 |  |
| Monthly Archives | [−] |
Prev | List | Random | Next |
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs and other sources around the world. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. Hat Tips to the Dawn Patrol are greatly appreciated.
For U.S. and Sunni Allies, a Turning Point -- [WaPo - Letters]
BAGHDAD -- First Lt. Justin John, 6-foot-4 and built like a linebacker, plopped down on a sofa in front of Ibrahim Suleiman al-Zoubaidi, one of the leaders of the mainly Sunni armed groups that have helped the U.S. military quell violence in Iraq since last year.
Odierno Ready For New Post-Surge Mission -- [CBS News]
"You're targeted as the heavy-handed general. Back then, the charge was that your tactics helped fan the insurgency," Stahl pointed out.
"I think that that depiction is grossly exaggerated. But what I would say is first off, the area I was in was a very complex area. I was in the center of Saddam Hussein's Iraq. I was where he was from. But don't get me wrong. We made some mistakes," Odierno replied.
...I don't want to exaggerate, but he became somewhat of a hero. It has to be a little daunting," Stahl said.
"It's not uncomfortable for me to be here and feel that I have to, you know, live up to General Petraeus. I mean, I feel like I was also part of the success and part of the improvement that we made," Odierno replied.
“There Are 17 Marines Who Are Amputees Fighting In Iraq” -- [Pat Dollard] HT: Castle Argghhh
...Today, there are 17 Marines who are amputees fighting in Iraq. I am certain that there are as many soldiers doing the same for the Army. Recently, I received a widely distributed email from Col (Dr.) Brett Wyrick. He was a trauma surgeon at Balad Air Base in Iraq. He wrote: “If I ever hear (anyone) griping and complaining, I jump into them pretty quickly, now. Most people over here have nothing to gripe about compared to Marines. Marines are different. They have a different outlook on life ". .
A Study in Irregular Warfare -- [SWJ - William S. McCallister]
Iraq’s mainly Shia central government appears intent on limiting the power of the U.S. military backed Sons of Iraq (SOI) and its approximately 100,000 armed security volunteers. The SOI has been credited by the Coalition Forces for helping turn the tide against al-Qaeda in Iraq and are as of this writing remains on the U.S. military pay roll in return for providing security in local neighborhoods throughout the country. The Maliki government initially consented to Coalition Forces recommendation to integrate approximately 20% of these fighters, many of which are former insurgents, into the state’s security forces and to assist in providing vocational training for the remainder. But the Maliki government has begun to hedge on its promise
Ironhorse Report 64
US, Iraq step up operations against Iranian terror groups -- [LWJ - Bill Roggio]
US forces detained five members of the Hezbollah Brigades in Baghdad on Saturday as part of a renewed push to blunt the return of Iranian-backed Shia terror groups reentering Iraq. The Iraqi and US military have stepped up operations against the Special Groups over the past two weeks. Iraqi and US forces killed two Special Groups fighters and captured 107 since Sept. 16.
American and Iraqi Christians Join Together - [NY Times]
BAGHDAD — Amid grave fears for the future of Iraq’s dwindling Christian community, a group of American military chaplains and lay preachers met with Iraqi Christians at the Rasheed Hotel in Baghdad. It was a rare encounter for the Iraqis, many of whom have had family members killed, kidnapped and threatened in anti-Christian attacks since the U.S.-led invasion of 2003, but who came in through the Green Zone checkpoints to sing and pray with their American fellow Christians.
Iraq signs billion-dollar power deals with GE, Siemens -- [Iraq Updates]
Iraq has signed preliminary deals worth billions of dollars with General Electric Co and Siemens for equipment to almost double electricity generation capacity, an energy official said on Saturday.
Iraq And The Calendar -- [Washington Post]
The White House is still hoping to wrap up a long-term strategic agreement with Iraq before year's end, but Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki offered a hint at some of the political difficulties in a little-noticed interview with Iraqi journalists earlier this month.
Dear Iraqi Friends -- [NY Times - THOMAS L. FRIEDMAN]
From: President George W. Bush
To: President Jalal Talabani of Iraq, Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki, Speaker Mahmoud al-Mashadani
...For the past two years, there has been a debate in this country over whether to set a deadline for a U.S. withdrawal from Iraq. It seemed as if the resolution of that debate depended on who won the coming election. That is no longer the case. A deadline is coming.
Bully -- [Zen Traveller - in Iraq]
Driving out of the compound yesterday I watched in horror as a young Iraqi man raised a 2-foot piece of black rubber hose above his head and violently brought it down onto one the the street dogs that populate the neighborhood. If the dog hadn't leaped out of the way he certainly would have hit the dog. The man stood there and laughed as he raised the hose again for another try.
Exile! -- [The Left Captain - in Iraq]
The rumors of this being the end of the world are true. Everyone here joked that I was stuck for a good two weeks once I got off the helo. Today was my theoretical departure day but there is no flight scheduled. I've already settled into a sustainable rhythm, so it doesn't really matter how long I'm here. I have what I need: books, my laptop, a comfortable place to sleep, food, a small gym. I've seen a few patients which justifies my visit, but there really isn't much work for me to do
Sniper Mujahidin
Another Change for CPT G -- [Kaboom - in Iraq]
As this deployment continues, I am beginning to realize that nothing comes easy for CPT G. It seems that as soon as some order is put into place or he is told of some change, something completely different ends up happening. For example, just a few weeks ago I posted that CPT G was becoming a “fobbit” and would be placed in charge of Information Operations. That all changed a few days after I posted “Attention Please.”
Basically, after only ten days of regular showers, normal sleep patterns, and three meals a day, CPT G was told he would become a PL again.
Golden Hour... -- [Collabman's Thoughts - son in Iraq]
Evening...again...It has been a while since I have blogged twice in one day. However, the work of combat medics with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment's evacuation platoon is more than worthy of another blog. The combat medics for the 2nd SCR highlighted in this article face challenges well beyond their job. I am humbled by their efforts and so very glad to have them in the fight...especially during that golden hour when they first reach a warrior who has been wounded. See what you think...Here is a tip of the hat to these brave women who would tell you..."just doing my job." - well done! Enjoy...
Taliban Conscripting Sons In Pakistan -- [ThreatsWatch - Steve Schippert]
A Frontier Corps officer in the tribal region in Pakistan says that the Taliban has conscripted sons in the region, threatening families if they refuse to submit their male children. On Friday, a Pakistani military commander accused insurgents of forced
Locals Join Fight Against Taliban
Pakistan's military has launched a major offensive against Taliban and al Qaeda militants in tribal areas. Some 1,000 militants have been killed in Bajaur region in the last month. Alex Crawford reports from the area where locals have joined the fight.
Another Al Qaeda Last Stand -- [Strategy Page]
September 29, 2008: The Taliban and their al Qaeda allies have been fighting a large, and losing, battle against the army in the Pakistani region of Bajaur (right on the Afghan border). The fighting has been going on for a month now, and the terrorists have lost about a thousand dead, while the army has lost only 27 dead. The large disparity in losses is largely due to the Pakistani use of air power (bombers and helicopters) and artillery.
173rd's Dragon Platoon in Afghanistan HT: MaryAnn
British Operations in Helmand Afghanistan -- [SWJ - Dr. Daniel Marston]
I’m going to try to provide an overview of British operations, called HERRICK, in Helmand (HLD) province, Afghanistan, over the last couple of years. The situation in southern Afghanistan (RC South) is widely considered to be worsening, with the Taliban controlling entire districts and launching major attacks. The British, along with the rest of our allies, have faced heavy criticism for their prosecution of the war in the south. I will look at how the British have adapted to changing conditions, and their understanding and application of COIN principles.
4 LANCS Patrol Kabul
Territorial Army soldiers from 4th Battalion the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment (4 LANCS)in Kabul, Afghanistan.
Commanding presence -- [Daily Gazette - Lt. Col. Paul Fanning]
The commanding general of the 42nd Infantry Division (Rainbow) came to Afghanistan on Sept. 25 and 26 to visit deployed members of his command serving in Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix VII. Brig. Gen. Paul Genereux was accompanied by division Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Fearnside to see members of the New York National Guard’s 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, which falls under the command of the 42nd Infantry Division back in New York.
Taliban kills top Afghan female police officer -- [CBC News]
Sep 28, 2008 ... The most senior female police officer in Afghanistan was killed Sunday in a shooting in Kandahar city
Michael Yon Needs Our Help and We Need Michael Yon! -- [From Cow Pastures to Kosovo]
I've recently been in email and IM contact with Michael Yon. Michael is currently in Afghanistan but not for much longer. He's planning a trip back to Iraq. He has hopes of returning to Afghanistan for several months after Iraq but will not be able to do so unless he gets some SERIOUS financial backing and SOON! Here's part of an IM conversation I had with Michael a couple of days ago:
TRINITY (part 1) -- [Eject! Eject! Eject!]
...the United States stands astride the world as the most economically, militarily and culturally powerful force history has yet revealed.
Why?
Well, one reason is because here in America, a practically broke 19 year old kid can be the President of a Corporation, that's why. Of course some of these fail. Most of them fail, spectacularly fail, flaming wreckage, oh-the-humanity failures. I've had many of these, personally. More will no doubt come. It's easy to succeed in a country that lets you fail this often and this easily. The ingredients for greatness, goodness, success, happiness and prosperity are not hard to find, and yet so much of the world is a political and economic disaster.
Again: why?
Because folks, it ain't the ingredients. It's the recipe.
Somali Pirates: Under the Eyes of the U.S. Navy -- [EagleSpeak]
U.S. Navy photos showing pirate boats around Fainna and pirates on board the captured ship. Click on the photos to enlarge.
UPDATE: Pirates reduce ransom demand and one crewman has died as set out
Editorial in Saudi Daily Attacks the U.S. Administration, Supports the Gulf-Turkey Strategic Alliance To Counter the Iranian Threat -- [MEMRI]
Iran's Arrogant Stance Stems from "The Foolish American Policy"
"In light of Iran's recent threats against the security of the Gulf states, and its [warnings about] the impending disasters, perdition, and [other] terrible calamities that will befall the Arab Gulf states, whose policy is characterized by moderation and conciliation, it was inevitable that these countries should seek a strategic ally to counterbalance Iran's rising power. [This] was inevitable, since Teheran has been using increasingly aggressive and extremist language in its political discourse, arming itself, and provoking the world in its attempt to obtain a nuclear bomb. "The new strategic situation, which has brought Iran to this arrogant stance, stemmed from the foolish American policy, which eliminated Iraq from the strategic regional power equation, and turned it into a torn country, beset by bitter conflict, and - at the very least - into a pro-Iranian state. Teheran has even [gone so far as to] threaten Washington with an attack on the allies of the American forces in Iraq!"
Al-Jazeera Host Dr. Faisal Al-Qassem: The Cold War is Back, What a Relief; Egyptian Liberal Kamal Ghobrial: Despite the Arabs' Hopes, No Cold War -- [MEMRI]
On August 23, 2008, Al-Jazeera host Faisal Al-Qassem wrote: "The dominant mood of the Arab public is one of relief now that relations between America and Russia have come to a head, in accordance with the principle of one people's misfortunes being another people's gain.
"Without a doubt, many Arabs always hoped that what the late Russian president Boris Yeltsin called the 'cold peace' between Russia and the West would turn into a new cold war. How could it be otherwise, given that our lives were many times better in the days of the Cold War than they are now under the unipolar hegemony [of the U.S.]?
"You can't blame the Arabs for their elation at Russia's return to the international stage
Bush Sends His Negotiator For Talks In North Korea -- [New York Times]
The Bush administration is dispatching its chief North Korea negotiator, Christopher Hill, to Pyongyang this week in a last-ditch effort to rescue what the White House had hoped would be a singular foreign policy achievement: an accord leading to the country’s nuclear disarmament.
The Ayers-Weatherman Terrorist Attack as It Might Have Happened -- [PJM - Bob Owens]
"Just some guy in the neighborhood" who almost blew up the Fort Dix NCO Club.
...The attack planned on Fort Dix was an entirely different animal, as authorities carefully sifting through the rubble would eventually discover.
Four 12″ pipe-bombs stuffed with dynamite, using roof nails as shrapnel designed to add lethality to the blast, were recovered in the remains of the basement bomb factory. So were more than 50 sticks of dynamite, some of it fused in eight-stick bundles that could level entire buildings. Had these bombs not detonated hours before in a Greenwich Village basement, the attack imagined above could have easily come to pass. In fact, the terror attack described above would have used less than half of the bombs built by Bill Ayer’s Weathermen.
Osama, Zawahiri to be tried in Pakistan if captured -- [Flopping Aces]
Mmmmm, yeeeeeeeeeeah. Somehow I don’t see that happening under GWB or McCain or even under Obama. GWB’d likely pay or do anything to get him to the US. McCain as well. Obama’d be forced to do anything/pay anything to get them to the US for a fair trial. Besides, I don’t think Pakistan’s govt wants to deal with the blowback from executing people commonly seen as heroes in their own country.
U.S. Urged To Go On Offense In Cyberwar -- [Washington Times]
The United States needs to do more to develop an offensive cyberwar capability rather than just focus on defending its networks from attack, says the chairman of the House cybersecurity subcommittee.
"Mama, they brought me back to life!" -- [Soldiers' Angel Germany]
From yesterday's Stryker Brigade News, this amazing story:
On Feb. 8, 2008, Hixon, a Soldier with 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, was driving his Stryker through streets in Iraq when it was struck by a 500-pound improvised explosive device.
The IED ripped through the cab of the vehicle, killing four of the five Soldiers riding inside. Hixon, left dangling upside down in the twisted remains of the Stryker, was the only one left alive.
Two hours later, he was freed and on his way to Balad.
Bane Support Raffle -- [Soldier's Perspective - CJ]
As you know, we're trying to help raise money to send to fallen blogger Bane's family to help pay for funeral and hospital expenses. Bane was in the hospital before passing away on Monday. To help raise the funds and keep from just asking for money, I thought it would be fun to auction the now famous "Paratroopers of Blackfive" shirt I had made for the 2008 Milblog Conference.
What is success? -- [SouseBuzz - AWTM]
I was reading an article this morning on the success of reintegration, reunion, and the transition of Military families.
How does one measure "sucess in reintegration?"
VA to Raise Traumatic Brain Injury Benefits -- [MilBlogs - Soldier's Mom]
VA to Raise Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Benefits
The Dept. of Veterans Affairs announced last week changes to its schedule for rating disabilities for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), the "signature wound" of Iraq and Afghanistan.
Marine's Widow Hits Visa Snag. -- [Stars&Stripes]
The phone call devastated Robin Ferschke, the mother of a Marine killed in Iraq.
Her Okinawan daughter-in-law, six months pregnant with the couple’s child, tearfully called earlier this week and said she was having problems getting a residency visa to live in the United States. . . .
Starbucks in Afghanistan? Well, Thanks to the Patron's of the Starbucks in Southaven -- [From Cow Pastures to Kosovo]
Several of the Starbucks stores in the Memphis metro area are having drives to collect coffee for the 6/4 CAV currently deployed to northeastern Afghanistan. I received an email today with photos of the first shipment being repacked for delivery out to the remote firebases and outposts. Many thanks to the store manager, Dana, and all of the patrons of the Starbucks in Southaven, MS who donated for this particular shipment
Summary of FY09 Defense Authorization Act -- [Some Soldier's Mom]
Active Duty Issues
- Pay Raise: 3.9% pay raise effective Jan 1, 2009
- End Strength: Army +7K USMC +5K Navy -2.8K USAF -12.5K (did not restore previously proposed cut for USAF, even though SecDef has stated that the planned USAF cut will not be imposed)
VOIP Vanquishes The Cards -- [Strategy Page]
September 27, 2008: The U.S. of phone cards (to pay for telephone calls home) in Iraq has fallen from 12 million minutes (at about 20 cents a minute) a month last Fall, to about half that now. The main reason for this has been the introduction of high-speed internet at military bases. This was made possible by the construction of high speed internet links into Iraq, where the there was very little access until Saddam was overthrown in 2003.
Soldiers in Combat Develop a Powerful Attachment to one Another -- [Soldier's Perspective - Roman General]
The question about will a soldier seek out help when they are losing sleep and exhibiting signs of PTSD. Probably not if they are still in the military, because the military has a deep ingrained belief that PTSD is a weakness.
Children in Battle? -- [MilBlogs - Greyhawk]
...John S. D. Eisenhower: "Presidential Children Don’t Belong in Battle"
Personally I think we should put an age limit on military service - say, 18 years old - to ensure that no children are ever sent to battle. As I understand the author, who spent part of his childhood as a major in the Korean war (presumably commanding younger, less experienced children), this exemption should only apply to candidates.
For those who think that's too exclusionary:
Punishing Bad Generals -- [Strateguy Page]
September 29, 2008: Eight U.S. Air Force and Army generals have been punished for a shipping error two years ago. The error sent four electronic components for nuclear warheads to Taiwan (where they were expecting some helicopter batteries.) None of the generals (ranging in rank from one to three star) lost their jobs, but this black mark on their records will hurt their promotion prospects (badly) and possibly the size of their pension.
Back in Iraq -- [Another Adventure - in Iraq]
I'm home from leave. I had to shut down my blog until I completed a briefing, something I couldn't do from Minnesota. I'm not sure if I will be able to repost my preveous blogs.
Defense establishment opens arms to military bloggers
...He, like most milbloggers, is unabashedly pro-military and supports the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He said his bias — "to counter all the negativity" and "expose the successes of the war" — is known to all who read his blog.
But Grisham said he is no tool for the Army, and he is sensitive to his blog’s being labeled as propaganda, as some have suggested.
"I don’t shy away when the Army screws up," he said.
As an example, he said, the Army provided a one-star general and sergeant major in April to talk to milbloggers about the scandal erupting over deplorable conditions at a Fort Bragg barracks for young soldiers. Grisham said the leaders received a number of "pointed questions" by bloggers who "all know how barracks life is and how it works."
"Initially it was probably a rude awakening," Grisham said. "We didn’t give them a f
Come Safely Home -- [Matel - in Iraq]
My year is finished. I have accomplished all that I will and I have come safely home. So … how did we do?
Reunions delayed for soldiers returning from Iraq -- [Indianapolis Star]
"It's no longer just about a welcome-home ceremony; it's not so simple as that," said Belinda Ireland, a counselor with the Guard's family programs division ...
Soldier's welcome -- [Record-Searchlight]
"You get off the airplane and they put you in an airport hangar, and there are a lot of 'Welcome Home' banners up and there are news crews,"
'Fight the Smears' Website Admits Obama was Kenyan Citizen: Where's the MSM? -- [Newsbusters]
Following the controversy over the authenticity of Barack Obama's birth certificate can be a bit confusing with all its detailed analysis. Your humble correspondent will leave that up to the experts. However, in response to the charge that Barack Obama is not an American citizen, Obama's Fight the Smears website, quoting FactCheck.Org, has made a bombshell admission...Barack Obama was once a citizen of Kenya. You read that right, Obama had Kenyan citizenship until 1982.
A Tale of Two Bracelets -- [Greyhawk]
I wish this wasn't a story - but it is.
...Regarding Barack Obama: According to the father, Tracy Jopek wrote to the Senator: “She had asked him not to wear the bracelet.”
Soldier's mother 'ecstatic' about Obama's bracelet -- [AP/Boston Globe]
...Jopek criticized Internet reports suggesting Obama, D-Ill., exploited her son for political purposes.
"I don't understand how people can take that and turn it into some garbage on the Internet," she said.
Jopek acknowledged e-mailing the Obama campaign in February asking that the presidential candidate not mention her son in speeches or debates. But she said Obama's mention on Friday was appropriate because he was responding after Sen. John McCain, the Republican nominee, said a soldier's mother gave him a bracelet.
Shocking Video Unearthed Democrats in their own words Covering up the Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac Scam that caused our Economic Crisis
The catalyst that caused the economic collapse -- [ROFA Six]
I continue to be amazed at the number of people who blame George Bush and his administration for the housing collapse and economic crisis. This administration did not cause this collapse. But there is no doubt that it's legacy will be a greater economic disaster story that has yet to be written. The "economic bailout" promises only greater pain for our economy.
Documents Reveal Obama's Close Ties to Terrorist -- [Gateway Pundit]
Of course this connection has been reported here several times but it looks like there's finally a crack in the media wall of silence surrounding Barack Obama and his close terrorist friends.
A Special Message from Barack Obama's Teleprompter -- [Iowahawk]
(Need more? Dawn Patrols Archives are here.)
Screen legend Paul Newman loses his battle with cancer. He was a class act, I was a big fan, and he will be missed.
Mr. Newman was political but he was not a hack, he put his money where his mouth was.
Newman has given money to various children’s charities and health centres, to a group that helps the homeless become self-reliant, to refugee groups, to humane societies and animal hospitals and to all manner of educational outlets. He co-sponsors the PEN/Newman’s Own First Amendment Award, a $25,000 reward designed to recognize those who protect the U,S. First Amendment as it applies to the written word.
What you may not know about Paul Newman. He was a Navy vet, decorated with the American Area Campaign Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. More here
There are however, other types of cancers in Hollywood that may not kill you but they do eat away at you. Hollywood's evasive attempt to depict our military.
David Botti, a former Marine, reporting for Newsweek, deployed for a five month tour in Iraq during the invasion of 2003 and recently returned as an embed has his thoughts here.
Big Tobacco speaks of another type of cancer and it can be deadly. It's also his Birthday so wish him well while he blows the candles out on his sandy cake.
While Big Tobacco talks of "the convoys feed the cancer", CPT Lynch of Annex B speaks of escorting a convoy one night.
Sandgram speaks of the cancers in Afghanistan, but victory in a cure is slowing but surely becoming evident. More evidence here.
There are cancers of all types everywhere, and ignoring them won't make them go away. Fortunately some folks have the courage to explore.
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs and other sources around the world. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. Hat Tips to the Dawn Patrol are greatly appreciated.
Iraq Political Progress -- [WSJ]
For some better news this week, turn the channel to Iraq. The Parliament in Baghdad just undid the biggest political knot in the country. Wednesday's deal to hold provincial elections opens the way for former insurgents and their supporters, mainly Sunni Arabs, to join the democratic process in Iraq. That in turn should help consolidate the stunning security gains of the past year.
Sons Of Iraq Transfer
Former Sons of Iraq transferring into the Iraqi army and how it helps the country.
Not so open -- [Abu Muqawama]
The first two Iraqi elections in 2005 were run under a "closed list (CL)" system. In this system, voters voted not for individual candidates but for lists--coalitions of parties--which were then allocated a number of seats proportional to their votes. ...In practice, however, many voters ended up not having access to these lists and thus had very little information about the leaders they elected.
The CL system has since been criticized by Iraqis and outsiders alike for multiple reasons. First, it severed the link between the voter and his elected representative and awarded a dominant role to the political party bosses who, rather than the voters, actually chose the representatives. This selection, unsurprisingly, tended to be based on patronage and loyalty and willingness to toe the line rather than competence or ability to represent constituents.
Local elections and moving goal posts -- [Armed and Curious - in Iraq]
Lost in the lunacy that is the economic train wreck unfolding yesterday was the news that the Iraqi parliament overwhelmingly passed the provincial elections law after finding a compromise on the issue of how to handle Kirkuk. With the law finally passing they have set the stage for elections to occur at the local and provincial level in late January. This is a very important event in a number of ways. Most importantly is, as Tip O'Neil famously stated, "all politics is local" and frankly it hasn't been in Iraq. The national parliament was elected based on party slates so the people voted for a party and not a person. With a certain percentage of the vote the parties got that many seats and there is no answering to a constituency or angry voters. Many of them haven't visited their home towns since returning from exile in the last five years
Rebuilding Iraq: Babil Province - SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS PALPABLE BUT FRAGILE -- [Hillas' Histories - in Iraq]
I arrived in Al-Hillah in the beginning of March 2008, and the changes since then have been notable. The gains in security during that time are reflected in an improved quality of life for the province's citizens. Babil -- the most populous (1.6 million) province in the south central region -- is the keystone for the south central region. The U.S. maintains a Regional Embassy Office (REO ) in Al-Hillah, one of four in Iraq (together with Basrah, Kirkuk and Erbil). Babil is largely located between the Tirgris and Euphrates and has been Iraq's breadbasket as well as an industrial center. The northern part of the province lies within the so-called "Triangle of Death," south of Baghdad. This was a Sunni area lying on the Sunni/Shia fault line and the stage in which active fighting was still taking place until early 2008.
Confiscated Terrorist Video Showing Failed IED Attacks Against US Marines In Iraq -- [avrage poet - in Iraq]
This footage has been confiscated by Marines when they raided a terrorist house and killed 6 and arrested 20 terrorists From "Anssar Alsunna Group" and confiscated about 500 mortar rounds and rockets in Alanbar Province, and my fiance Cpt Ali got a copy of the video and told me to upload it on LL, for more info please contact Cpt Ali because he was with the Marines while they raided that terrorist
Why the Surge Worked -- [Matel - in Iraq]
I read a great article today about why the surge worked. Many of the opinions I read are from those who don’t know. This is different. Please follow the link to the original. It is based on an interview with General Jack Keane. Below is my block quote summary. It is mostly from the article.
Almost Out -- [Matel - in Iraq]
...It is quieter in Baghdad now, or maybe that is just my impression. It may be because whenever I have been here before it has been part of some kind of conference, so there were always other transients around. I have the luxury of a “wet” trailer (i.e. one with a bathroom) but I sort of miss Al Asad. With its Marines and its austerity, Al Asad is like Sparta. Baghdad is more like Babylon.
Frem og tilbake er like langt, but it really does make a difference which way you are going. Last year when I was going into Iraq, I was a little fearful and apprehensive but excited. Now that I am going out, I feel satisfied that my part of the job is done but still vaguely apprehensive.
Silence -- [ ...feeling of absurdity... - in Iraq]
There is an odd state of silence after an operation in which more than 10 Al Qaeda insurgents and supporters were detained in our little section of central Diyala Province. The local nationals no longer ignore the Strykers as they drive by, but now look on with fear, respect, hatred, or appreciation. Either way, they look at us knowing that we can directly effect their lives in either a positive or negetive way - depending on whose side they are on.
Driving In The Dark: Another long, strange trip -- [Annex B - in Iraq]
I just returned from a trip up north the Anaconda. Anaconda is one of the super bases here in Iraq. that I wrote about it earlier this summer. I had to attend an Intel meeting so I decided to go there by the Saber Squadron's preferred means on transportation: a convoy.
One of the reasons I went was to go on one of our convoy escorts. Its one of our regular missions and it’s our biggest one
Suspicious Minds -- [Strategy Page]
In the most violent parts of Iraq, terrorist activity is down over 80 percent from 2007. But that's still 3-4 incidents a day in Baghdad. Most of this violence is gunfire, or an RPG or grenade, not bombs. There appear to be only a few bomb making cells still operational. Much of the American military activity is dedicated to tracking down and shutting down these cells. It is assumed that the terrorists will be true to their vows to fight to the death.
Rocks in a Hard Place - Episode 15 -- [royalairforce]
a shooter and a spotter. It requires a lot of patience and a lot so skill. ... RAFLife Royal Air Force Snipers Squadron ...
B*N*S*N1 -- [MNF-I]
More than 3,000 Iraqis, including 58 women, joined the ranks of the Kirkuk province’s police force during a graduation ceremony held Tuesday at the Kirkuk Police Academy.
Referring to the unprecedented number of graduates, Maj. Gen. Jamal Thaker Baker, the Kirkuk provincial police chief, hailed the moment as “an historic event for the people of the Kirkuk province.”
Welcome to Democracy -- [Zen Traveler - in Iraq]
Today was a first. I witnessed a non-violent protest outside one of the Iraqi ministries; eighty or so people with signs and banners in Arabic protesting the forced eviction from "their" homes. Well, they're really not "their" homes, but more accurately the homes that these people are squatting in, the owners having been displaced, are now returning and want their houses back. The government is forcibly evicting the squatters.
Iraqi Deputy Parliamentary Speaker Calls For Law To Protect Journalists -- [MEMRI Blog]
Iraqi deputy parliamentary speaker Arif Tayfur has called for a law protecting Iraqi journalists and restoring rights that have been stripped from them.
Day 96. Sight Seeing -- [Rocinante's Burdens - in Iraq]
We recently did a little sight seeing. We got to look at the ruins of Babylon. Or as the locals call it "Babil". We had to get special permission to see it because the person in charge does not like American soldiers on the property. In any case, here is what we saw.
A feel good story that the press won’t pick up… -- [The SandGram - in Afghansitan]
I think that victory over here can be measured by small battles as we pursue to improve the lives of the Afghan’s. If you step back and look at how business has been done here, it’s an overwhelming feeling as you are fighting hundreds of years of instilled behavior that is totally foreign to what we believe to be right and wrong in a modern western society. They base a lot of their laws on tribal traditions, a bit on the Koran and “this is how it’s always been done” which brings me to this next story.
Afghanistan Can Wait -- [Strategy Page]
Although American commanders and politicians are calling for more troops in Afghanistan, the U.S. Army believes maintaining morale is more important than reinforcing Afghanistan right away. So three more combat brigades won't arrive there for another 6-9 months. That's so troops back from Iraq will get at least a year at their home bases before heading for Afghanistan.
New 'Unity' to Fight Taliban
The continuing fight against the Taliban in Afghanistan will now be led by a change in the existing command structure.
General McKiernon, a US commander, will now command both the US and Nato forces who are currently based in Afghanistan.
Hello, and welcome -- [Sgt Trevor Skeggs - Eoyal Commando - in Afghansitan]
I have been asked to write this blog whilst deployed on Op Herrick 9 in Afghanistan. Not only do I see it as a great opportunity to stay in touch with those back home but to also give those in Plymouth who aren’t aware of what my Regiment does a great chance to find out. Over the next 6 months I hope that those of you who read this will get to know not only me and my close colleagues, but also gain an understanding of what it is we are trying to achieve in Helmand province Afghanistan.
A letter from Afghanistan, from a hero -- [BlackFive - Maj Pain]
How do we really know what is going on in Iraq or Afghanistan? This solder gives his thoughts, in a letter that was recently published in the Crescent City (California) Triplicate, and I quote
Marines host ‘shura’ to address Afghan needs -- [Bouhammer]
...Since deploying here in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Task Force 2d Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix, has focused its efforts on bringing peace and prosperity to the Afghan people. Organizing and working with local Afghans on various civil military operations projects is one of many tools used by civil affairs Marines to strengthen relations with local residents.
“The people think highly of the Afghan National Army; they want to support the government, and they want the Taliban out,” said Maj. Mark DeVito, team leader, 3rd Civil Affairs Group, TF 2/7, and San Diego, Calif., native. “As a community, they need to determine what affects the most people.
New Militant Outfit Threatens U.S. Facilitators In Pakistan -- [MEMRI Blog]
The website of Pakistani daily The News reports that Fidayeen-e-Islam, a little-known group that claimed responsibility for the truck bomb attack at the Marriot Hotel in Islamabad, has threatened to target individuals working for the U.S.
U.S. says Pakistan shot at U.S. copters in Afghanistan -- [Reuters]
Two NATO helicopters fired upon by Pakistani forces on Thursday were U.S. military aircraft operating inside Afghanistan, the Pentagon said.
"They were U.S. helicopters," Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters at a briefing. "The flight path of the helicopters at no point took them over Pakistan."
Navy Engineer
Navy engineers having success with reconstruction efforts in Southern Afghanistan.
Whatzis? -- [Michael Yon - in Afghanistan]
...Jalalabad is mostly safe, and I felt no threats walking the backstreets and the crowded bazaar, save for one time my danger bell chimed. There was a young man wearing a black shawal kameez with a bandage on his head and one eye puffed closed. He gave a long hard look with his one good eye, and I stared back. But the other thousands of people I saw either seemed to ignore me or were overtly friendly. I felt safe. When I travel in northern India, if someone says “hello” in an urban environment, I am immediately suspicious about what’s coming next. Yet here in Jalalabad, dozens after dozens of people said hello, or gave a thumbs up, and that was it. Sometimes we shook hands and they just said goodbye and walked away smiling
French and NATO Intentionally Deceiving the Public -- [Michael Yon - in Afghanistan]
NATO and the French military continue to deny that a secret report exists concerning the loss of ten French soldiers last month in Afghanistan. For the record, I have no intention of publishing any part of the secret report. Canada’s Globe and Mail newspaper heavily cited the report, and I merely confirmed that the report does in fact exist, that the newspaper article accurately reflected the contents of the report, and warned that if NATO and the French military maintained their position that the report was either inaccurate or nonexistent, they might find themselves contradicted by its publication. More importantly, the document was handed to me with zero expectation that I would keep it secret. In fact, there seemed to be an expectation that I might publish something, though I did keep it secret, other than to verify the Globe and Mail story
To Prove A Lie; But Why? -- [Bill and Bob's Excellent Afghan Adventure]
Not to suppress the truth, but I respectfully disagree; with the comments, that is. To his credit, Mr. Yon did not break the news after reading the French AAR, while he did describe the Globe and Mail story as accurate in its depiction of the facts. There is no sense in denying the factuality once it has been leaked.
...there is a developing microburst over French/NATO denials of the leaked AAR's as an official document. Noises are being made about this issue begging a leak of the document to prove the denial to be a denial in fact.
Whoa.
For those of you who don't know, AAR's contain certain information about the operation it describes; including what went right and what went wrong and how to do it better. We in the military realm, when we get ahold of the other guy's AAR refer to it by another moniker entirely.
We call it intel.
...I have nothing but respect for Michael Yon. His writing is riveting, and he can tell the stories of soldiers in combat like few others I have read.
...I have written before about the issue of telling the truth, and I thoroughly agree with Michael Yon in his call for truthfulness from NATO, ISAF, and the U.S. Army. However, one must balance that with a reasonable assessment of the need to disclose certain information. What is the value of revealing intelligence in the name of truth?
All Eyes on Bajour -- [A Battlefield Tourist]
The analysis coming out of media outlets in the US and Pakistan say the ongoing, all-out battle in Bajour Agency, Pakistan, could very well be the crux of the Pakistani army’s fight against that country’s Islamic militantcy.
The fight is so important to all parties involved that the Taliban are moving forces from Afghanistan to reinforce fighters in Bajour, particularly from Kunar Province. To the Pakistani government, and the Americans closely watching, the fight for Bajour may be the tipping point where either the Pakistani Army or the militants will gain strength, or lose clout, across Pakistan’s entire tribal agency.
Peace Day in Afghanistan -- [Miserable Donuts - in Iraq]
"It's crazy, but apparently the Taliban sent out an email saying they were going to abide by it if we were, and we definitely are," he said.
"It's a great day to show Afghans exactly what peace is like and how their everyday life would be if they just booted out the bad guys."
Russia May Launch Nuclear Cooperation With Venezuela -- [Fox News]
Prime Minister Vladimir Putin says relations with Latin America will be a foreign policy priority for the Russian government.
Putin, who is meeting with visiting Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, says Russia is willing to discuss further military contacts with Venezuela and help it develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
Chavez said during Thursday's meeting that close ties between Venezuela and Russia would strengthen a multi-polar world.
Syria Conducts Large Military Exercise.
Al Qaeda-linked suspects emerge in Islamabad Marriott attacks -- [LWJ - Bill Roggio]
Qari Saifullah Akhtar, the leader of the Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami, and Qari Mohammad Zafar, the leader of the Laskhar-e-Jhangvi, are thought to be behind the devastating Sept. 20 bombing.
Al-Qaeda man feared hiding in Tanzania -- [Jawa Report]
Word out of Tanzania today that security forces are on high alert after reports Al Qaeda leader Fazul Abdallah Mohamed has entered the country.
Soldiers Angels Web Surfing -- [Hooah Wife]
Another weekly surf of the web for news by and about Soldiers Angels
Here’s a new Angel at Everything is going to be all right Welcome! and ‘Happy Angeling’:)
And Soldiers Angels get a Thank You from Balad CASF Medic to all Angels over at Soldiers Angels Germany
From the Victorville,CA Daily Press, a story about Quilters Honor Soldiers
A Request from Bagram -- [Castle Argghhh! - FbL]
This arrived in the mailbox at Soldiers' Angels this morning: a note and a request from the "forgotten war," where winter is setting in...
Secretary of the Army visits Landstuhl -- [Soldiers' Angels Germany]
I see a couple of familiar faces here with the DVs :-)
Feeling the strain -- [Staying in Touch]
...The major was out of the office when he came around. Something was troubling him, and I knew he wanted to talk about it, so I offered to listen. He told me that Sgt. Leimbach’s mother wanted to speak with him. She had reached out, probably through the chain of command, and asked to speak with him, and he was unsure of himself now
After he had spoken, I paused for a moment and then told him that I had some experience with this topic that may be helpful, ...I looked him in the eye and told him that this was an opportunity. I told him that it was clear to me that this is something he wanted to do; otherwise he would not have brought it up. I told him that I was sure that the reason she wanted to talk to him was because he was clearly close to her late son and speaking to him will bring her closer to her son, even though he is gone.
I explained that he was in a unique position. Because of the relationship he had developed and the fact that he was there at her son’s final moments, he could offer her a gift no one else can.
Tonight on SpouseBUZZ Radio! -- [SpousrBuzz - airforcewife]
Tonight SpouseBUZZ Radio has a very special program! We'll be speaking to Christina Thoreson - The Federal Programs Marketing Manager at Microsoft.
Yes, THAT Microsoft!
For the second year in a row, Microsoft has partnered with the USO and has rented out Radio City Music Hall to provide a big show, free of charge! - to service-members and their families. Now that is a big deal!
My Combat Puppy -- [A Soldier's Perspective - CJ]
I wanted to share a combat story with you about some puppies we saved. I love dogs, but my military service always seems to get in the way of owning one. We had a small jack russell terrier named Jack Jack when we were stationed in Georgia, but not long after we got it, I was deployed to Kuwait. My wife was left to raise three kids, one just a few months old, all by herself. The last thing she wanted to worry about was a high maintenance dog and we had to sell it. I was crushed, but I understood what the stress that having to deal with basically four kids would cause her.
You Served Blog Talk Radio Recap -- [Bouhammer]
First I would like to thank all who called in, my son, and anyone who was listening. In case you did not get a chance to listen, you can listen to it here.
Vandal leaves message of hate on soldier's Jeep at Dallas Baptist University (VIDEO)-- [Dallas News - Jeff Brady]
An Army Reserves sergeant studying at Dallas Baptist University was surprised this week to find the message "soldiers are murderers" spray painted on his Jeep Wrangler.
Detailed Plans on Gulag for US Soldiers over at AZ Central -- [C.H.U.D. Busters - LT Nixon]
At the Arizona Republic website, there's an article about the deployment ceremony for the 29th Brigade Support Battalion of the Arizona National Guard. Azcentral.com left it open to comments. The antiwar keyboard warriors took this opportunity to spew the venom that lurks in the dark corners of their minds, showing their faux bravado that they wield when safe behind their cloak of internet anonymity.
... bostonblackie (Sep-25 @ 12:00 PM) tells us all that what we need is reeducation camps for all the atrocity-committing soldiers whowill not be able to contain their bombing, murdering, raping ways once they come back from Iraq
Local chefs throw welcome home bash for troops19 Sep 2008 -- [WTOC - News]
Local caterers deliver a monsterous welcome home meal to more than 450 soldiers and their families in Daffin Park.
Volunteering with National Charity League -- [North Texas Kids Mommy Blog]
However, at the top of the list now, was last weekend when we welcomed home the Iraq troops landing at DFW. The program is called "Welcome Home a Hero" and it truly felt like each one of them was a huge hero. ...
'It's just good to be back' -- [Las Vegas Review - Journal]
David R. Evans, thanked his troops for their service and gave special mention to 1st Sgt. Gonzales. "We did it," Evans said. "We got everybody home."
Exonerated Marine vs Ex Marine -- [Greyhawk]
Exonerated Marine to sue Rep. Murtha
If you've never read Lieutenant General Mattis' letter to Sharrat, you should take a moment to do so here.
...Marine/Vietnam veteran Bing West , in his book The Strongest Tribe: War, Politics, and the Endgame in Iraq offers a recap of Murtha's attack on the young Marines:
Good to know. -- [Castle Argghhh!]
I lived, breathed, worked, and paid a physical price (well, you pay the price, in the form of my 70% disability rating) working with nukes in the Army. It was a zero-defects environment, where you got fired for passing a tool over a warhead, vice under or around it. Or for failing to stop in the middle of an assembly operation and explain to the evaluator why you were using a cross-tip screwdriver instead of a slot-tip, because the technical specs hadn't caught up on paper with a materiels change in the manufacturing process - automatic career-ending bolo
First Flight -- [Neptunus Lex]
Someone pointed out last weekend - after I’d shared the story of flying John - that I had never written of my own first flight. There’s a reason for that really: The truth is probably anticlimactic.
The polite thing, of course, would be to say that it was a roller coaster ride, the full E-Ticket, love at first sight. The real story is a little more… pedestrian?
Solving Stop Loss -- [Strategy Page]
September 26, 2008: U.S. troops are getting a 3.9 percent pay raise next year, on top of a 3.5 percent raise this year. The U.S. Congress has been generous with the troops, providing money for more recruiting bonuses, combat service benefits and increased veterans benefits.
Distinguishing Warfighters from War Fighters -- [The Tank - Steve Schippert]
Gen. David Petraeus is a warfighter. History will record him as one of America's great ones. He did not, however, prosecute war without opposition and obstruction from "war fighters," as they may be called in contrast.
My fellow Tank contributor, the widely respected Mackubin Owens, has a very important piece up at the Wall Street Journal on civil-military relations and the conduct of war. In reading it, you will come to know the difference between a warfighter and a war fighter,...
If I had a dollar to spend on executive protection training, where would I spend it? -- [Zen Traveler - in Iraq]
...Many perspective employers have under-lying medical issues, and often look for medical skills in their protectors. It gives them peace of mind, and when it gets right down to it, that's what we do for a living. The medical world is stratified, thus making it very easy for an informed employer to ascertain exactly what your medical qualifications are. Sometimes the military medical qualifications trip them up a bit, but for the most part anyone hiring an EMT-B qualified protector knows what he or she's getting.
I contend that anyone seriously working as an EP agent should have an EMT certification as a minimum.
Mother, son going to war together -- [The News Observer]
Jane Strand won't have to wonder how her son is doing as he deploys for the first time with the N.C. National Guard to Iraq in a few weeks. She'll be right there with him.
...Strand, 48, of Jacksonville joined the Marine Corps at age 17 and served 11 years. She got out to raise her six children and waited, she said, for her husband -- also a Marine -- to retire. As soon as he did, she joined the Guard.
When she did, she says, she also assumed the rank of mom to a collection of younger recruits. Some have a lower rank than hers, others a higher rank.
Army drafting new blogging guidelines -- [Stars and Stripes]
GRAFENWÖHR, Germany — The Army is working on a set of guidelines for soldiers’ conduct in online forums such as blogs and message boards, but it might be a while before the message reaches the troops.
The guidelines — a compilation of the scattered rules and regulations governing online activity by soldiers — will be included in a rewrite of Army public affairs regulations to be published in the next six months to two years, Department of the Army public affairs specialist Lindy Kyzer said in an e-mail. Soldiers will be told about the guidelines during pre-deployment public affairs training, she said.
But that doesn’t mean soldiers can blog with impunity until the new guidelines are published.
Behind the Scenes: A Kawasaki Moment -- [MilBlogs - Andi]
Who's Guy Kawasaki?
He points to Guy
Oh, no. I didn't invite him to speak. In fact, I didn't even know he was going to be here.
Should you ask him to speak?
Why? He's not on the agenda. Speak about what? I don't understand.
No, no, he's not Keith Kawasaki, he's Guy Kawasaki.
Who's Guy Kawasaki?
Um, he's one of the original Apple/Mac guys.
So yeah, Guy Kawasaki got a taste of milblogs. But little did I know, he already had a clue.
A Few Thanks Are in Order -- [Andi]
A conference doesn't just happen. It requires an army of volunteers. A few people deserve some special thanks for lending a hand. First of all, both Greyhawks and Some Soldiers' Mom (and hubby) volunteered their time to help stuff the attendee gift bags, and they were life savers. Mrs. G also designed the graphics for our conference, as she has every year. Homefront Six and AF Sister manned the registration desk. Some Soldiers' Mom was the go-to gal for the Bozik baby shower and David Marron worked our charity piece. Fuzzy and other angels were on hand to man the Military.com booth, which featured Soldiers' Angels. Oh, and most importantly (heh), Boston Maggie graciously ran downstairs to Starbucks to fetch some green tea when I thought I was going to drop dead from green tea withdrawal.....
Thanks to everyone for your help.
Thank You! -- [Thunder Run]
[Promoted from the Comments - because it deserves a post of its own.]
How can I adequately say thank you to such generosity and kindness that has been shown Mike's memory and our family? This is the largest single source donation ever received by the Mike Stokely Foundation and I promise every penny will be be spent actually buying a book for a child in need or helping a deserving student go to college.
MilBlog Conference - Wrap Up [Thunder Run]
One of the things we do every year at the MilBlog Conference is pick a charity to support. The Milbloggie winners each get a substantial donation made in their name to that Charity in addition to their other gifts. Meanwhile during the conference we also take up a collection to add to those donations being made by our conference sponsor USAA.
Vegas isn't a place to send bloggers -- [Doc in the Box]
because we write about everything.
The USO Girls tell a good tale but they left a few parts out. Lt Nixon was as cool in person as he was onlin, Blackfive threw a bash and here's his words, next time, I'll bring my blackhawk bag. Not only did he hook us up with an open bar at the Penthouse Club but he also talked his way into staying at the penthouse at the Mirage, thanks Penthouse Magizine for the support. The rest of us wished we were as cool they were, no wonder they are blogging Rock Stars.
Our Bloggie Friends -- [USO Girls]
It was also exciting to meet our other favorite reads :Doc in the Box, Army Wife Toddler Mom - she was so much fun! FBL from Fuzzilious- another USO Girl from the west coast, Boston Maggie-hilarious and the best dancer on stage. Greyhawk from Mudville Gazette- I didn't get to meet him at the party but he was a panelist at the conference. I could listen to him all day, he had a great voice, and who could
LTG William Caldwell addresses 2008 Milblogging Conference
Reflections of the Conference -- [CJ - You Served]
I wasn’t impressed this year. I loved that it was in Vegas, but the panels were too closely packed together. There was no time to enjoy each panel AND have a chance to speak with the speakers before or after their turns. There was supposed to be a 10-15 minute break, but even if the panels didn’t run over their time allotment, which is not enough time to use the bathroom and/or hold a conversation. Condensing the conference down to one day was an unnecessary strain.
Having the conference in conjunction with the BlogWorldExpo was a brilliant idea, but we failed to capitalize on the benefits this could have reaped. I’m not sure if this was a requirement or not, but the door to our panels was always closed; very uninviting. Additionally, there was no huge announcement – a la GodBlogCon – announcing the presence of the greatest bloggers in the world. After all, the military blogging community is the creator of the term “blog” ...
Live From Blogworld: The Political Blogosphere in Transition
For the right, the efforts to support the troops and the war effort was headed by the relatively small community of Milbloggers - people whose commitment to veteranss issues as well as giving reasonable and incisive critiques of strategy provided conservative bloggers with the basis for their own views on the war.
Congradulations to SandBox -- [Briefing Room - Toby Nunn]
In the past week there has been a lot of great things happen in the Military Blog World. I want to draw your attention to something that I have a personal stake in but in future endeavors while our Friend here at the Briefing Room and and other places Troy from Bouhammer.com helped make famous. I am referring to the SandBox! If you look in our BOOK SECTION you will see the write up and way to purchase the book. It is a compilation of bloggers that have sent frontline dispatches. There is an Online Version that I have been published on many times for those of you that have followed but this print version is wonderful. I had been introduced to Troys work by JP Borda whose brother used to work with him back in the day but the SandBox was the reason
A PHOENIX CALLED VEGAS -- [Trying to Grok]
...The war is different from when Colby Buzzell started writing. It's different from when my husband was there last. I wish he could share stories of the things he's doing these days, because those are the things that are preparing Iraq for her future. But Civil Affairs teams can't talk about any of the good stuff, and the occasional press release can't even name names.
But they're out there and they're working. It's a shame that some of the best stuff out of Iraq can't be blogged. But that's a tradeoff we gladly make.
I spoke on the community panel, which is in many ways the heart of what keeps milblogs relevant.
Milblog Reports -- [Concrete Bob]
From my friend CJ on the VA Mortgage Center site. The incredible Army Wife Toddler Mom, the always vivaciousHomefront6, and the irrepressible Hooah Wife and Friends. Blackfive has evidence, er, I mean pictures.
Marcus has a good post, which was actually a live blog of the last panel. Greyhawk moderating, and Toby, JP, Christian Lowe, and Troy Steward on the panel.
He also live-blogged the closing ceremony, which I hope someone got on video.
Why the Media Really Won't Embed -- [Thunder Run]
... I want to talk about something that Christian Lowe said during the final panel discussion - The New Cadre of War Reporters at the 2008 Milblog Conference. He stated that every journalist in the world wants to get to Iraq, because it’s the biggest story of the generation, and that he was mad he couldn’t get there until he could.
I can understand that sentiment, but when the talk turned towards the lack of imbeds and the use of stringers by news agencies instead of actually sending their journalists there, not only because of the danger but also because of the cost, I became very interested. I would like to offer up another possible alternative for this phenomenon that wasn’t put forth by me but by one of those journalists.
The World Is Upside Down... -- [Tanker Brothers]
Wall Street is on the front page, while Soldiers protecting and fighting for the newest of democracies are relegated to the nosebleed section of the New York Times. In July of this year (2008), there were 13 Coalition Service members that gave their lives protecting the fledgling democracy in Iraq. In Senator Barack H. Obama's hometown of Chicago, 62 people were murdered in that same period.
You won't see that little tidbit on the front page, I assure you.
But here we are, a little over a month from a Presidential Election during one of the most pivotal times in our nation's history, and no one is talking about the one most important issue: our War on Terror.
Is Wired Magazine’s ‘Military Correspondent’ a Kremlin Dupe? -- [PJM - Kim Zigfeld]
Axe has made a few freelance trips to Iraq and calls himself a “military correspondent,” with his main claims to fame being that he (a) often writes about Iraq for Sun Myung Moon’s Washington Times and the Village Voice and (b) he writes graphic novels about war. It doesn’t appear that he has any expertise in Russia at all, or any military or national security credentials. The Daily Gamecock described Axe this way in 2001: “David Axe is 23 years old, a graduate student, a movie theater manager, and an overall nice guy, but, first and foremost, he’s a writer.
Is Wired Magazine’s ‘Military Correspondent’ a Kremlin Dupe? (Part 2) -- [PJM - Kim Zigfeld]
On September 12, I published a column on Pajamas Media raising questions about some reporting about the Georgia conflict by Wired magazine’s David Axe. I pointed out that Axe, in attempting to argue Georgia was at fault in the conflict, had relied on a single source, Professor Gordon Hahn, whose background indicates a web of Kremlin connections that Axe did not disclose, calling his journalistic ethics and/or competence into question. I also noted that Axe himself is by no means a qualified military expert, so he should have reached out to a corroborating source to verify the story — which should have been child’s play if he really has the access he claims.
On that same day,...
US Combat Troops to Patrol our Streets — Or not -- [Murdoc Online]
Brigade homeland tours start Oct. 1
Army Times had a story a few weeks ago about the 3rd infantry Division’s 1st BCT upcoming mission:
Beginning Oct. 1 for 12 months, the 1st BCT will be under the day-to-day control of U.S. Army North, the Army service component of Northern Command, as an on-call federal response force for natural or manmade emergencies and disasters, including terrorist attacks.
...I pointed out that there’s nothing in the story about patrols, but my comments are sure to be downvoted because instead of playing nice I’m getting all factual and everything.
What Happens in Vegas Goes on a Milblog -- [Military.com - Beth (Castle Argghhh), Ward Caroll - Rachel (AWTM), Toby Nunn]
This week Ward reports live from Las Vegas where the third annual Milbloggers Convention was held. What is the future of milblogging? What do milbloggers recommend for those who want to help the troops? And what is Army Wife Toddler Mom calling her new blog?
Figures. Media Ignores Biden's Outright Lie About Iraq... Focus on Visiting African 'Witchcraft" Pastor At Palin's Church -- [Gateway Pundit]
In October 2007, Senator Joe Biden introduced and sponsored Amendment 2997 in the US Senate.
It was an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 and its purpose was- "To express the sense of Congress on federalism in Iraq."
MSNBC described Biden's federalism bill:
The bill passed.
The Iraqis were furious. They protested in the streets and called a special meeting in parliament to reply to the U.S. Congress resolution on the division of Iraq into three Shiite, Kurdish and Sunni entities.
Now, Joe Biden is denying he ever pushed the federalism bill.
Paul Murdoch channels Allahpundit -- [Talon]
The loss of her powerful voice is hard enough, but there is also the seeming implication. Even the most internet savvy conservatives–the people we most need to reach to have any hope of stopping this–presume that if Michelle is not still objecting to the Flight 93 memorial, it must be okay now.
It is NOT okay. It is a thorough-going memorial to the terrorists. As Tom Burnett Sr. (father of Flight 93 hero Tom Burnett Jr.) keeps urging, we have to “do something,” as his son got up and did something. We have to stop this re-hijacked Flight 93 before it reaches its destination.
If Michelle is going to hand such an important portfolio to Allah, doesn’t he have an obligation to check a few facts before smearing fellow conservatives as truther-like? Allah and Michelle are good friends and much beloved for their excellent judgment and hard work. There is no anger here. Just an appeal for both to take another look. Paul Murdoch has even provided a fitting pretext, if any is needed.
Reid v. McCain -- [Rabble Rouser Ruminations]
It would seem that the Democrats are playing the ultimate game of "GOTCHA!" with Senator McCain. No doubt, if you have paid ANY attention at all to the discussion around the Bail Out, you will hear Democrats reaming McCain for coming back, saying it was unnecessary since he wasn't needed, and he isn't saying anything anyway. Unlike Obama, who took over the meeting at the White House. It was shades of his time in the IL Senate from what I can tell. What do I mean? That it dissolved into shouting and yelling. What a leader. What a uniter. And by the time you read this, Obama will be winging his way to Oxford, MS, for the big debate - the first time he has ever shown ANY interest in debating. Huh.
Congress did something useful this week -- [Soldiers' Angels Germany]
No, I don't mean the bailout.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Pain Care Policy Act.
...Among the millions of Americans affected by pain are thousands of young veterans injured in Iraq and Afghanistan. For example, the cause of so-called phantom pain from amputated limbs is not fully understood, and much more research is needed to develop effective methods of treatment.
Debate commissioner: If McCain doesn’t show, it’s cancelled; Update: McCain says he’ll be there; Update: “We need a deal” -- [Hot Air]
Ole Miss wants a townhall with The One if Maverick bails, but don’t expect the Debate Commission to participate, says Frank Fahrenkopf. To do so would constitute an in-kind campaign contribution. Where would that leave us tonight, though? If Obama’s willing and the university’s willing and the networks (surely) are willing, can’t they just usher Jim Lehrer and Commission personnel out the door and go on with the show?
Code Pink Meets Up with BFF Ahmadinejad -- [LT Nixon]
This isn't much of a surprise, seeing how these hags already met with Hugo Chavez, but Code Pink is totally stoked to meet up with the infamous holocaust-denying, terrorist-financing, Ahmadinejad. Code Pink press release:
Top Obama Bundler & Code Pink Co-Founder Meets With Ahmadinejad. -- [Gateway Pundit]
A group of radical Leftists, Marxists and loons met up last night with Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City.
Kristinn at Free Republic first reported on the meeting.
Jodie Evans, a top 500 Obama bundler and RNC Palin protester, attended the event.
Evans has raised nearly $100,000 for Barack Obama.
Veterans Urge Obama to Finally Tell the Truth About the Surge -- [Gateway Pundit]
"I am not persuaded that 20,000 additional troops in Iraq is going to solve the sectarian violence there in fact I think it will do the reverse."
Air Force Baby
(Need more? Dawn Patrols Archives are here.)
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs and other sources around the world. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. Hat Tips to the Dawn Patrol are greatly appreciated.
Intercepted Letter: Al Qaeda Weakened in Iraq -- [FOX News]
U.S. General David Perkins told FOX News Wednesday that the military has intercepted a letter in which senior Al Qaeda operatives reveal their fury over militants' failure to keep up with the campaign against U.S.-led forces in Iraq.
The letter, dated March 6, 2008, has been reproduced with select quotes in Eng More..lish.
It was found on the body of Abu Nizar, believed to be the go-between between Al Qaeda's second in command, Ayman al-Zawahiri, and Abu Ayyub al-Masri, his leader in Iraq.
Iraqi President Praises Bush as Liberator of Iraq -- [Defense Link]
The Iraqi people look upon President Bush as a liberator who delivered them from a brutal despot, Iraq’s chief executive told reporters at the White House today.
Bush is a hero who saved Iraq “from the worst kind of dictatorship” under Saddam Hussein, More.. President Jalal Talabani said.
And Iraq has “no stronger defender” for its people than Talabani, Bush told reporters after meeting with the Iraqi president. Talabani has served as Iraq’s president since 2005.
Safer Iraq draws foreign investors -- [USA Today]
BAGHDAD — Iraq is poised to receive a flood of foreign investment, thanks to improved security. More than $74 billion in projects have been submitted for government approval in just the past five months, according to Iraq's state investment regulator.
The investors include companies from the U.S., Europe, and Gulf Arab states.
Pentagon chief cites caution on U.S. troop pullout -- [USA Today]
Secretary of Defense Robert Gates told Congress Wednesday that the United States has entered the "end game" in Iraq, but cautioned that the next president should expect to be in Iraq "for years to come."
Voices of the Awakening: Transfer of Anbar Security and Other News -- [Counterterrorism Blog]
Today FDD's Center for Terrorism Research brings you the second installment of our Voices of the Awakening project, authored by Sterling Jensen, which is designed to provide Westerners a better understanding of ongoing developments in Iraq's Awakening movement. This regular feature includes critical translations of Awakening news and documents, Jensen's observations and analysis, and occasional interviews with the movement's leaders.
Day 82, Morale -- [Rocinante's Burdens - in Iraq]
Military commanders have long believed that morale is important to the performance of soldiers in combat. There are many factors in this and psychologists have filled libraries with studies on the topic.
Sad, Grumpy and Reaching for Perspective -- [Miserable Donuts - in Iraq]
Then we had the September 11th rememberance ceremony this morning. That didn't help my mood any. I'm already grumpy, and then I added sad to the mix. Maybe a little bit pissed off too - I'm still not real happy that I have been sent, twice now, far from my family and home to go fight 7th Century minded savages who seem to do naught but kill the innocent. I wish they would bloody well mind their own business and stop trying to impose their crude vision of how the world should work on everyone else. Blowing up the innocent, all for the Greater Glory of the Almighty... bah.
Split Personality -- [Big Tobacco - in Iraq]
...Doc hands me a new bag of Hextend. An IV solution that is used as a blood plazma expander. This solution is given to patients who have lost so much blood that death is imminent. Hextend looks like any other IV solution, and in the heat of the moment, can be confused with standard saline or Lactate Ringers. Accidentally giving a patient Hextend will double the volume of their blood and cause a stroke. The solution is to mark Hextend bags with red electrical tape. I mark the bag.
I spent six months of my life working on C# .NET Compact Framework versions of drivers for Printech and Extech mobile thermal printers. Those printers are now used at circuses and fares around the nation to print admission tickets and receipts at the concession stand. My reward for a successful project was my replacement by a contractor and a ticket to the unemployment line. Good thing I have a knack for landing on my feet.
It rained today -- [Fobbits need ice cream too - in Iraq]
It was 63% humidity all day @ 142 degrees around midday. It's been humid lately at night, but not during the day; it was pretty brutal. We sat at the staging lot for 5 hours; it turns out we were not supposed to push all along, something about a Ramadan ritual with a boy who walks through the streets beating a drum. It's holy to Muslims and we are respecting the day; the word never got down to us.
Attention Please -- [Kaboom! - in Iraq]
The time has come: CPT G has left the Gravediggers. They said their good byes and held a farewell party on Saturday night. He got to drive a stryker around and they had a chem-light party on the roof of the outpost. There were near beers and there were real tears (poetic, right?). In all seriousness, he has already expressed to me how much he misses the guys and the rush that comes with being on the line. Mama G and I can breath a sigh of relief because he is now in a much safer place, stationed at the FOB (Forward Operating Base) and is in charge of Information Operations.
To Protect & Serve -- [Matel - in Iraq]
We made an office call to the IP chief in Hadithah, and were fortunate to also meet the IP chief from Baghdadi, who was visiting his colleague. This is the third IP office I have visited recently. In all cases, the facilities were clean and well ordered and the individual IP officers in uniform, neat and professional looking.
A question of gratefulness -- [Armed and Curious - in Iraq]
Well, I have enjoyed my leave immensely. I have managed to be lazy yet productive on the home front while even squeezing in some running again to whip my broken old body into some kind of shape other than that of a pear. I can say with no reservations that it is very good to be home. I will let you know how if I feel the same way after I start commuting back up to DC Monday.
Al-Qaida figure: Death to Iraqi Sunni leaders -- [AP]
CAIRO, Egypt (AP) — The purported leader of an al-Qaida-dominated insurgent umbrella group in Iraq has called for the murder of all members of the country's main Sunni Arab political party, in an audio message posted Tuesday on militant Web sites.
Raw Video: Pentagon 9/11 Memorial - [AP]
View sick comments
Top Military Officer Urges Major Change in Afghanistan Strategy -- [WaPo]
The nation's top military officer issued a blunt assessment yesterday of the war in Afghanistan and called for an overhaul in U.S. strategy there, warning that thousands more U.S. troops as well as greater U.S. military involvement across the border in Pakistan's tribal areas are needed to battle an intensifying insurgency.
9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Camp Eggers in Kabul, Afghanistan
The Overt War in Pakistan -- [Abu Muqawama]
Kip thinks the apparent decision to overtly undertake commando operations in Pakistan is a positive step. There is simply no way to win in Afghanistan without going after sanctuaries in Pakistan.
That said, our focus has to be on defeating the underlying social, economic, and governance issues that allow these sanctuaries to exist, including urgent repair of the Frontier Corps.
Haqqani Network Getting Hammered; Counterattacks in N. Waziristan -- [A Battlefield Tourist]
Over the past two weeks, the Haqqani terrorist network has been under a daily assault, in both Afghanistan and Pakistan, causing heavy fighting to erupt in North Waziristan. It comes on the heels of a US missile strike against the network’s top madrassa facility and now militant fighters loyal to the family are counterattacking.
Pakistan: The Heart of Terror -- [LT Nixon Rants]
President Bush announced today that more Marines (a battallion's worth which is ~500-1000) and more soldiers (a combat brigade which is ~2000-4000) are headed to Afghanistan later in the year as opposed to Iraq. This is a good strategy, as violence has been increasing in Afghanistan and declining in Iraq. But the prez sez that the major battlefield with Al-Qaeda is in Iraq
The Ugly of War:
FDNY operating in the South Tower on 9/11 -- [9/11 Families]
At 9:03 a.m., on 9/11, terrorists crashed United Airlines Flight 175 into the World Trade Center’s South Tower. Four minutes later, the FDNY’s Battalion 7 Chief, his aide, and five firefighters from Ladder 15 — led by my wife’s brother — arrived in that tower’s lobby. While a FDNY City-Wide Tour Commander set up the command post there, a Deputy Chief (4 Bravo) moved from there to Tower 2’s staging area at West and Liberty Streets and the Battalion 7 Chief attempted to establish communications with the Battalion 1 Chief at the command post in the North Tower.
Battalion 7, his aide, and the five members of Ladder 15 then used a working service elevator that they had found and proceeded to the 40th floor.
American Families, Seven Years Later -- [FSM]
...My husband volunteered for the New York Guard seven years ago. He and his fellow soldiers back up the National Guard, so many of whom are in Iraq and Afghanistan.
My young boys know that the soldiers who fight the war on terror here and abroad are doing a good thing.
My daughter has emergency instructions should there be a blizzard, train strike, or terrorist attack.
The attacks on our country changed the way families do things – but not who we are.
James Hookers War -- [James Hooker]
a songwriters weapons
Generally, people like my song/videos. That’s good. A few people, usually bloggers who can’t compose, perform, or do anything other than copy and paste deep insights they find on Drudge, accuse me of being overly corny, sappy, maudlin, simplistic, yadda yadda. A hale and hearty, sans lube, you know what in the you know what from me to them. I don’t care.
The several songs of mine that were spawned that September morning had to go somewhere other than a shoe-box under my bed. I was pissed off. Still am. Not only at the islamofacists who perpetrated these acts of barbarism, but Father Time himself - I wanted so much, on September 12, to do as my forefathers did - ‘Jine up! But, at 53, I would have made a for one half-assed infantryman
Seven Years On..... -- [BlackFive - Deebow]
I wanted everyone to see that this is the most important photo to me from the attack on our country 7 years ago.
Not the towers collapsing. Not the airplanes crashing into towers. I prefer to remember this day with this photo.
Moments of silence mark 9/11 terrorist attacks -- [CITIZEN-TIMES]
Relatives of victims killed at the World Trade Center are observing moments of silence to mark the seventh anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
The ceremony at ground zero included moments of silence at 8:46 a.m. and 9:03 a.m. - the times that two hijacked jets slammed into the twin towers. Two more moments of silence were to be held at the times the towers fell.
Teddy Bears -- [Soldiers' Anfels Germany]
September, 2001.
We finally summon the courage and do what we’ve come here to do. We ask the taxi driver to take us to Ground Zero.
...I am shaken by the fact that I can’t remember which building used to stand where, exactly.
. . .
The smell.
Like jet fuel and burning and burnt hair. But all wet, from the millions and millions of gallons of water they poured on it.
New York's 9/11 memorial plagued by delays -- [Chicago Tribune]
NEW YORK — Although memorials are opening in time for Thursday's seventh anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, the first of the steel girders that will support the largest memorial to the worst terrorist attack in U.S. history were only recently lowered into place here, marking the long-delayed beginning of construction at the World Trade Center site.
Pentagon 9/11 memorial honors victims in symbols, concrete -- [CNN]
The grooved, gray concrete wall rising from a few inches to a few feet seems to be solely for blocking the noise from the nearby highway, but like many parts of the new Pentagon memorial, there is more to the wall than meets the eye.
Seven years after the September 11 attack on the Pentagon, the wall is designed to remind visitors of the youngest and oldest victims, wrapping the memorial in symbolic imagery.
It stands 3 inches tall at its beginning, representing the youngest person killed there -- 3-year-old Dana Falkenberg -- and continues to a height of 71 inches, corresponding to the oldest victim, retired U.S. Navy Capt. John D. Yamnicky Sr.
New Al-Qaeda Video for 9/11/08: "The Harvest of Seven Years Since 9/11" -- [MEMRI]
From the MEMRI TV Archives: Clips This Year About 9/11 -- [MEMRI]
The MEMRI TV Project has so far produced over 1,800 clips, totaling more than 14,200 hours of footage - the largest archives in the world. MEMRI TV is viewed in 197 countries around the world, and to date over 20 million visitors have accessed the website. The MEMRI TV Monitor Project monitors over 90 channels from Iran and the Arab world, around the clock. MEMRI is the only organization making such content available worldwide.
Where We've Come since 9/11 -- [Counterterrorism Blog]
My colleague Matt Levitt and I wrote two op-eds this week taking stock of the US counterterrorism efforts as we approach the seventh anniversary of 9/11. We also assess what the terrorist threat is likely to look like and what counterterrorism environment the next administration will inherit in January 2009. As we noted in one of the pieces, despite the steps that has been made, this area is still very much a work in progress.
Firefighters' Developing Role in Counterterrorism -- [Counterterrorism Blog]
Seven years ago, the 9/11 attacks sounded an alarm in fire departments across the country: suddenly, they would need to decide whether they had a role to play in preparing for, and preventing, terrorist attacks. A growing number of fire departments concluded that they did, and are now leveraging their existing capabilities to enhance the effectiveness of local counterterrorism operations.
Remembering 9/11 - “The Evil That Men Do Lives After Them” -- [Counterterrorism Blog]
It has become customary for commentators on terrorism to mark the anniversary of Al Qaeda’s 9/11 attack against the United States as an occasion to review and assess the progress we have made in combating terrorism. Our government and other governments around the world have expended enormous efforts to isolate Al Qaeda’s senior leaders, reduce their appeal, and to better secure our safety. Much of our confidence has been restored as we go about our normal daily business; although we have had to acclimate ourselves to new restrictions, airport inspections, a diminution of our civil liberties, and a massive invasion of our privacy. But,
Text your support to 9-11 family members and our troops -- [Soldiers Angels Network]
Text your support to 9-11 family members and our troops
Freedom Walk Rolling support!
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
- TEXT 89279 -
Letters from the front -- [Soldier's Angels - Medical Support]
Had to share some of these with you because I just like how they show the spirit of our guys and gals over there:
roger,
i just got the package with coffee mugs and snacks with misc items, in wednesdays mail. mail was not running yesterday and i have no clue if there is anything there yet today. thank you so much. PFC Rickman's stomach also thanks you as well. lolol.
as you may or may not know, Ramadan is right around the corner here in September. aside from all the hooplah about how things are all roses and daisies during this timeframe, i have better sense than to accept the politically correct standpoint of this holiday being peaceful. past experience has told me to not let my guard down.
What does September 11th mean? -- [A Major Perspective]
As I sit here this morning in my classroom, not far from the one I was in seven years ago, I find myself reflecting on what does September 11th mean. Seven years ago I was also here at Fort Leavenworth TDY (temporary duty) for the CAS3 course.
BlogWorld & New Media Expo Assembles Superstar Line-up of More Than 150 Speakers
Largest Blogging Conference in the World Brings Together New Media Mavericks and Experts to Inform, Share Experiences and Inspire
As the only industry-wide tradeshow, conference and media event dedicated to promoting blogging and new media, BlogWorld includes more than 50 seminars, panel discussions and keynotes from industry luminaries iconic personalities, and world-renowned blogging and new media experts.
...Other speakers in BlogWorld's all-star line-up for 2008 include:
-- Leading Milblogger (military blogger) voices including: Matt Burden (Black Five), Greyhawk (Mudville Gazette), General George William Casey, Jr. (the 36th and current Chief of Staff of the United States Army), Bill Roggio, and Pam Spaulding.
September 11, Not In Memoriam But In Resolve -- [Anti-Idiotarian Rottweiler]
Earlier this morning at work, I was nauseated to have to listen [not by choice] to an NBC Commentator attack the administration, the McCain Campaign and real Americans for using 9/11 as a “Cheap” political stunt to terrorize the electorate into supporting the GOP ticket. The bastard using the same old worn-out narrative, blaming Bush and even Rudy for the 9/11 disaster, and now saying we are using this tactic to win the election. The lying prick even insisted that it was pressure from the administration that the footage and photos from that terrible day were generally taken off the “news cycle” only to be brought back out now, for votes.
More Biden and the Helicopter -- [Media Blog - Greg Pollowitz]
How being "forced down" near the "gates of Hell" was reported at the time:
A helicopter with three U.S. senators aboard — including former Democratic presidential nominee John Kerry of Massachusetts — has made an emergency landing in Afghanistan, the Associated Press is reporting.
Terrorism Fades as Issue in 2008 Campaign-- [WaPo]
But Both Obama and McCain Use National Security to Frame Larger Themes
Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. Analysts say the absence of an attack on U.S. soil since 2001 has left many thinking the threat has diminished.
The joint appearance at Ground Zero today by Sens. John McCain and Barack Obama will not only commemorate the seventh anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks but also will mark a rare moment in the campaign when both candidates focus on terrorism, an issue that has lost prominence for American voters as the deadly attacks recede in the public memory.
Joe Cook -- [MilBlogs]
I put this here not as an endorsement of the content, but because I checked the back story and I think reporting that is worthwhile - one thing we've learned in these parts is not to trust everyone who says they're an Iraq veteran.
Before proceeding, let's acknowledge there are plenty of wounded troops who support Barack Obama. (Tammy Duckworth might be the best known of these.)
The young man in the video is Joe Cook, and is indeed an Iraq veteran - one of three brothers from a Chicago suburb who served there. Cook was wounded in Baghdad during "surge" operations. The Chicago ABC affiliate did a story on Cook's homecoming in October, 2007.
Call To Arms: Defending Honor -- [Steve Schippert]
There are a lot of positions John McCain holds that warrant debate and even criticism. But his honor - the core of his character - is decidely not among them. Period.
Barack Obama's press secretary has stepped where he ought not have gone, questioning John McCain's honor. And when it comes to defending the honor of honorable men, American veterans don't circle the wagons, we circle tanks and load the turrets. Mindless smear will not stand. Not now, not ever.
The Discrete Charm of the Frontier Woman -- [The Daily Brief - Sgt Mom]
I understand that some of our foreign observers generally are having a bit of trouble grokking the attraction of Sarah Palin amongst the blue-collar electorate in a variety of American locales not known for exhibiting that Olde Worlde Cosmopolitan Charm. Lord knows our very own dear political and media elite are having much the same kind of problem. Kind of fun to watch them twist and squirm in the icy cold wind, as they slowly realize that the rest of the ’08 campaign will not be a walk in the park for the Fresh Prince of Chicago
Foreign policy questions for Sarah Palin, and suggested responses -- [TigerHawk]
FP Passport blogger Rebecca Frankel proposes twenty foreign policy questions for Sarah Palin, who is apparently boning up on the issues with the help of Joe Lieberman and other advisors. The proposed questions are set forth below, and I have taken the liberty of supplying the answers that I would give. Note that my answers are not necessarily the best for somebody trying to win an election so I certainly hope that Governor Palin runs them through the campaign team before using them, but I suspect they are the answers that most national security Republicans would wish to hear. My proposed answers are offset and in italics.
(Need more? Dawn Patrols Archives are here.)
I can only point to a few things today. (I never knew teenagers could get Kidney stones, it's not pleasant, for her either. If only kisses could take pain away.)
Glenn Talks to Michael Yon via Sat-Phone
These guys are studs. All they do is work out and fight." He says troop morale generally in Afghanistan is really good, partly because there's more public support for that war, but that the overall situation is "not great" and "clearly deteriorating." He adds that "we're not losing," but that we're not making progress either. "I'll tell you Glenn, we really need more troops here." With what he describes as a "meltdown" going on in Pakistan, he says that Afghanistan needs a lot more troops -- like 50,000 or more. Part of the problem, he adds, is that many of the Coalition troops, like the Germans, aren't really allowed to fight, making the effective number of available troops lower than it seems.
Apparently General Patraeus' "Surge Strategy", had nothing to do with the success in Iraq, it's because of Biden [HT: Jawa]
Iraq is getting better because they are doing exactly what he recommended.
I don't remember seeing Biden doin this:
Architect of Victory -- [Matel - in Iraq]
We went up to Al Qaim to meet and talk with General Petraeus. Architect of victory – that is what they called General George C. Marshall in World War II. The U.S. victory over the AQI and the insurgency in Iraq had many contributors, but David Petraeus was the architect who put it together. Of course, he would never call himself that. When asked whether the U.S. had defeated Al Qaeda in Iraq, General Petraeus told the media, "You will not find any military leader who will say this ... all we can say is al Qaeda is still dangerous."
Husaybah -- [Matel - in Iraq]
After meeting with the troops and giving out some coins, General Petraeus flew off to his next appointment. We went into the city of Husaybah for a market walk. The Mayor wanted to go along. I am not sure if he adds value or subtracts. The mayor is apparently popular. He spoke easily with his constituents and they spoke to him about their problems and hopes. While I enjoyed watching a good Iraqi politician in action, I tried to get away a bit and talk to citizens outside the glow of the leading local politician.
Husaybah is obviously doing okay. In addition to good produce in the shops, we saw lots of small appliances, clothing, rugs and even gold.
Michael discusses Russia’s Kosovo Precedent -- [Michael Totten]
Russia’s Vladimir Putin darkly hinted that his country would invade and dismember Georgia months before last month’s war in the South Caucasus region began. “We have Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and Pridnestrovie [Transnistria],” he said back in February of this year after Kosovo declared independence from Serbia, “and they say Kosovo is a special case?” Putin has a point, but only a very small one. The overwhelming majority of Kosovars want nothing more to do with Serbia just as the majorities in Georgia’s breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia want to secede. But there the similarities end.
Here's an interview with the Kashmiri Leader: 'Osama [Bin Laden] Has Come Only During the Last Few Years; People Like Me Have Been Fighting For This All Our Lives' -- [MEMRI]
Syed Ali Geelani: We Want "To Impose an Islamic [System In] Kashmir"; "Secularism Should Not Touch Our Lives"
...Ever since my release from prison on August 7, 2004, I have been spreading my message across Kashmir. I have a three-point programme. First to impose an Islamic nizam (Islamic system) [in] Kashmir. Islam should govern our lives, be it in our political thought, socio-economic plans, culture or [other…].
"The creed of socialism and secularism should not touch our lives, and we must be totally governed by the Koran and the Sunnat (precedents from Prophet Mohammad's life)."
"We Must Fight Against Anti-Islamic Forces [That Come] Under the Garb of Nationalists, Secularists, Racists, Linguistic Chauvinists, And So On" "Secondly, I have been propagating that we must fight against anti-Islamic forces. These forces come in our way under the garb of nationalists, secularists, racists, linguistic chauvinists, and so on. "Thirdly, I have been telling the youth to work for the right to self-determination which is granted to them by the United Nations. I have been drawing huge support from the youth for this as a result of which you see lakhs [1 lakh = 100,000] of people on the roads today.
"Question: In essence, Osama bin Laden's crusade to establish Islamic rule across the globe seems no different from yours.
"Syed Ali Geelani: Osama has come only during the last few years. People like me have been fighting for this all our lives. I do not want to be compared with Osama.
Supporting the Troops...
Big Noize -- [THIS WE'LL DEFEND - in Iraq]
Tongiht we all here at FOB Falcon got a special treat.
...ACDC played for almost two hours in a free concert. Those old bastards can still pump out the rock! The youngest member of the band is 53 and the oldest is 63 now.
Some polotiking...
University of Illinois Tipped Off Obama Colleague On Annenberg Records Request -- [Gateway Pundit]
Global Labor reported today that a close Obama associate was tipped off about the requests of information regarding the Chicago Annenberg Challenge (CAC) before the records were released.
Obama worked with terrorist Bill Ayers for several years leading the organization.
Nothing like a British dude that looks like they just rolled out of bed to tell Americans how to vote.
MTV Awards Host Blasts Bristol Palin & Retarded Bush-- Says If You Don't Vote For Obama You're Racist -- [Gateway Pundit]
The British actor-comedian, Russell Brand, the host of the MTV Music Video Awards, started off the night calling those Americans racist who do not vote for Barack Obama. He followed that up by saying that President Bush was retarded.
The MTV audience loved him.
It didn't bother them a bit that this foreigner just came to America to tell them how to vote and then called their current leader a retarded cowboy.
Over at Castle Argghhh!!!!, Dusty has a story you may not have heard, What was the Worst day of McCain's life and reflect
“When I started to come around, after a few seconds, I found I couldn’t move my head. I thought, ‘Oh, s**t, they broke my neck.’
“That was the worst day of my captivity.
“As soon as that thought formed in my head, I panicked and, still in that grey world between being out and being conscious, my body reflexively convulsed. It was then I could move my head.”
Why the momentary “paralysis?” The beating he received for embarrassing the guard left him bleeding from the eyes, ears, nose and mouth. The blood flowed down his face and neck as he lay unconscious on his cell’s floor, gluing his head to the concrete as it dried and coagulated. Still groggy when coming around, his momentary immobility felt like paralysis.
May update later.
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs and other sources around the world. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. Hat Tips to the Dawn Patrol are greatly appreciated.
Anbar Province Sets the Example for All of Iraq
"Life has improved in the Anbar in all aspects – economics, education, health-wise – and all the offices of the Anbar are functioning." (Ma'amoun Sami Rasheed, Press Conference, 9/3/08)
"So as the citizens of the Anbar saw the progress of the three fronts we were working on – that is, to fight al-Qaida, to build the armed forces, and the reconstruction – they started believing that the belief in democracy and freedom is the right path for us…"
Western Anbar Progress Report - [Matel - in Iraq]
...I often tell my Iraqi friends that partnership does not mean we agree on everything. We are not insulted when they express opinions at odds with ours. Sometimes they are right. In a good partnership, each party benefits from the strengths and compensates for the weaknesses of the others. If they were both identical, there would be no need for the partnership and it would produce no synergy. Partnership is what we want with the Iraqis and I think that is what we are getting.
Iraqi Security Forces Order of Battle: September 2008 update -- [LWJ - DJ Elliott]
Anbar is the eleventh province to go under Iraqi control, the 17th Division takes control of southern Baghdad, and more.
Death Tolls -- [MilBlogs]
Nearly 125 Shot Dead In Chicago Over Summer
Total Is About Double The Death Toll In Iraq
But almost exactly the same as the number killed in Afghanistan over the same period.
Police-hiring feud may have led to Diyala blast -- [Stars and Stripes]
...This week, U.S. soldiers from the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, headed to Jalula’s police station, near the emergency response force headquarters, to air theories of who they thought was behind the bombing. The incident, one of the worst attacks in Iraq in recent months, highlighted the complicated situation in northern Diyala province, where internal rivalries mix with Kurdish-Arab tension.
Iraq To Turn Abu Ghraib Into Musuem Of Saddam’s Abuses -- [Pat Dollard]
The notorious Abu Ghraib prison is getting a facelift: work to reopen the facility and construct a museum documenting Saddam Hussein’s crimes.
A large section of the 280-acre site just west of Baghdad will be converted into the museum featuring execution chamber exhibits and other displays of torture tools used by Saddam’s regime—including an iron chain used to tie prisoners together.
But Iraq has no plans to document the U.S. military abuse scandal that erupted in 2004. In all, 11 U.S. soldiers were convicted of breaking military laws and five others were disciplined.
Iraq’s deputy justice minister, Busho Ibrahim, told The Associated Press that the actions of a few American soldiers was “nothing” compared with the violence and atrocities of Saddam and his Baath party.
Day 76. Small mysteries -- [Rocinante's Burdens - in Iraq]
A minor mystery. This picture shows a small bit of pound cake from an MRE (pre-packaged field ration). It was originally offered to the starving dog shown in the previous post. After 2 days, it is still uneaten. Ants have been swarming all over this area but have not touched this "cake". Hmmmm...
AN EMAIL FROM MICHAEL YON IN AFGHANISTAN: -- [Instapundit]
"Lots of fighting here. In some areas (for instance where I have been), there is about 80% chance of getting into combat when you step off the FOB. Morale among British soldiers is very high. Even higher, I would say, than I saw in Iraq."
Death Tolls -- [MilBlogs]
Nearly 125 Shot Dead In Chicago Over Summer
Total Is About Double The Death Toll In Iraq
But almost exactly the same as the number killed in Afghanistan over the same period.
Coalition in Afghanistan Hunts Down Leaders of Deadly August Ambush -- [A Battlefield Tourist]
The US military says coalition forces have hunted down and killed at least two of the leaders of the deadly ambush, August 18, that claimed the lives of ten French paratroopers. The attack happened in Sarobi district, Kabul Province, just 40 miles from the capital itself.
U.S. Troops Crossed Border, Pakistan Says -- [WaPo]
...Pakistan filed a formal protest with the U.S. government, which had no comment on what appeared to be a new escalation of U.S. pressure on Taliban and al-Qaeda sanctuaries in Pakistan's mountainous border regions.
US Confirms Ground Forces Used in Pakistan -- [A Battlefield Tourist]
The Associated Press is reporting that US officials acknowledge that US ground forces carried out a helo-borne attack on Pakistani soil. In recent months, suspected US missle attacks have rocked the frontier but Wednesday’s attack marks a true escalation in the on terror.
Pakistan Turns On Their Taliban - [Strategy Page]
September 5, 2008: Pakistan is finally getting serious about taking down the local Taliban (the TTP, or Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan), and have hit them where it hurts the most, in the pocketbook. The government has frozen all Taliban bank accounts, at least the ones it knows about. This is a start. But
US navy ship steams into port where Russian troops stationed -- [Times Online]
A US navy flagship has steamed into a Georgian port where Russian troops are still stationed, stoking tensions once again in the tinderbox Caucasus region.
A previous trip by American warships was cancelled at the last minute a week ago amid fears that an armed stand off could erupt in the Black Sea port of Poti.
The arrival of the USS Mount Whitney came as Moscow accused Dick Cheney, the hawkish US vice-president, of stoking tensions during a visit to Tbilisi yesterday, in which he vowed to bring Georgia into the Nato alliance.
Reports In Russia On S-300 Missiles To Iran -- [MEMRI Blog]
The Iranian media are citing a Russian media report that Ruslan Pukhov, director of the Moscow-based Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies, has said that following the increase in tension between Russia and the West, it is logical for Russia to supply S-300 missiles to Iran.
Now the U.S. Is Chasing OBL to His Cave -- [Counterterrorism Blog]
The U.S. has taken the gloves are off: In a first, senior U.S. officials acknowledged that U.S. ground forces entered Pakistan to pursue high-value Al Qaeda targets, and the hunt for Osama bin Laden is moving at full speed before President Bush leaves office. "(A) small team of commandos crossed the border from Afghanistan into Pakistan to go after an al Qaida cell operating out of a village less than a mile from the border. The officials said the cell was using the village as a base to plan and conduct cross border raids into Afghanistan. The leader of the cell - whose name the officials did not release -
Undated video shows Qaeda leader reported killed -- [Reuters]
Al Qaeda issued on Friday an Internet video featuring senior group leader Mustafa Abu al-Yazid who was reported to have ...
Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb Denies Killing Civilians, Blames Algerian Government -- [MEMRI Blog]
A video message by Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, posted September 3, 2008 on Islamist websites, features an address by the group's "media relations officer Salah Abu Muhammad," who appears with his face blurred.
Report: Terror Cell Arrested In Morocco Has Network In Europe -- [MEMRI Blog]
According to sources from the Elaph website, the Fath Al-Andalus terror cell, 15 members of which were arrested this week in Morocco, is part of a larger organization connected to Al-Qaeda and with branches in Spain, Belgium, and Italy, in addition to North Africa (see "Moroccan Security Source: Arrested Terror Cell Planned To Strike U.N. Forces").
A Gov Agency more screwed up than a ..... -- [THE CI-ROLLER DUDE]
He got a letter whilst in Iraq from the Department of Homeland Stupidity...telling him that since he was "out of the country" they were suspending the citizenship process. I asked if the the government assholes understood that he was in Iraq fighting for this great country---something a lot of people who're already US citizens haven't done...and they were screwing with him.
He is now a US Citizen fixen' to go on another deployment for his country. Now, in my mind that man is a hero....oh, there's a few in this class who've deployed to Iraq at least once...one guy has been there twice and is going to Afghanistan next....
8,000 MILES In 3 Days -- [Annex B - home from Iraq]
The trip from Iraq to the front porch takes awhile. It’s a little more than 8,000 miles from my trailer to my house. To get from one to another is somewhat of a pain but the reward at the end of the road is worth it. Here’s how it goes.
Obama and Fox News: 'Tentative Truce?' -- [NewsBusters]
As Fox News prepares to interview Barack Obama tonight during prime time, TV journalist Michael Wolff details a meeting between Barack Obama, Fox News president Roger Ailes, and News Corporation president Rupert Murdoch in which the Fox execs promised to lay off the Democratic presidential candidate.
According to Wolff's telling, this was more than a mere tete-à-tete, this was a full-on diplomatic meeting (initiated at Murdoch's request), conducted only after preparation and with preconditions from the Obama campaign.
The apparent purpose? ...
Hedging your bets -- [Foreign and Domestic]
I'm not a voter from Delaware, but if I was, I would be insulted by Sen Biden's Senate campaign. I would want to walk into the voting booth knowing who my choices were.
Contrast that with Sen Obama's pick of Sen Biden. Rather than all in, or even mostly in, Joe Biden is hedging his bets to ensure a win-win scenario. Joeseph R. Biden, candidate for Vice President of the United States, is the very same Joseph R. Biden who is running reelection to the US Senate from Delaware.
So if Obama/Biden win the election, he becomes VP and by the constitution must resign his Senate seat before taking the oath of office. The vacant senate seat is filled by the governor of Delaware, Democrat Ruth Ann Minner. Thus, the senate seat stays in Democrat hands.
...If Biden is confident in his chances to be elected VP, he could demonstrate that confidence by withdrawing from the Senate reelection bid. Otherwise he is subverting the very bedrock principle of our system of government. He is asking Delaware voters to vote for him fully expecting that he will not serve in the office he is elected to. He is, in essence, running a campaign by proxy for whomever the Delaware Governor will choose.
Dear Mr. Obama
Liveblogging the McCain speech -- [CounterColumn]
...A friend just texted me. She's 27, I think. She said she had no idea of McCain's POW past until she watched the convention tonight. Same goes for another friend in the same age range, as well, who didn't know until I played her a video a couple of weeks ago. So the nattering nabobs are criticizing McCain for bringing it up again. But it's not like the media is doing a great job of communicating that remarkable biography without him and his campaign reinforcing the message.
(Need more? Dawn Patrols Archives are here.)
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs and other sources around the world. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. Hat Tips to the Dawn Patrol are greatly appreciated.
Some Parting Thoughts from Major Thomas Sadiq -- [Miserable Donuts - in Iraq]
Major Sadiq was a terrific help to me when I moved up to Baghdad and started my new position. Always hard working and friendly, he made time to help every time I asked. Now he has finished his 12 months here and is leaving us. But he left us with a parting message I thought was worth sharing
SAS kills hundreds of terrorists in 'secret war' against al-Qaeda in Iraq -- [Telegraph]
More than 3,500 insurgents have been "taken off the streets of Baghdad" by the elite British force in a series of audacious "Black Ops" over the past two years.
It is understood that while the majority of the terrorists were captured, several hundred, who were mainly members of the organisation known as "al-Qa'eda in Iraq" have been killed by the SAS.
US says troops could quit Baghdad soon -- [FT]
General David Petraeus, the top US commander in Iraq, said declining violence in Baghdad raised the possibility that American combat troops could leave the capital by next summer.
Al Anbar Security Transferred to Iraqi Control
Footage of a transfer of security authority from Multinational Force-Iraq to the Iraqi Civilian Authority (IVA) for Al Anbar Province at the Provincial Government Center. Scenes include the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding, Speeches by Gov. Ma'moon and MNF-West commanding general Maj. Gen. John Kelly and Iraqi security forces on parade.
Understanding Iraq Through Anbar's Lens -- [Threats Watch - Steve Schippert]
With Anbar Security Handed To Iraq, A Look At Iraq In Plain Terms
On Monday, control of Anbar province and responsibility for security there was handed over to Provincial Iraqi Control. This is a profoundly remarkable event, as al-Anbar province – the onetime headquarters for al-Qaeda in Iraq – was seen by many as lost due to security and political conditions on the ground. And with Anbar now handed to Iraqis to manage security, it is appropriate to take a larger look at Iraq, and one from an Anbar-centric perspective. For Anbar was...
Anbar Stands -- [Outside the Wire]
Abraham followed the road along the Euphrates river north as God commanded him.
The road followed course of the great river and its lush green farming villages. The road Abraham travelled passed through villages and cities whose names have changed or been lost to the ages.
One of those is the ancient city of Anbar. Persians, Romans and Arabs all fought battles over this ancient city.
The Roman leader Gordian died at Anbar. The Arab General Khalid wrested the city from the Persians.
Centuries later, U.S. Marines and Soldiers fought house to house in the same city. We know it now as Fallujah.
Scarsely two years ago, Al Anbar province was thought to be lost. But just yesterday, control of the province was handed over to the Iraqi government.
Profile in Courage -- [Matel -in Iraq]
...“Expert opinion” said that we had lost. Many people were calling for us to cut our losses and run out. Almost nobody believed the surge would accomplish the stated goals. The easy choice would have been to go along with that conventional wisdom. That would have meant that many of our friends in Iraq would be dead and we would suffer a resurgence of terrorism, but conventional wisdom would have accepted that as regrettable necessity.
MRAPs, Travel & Detainees -- [Matel -in Iraq]
We went to see a police station. In the jail they had some terrorists they had recently caught. I was happy to for the diligence of the local authorities. I don't understand these guys Some brag that they would gladly kill people like me along with dozens of the local children given a chance. I take no pleasure in seeing these guys in jail and I avoid going in if I can. They are mostly young, stupid guys. Some older, clever bad-guy has convinced them to do this evil thing and has ruined their lives and destroyed their futures. It is sad all around. The face of evil is not always ugly or easily identified.
Of course we have different sorts of terrorists. The really bad ones are usually foreign fighters from various other countries around the Middle East.
Some troops say Iraqis need to do more -- [Stars and Stripes]
As Iraqi security forces continue to take the lead on missions in much of the country, the U.S. military has generally — and deliberately — slipped into the background.
But at an irritable area bordering Baqouba, where there are fears that recent gains made by an Iraqi-led offensive could be lost, the opposite has happened.
Manpower issues and a perceived lack of initiative by Iraqi police have forced soldiers with Company E, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, out of Vilseck, Germany, to patrol Tahrir mainly alone.
Iraq signs Massive Oil Deal With China -- [LT Nixon Rants]
While the world was busy with Broken-Watergate, the highly sought-after first Iraqi oil contracts were signed between the Ministry of Oil and the PRC to develop.
Ramadan Restrictions; "Don't Feed The Bears" -- [Zen Traveler - in Iraq]
We're in the month of Ramadan now and its interesting to watch the Iraqis as they struggle with the various restrictions, most notably the practice of fasting. While observing the holy month Muslims are not permitted to eat during the daylight hours. They wake before dawn, eat, pray and then thats it for food until evening prayers. Honestly, very few of the people that I work with faithfully keep to the strict regime throughout the entire month, but they all give it a good try.
It's hot -- [Fobbits need ice cream too - in Iraq]
I wrote this after smoking a Monte Cristo Robusto (Cuban)
It's August and I imagine it's hot in Iraq to all those that live in Iraq (where we actually usually live) but in Kuwait it's absolutely blazing.
...Today is the first day of Ramadan. We are told not to tease Muslims (we don't usually encounter any outside of TCNs), or to eat in front of any Iraqis. I normally respect Muslims for their intense devotion to their faith, but telling me I can't eat in front of someone is bullshit. We can't have porn or booze and now we can't eat near Iraqis? It's okay for the chow hall to serve pork though, and to make the TCNs prepare, cook and serve it. Whatever. Happy Ramadan, please don't blow me up in a hunger-pain craze.
Oh, and speaking of porn. The guy that admitted to having porn got busted from E4-E1, got sent home and was told he would not be getting discharged, then got a general discharge anyways.
The Thieves Game -- [Strategy Page]
Last month, 830 Iraqi civilians were killed or wounded by terrorist activity. That's an 80 percent reduction from last year. But there are still thousands of Iraqis who are at war with their countrymen, and are willing to kill for the cause (which could be anything from the return of Saddam's Baath Party to power, to the establishment of a Sunni or Shia religious dictatorship.) That murderous mentality is not unique to this time or place, it is endemic.
Day 73. On Patrol with Roci -- [Rocinante's Burdens - in Iraq]
For those of you who have not been here, here is what it is like on a combat patrol in Iraq today. You may have to cover your ears during the noisy combat parts and don't be ashamed if you have to turn your head away when it gets bloody. Not everyone can watch that much gore.
Stuff -- [Two Brothers, Two Countries, One Army - SGT WORMY - in Iraq]
I try to put things in perspective and think "that could be me"....I don't let it get me down, it just brings me back to a harsh harsh reality of this war we are fighting. I know I blab on about things I've seen over here, but I do that in an effort to try to get others to see that some pretty bad shit is happening over here. Soldiers are hurting....lives are changing...families are affected. It blows my mind about what I see on CNN, Foxnews, and MSNBC....there have been a few times where I see a glitch of something that happened over here...and that's about all you get, a glitch. Of course, I understand that the military can't give out details. But once in a while, once in a while maybe just a little more light should be shed on the situation so fellow Americans can try to get a grip on what's going on over here. And it's usually funny how things get to you about three days after it happens...
Afghan dam triumph as 1,600 British troops carry out most daring raid 'since Second World War' -- [Daily Mail]
British troops used a mixture of bribery, trickery and bombs to mount one the most daring operations since the Second World War.
In an extraordinary operation, a huge force was responsible for driving a massive hydroelectric turbine through the heart of Helmand - so engineers can complete Afghanistan's biggest reconstruction project.
British soldiers kill 200 Taliban in Afghan dam operation -- [Telegraph]
A major secret British operation to boost the economy in Afghanistan's Helmand province has been completed after a force of 5,000 troops fought for a week to drive a huge dam turbine through Taliban lines.
Repairing Orphanage
Co. commander briefs General Petraeus on Afghan operations -- [Combined Joint Task Force - 101 - in Afghanistan]
BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan — Eight company commanders recently met with the Multi-National Force – Iraq commanding general on Bagram Air Field and discussed operations in the Regional Command-East area of operations. Capt. Chris McLaud,
I'm back -- [Cheese's Milblog - in Afghaistan]
My platoon does all of the CMA (civilian medical assessment?) missions in the area. We did the first one and apparently did a good enough job to warrant making it one of our permanent missions. A CMA is a humanitarian mission where we bring doctors and medics to a certain area and treat locals. They're a different style of mission because of all the coordination that must be done among foreign military, Afghan forces, etc. Granted, they take all day, but it's better than sitting at Bagram all day while KBR guys buy Pizza Hut and Popeye's.
New York National Guard troops aid Afghan villagers -- [Staying in Touch - in Afghanistan]
Members of Company C 2nd Squadron 101st Cavalry of the New York Army National Guard from Camp Blackhorse recently teamed with Afghan National Army soldiers from 4th Kandak, 2nd Brigade 201st Corp for a humanitarian assistance mission.
And So It Begins...Again... -- [Embrace The Suck - heading to Afghanistan]
...Then he gave us our little motivational beginning of deployment speech. Holding true to form, our commander is about as inspiring and motivational as a good case of herpes. So he went through most of it without me being able to pick out anything to really get in a huff about, so I was a bit disappointed but then it happened. He stated that we should never forget our families. (Alright, no problem there) But we should put them in the back of our minds in order to focus on the mission. (No problem, you got it Sir.) Then he said, "Because if you don't put them out of your mind and focus on the mission, you might never see them again." (Alright, Now I've got an issue.)
Everyone's families were still there. They were all standing off in the wings and waiting for their chance to see us off properly, and they heard every word of what he was saying. Oh yeah, that is what someone's mother really needs to hear.
Pakistanis claim US helicopter-borne forces assaulted village in South Waziristan -- [LWJ - Bill Roggio]
Unconfirmed reports from Pakistan indicate fifteen were killed after "American and Afghan soldiers" conducted a search and destroy operation in the Taliban-controlled tribal agency.
Saudi al Qaeda commander killed in Afghan clash -- [LWJ - Matt Dupee]
An al Qaeda spokesman claims US and Afghan forces killed a senior field commander in southwestern Afghanistan. Commander Abu Gharib al Makki was killed in one of two clashes reported in Farah province over the last 48-hours.
Pakistan: We Lost The Chance To Nab Ayman Al-Zawahiri But His Wife Was Killed -- [MEMRI Blog]
Rahman Malik, the Interior Security Adviser to the Pakistani Prime Minister, has said that an opportunity to nab Al-Qaeda’s Deputy Leader Ayman Al-Zawahiri was lost but his wife was killed during a military action, the Urdu-language newspaper Roznama Nawa-i-Waqt reported.
Gunmen fired at MPs protecting supplies in Louisiana -- [USA Today]
Gov. Bobby Jindal says members of the National Guard came under fire this morning in Ville Platte, La.
"Sometime after midnight, somewhere between two and three criminals, we believe they were attempting to loot those supplies, actually opened fire," he says. "They fired about five or six shots at the National Guardsmen.
Coast Guard Post Gustav New Orleans Overflight
In this video released by the U.S. Coast Guard, helicopter crews from Air Station New Orleans fly over the greater New Orleans area to assess impact to the infrastructure after Hurricane Gustav passed...
Depressing News -- [Strategy Page]
September 2, 2008 - Iran: The governments growing closeness with leftist Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez had led to hundreds of Iranian intelligence and special warfare (terrorism) operatives being dispatched to South America. It was only a decade ago that such Iranian operations were shut down there, in the wake of terror attacks against Jews in Argentina.
EU High Court Invalidates Sanctions Against Al Qaeda -- [Counterterrorism Blog]
In a devastating blow to existing international financial sanctions against terrorist groups, the EU's highest court has today overturned the sanctions program imposed by the European Union on Osama bin Laden, Al-Qaeda and the Taliban. The ruling by the European Court of Justice annulled the EU's freezing of the funds of Yassin al-Kadi, a Saudi businessman who has been on terrorist financier black-lists since his listing as a "Specially Designated Global Terrorist" by the U.S. Treasury in October 2001.
NEFA Foundation Report: "Anatomy of a Modern Homegrown Terror Cell: Aabid Khan et al." (Operation Praline) -- [Counterterrorism Blog]
NEFA Foundation has published a new report that I have written, titled "Anatomy of a Modern Homegrown Terror Cell." The report focuses on the recent criminal trial of Aabid Hussain Khan at the Blackfriars Crown Court in London, as told through the actual evidence seized by U.K. authorities and the detailed testimony of Khan himself. According to Karen Jones, the reviewing lawyer in the case from the U.K. Crown Prosecution Service, "The evidence showed Khan was a committed and active supporter of Al-Qaida ideology…
Senior al Qaeda operative killed in Somalia -- [LWJ - Bill Roggio]
Al Qaeda has reported one of its senior operatives in eastern Africa was killed during fighting in Somalia more than one year ago. Saleh Ali Saleh Nabhan, a senior al Qaeda operative in eastern Africa, announced the death of Abu Talha al Sudani while discussing the May 1 airstrike that killed Aden Hashi Ayro, the leader of Shabab in Somalia.
"And before him [Ayro], more than a year ago, our leader was martyred, the leader of the mujahideen in Somalia, Abu Talha al Sudani, while he was leading one of the battalions of the mujahideen,” according to a translation provided by Nick Grace. “And this is the first time that we make it public." Grace monitors al Qaeda and other jihadi forums.
Teaming up with Soldiers' Angels -- [Michael Yon - in Afghanistan]
Over the last nearly four years, I've watched in awe as our men and women in uniform changed the course of history. They have taken defeat and disaster and given us—and the Iraqi people—victory and hope. Their sacrifices for our country are immeasurable. Now, with your help, we can show our service members that a growing number of Americans do understand and appreciate their sacrifices and accomplishments.
I'm partnering with Soldiers’ Angels to give copies of my book, Moment of Truth in Iraq, to the very soldiers still stationed there. Soldiers’ Angels is an extraordinary organization. Among many other activities in support of America’s military men and women and their families, Soldiers’ Angels sends thousands of care packages to deployed personnel every month. Moment of Truth in Iraq will now be included in as many of those packages as possible.
Governor Palin Visits Troops in Kuwait
Cheers for Heroes -- [Blackfive]
First, there's a Chicago Hero that some of you know about and the rest should meet...SPC Sergio Lopez (and CJ wrote about him here and here - CJ's A Soldier's Perspective is under maintenance right now so check back later).
Quaker tries to outmaneuver military recruiters -- [CNN]
Sally Ferrell bounded from the truck and grabbed a posterboard sign that read: "War is not the Answer."
...For three years, Ferrell has asked permission to distribute pamphlets and other materials that warn students to think twice before joining the military. But the school superintendent has stopped her, calling her activities unpatriotic. The American Civil Liberties Union, calling it a First Amendment issue, has threatened to sue.
"The students need to know there are alternatives to the military," said Ferrell, a Quaker. "But they're not getting the other side."
Hey guys, you can have Anbar back now -- [Abu Muqawama]
Charlie tries to walk the fine line between defeatist, triumphalist, and realist in Iraq. (When she's really in a pinch she claims to be an academic and make some useless, but intriguing, pedantive distiction about what's going on there.) But, to her mind, handing over Anbar province to the Iraqis is a BFD. And while she's well aware the peace there is fragile, it was also unimaginable two years ago.
That said, she's pretty sure we still don't have a good grasp as to the underlying causes of that peace...nor of the Anbar Awakening upon which it rests.
Fox News Attacks National Guard -- [VA Mortgage Co]
Fox news should be ashamed of the comments made by your Paul Gigot on the Journal Editorial show on August 30, 2008. During a conversation regarding the VP selection of Sarah Palin by John McCain, the subject of her qualifications came up…one of the guests stated that she was highly qualified and that she was the Commander of the National Guard in Alaska……Paul Gigot’s response was ” I don’t think she would want to use that, afterall the National Guard is not exactly the 82nd Airborne!!!”
Evidently Mr. Paul Gigot has not been informed about the number of National Guard men and women from every state in the union that have served numerous tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, the number that are still deployed and ...
Media's Palin Derangement Syndrome: Suddenly, Old Media Thinks They are DNA Technicians -- [NewsBusters]
John McCain's campaign spokesman is reporting that the media has deluged the campaign with demands that it provide DNA samples to "prove" that baby Trig is the true offspring of vice presidential candidate Governor Sarah Palin. Imagine the effrontery of this demand? Imagine the ignorance and outrageousness of this attack that Governor Palin is receiving at the hands of the Old Media?
A Shameful Week for the Press -- [The Corner - Yuval Levin]
I have always tended to think that conservative complaints about the media are a little exaggerated. There are occasionally obvious instances of bias and clear examples of a double standard, but most reporters don’t want to fall into those and some conservatives are surely too sensitive to them. But this week has changed my view. I have never seen, and I admit that I could never have imagined, such shameful, out-of-control, frenzied, angry, condescending, and pathetic journalistic malpractice. The ignorant assault on Palin’s accomplishments and experience, the breathless careless airing of deranged rumors about her private life, the staggeringly indecent mistreatment of her teenage daughter in a difficult time, the ill-informed piling on about the vetting process, the self-intensifying circle of tisking nodding heads utterly detached from a straightforward political event, have been amazing and eye-opening.
DeLay to media: "Keep it up" -- [Politico]
Former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay has a message to reporters scrutinizing John McCain's selection of Sarah Palin: "Please, media, keep it up."
DeLay, speaking on a Politico/Yahoo/Pioneer Press panel in St. Paul on Wednesday morning, said the tough coverage has done something for McCain that the maverick could never do with his own party.
"The media has done more for John McCain in the last two days than he’s done for himself in the last year and a half," DeLay said.
"Trashing her is waking up the sleeping giant, and the sleeping giant is Republican women," he claimed.
The Media Descend to a New Low -- [Weekly Standard]
Time's Mark Halperin has posted an advance copy of the cover of US Weekly magazinIt is apparent that he has no knowlege of the training or dedication of each and every member of the National Guard e, the tabloid published by Rolling Stone's Jann Wenner. That cover shows a smiling Sarah Palin, holding her youngest son Trig. The screaming headline: "Babies, Lies and Scandal: John McCain's Vice President."
Wenner has contributed $5300 to Obama's campaign since 2007.
John Voight Speaks at Vets for Freedom (Video)-- [Atlas Shrugs]
I have been listening to people speak all day and I will tell you unequivocally that Voight's remarks were the clearest, most moving, brilliant in its simplicity. He has been a supporter of the vets for decades. He is such a mensch and the vets loved him! What a case he made for Mccain, Palin, and .... America.
He was moved to tears as was I.
Biden's Loyalty — to McCain? -- [The Corner - Mark Hemingway]
Joe Biden made this very gracious statement yesterday:
"He is my good friend," said Sen. Biden, D-Del., of Sen. McCain, R-Ariz., speaking Tuesday in West Palm Beach, Florida. "We go back 33 years. If John McCain picked up - I get in trouble for saying this with some real strong Obama supporters, but you gotta - it is what it is. If John McCain picked up the phone today and said, 'Joe, I need you to get in a plane and fly out to Missoula, I can't tell you why', I'd get in a plane and I'd go."
Figures... Obama Camp Behind Palin Smears -- [Gateway Pundit]
The Obama Campaign is now admitting to being behind the inaccurate Sarah Palin smears.
Are you really surprised?
RNC Delegates & Police Attacked-- Protesters Gassed (Photos & Video) -- [Gateway Pundit]
It was another day of young Leftists, anarchists, Obama supporters, and hooligans attacking the delegates and police and getting gassed in the face in return.
First-- Here is a quick video of the protesters getting teargassed and wondering why?
These photos were from yesterday's attacks: ...
RNC Protesters - Surround and Attempt to Assault Lone Officer - Forced to Retreat
Obama Supporter Threatens Race War If McCain Wins
Who Vetted Obama? -- [FSM - Cliff Kincaid]
Why is it that an FBI background check is something that the presidential nominee of the Democrat Party has not been forced to undergo but whether the FBI investigated Palin is now becoming a controversy?
(Need more? Dawn Patrols Archives are here.)
Afghan dam triumph as 1,600 British troops carry out most daring raid 'since Second World War'
British troops used a mixture of bribery, trickery and bombs to mount one the most daring operations since the Second World War.In an extraordinary operation, a huge force was responsible for driving a massive hydroelectric turbine through the heart of Helmand - so engineers can complete Afghanistan's biggest reconstruction project.
It was the largest operation British forces have mounted in Afghanistan since the early 1900s, and it will let the Americans finish a project they started more than 50 years ago.
At least 1,600 troops were involved in clearing the route and guarding a 200 vehicle convoy that delivered more than 100 tons of turbine to the Kajaki dam on Monday.
They were backed by two US aircraft carriers worth of fighter jets, on constant standby off the Pakistani coast.The hydroelectric power station, in northern Helmand, has potential to supply most of southern Afghanistan with energy.
But US-led engineers have been unable to get a new turbine into the power station because the area is surrounded by thousands of Taliban fighters.
<...>
Tricking the Taliban
Their first step was to trick the Taliban into thinking they would use the 611.
As hundreds of troops helicoptered into Kajaki, soldiers further down the valley in Sangin began clearing the road as if they were expecting a convoy.
'We tried to look at what they were expecting - and there's only one road,' said Lt Col Williams. 'We were just trying to play to their preconceived ideas.'
More here
US probe finds fewer Afghan deaths than UN claimed
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — A U.S. investigation into U.N. and Afghan allegations that dozens of civilians were killed in fighting around a village found Tuesday that seven of the dead were civilians.An Afghan government commission concluded that 90 civilians were killed in the Aug. 22 fighting in Azizabad — a claim backed by a preliminary U.N. report. The U.S. report Tuesday said 30 to 35 of those killed were Taliban fighters.
The civilian death claims in Azizabad has caused new friction between President Hamid Karzai and his Western supporters. Karzai has long castigated Western military commanders over civilian deaths resulting from their raids.
The U.S. report said American and Afghan forces began taking fire from militants as the forces approached Azizabad in the early hours of Aug. 22. The incoming fire "justified use of well-aimed small-arms fire and close air support to defend the combined force," the report said.
The U.S. said its range in casualty numbers was determined by observation of enemy movements during the engagement and on-site observations immediately after the battle. It said a known Taliban commander, Mullah Siddiq, and five to seven civilians were among the dead. Two civilians were wounded. Five Taliban were detained, the report said.
Alaska soldiers leave for Afghanistan
Fifteen Alaska Army National Guard members are deploying to Afghanistan for one year to embed with the Afghan National Army, according to the guard. They are scheduled to leave Alaska today and train for two months at Fort Riley, Kan., before getting to Afghanistan, the guard said.The deployed soldiers live in Anchorage, Eagle River, Chugiak, Wasilla, Palmer, Kenai and Dillingham. In April 2007, another group from the Alaska Army National Guard deployed to embed with the Afghanistan army for a one-year stint, the guard said.
Music unites, entertains audience in Seddah :
The partnership between the people of Seddah and the Soldiers of 2nd Platoon, C Company 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division made this celebration possible."Ten months ago, we would have never even considered asking the band to come down to Seddah City Park to put on a community concert," said Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Williams, 2nd platoon leader.
Today, the scene in Seddah has changed. Through the persistent work of 2nd platoon and the Seddah City Council, the citizens of were able to enjoy a celebration that will not soon be forgotten.
“They were obviously happy we were there, coming up to us and welcoming us,” said Knodt. “You could tell everyone was in a great mood – everyone was happy; everyone was dancing: men, women and children, all out together at night, for one of the first times ever in this community.”
However, the celebration was bittersweet for the Soldiers of 2nd platoon. Five months ago, they lost a valuable member of their team. Sgt. Jevon K. Jordan, 32, of Norfolk, Vir., died March 29 from wounds suffered after his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device six days earlier in Abu Jassim, Iraq.
"It really tested our team. We were emotionally defeated and could have very easily given up," said Williams.
Because of the platoon did not give up, their partnership with the citizens of Seddah and surrounding communities has produced improved governance, economic recovery, and a secure community, all of which set the stage for the celebration.
Some troops say Iraqis need to do more
TAHRIR, Iraq — As Iraqi security forces continue to take the lead on missions in much of the country, the U.S. military has generally — and deliberately — slipped into the background.But at an irritable area bordering Baqouba, where there are fears that recent gains made by an Iraqi-led offensive could be lost, the opposite has happened.
Manpower issues and a perceived lack of initiative by Iraqi police have forced soldiers with Company E, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, out of Vilseck, Germany, to patrol Tahrir mainly alone.
U.S. soldiers conduct daily missions in the town to keep the peace and deter enemies from trickling back. Local Iraqi police tend to hold down checkpoints at safer locations on the outskirts, soldiers say."It is frustrating," said Capt. Solon Webb, company commander, adding he has to focus more time spreading out his forces than targeting high-value targets.
Intelligence gathering has also been a difficult process with the scarce Iraqi police, whose police chief is a major sitting in a colonel slot, a two rank difference, he said.
"It’s not as free flowing," said Webb, 32, of Walnut Creek, Calif. "I still get the same amount but I have to work twice as hard to get it."
Iraqi police Maj. Sa’ad, the police chief of Tahrir, said he has only 122 policemen and needs twice that number to cover his jurisdiction.
"Tahrir is a big area. We need more IPs," Sa’ad said through a translator. "I need 250 to be ready to control this area."
He’s working on bringing more into his force, he said.
Sa’ad also denied that his policemen were avoiding the U.S. soldiers. "We always join with coalition forces and cooperate with them," he said. "If they need anything we help them."
Last week, soldiers held a knock-and-search raid in a troublesome sector of Tahrir. In the searches, which they call "block parties," soldiers asked Iraqis of any suspicious activity in the area and then snooped around the homes.
Soldiers with E Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, enter an Iraqi home during a knock-and-search raid in Tahrir. Second Lt. Richard Faille, 23 of Beverly, Mass., led his platoon of soldiers in the searches without police support despite inviting them.
Though he and his soldiers would prefer to do operations alone, their main mission is to bolster the Iraqi security forces so U.S. troops can leave the country, he said.
"They’re difficult to work with but it’s necessary," Faille said of the Iraqi police.
A platoon leader with E Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, asks an Iraqi man questions on security in Tahrir on Thursday. The mission was intended to be a joint effort with Iraqi police, but none showed up.
"We try to give them support and confidence," a hard thing to do when they don’t show up for joint missions, he added.Many of the Iraqi police officers in town are Muslim and will be fasting during Ramadan, which begins Tuesday, said Webb, who predicted that fewer will show up for work.
In June, violence surged in Tahrir with suicide bombings, shootings and roadside bombs. The largely Sunni town, next to Diyala province’s governance center and its Iraqi police headquarters in Baqouba, became a popular hangout for insurgents.
"It’s an area where people love to prove a point," Webb said.
Iraqi security forces led an offensive starting in late July that cleared the area and got rid of U.S.-funded "Sons of Iraq" fighters. The city of roughly 75,000 residents was then left to U.S. soldiers and a limited supply of Iraqi police.
"I fear if we keep it sparse, the next couple of months could see an increase of enemy activity," Faille said. He said he has heard plans to boost the town’s Iraqi police numbers in the near future.
With or without the Iraqi police, Webb vows not to let the town fall into enemy’s hands.
"We won’t let it happen," he said. "We’re not going to give up this fight."
