Pentagon News Brief: Obama, Other Leaders Receive Afghan Resources Request

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 2009 -- As President Barack Obama and senior defense and national security leaders convened meetings today on the way forward in Afghanistan, they finally did so with the addition of Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal’s list of requested resources, the Pentagon press secretary said.

Obama received a copy of McChrystal’s request for resources late last week from Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, Geoff Morrell told reporters here today.

On Monday, Gates also provided copies of the resource request to senior White House officials, to include National Security Council members, he said.

Obama wanted a copy of the report to read over the weekend, Morrell said.

The Afghanistan resources request is now formally working its way through the U.S. military and NATO chains of command, he said.

Morrell referred to the copies provided to Obama and other senior White House officials as “informal” documents that didn’t bear official comments of review or vetting from senior civilian and military leaders. Those leaders, he said, include Gates; Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of U.S. Central Command, which oversees operations in Afghanistan.

However, all of the Pentagon’s top leaders, to include Petraeus and McChrystal, have been closely involved in White House discussions on the way ahead in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Morrell pointed out. The White House hosted the first of a series of strategy meetings on Sept. 30.

A second such meeting was held today, Morrell said, with another slated for Friday.

Gates likely decided to hold onto the resource assessment until directed otherwise by the president, Morrell suggested, to limit the possibility of leaking information, such as occurred earlier with McChrystal’s assessment on the situation in Afghanistan.

Everyone concerned, Morrell emphasized, will have an opportunity to “weigh-in” with their opinions.

“Obviously, this has been a slightly unconventional process and an informal copy as I mentioned bypassed the chain of command at the secretary’s request, so he could own it and could therefore make decisions about where it should go, when it should go,” he said.

Today marks the eighth anniversary of the start of Operation Enduring Freedom, which removed the Taliban from power in Afghanistan.

“We have seen our amazing military men and women adapt to and overcome daunting terrain, harsh conditions and an agile and ruthless enemy,” Morrell said of the U.S. military effort in Afghanistan.

Nearly 800 Americans have died in military operations in and around Afghanistan since the war began, Morrell said. He cited the deaths of eight U.S. soldiers who died there last weekend during an enemy assault on a remote outpost in Nurestan province.

“Our thoughts are with their families and all families who have sacrificed so much in Operation Enduring Freedom,” he said.

Located near the border with Pakistan, the outpost was slated to be closed, Morrell said, as part of McChrystal’s counterinsurgency strategy to move U.S. troops closer to major Afghan population centers.

An investigation into circumstances surrounding the attack is ongoing, Morrell said. The enemy, he said, paid dearly, losing 100 fighters during the assault and in its aftermath.

Turning to other defense matters, Morrell said the Pentagon is developing a conventional 30,000 pound, massive ordnance penetrator bomb designed to pulverize underground facilities that may store weapons of mass destruction and related systems. The bomb, he said, should be ready for deployment in the coming months.

“This has been a capability that we have long believed was missing from our quiver or our arsenal,” Morrell said, “and we wanted to make sure we filled in that gap.”

There is no specific target list for the new weapon, Morrell emphasized.

The bomb “is just a capability that we think is necessary, given the world we live in these days,” he said.

(From a report by Gerry J. Gilmore, American Forces Press Service.)

Pentagon Identifies Army Casualty (OEF)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 2009 -- The following news release made available Wednesday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement identifying a casualty:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Spc. Kevin O. Hill, 23, of Brooklyn, N.Y., died Oct. 4 at Contingency Outpost Dehanna, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit using small arms and indirect fires. He was assigned to the 576th Mobility Augmentation Company, Fort Carson, Colo.

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

OEF Summary, Oct. 7, 2009: Joint Forces Disrupt Insurgents in Afghanistan

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 2009 -- NATO and Afghan troops detained several militants and destroyed weapons and drug caches in separate operations in Afghanistan today and yesterday, military officials reported.

In Wardak province, several militants were killed and a suicide vest was destroyed as forces searched a compound known to be used by a Taliban group. During the operation, the joint forces came under hostile fire.

In the same province, troops conducted a separate search yesterday without incident. During the search, several AK-47 rifles and ammunition were discovered and destroyed.

Separately, in Helmand province, several militants were detained and 115 pounds of black tar heroin was destroyed.

Meanwhile in a Khowst operation yesterday, two Taliban militants were captured and more AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition were discovered and destroyed both there and in a separate incident in Kabul.

(Compiled from NATO International Security Assistance Force news releases.)

Pentagon Identifies 8 Army Casualties (OEF)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 2009 -- The following news release made available Wednesday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement identifying casualties:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of eight soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Oct. 3 in Kamdesh, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their contingency outpost with small arms, rocket-propelled grenade and indirect fires. They were assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.

Killed were:

• Staff Sgt. Vernon W. Martin, 25 of Savannah, Ga.

• Sgt. Justin T. Gallegos, 27, of Tucson, Ariz.

• Sgt. Joshua M. Hardt, 24, of Applegate, Calif.

• Sgt. Joshua J. Kirk, 30, of South Portland, Maine.

• Sgt. Michael P. Scusa, 22, of Villas, N.J.

• Spc. Christopher T. Griffin, 24, of Kincheloe, Mich.

• Spc. Stephan L. Mace, 21, of Lovettsville, Va.

• Pfc. Kevin C. Thomson, 22, of Reno, Nev.

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

US Navy Secretary Says Women Will "Soon" Serve on Submarines

News from the U.S. Navy.
Focus on Defense:

EDITOR'S NOTE: Since when did Comedy Central’s, "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" become a clearing house for serious military news? Read on....

WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 2009 -- Navy Secretary Ray Mabus yesterday said women soon will serve on submarines, suggesting a reversal of the long-standing ban by the Navy.

Appearing on Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart,” Mabus signaled that the Navy is moving closer to allowing coed personnel on submarines.

“It will take a little while because you’ve got to interview people and you’ve got to be nuclear trained,” he said, referring to prerequisite steps before a sailor is assigned to a submarine.

Officials previously have cited a lack of privacy and the cost of reconfiguring subs as obstacles to allowing female crewmembers to serve aboard the vessels.

But Mabus is one of several top Navy officials recently to call for an end to the policy. The Navy secretary’s comments yesterday amplify his previous endorsement of ending the ban.

“This is something the [chief of naval operations] and I have been working on since I came into office,” Mabus, who was confirmed as Navy secretary in May, said last week. “We are moving out aggressively on this.

“I believe women should have every opportunity to serve at sea, and that includes aboard submarines,” he told reporters following a tour of Northrop Grumman Corp.'s Newport News shipyard.

Navy Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations, acknowledged that special accommodations would be a factor in the decision, but one that’s not insurmountable.

“Having commanded a mixed-gender surface combatant, I am very comfortable addressing integrating women into the submarine force,” he said in a statement last month. “I am familiar with the issues as well as the value of diverse crews.”

Roughead said he has been personally engaged through the years in the Navy’s debate of the feasibility of assigning women to submarines.

“There are some particular issues with integrating women into the submarine force -- issues we must work through in order to achieve what is best for the Navy and our submarine force,” he said. “This has had and will continue to have my personal attention as we work toward increasing the diversity of our Navy afloat and ashore."

Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, addressed the issue with the Senate Armed Services Committee last month.

“I believe we should continue to broaden opportunities for women,” Mullen is quoted as saying in response to written questions posed by the Senate Armed Services Committee. “One policy I would like to see changed is the one barring their service aboard submarines.”

Mullen, a champion of diversifying the services, said this month that having a military that reflects the demographics of the United States is “a strategic imperative for the security of our country.”

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

Pentagon Identifies Army Casualty (OIF)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 2009 -- The following news release made available Wednesday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement identifying a casualty:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Maj. Tad T. Hervas, 48, of Coon Rapids, Minn., died Oct. 6 at Contingency Operating Base Basra, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 34th Infantry Regiment, Rosemont, Minn.

The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.

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

Pentagon Announces Replacement Units for Afghanistan Rotation

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 2009 -- The following news release made available Wednesday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement announcing replacement units scheduled to deploy for Afghanistan rotation:

The Department of Defense announced today major units scheduled to deploy as part of the next rotation operating in Afghanistan. This announcement involves a combat brigade and combat aviation brigade totaling approximately 6,100 service members. The scheduled rotation for these forces will begin in the spring and continue through the summer of 2010.

The spring rotation of approximately 2,800 soldiers of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, from Fort Campbell, Ky, continues the U.S. commitment to maintain the level of forces necessary to provide sufficient military capability for the NATO-International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to further improve security and stability operations.

The summer rotation of approximately 3,300 soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, from Fort Carson, Co, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, will continue the ongoing training and mentoring mission of Afghan National Security Forces in Afghanistan.

In consultation with Afghan officials and NATO, commanders continue to assess the situation to ensure sufficient force levels to best support the Government of Afghanistan, perform counter-terrorism operations, assist with reconstruction, and train and equip the Afghan National Security Forces.

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

Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group Enters 7th Fleet

PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 30, 2009) The amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) conducts a vertical replenishment with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J Kaiser (T-AO 187). Bonhomme Richard, the flagship for the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, is on a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sarah E. Bitter.)

Focus on Defense:

BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea, Oct. 7, 2009 -- USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), entered the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Operations Oct. 2 as part of its regularly scheduled deployment to promote peace, cooperation and stability in the region.

Led by Capt. Rodney Clark, the ARG consists of three ships -- amphibious assault ship Bonhomme Richard, amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47).

"We have a great Navy, Marine Corps team and offer a full range of operational capabilities. We look forward to operating in the 7th Fleet and playing a role in regional security and cooperation," said Clark. "We are also prepared to provide assistance in the region when called upon."

The ARG's 2,300 personnel make up the Navy component of a multicapable team that also includes 2,200 embarked Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), commanded by Col. Gregg Olson.

Capt. John Funk, Bonhomme Richard's commanding officer, is also looking forward to operating in the 7th Fleet region.

"We are looking forward to every opportunity to build friendships and enhance partnerships in the region and wherever we visit, to show our hosts the best ambassadors the United States has to offer – the sailors and Marines of Bonhomme Richard," said Funk.

In addition to its ships, the ARG consists of the command element, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; the "Wild Cards" of Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Detachment 3; Assault Craft Unit 1, Detachment B; Assault Craft Unit 5, Detachment F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Detachment B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.

The 7th Fleet operating area includes more than half of the world's population and more than 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian Oceans -- stretching from the International Date Line to the east coast of Africa, and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the Antarctic in the south.

The Bonhomme Richard ARG is transiting the 7th Fleet Area of Operations and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.

(Report from Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group Public Affairs.)

OEF Update, Oct. 7, 2009: Troops Kill, Detain Militants in Afghanistan

Dispatches from the Front:

KABUL, Afghanistan, Oct. 7, 2009 -- Afghan and International security forces killed and detained groups of suspected militants in four separate search operations conducted Oct. 6 and 7, in eastern and southern Afghanistan.

A joint security force killed and detained several suspected militants in Saydabad district, Wardak province today, after searching a compound known to be used by a Taliban group believed responsible for improvised explosive device attacks against Afghan civilians and regional infrastructure.

During the search the joint security force received hostile fire and returned fire, killing several enemy militants. The joint force also found a suicide vest and destroyed it in place.

On Oct. 6, a joint security force killed and detained suspected militants in Kabul province during an operation to disrupt a Taliban element responsible for improvised explosive device placement and attacks on joint forces in southeast Afghanistan. Acting on reports indicating the presence of a known Taliban commander, the joint force searched a location near Niknazar Kalay in Shinkay district.

During the search enemy militants armed with rifles attempted to move against the joint force. The joint force received hostile fire from enemy militants and responded with small arms fire killing them. A search of the suspected militants revealed multiple AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition, which were destroyed in place.

In another operation today a joint security force detained several suspected militants south of Marjeh in Helmand province. The joint force searched a compound known to be used by a Taliban commander and his element believed to be responsible for transporting weapons to other militant elements and for several small arms and suicide attacks against Afghan civilians and infrastructure in the region. The force uncovered 115 pounds of black tar heroin and destroyed all of it in place.

In a fourth operation a joint security force captured two wanted Taliban militants Oct. 6 in the Tere Zayi district of Khowst province where enemy fighters had created a safe-haven. The suspected Taliban militants were wanted for conducting illegal activities including coordinating attacks against joint security forces and for facilitating the distribution of weapons and narcotics.

During this operation the joint security force searched a number of compounds known to be used by militants and Taliban leaders who are believed to be responsible for roadside bomb attacks against Afghan National Security Forces in the area. Several suspected militants were detained for questioning.

A supply of AK-47 rifles, ammunition and magazines was found during the search and destroyed.

No Afghan civilians were harmed during these operations.

No ISAF service members were killed over the past 24 hours.

(Compiled from NATO International Security Assistance Force news releases.)

Wire: Senate Passes Pentagon Budget, War Funding

Off the Wire:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 2009 -- Newswire services this morning reported that the Senate on Tuesday passed a spending bill bringing the total U.S. tab for that war to about $300 billion.

The $626 billion measure, passed 93-7, also would ban outright any transfer of accused enemy combatants from the Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, detention facility into the United States. Current law permits transfer of detainees to face trial or go to prison.

The Associated Press said the bill combines $128 billion for overseas military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan with $498 billion for the rest of the Defense Department's budget. An analysis by congressional researchers puts the tally for Afghanistan at about $300 billion and for Iraq at more than $700 billion since Sept. 11, 2001 -- totaling more than $1 trillion.

The bill must now be reconciled with a measure that passed the House this summer and will then be presented to Obama for his signature.

The measure also contains $2.7 billion worth of pet projects sought by senators, commonly known as "earmarks," including funding for-profit companies to develop new technologies. The Senate by voice vote rejected a bid by McCain to require earmarked for-profit companies to be subject to competitive bidding, in keeping with reforms instituted by the House, AP noted.

The following senators voted against the bill:

Barrasso (R-WY)
Coburn (R-OK)
DeMint (R-SC)
Enzi (R-WY)
Feingold (D-WI)
Graham (R-SC)
McCain (R-AZ)

See the link below for details.

(Report from newswire sources.)

Source: Senate passes Pentagon budget, war funding

Strykers Bronzed to a Desert Tan

Jagadish Hajam, an auto body repairman and painter from Nepal, applies a coat of Tan 686A, a paint meant for desert camouflage, on the wheels of a Stryker armored combat vehicle inside a booth at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 3. It's the first vehicle to adopt the new desert tan color in Southwest Asia, in preparation for a planned phase out of the Stryker's current deep green color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

Dar Barker, a General Dynamics Land Systems retrofit chief from Puyallup, Wa., directs an armored combat vehicle outside the Stryker battle damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 5. The Stryker infantry carrier vehicle had been restored after deterioration during enemy engagement in Iraq. It's the first vehicle to adopt a new desert tan color in Southwest Asia, in preparation for a planned phase out of the Stryker's current deep green color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

Jagadish Hajam, an auto body repairman and painter from Nepal, applies a coat of Tan 686A, a paint meant for desert camouflage, along the wheel well of a Stryker armored combat vehicle inside a booth at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 3. It's the first vehicle to adopt the new desert tan color in Southwest Asia, in preparation for a planned phase out of the Stryker's current deep green color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

Jagadish Hajam, an auto body repairman and painter from Nepal, applies a coat of Tan 686A, a paint meant for desert camouflage, underneath a Stryker armored combat vehicle inside a booth at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 3. It's the first vehicle to adopt the new desert tan color in Southwest Asia, in preparation for a planned phase out of the Stryker's current deep green color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Peter Butts, 1st Battalion, 401st Army Field Support Brigade commander, stands outside the Stryker battle damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 5. A Stryker infantry carrier vehicle had been restored after deterioration during enemy engagement in Iraq. It's the first vehicle to adopt a new desert tan color in Southwest Asia, in preparation for a planned phase out of the Stryker's current deep green color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

Jagadish Hajam, an auto body repairman and painter from Nepal, applies a coat of Tan 686A, a paint meant for desert camouflage, on the wheels of a Stryker armored combat vehicle inside a booth at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 3. It's the first vehicle to adopt the new desert tan color in Southwest Asia, in preparation for a planned phase out of the Stryker's current deep green color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Peter Butts, 1st Battalion, 401st Army Field Support Brigade commander, listens to Rick Hunt, General Dynamics Land Systems site manager, explain new retrofit requirements at a Stryker battle damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 5. A planned transition to a desert tan color represents the latest survivability improvement since Stryker vehicles moved into Afghanistan this summer. GDLS welders and mechanics have been installing mine protection kits, tire fire suppression kits, cameras, engine enhancements and software upgrades. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Peter Butts, 1st Battalion, 401st Army Field Support Brigade commander, glances over new retrofit requirements at a Stryker battle damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 5. Rick Hunt, General Dynamics Land Systems site manager, explains the changes, which include a transition to a desert tan color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

A Stryker armored combat vehicle rolls out of the Stryker battle damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 5. The Stryker infantry carrier vehicle had been restored after deterioration during enemy engagement in Iraq. It's the first vehicle to adopt a new desert tan color in Southwest Asia, in preparation for a planned phase out of the Stryker's current deep green color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

A Stryker armored combat vehicle circles around the Stryker battle damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 5. The Stryker infantry carrier vehicle had been restored after deterioration during enemy engagement in Iraq. It's the first vehicle to adopt a new desert tan color in Southwest Asia, in preparation for a planned phase out of the Stryker's current deep green color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

A Stryker armored combat vehicle sits inside a Stryker battle damage repair facility staging area at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 5. The Stryker infantry carrier vehicle had been restored after deterioration during enemy engagement in Iraq. It's the first vehicle to adopt a new desert tan color in Southwest Asia, in preparation for a planned phase out of the Stryker's current deep green color. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Peter Butts, 1st Battalion, 401st Army Field Support Brigade commander, listens to Rick Hunt, General Dynamics Land Systems site manager, explain new retrofit requirements at a Stryker battle damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 5. A planned transition to a desert tan color represents the latest survivability improvements since Stryker vehicles moved into Afghanistan this summer. GDLS welders and mechanics have been installing mine protection kits, tire fire suppression kits, cameras, engine enhancements and software upgrades. (Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

Dispatches from the Front:

CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar, Oct. 7, 2009 -- Stryker armored combat vehicles will soon receive a cosmetic makeover for better concealment in Iraq and Afghanistan. The current deep green color will be phased out in favor of desert tan. The first to adopt the change was revealed inside the Stryker battle damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 5, an infantry carrier vehicle that had been restored after deterioration during enemy engagement in Iraq.

"Safeguarding soldiers is the primary purpose for this color change," said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Peter Butts, 1st Battalion, 401st Army Field Support Brigade commander. "Strykers will blend into surroundings better. They're less likely to stand out like silhouettes." Produced by General Dynamics Land Systems, the eight-wheeled armored combat vehicles have been painted a foliage green color since their combat debut in 2003, supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"Talks about changing the color have been ongoing since 2004," said Butts. "Painting this first Stryker helped us understand the necessary man hours, material needs and unit coordination to finally make it happen – it's our proof of principle." Every Stryker vehicle sent to the Qatar repair site will depart desert tan, once administrative requirements are complete.

Tan 686A is a paint meant for desert camouflage. It's the same solid color covering most military equipment throughout Southwest Asia, where encountering dust storms and sand dunes are far more common than thick jungles and rolling prairies. To lighten the current tint while in sandy terrain, Central Command war fighters have relied on dust collected in the abrasive texture of the vehicle's hull and slat armor.

The planned transition to desert tan represents the latest survivability retrofit since Stryker vehicles moved into Afghanistan this summer. Since then, GDLS welders and mechanics have installed mine protection kits, tire fire suppression kits, cameras, engine enhancements and software upgrades.

Stryker combat vehicles provide CENTCOM military operations with the following ten configurations: infantry carrier vehicle; command vehicle; fire support vehicle; engineer support vehicle; reconnaissance vehicle; medical evacuation vehicle; anti-tank guided missile vehicle; mortar carrier; nuclear, biological and chemical reconnaissance vehicle; and mobile gun system. Additional variants and improvement options are constantly explored by GDLS and U.S. government officials.

"This first tan vehicle is for soldiers in Afghanistan," said Rick Hunt, GDLS site manager at the battle damage repair facility in Qatar. "Soon, everything we receive from Iraq and Afghanistan for retrofit and repairs will leave here tan."

(Report by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office.)

More Military Imagery on THE TENSION

Pentagon: Strykers to Deploy to India for Exercise

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 6, 2009 -- The Army plans to deploy 17 of its Stryker combat vehicles this month to India for the first exercise of its kind in the country.

This is also the largest deployment of the Strykers outside of those sent to Iraq and Afghanistan, Army officials said.

“It’s one of the most important training exercises that we’ve done with the Indian military to date,” Army Lt. Gen. Benjamin R. Mixon said today at a news conference here. Mixon commands all Army forces in the U.S. Pacific Command area.

About 200 troops from the 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, based out of Hawaii, will train alongside the Indian army in combat maneuvers using the Strykers, Mixon said. An Indian army unit of about the same size will join the Stryker crews in Babina, about 275 miles southeast of New Delhi, for the two-week exercise starting Oct. 12. The two armies will share tactics for using the Strykers in combat, as well as its integrated computer network system, Mixon said.

The exercise will end with a live-fire demonstration of the Stryker.

“We’re very excited about it,” the general said. “We think it’s going to be a good experience for our soldiers, as well as a very important part of our relationship with India.”

This exercise, more than two years in the planning, comes as the Defense Department continues to reach out to India to increase its military collaboration. Pacific Command’s top officer, Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating, last month traveled to India and said officials there have committed to increasing their military relationship with the United States. Mixon said this exercise will help to build on that relationship and open doors for expanding such training there.

“We view it as a broad effort in our engagement strategy with the Indians that we want to continue to expand. It provides a … method to get at more engagements,” he said.

Mixon said the Indian army is anxious to train with the Strykers. Most military exercises in the country, he explained, have been limited to scenario-driven, commander-level exercises in which few troops are involved. Some of them included unit or troop exchanges between militaries. When U.S. forces join with other militaries in the region, the scenario typically includes both tactical and humanitarian training. This exercise is unique in that it strictly focuses on combat training and does not include a humanitarian piece.

“It’s the full gamut,” Mixon said. “It’s on the high end of fighting.”

The two armies also will share training on how to fight improvised explosive devices. More than half of the U.S. soldiers involved are fresh from a deployment in Iraq, where they dealt regularly with the homemade bomb attacks.

The unit is part of the 25th Infantry Division’s 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, and is slated to return to Iraq within months after this training mission.

In the Pacific region, the U.S. Army also trains with the militaries from Thailand, Indonesia and Japan. The region’s largest combined exercise, called Cobra Gold, includes militaries from Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan and observers from 20 other countries. The next exercise in that series is slated for February.

“We’ve got a very active engagement strategy with all of the militaries throughout the Pacific region,” Mixon said. “It’s a very important part of what we do.”

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

Wire: US Military Deaths in Afghanistan Region at 791

Off the Wire:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 6, 2009 -- Newswire services this evening reported that as of Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2009, at least 791 members of the U.S. military had died in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Uzbekistan as a result of the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, according to the Defense Department. The Pentagon last updated its figures Tuesday at 10 a.m. EDT.

Of those, the Pentagon said 611 were killed by hostile action.

The Associated Press reported that outside the Afghan region, the Defense Department said 72 more members of the U.S. military died in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Of those, three were the result of hostile action. The military lists these other locations as Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Cuba; Djibouti; Eritrea; Ethiopia; Jordan; Kenya; Kyrgyzstan; Philippines; Seychelles; Sudan; Tajikistan; Turkey; and Yemen.

There were also four CIA officer deaths and one military civilian death, AP said.

(Report from newswire sources.)

OIF Summary, Oct. 6, 2009: Forces Arrest Terrorist Leader, Other Suspects in Iraq

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 6, 2009 -- Iraqi forces, with U.S. advisors, arrested a terrorist leader and other suspected terrorists in operations in Iraq today and yesterday, military officials reported.

Iraqi forces, with U.S. advisors, arrested Badr Sarhan Shihan, the region’s Islamic State of Iraq leader, yesterday near Tuz Khurmatu, south of Kirkuk.

Shihan is a warranted criminal and active recruiter for the Islamic State of Iraq terrorist organization, which is closely tied to al-Qaida in Iraq. Iraqi forces questioned and arrested an additional suspect during the operation who was determined to be an accomplice to criminal activity near Kirkuk.

In a separate operation yesterday, the force arrested four suspects near Tarmiyah, northwest of Baghdad. The security team searched several buildings and apprehended a key member of a Ramadi vehicle-bomb network. The suspect also is believed to be responsible for transporting several tons of explosive material to Baghdad for use in bomb attacks against Iraqi security forces and civilians in the area.

During the same operation, three additional suspects were questioned and identified as associates of vehicle- bomb networks in northern and central Iraq. Iraqi security forces also discovered material used for explosive devices.

The forces arrested all four suspects without incident and cleared the area of explosive material, officials said.

Elsewhere, Iraqi police arrested six suspects in western Iraq today during two operations targeting al-Qaida in Iraq members and conspirators.

Iraqi forces, with U.S. advisors, searched several buildings for a warranted al-Qaida in Iraq member who supports and facilitates terrorist operations near Kirkuk. The security team encountered three suspects who, after questioning, were identified as associates of the warranted al-Qaida in Iraq member. Iraqi authorities on scene arrested the three suspects.

In a separate operation near Qara Tapa, northeast of Baghdad, Iraqi police, with U.S. advisors, searched for an al-Qaida in Iraq member who operates throughout Diyala province and is known to provide weapons training for al-Qaida in Iraq members.

During the security operation, the Iraqi police apprehended three suspects, who were arrested based on evidence found at the scene linking the three to criminal activity, officials said.

(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq news releases.)

Milestone: USS McInerney Sets Sail for Final Deployment

MAYPORT, Fla. (Oct. 5, 2008) The guided-missile frigate USS McInerney (FFG 8) approaches the pier during a return to homeport at Naval Station Mayport after a six-month deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Leah Stiles.)

Focus on Defense:

MAYPORT, Fla., Oct. 6, 2009 -- Family, friends and military gathered aboard Naval Station Mayport Oct. 5 to bid safe farewell to USS McInerney (FFG 8) as they set sail for their final deployment.

The McInerney will be the first gas turbine propelled ship to complete 30 years of service during their six-month deployment. All other ships of this kind have decommissioned prior to accomplishing this significant milestone.

According to McInerney's Command Master Chief, CMDCM (SW/AW/SCW) John T. Lawry this milestone pleases more than just the ship's current crew and the Navy.

"The pride I feel to have served on a warship with the history that McInerney possesses is indescribable. This ship was commissioned before anyone currently serving on her was in the Navy, and before many of her sailors were even born. This accomplishment is a great testament to all who have sailed on her that this ship has performed at high levels for this long," said Lawry.

People not serving aboard McInerney felt that same pride about the ship's many years of success.

"I have watched this ship pull in and out of this harbor for years," said Neptune Beach local, "Buzz" Wilks. "I never get tired of watching ships leave full of sailors, full of our country's angels setting out to serve, but nothing makes me happier than seeing them return home, and this one is going to come back having served this great country for 30 years. Now that's really something."

Lawry said the ship and its crew have many accomplishments, but he does have one that stands out.

"The accomplishments of any warship, let alone one with 30 years of service are so numerous and lengthy that I would do injustice trying to name them all. The accomplishment that stands out most to me during my tour would be the first capture of a SPSS (Drug Sub) by the crew while on deployment in 2008. Our combined efforts resulted in legislation being created to help stem the flow of illegal drugs into the United States and its allies," said Lawry.

The SPSS or self-propelled semi-submersible vessel Lawry referred to was carrying an estimated $107 million worth of cocaine that never hit the streets of the United States. Lawry said it is always great to take part in something so significant but the goal of every deployment is always bigger, it's always about safety.

"If you asked me what the goal of the deployment is I would answer that it is to bring back everyone we left with to their families and loved ones. Everything else that we accomplish as a team just makes my job that much more satisfying – but our primary goal whether it's for deployment, or just for a day, is to bring everyone home safely in the same condition or better than when we left."

Lawry's pride goes beyond the accomplishments of the ship and of its future milestone; his pride is in the crew.

"It is hard to describe my feelings for this crew and the growth they have shown as a whole during my tour aboard. We have been faced with so many challenges in such a short time it's seriously mind boggling. Watching these young men work together and put aside differences to accomplish something that was a huge undertaking is especially gratifying. I am proud to serve as the command master chief of such a hard working and professional group of individuals all who strive to improve and grow on a daily basis."

As McInerney sets out to unknown obstacles and achievements, people walk away already awaiting their return.

(Report by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sunday E. Williams, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East Detachment Southeast.)

Wire: Afghan, US Troops Kill 40 Militants in East

Off the Wire:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 6, 2009 -- Newswire services this morning reported that Afghan and American forces killed 40 militants in 24 hours as they hunted in mountainous eastern Afghanistan for insurgents, the defense ministry said Tuesday.

The Associated Press said ministry spokesman Gen. Mohammad Zahir Azimi said 10 Afghan army troops were also killed in the same period around the country, most of them in Nuristan province's Kamdesh district, where eight Americans and two Afghan security troopers died Saturday after hundreds of Taliban militants overwhelmed their remote and thinly manned outposts.

Azimi said joint operations were ongoing Tuesday in Kamdesh, and seven insurgents had been arrested there, AP noted.

Capt. Elizabeth Mathias, an American media officer for NATO forces, however, said there had "not been any significant engagement" in Kamdesh since Saturday. She said U.S. and Afghan forces were still in the remote area and had not pulled out.

NATO said in a statement that 100 attackers were killed in Saturday's fighting. The alliance had previously only said that coalition forces inflicted "heavy casualties."

The fierce gunbattle was the heaviest U.S. loss of life in a single battle since July 2008, when nine American soldiers were killed in a raid on an outpost in the same province.

Kamdesh, located about 20 miles (30 kilometers) from the Pakistani border and about 150 miles (230 kilometers) from Kabul, has no regular cell phone or landline contact and few roads.

Al-Qaida fighters are active in the region, as are those of wanted militant leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, whose military chief Kashmir Khan has been unsuccessfully targeted by U.S. missiles over the past eight years.

NATO said the attack was carried out "by local anti-Afghan forces, while local Taliban" and militants loyal to Hekmatyar "may have helped facilitate" it. The Taliban have claimed responsibility.

See link below for additional details.

(Report from newswire sources.)

Source: Afghan, US troops kill 40 militants in east

Combat Camera Video: An EOD Tech's Job is Never Done (OEF)

NOTE: News readers click here to watch the video.

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2009 -- Embedded above is a b-roll video of of explosive ordnance technicians on the job in Afghanistan. Scenes include patrolling areas, seeing an armored vehicle that was hit with an explosive, evacuating the members of that team, and exploding a found explosive. (Courtesy Video, American Forces Network Afghanistan. Length: 05:05.)

More Combat Camera Imagery on THE TENSION

Pentagon Identifies Army Casualties (OEF)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2009 -- The following news release made available Monday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement identifying casualties:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Oct. 2 in Murcheh, Afghanistan, from wounds suffered when they were attacked by a suicide bomber. They were assigned to the 422nd Civil Affairs Battalion, Greensboro, N.C.

Killed were:

• Capt. Benjamin A. Sklaver, 32, of Medford, Mass.

• Pfc. Alan H. Newton Jr., 26, of Asheboro, N.C.

The incident is under investigation.

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

Pentagon Identifies Army Casualty (OIF)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2009 -- The following news release made available Monday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement identifying a casualty:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Paul E. Andersen, 49, of Dowagiac, Mich., died Oct. 1 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his camp using indirect fire. He was assigned to the 855th Quartermaster Company, South Bend, Ind.

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

OIF Summary, Oct. 5, 2009: Forces Arrest Suspected Terrorist Leaders in Iraq

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2009 -- Iraqi forces arrested several suspected terrorist leaders in Iraq in recent days, military officials reported.

Iraqi constables with the 5th Emergency Response Battalion arrested a suspected leader of an al-Qaida terrorist cell in Ninevah province Oct. 3.

The constables arrested Hajji Ali al-Tikriti for allegedly coordinating multiple attacks against Iraqi security forces and civilians, smuggling weapons throughout northern Iraq and for extorting civilians in the province. He also is suspected of being a key influencer and contributor in numerous vehicle and roadside bomb attacks throughout Mosul, and is believed to be the military mind behind a terrorist cell in Mosul.

The constables conducted the arrest under the authority of a warrant issued by the Superior Judiciary Council of the Riyad Central Investigative Court.

Meanwhile, Iraqi constables with the 6th Emergency Response Battalion arrested Ghassan Adnan Hamza, a suspected terrorist cell leader associated with Jaysh al-Mahdi, an Iraqi paramilitary force, during an operation in Diyala province Sept. 27.

The man was arrested with a warrant issued by the High Judicial Council Appellate Court of Diyala for suspicion of murdering several civilians throughout northern Iraq, attacks against Iraqi security forces, laundering money and for setting up multiple terrorist cells aimed at destabilizing Iraq.

Elsewhere, Iraqi security forces captured six suspects involved in terrorist acts conducted in and around Kirkuk, Mosul and Baghdad in separate security operations Oct. 3.

Near Tuz Khurmatu, southwest of Kirkuk, the 3rd Emergency Services Unit, with U.S. forces advisors, arrested a suspect believed to be involved in an assassination and kidnapping ring that operates in and around Kirkuk. The man also is suspected of helping to build the vehicle-borne bomb that destroyed a mosque and killed several Iraqi civilians in Taza on June 20. The force arrested an additional suspect during the search after police determined that he may pose a threat to the local community.

In a separate operation, the 3rd General Directorate Salahuddin Police Unit, with U.S. forces advisors, arrested two suspects during a search in Qara Tapa for an al-Qaida in Iraq mortar cell leader who operates throughout Diyala province. The suspects were questioned and determined to have connections to al-Qaida operations in Qara Tapa, southeast of Kirkuk.

In northern Mosul, Iraqi soldiers, with U.S. forces advisors, arrested a suspect during a search of two buildings for an al-Qaida in Iraq member believed to be responsible for multiple vehicle-borne bomb attacks throughout the northern Iraq city.

In northern Baghdad, Iraqi soldiers and U.S. advisors searched a building known to be used by the terrorist group Khataib Hizballah. During this operation, the security team encountered a suspicious person, who was arrested without incident.

Elsewhere, Iraqi police and U.S. and Iraqi soldiers arrested eight people Sept. 30 wanted on warrants for homemade bomb attacks against security forces in Kirkuk. One of the detainees is suspected of involvement with a bomb attack Sept. 8 that killed four and wounded two Iraqi police officers outside Kirkuk city.

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

Pentagon Identifies Army Casualty (OEF)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2009 -- The following news release made available Monday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement identifying a casualty:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Sgt. Thomas D. Rabjohn, 39, of Litchfield Park, Ariz., died Oct. 3 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated during an attempt to disarm it. He was assigned to the 363rd Explosive Ordnance Detachment, Coolidge, Ariz.

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

OEF Summary, Oct. 5, 2009: Troops Disrupt, Detain Insurgents in Afghanistan

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2009 -- Afghan and NATO troops have killed or detained numerous militant fighters throughout eastern and southern Afghanistan in recent days, military officials reported.

Forces detained a group of suspected militants today after searching compounds northeast of Khowst City known to be used by a Haqqani terrorist network leader and his unit. The search was conducted without incident.

In the Saydabad district of Wardak province, forces detained several suspects today after searching a series of buildings known to be used by a Taliban leader and his unit. The group is suspected of providing financial support, weapons and bombs to other militants.

In a third operation today, forces detained several suspects after searching buildings west of Kandahar City. The buildings are known to be used by a Taliban element responsible for the supply of weapons, explosives, fighters and money to other militant elements in the region.

Forces yesterday conducted two searches in an effort to disrupt a Taliban element working in the southeast. In Ghazni province, they detained suspected militants during a search in the Gelan district. A suspected insurgent also was detained in the Saydabad district of Wardak province. No one was injured or killed during the operations.

In operations Oct. 3:

• Forces detained multiple suspects in Zabul, Wardak and Paktia provinces after searching areas known for terrorist activity. No one was injured in the operations.

• In Paktika province, forces killed suspected insurgents attempting to use makeshift bombs against them, as well as a suspect who posed an imminent threat in another building.

• In Kandahar province, forces found more than 1,600 pounds of ammonium nitrate, a chemical compound commonly used in making explosives. The force destroyed the chemical on site, and one insurgent was detained.

No Afghan civilians were harmed in the operations.

(Compiled from NATO International Security Assistance Force news releases.)

Combat Camera: 1/5 Marines at Patrol Base Fielder, Afghanistan

Marines walk through an open field during a patrol Sept. 12. Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment are conducting security patrols to ensure security for local Afghans in the area. (Photo by Lance Cpl. John McCall, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

Gunnery Sgt. Shawn Hughes talks with a man about problems in the local village during a patrol Sept. 13. Hughes, 31, is the scout sniper platoon sergeant from Roseburg, Ore., deployed with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. Marines with 1/5 are conducting security patrols to ensure security for local Afghans in the area. (Photo by Lance Cpl. John McCall, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

Lance Cpl. Tyler Ware walks past dried poppy plants during a patrol Sept. 12. Ware is a 20-year-old amphibious assault vehicle operator from Riverton, Wyo., deployed with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. Marines with 1/5 are conducting security patrols to ensure security for local Afghans in the area. (Photo by Lance Cpl. John McCall, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

Gunnery Sgt. Shawn Hughes talks with two local Afghan men at Patrol Base Fielder Sept. 14. Hughes, 31, is the scout sniper platoon sergeant from Roseburg, Ore., deployed with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. Marines are using the property as a base for conducting security patrols in the area. (Photo by Lance Cpl. John McCall, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

Lance Cpl. Paulo Moreira provides security during a patrol Sept. 12. Moreira is a 22-year-old mortarman from Medford, Mass., deployed with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. Marines with 1/5 are conducting security patrols to ensure security for local Afghans in the area. (Photo by Lance Cpl. John McCall, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

Marines walk through an open field during a patrol near Sept. 12. Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment are conducting security patrols to ensure security for local Afghans in the area. (Photo by Lance Cpl. John McCall, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

Gunnery Sgt. Shawn Hughes talks with two local Afghan men at Patrol Base Fielder Sept. 14. Hughes, 31, is the scout sniper platoon sergeant from Roseburg, Ore., deployed with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. Marines are using the property as a base for conducting security patrols in the area. (Photo by Lance Cpl. John McCall, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

Dispatches from the Front:

PATROL BASE FIELDER, Afghanistan, Oct. 5, 2009 -- All servicemembers are trained to do a specific job -- their military occupational specialty. However, sometimes they are also asked to maintain their proficiency in another one, like the mortarmen and amphibious assault vehicle operators with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment here.

"You have to know how to do another person's job. If you lose one of your Marines, someone has to fill in for him," said Sgt. Andres Gonzalez, 26, a mortarman from Chicago. We still do our job if they need us to. Right now there is not a real need for mortars or AAV operators, so we just do the job of a rifleman, he said.

The Marines who live at PB Fielder consist of mortarmen, AAV operators and scout snipers. They have all been operating as basic rifleman along with their original skill set.

Patrol Base Fielder is a newly occupied position. It was opened to make communicating with the local populace easier.

"With this new patrol base, we can easily interact with people, and they can come to us if they have any problems," Gunnery Sgt. Shawn Hughes, scout sniper platoon sergeant. "It is closer for people to come talk to us."

Before, the Marines now living here were occupying another post known by Marines as White Hill. White Hill provided a constant watch position on a road called Route 605 that vehicle convoys regularly use to re-supply various positions. Improvised explosive devices are a common occurrence on the 605. Now, White Hill is used only as an observation post whereas this new location is now a platoon-sized base of operations.

"It has been hard trying to have an effect on such a large area," Gonzalez said about having to cover the ground prior to moving here." I think we can help, but it is going to take time."

To help address the IED issue, scout snipers have joined the Marines at Fielder to help. They set up observation posts at night to catch enemy insurgents doing their dirty work.

"It's a game of cat and mouse out here," Hughes explained. "When we do patrols, it doesn't always work. We try to figure out their (the enemy) patterns so we can catch them in the act."

To combat IEDs Marines have been using foot patrols as a way to meet with the locals and establish good relationships.

"We are trying to make our presence here very friendly. We invite people to come and talk to us if they have any problems," Hughes said. "Everyone knows me by 'Gunny.' People I have never met before seem to know my name. It's really the Marines though. They're getting out there doing patrols, meeting people and really staying focused," explained the Roseburg, Ore., native.

Hughes intends to eventually use the patrol base to hold shuras for local Afghans to attend -- giving them the opportunity to voice their opinions and resolve any issues.

"I am here to listen and then pass it on up to the command where people can make things happen," Hughes explained.

The Afghan national army has been a big help in getting through to the locals. Marines work together with the ANA. They show them how to keep the area safe and work with the populace.

"Having the ANA here really helped improve the disposition with the locals," Hughes explained. "It helps build our rapport partnering with them. They like seeing us working together with the ANA."

One of the goals tied into building friendly relationships with the people is for them to feel comfortable enough to work with Marines and Afghan soldiers by giving them information that will lead to better overall security in the area.

"I think information will start coming in after the people see that we can help them," Gonzalez said.

(Report by Lance Cpl. John McCall, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

More Combat Camera Imagery on THE TENSION

Pentagon Identifies Army Casualties (OEF)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 4, 2009 -- The following news release made available Sunday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement identifying casualties:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Oct. 2 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when enemy forces attacked their unit using small arms fire.

Killed were:

• Sgt. Aaron M. Smith, 25, of Manhattan, Kan. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y.

• Pfc. Brandon A. Owens, 21, of Memphis, Tenn. He was assigned to the 118th Military Police Company, 503rd Military Police Battalion, 16th Military Police Brigade, XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, N.C.

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

Combat Camera Video: Tangi Valley, Part 5 - The Task Ahead

NOTE: News readers click here to watch the video.

Dispatches from the Front:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 4, 2009 -- Embedded above is part five of a series. American soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division have a tough task ahead in dealing with the daily threat of IEDs and winning over the local population. (NATO TV video. Length: 3:21.)

More Combat Camera Imagery on THE TENSION

Pentagon Identifies Army Casualty (OEF)

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Oct. 4, 2009 -- The following news release made available Saturday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement identifying a casualty:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Sgt. Roberto D. Sanchez, 24 of Satellite Beach, Fla., died Oct. 1 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield Ga.

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

Combat Camera: US Marines Investigate Insurgents' Underground Highway, Nimruz Province, Afghanistan

The 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment's Cpl. Tavares Taylor lowers a reconnaissance robot into an 80-foot karez Sept. 23, 2009. The Marines were investigating tunnels in the district's karez system - a network of wells and tunnels hundreds of years old - that are suspected to have been used by insurgents as caches for IED making materials. (Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Chris W. Cox, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

The 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment's Cpl. Jason L. Paul radios his patrol's security element as battalion commander Lt. Col. Patrick Cashman observes a reconnaissance robot's camera feed on Markbot operator Cpl. Garrett Andrews' laptop Sept. 23, 2009. The Marines based at Forward Operating Delaram near here were investigating tunnels in the district's karez system - a series of wells hundreds of years old - that are suspected to have been used by insurgents as caches for IED making materials. (Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Chris W. Cox, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

The 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment commanding officer Lt. Col. Patrick Cashman and radio operator Cpl. Tavares Taylor approach an 80-foot karez to investigate it as a possible insurgent cache Sept. 23, 2009. The Marines were investigating tunnels in the district's karez system - a network of wells and tunnels hundreds of years old - that are suspected to be used by insurgents to store IED making materials. (Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Chris W. Cox, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

The 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment's Cpl. Tavares Taylor lowers a reconnaissance robot into an 80-foot karez as Markbot operator Cpl. Garrett Andrews guides it with the remote controller Sept. 23, 2009. The Marines were investigating tunnels in the district's karez system - a network of wells and tunnels hundreds of years old - that are suspected to have been used by insurgents as caches for IED making materials. (Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Chris W. Cox, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

Dispatches from the Front:

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELARAM, Nimruz province, Afghanistan, Oct. 4, 2009 --Some people go cave exploring for fun, but when there is a possibility of stumbling on explosive materials, an armed enemy or a nasty surprise they've left to be triggered in the dark, it's about as far from fun as you can get.

Marines from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment are searching wet, pitch-dark tunnels ranging from 40 to 100 feet underground that connect the karez system – a network of wells and tunnels between the snow-capped peaks of the Buji Bhast mountains and the arid desert plain here. The karez system was originally constructed hundreds, maybe thousands, of years ago. These days, insurgents are using these tunnels as a form of covert transportation and storage for IED-making materials. The Marines are putting a stop to that.

"We've found evidence of weapons, dwelling, trash. We know they're down there," said Company E executive officer, 1st Lt. Husein Yaghnam.

"We can't collapse them because that will affect the farmers' irrigation system, but we can deter the enemy from using them," said the Toledo, Ohio, Marine. "It might open up opportunities just by deterring the enemy from using them."

What's it like descending along the sheer walls of these holes that travel all the way down to the limestone bedrock?

"It's kind of scary, because you don't know what's in the wells," said Personal Security Detachment platoon sergeant Cpl. Jason L. Paul from Shiprock, N.M. The PSD Marines provide security for the battalion commanding officer, Lt. Col. Patrick Cashman, who sometimes personally investigates the wells for his own situational awareness.

"They're usually 40 to 60 feet down – straight down – and it's really dark down there," he described. "Every time we head down, I always tell my guys to be careful."

Fortunately for these young men weighed down with gear, drinking water, weapons, ammunition and a flashlight, going down on foot isn't always the first option they try. Sometimes they send down a robot – with varying degrees of success.

"Yesterday we sent the bot into three holes. In the first one it could only go in about eight feet, so we had to go in, retrieve it and investigate on foot," said Markbot operator Cpl. Garrett Andrews the day after a series of tunnel hunts. "Later we sent the bot down but didn't see any man-made passages."

In addition to deterring the enemy from using the karez, the Marines are also trying to determine which wells will be irrigating which fields before planting season arrives in a few months.

"We're also looking at the locals growing poppy," said Paul. "Yesterday, we found one that is actually being used to water their fields."

By identifying which wells are directly connected to potential poppy farmers, the Afghan government may be able to convince them beforehand to grow a different crop as they are doing in neighboring Helmand province. Two different areas there – Garmsir and Nawa Districts – have seen a measurably decrease in poppy growth since government workers began distributing bags of wheat seeds around last year's planting season. This year's program is already in full swing.

Before that can begin here though the Marines still have a lot of work to do, and their recent activity around the ancient well system has drawn notice.

"Yesterday, the locals were driving by really close taking peaks here and there," said Paul. "The local insurgents see that too. They're looking at that to see if that's another way to get us. We're planning for that."

(Report by Gunnery Sgt. Chris W. Cox, Regimental Combat Team 3.)

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