Terrified by Santa 2009

Here's a seasonal reprise of a wildly popular article:

WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2009 -- Nothing says Merry Christmas quite like a photo of sweet little toddlers screaming at Santa.

A few years ago the Chicago Tribune asked readers to send in their "Scared of Santa" photos. Those photos are included at the Web site linked below, including additional photos sent in by SouthFlorida.com, Sun-Sentinel.com and Chicago Tribune readers in subsequent years.

Enjoy!

Link: Click here to see the Scared of Santa gallery.

Rear Adm. Michelle Howard Assumes Command of Counter-Piracy Task Force CTF 151, ESG 2

GULF OF ADEN (April 5, 2009) Rear Adm. Terence McKnight shakes hands with Rear Adm. Michelle Howard after she assumed command of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2 and Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, aboard amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). McKnight served as Commander, ESG 2 since November, 2007 and Commander, CTF 151 since January, 2009. Boxer is the flagship for CTF 151. CTF 151 is a multinational task force established to conduct counter-piracy operations under a mission-based mandate throughout the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) area of responsibility to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy in order to protect global maritime security and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John J. Siller.)

GULF OF ADEN (Apr. 5, 2009) - Rear Adm. Michelle Howard relieves Rear Adm. Terence McKnight as commander of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2 and Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4), April 5. Boxer is the flagship for CTF 151. CTF 151 is a multinational task force established to conduct counter-piracy operations under a mission-based mandate throughout the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) area of responsibility to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy in order to protect global maritime security and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Laura A. Moore.)

Dispatches from the Front:

NOTE: Here is a related news item of interest:

The U.S. Navy will christen its newest Arleigh Burke class destroyer USS Gravely on May 16, 2009.

Vice Adm. Gravely was the first African-American to be selected to the rank of Admiral and the first to command a Navy warship. He died in 2004.

Link: http://tinyurl.com/od82bm

USS BOXER, At Sea, April 5, 2009 -- Rear Adm. Michelle Howard assumed command of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2 during a ceremony held on board USS Boxer (LHD 4) today and relieved Rear Adm. Terence McKnight, ESG 2’s commander since November 2007.

In addition to relieving McKnight as the ESG 2 commander, Howard assumes command of several U.S. 5th Fleet task forces, including Combined Task Force (CTF) 51 and 59, as well as CTF 151, an international maritime coalition created to disrupt, deter and thwart piracy.

“I’m very fortunate to follow behind Admiral McKnight,” said Howard. “He and the staff have done a terrific job in standing up CTF 151. His leadership will be missed on the waterfront.”

As commander of ESG 2, McKnight was responsible for all of the amphibious assets based on the U.S. East Coast and upon deploying to the U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of operations in January 2009, he assumed command of CTF 151.

McKnight said commanding ESG 2 has been an incredible experience and one he will never forget.

“This has definitely been one of the more exciting assignments of my career,” he said. “Not only did I never think I’d be sailing the ocean chasing pirates, I certainly never thought I’d be doing it alongside the navies of so many different countries, especially Russia and China.”

“My time at ESG 2 has been amazing,” McKnight continued. “In addition to all the exercises and contingencies we were involved with before we deployed, I was privileged enough to have hosted a Great White Fleet event in New York City along with my staff and we also played a big part in the grand re-opening of the Intrepid museum during Veterans Day Weekend 2008. Those two events will certainly remain cherished memories when I look back at my career.”

As the first African-American woman to command a U.S. Navy ship, Howard said she understands the magnitude of bridging cultural and international gaps.

“ESG 2 has executed the three missions they’re responsible for without missing a beat,” she said. “My top priority right now is to deter piracy here in the Gulf of Aden. I want to continue the extensive international coordination Admiral McKnight started. That’s the true key to defeating piracy. Piracy is a problem that affects all maritime nations and requires an international solution. I’m looking forward to working with naval professionals from around the world on this vital mission.”

CTF 151 is a multinational task force established to conduct counter-piracy operations under a mission-based mandate throughout the CMF area of responsibility to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy in order to protect global maritime security and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations.

Howard previously served as Senior Military Assistant to the Secretary of the Navy.

(Report by Lt. John Fage, Expeditionary Strike Group 2 Public Affairs.)

NOTE: Updated April 24, with two images.

U.S. Navy Bio: Rear Admiral Michelle Howard

NOTE: Story Update, May 3, 2009: Turkish Navy Assumes Command of Counterpiracy Task Force CTF 151
During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Caner Bener relieved Rear Adm. Michelle Howard as commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 151. Howard was unable to attend the ceremony as she was conducting operations at sea.

Tags: DOD, Military, War, United States, U.S., NAVCENT, Maritime Security Operation, Fifth Fleet, Navy, Dispatches from the Front
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Terrified by Santa 2008

Here's a seasonal reprise of a wildly popular article:

WASHINGTON, Dec. 16, 2008 -- Nothing says Merry Christmas quite like a photo of sweet little toddlers screaming at Santa.

A few years ago the Chicago Tribune asked readers to send in their "Scared of Santa" photos. Those photos are included at the Web site linked below as well as additional photos sent in by SouthFlorida.com, Sun-Sentinel.com and Chicago Tribune readers in subsequent years.

New photos are added to the end of the gallery.

Enjoy!

Click here to see the Scared of Santa gallery.

Tags: Christmas, holidays, Santa, Santa Claus, Xmas, Humor, Decline and Fall of Western Civ, Open Thread
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Photo Essay: US Navy Uniforms, New and Old

Sailors wear the Navy working uniform (NWU) at Naval Air Station Oceana, November 7. The NWU is intended for year-round wear and will be the standard working uniform ashore by October 2010. The NWU will replace working utilities, tropical working uniforms, wash khakis, winter working blue, aviation working green, and non-tactical/environmental usage of camouflage utility uniforms. Unless otherwise prescribed by the regional commander, the NWU is authorized to be worn at all facilities on base. (U.S. Navy Photo.)

A Chief Petty Officer wears the Navy working uniform (NWU) while shopping at the Naval Air Station Oceana Navy Exchange, November 7. The NWU is intended for year-round wear and will be the standard working uniform ashore by October 2010. The NWU will replace working utilities, tropical working uniforms, wash khakis, winter working blue, aviation working green, and non-tactical/environmental usage of camouflage utility uniforms. Unless otherwise prescribed by the regional commander, the NWU is authorized to be worn at all facilities on base. (U.S. Navy Photo.)

Chief petty officers pose for an "old-school" style photo in arresting gear engine room three aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), December 2. Theodore Roosevelt and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 are on deployment in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility and are focused on reassuring regional partners of the United States' commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class John Suits.)

Sailors wear the Navy working uniform (NWU) while shopping at the Naval Air Station Oceana Navy Exchange. The NWU is intended for year-round wear and will be the standard working uniform ashore by October 2010. The NWU will replace working utilities, tropical working uniforms, wash khakis, winter working blue, aviation working green, and non-tactical/environmental usage of camouflage utility uniforms. Unless otherwise prescribed by the regional commander, the NWU is authorized to be worn at all facilities on base. (U.S. Navy Photo.)

Ship's Serviceman 2nd Class Charles Clay, assigned to Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport, shops for the new service uniform at the Navy Exchange, December 1. The service uniform is intended for year-round wear and will replace the summer white and winter blue uniforms. The mandatory wear date for all E1-E6 personnel is July 2010. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Terry Spain.)

Yeoman 1st Class Dru Maclin models the new E-6 and below service uniform. The uniform is for year-round wear and replaces summer white and winter blue uniforms and will be available as follows: July, Great Lakes and California; Oct., Northwest and Hawaii; Jan. 2009, Gulf Region and Millington, Tenn.; April 2009, Naval District Washington; July 2009, Tidewater; Oct 2009 Southeast; Jan. 2010, Northeast; April 2010, Europe, Japan and Guam. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jhi L. Scott.)

Personnel Specialist 1st Class Howard Williams models the new E-6 and below Service Uniform. The uniform is for year-round wear and replaces summer white and winter blue uniforms and will be available as follows: July, Great Lakes and California; Oct., Northwest and Hawaii; Jan. 2009, Gulf Region and Millington, Tenn.; April 2009, Naval District Washington; July 2009, Tidewater; Oct 2009 Southeast; Jan. 2010, Northeast; April 2010, Europe, Japan and Guam. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jhi L. Scott.)

Focus on Defense:

WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2008 -- The Chief of Naval Personnel released detailed information about the delivery schedule, manner of wear and occasion for wear for the Navy Working Uniform (NWU) Dec. 2 in NAVADMIN 343/08.

An instructional video was also posted on the NPC Web site and on NKO.

According to the message, the NWU is intended for year-round wear and shall be the standard working uniform ashore. The NWU will replace working utilities, tropical working uniforms, wash khakis, winter working blue, aviation working green, and non-tactical/environmental usage of camouflage utility uniforms.

The NWU is designed to be worn in sea and ashore environments that do not require special clothing (e.g., flight, flight deck, engine room, etc.). Unless otherwise prescribed by the regional commander, the NWU is authorized to be worn at all facilities on base, while commuting to/from work and home via POV, public transportation, and on government/military flights to/from OCONUS locations.

Routine stops while commuting are not authorized with an exception for genuine emergencies, such as medical emergencies and vehicle breakdowns.

For environmental extremes the following modifications are authorized when granted by appropriate authority:

(1) The NWU shirt may be removed on job sites or in work spaces.
(2) NWU trousers may be worn unbloused on job sites or in workspaces.
(3) During the winter or inclement periods, the parka hood is authorized for wear in addition to head gear. Black leather gloves are authorized.

The NWU will be available for purchase via designated Navy Exchange Uniform Centers as follows:

Dec 08 - Navy leadership (flag officers, commanding officers/OICs, (9580/9579/9578) command master/senior chiefs, and chiefs of the boat) via Navy Exchange Uniform Support Center at 800-368-4088 or 757-502-7450.
Jan 09 - Tidewater
Apr 09 - Southeast
Jul 09 - Northeast
Oct 09 - Capital region
Jan 10 - Western/northwest
Apr 10 - Gulf region
Jul 10 - Hawaii
Oct 10 - Europe/Japan/Guam

All existing working uniforms will continue to be authorized for wear until December 2010. Sailors who have not been issued NWU's at recruit training command or purchased NWU's while assigned to an active rollout location must maintain their current working uniforms until the NWU is available in the area assigned. This policy also applies to Sailors wearing the new service uniform announced earlier in 2008.

FY08 and FY09 clothing replacement allowances have been adjusted to facilitate purchasing four sets of NWU shirts and trousers by December 2010. Reserve component Sailors will receive their uniforms via their respective Navy Operational Support Centers.

For more information on uniforms and uniform policy, visit the uniform matters Web site.

(Report from Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs.)

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USS Peleliu Thwarts Pirate Attack in Gulf of Aden

The Tarawa-class amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) steams through the South China Sea in this 2008 file photo. Peleliu is the flagship of the Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group and is on a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Scott Webb.)

The M/V Gem of Kilakarai was attacked by pirates in small boats at approximately 7 a.m. while operating approximately 80 miles north of the coast of Somalia. The U.S. Navy Coalition warship USS Peleliu, with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, was operating in the area and responded to a distress call, and was able to thwart the attack. Peleliu is currently deployed in support of Maritime Security Operations in the Navy's 5th Fleet area of responsibility. MSO help develop security in the maritime environment, which promotes stability and global prosperity. These operations complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations, and seek to disrupt violent extremist's use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. (Photographer: Kevin McCall, Navy Visual News Service.)

Suspected pirates flee the scene near the M/V Gem of Kilakarai. The Gem of Kilakarai reported being under attack at approximately 7 a.m. while operating 80 miles north of the coast of Somalia. The U.S. Navy Coalition warship USS Peleliu, with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, was operating in the area and responded to a distress call, and was able to thwart the attack. Peleliu is currently deployed in support of Maritime Security Operations in the Navy's 5th Fleet area of responsibility. MSO help develop security in the maritime environment, which promotes stability and global prosperity. These operations complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations, and seek to disrupt violent extremist's use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. (Photographer: Kevin McCall, Navy Visual News Service.)

Suspected pirates flee the scene near the M/V Gem of Kilakarai. The Gem of Kilakarai reported being under attack at approximately 7 a.m. while operating 80 miles north of the coast of Somalia. The U.S. Navy Coalition warship USS Peleliu, with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, was operating in the area and responded to a distress call, and was able to thwart the attack. Peleliu is currently deployed in support of Maritime Security Operations in the Navy's 5th Fleet area of responsibility. MSO help develop security in the maritime environment, which promotes stability and global prosperity. These operations complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations, and seek to disrupt violent extremist's use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. (Photographer: Kevin McCall, Navy Visual News Service.)

The M/V Gem of Kilakarai was attacked by pirates in small boats at approximately 7 a.m. while operating approximately 80 miles north of the coast of Somalia. The U.S. Navy Coalition warship USS Peleliu, with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, was operating in the area and responded to a distress call, and was able to thwart the attack. Peleliu is currently deployed in support of Maritime Security Operations in the Navy's 5th Fleet area of responsibility. MSO help develop security in the maritime environment, which promotes stability and global prosperity. These operations complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations, and seek to disrupt violent extremist's use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. (Photographer: Kevin McCall, Navy Visual News Service.)

Dispatches from the Front:

NOTE: Updated with new imagery, content; Aug. 10, 2008.

GULF OF ADEN, Aug. 8, 2008 -- USS Peleliu (LHA 5) and embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (15th MEU) stopped a pirate attack of a civilian merchant vessel Aug. 8 approximately 80 miles north of Somalia while conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO).

Under the direction of Combined Task Force 51 (CTF 51), Peleliu responded to a call for help from the merchant vessel Gem of Kilakarai at approximately 7 a.m. when the ship reported it was under attack from armed pirates in two small boats with weapons and rifle-launched grenades.

Operating approximately 10 miles away from the merchant vessel when the distress call was received, Peleliu altered her course to intercept the suspected pirate vessels and launched three helicopters.

The two suspected pirate vessels then fled the scene.

Gem of Kilakarai reported one grenade landed on the ship's bridge wing during the attack, but failed to detonate. No injuries were reported. Explosive ordnance personnel from the 15th MEU are currently assisting the Gem of Kilakarai in an effort to defuse the unexploded grenade. The merchant vessel was reportedly traveling towards the Suez Canal when the attack took place in the Gulf of Aden.

Peleliu is the flag ship of the Peleliu Strike Group and the 15th MEU which is currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to conduct MSO. MSO help develop security in the maritime environment, which promotes stability and global prosperity. These operations complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

(From a Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group Pubic Affairs news release.)

Related Article: Combat Camera: Aboard USS Peleliu; June 1, 2008

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Combat Camera: US and Iraqi Soldiers Patrol Around Baghdad

U.S. Army Spc. Daniel Brooks and a fellow Soldier take a minute of downtime after gearing up for a combined patrol with Iraqi Police in the Ghazaliya district, Baghdad, Iraq on July, 17, 2008. Brooks is in 2nd Platoon, Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. (Photographer: Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Ryan Chang and Iraqi police Lt. Akil walk out of JSS Ghaz 4 during a combined patrol in the Ghazaliya district, Baghdad, Iraq on July, 17, 2008. Chang is Platoon Leader, 2nd Platoon, Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. (Photographer: Spc. Charles Gill, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

An Iraqi boy watches as U.S. Army Spc. Justin Officer passes by during a combined dismounted patrol with Iraqi Police in the Ghazaliya district, Baghdad, Iraq on July, 17, 2008. Officer is in 2nd Platoon, Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. (Photographer: Spc. Charles Gill, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

A local sheik greets U.S. Army Capt. Brian Sweigart, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division at a newly constructed school in the Al Awad region of Iraq, July 17, 2008. (Photographer: Spc. Daniel Herrera, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

An Iraqi girl hangs around a school in Al Awad, Iraq, July 17, 2008. (Photographer: Spc. Daniel Herrera, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

A U.S. soldier from 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division patrols the playground of a school under renovation in the Al Awad region of Iraq, July 17, 2008. (Photographer: Spc. Daniel Herrera, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

U.S. Army Spc. Eric Waddle, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, takes a break as he observes Iraqi workers renovating a school in Al Awad, Iraq, July 17, 2008. (Photographer: Spc. Daniel Herrera, Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq.)

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Combat Camera: Life Tastes Better at Fallujah KFC

Local teenagers from the Hey Al Dubat area of Fallujah, Iraq, hang out during the afternoon near a Kentucky Fried Chicken July 16, 2008. Since the opening nearly seven months ago, the business has flourished and attracts many customers in the nearby area. (Photographer: Cpl. Chris Mann, Regimental Combat Team 1.)

Marines with Battery M, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, order food from a Kentucky Fried Chicken in the Hey Al Dubat area of Fallujah, Iraq. The Marines stopped by the fast food restaurant during operations that place in the area. (Photographer: Cpl. Chris Mann, Regimental Combat Team 1.)

Employees at a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant prepare chicken for Marines who stopped by to order food July 16. Increased security in the Hey Al Dubat area of Fallujah, Iraq, has allowed this restaurant and others to become popular eateries with local citizens. (Photographer: Cpl. Chris Mann, Regimental Combat Team 1.)

Employees at a Kentucky Fried Chicken prepare chicken during the work day for Marines with Battery M, 3rd Batallion, 11th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, July 16. (Photographer: Cpl. Chris Mann, Regimental Combat Team 1.)

Dispatches from the Front:

FALLUJAH, Iraq, July 20, 2008 -- Only a short time ago the city of Fallujah served as stronghold for insurgents. Daily skirmishes, improvised explosive device detonations and public unease made operating a business in the city very difficult.

Today, with improved security throughout the region, the low price of 4,000 dinar, or $3.50, will purchase a full meal at the recently established Kentucky Fried Chicken in the Hey Al Dubat area of the city.

The KFC is the first to open for business in the city. Before improved conditions in the city, insurgents threatened business owners, demanding money to support acts of terrorism.

After a quick visit to the Fallujah Business Center during routine operations July 16, Marines with Regimental Combat Team 1’s Security Platoon and with Information Operations, talked with employees at the franchise to evaluate its success.

“We stopped to check up on the KFC to see how things were going,” said 1st Lt. Michael C. Bryant, platoon commander with Battery M, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, RCT 1. ”You can tell that the area is returning to normal, especially when you see fast food places in the area doing so well.”

The restaurant has several employees, and three that work full time. Employees there serve an average 25 customers per day.

The Marines often take time to assess economic progress and gauge community activities during missions in the city.

After several short conversations with employees and patrons, the Marines ordered food to take back to Camp Fallujah for lunch.

“I think it is awesome to see a business doing so well in Fallujah, and not have to worry about safety or corruption,” said Bryant, a 25-year-old from Colorado Springs, Colo.

Security over the past several years has reached an all-time high in Fallujah and many of the surrounding areas. The increase can be accredited to coalition forces conducting patrols and security missions, as well as Iraqi police and Iraqi army retaking control of a majority of the Anbar region.

“I remember when I was here last in July 2004 and things were much different than they are now,” said Sgt. Steve J. Arnoux, a 25-year-old vehicle commander from Browning, Mont. “When we would go out on convoys in the city, the attitude was a lot different. It seemed like we were just waiting to get ambushed. Now we stop at KFC.”

Citizens of the area can now work steady jobs, where as prior conditions kept many from even coming to work on a daily basis.

“I love the work here, because we have the opportunity to go to work every day,” said a KFC employee.

(Story by Cpl. Chris T. Mann, Regimental Combat Team 1 Public Affairs Office.)

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Combat Camera: Marines in Helmand Province, Afghanistan

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, NATO – International Security Assistance Force conduct operations in Garmsir District, Helmand province, Afghanistan, April 29, 2008. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Robert Piper, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs.)

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, NATO – International Security Assistance Force conduct operations in Garmsir District, Helmand province, Afghanistan. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Robert Piper, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs.)

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, NATO – International Security Assistance Force conduct operations in Garmsir District, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Robert Piper, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs.)

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, NATO – International Security Assistance Force conduct operations in Garmsir District, Helmand province, Afghanistan. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Robert Piper, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs.)

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, NATO – International Security Assistance Force conduct operations in Garmsir District, Helmand province, Afghanistan. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Robert Piper, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs.)

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, NATO – International Security Assistance Force conduct operations in Garmsir District, Helmand province, Afghanistan. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Robert Piper, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs.)

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, NATO – International Security Assistance Force conduct operations in Garmsir District, Helmand province, Afghanistan. (Photographer: Staff Sgt. Robert Piper, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs.)

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Combat Camera: Ambassadors of Hollywood Visit Troops in Iraq

Gabrielle Tuite, a member of the Ambassadors of Hollywood tour, adjusts the eye protection of Cpl. James Buckley, a Beaumont, Calif., native, while posing on March 14 with Cynthia Watros, in white, and Bonnie-Jill Laflin. Buckley serves with the Striker personal security detachment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad. (Photographer: Sgt. Zachary Mott, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Gabrielle Tuite, a member of the Ambassadors of Hollywood tour, poses with a belt of ammunition, March 14, for a Bradley Fighting Vehicle while visiting members of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, which is out of Fort Carson, Colo., and currently based at Camp Taji, Iraq. (Photographer: Sgt. Zachary Mott, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Sgt. Victor Clark, a Corpus Christi, Texas, native, shows Gabrielle Tuite, a member of the Ambassadors of Hollywood tour, how to operate a turret, March 14, in the Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected vehicle during the group's tour of Camp Taji. Clark serves a gunner with the Striker Personal Security Detachment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad. (Photographer: Sgt. Zachary Mott, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Staff Sgt. Roberto Martinez, a Dallas native, talks to Bonnie-Jill Laflin, a member of the Ambassadors of Hollywood tour, about the Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) Vehicle on March 14. Martinez serves with the striker personal security detachment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad. (Photographer: Sgt. Zachary Mott, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Staff Sgt. William Clawson, a Flemington, N.J., native, talks about the Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) Vehicle to Cynthia Watros, a member of the Ambassadors of Hollywood tour group, during a visit on March 14 to Camp Taji. Clawson serves as the platoon sergeant with Striker personal security detachment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad. (Photographer: Sgt. Zachary Mott, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs.)

Dispatches from the Front:

CAMP TAJI, Iraq, March 16, 2008 -- Morale is a precious thing. Leaders make every attempt possible to ensure it remains high, especially while deployed to Iraq for up to 15 months.

Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, which is based at Fort Carson, Colo., received a morale boost in the form of a visit from the ambassadors of Hollywood.

Cynthia Watros, most known for her role as Libby on the hit show “Lost,” Gabrielle Tuite, made famous through her work with World Wrestling Entertainment, and Bonnie-Jill Laflin, a former NBA cheerleader now working as a scout for the Los Angeles Lakers, visited the Striker soldiers at Camp Taji to help boost morale of the troops.

“I know that soldiers sometimes feel forgotten about, so I wanted to say thanks that let them know that they’re not forgotten about,” Tuite said.

The visit included a tour of the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle as well as the Bradley Fighting Vehicle. The trio, later joined by professional wrestler “Diamond” Dallas Page, also signed autographs at the Striker dining facility.

“It’s always nice to know that the people back home are thinking about us, that they still support us,” said Staff Sgt. William Clawson, the platoon sergeant for the Striker personal security detachment, 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

“It’s good for the soldiers; it’s good for their morale,” said the Flemington, N.J., native.

(Story by Sgt. Zach Mott, 3rd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Officer, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad.)

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Newly Christened Navy Ship 'New York' Evokes Memories, Resolve

AVONDALE, La. (Mar. 1, 2008) Mrs. Dottty England, wife of Deputy Secretary of Defense The Hon. Gordon England, christens the amphibious transport dock Pre-Commissioning Unit New York (LPD 21) at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding New Orleans. The bow of the New York is built with metal recovered from the World Trade Center site. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tiffini M. Jones (Released)

FILE PHOTO - Tugboats assigned to Naval Station Pearl Harbor assist San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans (LPD 18) to the pier at Fleet and Industrial Supply Center. The future USS New York (LPD 21) under construction at Northrop Grumman Ship Systems’ shipyard in Avondale, LA, will be the fifth amphibious transport dock of the San Antonio class. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael A. Lantron (Released)

AVONDALE, La. (Mar. 1, 2008) Deputy Secretary of Defense The Hon. Gordon England speaks during the christening ceremony for the amphibious transport dock USS New York (LPD 21) at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding New Orleans. The bow of the New York is built with metal recovered from the World Trade Center site. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Poe (Released)

AVONDALE, La. (Mar. 1, 2008) Retired New York City firefighter Ron Parker takes a photograph of the audience with the amphibious transport dock USS New York (LPD 21) in the background during the christening ceremony for the New York at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding New Orleans. The bow of the New York is built with metal recovered from the World Trade Center site. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Poe (Released)

Focus on Defense:

The bow of the New York is built with metal recovered from the World Trade Center site.

WASHINGTON, March 1, 2008 (AFPS) -- On what was described as a “fine Navy, Marine Corps day,” in New Orleans, Defense Department officials, servicemembers and distinguished guests gathered today to christen a tangible symbol of America’s mettle.

“This is a special day for a magnificent ship that has a special place in the heart of every American,” Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England said during the christening ceremony for USS New York.

Everyone in the country, he said, has felt a special connection with New York since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. “On the day the towers fell, all Americans were New Yorkers,” he said. It also is true then, England said, that the USS New York, with its bow stem forged from nearly 8 tons of steel salvaged from the wreckage of the World Trade Center, is America’s ship.

Video: New York Christening Ceremony
Pre-Commissioning Unit New York Christening Ceremony. Scenes include musical performer, speeches from the commanding officer and a montage about the history of the ship.
Sailing under the motto, “Never Forget,” the ship and its sister ships, the Arlington and Somerset, are living tributes to those killed on Sept. 11, England said. By virtue of its name, he added, New York also carries with it a reminder of the U.S. commitment to freedom.

According to naval tradition, the christening of a ship conveys the spirit of the vessel’s namesake. In this case, the christening may have been a formality, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead said.

“This timeless tradition that is essential in imbuing the spirit of a namesake into a ship may not even be required, because this ship is already imbued,” the admiral said. “It is forged. It is instilled with that identity already.

“(USS) New York will forever conjure the valor, the sacrifice, the heroism and the tenacity of that city, that state, and our nation,” he added.

The christening also is said to convey the spirit of the ship’s sponsor -- in this case, Dotty H. England, wife of the deputy defense secretary. The tradition goes a step further with the New York, she said.

“With this unique ship, we are also going to give it the spirit of the 9/11 heroes, the spirit of New Yorkers and the indomitable spirit of Americans,” she said. “We will keep that same spirit in our hearts and minds forever.”

The fifth San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock will transport Marines and their equipment. It also will support amphibious assault, special operations and expeditionary missions.

Though the USS New York has yet to welcome its first crew aboard, the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps began writing its storied legacy today.

“In the long years of this warship’s service life, she will help defend America and our allies and friends. Through (that) service, future generations will proudly honor … all of the fallen angels of 9/11,” Gen. Robert Magnus said.

“As sure as day follows the night, good follows evil,” he added. “As you’ve heard (it said), ‘If it takes those who guard the streets of heaven - and it does – to follow evil into the gates of hell, they will come from ships like New York.”

When New York is officially commissioned into the Navy’s fleet in New York City next year, it will carry with it a reminder for all future crews why it’s more than just another new ship.

On Sept. 11, 2006, Boy Scout Troop 40 from Hopewell Junction presented the Navy with a flag flown above Ground Zero.

“Faded, frayed, still bearing the dust and debris from its silent watch, it was an extraordinary gift that will grace the ship forever,” said Navy Rear Adm. Charles H. Goddard, Program Executive Office, Ships. “I can think of no more fitting reminder that freedom is not free.”

Defense contractor Northrop Grumman Corp. built the 684-foot ship, which can accommodate 800 Marines in addition to its crew. The corporation has a long history building ships for the Navy that includes building many of the ships in President Theodore Roosevelt’s “Great White Fleet.”

It’s a tradition Northrop Grumman’s chairman and chief executive officer said his company is proud to continue with USS New York.

“No matter how many times she carries young Americans into battle, we can be confident that like her namesake, New York, she may know damage, but she’ll never know defeat,” said Ronald Sugar.

And the ship already has proven to be tough, as it took Dotty England two swings to break the bottle of champagne on its bow.

(Story by Samantha L. Quigley, American Forces Press Service.)

Related: USS New York Fact Sheet

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