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FRONTLINEServing the Fort Stewa rt and Hunter Army Airfield comm unities (w ww.stewart.army.mil) December 13, 2007

T STD U.S. Postag e Pa idPermit no. 43,

nesville, Ga . 31314

41, Issue 48

Tominac FitnessCenter offers freepersonal trainers,See Page 1C

THE

Pat Young

The 3rd Infantry Division Color Guard marched in the 11th annual Christmas parade in downtown Hinesville, Dec. 9 to the thunderous applaud of thousands of community members in attendance. See story on Page 8B.

Gates applaudsoldiers’ successMiles

an Forces Press Service

HDAD, Iraq - Defense Secretary M. Gates talked with Iraqi leadersS. commanders Dec. 5 to exploreo maintain momentum built inmonths and continue to build on

s met with Iraqi President Jalalni, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki,e Minister Abd al-Qadir al-Mufriji

S. commanders. On his sixth visit

as defense secretary, Gates noted vastsecurity improvements.

During a joint news conference withMufriji, Gates cited "recent months of dramatic change in the security situationacross the nation, a decline in violence tolevels not seen since the Samarra mosquebombing nearly two years ago."

As Coalition and Iraqi operations havepushed terrorists out of much of southernand western Iraq, they've brought a senseof normalcy and hope to areas that had

long gone without it, he told reporters.

na Curtisr Public Affairs

torically, living in on-post housing t that Families could use as muchicity and or gas that they wantedthout financial accountability.

ver, that is about to change.ny Hunter Army Airfield residentsn attendance at the New Gannam

Community Center, Dec. 5, upset andconfused about the new mock billing process now conducted at Hunter andFort Stewart.

When the meeting adjourned, howev-er, most in attendance departed with abetter understanding of the basis and

methodology to be used to equitably calculate utility bills for on-post resi-dents.

GATES Page 8A

MOCK Page 8A

nstallation residentso receive mock bills

atele

ne Staff

ewart, Ga. - The Fort Stewart andr Army Airfield Department of Works’ housing department has

working with Soldiers from ther’s in Transition unit in the assess-

ment of the barracks on both installa-tions.

“The Residential Army Community Initiative main propose is to provide Army Families with quality housing andincluded in that initiative is theUnaccompanied Personnel Housing pro-gram,” said Chris Curry, RCI Director.

RCI Page 8A

CI employs WTU Soldiers

Gail AldridgePublic Affairs Specialist

Three World War II veterans were among thearea veterans who met Saturday at the Georgia Army National Guard Armory in Hinesville forthe Annual Pearl Harbor Day ObservanceCeremony.

This event, sponsored each year by theDisabled American Veterans, Chapter 46 in

Hinesville featured guest speaker Col. John P.Collins, U.S. Army Medical Department Activity Commander. MEDDAC also provided a ColorGuard, who posted and retired the colors for theceremony. Collins reflected on the events of December 7, 1941.

He said history records the text of PresidentRoosevelt's "Day of Infamy" speech given over

public radio to the Congress of the UnitedStates, December 8, 1941, when Roosevelt said,"Yesterday, December 7, 1941 - a date which willlive in infamy - the United States of America wassuddenly and deliberately attacked by naval andair forces of the Empire of Japan. AsCommander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy, Ihave directed that all measures be taken for ourdefense. No matter how long it may take us toovercome this premeditated invasion, the

American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory. With confi-dence in our armed forces - with the unbound-ed determination of our people - we will gainthe inevitable triumph - so help us God."

Garlon Penland, commander of DAV Chapter46, stated he was glad to have World War II vet-erans attend the memorial service.

WWII veterans attend annual

Pearl Harbor Day observance

See PEARL Page 2A



Frontline December 13, 2007 3rd Infantry Division

Gen. Rick Lynchf. Div. commanding general

hough we are doing important work ere, we can focus on the fight because

ny wonderfully supportive members of nesville Community, but I would likeus on one man – Mayor Tom Ratcliffe.30 years in the Army, I have never seenmunity embrace its local military basech as Hinesville; and it that is largely the fact that Mayor Ratcliffe is a man

on. He is truly a selfless servant, andrked hard every day to meet the needscommunity, most especially the mili-embers of the community.or Ratcliffe worked tirelessly to make

ville not just a community, but a home;dedicated himself to serving our mil-

itary Families. Everything hedid revolved around helping our Families, and as adeployed division, there is nomore important task.

There is a lot I worry aboutover here. Task Force Marnehas 20,000 Soldiers and a bat-tlefield the size of the state of West Virginia. When we gotover here, our Soldiers weresuffering attacks by the hour.In May alone, I attended 29memorial services for our fall-en heroes. Security is muchbetter now, and just last week the Divisionsuffered no casualties and no fatalities.

But I spent no time worrying about ourFamilies because I knew Mayor Ratcliffe had

the reins back home. Heinsured all of our Soldiers’Families were taken care of,and I can never express how much the Division appreci-

ates his leadership.The 3rd Infantry Divisionand its Soldiers are indebtedto Mayor Ratcliffe. More thanever before, a lot of ourSoldiers are choosing to retirein Hinesville – they want tostay there, they want to keeptheir children in schools there,and they want to find jobs

there. All of that is a testament to MayorRatcliffe’s hard work toward building astronger community. For those of us in themilitary, we tend to retire in the community

we feel most at home, and for our Dog FaceSoldiers, Mayor Ratcliffe made Fort Stewarttheir home.

As we farewell Mayor Ratcliffe, we wel-come Mayor Jim Thomas. Mayor Thomas is a

retired military officer, so he understandsthat military Families are the Nation’s mostprecious resource. The 3rd Infantry Divisionlooks forward to working as closely withMayor Thomas as it did with Mayor Ratcliffe.

Although the 3rd Infantry Division is cur-rently deployed in support of the Global Waron Terrorism for the third time, I don’t loseany sleep wondering if our Families are being cared for because I know that Hinesville is watching out for them and taking care ofthem as their own.

Rock of the Marne!

Marne 6 SendsG thanks Mayor Ratcliffe, Hinesville, Families

e

McBrayertewart Museum

December 1944, two Soldiersrecognized with the nation’st award, the Medal of Honor.

Marne Soldiers earned thein separate locations, 1st Lt.

s P. Murray, Jr, Company C,Infantry, near Kaysersberg,e, on Dec. 16; and 1st Lt. Eliy, Company L, 15th Infantry,lsheim, France, Dec. 27.

citations can be read at theewart Museum.

ay, Jr.commanding Co. C, 30th

ry, displaying supremege and heroic initiative near

Kaysersberg, France, on Dec. 16,1944, while leading a reinforced pla-toon into enemy territory.

Descending into a valley beneathhilltop positions held by our troops,he observed a force of 200 Germanspouring deadly mortar, bazooka,machinegun, and small arms fireinto an American battalion occupy-ing the crest of the ridge.

The enemy's position in a sunkenroad, though hidden from the ridge, was open to a flank attack by 1st Lt.

Murray's patrol but he hesitated tocommit so small a force to battle with the superior and strongly dis-posed enemy. Crawling out aheadof his troops to a vantage point, hecalled by radio for artillery fire.

His shells bracketed the Germanforce, but when he was about to cor-rect the range his radio went dead.He returned to his patrol, secured

out a truck.By that time a mortar had been

brought to his support. 1st Lt.Murray directed fire of this weapon,causing further casualties and con-fusion in the German ranks.

Calling on his patrol to follow, hethen moved out toward his originalobjective, possession of a bridgeand construction of a roadblock.

He captured 10 Germans in fox-holes. An eleventh, while pretend-ing to surrender, threw a grenade

which knocked him to the ground,inflicting eight wounds.

Though suffering and bleeding profusely, he refused to return to therear until he had chosen the spot forthe block and had seen his men cor-rectly deployed.

By his single-handed attack on anoverwhelming force and by hisintrepid and heroic fighting, 1st Lt.

killed its two defenders.Hurling smoke and fragmenta-

tion grenades before him, hereached the next house andstormed inside, killing two and cap-turing 11 of the enemy.

He continued leading his platoonin the extremely dangerous task of clearing hostile troops from strong points along the street until hereached a building held by fanaticalNazi troops.

Although suffering from wounds

which had rendered his left armuseless, he advanced on this strong-ly defended house, and after blast-ing out a wall with bazooka fire,charged through a hail of bullets.

Wedging his submachinegununder his uninjured arm, he rushedinto the house through the holetorn by his rockets, killed five of theenemy and forced the remaining 12

spearheaded an attack whichcracked the core of enemy resis-tance in a vital area.

moment in Marne History: Murray, Jr., Whitely awarded MoH

anguard Company

olds patch ceremonyAmanda McBrideCT Public Affairs

RWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU,– Soldiers from Headquarters andquarters Company, 4th Brigadeat Team, 3rd Infantry Division,ed their Shoulder Sleeve Insignia for

er Wartime Service during a ceremo-d at FOB Kalsu, Dec. 5.insignia, commonly known as the

at patch, was presented to Vanguard

ers in a ceremony recognizing ers deployed to a combat zone.. Thomas James, commander, 4th3rd Inf. Div., told the Soldiers how

al it was to be a part of the ceremony.made his way through the formation

ng hands and personally congratulat-ch Soldier.is is a special day for all of us,” JamesYou and I wear on our right shoulder

ch Audie Murphy wore, that Sgt. 1stPaul Smith wore, and the thousandshousands of other Marne Warriorserved in World War I to the presentworn.”er the ceremony, James gathered theers in an impromptu horseshoe for-

mation in front of the BrigadeHeadquarters and said the VanguardSoldiers are making history just by being here.

Command Sgt. Maj. Louis Torres, com-mand sergeant major, 4th BCT, 3rd Inf.Div., echoed James’ sentiment and told theSoldiers to be proud of the patch they now wear and to wear it with pride.

“You earned your combat patch, so wearit proud like everybody else before youdid,” Torres said. “Do not ever think, no

matter wherever you work or whatever sec-tion you work in, that you didn’t earn thiscombat patch.”

This is the 4th BCT, 3rd Inf. Div.’s secondtour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedomsince its activation in 2004.

Pfc. Amanda McBride

Sgt. Dameon Dugar, assigned to HHC,stands in formation during the patch ceremony held Dec. 5. The Shoulder Sleeve Insignia for Former Wartime Service patch, know as the combat patch, is given to deployed Soldiers in a combat zone.



ck of the Marne Frontline 3A December 13, 2007 The

Valerie Meadows

Infantry Brigade, First Army Public Affairs

er 500 Soldiers and Family members from across theof Georgia gathered at Fort Stewart for a weekend of ports, classes, and remembrance, Dec. 1 and 2.e 188th Infantry Brigade, a First Army training unit,d in its Soldiers from Fort Gillem, Ga. in the Atlantaand Stewart in order to “create an environment thatres connections between the unit and our Families, tolish the foundation for an effective, vibrant, and

s-based Family readiness network,” said Col. Georgey, III, brigade commander.

and his wife, Mindy Geczy, spearheaded the event,ned by his battalion commanders and staff, under the

dination of the brigade chaplain, Capt. David Clark.e want to get the Families together, find out what theirness requirements are, give them relevant informationng from finance to upcoming missions, build relationsthe garrison, and most of all, have fun with our kidsamilies,” Clark explained.

e day started off with a 1.8 mile fun-run around Jamesn Park in Hinesville, culminating at the Armedces YMCA who provided their facilities, time, and

to support the unit. Christina Anthony of the ASYM-ganized vendors, games, inflatables, and rides for the

ers and their Families. Canon Rooker of Richmond Hillthe Children’s Run. Kent Smith of the 2nd Battalion,Logistical Support, won the adult run. Hundreds of

s participated in the walk.er the run, the brigade moved over to the AS YMCA tball gym for a briefing on the upcoming mission, orczy put it, “What mommy or daddy is going to be

g here and why it is important enough that they have tone from home for the next three months.”nding on a wooden map of Stewart, each battalion

mander explained what his unit’s mission was in termshe children could understand. Lt. Col. John Burnham,

mander of 1st Battalion, 347th Combat Support,bat Service Support, related his unit’s maintenances to the changing of tires and oil in parents’ cars.Col. Terry Meyer spoke about his combat lifesavers,mergency medical response Soldiers. Combat life-s have saved thousands of lives in Iraq with their train-

Meyer said.diers and Family memebers then were briefed once, scams and fraud, Military One Source, teen

net security, deployment stress, Tricare, parenting s and anger management. A separate room was setfor the teenagers known as the Teen Café, with sever-

me sets, a popcorn machine, and videos.er the classes, the Soldiers jumped right into the com-ve sports to include flag football, Walley Ball (volley n a racquet ball court using the walls, a very fast paced

game), horseshoes, and bas-ketball.

Outside, children played inthe playground, on the inflat-able obstacle course andslide, dipped their hands in wax to make colored hands,ate funnel cakes, and rode thehorses brought by one of thevendors. There was an artsand crafts tent where Familiesand Soldiers painted four-inch marble squares, eachdedicated to a Stewart Soldierkilled in Iraq.

Once the sports competi-tions were done, CommandSgt. Maj. Joseph Mayfield,brigade command sergeantmajor, passed out certificatesto the winners. Chaplain Jonathon Fisher held the raffledrawing for a $100 gift certificate. Willie Sibert was the win-ner. Fisher also raffled off a handful of toys for the children.

On Sunday, Clark led a Sunrise Service at Cottrell Field.Opened with a selection of songs by the Fort Stewart YouthChallenge Choir, the non-denominational service contin-ued with an inspirational reading from Charlotte Seabrook of the 188th Brigade. Sgt. 1st Class Kent Smith read fromthe Old Testament, and Fisher sang a medley of devotionalsongs.

The Memorial Remembrance Ceremony followed theservice. With a greeting by Jeff Fornshell, 3rd Infantry Division, followed by a rendition of the Star Spangled

Banner by Staff Sgt. Patricia Isaac, Geczy led the brigade inthe Soldier’s Creed. The guest speaker was the HonorableJack Kingston, congressman for Georgia District 1.

After the ceremony, the Soldiers and Families of theBrigade placed the memorial tiles they had made the day before beneath the tree dedicated to the fallen Soldier whothey had selected to remember.

Some Soldiers had special requests, a friend or a Soldierfrom their previous unit. The Soldiers and Families walkedalong the Warrior’s Walk, taking time to read the names of the Soldiers who had given their lives for freedom.

After the memorial, the brigade met at Club Stewart for aChristmas buffet brunch. During the brunch, Geczy pro-moted seven Soldiers: Sgt. Dong Vue, Sgt. 1st Class LesterLeggette, Maj. Kermit Thomas, Maj. Pete Hu, Maj. ThomasHayes, and Lt. Col. James West.

Rounding out the weekend was a change of commandceremony for the Logistical Support Battalion. After pro-moting Col. Robert Thompson and recognizing his wife,LaTonya Thompson for all of her volunteer work as theFamily Readiness Advisor for the brigade as well as her bat-

talion, Geczy passed the battalion guidon to Maj. Anna L.Rego, the incoming LSB commander. Thompson will bemoving to an Army Reserve unit in Florida.

The 188th Brigade is leading the team of four First Army brigades that are providing mobilization and deploymenttraining for the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team fromthe Indiana National Guard for their deployment to Iraq.

They will be arriving at Stewart in January and will soondeploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Using theTheater Immersion concept of tough, realistic, stressful, 24-7 training, the First Army team is going to conduct training that simulates the actual conditions and missions they willface in theater as closely as possible.

Other units in the First Army team include 4th Cavalry Brigade from Fort Knox, Ky.; the 158th Infantry Brigadefrom Patrick Air Force Base, Fla.; and the 205th Brigade whois conducting the training at Camp Atterbury, Ind. Thethree brigades who will be at Stewart (188th, 158th, and 4th) will be running the ranges, classes, forward operating bases, and all training and administrative support, as wellas the liaison with the Stewart garrison.

The 76th will be bringing approximately 3,000 Soldiershere. The three training brigades will have approximately 1,000 Soldiers to train and support them. They includeactive Army, mobilized Reserves, part time Reserves, andactive Guard and Reserve Soldiers.

The vast majority of these Soldiers are experienced non-commissioned officers and officers who have served atleast one mobilization and deployment. Many are former3rd Inf. Div. or 48th Inf. Div. Soldiers who deployed out of Stewart themselves. They know training, they know the the-ater, and are determined to give the 76th Soldiers the bestpossible training to ensure their mission accomplishmentand survival.

Family day

kicks off

188th Bde’straining,

support

Maj. Valerie MeadowsCommand Sgt. Maj. Joseph Mayfield scores a touchdown during the 188th Inf. Bde.Commander’s Connections Conference flag football tournament.



ny of you are familiar with the

E. program that is taught in our

hools. One of the program require-

s that each student writes an essayr to graduate. Essays are judged by

rs, D.A.R.E. officers and Fort

t Police Department personnel. One

winner is selected from each

and they are awarded a prize.

overall winners are Kayla Asher

Brittin Elementary, Madison Fuller

Diamond Elementary, and Lauren

om Kessler Elementary. The follow-

say is written by Lauren Prox.

out the Dec. 20 issue of the

ne to read Madison Fuller’s win-

say.

n Proxer Elementary

RE is a great education programas taught me about the dangersugs and violence. In DARE, Id how to make decisions about

wn life. DARE stands for drug, resistance, education. Lots of

e use drugs to solve health prob-n their lives, but the way com-s advertise drugs makes kidsto try them. DARE teaches kidsthe dangers of drugs because

wise kids wouldn’t know aboutangers associated with using

Drugs affect different parts of thebody. The main parts that I learnedabout are the brain, lungs, heart, andliver. In DARE, I learned the shortterm effect of drugs is mainly loss of

coordination. The long term effectsare damage to some or all main organparts. In addition, it is illegal to buy drugs.

Some people don’t know how to say no to drugs. In DARE, I learned thatthere are a lot of different ways to say no to drugs. I can say no by screaming “NO!” Really loud. I can also practiceby saying no to myself in a mirror ortaking turns saying no with a friend.

Violence is an act of aggression. Violence can come from peer pres-sure. In DARE, I learned peer pressure

is when people try to get me to dothings I know I shouldn’t do. I can getinto a violent situation by fighting and

joining gangs. I believe that I shouldfind other things to do instead of join-ing in on violence, so I catch butter-flies.

In life, I learned that sometimesthere are so many decisions for me tomake. So I ask myself, what steps doI take to make the right decisions? Ilearned by using the DARE decisionmaking model I can make the rightdecisions. The D stands for define. A stands for assess. R stands forrespond. E stands for evaluate. Definemeans think about what the problemis. Assess means think about yourchoices. Respond stands for pick achoice. Evaluate means think about if you made a good or bad choice.

I have learned so many thingsabout drugs and violence fromSergeant Thompson and SergeantBarron. They are great teachers. They taught me that I should never dodrugs. Now, I choose to be drug free.

My PledgeI pledge allegiance to my life, to stay

drug free day and night. I will sharemy knowledge of drugs and alcohol with everyone I meet, because withdrugs and alcohol your life cannot becomplete.

3rd Infantry DivisionFrontline December 13, 2007e

What do you want for Christmas?Marne Voices

Speak Out

“I want my dad to be safe inIraq, and when my mom has the

baby, I want the baby to behealthy.

Jasmine Smith3rd Grade Kessler Elementary

A Golden Retriever puppy.”

Jade TurnerGrade, Kessler Elementary

“An MP4 player and aNintendo DS Lite.”

Quentina Brown6th Grade Kessler Elementary

Our Goal:

300,000

10%20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

STEWART-

HUNTER HAS

CONTRIBUTED

A TOTAL OF

$266,605.92

FOR

89 PERCENT

OF OUR GOAL

AS OF DEC. 5.

Stewart – Hunter CFC 2007

Date extended until Dec. 14

Its not to late to help

$

ewart congratulates DARE essay winner, Lauren Prox

Lauren Prox

al to the Frontline

ar Soldiers, Family Members, DA Civilians, Retirees,Contractors,this time of the year, we are particularly reminded of

mportance of reaching out to others, both on the instal-and in our local communities.

e of the ways the military community of Fort Stewartmpact the quality of life for all those who live and work e installation is through the Army Community Heritage

Partnership Program. The goal of this program is to betterserve the needs of the total Army Family by enhancing Hinesville shopping, restaurants, recreational and enter-tainment opportunities.

As a member of the Fort Stewart military community youmay receive an email with a link attached to a survey about your perceptions, experiences, and interests in downtownHinesville. The results of this survey will help provide direc-tion as we continue with the development of this program.

Your candid comments are truly appreciated. I want to

encourage you to take a few minutes and share yourthoughts.

The Army is strong because our Army Team makes a dif-ference in the community and to the Nation. Thank you for your continued support.

Colonel Todd A. BuchsStewart – Hunter Garrison Commander

elp serve the Army Family’s needs with ACHPP

ation safety office

e holidays draw near, decorative lighting ecial effects become important compo-

of the festive season. Christmas trees, inlar, are a traditional part of the season.ough they are special, trees pose a defi-ety risk. If you’re using a natural tree thisduce the risk of a tree fire by taking a few tions.ose a freshly cut green tree, not one thated out through weeks of storage. If you

ying one from a tree lot, tap the trunk on

und; if several needles fall off, it’s too dry.s that bend and are not easily pulled off e a fresh tree.sider a potted Christmas tree so you canin your yard once the holidays are over.

setting it up, cut one to two inches diag-off the butt. The tree will draw waterasily from a fresh cut. Stand the tree in abucket of water and keep the tree trunk sed to prevent the tree from drying out.ct a safe location for the tree, away fromand curtains and from drying and heat-

ing sources such as registers, radiators and tele-vision sets.

Don’t block doors or windows, which mightbe used to escape in an emergency and never,put a tree near a fireplace. Use a tree-stand with widespread legs for better balance and a large water reserve in which to immerse the tree butt.Check the water level every day and add moreas required.

Check your Christmas lights for defects.Spread them out on a non-flammable surfacebefore installing them. Make sure there are nobroken bulbs, all-electrical cords are free of cuts

or frays and the plugs are in good condition. Useonly UL-listed lights, and no more than threestrands linked together. Extension cords shouldnever be placed under carpets or where they could be a tripping hazard. Don’t leave theChristmas tree lights on if there is no one in theroom.

If the tree begins to lose an excessive amountof needles, remove it immediately. Never burn your tree in the fireplace. These safety tips willhelp prevent your holiday plans from going upin smoke!

void holiday fire hazardsGeneral Charles C.CampbellArmy Forces Command

The holiday season is a special time forus all to honor traditions, reflect on themany advantages we enjoy as Americans, and renew our hope for abright future. We in the Army Family have an opportunity to re-commit our-selves to the ideals our nation holds dear- peace, freedom, and good will towardmankind. Those meals are especially dear to us, as we fully understand their

costThanks to your willingness to serve

voluntarily and shoulder the solemnresponsibility of public service, our landand way of life are protected and contin-ue to set the example to those around the world who seek dignity, opportunity, andfreedom from tyranny. Thanks to yourefforts as an American Soldier, as a sup-portive Family member, or as a DA civil-

ian employee, our country and our fellow citizens are defended against the forcesof fear, hatred, and oppression. My hopeis that you find encouragement andstrength in knowing how many peopleare inspired by your service, your dedica-tion, your professionalism, your self-sac-rifice, and your courage.

As you gather together with friendsand Family during the coming days, I ask that you keep in your thoughts your fel-low Soldiers who cannot be with theirloved ones this year because they are

doing their duty far from home. Take amoment to pause and take pride in themand in the bond you share with them.

As you and your Family travel during this holiday period, remember to keepsafety in your plans and prepare forunforeseen emergencies. It is importantthat we bring every member back safely.

I wish you a safe/enjoyable holiday season and a happy, fulfilling new year.

FORSCOM Cdr calls for safety




atalie RostekBCT Public Affairs

RWARD OPERATING BASEME R, I ra q – Soldiers fromany B, 1st Battalion, 15thry Regiment uncovered aons cache Dec. 1 in Al Ja’aradelivering kerosene to local citi-

ording to 1st Lt. Matt Barwick,Lanham, Md., fire support offi-r Co. B, Soldiers were delivering

liters of kerosene to the villageWhile conducting the transfer

received information regarding

cation of a possible weapons

e went to the location and therestack of hay about six or sevenigh,” he said. “Four Soldiers

d digging.”wick said Pfc. Mark Hayes, fromville, Ky., Pvt. Phillip Crum, fromi, Fla., Spc. Mishael Francois,Trinidad, Africa, and Pfc. Steven

from Redding, Pa., dug through

the entire pile of hay to discover two75mm rockets, 17 grenades, 2 mor-tars, 10 pounds of a stripped propel-lant, and one two-liter bottle of explo-sive material.

“Finding this cache is a message toextremists in this area. They are notsafe and they can’t hide weapons. We will find them. This also severely dis-rupts extremist operations in AlJa’ara,” Barwick said.

Francois said he had an overwhelm-ing feeling come over him when, afterdigging through the haystack, hetouched objects that were not sup-posed to be there.

“It’s a rush,” Francois said. “I felt likethis is what we need to get more infor-mation. This is what we need to putthese criminals away. We got ‘em! I feltlike we were doing the right thing.”

Although excited about his find,Francois was humble.

“It’s what we do,” he said. “We goout there and look for this stuff. If wefind it, we find it. If we don’t find it, wego out there next time and try again.”

15th Infantry discoversache in haystack

evin StabinskyCT Public Affairs

RWARD OPERATING BASEU, Iraq – As a new unit transi-in, Hawr Rajab ConcernedCitizens continue to provideon Forces with a helping n providing security for their

The Concerned Local Citizensturned in a cache at Enduring

Checkpoint 20 in Hawr Rajab Nov.27 consisting of seven blasting caps, 13 pressure plates, two fireextinguishers and 28 two-liter bot-tles filled with homemade explo-sives.

An explosive ordnance disposalteam safely destroyed the contents

in a controlled detonation.Earlier this month, Soldiers of

the 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade CombatTeam, 3rd Infantry Division beganreplacing Paratroopers of the 1stSquadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment,4th BCT (Airborne), 25th Inf. Div.,Fort Richardson, Alaska, who areredeploying home after a 14-month

combat tour.Capt. Greg Curry, Troop A com-

mander, 6/8th Cav., said he hopesto continue the positive relation-ships set by the 1/40th Cav. Regt.and build on their hard work.

Curry, a Walnut Creek, Ohio,native, said his Soldiers are com-mitted to the Hawr Rajab peopleand will maintain a 24-hour pres-

ence in the city and continue tobuild security sites to prevent

insurgents threatening the localpopulation.

The same day in Hawr Rajab,seven Iraqis suspected of insurgentactivities were detained during a6/8th Cav. Regt. operation.

The detainees were brought back to FOB Falcon for questioning.

Sgt. 1st Class Robert Timmons

Pvt. George Delgado, an infantryman with Company A, 4th Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment Combined Arms Battalion “Tuskers,” 3rd Infantry Division, keeps an eye out for anything sus- picious outside of St. George’s Church in southern Baghdad’s Doura region Dec. 1.

awr Rajab CLCs turn in explosives cache to new unit



Frontline December 13, 2007e 3rd Infantry Division

Special to the Fronltine

The Boy Scouts of America, Troop454 are taking in donations of nonperishables, perishables, clothing,blankets, and toys.

They ask that all donations be indecent condition. The Troop will be

taking in donations Dec. 15.

If you wold like to donate but can’t

make it that day, please contact

Michelle Burkard, scoutmaster of

Troop 454, at 369-5589 or 230-2822.

All donations will profit less fortu-

nate military Families.

al to the Frontline

edicated and trained staff is ready toe and file your tax return starting Jan.

no charge at the Marne Tax Center,Gulick Avenue, building 617 and ther Legal Center at building 1211.r tax return is filed electronically and if nd is due, you will receive it usually seven to ten business days.service is available to all active duty

rs, their dependents and retirees and

ues to April 15. The hours of opera-e 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.ortant documents you need to bring ou, if they apply, include: W2 for allreceived; previous year state and fed-

eral income tax return; military identifica-tion for yourself and spouse; receipts forcharitable contributions; social security cardor memo from Social Security Administration for members, spouse anddependents; property tax receipts; homemortgage interest statement; power of attor-ney; student loan interest statement; divorcedecree; proof of dependent care, and educa-tional expenses; interest income statement(e.g., 1099); HUD 1 statement (if home pur-chased in IRA/TSP contribution statements

in 2007); dividend income statement (e.g.,1099DIV); and statements reflecting capitalgains/loss and educator expenses.

For more information, call Hunter at 315-3675.

ee tax filing on Stewart-Hunter

Year’s Eve Party at Rocky’sme enjoy a champagne toast, party s, entertainment in both rooms and bal-drop at midnight. The party will be held8 p.m. to 3 a.m. and there is no charge tod. Open to DoD cardholders only. Forinformation call 767-8715 or 368-2212.

Year’s Eve at Club Stewartme ring in the New Year with cham-e (first 500 people), party favors, enter-

tainment (70’s, 80’, 90’s and current music) indifferent rooms, and balloon drop at mid-night. The event is 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. at ClubStewart. The event will include a Southerncuisine dinner and breakfast option. The costis $15. For more information, call 368-2212.

Additional New Year’s FestivitesJoin in the fun at Cypress Sam’s and Marne

Lanes New Year’s Eve with affordable Family fun. For more information, call 767-4866.

Winterfest Trip slated

Do you love to ski? Take a trip with us to

Blowing Rock, N.C. from Jan. 25-27. Thecost is $200 per room plus ski lift andequipment expenses.

The maximum occupancy for a room isfour. For more information, call 767-2841.

New York City Trip slatedJoin us for a grand time in the “Big

Apple.”The trip will include a Broadway show,

tours of the city, tour of the Statue of Liberty, Ground Zero and much more.

The trip will take place from June 13-15,

but register now to reserve your space. The

cost is $849 per person. The cost includesairfare, hotel, taxes, and some food.Payment options are available and a pay-ment of $150 is due by Feb. 1.

Don’t miss out on this great trip. Formore information, call 767-2841.

Kids scavenge at Cypress Sam’sChildren are invited to come search

through 6,000 colored balls to find the“special” balls and win prizes.

The hunt will be held from 3 to 6 p.m.,Jan 9. The cost is $2 per child. For more

information, call 767-4273.

WR Briefs Cont.

Support Boy Scouts’ holiday donation drive



ason StadelCT Public Affairs

RWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq – To call Staff binna Awusah a good Soldier would be an understate-according to members of his company. His peers callgood Soldier who goes the extra mile to accomplish a

on and always places the needs of others before his own,h a smile on his face and large sense of patriotism in his

usah, a native of Nigeria, immigrated to the Unitedin 1981 to enroll in college. Awusah didn’t have a hardood growing up in the African nation, and said thatse his parents were “well off,” they were able to sendnd his brother to the U.S. for an education.usah, a generator mechanic in Company B, 26th Brigadert Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry

on, earned a bachelor’s degree in electronics from

e State University in Detroit. He settled into a civilianMaryland and became a supervisor at an electronics

any. However, Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein’s invasionwait in the summer of 1990 changed Awusah’s life.

991, Awusah was watching the news in his Marylandwhen he saw a woman crying during an interview

se she had just been called back to the Army from theve ready reserve. She was a new mom and being calledo service to deploy.usah recalled feeling so bad that he called a recruitersked if the war was so bad that moms had to be taken

away from their babies; the recruiter said it was. Awusah saidthat if the Army needed him, he would help.“That’s just how he is; he really cares for people,” said Sgt.

1st Class Robert Spears, Awusah’s squad leader.Later that afternoon Awusah was in the recruiter’s office in

Brandywine, Md.“That was the fastest I’ve seen paperwork get done in the

Army,” Awusah said. “I would have gone to basic training thatnight if I would have got my GT (general technician) examdone.”

Sixteen years later Awusah, who came to the 26th BSB inJan. 2007 and is currently on his second Operation IraqiFreedom deployment, is an advocate of what the UnitedStates and the Army can provide.

“Sergeant Awusah is the kind of guy that brightens yourday no matter what is going on,” Lt. Col. Mark Weinerth, 26thBSB commander, said.

Awusah attributes all of his gains in life to becoming an

American citizen and to joining the Army. He encourages hisSoldiers to take advantage of the programs the Army offerssuch as taking college courses.

Awusah said the Army opens up more possibilities forSoldiers. He said the military allows a Soldier to choose many career paths in the civilian world.

He is also an ally for any re-enlistment counselor. When a Soldier is thinking about leaving the Army, Awusah

makes sure they have an outlook for the future.“I encourage them to re-enlist based on their plans. If they

have a good plan for leaving the Army then I encourage that.

I try and give them examples; I let them know the Army is thekindest community you’ll have,” he said. “I make sure they know that other organizations don’t have programs like AER(Army Emergency Relief). I let them know that if you needhelp the Army is always there to help; most organizations won’t do that.”

Spears said Awusah takes a positive approach to every-thing.

“He’s always smiling and laughing,” Spears said. “The only thing that upsets him is when leaders don’t take care of Soldiers. Greed is not involved in his life. He’s caring and hehas concern for his fellow Soldiers.”

If a new Soldier arrives to the unit, Awusah will make theSoldier feel welcome.

“The best way to compliment them is to shake their handand tell them they are good American Soldiers. You need tothank them for sacrificing their youthful age for their coun-try,” Awusah said.

When it comes to Soldiering skills Awusah also sets the barhigh. At 44 years of age he can still run about 14 minutes inthe two-mile run during the Army physical fitness test.

“He’s a PT stud,” Spears said. “He definitely leads from thefront. I knew right away that he was going to be a plus for thecompany.”

In four years Awusah will be eligible for retirement but hissquad leader doesn’t think Awusah will be ready to leave theorganization that in his words has given him so much.

“He’ll probably stay in the Army until Uncle Sam puts himout,” Spears said.


Sgt. Jason Stadel

Staff Sgt. Obinna Awusah (sitting) discusses fixing a generator with one of his non-

commissioned officers, Sgt. Omar Lopez. Awusah has been a generator mechanic in the Army for 16 years.

gerian native is patriotic American, urges to stay Army

03rd BSB dons 3rd Inf. Div. combat patchCapt. Constance Quinlan4th BCT, 3rd Inf. Div.PAO

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU,Iraq- Soldiers of the 703rd Brigade SupportBattalion joined the honored ranks of Dog Face Soldiers Dec.2. The ceremony was heldone day after the 4th Brigade Combat Team,3rd Infantry Division assumed control of the Vanguard area of operation.

As a light drizzle heralded the onset of therainy season, four companies of maintainersgathered outside the Kalsu Aid Station to holdseparate combat patch ceremonies. The cere-monies were presided over by Lt. Col JohnChadbourne, commander, 703rd BSB, andCmd. Sgt. Maj. Harry Jeffries, commandsergeant major of the 703rd BSB.

Chadbourne expressed his pride for the bat-talion, assuring the Army’s newest veteransthat the occasion was well-deserved.

“[This] may not feel like combat, but youare under a constant threat, and you should

never diminish what you are doing,”Chadbourne said. “Everything you do impactsthe mission of the 4th Brigade Combat Team,3rd Infantry Division, the 3rd Infantry Divisionand the United States Army.”

Chadbourne added that each Soldiershould take pride in joining the small group of American warriors throughout history whohave stepped up and answer their nation’s callin a time of need.

After the ceremony, all the Soldiers will wearthe 3rd Inf. Div. shoulder sleeve insignia ascombat patches while deployed. Jeffriesexplained that this gesture symbolizesSoldiers’ pride in the unit with which they arecurrently serving in combat.

The 703rd BSB traces its combat roots to1942, when the then 703rd OrdnanceMaintenance Company supported the 3rdInfantry Division in World War II. Its mostrecent tour was in 2005, supporting the Vanguard Brigade in Operation Iraqi FreedomIII.

Courtesy Photo

l. John Chadbourne, commander, 703rd Brigade Support Battalion, presents Capt.Stinnie, commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, with a 3rd Infantry

n Combat Patch Dec. 2 at Forward Operating Base Kalsu.



Frontline December 13, 2007e 3rd Infantry Division

l to the Frontline

T RUCKER, Ala. – Army officials arewering Family members to take anrole in implementing safety practices tot their Families and loved ones return-me from deployments.Army recognizes that Army Families arey powerful group, capable of positively

cing how Soldiers and Family mem-think. The Army’s new Family ement Kit raises Families’ awareness of ding indicators in accidents while pass-ng the “what” and “how” of best prac-Armed with these newly created tools,members are afforded active involve-

n their Soldiers’ safety.U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety study of accident and associated statis-

ndicates when Soldiers return from ament or controlled environment, theand oversight provided by leaders isshed.ng fiscal 2007, 186 Soldiers died within

ear of returning from deployments.oximately 30 percent of the deaths

ed within the first 30 days of post-ment and 63 percent within the first six s. Of the 186 fatalities, 145 involved pri-owned vehicles during off-duty hours.

my safety officials are convinced that

oversight, control and structure are beneficialto achieve an accident-free environment. TheUSACRC’s collective challenge is to formulatetools that target safety and risk managementas a "way of life" for application when Soldiersare off duty.

“As leaders, we know that direct engage-ment with our Soldiers makes a positive differ-ence in their safety,” said Brig. Gen. Bill

Forrester, director of Army safety and com-manding general of the USACRC. “No oneknows Soldiers better than their Families andthere are few organizations better positionedthan Families to influence Soldiers to makesafer choices and take fewer risks.”

Forrester added that the USACRC believes itis extremely difficult to look a spouse or childin the eye and tell them you are not going to wear your helmet or a seat belt because youdon't care enough to stay alive for them.

“The Family Engagement Kit features toolsthat Family members can use to engage theirloved ones in best safety practices in order tohelp protect them,” said Forrester. “Many takevery little time or effort, and the payoff ishuge.”

In all, the kit includes six tools for post-deployment best practices. One such tool isthe Travel Risk Planning System, better knownas TRiPS. The aim of TRiPS is to reduce therisk of accidents when traveling by POV, the

No. 1 killer of Soldiers. Another potentially life-saving

tool included in the kit is theMotorcycle/ATV Agreement. Thistool encourages Families and theirSoldiers to discuss the hazards andsafety measures associated withriding motorcycles or all-terrainvehicles.

These web-based tools are self-explanatory, self-supporting withPowerPoint briefs containing asso-ciated talking points.

The Army’s goal is to put thesetools into the hands and empower Army Family Team Building train-ers, Family Readiness Group lead-ers, brigade-level safety profes-sionals, BOSS leaders, parents, andindividual Family members tokeep our Army team safe, Forresteradded.

Families are encouraged toembrace the Family EngagementKit as another tool supporting onecommon desire – safer Soldiers

and Families.“Family involvement is essential, so I ask forengagement with your loved one,” Forrestersaid. “With your help, we can better protectour Nation’s most precious assets – our

Soldiers.”For more information about the Family

Engagement Kit, visit the USACRC Web site athttps://crc.army.mil/familyengagement.

amily Engagement Kit puts Families, safety first

TES From Page 1A

s noted several specific improvements, including refugees returning to Iraq, more international invest-there, and 70,000 Iraqis "who have taken it uponelves to defend their neighborhoods."secretary emphasized that, while weakened, terror-

Iraq haven't been beaten, and he cited a migration of sts to other parts of the country now experiencing ank in violence. Among them is the northern city of

which he visited recently. Gates met with Multi-

al Division North and provincial reconstruction teams there to learn about their efforts to stop al-Qaidastablishing a new foothold there.y Col. Tony Thomas, Multi-national Division North's

y commander, described successes and challenges int's area of responsibility, a vast seven-province region

diverse population that makes it "a microcosm of

t diversity has made the "awakening" among the localation less dramatic than in Anbar, Thomas said. Hethe restive Diyala province and the fact that al-Qaidaives may be seeking refuge there among the biggestns in the region.s said the commanders in Mosul told him they'reg a continuing challenge," but the threat they're now appears to be far less sophisticated than in the past.

In cases where Coalition Forces once faced one or twodozen opponents at a time, they now typically face farfewer, he said.

"So the nature of the threat has changed, even though thechallenge remains," Gates said.

Gates hailed progress being made in training and equip-ping Iraq's security forces. He also lauded vigilance thesetroops are demonstrating on the battlefield. "The Iraqitroops stand and fight," he said.

Thomas shared Gates' assessment of the "real growth of the Iraqi security forces" and said the challenge now is tocontinue their development to the point where they canoperate independently, without U.S. assistance.

Gates said commanders in Mosul told him they're looking forward to the return of two Iraqi army battalions currently deployed to Baghdad as part of the troop surge there to con-front terrorism. A U.S. battalion with the 1st ArmoredDivision's Task Force Iron also has surged into Baghdad.

At no time during the discussion did commandersrequest additional U.S. troops in the region, Gates said.

In fact, he reported progress in bringing down the overalltroop number in Iraq from its current 166,000. The firstunits not to be replaced returned home in September, and1st Brigade Combat Team will begin redeploying thismonth, he said.

"And assuming that conditions remain as they are or con-tinue to improve, an additional four battalion combat teams will withdraw from Iraq by late July," he said.

Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multi-national Force Iraq, is expected to make further recommen-dations to President George Bush in the February-Marchtimeframe regarding prospects for further troop reductionsin the second half of the year.

Meanwhile, Gates urged Iraq's political leaders to take

advantage of the improved security environment to moveforward with other concerns, including reconciliation andlegislation. He cited the Maliki government's recent signing of the U.S.-Iraq Declaration of Principles for Friendship andCooperation agreement as a critical step that "sets the stagefor future U.S.-Iraqi cooperation."

That document, signed Nov. 26, provides a framework fornormalized relationships between the two countries. "Morethan ever, I believe that the goal of a secure, stable anddemocratic Iraq is within reach," Gates said.

"Much remains to be done," Gates acknowledged, butemphasized the importance of pushing forward. "We needto be patient, but we also need to be absolutely resolved inour desire to see the nascent signs of hope across Iraqexpand and flourish so all Iraqis will enjoy peace and pros-perity," he said.

dents arrived armed with questionsanged from the way deploymentsbilling to baseline settings for their

mes in the New Gannam, New nah, and New Callaway housing on Hunter and Stewart’s Liberty s, Southern Oaks and Coastal Ridgeare affected by the mock billing,began June 2007. The mock or sam-

lling period lasts for one year, withst actual bill going out to residents008.

baseline is established using twods. The first method is based on atment of Energy model. During the

billing phase the actual usage andne usage will be compared and ana-and the baselines and analyticalds are validated, according to istaAmerica. The second baseline calcu-is founded on the floor plans as wellsize and type of home. For example,

sident has a Family of six living in a

four-bedroom home, and a Family of twolive in a home with the same type of floorplan, their baseline will be approximately the same.

During the mock billing period residentsreceive a monthly statement that shows theconsumption of the electricity and gas that was used or saved compared to their base-line.

The baseline is a billing structure thatprovides customers with an allowance of energy at a lower rate. Servicemembers onHunter-Stewart are not individually responsible for water or sewer cost. Theprocess is set up to help residents track their personal usage over the period of one

year. This time frame allows Families toassess their usage and make adjustmentsaccordingly.

Some residents questioned the usage of the money that will be saved by the Army when the actual billing begins. Joel Jacobs,department project director for GMH mili-tary housing on Hunter and Stewart, said

that dollars saved through conservation will go into new home construction.

Although many residents were unsure of how the billing will benefit them, SpecialistLeroy Bartell, Company B, 603rd AviationSupport Battallion, Combat AviationBrigade, who has a Family of five, said he was paying $100-200 a month above hisBasic Allowance for Housing while renting an apartment off post. “Then I also had topay utilities,” he said. When it comes tomock billing Bartell said, “I’m planning tomake money.”

Conversely, Janine Stidley, a Family member and mother of four, believes themock billing briefing was informative, yet

feels there are still issues left to be dealt with. “I think that my baseline should behigher than the same group that I am in,because we have a Family of six, where asmy neighbor across the street has a Family of two, living in the same size and type of house,” she said.

Coleen Sawaya, military operations

director for the third party billing compa-ny, ista North America, said that the mock billing program is mandated by the Officeof the Secretary of Defense, in a nationaleffort to conserve energy.

Invoices over the $15 mark will be paidmonthly by the resident to ista, saidSawaya. Any credits to residents over $15 will be refunded monthly by ista to the res-idents’ address.

Bartell said that living on post is a conve-nient, safe and quality way of life. “Allaround it’s a better community,” he said.“Yes, those who use more electricity aregoing to lose money, but those who use lesselectricity are going to make money.”

Residents who have questions regarding mock billing can contact the Hunter GMHcommunity center office at 459-2133, orStewart’s GMH community center office at408-2460. The billing company ista North America can be reached by calling 1-800-569-3014 or by visiting their Web siteaeistaNorthAmerica.com.

CK From Page 1A

RCI From Page 1A



ara Moorecan Forces Press Service

SHINGTON - As ground forces in theroop surge in Iraq make more

ss against insurgents, Army aviationback them up with crucial mobility,al and combat support, an officer in

e of a deployed aviation brigade said

combat aviation brigade of 3rdry Division has been deployed since

n support of Multi-National Divisionr. The brigade's helicopters havemore than 65,000 hours in support of different missions, Col. Daniel Ball,gade commander, told military ana-

n a conference call from Iraq.aviation brigade has conducted

combat operations; transported groundforces; provided medical evacuation ser-vices for Coalition Forces, Iraqi forces andIraqi citizens; and conducted troop andcargo movement, Ball said.

In addition, some of the brigade's fivebattalions have transported high-ranking officers and other dignitaries, including Iraqi government officials, around thecountry.

As far as kinetic -- or traditional combat -- operations go, 3rd Inf. Div.'s aviationbrigade has been busy, Ball said. In six months, the brigade has killed 250 insur-gents, wounded 100, destroyed 164 struc-tures insurgents were hiding in, destroyed95 insurgent vehicles, and destroyed 200boats that insurgents were using as alter-nate means of getting into Baghdad, he

said.MND-C is responsible for securing the

southern belt in and around Baghdad, which had been a safe haven for al Qaeda,Sunni and Shiite insurgents, Ball noted, so

the aviation brigade has had plenty of opportunity to take the fight to the enemy.

"Across the division's battle space, airpower is killing about 70 to 75 percent of the enemy," he said.

The ground surge in Baghdad has madeit much harder for insurgents to hide out inthe local population, Ball noted, especially as citizens turn against violence. In MND-C, 30,000 concerned local citizens havestepped up to assist Coalition and Iraqisecurity forces, he said.

This positive turn in Baghdad has creat-ed more work for aviation assets, because

insurgents are being flushed out of the city and into more remote areas, Ball said.

This makes the enemy easier to detect,but also presents a challenge because avia-tion units often have to pursue terrorists

into these areas without ground support,he said.

"As we squeeze the enemy, he has lessplace to hide, but the places that he'sgoing, there are less and less people, ... andit gets me further and further away fromthe ground forces, and it becomes more of a 'disrupt operation,'" Ball said.

Heavy machine guns pose the largestthreat to helicopters in Iraq, Ball said.However, the brigade is fully equipped tocounter any threats, and the number of successful attacks against coalition heli-copters is low, he said.


Pfc. Monica K. Smith3rd CAB Public Affairs

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – A rival-ry between battalions has thepotential to allow competition toget in the way of supporting andassisting one another. However,between the tech supply sectionsof the 2nd and 4th Battalions, 3rd Aviation Regiment, rivalry hasgiven way to brotherhood.

“We are all supporting theGlobal War on Terrorism and ourmissions determine the extent of our maintenance program,” saidChief Warrant Officer OnwahCampbell, from Sunrise, Fla., techsupply officer, Company D, 4/3rd Avn. Regt. “There is no single bat-talion that maintains all the nec-essary repair parts to supporttheir various missions. We there-fore find it necessary and very important to maintain constantcommunication with each otherso that the mission will be accom-plished as long as the assets are

available in our brigade.” While unit supply sections pro-

vide each unit’s office needs, andthe aviation life-support equip-ment section supplies and main-tains flight gear for the aircraftcrews, the tech supply sectionsprovide parts for maintaining the

actual aircraft within each battal-ion.

“We deal with the aircraft; withnuts, bolts, screws, washers, any-thing that keeps the aircraft fly-ing,” said Sgt. Hendria Bailey,from Fayettville, N.C., and mem-ber of Co. D, 2/3rd Avn. Regt. “If we don’t have a part or we needsomething, we can ask around. We can ask (4/3rd Avn. Regt.) forhelp with our Black Hawks. We all work together.”

The tech supply sections areneeded as Soldiers conduct main-tenance on aircraft, come acrossproblems and begin to trou-bleshoot. The Soldiers then refer-ence a manual to determine if apart is in need of replacement. When a part needs to be replaced,the national stock number or thepart number is brought to thetech supply shop that checks theirsystem to see if they have thatpart in stock. Otherwise, they order the part or, in some cases,borrow from other units.

“If we have an (aircraft on theground), we’ll put that part on pri-ority,” said Sgt. Deonte Sanders,from Flint, Mich., and member of Co. D, 2/3rd Avn. Regt. “If we don’thave it, we’ll check the unitsaround us to see if they have it. Wedo what we have to do to get our

aircraft up and running again.”Because 2/3rd Avn. and 4/3rd

Avn. Regts. share the same typeaircraft, the spirit of support isstronger between them than withother units. However, each unitdoes its part to ensure thebrigade’s overall mission is com-pleted.

“We go through the units whohave the same aircraft as us, but we’ll share with other battalions if they don’t have a part either,”Sanders said. “For the Chinooks we’ll work with (603rd AviationSupport Battalion) … and for nutsand bolts we can ask anyone andthey can ask us.”

The work the tech supply pro-vides can be easily overlookedbecause of its unpretentious rolein aviation, said Campbell.However, the work performed by the tech supply section is invalu-able.

“If a part is not received by themaintainer in an acceptable con-dition then that part immediately

becomes non-mission worthy,”Campbell said. “On the otherhand, there are thousands of parts that are on a helicopter that were properly stored and issued,thus making the accomplishmentof tech supply as silent as thenight.”

ech supply Soldiers help maintain CAB’s aircraft

rmy air power boosts surge effectiveness in central Iraq

Pfc. Monika K. Smith

Hendria Bailey, Co. D, 2/3 Avn., pulls parts for a Chinook Dec. 4 CAB flight line, Baghdad.



Frontline December 13, 2007The 3rd Infantry Division


ROL BASE MURRAY, Iraq – The day reating 307 local residents at a coor-

ed medical engagement in Alha, U.S. Army medics were back onb again at Patrol Base Murray, treat-5-year-old girl for burns on her legs.

uha Khalid Abed was playing with herer near a pot of water being heated onectric heater when the accidentred Dec. 1, said Khalid Abed, Dhuha’s. The pot spilled onto Dhuha's legs,

ng second- and third-degree burns toighs.ed said he received aid from localrs on the ground, including creamsressings for the wounds. Seeing his

ter still in pain days later, he decidede her to PB Murray for additional

dics from the 1st Battalion, 30thry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat3rd Infantry Division, assessed the

and cleaned the wounds.ght now we are more worried aboutdary infections," said Sgt. Eric

mith, from Shreveport, La., 1/30th Inf.aid station medic.ause the burns removed the top layern from her thighs, Ironsmith saida is more susceptible to infections.rucial skin layer blocks potential dis-

help reduce the chance of infections,s scrubbed the skin, removed dead

tissue around the wound,and applied an antibioticcream to the injuries.

Despite the severity of theburns, Lt. Col. Hee-Choon S.Lee, 1/30th Inf. Regt., battal-ion surgeon, said there washope for the girl. Becausethe burn did not completely wrap around her legs oroccur near a joint, Lee, anative of Larton, Va., said arecovery was possible.

"I've seen many childrenout there with burns," hesaid. "There is quite a bit of hope for her."

Although she may receivescarring on the legs andpotentially need skin graftsas she grows, Lee said withproper care the injury can bekept at bay. Lee said it wassatisfying knowing he wasable to do something for thegirl.

Dhuha will still need addi-tional visits and follow-uptreatments, Ironsmith said.Lee provided Abed with anote allowing him to bring his daughterback to PB Murray over the next few daysand instructions on how to care for theburns at home.

"It is good to know there is someone totake care of me and my family," Abed saidupon being released with his daughter,adding he hopes local doctors and the clin-

ic being planned in his home in ArabJabour are just as helpful and nice as the American doctors.

To help the community, which currently lacks a clinic, American Soldiers are work-ing with U.S. State Department embeddedprovincial reconstruction teams to con-struct a building for use as a clinic and get

the necessary personnel to staff the facility,Lee said.

In the meantime, Lee said he and his fel-low medics will continue to help local resi-dents in need of assistance.

"I hope that the community realizes the American presence here is a good thing. Weare here to help," Lee said.

Courtesy Photo

Capt. Keri Mullens (left), brigade surgeon, 2nd BCT, begins treatment on 5-year-old Dhuha Khalid Abed's legs. Dhuha was brought to Patrol Base Murray by her father Khalid Abed (pictured on right) Dec. 4 to receive treatment for second and third degree burns she suffered while playing with her brother around a pot of boiling water.

Courtesy Photo

t. Col. Ken Peterson (left) and Command Sgt. Maj. Hai Dang, 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery Regiment commander and command sergeant major respectively, unveil a ew sign Nov. 21 to dedicate their firing range at Forward Operating Base Anaconda, north of Baghdad.The range was dedicated to Sgt. 1st Class Paul Smith, a former rd Infantry Division Soldier who earned the Medal of Honor from his heroics during Operation Iraqi Freedom I.

Hero’s name lives on at firing range

nd BCT Soldiers help burned Iraqi girl


RWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq – Talks weret Forward Operating Base Falcon Dec. 2 to discuss future

b h C li i F l d d l l I i l d

Yacoob Yousif Bekhaty.“The security situation has improved to allow us to make

progress,” Adams told Bekhaty. “The time is right, with al-Qaeda on the run.”

The brigade’s embedded provincial reconstruction team isworking as a conduit in the community enabling frequent dia

Both Adams and John Smith, team leader, ePRT, offeredadvice to Bekhaty on how to proceed.

Smith said it is important to have Iraqis like Bekhaty work-ing for the people; someone who knows the district and how it works.

“The morale of the people is high now and they are waiting

nd BCT helps Iraqi government build from the ground up




the Jingle Bell Jogkers, joggers, runners, strollers, children big and smallited to the 2007 Jingle Bell Jog, Saturday at Club Stewart.rs depart at 9 a.m. followed by the walkers ten minutes

The cost is free and participants are encouraged to wearreen or their favorite Christmas themed costume.nition will be given to the first person wearing various

mes. You can be Santa all in red with some form of whitea Christmas tree all in green with visible ornaments; a

er in brown with antlers, or an elf with red and green-shoes, ears and similar apparel. Join the fun in support

Soldiers.

a wreath for Warrior’s Walkse help support our goal to place a wreath at every treeWarrior’s Walk during the holidays at noon, Saturday atr’s Walk. To sponsor a wreath, check out the Wreaths forrs Walk Web site at www.geocities.com/wreaths4warrior-

cal Transport availableu need transportation for medical and dental appoint-from Tuttle Clinic to Fort Stewart call the Hunter TMP at65 or 320-5888. Call no later than 3 p.m. the day beforeppointment and provide your name, appointment timecation, special requirements, number of passengers,ing ages of children.

cle recycling drive slatedou would like to donate a bike that has suffered fromt, gently used, or no longer desired – don’t take it to thels! The Directorate of Public Works, environmental divi-ncourages you to help in the installation bicycle recy-rive ongoing now through Friday. Donated bikes will be

ed directly back into our community.

nteers wanted for tax centeryou enjoy working with people? Do you possess a knack rking with numbers? If your answer to these questions ishen the Stewart-Hunter Legal Assistance Office/Marnenter may have a challenging and rewarding opportunity

u.reparation for the 2007 Tax Season, the Stewart-Hunter

nters are looking for interested volunteers to staff theax centers at the installation. This opportunity can pro-

ood training and experience for future jobs. For furtheration you may contact at ACS, 767-5058.

wartp into fun with ESC Sock Hop

Fort Stewart Enlisted Spouses’ Club hosts a Sock Hop, 7

p.m., Jan. 19 at Club Stewart. The event costs $15 in advance,$20 at the door. Free child care provided at the ChildDevelopment Center for registered children. The event willhave various contests at the dance. For more information, callJonna Reed at 271-4086, Maria Eggers at 432-0323, GlendaHightower at 369-4136 or Sherry Puricelli at 492-4325.

PWOC classes, meets slatedClasses are available for children, ages three and older,

including adult Bible study and RCIA classes, 9:45 to 10:30 a.m.Sundays in the Religious Ed Building.

Call Pam Perez at 315-5440 for additional information.Protestant Women of the Chapel meets every Wednesday, 9:30to 11:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Call Valarie Moore at 920-8519.

Marne Shop hours extendedThe Shop of the Marne will be open extended hours this

month to help you with your gift giving for the holiday season.New merchandise is arriving so stop by building 25 off McNeely Road, behind the PX and check it out! For more infor-mation, call the Shop at 767-9268.

Get a wake-up callNeed a pick-me-up in the morning? Stop by the communi-

ty center for free coffee and doughnuts to start your day off right from 9:30 to 11 a.m., Dec. 21 at The Southern OaksCommunity Center.

HunterChild scholarships begins

The Defense Commissary Agency’s 2008 scholarship for mil-itary children is now accepting applications. The applicationsare available at the commissaries worldwide and at www.com-missaries.com or www.militaryscholar.org. The packets mustbe turned in to a commissary by Feb. 20 and include an essay (requirements outlined in application). The program is open tounmarried children under age 21 (23 if in school) of military active-duty, Reserve, Guard and retired personnel. For morevisit www.commissaries.com.

Come to movie afternoonHunter middle and high school youth are invited to attend a

movie the first Saturday of each month in the Post Theater

(located by ACS) to enjoy a movie, popcorn and Kool-Aid.

Hunter legal center closesThe Legal Center will close at 11 a.m., Friday for a JAG orga-

nization function.

Hunter Chapel’s Christmas Service• Advent Reconciliation Service, 6:30 p.m., Dec. 14

• CYO presents the movie “The Nativity,” 1 p.m., Dec. 16• Protestant Candlelight Service, 7 p.m., Dec. 24• Christmas Day Mass, 11:45 a.m., Dec. 25

Hunter vehicle registration movedEffective Dec. 3, VRO relocated to Wilson Gate. Hours are 7

a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Fort Stewart /Hunter Army Airfield Briefs

StewartCome to Family Movie Night

It’s show time! Join GMH for a fun Family night with agood movie, popcorn and drinks 6 to 8 p.m., Dec. 28 at theGMH leasing office. For your viewing pleasure“Transformers” will be our featured film. It has a rating of PG-13.

Join Neighborhood HuddlesBe an active part of your community by attending your

huddle and sharing ideas, issues or concerns with GMH,10:30 to 11 a.m., Friday for Marne Homes, Dec. 17 forMarne Woods, and Dec. 20 for Bryan Village North. Dueto the cooler weather, all huddles will be held indoors atthe Southern Oaks Community Center. Help make your

neighborhood a great place to live!

HunterJoin Neighborhood Huddles

Be an active part of your community by attending yourhuddle and sharing ideas, issues or concerns with GMH,10:30 to 11 a.m., Dec. 18 at New Callaway. New Gannam’shuddles will be in January.

oking for employment?pportunities for permanent

loyment are available in non-ropriated funds - Morale,lfare, and Recreation jobs at

Stewart and Hunter Army eld.

nagement jobs availablehe following are positions withuent vacancies. Applicationsaccepted on a continuous

s.Child and Youth Servicesctional Technology Specialist,-time, $25.35 - $32.96 per hour,es Dec. 12

Child and Youth Servicesssistant Director, full-time,000-$37,000 per annum, closes

12

•Administrative Assistant, full-time, $25,795 - $29,239 per annum,closes Dec 12, 2007

•Child and Youth program assis-tant, $10.09-$12.36 per hour

•Recreation Aid, $5.85 - $7 per-hour

•Operations Assistant, $5.85-$8per-hour•Cook , $8.70 per-hour•Hotel desk clerk , $7-$7.50 per-

hour•Cashier, $8 per-hour•Custodial worker, $7.72 per-

hour•Waiter (Trainee), $7.17 - $8.17

Per-hour•Food Service Worker, $7.17 Per-

hourTo search for these types of posi-

tions go to cpol.army.mil. click onEmployment, click on Search forJobs, at the bottom of the pageunder Search-Announcement typein SCNAFDW% then click on “Get Announcement” or hit the enter

key. This will narrow your search to

the Stewart-Hunter NAF vacancies.Instructions on how to apply are

on each announcement. Additional NAF vacancy announcements currently postedon the CPOL Web site:

Tax AssistantsThe Fort Stewart and Hunter

Army Airfield tax centers have sev-eral Temporary Hire positions forTax Assistance Coordinator and Tax Preparer for the 2007 Income Tax Season.

These positions can be foundonline at USAJOBS.com or CPOL Web site. Interested personnelshould submit their applicationelectronically via the applicable website.

Fitness Center AssistantsExperienced individuals needed

to independently carry out a phys-ical fitness program at Stewart-Hunter gymnasiums. Certification

as a fitness or Personal Trainer is a

must. The positions start at $12 perhour. For more information, callthe NAF division at 767-5051.

Did you know?• You don’t have to be a U.S.

Citizen to be employed by NAF.• Hiring preference for eligible

military spouses can be used mul-tiple times for employment in“flexible” status positions.

You do not lose eligibility until you are placed in a regular full orpart-time position (NAF or Appropriated Funds).

• There is a hiring preference inNAF for involuntarily separatedmilitary members and their eligibleFamily members.

• Current NAF employees whohave worked one continuous yearin a position without time limitsare eligible to be considered forCivil Service (GS/WG) jobs thesame as APF employees who trans-fer to Army.

• Youth at least 16 years of age

can be employed year round in cer-

tain NAF positions where condi-tions and duties meet all criteria of Federal and state child labor laws.

• NAF offers a ManagementTrainee Program that is targeted toannually hire up to 20 recent col-lege graduates who have bachelor’s

degrees in certain MWR special-ties. Applications are accepted on acontinuing basis and will be usedto fill Management TraineeProgram vacancies as necessary.

Go to www.armymwr.biz andclick on Programs for more infor-mation.

• Eligible employees who movebetween DOD NAF and APF posi-tions can “port” certain benefitssuch as retirement, leave, etc.

Need resume help?Contact ACS employment readi-

ness at 767-1297. For further infor-mation on employment opportu-nities contact the CivilianPersonnel Advisory Center, job

information center at 767-5051.



Frontline December 13, 2007The 3rd Infantry Division

ge term dates announced

ollment is starting for the next college term. Please con-e college directly for course schedules and enrollment

mation. Central Texas College – The next term runs Jan. 7gh March 1. For more information at Stewart, call 767-315-4090 at Hunter. Columbia College – The next term

14 to March 8. For more information at Stewart, call336 or 352-8635 at Hunter; Embry Riddle – The nexts Jan. 14 to March 8. For more information at Stewart,

67-3930, or 352-5252 at Hunter; Savanna h Tech – theerm is Jan. 4 to March 6. For more information, call 408-Webster University – The next term is Jan. 7 to March 6.ore information, call 767-5357 at Stewart, or 354-0033 atr.

or Purple Heart Scholarship opportunitiesrn about scholarship opportunities for Purple Heartents, visit www.purpleheart.org or scholarship@purple-org.

n about available federal scholarshipsrn about the Federal Employee Education andance Fund Scholarship at www.feea.org/scholarshipsor call 1-303-933-7580.

ster offers deployed reduced online tuitiondiers enrolled in Webster’s graduate classes will receive aed rate, while deployed. Contact Marsha Sands [email protected], or 354-0033, DSN: 315-5906 for addition-rmation.

y for the Georgia HOPE grantHOPE Grant is money given by the state of Georgia to

nts with financial need to attend vocational/tradels. The grant covers certificate and diploma programs.

oldier or Family member of a Soldier who is stationed inia may be eligible. If you are interested in attending aia vocational or trade school, inquire with your school'sial advisor or visit the Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith Army tion Center to speak with a counselor.

E Grant - great opportunity for spousescate while you wait! Get your certificate or diploma and

e your new career during this deployment. Certificatesb site technician, child care manager, and medical tran-on are a few of the eligible programs offered by

nah Technical College. Classes are available in the Sgt.ass Paul R. Smith Army Education Center and at they Campus on Airport Road in Hinesville. For more

mation, call Savannah Tech in the Sgt. 1st Class Paul R.

Smith Army Education Center at 408-2430, or the Liberty

Campus at 408-3024.

Take CLEP and DANTES examsCollege Level Examination Program and DANTES Subject

Standardized Tests are available on post. Call ColumbiaCollege at 877-3406 for more information and testing dates.The exams are free for military personnel and for non-military examinees, CLEP tests are $85 and DSSTs are $90.

Free English-as-a-second-language coursesBeginning courses are offered 9 a.m. to noon, Tuesday and

Thursday. Intermediate courses are offered 8 a.m. to noonMonday and Wednesday. ESL class registration begins atnoon every Tuesday, at the Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith Army Education Center, building 100, room 227. For more informa-tion call 368-7322.

Take GED and skills enrichment coursesGraduation Equivalency Diploma and adult education

classes are offered in partnership with the Liberty County Adult Education Program at the Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith Army Education Center. The courses prepare you to take theGED Exam or refresh your skills. The courses are free of charge. You can select from one of a number of dates andtimes, which are 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday; or 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday inrooms 225 - 228. For more information, call 368-7322. To reg-ister for the classes, you must be present for both days of theprocess. Registration is first come, first serve. Active duty mil-itary are registered upon request. Call 368-7322 for completedetails.

Green-to-Gold briefing slatedThe Green-to-Gold briefings are held at the installation

education centers every month. On Stewart the briefings are2 p.m., the first and third Thursday. The Hunter briefings are2 p.m., the second and fourth Thursday of each month.

Children’s scholarship handbook offeredThe Military Children’s Scholarship Handbook, “Getting

Uncle Sam to Pay for Your College Degree”, is available at www.militaryhandbooks.com.

Learning center provides computer resourcesThe Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith Education Center’s learning

center has 55 computers with Internet access available. Youcan use the center to complete your homework, research for your classes, access the Army’s basic skills automated pro-gram, “Lifetime Library” or just stop in to check your e-mail.

The center is open seven days a week. It is closed on feder-

al holidays. The learning center is room 230, building 100.The hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday – Thursday; 8 a.m. to9 p.m., Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday; and noon to 6 p.m.,Sunday. The Hunter learning center is open 7:30 a.m. to 8:30p.m., Monday-Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday; and noon to6 p.m., Sunday. Take advantage of a variety of study resourcesand Internet capability. For more information, call 315-6130.

Troops-, Spouse-to-Teachers briefings slatedThe Georgia Troops-to-Teachers Program provides federal

funding to qualified servicemembers of up to $10,000 forbecoming public school teachers. Under the Spouse-to-Teachers Program, eligible military spouses may be reim-bursed for the cost of state required certification tests up to atotal of $600. Future meetings are scheduled for Dec. 19 at theSgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith Education Center. For more infor-mation, visit online at www.tttga.net and www.sttga.net or call1-800-745-0709 or 767-8331.

Free college course offeredColumbia College Spouse’s Opportunity Scholarship pro-

vides a tuition waiver for an initial classroom course withColumbia College at the Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith Army Education Center for spouses of military personnel enrolledin their school. This is a value of $450, which is the cost of theirthree credit-hour classroom courses.

The program is an incentive for eligible students to embark on a degree program, while completing the financial aidprocess. Call 877-3406 at Stewart or 352-8635 at Hunter formore information.

$4500 tuition available for Soldiers All active duty members have $4500 per fiscal year for edu-

cation. This entitlement is separate from the Montgomery GIBill benefits available from the Veteran’s Administration.

Details are available at 1:30 p.m., Monday – Friday, during aone-hour brief at the Education Center, room 223.

Savannah Tech offers child careChild care is available at the Airport Road Hinesville cam-

pus. Contact Natasha Brown at 408-3024 ext 6026 for moredetails.

CTC adds degree programsTwo new associate degrees will be introduced: Information

Technology A.A.S and Legal Assistant/Paralegal A.A.S. Also,courses leading to certificate for Information Center Specialistare being offered. Go to www.ctcd.edu for course descrip-tions. For more information, call 767-2070 or 315-4090.

Kurt GurkaAssistance Office

Judge, I am going to be getting a rge refund this year and need to

my taxes done. I prefer not to do myself. What are my options? h year the IRS allows taxpayers to filereturns using traditional paper filing ectronic filing. Electronic filing

des returns prepared by commercialare and providers, as well as returnsred through Volunteer Income Tax ance (VITA) Centers, like the Marne

enter. Most paper returns are self-red.

So why would anyone file a paper eturn? od point. That will require the taxpay-do a cost/benefit analysis. The mostcant cost of filing paper returns is theonal processing time required.ver, paper returns offer one distinctt f th i th i

returns at no cost, while those with AGIover $54,000 will have only one option forno cost preparation.

Q : What is my first option?

Those with AGI less than $54,000may use Free File. Free File is afree federal income tax preparation and elec-tronic filing programfor eligible taxpay-ers, developedthrough a partner-

ship between theInternal RevenueService and theFree File AllianceLLC, a group of private sector tax software compa-nies. You shouldbear in mind threethings when using FreeFil

Families. During deployments, units suchas the 3rd Infantry Division may also main-tain VITA sites in conjunction with DivisionHeadquarters. Currently there are plansfor a VITA site at Division Headquarters inIraq. VITA sites utilize software prepared

for the IRS that allows for the elec-tronic filing of your return.

VITA sites can preparemost returns, but not

all. For instance,those with signifi-

cant business orrental income

may not be eli-gible for assis-tance.

Q : Well, if I end up

preparing my own taxes, how

do I know which form(s) to use? Or,

if t fil d

Q : Great, more paperwork. I don’t have to save these forms, do I?

Yes. Whether you file paper or electronicreturns, you should always receive a hardcopy of the return. At a minimum, youshould keep your last three years worth of tax returns. In fact, it is recommended that you keep your tax returns for the last seven years.

Q : Alright, I’ve kept my forms and they look correct, but the IRS says I owe

them money. What can I do? The IRS has established the Taxpayer

Advocate Service as an independent orga-nization within the IRS to assist taxpayershaving problems. You may be eligible forassistance if you are experiencing econom-ic harm or significant costs, have experi-enced a delay of more than 30 days toresolve your tax issue, or have not receiveda response or resolution to the problem by the date promised by the IRS. This serviceis offered free of charge and is entirely con-fid ti l

Ask the Judge: Your tax filing options



ngel D. MartinezMobile Public Affairs Detachment

HDAD – Adhamiyah, a northeastern district of the Iraqi, was once a violent hotspot where residents were afraido the store. However, with the help of concerned citizenslunteers, Iraqis have once again begun to fill the market

en we first got here and rode around in the evenings ite a ghost town,” said Sgt 1st Class Steven Pizzino, pla-

Not long ago there was a security issue concerning localmerchants. Local thugs and terrorists were taking advantage of small markets and extorting shop owners, collecting a “fee” inorder for them to keep their businesses open, said Pizzino.

In addition to the extortion, locals were afraid to go shop-ping in the streets due to random attacks by terrorists.

The security issue has been gradually improving thanks to a joint effort by the Iraqi army, the local Iraqi security volunteersand the troopers from 3/7 Cav., who have been a constantpresence in the streets of Adhamiyah.

for Troop A, 3/7 Cav. It is not just a boost of the economy of Adhamiyah. The picture of people shopping in the streets willgive residents a feeling of security, passing that feeling along toothers, said Hoover.

The fact that abandoned houses are being reoccupied by people who moved out of town because of the violence is a signof life flourishing in Adhamiyah, said Pizzino.

Pizzino gives all the credit for the town’s success to its peo-ple. “If it keeps going the way it’s going now, it’ll be like it’s atotally different city,” said Pizzino. “Six months from now there


en HuttoBCT Public Affairs

WARD OPERATING BASE HAM-raq – The students of a girls’ schoolrwan now have fresh water to enjoy

en lessons.cal contractor completed a well pro-the school, funded by the 3rd Heavy e Combat Team, 3rd Infantry

on Dec. 6, 45 days after breaking d on the project.

ribbon-cutting ceremony wased by Lt. Gen. Abud, the comman-

the Baghdad Operations Center,en. Abdul Kareem, the commanderst National Police Division, and sev-

aders from the 3rd Inf. Div.s project will directly impact thestudents who attend the threes at this site,” said 1st Lt. Chris

er, a team leader in the 489th CivilBattalion, currently attached to the

Battalion, 10th Field Artillery ent. “We have been trying to com-his project since this summer. Theved security situation here finally this project reality. There was noion on the contractor’s part to come

nd work.”rs will be used to convert the well

water, which is extremely salty, into drink-ing water and also allow it to be used forsanitation purposes.

“I think the project will be received real-

ly well by the people here,” said Sgt. 1stClass Theodore Brock, the noncommis-sioned officer in charge of the 1/10th FA’scivil-military operations section. “Thecontractor put a lot of work into it, using local workers. He went all out to make sureeverything was correct. We are planning todo two similar projects at two otherschools in the area and we hope they go as well.”

The contractor told Brock that eventhough the job is completed, he will con-tinue to monitor the system to ensure thatit is working properly.

Capt. Josh Beard, from Opelika, Ala., thecivil-military operations officer for the1/10th FA, explained that the Nahrwan city

council brought this project to the 3rdHBCT’s attention.“We are starting to see the Narhwan

Nahia Government take on more projectslike this one,” Beard said. “We are seeing projects develop that we do not initiate.The improved security here is the mainreason for that. The people here are con-centrating on their quality of life ratherthan their security. It’s encouraging.”

Spc. Ben Hutto

Capt. Josh Beard, the civil-military operations officer for 1/10 FA, greets one of the workers that helped set up the well and filtration system at a girls’ school in Narhwan Dec. 6.

Natalie RostekBCT Public Affairs

RWARD OPERATING BASE HAM-I ra q – Soldiers of the 3rd Heavy

de Combat team stood in line Dec. 1

awaiting the opening of the new PostExchange at FOB Hammer.

The doors were decorated with balloonsand streamers. A colorful cake andsparkling grape juice sat on a table next tothe ribbon which was stretched across the

threshold. Managers and sales associatesof the Army and Air Force Exchange Servicelined the doors awaiting the final moment when the ribbon would be cut and the firstpatrons shopped in their st ore.

AAFES of Baghdad General ManagerPaula Gunderson spokefirst, thanking everyone who was involved in making the grand opening possible.

“We couldn’t have donethis without the help of Lt.Col. Kelly Lawler, 1st Lt.John Enfinger, the wonder-ful AAFES staff, theExpeditionary Red HorseSquadron (Air Force engi-neers), and everyone who was involved in making thisPX possible,” she said.

Third HBCT CommanderCol. Wayne W. Grigsby, Jr.,from Prince George’sCounty, Md., said he wasamazed at how FOBHammer has changed sincethe brigade first arrived to

the FOB early March. April 13, FOB Hammer

celebrated the grand opening of its first PX:two single-wide trailers setting end to end.Soldiers would enter one end of the firsttrailer, make their way down the isle, andpick up items on the way to the checkoutcounter at the opposite end.

“A PX like this builds combat power,”Grigsby said. “Soldiers can come off of amission and have some normalcy. They can come here, get what they need and go

back to their tents to rest and relax. Thenthey are ready for another combat patrol.Sledgehammer Soldiers deserve this. They deserve the best for what they have done.”

After the ribbon was cut, Soldiers (20-at-a-time) piled into the now-open doors.

“I’m very excited about this new PX,”said Spc. Josh Mims, from Cleveland, Ohio,Battery A, 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery.“The old PX trailer barely held anything. It was small. This place has a lot more sup-plies. If I need something, I’m pretty sure Ican find it here.”

The new PX is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.seven days a week.

The 3rd HBCT, 3rd Infantry Division,from Fort Benning, Ga., has been deployed

in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom V since March.

Sgt. Natalie Rostek

Third HBCT’s Commander Col. Wayne W. Grigsby, Jr., AAFES of Baghdad general manager Paula Gunderson, Lt. Col. Kelly Lawler, commander of the 203rd BSB, and 3rd HBCT Command Sgt. Maj. James M.Pearson, cut the ribbon officially opening FOB Hammer’s new PX.

onstant security helps Adhamiyah markets grow

ew well provides children drinking water

AAFES opens new PX on FOB Hammer

Documents

US Army: frontlineonline12-13-07news