The Ivy Leaf, volume 1, issue 7

United States Division - North

Established in 1917 to honor those who serveVolume 1, Issue 7 December 17, 2010

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE WAR-HORSE, Iraq – Soldiers from 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, “Warriors,” 25th In-fantry Division, deployed to U.S. Division-North, transitioned from combat operations to an advisory role Sept. 1, 2010.

The conclusion of Operation Iraqi Free-dom ushered in the beginning of Operation New Dawn, a new era for Iraq in terms of security, governance and its position as a strategic U.S. partner.

Col. Malcolm Frost, brigade com-mander, 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div., reflected on the progress Iraq has made in the 100 days since the beginning of Operation New Dawn.

“Iraqi Army and Police forces continue to gain in confidence and capability, while enemy influence and impact diminishes,” he said. “Local and provincial governments continue to develop and hone effective po-litical and economic systems to support the people.”

Despite the name-change for operations in Iraq, the primary objectives of U.S. forc-es remain the same: return Iraq to a state of sovereignty capable of providing security and stability for the people of Iraq.

The change to U.S. forces’ role in Iraq is in the primary methods of accomplishing

their goals.Since the beginning of OND, Warrior

Brigade Soldiers participated in missions across northern Iraq in a supporting role for Iraqi Army, Iraqi Police and Kurdish Pesh-merga .

Iraqi Security Forces constitute the driv-ing force for all missions since OND kicked off Sept. 1, 2010; from the planning stages before an operation through the after action report conducted upon returning.

“Crime and insurgent attack rates are at eight-year lows and continue to trend down-ward as the police develop crime scene management and forensic capabilities, and sharpen their means to conduct counter-terror operations,” Frost said. “Nearly all of this is done routinely each day by the Iraqis with only minor U.S. assistance.”

In order to adequately prepare the ISF to assume complete responsibility for se-curity in their provinces, Warrior Brigade

Soldiers conducted ex-tensive training with IPs and IA soldiers. The 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, “Gimlets,” 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div., con-ducted 68 partnered training events with IA and IP in the Diyala province, focusing on infantry maneuvers at the platoon, squad and fire team levels. Throughout the month of October and into November, Gimlet Sol-diers provided training to IA soldiers on infan-try tactics in a densely vegetated environment. This training came at the request of senior ranking IA officers in response to an incident

in September in which IA soldiers, accus-tomed to urban operations, were attacked by violent extremists in a palm grove.

In addition, Gimlet Soldiers trained their Iraqi counterparts on battlefield first responder tactics, allowing the IA and IP to administer immediate medical treatment when necessary.

“During our first 100 days, the Gimlets rapidly adjusted to the unique demands of stability operations in the Diyala prov-ince,” said Lt. Col. Robert Molinari, bat-talion commander, 1st Bn., 21st Inf. Regt., 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div. “The Soldiers successfully supported numerous Stabil-ity Transition Teams while simultaneously partnering with Iraqi Army and Police units to improve efforts through training the Iraqi Commando Battalion. Successful comple-tion of civil capacity commitments to the

Second Lt. Lowell Garthwaite, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, discusses how the new reverse osmosis water filtration system will benefit the local community with an Iraqi police officer during an opening ceremony in Tikrit, Iraq, November, 14. 1st Bn., 27th Inf. Reg. worked with the local Iraqi governments in the Al Na’ Amah area to establish the water filtration system that will provide more than 18,000 liters of clean, potable drinking water daily.

First 100 days of Operation New Dawn: challenges met with successSpc. Robert England2nd AAB Public Affairs, 25th Inf. Div. U.S. Division-North

U.S. Army Photo by Spc. David Strayer, 109th MPAD, USD-N

See OPERATION NEW DAWN, pg. 4

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The Ivy Leaf December 17, 2010

Sgt. Yeli Buonya, an infantry team leader and M1127 Stryker Reconnaissance Vehicle commander, from Greensboro, N.C., assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division earned recognition as the “Ironhorse Strong Soldier” for the week of Dec. 11 due to his outstanding attitude and profes-sional work ethic.

“Sgt. Buonya never takes short cuts,” said Capt. Chris Defiori, commander of Company B, 1st Bn., 27th Inf. Regt., 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div. “He consistently steps up and does the right thing.”

Defiori said Buonya maintains a high level of mission readiness through demanding physical and combat-focused training for his Soldiers.

During his first four months in Iraq, Buonya trained his platoon in vehicle maintenance, Stryker gunnery, and basic infantry skills.

In addition to his assigned tasks and duties, Defiori said Buonya spends his free time insur-ing all seven of his platoon’s vehicles are in a state of constant readiness.

“Sgt. Buonya is an excellent example of a highly motivated and extremely competent non-commissioned officer and part of the backbone of the Wolfhound Battalion and United States Army,” said Defiori.

THE Ivy LeafThe Ivy Leaf is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. Army. Contents of The Ivy Leaf are not necessarily official views of, or endorsed by the U.S. Government, Department of the Army or the 4th Infantry Division. The appearance of advertising in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. All editorial content of The Ivy Leaf is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the United States Division-North Public Affairs Office.

Do you have a story to share? The Ivy Leaf welcomes submissions from readers. Send to the USD-N PAO at [email protected]. The Ivy Leaf reserves the right to edit submissions selected for the paper. For further information on deadlines, questions or comments, email USD-N PAO or call DSN 318-849-0089.

Commanding General – Maj. Gen. David G. PerkinsCommand Sergeant Major – Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey

TF Ironhorse PAO – Lt. Col. Steve WollmanTF Ironhorse PA NCOIC – Master Sgt. Carmen Daugherty-Glaze

The Ivy Leaf Editor – Spc. Andrew IngramThe Ivy Leaf Layout & Design – Spc. Thomas Bixler

2nd Advise and Assist Brigade

25th Infantry Division

1st Advise and Assist Task Force

1st Infantry Division

4th Advise and Assist Brigade

1st Cavalry Division

Task Force Ironhorse

Task Force Ironhorse Public Affairs

Page 3 Page 5 Page 6 Page 8

IRONHORSE 9: Happy Holi-days to the troops, families

and friends of USD-N

‘Ironhorse Strong Soldiers’ recognized for excellence

IA and Kurdish Security Forces learn dismounted

movement techniques

‘Writing the final chapter on the conflict in Iraq’

Sgt. Yeli Buonya, an infantry team leader and M1127 Stryker Reconnais-sance Vehicle commander, from Greensboro, N.C., assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, is the “Ironhorse Strong Soldier” for the week of Dec. 11. Capt. Chris Defiori, commander, Company B, said Buonya’s resourceful-ness and work ethic make him an excellent example for his Soldiers and peers.

U.S. Army photo

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The 4th Infantry Division and U.S. Di-vision-North Commanding General Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins and I want to wish all the Soldiers, service members, Families, civilians and community members of our great team a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We are wishing everyone a safe and blessed Holiday Season from all of the men and women forward deployed in de-fense of freedom and support of our great nation.

Thousands of Soldiers from our home stations at Fort Riley, Kan.; Fort Hood, Texas; Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; and Fort Carson, Colo., are deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, equating to a lot of Fami-lies separated from their loved ones during this time of year.

It is important to the welfare of our troops to know that their loved ones are well thought of, and cared for physically, spiritually and mentally. The welfare of our Soldiers remains a top priority for this com-mand. We are committed to giving our very best to ensure that our men and women in uniform are cared for during this holiday season and throughout this deployment.

Despite the separation from Family, friends and loved ones, the service mem-

bers of U.S. Division-North experienced a very good Thanksgiving this year. Our leaders worked selflessly to ensure the troops deployed in support of Operation New Dawn enjoyed a touch of home filled with the camaraderie and spirit of the holi-day.

The commanding general and I spent Thanksgiving Day, as we will for Christ-mas and New Year’s, visiting the Soldiers and leaders, who are working day and night to accomplish this critical mission as U.S. forces fulfills its responsibilities to the peo-ple of Iraq.

We also visited the Soldiers of the mighty 3rd Advise and Assist Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., serving in southern Iraq as part of U.S. Division-South. They are doing a great job of continuing the mission and are enthusiastic about returning home early next year having completed their 12-month tour.

I recently spoke to leaders of Fort Carson’s 43rd Sustainment Brigade, and the “Ivy” Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team, who assured me they will go above and beyond to ensure that our Soldiers are taken care of this Holiday Season.

Our Soldiers of “Raider” Brigade, de-ployed to Afghanistan in support of Opera-tion Enduring Freedom, can look forward to United Service Organizations distribut-

ing televisions, gifts and cheer to contingency oper-ating posts in the outlying areas of Afghanistan, where conditions are often sparse and the mission dangerous.

Spirits are good for the troops here in Iraq. Our ser-vice members throughout theater have access to a vast array of resources to stay connected with their Fami-lies, friends and loved ones during this holiday season and throughout their de-ployment.

Troops have options to purchase their own inter-net service and use the free services provided by our Morale, Welfare and Recre-ation centers. There are low

cost telephone services and free Defense Switched Network phones, and our bat-talions, brigades and division headquarters will conduct Video Tele-Conferencing calls with home stations, providing troops and Families an opportunity to connect during this time apart.

Our commanders remain committed to informing our Family, friends and local communities of the hard work, sacrifices and successes of our troops’ ongoing mis-sion.

U.S. Division-North employs a wide array of assets to communicate this prog-ress, such as the 4th Inf. Div.’s official newsletter, “The Ivy Leaf,” published for our service members deployed to Iraq and their Family members back home. We also employ a variety of social media networks, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flicker and U.S. Division-North Web site, to stay plugged into what our Soldiers and Families accomplish with honor and pride.

I ask that everyone participate in these social networks and use these resources to gain information and connect with Soldiers, Families and friends at home and abroad. They are an excellent source of information highlighting the day-to-day operations our troops accomplish here.

To our Soldiers, civilians and commu-nity members at Fort Carson and the sur-rounding areas, Maj. Gen. Perkins and I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Your hard work and dedication has truly made this organization stronger. Our Soldiers are prepared for their mission because of the hard work, dedication and contributions made prior to our deploy-ment.

It is important for Family, friends and our local community to connect with our Soldiers and service members deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Our troops truly miss each and every one of you back home, and we hope that you have a wonderful holiday.

We wish we could be with you during this Holiday Season, and we will remain with you in spirit as our men and women of the mighty 4th Inf. Div. continue to serve proudly for you in northern and southern Iraq and Afghanistan. Take care and God Bless. STEADFAST AND LOYAL! Ironhorse 9

IRONHORSE 9: Happy Holidays to the troops, Families and friends of USD-N

Photo by Master Sgt. Carmen Daugherty-Glaze, USD-N PAOU.S. Division-North Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey and Commanding General Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, serve Thanksgiving Day dinner to Soldiers of Troop B, 6th Squad-ron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, at Joint Security Station Heider Nov. 25. Pfc. Matthew Striplain, center, and Pfc. Joseph Zatko, right, cavalry scouts assigned to Troop B, are attached to the 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division in support of Operation New Dawn.

Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. DaileyUSD-N Command Sergeant Major

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local population resulted in continuing the momentum of U.S. efforts in Diyala and maintaining our strategic partnership with the Iraqi people and leaders.”

“Wolfhound” Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div., responsible for assisting ISF in the Salah ad Din province, have noted that the ISF in Salah ad Din are independently conducting more than 80 percent of opera-tions against violent extremists, clearly in-dicating a shift from operations led by U.S. forces throughout the majority of the OIF campaign.

“The Iraqi Security Forces have made tremendous progress during that time from what I’ve seen,” said Lt. Col. Donald Brown, battalion commander, 1st Bn., 27th Inf. Regt., 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div., noting changes he has witnessed from previous de-ployments during 2005-2007. “It’s putting the mechanics in place for the various Iraqi Security Forces and the intelligence agen-cies to synchronize their efforts and share that intelligence in a transparent manner. The Iraqi Security Forces are strong enough and competent enough that they see them-selves as capable of taking this fight to al-Qaida.”

“On Time” Soldiers of 2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div., provided their IA counter-parts with intelligence support for unilateral missions, empowering ISF to lead security operations resulting in the capture of mul-tiple extremist leaders and criminals. In ad-

dition to a heightened aggressiveness by IA soldiers toward violent extremist groups, the operations correlated with a decrease in in-surgent activity in the area.

“The ISF’s ability to execute counter-terrorism operations has been a pleasant sur-prise,” said Maj. John Herrman, operations officer, Task Force 2-11. “Through the ISF’s actions, they are able to project a message to the Iraqi populace of security and stability

that will endure well into the future.”

Another indication of change in Iraq can be found in the Kurd-Arab relationship in the Diyala province. Soldiers of 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, “Strykehorse,” 2nd AAB, continue to work with Iraqi Army and Kurdish Re-gional Guard soldiers at check-points across the province. The collaborative tripartite effort focus on inspecting vehicles for weapons and materials used to make explosive devic-es in order to deny insurgents the means to stage attacks.

“Over the past three months we’ve seen the Iraqi Army Bri-gade and the Peshmerga Bri-gade in the Diyala Combined

Security Area work closely together, im-proving their capacity for planning and con-ducting combined operations,” said Lt. Col. James Isenhower, III, squadron commander, 2nd Sqdn.,14th Cav. Regt., 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div. “Kurds and Arabs are working hand-in-hand to continue the marked im-provements in security in northern Diyala. Often, they conduct operations without U.S. forces present, another clear indicator of their cooperation and combined ownership of security obligations in this region.”

The security increases enable U.S. Di-vision-North’s Provincial Reconstruction Teams to coordinate with local Iraqi govern-ment officials to establish long-term goals and determine areas of Iraqi infrastructure requiring immediate action.

The PRTs issued a series of microgrants, breathing new life into local economies by funding the rebuilding of shops within mar-ketplaces and giving local shoppers and shop owners a renovated bank for added commerce stability.

“Recently the provincial councils have started to execute their own budgets and forecast projects to help their own people,” said Lt. Col. Eric Schourek, the Task Force Stability officer in charge, 2nd AAB. “Spe-cifically, the Provincial Director Generals

Spc. Sara Lenzo, a Waterbury, Conn.-native, and combat medic with Company C, Task Force 2-25 Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, U.S. Division-North, advises an Iraqi Army medic on how to locate a fracture during an advanced medical course for IA medics at Forward Operating Base Warhorse, Diyala province, Iraq Oct. 4, 2010. The course was created to address IA needs for advanced trauma care.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Robert England, 2nd AAB PAO, 25th Inf. Div., USD-N

Continued from OPERATION NEW DAWN, pg. 1

See OND, pg. 7

1st Lt. Andrew Schmidt (far right), a platoon leader as-signed to 66th Engineer Company, attached to 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, U.S. Division- North, supervises a briefing conducted by Iraqi Army en-gineers prior to a route clearance mission Nov. 4 in the Diyala province, Iraq. The mission was the culmination of a month-long training course provided by the 66th Eng. Company to strengthen the IA engineers’ route clearance skills.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Robert England, 2nd AAB PAO

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CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq – Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, commanding general, 4th Infan-try Division and U.S. Division-North, and senior enlisted leader Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey, recognized four “Iron-horse Strong Soldiers” during a ceremony at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, Dec. 10.

“We have almost 10,000 service mem-bers in U.S. Division-North spread over an area in excess of 80,000 miles,” said Per-kins. “These four individuals are the cream of the crop. They set the example of how to be Soldiers, and it is a privilege to honor them today.”

Dailey explained the Ironhorse Strong Soldier of the Week is not an award but an avenue to recognize Soldiers dedicated to exceeding the standards to accomplish the mission.

Perkins and Dailey selected the four

Ironhorse Strong Soldiers from weekly submissions made by the brigades cur-rently deployed to U.S. Division-North in support of Operation New Dawn.

“There is no set criteria for the Iron-horse Strong Soldier of the Week,” said Dailey. “A Soldier’s chain of command can recommend anything they feel that Soldier is doing above and beyond the call of duty or going outside their normal duties in or-der to further Soldiers or the mission.”

Sgt. Kristopher Koppelman, a Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.-native, assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regt., 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, was deemed Ironhorse Strong for his leadership skills and dedica-tion to his Soldiers as a rifle squad leader.

In addition to being recognized as the Ironhorse Strong Soldier of the Week, Dec. 5, Koppelman was also battlefield pro-moted by his command to the rank of staff sergeant for his outstanding performance in his duties as a noncommissioned officer.

“Being honored like this is great,” he

said. “I’m on a small 23 man patrol base, and things like this don’t usually come around to us.”

Spc. Brian Thacker, a Coal Grove, Ohio-native and cavalry scout with Troop C, 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Inf. Div., worked through the night after returning to his patrol base, Nov. 15, to repair a mal-functioning computer system in his M1127 Stryker Reconnaissance Vehicle, ensuring that the unit’s vehicle was operational be-fore the next day’s mission.

“I was trained by my NCOs to take care of my vehicle and equipment before I think about myself,” Thacker said. “It was just the right thing to do.”

Staff Sgt. Eric Galindo, battle noncom-missioned officer, Headquarters and Head-quarters Troop, Task Force Saber, 1st Com-bat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, played a critical role in the identification and defeat of Improvised Explosive De-vices Nov. 14.

Spc. Samalaula Etelagi, an information systems operator from American Samoa, assigned to Company C, Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, played an instrumental role in implement-ing the Task Force Ironhorse Secret Inter-net Protocol Router portal as 4th Inf. Div. assumed its mission in northern Iraq.

Each Ironhorse Strong Soldier re-ceived a Task Force Ironhorse Certificate of Achievement; a 4th Inf. Div. KA-BAR Knife; a Commanding General’s Con-gratulatory Note; an American flag flown over U.S. Division North-Headquarters; and a commanding general and command sergeant major coin, in honor of their out-standing achievements in service to their units, fellow Soldiers, and U.S. Division-North.

The awardees also earned a three-day pass to Freedom Rest-North to relax, and joined Perkins for the 4th Inf. Div.’s Birth-day Dinner in the commander’s mess.

“Freedom Rest is amazing,” said Galin-do, a Houston-native. “We are definitely blessed to have this opportunity.”

Perkins said he and Dailey were hon-ored to spend time with these Soldiers and looks forward to recognizing more of the best of the best U.S. Division-North has to offer.

Spc. Andrew IngramU.S. Division-North PAO

‘Ironhorse Strong Soldiers’ recognized for excellence

Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and U.S. Division-North, presents an American flag to Staff Sgt. Kristopher Koppelman, a Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.-native and rifle squad leader assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, the “Ironhorse Strong Soldier” for the week of Dec. 5, 2010. Koppelman and three other Ironhorse Strong Soldiers of the Week earned rec-ognition for outstanding achievements in service to their units, fellow Soldiers and Operation New Dawn.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD-N PAO

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JOINT SECURITY STATION INDIA, Iraq – Iraqi Army and Kurdish soldiers patrolled alongside their U.S. counter-parts, cautious of their sur-roundings, on the lookout for anything suspicious. Without hesitation, rifles went to the ready – silent communication that told each soldier exactly what to do next.

Soldiers of the 2nd Battal-ion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, from Fort Hood, Texas, conducted dis-mounted movement training and infantry battle drills and tactics with Iraqi Army and Kurdish security forces at Joint Security Station in northern Iraq in December.

“This training is to help or-ganize them in the way they conduct their mission,” said Sgt. 1st Class Derek Wood, a platoon sergeant assigned to Company A, 2nd Bn., 7th Cav. Regt. “During our combined dismounted movement train-ing, they will learn how to properly react to contact and move on the enemy.”

Reacting to the training sce-nario, combined Iraqi Secu-rity Forces patrolled their post, halting at the sound of gunfire. In the distance, notional en-emy forces fired the simulated rounds from a parked truck. The Iraqi and Kurdish soldiers hit the ground, and within a moment’s time, a team of sol-diers disappeared from sight only to later show up closer to the objective.

“When we get positive iden-tification of the enemy, we all

get on line and maintain secu-rity in the area. Then a group of soldiers moves around closer to the enemy so we can cor-ner him and take him down,” said Wood, a native of Pearl City, Hawaii. “Our goal is not for them to just open fire on the enemy as they traditionally do, but to gain positive identi-fication and actually assess the situation.”

The ISF took the lead from their American counterparts, who observed the training to ensure the Iraqi soldiers had proper positioning, and when given the signal, assualting the objective, searching the vehicle and detaining the enemy.

“The soldiers that took part in this training are learning re-ally well,” said Pfc. Dominic Vaughn, a Company A infan-tryman from Fort Worth, Texas. “They’ll be able to train new

Iraqi soldiers on dismounted patrol movement.”

Soldiers of Company B, 2nd Bn., 7th Cav. Regt. also dem-onstrated to the Iraqi noncom-missioned officers at JSS India the proper ways to high crawl, low crawl, conduct three to five second rushes, and individual movement techniques.

Sgt. Roberto Garcia, infan-tryman, Company B, led the team of ISF tactical movement instruction, focusing on indi-vidual, team, and squad move-ment techniques, and by the end of the class, said his stu-dents were familiarized to the training.

“It’s important for them to understand how to move prop-erly and get to cover while fighting and providing secu-rity,” said Garcia, a native of

Iraqi Army and Kurdish Security Forces soldiers learn dismounted movement techniquesSpc. Angel Washington4th AAB Public Affairs1st Cav. Div., USD-N

See DISMOUNTED, pg. 7

Soldiers assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, instruct noncom-missioned officers of 2nd Iraqi Army Division on dismounted tactical movement techniques and formations, Dec. 3, 2010. Soldiers of 2nd Bn., 7th Cav. Regt., worked with their Iraqi counterparts on wedge, line and column formations as part of U.S. Division-North’s mission to advise, train and assist Iraqi Security Forces, who are providing security and stability operations for the people of Iraq.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Washington, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N

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of Essential Services have asked the U.S. forces for no more assis-tance on water or education projects. The provincial directors have completed a five-year plan for new projects and up-keep of current projects.”

Since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, U.S. forces in Iraq have established forward operating bases and contin-gency operating posts outfitted as individual and complex command posts complete with logistical, tactical and life support equipment and amenities necessary to maintain mission readiness and com-bat effectiveness. As the timeline progresses toward the scheduled withdrawal of all American Forces from Iraq, the focus has shifted from full-scale combat operations to advising, training, assisting and equipping Iraqi Security Forces, and removing the seemingly endless supply of military equipment. Items deemed unnecessary for future operations are either relocated, transferred or disposed of, leaving only mission-essential equipment.

In addition to unused equipment, entire bases have been shut down or turned over to Iraqi forces. Soldiers dedicated countless hours, working through the night to ensure deadlines for base clo-sures would be met. These operating facilities have been established over time that spanned several years in many cases. In contrast, some of these bases were given strict timelines of no more than two months to turn over to Iraqi forces or close altogether.

Soldiers of 1st Bn., 21st Inf. Regt., 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div., transitioned control of FOB Khamees in the Diyala province to the

5th Iraqi Army Division Nov. 21. Similarly, 1st Bn., 27th Inf. Regt., transferred the U.S. portion of the Provincial Joint Coordination Center in the Salah ad Din province to Iraqi Police Nov. 5. During the first 100 days of OND, Task Force 2-25 Brigade Support Bat-talion, 2nd AAB, initiated Operation Warhorse Sunset, a clean-up program designed to clear the base of any equipment not contribut-ing to the 2nd AAB mission.

“It is phenomenal that while our Soldiers continue to execute the largest sustainment operation across three provinces since the begin-ning of Operation Iraqi Freedom … we have concurrently been able to amass resources to facilitate complex operations like FOB clean-ups and partnership training,” said Lt. Col. Scott Murray, battalion commander, Task Force 2-25 BSB, 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div.

In many ways, the Warrior brigade has demonstrated commit-ment to seeing its mission through to a successful completion, sup-porting Iraqi government and military goals through advice and training as requested.

Frost said the success of Operation New Dawn is reflected by an increasingly bright future for the people of Iraq.

“In the first 100 days of Operation New Dawn, we have seen tragedy and challenges overcome by incredible progress by Iraqis in the complex environments of Salah ad Din and Diyala provinces,” Frost said. “While clouds will pass from time to time and challenges remain, I am confident the sun’s rays will shine through if we stay committed with our eyes on the eastern horizon and the promise of a new dawn for Iraq.”

Continued from OND, pg. 4

Plano, Texas. “I was able to re-fine their skills so they can go back and train their units.

“This training provides structure and stability, and if they understand the roles of each position, then they’ll un-derstand the big picture,” he explained.

Iraqi soldiers cheered as their fellow soldiers hit the ground making their way to the designated safety area. The tough, dirty training demon-strated for the Iraqi soldiers the techniques necessary for sur-vival in combat.

“It’s important for the (ISF) to move effectively when they go out on their missions, and if something were to happen, they will be able to survive by applying these moving tech-niques,” said Staff Sgt. Eric Ortiz, an infantry squad leader assigned to Company B.

“They’re becoming more proficient as soldiers, and they’re gaining more knowl-

edge and motivation” said Or-tiz, a native of Cayey, Puerto Rico.

The Iraqi soldiers also prac-ticed different movement for-mations, learning which tactics and techniques to use while patrolling or reacting to enemy contact.

“I think it’s good to learn from the Americans,” said Sgt. Khairy Majeed, an infantry-man assigned to the 12th Bri-gade, 2nd IA Div, from Shin-gal, Iraq. “We’re learning their techniques and how to train for the battlefield. What we learn here we can use to defeat the

enemy.”The combined efforts of 4th

AAB, 1st Cav. Div. units oper-ating at JSS India are in support of U.S. Division-North’s mis-sion to provide advisory and assistance support to Iraqi and Kurdish security forces as part of Operation New Dawn.

Continued from DISMOUNTED, pg. 6

Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Iraqi Army Division practice three to five second rushes to refine their move-ment techniques for infantry drills, Dec. 3, 2010. U.S. Soldiers assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, worked with their Iraqi counterparts to make them more proficient at basic infantry drills as part of their advisory and assistance operations to Iraqi forces deployed to U.S. Division-North in support of Operation New Dawn.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Washington, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N

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CONTINGENCY OPERAT-ING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq – Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, commanding general, U.S. Division-North, presented the Purple Heart Medal to 1st Lt. Chad Truslow, fire support offi-cer, Company A, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment at Con-tingency Operating Site War-rior Dec. 9.

“Receiving the Purple Heart is an immense honor, but it’s not something I really had on my ‘to-do’ list when I de-ployed,” said Truslow, who hails from Waynesboro, Va. “I have friends who have received this award for injures far worse than the ones I sustained; a few didn’t get to go home.”

Truslow was injured while traveling in a convoy Nov. 3 when an insurgent attacked his vehicle with a grenade. The at-tack also wounded two other Soldiers; Capt. Anthony Smith, commander, Company A, 1st Bn., 14th Inf. Reg., and Spc. Wilburn Norris, the company radio-telephone operator.

“I have every intention of returning home to my wife and daughter, and I hope that when Norris gets his Purple Heart it will be the last one for Task Force Devil,” said Truslow, whose unit is part of the 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

General Lloyd J. Austin III, Commander of U.S. Forces in Iraq, awarded Smith, of Bra-ham, Minn., his Purple Heart on Thanksgiving Day at COS Warrior. Norris, of San Anto-nio, Texas, is scheduled to be awarded his Purple Heart at a

later date.Perkins also used the oppor-

tunity to address the Soldiers of the 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, from Fort Riley, Kan. regarding the significance of their mission deployed to Iraq in support of Operation New Dawn.

Perkins said those present

should be grateful to attend a Purple Heart ceremony instead of a memorial service, credit-ing the fact to the training and dedication of the Soldiers who assisted Truslow and the others after the attack.

“Your training and your teamwork paid off, and you demonstrated the mettle for

which Task Force ‘Devil’ has already earned a reputation,” said Perkins.

Perkins spoke about the greater significance of Task Force Devil’s mission.

“You are writing the final chapter in the history of the seven year conflict in Iraq,” he told the assembled audience. “Throughout history, wars have been decided not by how they started, but by how they were finished.”

Perkins pointed out that even though the American Revolution began badly for the colonists, in the end it was the American people’s long-term commitment to winning the war that led it to the creation of a strong and independent na-tion.

Likewise, the surprise attack at Pearl Harbor was a major defeat for the Americans at the start of World War II, he added. Yet, as the nation bonded to-gether and mobilized for war, the American people again pre-vailed because of their strength and commitment to the fight.

“Whatever has happened be-fore us here in Iraq, it is now up to us to bring this war to a successful conclusion,” said Perkins. “I’m confident that with Soldiers like 1st Lt. Trus-low and the rest of Task Force Devil, we will accomplish that end.”

Spc. Kandi Huggins1st AATF Public Affairs1st Inf. Div., USD-N

‘Writing the final chapter on the conflict in Iraq’Ironhorse 6 addresses Task Force Devil, awards Purple Heart

Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and the U.S. Division-North, presented 1st Lt. Chad Truslow, fire sup-port officer, Company A, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, with a Purple Heart Medal at Contingency Operating Site Warrior Dec. 9. Truslow, whose unit attached to the 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, was wounded when an insurgent attacked his vehicle with a grenade Nov. 3.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kandi Huggins, 1st AATF PAO, 1st Inf. Div.

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CONTENGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq – Women at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, participated in a Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention class at the Morale, Wel-fare and Recreation Center-North Events Room, Dec. 7.

SHARP is an Army program that com-bines the best aspects of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment and the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response programs, said Master Sgt. Jose Colon, senior equal op-

portunity advisor for U.S. Division-North.

Colon, one of the SHARP pro-gram trainers, broke down what he be-lieves are the keys to escaping an as-sault.

Colon said 90 percent of survival is situational aware-ness, nine percent is technique and tactics, and one per-cent is luck.

“If I can teach someone who doesn’t know how to defend them-selves two simple tactics that they can use immediately in a situation, then I have helped a Sol-dier or civilian to have a nine percent greater chance at survival,” said Co-lon.

During the SHARP training, the women learned simple tactics to pre-vent an assault, such as moving a potential-ly dangerous situation into a public place; how to stay calm and respond quickly if as-saulted; and techniques such as eye goug-ing to protect against an attack.

“You need to remind yourself to keep fighting,” said William Sanabria, a security contractor with Triple Canopy, who volun-teers as a SHARP instructor in his spare time. “Find the will and the desire inside yourself to escape and survive. Remain calm, be aware of your surroundings and look for your exit.”

After learning multiple kicks, punches and pressure points used to subdue an at-tacker, Laresa Merks, a civilian linguist assigned to Headquarters and Headquar-ters Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advice and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, said she found the training practical and easy to learn.

“In the three years I have been here, this

is the first time I have seen training like this,” Merks said. “It’s very simple, and it is great that they teach you to use every part of your body to help you get out of a bad situation.”

The SHARP training is slated to continue in January. The training is open to all COB Speicher female Soldiers and civilians.

SHARP program helps women fight assault Pvt. Alyxandra McChesney1st AATF Public Affairs, 1st Inf. Div. U.S. Division-North

St. Louis, Mo.-native, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Deanna Violette, air liai-son officer to the 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Ironhorse, uses her core strength and balance to defend herself against Ryan Knutson, a private security contractor from Arvada, Colo., from Arvada, Colo., during Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Train-ing at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, Dec. 7. The SHARP Program teaches women tactics and techniques to prevent sexual assault and defend against an attack. Soldiers and civilians at COB Speicher are deployed to Iraq as part of U.S. Division-North in support of Operation New Dawn.

Laresa Merks, a civilian linguist assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Divi-sion, uses the power knee technique against her attacker, Spc. Andrew Ingram, public af-fairs specialist, Company A, Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Inf. Div., Task Force Iron-horse, during a Sexual Harassment/Assault Response Program class at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Dec. 7. The women learned simple tactics to prevent an assault such as moving a potentially dangerous situ-ation into a public place; how to stay calm and respond quickly if assaulted; and techniques such as the power knee to protect against an attack. Soldiers and civilians at COB Speicher are deployed to Iraq as a part of U.S. Division North in support of Operation New Dawn.

For more information contact the USD-N

Senior Equal Opportunity Advisor

Master Sgt. Jose Colon at DSN: (318) 845-6101.

U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Alyxandra McChesney, 1st AATF PAO, USD-N

U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Alyxandra McChesney

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Hey Doc: “I heard that Iraq has temperatures of 130 degrees year-round, so I left my entire U.S. Army-issue cold weather ensemble back in the States. Now I’m cold. What do I do? I feel like I should cover myself up with something.” – Signed “Uncomfortable and Embarrassed”Dear “Uncomfortable and Embarrassed,” First, don’t tell your first sergeant, and then, congratulate your-self on recovering nicely from your blunder through your keen understanding of the cold injury prevention cardinal rule. Namely, when cold, warm yourself up. Or like my mama used to say, “It is cold outside, boy! Put a coat on!”

Kidding aside, cold weather injuries are serious. Hypothermia, or core body heat loss; frostbite, defined as freezing of tissue; and trench foot, a foot injury that occurs in wet and cold conditions, can all occur in Iraq.

Proper planning and attention to detail will help ensure you do not become a cold weather causality. Use your bargaining skills or Army Direct Ordering allowance to obtain proper cold weather gear and follow the memory aid C-O-L-D:

Hey Doc: ‘Should have brought snivel gear’Capt. Nathan TeagueUSD-N Preventive Medicine Officer

C Keep yourself and your clothing cleanO Avoid OverheatingL Wear clothing Loose and in layersD Keep clothing Dry

Santa’s Foundation VisitDec. 17 @ 2000 – North MWR

QuietdriveDec. 17 @ 1800 – DFAC

Christmas Worship ServicesProtestant ServiceChristmas Eve Candle Light ServiceDec. 24 @ 2100 – North MWR

Roman Catholic MassDec. 24 @ 1900 – Liberty ChapelDec. 25 @ 1900 – Liberty Chapel

North Dining Facility Meal HoursDec. 25, Christmas DayBreakfast: 0600 – 0730Lunch: 1100 – 1500Dinner: 1730 – 2030Midnight Dinner: 2330 – 0200

10K Rudolph Run & 5K Jingle-Bell JogDec. 25 @ 0745 at the D-Main bus stop.

Be careful to maintain adequate hydration and nutrition. Do not smoke or chew tobacco as these products increase your suscepti-bility to a cold injury.

Avoid cotton clothing, tight socks and tight boots. Pay attention to the first signs of cold weather injury: shivering for hypothermia and numbness for frostbite.

Seek immediate medical care before the injury progresses to the neurological damage caused by hypothermia; or in the case of frostbite, tingling, swelling, changes in skin color, pain, and frozen tissue.

Do not try to manage a cold injury alone. The goals of hypo-thermia field management are to rescue, examine, insulate, and rapidly evacuate.

In the event of a frostbite concern, do not massage the tissue; seek medical consultation before attempting re-warming. Con-cerned leaders and medical personnel can look to Technical Bul-letin – Medical 530 for specific guidance on prevention measures and injury management. Be sure to report all cold weather injuries to Preventive Medicine personnel.

Another cold weather concern is the appropriate use of heaters. Do not use combustible fuel heaters in non-ventilated spaces or remain in idling vehicles due to Carbon Monoxide poising risk.

Carbon Monoxide is not detectable by the human nose and is deadly. Always use approved electric heaters with care and be aware of the fire risk they pose, and do not overload extension cords or power strips!

Hope this is the last time you deviate from the packing list. Have a warm one, on me.

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CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq – Musicians of U.S. Divi-sion-North’s Rock Band, “High Altitude,” hosted a series of concerts for Soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division’s 3rd Advise and Assist Brigade deployed to southern Iraq, Dec. 9-10.

The band performed its eclectic collec-tion of rocking riffs, bluesy rhythms and gritty vocals for 3rd “Iron” AAB Soldiers deployed to U.S. Division-South at Con-tingency Operating Bases Adder and Gary Owen.

The mission of the 4th Inf. Div.’s Ivy Division Band is to provide quality music and entertainment to build morale, esprit de corps and cohesion for Soldiers of the 4th Inf. Div. and U.S. Division-North, said 1st

Sgt. Cornell Her-rington, the non-commissioned offi-cer in charge of the Ivy Division Band.

Cornell, a native of New Orleans, who plays trom-bone for High Al-titude, said in this case, the rock band made a special trip to southern Iraq to boost morale and provide 3rd AAB Soldiers, who are nearing the end of a 12-month deploy-ment, an opportu-nity to take a break from the routine of work.

Deployed to southern Iraq in March of 2010, ap-proximately 3,500 Iron Brigade Sol-diers assumed the mission to advise, assist, mentor and train Iraqi Security Forces in the Dhi Qar, Basra, Muthanna and Maysan provinces of southern Iraq Sept. 1, 2010 as Operation Iraqi Freedom transitioned to Operation New Dawn.

“This is by far one of the most exciting things that has happened to us in the past five months,” Pfc. Sylvia Joseph, infantry-man, Company A, 1st Battalion, 8th Infan-try Regiment, 3rd AAB, 4th Inf. Div, U.S. Division-South.

Joseph, a New Smyrna Beach, Fla.-na-tive, also said everyone in attendance en-joyed the band’s performance.

Caught up in the music and the atmo-sphere created by the rocking 4th Inf. Div.

band, Joseph grabbed a tambourine, join-ing the band at the front of the room to dance with the music.

“We love to see things like that,” said High Altitude Lead Vocalist Spc. Darnell Crater.

“It lets us know we are doing good, and we feed off the energy,” said Crater, who hails from Lynwood, Ill. “It helps us play better.”

Herrington said High Altitude will con-tinue its mission with tours throughout U.S. Division-North, playing for Soldiers during the holidays to help raise morale and esprit de corps.

Ivy Division Band performs for ‘Iron Brigade Soldiers’Sgt. David Strayer109th MPADUSD-N Public Affairs

Spc. Kasey Walker of the 4th Infantry Division Ivy Band, Division Spe-cial Troops Battalion, U.S. Division-North, plays the acoustic guitar alongside Sgt. Jared Bargas, a bass player for the 4th Inf. Div. Rock Band, “High Altitude” at Contingency Operating Base Adder, Iraq, Dec. 9. Walker also plays the trumpet, and provides backup vocals in addition to his guitar playing duties in the band. High Altitude toured southern Iraq, performing at several locations in U.S. Division-South to boost morale for service members of the 3rd Advise and Assist Brigade deployed in support of Operation New Dawn.

Members of the 4th Infantry Division Rock Band, “High Altitude,” Special Troops Battal-ion, 4th Inf. Div., perform at Contingency Op-erating Base Adder in Iraq, Dec. 9. The band’s horn section, 1st Sgt. Cornell Herrington, Sgt. Tygue Wierda, Spc. Kasey Walker, and CW2 Marvin Cardo, performed at Heroes Dining Facility on COB Adder for members of the 3rd Advise and Assist Brigade, U.S. Division-South, in an effort to raise morale for the 3rd “Iron” AAB Soldiers nearing the end of their 12-month deployment in support of Operation New Dawn.

U.S. Army Photo by Spc. David Strayer, 109th MPAD, USD-N

U.S. Army Photo by Spc. David Strayer

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News & Politics

The Ivy Leaf, volume 1, issue 7