it out day after day, 24/7.”

“Back home you rate your success on how well you performed,” he continued. “Here, you rate your success on how well the ground guys do. Our success comes down to whether or not the ground commander was able to accomplish his mission.”

Despite his accomplishments, this veteran pilot tips his hat to the new pilots he works with.

“It was seven years before I shot in combat,” he said. “When I came in, we were a nation at peace, now we are in a conflict. Anyone who signed up after 9/11 knew they were going to deploy and see combat. My hat’s off to them.”

Next for Dressel is passing 500 combat hours in the A-10 – something he is on track to accomplish during this deployment.

(Report by Staff Sgt. Rachel Martinez, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs.)

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Combat Camera: Jaysh Al Mahdi Search Near Forward Operating Base Echo

Iraqi soldiers from the 8th Division Iraqi Army question an Iraqi man to discover the whereabouts of suspected Jaysh Al Mahdi forces in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Nov. 24. JAM is a militia insurgency group in Iraq. (Photographer: Senior Airman Eric Harris, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

Iraqi soldiers from the 8th Division Iraqi Army are briefed before a mission to look for Jaysh Al Mahdi forces in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Nov. 24. JAM is a militia insurgency group in Iraq. (Photographer: Senior Airman Eric Harris, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

Iraqi soldiers from the 8th Division Iraqi Army prepare flyers to be distributed after their mission is a success in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Nov. 24. Iraqi soldiers distribute flyers to show the Iraqi people that they are ready to provide security for Iraq. (Photographer: Senior Airman Eric Harris, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

Iraqi soldiers from the 8th Division Iraqi Army question an Iraqi man to discover the whereabouts of suspected Jaysh Al Mahdi forces in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Nov. 24. JAM is a militia insurgency group in Iraq. (Photographer: Senior Airman Eric Harris, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

Iraqi soldiers from the 8th Division Iraqi Army prepare for a mission to look for Jaysh Al Mahdi forces in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Nov. 24. JAM is a militia insurgency group in Iraq. (Photographer: Senior Airman Eric Harris, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

Iraqi soldiers from the 8th Division Iraqi Army prepare to clear a house in search of Jaysh Al Mahdi forces in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Nov. 24. JAM is a militia insurgency group in Iraq. (Photographer: Senior Airman Eric Harris, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

Iraqi soldiers from the 8th Division Iraqi Army are briefed before a mission to look for Jaysh Al Mahdi forces in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Nov. 24. JAM is a militia insurgency group in Iraq. (Photographer: Senior Airman Eric Harris, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

More Combat Camera Imagery on THE TENSION

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US Airpower Summary, Nov. 28, 2008: F-15 Strike Eagles Provide Close-Air Support

An F-15E Strike Eagle, from the 492th Fighter Squadron at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, pops flairs during a combat sortie in Southwest Asia. The F-15E's primary role in Afghanistan is providing close-air support for ground troops. (Air Force photo by Staff Sgt Aaron Allmon II.)

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Nov. 28, 2008 -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 27, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles and A-10 Thunderbolt IIs fired cannon rounds, and a Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet dropped a guided bomb unit-38 onto anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Morghab. The missions were confirmed a success by on-scene joint terminal attack controllers.

In the vicinity of Bari Kowt, F-15Es dropped a GBU-31 and a GBU-38 onto anti-coalition members who were firing at a coalition forces convoy from a cave on the hillside. The JTAC declared the mission was successful.

Coalition aircraft conducted a show of force to deter enemy activities near Mushan. The mission was reported a success by the JTAC.

In the vicinity of Malek Din and Qalat, F-15Es performed shows of force and provided armed aerial overwatch to deter anti-Afghan forces from firing at a coalition convoy traveling to a nearby forward operating base along the Pakistan, Afghanistan border. The JTACs confirmed the missions were successful.

A Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet conducted a show of force to deter enemy fighters and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition convoy in the vicinity of Lashkar Gah. The mission was declared a success by the JTAC.

In the vicinity of Shkin, an A-10 conducted a show of force to deter anti-Afghan activities. The JTAC reported the mission was successful.

A coalition aircraft performed a show of force to deter anti-coalition members who were emplacing improvised explosive devices on the side of a known travel route near Gereshk. The mission was declared a success by the JTAC.

In total, 69 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Fourteen 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, Air Force F-16CJ Fighting Falcons performed shows of force and provided armed aerial overwatch for coalition ground forces who were conducting IED search operations in the vicinity of Baqubah. The JTACs confirmed the missions were successful.

In total, coalition aircraft flew 48 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt hostile activities.

Thirty-two Air Force, Navy and coalition 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 aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.

Approximately 100 airlift sorties were flown, more than 350 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 1,700 passengers were transported.

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

On Nov. 26, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 50 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.7 million pounds of fuel to 290 receiving aircraft.

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

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OEF Summary; Nov. 28, 2008: Coalition, Afghan Vehicles Collide in Kabul Highway Accident

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2008 -- A coalition-forces vehicle and a van carrying Afghan civilians were involved in a traffic accident on Highway 1 in the capital city of Kabul today, military officials said.

Both vehicles were traveling east when the van attempted to move into the left lane of traffic where it struck the side of the coalition vehicle, according to a U.S. military news release. The coalition vehicle’s driver was unable to swerve to avoid the van, the release said, because of a median separating the east-bound and west-bound lanes of traffic. The Afghan van skidded off the highway and struck a roadside shop.

The release didn’t say whether or not coalition forces or Afghan civilians had been injured or killed as a result of the accident.

The accident was reported to the Afghan National Police. The incident is under investigation.

“We regret this incident and express our condolences to the families and people involved,” said Army Col. Jerry O’Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman.

In news yesterday, Afghan and coalition forces killed seven militants and uncovered three caches containing drugs and improvised explosive device-making materials during a clearing operation in Nahr Surkh district, Helmand province.

In Nov. 26 operations:

Coalition forces killed 15 militants and detained six suspected militants during an early-morning raid in Anizai, part of Zhari district in Kandahar province.

Afghan and coalition forces detained seven suspected militants during a combined operation aimed at disrupting the Haqqani terrorist network in Khost province.

(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)

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OIF Summary; Nov. 28, 2008: Troops Nab 4 Suspected Criminals in Baghdad Raids

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2008 -- U.S. soldiers detained four suspected criminals yesterday during Thanksgiving Day operations in southern Baghdad’s Rashid district, military officials said.

Some of the detainees allegedly conducted attacks on Iraqi and coalition forces while others are suspected of weapons-trafficking activities.

"Our soldiers continue to support our Iraqi security forces partners as we assist them in providing a safe and secure environment for the Iraqi people,” said Army Maj. Dave Olson, spokesman for the 4th Infantry Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team.

In Nov. 26 operations:

Eighteen women in northern Iraq who were associated with al-Qaida in Iraq suicide bombing cells turned themselves into coalition forces. The women were persuaded by local religious leaders and their fathers to cease their training in suicide operations and reconcile.

Senior U.S. and Iraqi officers met in Diyala to coordinate the transfer of authority for Sons of Iraq operations from coalition to Iraqi jurisdiction. The Sons of Iraq program is currently managed by coalition forces, but the Iraqi government will soon assume responsibility for this program.

Iraqi National Police seized weapons while U.S. soldiers detained two suspected bomb cell members in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.

Tips provided by concerned citizens led Iraqi soldiers, police and U.S. soldiers to seize several weapons caches throughout Baghdad.

Several improvised-explosive devices detonated in eastern Baghdad, wounding five civilians, five National policemen and three local Iraqi police officers.

A mass grave site containing 23 remains was found in Diyala province. The bodies appear to have been deceased for about a year-and-a-half. Iraqi police will present the remains to respective families for proper burial.

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

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Amphibious Assault Ship USS Essex Departs Hong Kong

In this file photo, the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) transits the Pacific Ocean at the culmination of ANNUALEX 2008, November 19, 2008. The permanently forward deployed George Washington Carrier Strike Group concluded its bi-lateral training operations in the Pacific Ocean with Japan Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces, which increased interoperability and strengthened its partnership. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class John M. Hageman.)

Focus On Defense

HONG KONG, Nov. 27, 2008 -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) departed Hong Kong Nov. 26 following a scheduled four-day port visit.

During the visit, Sailors had the chance to meet local citizens, experience local customs and traditions, and enjoy the many recreational activities offered in Hong Kong.

While in port, the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) provided a variety of tours and trips enjoyed by several hundred crew members. The various trips included tours of Disneyland Hong Kong, Po Lin Monastery - home of the world's largest Buddha statue, and a trip showcasing the city of Hong Kong itself.

"Hong Kong is the coolest place I've been to since I joined the Navy," said Seaman Apprentice Justin Mitchell, of Mobile, Ala. "The nightlife here is incredible. If you like to go out and have a good time on the town, this is the place to do it."

While many Sailors enjoyed the metropolitan atmosphere in downtown Hong Kong, others, such as Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW/AW) Gerardo Cortado, chose to explore the city's rural locations. Cortado joined MWR for the Macau Day Tour, which featured stops at various locations throughout Macau, including the Ruins of St. Paul's, Macau Tower and the Temple of A Ma.

"Visiting Macau with MWR was a really good experience," said Cortado. "Our tour guide was very nice and knowledgeable, and I got to experience some of the culture of the area. Given the chance, I would definitely tour with MWR again."

If experiencing the local culture wasn't rewarding enough, a small group of Essex' Sailors had a very unique opportunity to bring American culture to Hong Kong in the form of music. The Deuces, a rock band comprised of Essex Sailors, played at 'The Wanch,' in downtown Hong Kong Nov. 22.

Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Keith Campbell, The Deuces' bass guitarist, said the opportunity to play in a foreign country is a reward most American bands never get a chance to enjoy.

"It is a lot of fun to get out and play off the ship," said Campbell. "It's great to play in front of a mixed crowd of locals, Sailors and Marines. This is really an opportunity that I wouldn't have back in the States."

Hong Kong is only one location on a growing list of foreign ports The Deuces have played in. They have also performed in the Republic of the Philippines, Thailand, Korea, Australia and Japan.

While Essex' Sailors were experiencing Hong Kong, many Hong Kong locals were also experiencing Essex. More than 250 government officials and distinguished guests attended an onboard reception, Nov. 24. Lt. Stephen Moore explained it was an excellent opportunity for both countries to gain a better understanding of each other.

"It's really a different experience for them to come on board and see the U.S. Navy first-hand," said Moore.

Essex' Sailors conducted an underway replenishment (UNREP) within hours of pulling out of the liberty port, taking on over 100,000 gallons of fuel. The UNREP was just another day in the forward-deployed life of Essex' Sailors. Since departing for fall patrol, they have taken on 2.6 million gallons of fuel and thousands of pallets of stores.

According to Senior Chief Storekeeper (SW) Robert Clemons, constantly overcoming the challenges of keeping Essex stocked requires the efforts of every department on the ship.

"You work very hard and very long," said Clemons. "A lot of planning goes into it and it's a total team effort. No one department can say 'we did it,' because it requires the air department, engineering, deck, supply, the working parties, and so on. Being forward-deployed means we have to be able to rely on each other in order to be successful."

Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. Expeditionary Strike Group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy's forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

(Report by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Johnson, USS Essex Public Affairs.)

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Camp Eggers Celebrates Thanksgiving With Carnival

Army Col. Marion Gale, Combined Security, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, Kabul poses with the camels supplied by morale welfare and recreation in support of Camp Eggers' winter carnival Thanksgiving Day. (Photographer: Cliff Williams, Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan.)

Taking aim, Petty Officer 3rd Class Odell Hudson gets ready for his final shoot of the free-throw competition. For every game won, tickets were given for a raffle of various prizes at Camp Eggers' winter carnival, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, Kabul Thanksgiving Day. (Photographer: Cliff Williams, Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan.)

Army Col. Stephen G. Yackley, deputy to the commanding general, Police Development, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, helps dishes out Thanksgiving dinner to the servicemembers of Camp Eggers, Kabul. (Photographer: Cliff Williams, Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan.)

Dispatches from the Front:

KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 27, 2008 -- Servicemembers at Camp Eggers marked Thanksgiving Day 2008 with good food, games and laughter, as Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan celebrated with a winter carnival.

With a joint military command of more than 1,000 personnel away from home during the holidays, morale, welfare and recreation personnel sought to make the holiday memorable.

“Thanksgiving back home for me is always a huge gathering, so being away from home during the holidays is hard,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Odell Hudson. “But today has been fun. It took away the thought of being away from home for the holidays.”

Camp Eggers personnel participated in various competitions, including darts; football and softball throws; and pie- and hot dog-eating competitions. Prizes were offered, and camel rides were also available around base.

CSTC-A provides advisors, mentors and trainers to help the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Interior with organizing, training, equipping and supporting Afghan national security forces in order to defeat the insurgency; provide internal security; extend and enforce the rule of law; set conditions for economic development; and gain the trust and confidence of the citizens of Afghanistan.

(Report by Petty Officer 1st Class Cliff Williams, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan.)

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Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers Celebrate Thanksgiving With Fellow Comrades

Thanksgiving decorations served to greet the diners at the Ironhorse Oasis Dining Facility as Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers celebrated Thanksgiving with a feast, Nov. 27. (Photographer: Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers and airmen wait in line outside the Ironhorse Oasis Dining Facility for their chance to eat the Thanksgiving Day feast that awaits them inside, Nov. 27. (Photographer: Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

Soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division and Multi-National Division – Baghdad enjoy a Thanksgiving feast in the 4th Infantry Division’s Ironhorse Oasis Dining Facility, Nov. 27. (Photographer: Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

Goulam Moula and Locuan Thafa, both civilian food service specialists, who work in the 4th Infantry Division’s Ironhorse Oasis Dining Facility, pour eggnog into plastic cups during the Thanksgiving Day feast, Nov. 27. (Photographer: Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

1st Sgt. Manuel Torres-Baez, a native of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, who serves as the senior enlisted leader of Headquarters Support Company, Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, provides an apple for Spc. Christopher Robins, a native of Ashtabula, Ohio, who serves as a mechanic with DSTB, 4th Inf. Div. Robins volunteered to wear a Thanksgiving Day turkey costume with the intent to build morale and generate laughter at the 4th Infantry Division’s Ironhorse Oasis Dining Facility, Nov. 27. (Photographer: Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

Unit commanders and leaders from the 4th Infantry Division and Multi-National Division – Baghdad serve their soldiers a Thanksgiving feast as a way of expressing their gratitude for the service the soldiers provide in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Nov. 27, at the 4th Infantry Division’s Ironhorse Oasis Dining Facility. (Photographer: Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

Dispatches from the Front:

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq, Nov. 27, 2008 -- The line stretched out the doors and curved along the sidewalks as Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers gathered at the 4th Infantry Division’s Ironhorse Oasis Dining Facility to celebrate Thanksgiving together, Nov. 27.

Historians say it was 1621 when colonists and Indians shared an autumn harvest feast, known to many Americans as the first Thanksgiving celebration. The shared meal became a symbol of cooperation and interaction – and has held great meaning and importance over time.

The legacy has survived centuries as people throughout the United States gather every year on the last Thursday of November to celebrate their thanks and share enormous amounts of food with their family and friends.

Although soldiers with MND-B weren’t home with their families and loved ones this Thanksgiving, they made every attempt possible to continue the traditions and celebrate their gratitude.

More than 72,000 soldiers, fellow service members, contractors, subcontractors and Department of the Army civilians throughout Baghdad feasted on 49,600 pounds of turkey, 6,300 pounds of fresh shrimp, 35,000 pounds of fresh mashed potatoes, 8,000 pounds of bread and dressing, 10,400 pounds of corn, 7,300 pounds of green beans, 55 gallons of gravy and 10,000 assorted pies, said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Sharon McCray, a native of Fort Worth, Texas, who serves as command food advisor with Company B, Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Inf. Div., MND-B.

A great deal of time and effort was spent planning the occasion, hoping to make it as genuine as possible.

A few weeks ago, a query was put out to MND-B soldiers in the area, asking them to submit recipes from their families back home. The chosen recipes were made for the feast.

“We have selected eight recipes from our soldiers’ families. They range from stuffing, to pecan pie, to macaroni and cheese. As long as we had the ingredients and tools to make them, the cooks prepared them,” said Capt. Charlsey Mahle, a native of Kingsport, Tenn., the commander of Headquarters Support Company, DSTB, 4th Inf. Div., who oversaw the operation of the dining facility.

Staff Sgt. Jessica Douglas, a native of New York City, who serves as a medic with Headquarters Battery, 2nd Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, attached to 4th Inf. Div., submitted three recipes made by her mother-in-law: “Alabama Slamma” twice-baked potatoes, sweet potato casserole and “Not Your Ordinary Stuffing.”

“My mother-in-law was so excited when I asked her for the recipes. I can’t wait to tell her what people say about them,” said Douglas, who asked her mother-in-law for the recipes as a way of bringing a piece of home to Iraq for the holidays.

“For right now, this is our home, and instead of thinking about what I could be eating for Thanksgiving dinner, I decided it would be better to just eat it here.”

Sgt. Matt Crabill, a native of Garrett, Ind., who serves as a radar mechanic with Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 5th Field Artillery Regiment, attached to 4th Inf. Div., submitted his grandmother’s macaroni and cheese recipe.

“There is no macaroni and cheese that tastes like my Grandma’s baked macaroni and cheese. Having them make it here reminds me of being at home,” he said.

Those who feasted on the recipes and the other dishes prepared by the DFAC staff were complimentary of the food.

“This food is excellent,” said Spc. Travis Stansbury, a native of Turlock, Calif., who serves as a human resource specialist with 510th Human Resources Company, 10th Sustainment Brigade, 30th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, MND-B, as he ate the twice-baked potatoes.

“Not quite as good as home but certainly a morale booster. They’ve succeeded in making it feel like a touch of home,” he said.

This Thanksgiving is Stansbury’s first away from home, and while he would love for nothing more than to spend this day with his wife and son, he said he also believes that celebrating Thanksgiving here in Iraq is important for soldiers and builds camaraderie.

“It helps us keep in touch with who we are and where we come from,” he said. “These guys aren’t as cute as my wife – but they’re my family – just a different kind of family.”

Thanksgiving decorations were strung throughout the DFAC; the 4th Inf. Div. Band played music throughout the meal; and to top it off, two soldiers dressed up in Thanksgiving-themed costumes and ambled about greeting soldiers and posing for pictures.

“Our first sergeant asked for help, and we volunteered,” said Spc. Christopher Robins, who was dressed as a giant red and orange turkey. Robins is a native of Ashtabula, Ohio, and serves as a mechanic with DSTB, 4th Inf. Div. “Things can be stressful around here, and this costume makes people laugh. It’s Thanksgiving. People are missing their families, and if I can make them laugh, then we all feel better.”

As soldiers gathered at the dinner tables, laughing and talking with their friends throughout the day, all seemed to forget the fact they were far from home, family and friends, and enjoyed their Thanksgiving meal for simply what it was: a great feast among their closest friends and comrades – their Ironhorse family.

(Report by Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.)

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US Statement: Iraq’s Parliament Passes Troop Withdrawal Agreement

News in Balance:

BAGHDAD, Nov. 27, 2008 -- The following is the text of a joint statement by Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker and General Ray Odierno on the passage by Iraq's Council of Representatives of the Strategic Framework Agreement and the Security Agreement:

The United States welcomes today’s approval by Iraq’s Council of Representatives of the Strategic Framework Agreement and the Security Agreement. We look forward to the ratification of this vote by Iraq’s Presidency Council.

Taken together, these two agreements formalize a strong and equal partnership between the United States and Iraq. They provide the means to secure the significant security gains we have achieved together and to deter future aggression. They establish a framework for cooperation in the fields of defense, political relations, economics, trade, culture, education, the rule of law, health, the environment and science and technology.

We congratulate the Government of Iraq and its elected representatives for making these agreements possible.

(Report from a MNF-I news release.)

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US Airpower Summary; Nov. 27, 2008: A-10s Support Ground Forces

An A-10 Thunderbolt II, like this one, performs sorties daily providing top cover for ground forces in Southwest Asia. A-10s provide close-air support and employ a wide variety of conventional munitions, including general purpose bombs, cluster bombs units and laser guided bombs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Robert Wieland.)

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Nov. 27, 2008 -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 26, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, an Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II fired cannon rounds onto anti-Afghan forces who were firing rocket propelled grenades and mortars at coalition forces from behind a ridgeline in the vicinity of Nangalam. The mission was confirmed a success by the on-scene joint terminal attack controller.

In the vicinity of Shurakian, a coalition aircraft fired rockets against enemy forces who were attacking coalition members from a hillside. The JTAC declared the mission was successful.

Coalition aircraft conducted a show of force to deter enemy activities in the vicinity of Musa Qaleh. The mission was reported a success by the JTAC.

In the vicinity of Bagram, an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle performed a show of force and provided armed aerial overwatch to deter anti-Afghan forces from firing at coalition members who were conducting search operations. The JTAC confirmed the mission was successful.

A Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet conducted a show of force to deter enemy fighters and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition convoy in the vicinity of Tarin Kowt. The mission was declared a success by the JTACs.

In total, 69 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

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

In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 52 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt hostile activities.

Twenty- five 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 aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.

Approximately 130 airlift sorties were flown, more than 530 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 2,400 passengers were transported. The airlift included approximately 57,000 pounds of troop re-supply that was air-dropped in Afghanistan.

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

On Nov. 25, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 48 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.4 million pounds of fuel to 278 receiving aircraft.

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

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Combat Camera Video: Thanksgiving With the Troops

Thanksgiving B-Roll Afghanistan4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division; B-Roll of a Army Col. delivering Thanksgiving meals to a remote outpost and soldiers enjoying a Thanksgiving meal at a command outpost. Produced by Sgt. 1st Class Bill Valentine, Nov. 27, 2008.

Congressional Delegates Dine With Troops on ThanksgivingCombined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan; B-roll of congressional delegates having breakfast with servicemembers on Thanksgiving morning at Camp Eggers in Kabul, Afghanistan. Scenes include various delegates sitting, talking and eating with troops in the dining facility, posing for photos afterward and leaving. Produced by Petty Officer 1st Class Larry Baruwa, Nov. 27, 2008.

CSTC-A Thanksgiving CelebrationCombined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan; B-roll of troops celebrating Thanksgiving. Scenes include troops going through the food line at the dining facility and playing various games outdoors, Nov. 27, 2008.

Camp Echo Turkey Trot2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs; B-roll of soldiers participating in a Thanksgiving Day run at Camp Echo, Iraq. Scenes include the runners signing up for the run, running, receiving awards after the run and the female winner and one of the organizers of the run talking to a military reporter about the run. Produced by Pfc. Seth Barham, Nov. 27, 2008.

Thanksgiving FootageHeadquarters 18th Airborne Corps Public Affairs; B-roll of troops being served a Thanksgiving meal. Scenes include service members being served in a food line, sitting and eating together and standing in line and an interview with an officer about being away from home during Thanksgiving, Nov. 27, 2008.

Thanksgiving 4th ID Troops Playing FootballMulti-National Division Baghdad; B-roll of Troops playing football on Thanksgiving. Produced by Sgt.1st Class Jeffrey Hilton, Sgt. Kyle Pflieger and Spc. Daniel Turner, Nov. 27, 2008.

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Tags: DOD, Military, War, United States, U.S., al Qaeda, al Qaida, Taliban, GWOT, terrorism, Afghanistan, Operation Enduring Freedom, Middle East, Iraq, Operation, photography, photo, photos, pictures, images, photojournalism, Combat Camera, video, multimedia
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US Marines Explode the Unexploded

Unexploded ordnance is detonated by the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit's explosive ordnance disposal Marines shortly after being wired with C4 at a training site in the Middle East, Nov. 18, 2008. The MEU's EOD Marines safely cleared hundreds of pounds of unexploded ordnance found on a range, which was later to be used by the MEU's Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, for training. (Photo by Cpl. Jason D. Mills, 26th MEU.)

Sgts. Bill Lightner, Brandon Moore and Curtis Long (from left) place C4 on a pile of unexploded ordnance in a training site in the Middle East, Nov. 18, 2008. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit's explosive ordnance disposal Marines safely cleared hundreds of pounds of unexploded ordnance found on a firing range, which was later to be used by the MEU's Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, for training. (Photo by Cpl. Jason D. Mills, 26th MEU.)

The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit's explosive ordnance disposal Marines safely cleared hundreds of pounds of unexploded ordnance found on a firing range, which was later to be used by the MEU's Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, for training in the Middle East. (Photo by Cpl. Jason D. Mills, 26th MEU.)

Sgts. Bill Lightner, Brandon Moore and Curtis Long (from left) place C4 on a pile of unexploded ordnance in a training site in the Middle East, Nov. 18, 2008. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit's explosive ordnance disposal Marines safely cleared hundreds of pounds of unexploded ordnance found on a firing range, which was later to be used by the MEU's Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, for training. (Photo by Cpl. Jason D. Mills, 26th MEU.)

Gunnery Sgt. Steven Sheals, officer in charge of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit's explosive ordnance disposal detachment, explains the differences in each explosive to Gunnery Sgt. Jason Theis, maintenance chief for Combat Logistics Battalion-26, at a training site in the Middle East, Nov. 18, 2008. The unexploded ordnance was disposed of in order to ensure a safe training environment for the MEU's Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 2/6. (Photo by Cpl. Jason D. Mills, 26th MEU.)

Markers show where piles of unexploded ordnance were located. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit's explosive ordnance disposal Marines safely cleared hundreds of pounds of unexploded ordnance that was found on a range, which was later to be used by the MEU's Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, for training in a site in the Middle East. (Photo by Cpl. Jason D. Mills, 26th MEU.)

Markers show where piles of unexploded ordnance were located. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit's explosive ordnance disposal Marines safely cleared hundreds of pounds of unexploded ordnance that was found on a range, which was later to be used by the MEU's Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, for training in a site in the Middle East. (Photo by Cpl. Jason D. Mills, 26th MEU.)

Sgt. Curtis Long, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, explains how, why and what to expect in a crater formed by an explosion to (from left) Lance Cpl. Anthony Larchergore, Capt. Joni Ong and Lance Cpl. Charles Wiggins, at a training site in the Middle East, Nov. 18, 2008. The MEU's EOD Marines safely cleared hundreds of pounds of unexploded ordnance that was found on a range, which was later to be used by the MEU's Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, for training. (Photo by Cpl. Jason D. Mills, 26th MEU.)

Focus on Defense:

MIDDLE EAST, Nov. 26, 2008 -- While looking into the vast expanse of the desert, it’s hard to fathom anyone spending more than a few minutes out there, let alone working with unexploded ordnance (UXO) for hours, if not days, on end.

That’s just what eight explosive ordnance technicians, one radio operator and one Navy corpsman from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit did from Nov. 14-17. For four days straight the team combed the seemingly endless desert in the Middle East for any potentially hazardous UXO.

“This range is huge,” commented Gunnery Sgt. Steven Sheals, the explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) detachment officer-in-charge.

The range sweep was an essential step in ensuring the safety of the range for future exercises.

“We’re conducting surface range clearing to ensure there are no UXO range hazards out here for when the [Battalion Landing Team] comes out here for their training,” Sheals said.

He continued, “By removing the UXOs we remove that hazard to make the range safe.”

After four long days of walking up and down the range, the team consolidated all of the UXO they found and safely detonated it.

“This detachment that I have here has a wealth of knowledge; most of the guys have two or more deployments in the [Operation Iraqi Freedom] theater,” he said, adding his Marines work from sunup till sundown to complete the mission. He said they are given a task and a timetable, and if that means they have to work all day for days on end to get the mission done, then that’s what they do.

In the end, the entire course of action focused on safety; not only the safety of those detonating the UXO, but ultimately, on the safety of those who would come after the detonations were long extinguished.

“You have to do your best to make sure no one gets hurt during training,” said Sgt. Robert Pippin, an EOD technician. "We’re trying to make the range a safer place for when the BLT comes out here to do their training tomorrow and for the rest of the week."

The 26th MEU is currently forward deployed aboard the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group in the Arabian Gulf in support of local operations.

(Report by Cpl. Jason D. Mills, 26th MEU.)

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