US Soldiers Field-Test MRAPs, X-Bots, Boomerangs in Iraq

Pfc. Joshua Hunter from the 10th Mtn. Div. who serves as a quick reaction force gunner communicates with the MRAP driver during training conducted at Camp Victory Jan. 1. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Amber Emery.)

Focus on Defense:

BAGHDAD, Jan. 7, 2009 -- Operation Iraqi Freedom is helping create a whole new way of fielding force protection products beginning with the mine-resistant ambush protected vehicle which has saved lives and greatly reduced combat injuries to Soldiers on patrol.

"We're getting the fielded pieces out to the Soldiers immediately. When roadside bomb attacks were on the rise in Iraq, Soldiers found themselves in need of vehicles that could resist the threat," said Lt. Col. Steven Brewer, force integration officer for Multi-National Division Center.

"We are doing stuff going immediately from concept to implementation in less than a year out here, so we are taking a lot of short cuts and doing a lot of pieces after the fact. Then, we just keep improving it and testing it.

Because of the rushed need for the MRAP, four companies were manufacturing them. Additionally, six of 12 models passed the initial testing with the Army eventually choosing four. Since the first four models, there have been three generations of improvements, essentially creating 12 versions of the vehicle. A simulated MRAP roll-over trainer, similar to the Humvee egress assistance trainer currently being used by service members, is also in development.

"The MRAP fielding will probably go down as the granddaddy of all fieldings," said Brewer. "We are completing the final MRAP fieldings in January, which consist of the explosively formed projectile (EFP) protected version of the vehicle."

A process that can take at best five years or longer to fulfill, took roughly eight months to reach more than 50 percent of the units in need.

"We don't have time to wait for that five-year process. We need the stuff while we are still here, so we've come up with this abbreviated process," said Brewer.

A wide variety of new equipment is making its way to units in the field.

One much-awaited piece of technology is the X-Bot, which is a self contained robotic system capable of investigating suspected IEDs in various locations.

"The X-Bot fits between the seats in a Humvee so if you come across something that looks suspicious, you can throw it out there, and it moves pretty fast - so it is definitely a good piece of equipment to have," said Brewer.

Fielding is the process of identifying a mission requirement and fulfilling it with some form of technology - whether new or already existing.

"That's kind of how you end up with a Humvee over a jeep," Brewer said.

Portable walk-through metal detectors for entry control points; the Boomerang system, which can detect the direction of sniper fire and shoot back; Wolfclaw and new types of sensors, which can improve finding IEDs along the road, are just a few other pieces of equipment currently undergoing the fielding process.

There are three different ways equipment is introduced into the fielding process. One way is for a unit commander to submit an operational needs statement, which identifies a capability gap for which there is a material solution. Another way is for Soldiers in the field to identify something and submit a rapid equipping force report. Lastly, companies may visit Soldiers in the field to help in developing ideas for equipment.

"What comes out of the fielding is a capabilities and limitations sheet, which tells you what the machine can and can't do and then a safety release, which states whether it is safe to use this product in these circumstances," said Brewer.

To start, fieldings cover only what is necessary to complete missions, while the extra bells and whistles can be added later. As soon as the equipment is available, it is shipped to Iraq. The technology is then integrated to see how well it incorporates with the overall mission. A sustainment system is developed - such as the technical manual and maintenance training. Supply issues are also considered. Finally, Soldiers learn how to use the new equipment at a centralized location before taking it back to their units.

(Report by Staff Sgt. Michel Sauret and Staff Sgt. Amber Emery.)

Tags: DOD, Military, Focus On Defense, United States, U.S., Open Thread
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

USS George HW Bush Crew Preps for Commissioning

In this file photo, Airman Ryan Miller, left, Quartermaster 1st Class Christopher Dorner and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Ryan Jones, assigned to the aircraft carrier Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) prepare to be the first crewmembers to hoist the American flag over the fantail of the aircraft carrier, August 8, 2008. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Nicholas Hall.)

Focus on Defense:

NORFOLK, Jan. 7, 2009 -- Thousands of U.S. Navy Sailors are polishing, painting and preparing to commission the newest Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Jan. 10.

The former president and ship's namesake along with his son, President George W. Bush, will attend the ceremony pierside as the nuclear-powered vessel prepares to join the U.S. Atlantic Fleet as one of the largest warships sailing the globe.

"This is the payoff for all the hard work," said Electronics Technician 1st Class Robert Feathers of San Bernardino, Calif.

Sailors have a wide-range of duties to welcome thousands, from driving buses to transport guests while at Naval Station Norfolk to coordinate the logistics of the visits of high-level dignitaries to bringing hundreds aboard the massive warship for tours.

"It's pretty much like a small town and everybody is working together to serve one purpose," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Nekeia Borders of Dallas, Texas.

"I couldn't pass up the chance to [pre-commission] a ship that I share the same last name with," said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class James Bush, of Sebastopol, Calif., who is not related to the ship's namesake. He'll help coordinate a fleet of 55 buses and five extra vehicles to transport thousands of guests to the ceremony at the ocean side base.

Aviation Electrician's Mate 2nd Class Duston Dean, a native of Pascagoula, Miss. and a veteran of five carriers, said serving aboard Bush will be different than any other.

Sailors on Navy ships are expected to maintain standards, he said, but Bush Sailors have a rare opportunity to do more as the first crew.

"Here, we're setting the standard," he said. "We're making the ship what it's going to be from now. I'm very proud to be a plank owner."

Machinist's Mate 1st Class Larry Harris, of Narrows, Va. shares the same pride as commissioning day beckons. "It's something I'll cherish for the rest of my life, I'm sure," he said. "It'll be the highlight of my career."

Lt. Erik Coplin, a nuclear reactor officer, served aboard attack submarines before joining the ship's crew on the carrier.

The differences between a submarine with a 150-Sailor crew and his new warship with an eventual population of more than 5,500 are "phenomenal," he said.

"Just to think of the mass size of the ship and try to put it together it's amazing and exciting," said the Flint, Mich. native. "As a salt, I want to really shake the ship and get back to sea."

(Report by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Barrie Barber, U.S. Fleet Forces Command Public Affairs.)

Tags: DOD, Military, Focus On Defense, United States, U.S., Open Thread
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

US Army Issues Apology for Letter Error

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2009 -- The Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. George W. Casey, Jr., is sending a personal letter to 7,000 families who received improperly addressed correspondence from the Army.

The U.S. Army is apologizing and correcting a printing error that resulted in approximately 7,000 letters being sent to family members who lost a soldier in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The letter did not contain a specific by-name salutation and address, but merely a placeholder greeting, "Dear John Doe." The letter, which was printed by a contractor and mailed in late December 2008, informed family members about private organizations offering assistance to families of soldiers who have died in OEF/OIF. The letter was sent from the U.S. Army Human Resources Command's Casualty and Mortuary Affairs Center in Alexandria, Va., which subsequently issued a formal apology today.

"There are no words to adequately apologize for this mistake or for the hurt it may have caused," Brig. Gen. Reuben D. Jones, The Army Adjutant General, wrote in a Jan. 7, 2009 message. "It is important the original intent of the letter is not lost. The organizations mentioned are dedicated to honoring loved ones and recognizing their sacrifice and commitment."

(Report from a U.S. Army news release.)

Tags: Open Thread, Wire, Headlines, DOD, Military, War, United States, U.S., News in Balance
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

US Navy Submarine Force Announces Battle "E" Winners

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (Jan. 7, 2009) The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Chicago (SSN 721), awarded the 2008 Submarine Squadron Three (CSS 3) Battle Efficiency (Battle E) award for continual mission readiness, leaves Naval Station Pearl Harbor for a scheduled six-month deployment to the Western Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Luciano Marano.)

Focus on Defense:

NORFOLK, Jan. 7, 2009 -- Commander Submarine Force, and Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, announced the winners of the Battle Efficiency competition within the submarine force Jan. 1 in separate messages to the submarine fleet.

The prestigious Battle "E" is awarded annually to ships demonstrating a maximum condition of readiness for their class, and for their capability to perform wartime responsibilities. The competition is conducted to strengthen individual command performance, overall force readiness, and to recognize outstanding performance.

The Battle "E" awards for the submarine fleet are presented by the commodore of each submarine squadron to the submarine under their command which has demonstrated the highest level of battle readiness during the previous year.

The winners are:

Commander, Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 1 (Pearl Harbor) – USS Los Angeles (SSN 688);

SUBRON 2 (Groton, Conn.) – USS Providence (SSN 719);

SUBRON 3 (Pearl Harbor) – USS Chicago (SSN 721);

SUBRON 4 (New London) – USS Virginia (SSN 774);

Commander, Submarine Development Squadron 5 (Bangor, Wash) – USS Connecticut (SSN 22);

SUBRON 6 (Norfolk) – USS Montpelier (SSN 765);

SUBRON 7 (Pearl Harbor) – USS Columbus (SSN 762);

SUBRON 8 (Norfolk) – USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723);

SUBRON 11 (San Diego) – USS Topeka (SSN 754);

SUBDEVRON 12 (Groton) – USS Alexandria (SSN 757);

SUBRON 15 (Guam) – USS Buffalo (SSN 715);

SUBRON 16 (Kings Bay, Ga.) – USS Florida (SSGN 728);

SUBRON 17 (Bangor) – USS Pennsylvania (SSBN 735);

SUBRON 19 (Bangor) – USS Ohio (SSGN 726); and

SUBRON 20 (Kings Bay) – USS Maryland (SSBN 738).

The winners in submarine force special categories are: the torpedo retriever Swamp Fox (TWR 821) and the floating dry dock Arco (ARDM 5), both homeported in San Diego; the deep submergence research and ocean engineering submarine NR-1, homeported in Groton; and the submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40), homeported in Guam.

Los Angeles, Topeka, Frank Cable, Arco and Florida are repeat winners.

Submarine Force Master Chief Jeff Garrison said every crew member could take pride in their accomplishment.

"Being awarded the Battle "E" is a team accomplishment that every crew member can take a great deal of pride in," said Garrison. "Additionally, every Sailor on the winning boats can take personal pride in their accomplishments knowing that their individual contributions to the submarine's mission led to their boat being selected for this prestigious award. This is truly an award where outstanding individual effort leads to team success."

(Report by Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Dean Lohmeyer, Commander, Submarine Force Public Affairs.)

Tags: DOD, Military, Focus On Defense, GWOT, terrorism, United States, U.S., Open Thread, photography, photo, photos, pictures, images, photojournalism, Combat Camera, Navy, Marines, Marine Corps, USS Arlington, LPD 24
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

US Air Force Funded Researchers Study Bats to Enhance Micro Air Vehicles

Researchers from several universities are studying how the biological attributes of flapping and flexible flight demonstrated by birds, bats and insects can improve future micro air vehicle systems. This research has led to the creation of engineering models, such as the one illustrated in this graphic. (Courtesy graphic.)

Focus on Defense:

ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 7, 2009 -- U.S. Air Force-funded researchers from several universities are studying the flexible, flapping wings routinely used by bats and insects and mimicking their biological attributes to improve agility, speed and adaptability in micro air vehicle systems.

Air Force Office of Scientific Research officials here manage two projects on biologically-inspired flight.

Both are part of the 2007 Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative, which provides funding for topics that rely on expertise in multiple disciplines.

Dr. Kenny Breuer, a fluid mechanics professor from Brown University, and Dr. Wei Shyy, an aerospace engineering professor from the University of Michigan, each lead a Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative project. Though their respective teams focus on different biological and engineering aspects of this problem, they share the same overall goal of understanding bat flight and its potential applications to micro air vehicles.

"Future micro air vehicles will need to be agile, robust and maneuverable, and our research will provide some guidance as to how we might incorporate these features using inspiration from biology," Dr. Breuer said.

If successfully transitioned, this research could lead to small, remote controlled aircraft that can move in complex environments such as forests, interiors of buildings, caves or tunnels.

Birds, bats and insects have some highly varied mechanical properties that researchers have not incorporated in engineering, Dr. Shyy said.

"They're not only lighter, but they also have more adaptive structures," he said. "These natural flyers have outstanding capabilities to remain airborne through wind gusts, rain and snow."

Facing many of the same challenges posed by this complex, biological system, Dr. Breuer is working on a variety of efforts to unlock the mystery. One such effort involves capturing video footage of bats flying in a wind tunnel and measuring the fluid velocities in their wakes. Another involves studying flight properties in different environments and among different species of bats.

The results of these experiments and others have allowed Dr. Breuer to construct engineering models that mimic specific features found in bat flight.

His Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative partners from Oregon State University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Maryland are also doing innovative research. They are developing computational methods for simulating complex, moving, flexible structures; mapping the neurophysiology of bat sensor and motor systems; and creating control systems that might be of use in micro air vehicle technologies.

Dr. Shyy's team, comprised of faculty and students from the University of Michigan as well as colleagues from the Universities of Florida and Maryland, is focusing on hovering and forward flight modes of micro air vehicles.

"Birds, bats and insects can fly in turbulent environments with fast, unpredictable wind gusts," Dr. Shyy said. "Yet, they can react almost instantaneously and adapt with their flexible wings."

Knowing this, his team has placed particular emphasis on learning how and why flexible wing structures affect lift and thrust generation, especially in unsteady environments.

"If handled appropriately, flexible wing structures can delay stall, enhance stability and increase thrust," Dr. Shyy said.

(Report by by Molly Lachance, U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research.)

Tags: DOD, Military, Focus On Defense, United States, U.S., Open Thread, Air Force
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

OEF Summary; Jan. 7, 2009: Troops in Afghanistan Kill 38 Militants, Disrupt Bomb Networks

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2009 -- Coalition forces and Afghan commandos killed 38 militants and seized multiple weapons caches today and yesterday during operations to disrupt bomb networks in Afghanistan’s Farah and Laghman provinces.

Coalition forces and Afghan commandos today killed six militants during a raid on a compound in Farah province’s Kakhi Safyed district.

Among the militants killed were a leader believed to have conducted attacks on Afghan and coalition forces and the alleged chief bodyguard for a high-level Taliban commander. The bodyguard is suspected of providing bombs and bomb-making materials to militant forces in the province’s Bala Baluk district.

During the operation, militants engaged forces with small-arms fire from inside the compound. Forces returned fire, killing the militants, while protecting local residents.

A coalition soldier received a minor gunshot wound, and a commando was injured during the fight. The commando was evacuated to a local hospital for treatment. Both men are expected to recover. No civilian casualties were reported.

Forces later seized and destroyed a weapons cache that contained rocket-propelled grenades, AK-47 assault rifles, sniper-rifle systems, machine guns and ammunition.

Yesterday, coalition forces killed 32 armed insurgents and detained a suspected militant during an operation to disrupt the Taliban’s roadside bomb network in Laghman province.

Coalition forces were targeting a Taliban cell in Alishang district, northeast of the capital city of Kabul, suspected of carrying out roadside-bomb attacks against civilians and coalition forces throughout the region.

During the operation, about 75 armed militants engaged forces with small-arms fire from rooftops and alleyways. Coalition forces returned small-arms fire while protecting several villagers. No civilian casualties were reported.

Forces seized two large caches of weapons, explosives and other roadside bomb-making materials that included AK-47 assault rifles, rocket-propelled grenades, PKM machine guns and blocks of explosives bundled together. The forces destroyed the caches.

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

Tags: DOD, Military, War, United States, U.S., Afghanistan, Operation Enduring Freedom, OEF, al Qaeda, al Qaida, GWOT, terrorism, Taliban, Open Thread, Wire, Headlines, Dispatches from the Front
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

OIF Summary; Jan. 7, 2009: Troops in Iraq Nab Criminals, Seize Weapons Caches

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2009 -- U.S. soldiers and Iraqi forces detained two suspected criminals and seized several weapons caches in Iraq yesterday and Jan. 5.

U.S. soldiers and Iraqi security forces yesterday arrested two men suspected of attacking coalition forces in southern Baghdad’s Rashid district.

In other operations yesterday:

• Iraqi and U.S. soldiers discovered roadside bomb-making materials in Baghdad’s Saydiyah neighborhood. Iraqi soldiers transported the materials to their headquarters for disposal.

• U.S. soldiers and Iraqi police seized a weapons cache in Baghdad’s Aamel community consisting of a hand grenade, two explosive batteries, two speakers with speaker wire and a router. The police officers brought the items to a nearby Iraqi National Police headquarters for disposal.

• U.S. and Iraqi soldiers discovered five 81 mm mortar rounds in Baghdad’s Jihad community. An explosive ordnance disposal unit disposed of the munitions.

• Iraqi and U.S. soldiers confiscated a weapons cache in Baghdad’s Kadamiyah district that included three 60 mm mortars, a partial mortar tube, two rocket-propelled grenade warheads, a rifle and two fuses.

In Jan. 5 operations:

• Iraqi National Police and U.S. soldiers confiscated four hand grenades in the Aamel community.

• A tip led Iraqi soldiers to a weapons cache in Diyala province, northeast of Baghdad, that included six rocket-propelled grenade launchers, about 50 RPG warheads, a 130 mm round with fuse, a 122 mm rocket, about 50 rockets, a machine gun with several cases of rounds, detonation cord, bomb-making materials, small-arms rifles with rounds and bipods, and three Iraqi police vests.

(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)

Tags: DOD, War, Military, GWOT, terrorism, al Qaeda, al Qaida, Middle East, Operation Iraqi Freedom, OIF, United States, U.S., coalition, Iraq, Dispatches from the Front, Multinational Force
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

US Airpower Summary; Jan. 7, 2009: F-15s Bomb Targets

An Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle touches down after a mission in Southwest Asia. The F-15Es and other coalition aircraft flew 68 close-air-support missions in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols Jan. 6. (U.S. Air Force photo.)

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Jan. 7, 2009 -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations Jan. 6, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs dropped guided bomb unit-38s and fired cannon rounds against an anti-Afghan machine gun crew attacking coalition forces in the vicinity of Sheykhabad. The missions were confirmed successful by the on-scene joint terminal attack controllers.

Near Sangin, a Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet dropped a GBU-38 onto anti-Afghan forces attacking a coalition foot patrol. In addition, Navy F/A-18Es performed shows of force expending flares and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition ground force patrol conducting operations in the same area. The JTACs declared the missions successful.

An Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle conducted a show of force to deter anti-Afghan forces and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition ground convoy assessing washout damage to a road near Monari. The mission was reported successful by the JTAC.

In the vicinity of Nangalam and near Lashkar Gah, an A-10 and a Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet executed shows of force to deter enemy activity. The JTACs declared the missions successful.

An F-15E conducted a show of force to deter enemy forces and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition infantry patrol scouting a ridgeline near Bagram. The mission was declared a success by the JTAC.

Over the Ghazni area, an A-10 performed a show of force expending flares while providing aerial overwatch for a coalition convoy conducting a counter-improvised explosive device sweep. The JTAC reported the mission a success.

An F-15E and an F/A-18F conducted shows of force while performing armed overwatch for coalition convoys near Balocan and Nurestan. The missions were deemed successful by the JTAC.

In total, 68 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

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

In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 43 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-four Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, three Air Force 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 120 airlift sorties were flown, more than 350 tons of cargo were delivered, and nearly 3,200 passengers were transported. This included approximately 120,000 pounds of troop resupply that was air-dropped in Afghanistan.

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

On Jan. 5, Air Force and coalition tankers flew 51 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.6 million pounds of fuel to 314 receiving aircraft.

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

Tags: DOD, Military, War, United States, U.S., al Qaeda, al Qaida, GWOT, terrorism, Taliban, Open Thread, Wire, Headlines, Dispatches from the Front
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

AFP: Obama Expected to Openly Welcome Gays into US Military

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Jan 7, 2008 -- According to an AFP news report written by Daphne Benoit published Wednesday, the U.S. armed forces under Barack Obama is expected to give homosexuals the same welcome as heterosexuals.

President Clinton's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," policy allowed gays to remain in the military so long as they did not reveal their sexual orientation.

Obama has pledged to change the current law.

"The key test for military service should be patriotism, a sense of duty, and a willingness to serve. Discrimination should be prohibited," reads an entry on Obama's president-elect transition Web site.

A recent poll of active duty servicemembers by the Military Times points to Obama's lack of leaderships experience, particularly when it comes to matters involving the military, to explain U.S. troops' general pessimism and wariness of the president-elect.

Democratic lawmaker Ellen Tauscher from California is the lead sponsor in the House of Representatives of the Military Readiness Enhancement Act (MREA) which would replace "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."

A poll of some 2,000 active duty military taken in December by the Military Times found that 58 percent opposed the policy of non-discrimination against homosexuals. Twenty-nine percent said they approved the change.

However, lack of support is no reason stop a change of the law, opponents said.

One opponent also compared the issue to racism. "There will always be some people who will prefer the status quo, but people who preferred segregated units (banned in the U.S. military in 1948) didn't leave the military by and large," notes Aubrey Sarvis, director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, an organization promoting the end of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."

(Report from commercial media sources.)

Source: Obama era expected to end taboo on gays in US military

Related: Military Times: US Troops Wary of Obama

Tags: Open Thread, Wire, Headlines, DOD, Military, War, United States, U.S., News in Balance
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

Video: USS George HW Bush Christening

In this file photo, Doro Bush Koch, left, daughter of former President George H.W. Bush, joins her father, second from left, Mike Petters, of Northrup Grumman, second from right, and President Bush, right, as they wave to the crowd after the christening of the nuclear aircraft carrier George H.W. Bush at the shipyard in Newport News, Va., Saturday, October 7, 2006. (U.S. Navy photo.)

Focus on Defense:

Editor's note: The christening (naming) ceremony held October 7, 2006, is not the same as the commissioning ceremony held January 10, 2009.

Updated Articles:
Photo Essay: USS George HW Bush Commissioning Ceremony
US Navy Commissions USS George HW Bush
Jan. 10, 2009; Streaming Video: USS George HW Bush Commissioning Ceremony
Former President George HW Bush Tours New Namesake Supercarrier
USS George HW Bush Crew Preps for Commissioning
The Hill: US Navy Delays Decision on Homeport of Supercarrier

WASHINGTON, Jan 7, 2009 -- The U.S. Navy's newest nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George H. W. Bush will be commissioned Saturday, Jan. 10, 2009, during an 11 a.m. EST ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Va.

President George W. Bush will deliver the principal address. Dorothy "Doro" Bush Koch, daughter of the ship's namesake, is the ship's sponsor. In the time-honored Navy tradition, she will give the order to "man our ship and bring her to life!"

Linked below in 12 parts are Windows Media Video (WMV) recordings released January 6 2009 of the christening that took place October 7, 2008.

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 1
High ranking official talks to a military reporter in Norfolk, Va. about unique aspects of the USS George H.W. Bush , the ship's effectiveness, the extensive training of crew and the christening ceremony. Part 1 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 2
Capt. Roth talks to a military reporter in Norfolk, Va. about unique aspects of the USS Bush, the ship's effectiveness, the extensive training of crew and the christening ceremony. Part 2 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 3
Capt. Roth talks to a military reporter in Norfolk, Va. about unique aspects of the USS Bush, the ship's effectiveness, the extensive training of crew and the christening ceremony. Part 3 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 4
B-roll of the USS Bush at port. Scenes include shots of the ship and crew painting the anchor gold. Part 4 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 5
B-roll of the USS George H.W. Bush at port. Scenes include the ship being prepared for it's christening. Part 5 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 6
B-roll of the USS George H.W. Bush at port. Scenes include the ship being prepared for it's christening. Part 6 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 7
B-roll of the USS George H.W. Bush at port. Scenes include the ship being prepared for it's christening. Part 7 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 8
B-roll of the Tribute Room on board the USS George H.W. Bush. Scenes include shots of the various exhibits inside the Tribute Room. Part 8 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 9
B-roll of the Tribute Room on board the USS George H.W. Bush. Scenes include shots of the various exhibits inside the Tribute Room. Part 9 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 10
Sailors on the crew of the USS George H.W. Bush talk to a military reporter about how they got to be on the crew, their duties on the ship, their reasons for joining the Navy and their hometowns. Part 10 of 12. Close ups. See part 11 for the wide shot of this interview. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 11
Sailors on the crew of the USS George H.W. Bush talk to a military reporter about how they got to be on the crew, their duties on the ship, their reasons for joining the Navy and their hometowns. Part 11 of 12. Wide shot. See part 10 for the close up shots of this interview. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

USS George H.W. Bush Christening, Part 12
Lt. Copeland talks to a military reporter in Norfolk, Va. about his role in bringing the USS George H.W. Bush to life, the progress of his mission and compares his past experience with this new ship. Mr. Harris talks about what he learned about President George H.W. Bush, his duties on the ship, and a short interview with another Sailor. Part 12 of 12. (Submitting Unit: Defense Media Activity.)

More Military Imagery on THE TENSION

Tags: War, Military, terrorism, Middle East, Operation Iraqi Freedom, United States, coalition, photography, photo, photos, pictures, images, photojournalism, Combat Camera, Navy, video, multimedia
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

Combat Camera: Wolfhounds Keep Patrolling Around Baghdad

In the Rashidiyah Nahia, soldiers from Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, currently attached to 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., Multi-National Division – Baghdad, check out a building to see what it would take to refurbish it for future use, Dec. 28, 2008. (Photographer: Brad Willeford, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

Pfc. Dylan Guell, an Eden, Wis., native, talks with several children during a patrol in the Rashidiyah Nahia, Dec. 28, 2008. Guell serves as a infantryman with Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, currently attached to 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., Multi-National Division–Baghdad. (Photographer: Brad Willeford, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

1st Lt. Louis Cascino, a Windsor, N.Y., native, walks with members of the Rashidiyah Nahia’s Emergency Response Unit during a combined patrol of the neighborhood, Dec. 28, 2008. Cascino serves as a infantry platoon leader for Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, currently attached to 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., Multi-National Division – Baghdad. (Photographer: Brad Willeford, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

Staff Sgt. David Ni, a San Gabriel, Calif., native, hands out candy to children during a patrol in the Rashidiyah Nahia , Dec. 28, 2008. Ni is a infantry squad leader with Company B, 52nd Infantry Regiment, attached to the 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, currently attached to 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., Multi-National Division – Baghdad. (Photographer: Brad Willeford, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

Staff Sgt. David Ni, a San Gabriel, Calif., native, watches as his men establish security during a patrol in the Rashidiyah Nahia of northern Baghdad, Dec. 28, 2008. Ni is an infantry squad leader with Company B, 52nd Infantry Regiment, attached to the 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, currently attached to 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., Multi-National Division – Baghdad. (Photographer: Brad Willeford, Multi-National Division Baghdad.)

More Combat Camera Imagery on THE TENSION

Tags: DOD, Military, War, United States, U.S., Army, Middle East, Iraq, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Multinational Force, al Qaeda, al Qaida, GWOT, terrorism, Photography, photo, photos, pictures, images, photojournalism, Combat Camera, Stryker Brigade
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

Troops in Afghanistan Shut Down Bomb Network, Kill 32

Dispatches from the Front:

KABUL, Afghanistan, Jan. 7, 2009 -- Coalition forces killed 32 armed insurgents including one female, detained one suspected militant and destroyed two large caches of weapons, explosives and roadside bomb materials during an operation to disrupt the Taliban’s roadside bomb network in Laghman province, Jan. 6.

In Alishang District, approximately 100 km northeast of Kabul City, coalition forces targeted a Taliban roadside bomb cell responsible for numerous attacks throughout the region. The targeted Taliban network was involved in planning, building and emplacing roadside bombs as well as attacks against civilian and coalition forces throughout 2008.

During the operation, as many as 75 armed militants exited their compounds and attempted to converge on the force. Shooting from rooftops and alleyways, the militants engaged coalition forces with small-arms fire in the village. Despite the threat, coalition forces exercised great control of their fires and did not escalate the engagement with close-air support or artillery inside the village, choosing to fight through the skirmish with small-arms fire to minimize the potential for innocent causalities.

Maneuvering under enemy fire, coalition forces carefully escorted eight women and 16 children away from engagement and protected them from the reckless small-arms fire militants sprayed throughout the village.

As the firefight continued, coalition forces searched the targeted buildings looking for the wanted militant. The search yielded two large caches of weapons, explosives and other roadside bomb-making material to include: AK-47s, rocket-propelled grenades, PKM machine guns and many blocks of explosives bundled together.

Because of the unstable nature of these explosive munitions, coalition forces had no other option but to destroy the caches in place. After moving the women, children and locals living in surrounding structures to a safe location, coalition forces destroyed the cache. Secondary blasts from the unstable explosives destroyed the building they were hidden in.

“Coalition forces exercised great restraint and prevented any civilian casualties at the same time the enemy placed the whole village in harms way by operating the way they do,” said Col Jerry O’Hara, a U.S. Forces-Afghanistan spokesperson. “Removal of these militants and their weapon caches prevented countless roadside bombs while protecting more than 60,000 innocent Afghans of Alishang District from the Taliban’s indiscriminate killing.”

(From a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release.)

Tags: DOD, Military, War, United States, U.S., Afghanistan, Operation Enduring Freedom, OEF, al Qaeda, al Qaida, GWOT, terrorism, Taliban, Open Thread, Wire, Headlines, Dispatches from the Front
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

Top US Defense Leaders Thank Bush for Dedication to Troops

U.S. Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, President George W. Bush and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates stand during the Armed Forces Full Honor Farewell to the President on Fort Myer, Va., Jan. 6, 2009. (Photo by U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jerry Morrison.)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Jan. 6, 2009 -- The top Defense Department leaders honored President George W. Bush today at a farewell ceremony for his deep commitment to the men and women in uniform and their families and the trust he instilled as he led them through challenging times.


Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, joined Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in praising Bush during the armed forces farewell ceremony at Fort Myer, Va.

“In my 44 years of wearing this uniform, I have never seen the American public and our military as bonded in understanding, purpose and spirit as I do right now,” Mullen told Bush. “For this, Mr. President, we owe you our greatest gratitude.”

Gates said Bush fostered that close relationship throughout his presidency.

“The president’s deep regard and affection for our servicemembers and their families has played out in ways big and small,” he said. Gates pointed to examples: “surprise visits to Iraq and Afghanistan to shake hands and high-five [troops], … personal phone calls to those deployed over Thanksgiving, and even the occasional chest bump to unwary cadets.”

As he sent troops into harm’s way, Bush never hid from the human consequences of his decisions, Gates said. He made countless visits to wounded warriors at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the National Naval Medical Center and other military hospitals. He and first lady Laura Bush also met with thousands of family members of wounded and fallen troops.

Gates recalled Bush’s visit with Army Staff Sgt. Michael McNaughton, a Louisiana National Guardsman being treated at Walter Reed after losing his leg to a land mine in Afghanistan. The president suggested that the two go for a run after McNaughton received his prosthetic leg, and carried through with the plan several months later on a track around the White House’s South Lawn.

“A single promise to a single soldier. A small act that reflects President Bush’s commitment to care for and honor every member of the armed forces,” Gates said.

“Mr. President, every day these volunteers execute your orders with courage and determination – facing down danger for the greater good of America,” he continued. “On behalf of more than 2 million men and women in uniform, we are deeply grateful for your leadership and service to America in a time of war.”

Mullen thanked the president and Mrs. Bush for embracing the military family, and particularly those who have sacrificed heavily in the war on terror.

“You have proven that how well we care for our wounded and the families of the fallen defines who and what we really are as a nation,” he said. “You made it personal, and that has made all the difference.”

Some of the most powerful accolades during the ceremony came not from the leaders, but from the troops themselves.

Mullen shared thoughts penned by several deployed servicemembers in a journal he and his wife, Deborah, carried with them during recent troop visits overseas.

“Mr. President, thank you and your family for your service. I am proud to serve under you, sir,” wrote Army Staff Sgt. Ward from Queens, N.Y. Like several who signed the journal, he did not include his first name.

“You are awesome, and made a difference in the world,” Ward wrote.

Army Lt. Col. Scott Raney, deployed to Baghdad, extended his thanks to Mrs. Bush. “Your class and dignity were an inspiration to us all,” he wrote.

The writing of Air Force Master Sgt. Michael Fraser brought levity to the ceremony as he referred to a shoe-throwing incident in Iraq last month.

“Sir, nice to see that our president is still quick on his feet after eight years in office,” Fraser wrote, bringing an outburst of laughter as Mullen read it at the ceremony. "Next time, pick up the shoe and throw it back,” he continued. “We got your back."

Army Sgt. 1st Class Claude Cory from Waco, Texas, turned the tone serious. “Sir, you truly set the standard to uphold the peace and our very way of life so our kids can grow up in a peaceful world,” he wrote. “We will always stand tall, one great nation and one great state, Texas.”

Other servicemembers, who signed the journal simply as “Your soldiers,” thanked Bush for his “service, example and leadership.”

“We have not faltered. We will not fail,” the anonymous servicemember continued. “With greatest respect and honor, we serve."

Mullen called the troop messages a sign of the deep mutual respect between Bush and the 2.4 million military men and women, as well as their families.

“Those voices are an answering volley to you for your high regard and great respect for every single man and woman who serves this nation,” he said.

Gates presented the president and Mrs. Bush several awards in appreciation of their service. To Bush, he presented the Department of Defense Distinguished Public Service Award, U.S. Army Decoration for Distinguished Civilian Service, U.S. Navy Distinguished Public Service Award, U.S. Air Force Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service, and U.S. Coast Guard Distinguish Public Service Award.

The secretary presented Mrs. Bush the Department of Defense Outstanding Public Service Award.

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

Related: Military Times: US Troops Wary of Obama

Tags: Open Thread, Wire, Headlines, War, Military, United States, U.S., News in Balance
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension

US Airpower Summary; Jan. 6, 2009: Predator Hammers Target

Avionics mechanics Jonathan Hagy and Russell Gordy work on an MQ-1 Predator unmanned aerial vehicle at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. The Predator provides armed reconnaissance, airborne surveillance and target acquisition for Iraq. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jonathan Steffen.)

Dispatches from the Front:

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Jan. 6, 2009 -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations Jan. 5, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, an Air Force MQ-1B Predator used Hellfire missiles and a Navy F/A-18C Hornet dropped a guided bomb unit-38 against anti-Afghan forces firing mortars from a compound against coalition forces in the vicinity of Tarin Kowt. The missions were confirmed successful by on-scene joint terminal attack controllers.

Near Ghazni, an Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II performed a show of force expending flares and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition convoy conducting operations in the area. The JTACs declared the missions successful.

In total, 69 close-air-support missions were flown in support 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 overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt hostile activities.

Twenty-seven Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, three Air Force 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 420 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 2,700 passengers were transported. This included approximately 24,000 pounds of troop resupply that was air-dropped in Afghanistan.

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

On Jan. 4, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 43 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.2 million pounds of fuel to 270 receiving aircraft.

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

Tags: DOD, Military, War, United States, U.S., al Qaeda, al Qaida, GWOT, terrorism, Taliban, Open Thread, Wire, Headlines, Dispatches from the Front
Global Tags: Washington DC, News and Politics, News, Politics, Current Events, Current Affairs, Life, Culture, Buzz, Tension