A Win With Costs...

U.S. troops from 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment burn a car they suspect was rigged with explosives.

(Photo: Jehad Nga for The New York Times)

Evening...

A late start tonight...but I think you would agree my priorities are spot on - I had a wonderful dinner and night out with my lovely bride...

Before we get to tonight's focus, I would encourage you to take a look back at my blog Counting to Ten and the comments that have been posted. I am always interested to hear what you think as we continue on this journey. The comments on the Rolling Stone article The Myth of the Surge, are quite insightful...don't you think? Have you read the article? If so, share your views...

Also, thanks to a tipper from Ms. Marti, I added SPC Kevin Mowl to our Fallen Angel Wall on the blog. SPC Mowl, 22, of Pittsford, N.Y., was injured by an IED attack in Baghdad last August and was receiving treatment for his injuries at Bethesda. He passed away on 25 February 2008 after a long journey down the road of recovery. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (SBCT) based at Ft. Lewis, WA.

To the family and loved ones of SPC Mowl, we will remember his courage and sacrifice...

Tonight's focus...

3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment is featured in a blog by the Baghdad Bureau, New York Times. There are a series of photos below and a video that shows the 3-2 SCR finding a bomb factory in Diyala, Iraq. The 3-2 has been in some nasty engagements during their time in Iraq...talk about combat seasoned warriors...

As a heads-up...towards the end of the video, LTC Coffey, Commander, 3-2 SCR, talks about the loss of six of his men on 9 January 2008 in Sinsil, Iraq. This part of the video may be tough to watch for some as it shows the deadly results from that horrible day in January.

U.S. troops search for insurgents in northern Diyala River Valley. > More

(Photo: Jehad Nga for The New York Times)

By Stephen Farrell, New York Times

DIYALA PROVINCE, Iraq - “Tell them we are staying,” ordered Lt. Col. Rod Coffey, nodding toward the Iraqis clustered nervously in the driveway beside his armored Stryker vehicle.

“Inshallah,” came the villagers’ reply, an Arabic expression meaning “God willing.”

Their wariness was understandable. The Americans had arrived in the northern Diyala River Valley in force in mid-January, during the opening phase of an operation to clear Al Qaeda in Mesopotamia from one of its local strongholds in Diyala Province.

Iraqi villagers had seen government forces arrive before, only to have their areas slide back under insurgent control when they left.

This time is different, the Americans are insisting.

“Our biggest message is that we are coming in with the Iraqi Army, with the Iraqi Police, and we are staying and providing security, and that’s something they haven’t seen before. But until they see it they are not going to believe it,” said Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, the American commander in northern Iraq, as he toured villages early in the deployment.

Only seven months earlier, Americans had stormed into Baquba, the capital of Diyala Province. They secured and held the city, but allowed some insurgents to escape into the surrounding countryside, where they continued to torture, kidnap and murder.

Bashar, a college teacher who moved to Baghdad a year ago to escape the clashes, said that the American-financed groups of Sunni men who now help secure Baquba rarely trouble her or other civilians during her weekly visits home.

However, she said, people do suspect these former Sunni insurgents of carrying out revenge attacks on Shiite militias, who inevitably retaliate. And outside the city she feels much less safe.

“There is terrorism still there, even now,” she said. “The general situation in Baquba is good, but the borders of Diyala are not safe.”

After the first few hours of the latest operation in the northern Diyala River Valley, which lies a few miles north of Baquba, most of the leaders of Al Qaeda in Mesopotamia had, once again, escaped.

But American officers argue that their presence, reinforced by Iraqi Army units, will now deprive the extremists of a crucial base. Pointing to a 75 percent fall in attacks from June 2007 to January 2008 across Diyala as a whole, and 85 percent within Baquba over the same period, they say the insurgents will now be further crippled by the loss of a safe haven to manufacture car bombs to send into nearby Baghdad.

“The real victory here is not killing 10, 20 or 30 insurgents; it is that this population here is separated from them,” said Colonel Coffey, commander of the Third Squadron, Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment, part of the Fourth Stryker Brigade Combat Team.

“The Iraqi provincial government is able to operate in here again. That is the real permanent win.” It has been a win with costs.

Moving through the villages, American forces have found evidence of Al Qaeda in Mesopotamia’s weapons factories, training camps and weapons caches.

They also lost six American soldiers and an Iraqi interpreter in a single explosion, at the start of their mission here. It happened Jan. 9, after their patrol walked into a house rigged to blow up in the village of Sinsil.

The compound had been cleared of explosives two weeks earlier, commanders said. But villagers did not tell them that insurgents had sneaked back in and booby-trapped it again.

--------------------------

I love you Chris...be encouraged and stay with it son. We are praying for you and the entire 2nd SCR.

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

CSI Baghdad...

Evening...

Not much news tonight on the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. No new photos...just a quick article on work by Eagle Company, 2-2 SCR in the Rashid District.

If you have forgotten how difficult an environment our warriors are working in this article will be a reminder...

Hmmmm, I wonder if our guys ever thought they would be working CSI Baghdad prior to this deployment? Regardless, I am constantly impressed with their ability to be creative, adjust to the task at hand and overcome...oh, and finish the job.

Though not pretty, these are the kind of stories that keep me optimistic about the mission the 2nd SCR is performing. What are your thoughts?

Tip of the hat to Eagle Company, 2-2 SCR!

By Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division - Baghdad soldiers questioned a “person of interest” Feb. 25, after a Sons of Iraq leader and his son were found murdered in the Mechanix neighborhood of Rashid District Feb. 24.

Following a report of the murders, soldiers of Company E, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, found the bodies of the local SOI leader and his son in the SOI headquarters building in Mechanix. The victims had their hands tied behind their backs and had multiple gunshot wounds.

After pursuing a trail of evidence and receiving tips from several Iraqi civilian sources, MND-B soldiers detained a person of interest for questioning in connection to the murders. The suspect was transferred to the 7/2 national police brigade headquarters for further questioning.

“Our condolences go out to the family of these men who died making Baghdad and Iraq a more secure place for its people,” said Maj. Kirk Luedeke, Task Force Dragon spokesman. “We will continue to seek out those responsible for these murders and bring them to justice.”

--------------------------

Chris, I love you son. I remember your sacrifice and I am so very proud of you...

v/r,
- Collabman

Fallen Angel...

For the past six months, I had tried to convince myself that a fallen angel blog would get easier to write over time. Wouldn't it? The tears would disappear...the pain would not be as intense...the heartache would be short-lived. Anyone?

I was wrong...

I had seen the news alert a few days ago indicating a Multi-National Division-Baghdad soldier had been killed by small arms fire. As I always do...I quietly said to no one in particular...please, not another warrior from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. We have had our share...paid the price. How much blood is enough? The last time it was six of our finest, KIA. No way - not again.

I was wrong...

It's easy to blog about markets opening and schools being renovated in Baghdad. It's easy to write about Iraqi children, smiling as they receive new school supplies. It's easy to count to ten over an article from Rolling Stone or get frustrated with folks here in the U.S. who seem to have forgotten that we have men and women in harms way, every day. It's easy to think the risk has subsided and we won't suffer any additional losses...

I was wrong...

Make no mistake...the pain of a fallen angel still cuts like a knife...my heart still aches for the family and their loved ones...and my resolve to stay in the fight and provide the best support I can for Chris and the 2nd SCR is still unwavering.

Please, spend some time with the announcement below. Even more importantly, lift the Perez family up in your prayers tonight...they are hurting beyond words...

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

Spc. Orlando A. Perez, 23, of Houston, TX, died Feb. 24 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from small arms fire during dismounted operations. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Vilseck, Germany.

The Company F, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry soldier will be honored at a memorial ceremony at Rose Barracks chapel in Vilseck on Friday, starting at 11 a.m., Joint Multinational Training Command officials said.

These wounds just don't seem to heal...and this is more difficult than I ever imagined.

I wished I had known...

---------------------------------------------

Chris, I love you son - be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Kick a Lot of Dirt...

Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment on patrol in a Baghdad neighborhood. (CDS Photos. Inc.)

Evening...

For those who commented or sent me a note on the Rolling Stone article, thanks! I appreciate your insight, thoughts and perspective.

A number of news stories about the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment on the wire over the past 48 hours. Plus, more photos from CDS Photos, Inc. on Chris' unit - Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR. I will share them after we catch up on the latest news...

First, a hot link to a story on work performed by the 2-2 SCR:

Suspected Special Groups criminal cell leader arrested in Abu T’shir

Below is an interesting article on 1st Platoon, Battery B, Fires Squadron, 2nd SCR. Here are the words that characterize the leadership style of Big Dawg 17...

• Tough, but fair
• Determined
• Stands by his word and commitments
• Dedicated

Read the article and tell me what you see...this is the type of leadership that saves lives...

Enjoy...

2nd Stryker Cav. Regt. PAO, MND-B

BAGHDAD - His call sign is Big Dawg 17, but you might as well call him "Bloodhound 17" after he and his 30-man platoon sniffed out a total of 16 buried ammunition and weapons caches over a 10-week period.

Sgt. 1st Class Connell, 40, a native of Polson, Mont., has the reputation of being tough, but fair, on his men. He is on his fifth consecutive year as a platoon sergeant, and he runs his platoon one way - his.

Connell is currently assigned to 1st Platoon, Battery B, Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Multi-National Division - Baghdad. His current tour of duty in Iraq marks his second stint, and he barks out orders like a drill sergeant.

"Take Bravo 17 (an up-armored humvee) down to maintenance and get it fixed," he bellowed, "It blew cherry juice all over Route Lincoln."

Sgt 1st Class Shawn Connell, a native of Polson, Mont., inspects an Iraqi checkpoint while patrolling with his team Feb. 14.

For his Soldiers, his instructions are well understood as they hurry to follow his guidance.

"The man is determined, said Spc. Ronald Butler, who hails from Bennett, Iowa. "I'll just leave it at that."

At the beginning of December, his platoon took over an area northwest of Baghdad in what used to be an al Qaeda stronghold that historically was a prime spot for hidden munitions and homemade explosives.

After a few days of searching, his platoon observed suspicious holes near an abandoned building. Four days later, the Soldiers seized munitions from two finds. In the first seizure, the captured a 2.75-inch rocket with 450 AK-47 rounds and 150 heavy machine gun rounds. At the second site, they nabbed four tank rounds.

By the time Christmas rolled around approximately two months later, the platoon had sniffed out a total of 16 caches, including one on Christmas Day.

Sgt 1st Class Shawn Connell, a native of Polson, Mont., and a fellow Soldier from his platoon dig for a weapons cache near a destroyed house.

"I had to shell out $150 dollars to buy the platoon pizza," said Connell reflecting on his platoon's expensive find. "I promised them (his platoon) if they found a cache on Christmas, they'd get pizza from me."

Maj. Tim Hunt asked Connell how it was that he and his platoon were so successful in finding the illegal munitions and weapons, to which Connell replied in his typical bluntness: "Sir, we just kick a lot of dirt."

Hunt is from Dupont, Wash., and serves as the squadron's executive officer.

Connell enlisted with the National Guard in January 1987 and is an artilleryman by trade. Four years later, he joined the active-duty ranks. He said he has spent the majority of his 21 years career behind the breech of a cannon, launching 100-pound projectiles into impact areas many miles away from his position.

The war in Iraq changed all of that for him - and many others. His first deployment was in northern Iraq, he said, and most of his time was spent raiding houses and looking for suspected terrorists - a duty formerly thought of as a job specifically for an infantryman. It was valued experience he carried through with him for his current tour.

"I'm amazed at how knowledgeable he is of the area," said Spc. Matthew Pawlikowski, a native of Garfield, N.J., who serves as the platoon's armorer.

The platoon's largest cache to date was found in early February, the day after a car bomb exploded under a local sheik. His platoon took immediate action after receiving a tip. After two hours of searching, Connell was the one who found six 120mm mortar rounds and a complete 120mm mortar system buried underneath a staircase.

Another hour of searching yielded the discovery of a buried water tank filled with more than 4,000 pounds of munitions that included rocket-propelled grenades, grenades, detonation cord and mortars. An explosive ordnance disposal team was called in to destroy the seized cache.

As to what his plans are for when the deployment is over, he said "I'll spend time with my newborn son."

He also said he hopes to get an assignment with the University of Montana, where he would relish the opportunity to serve an assistant instructor for the Reserve Officer's Training Corps program so he can pass his knowledge to the Army's next batch of fresh, young Second Lieutenants and, of course, to teach them "to kick a lot of dirt."

--------------------------

I'll close with some photos of Chris' unit as they operate in the Baghdad area...

Soldiers from the 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR ready for patrol inside a stryker vehicle.
(CDS Photos, Inc.)

2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR patrolling on the streets of Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Noel Gaulard, 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR provides security for the 2-2 SCR during a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Brandon (Robo) Robertson and SPC Robert Farnsworth, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR converse following a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Bobby Schoendorf, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR snaps a photo in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Harris, 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR is arms wide open during his photo op in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Chris Stevenson, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR frowns in the mud in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Brandon (Robo) Robertson (Left) and SPC Chris Stevenson, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR have way too much time on their hands following a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq.
(CDS Photos, Inc.)

--------------------------

Chris, we love you and the photos of you and your teammates. We are humbled by all of your sacrifices and commitment to doing the right thing...

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Counting to Ten...

Photo: Danfung Dennis/WPN

The American forces responsible for overseeing "volunteer" militias like Osama's have no illusions about their loyalty. "The only reason anything works or anybody deals with us is because we give them money," says a young Army intelligence officer. The 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, which patrols Osama's territory, is handing out $32 million to Iraqis in the district, including $6 million to build the towering walls that, in the words of one U.S. officer, serve only to "make Iraqis more divided than they already are."
(Nir Rosen, Rolling Stone)

Evening...

Did the snippet above catch your eye? It did mine...I have been expecting an article like this to appear.

I am surprised it took this long...

The info hounds tipped me to The Myth of the Surge, written by Nir Rosen and posted on the Rolling Stone web site.

Parts of it provide an interesting look at life on the street in Baghdad...while other sections paint a not-so-flattering picture of our warriors with Eagle Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and their work in the Dora District of Baghdad.

If you have taken your blood pressure medicine and are interested in reading a perspective that may be slightly biased and written with an agenda...give it a read. If not, close my blog down now and come back tomorrow...

Fair warning, you may find yourself gritting your teeth and counting to 10 by the end of page 3 of the article...

If you only want to see the pictures for this feature, which were taken by Danfung Dennis/WPN, click here.

For those who read the article I am interested in your thoughts. Use the comment portion of the blog and tell me what you think. Yes, you can comment as an anonymous user...your thoughts are what count.

Chris, I love you buddy - be encouraged and stay safe!!!

From a grateful father...

Love, Dad

60th Street...

A shop owner awaits his customers at his fruit stand on 60th Street in the east side of Baghdad's Rashid district Feb. 19. More than 50 shops have opened on 60th Street since the beginning of December. (U.S. Army photo/Cpl. Ben Washburn, 4th BCT PAO, 1st Inf. Div., MND-B)


“In November, we didn’t have one shop open on 60th Street; in December, we had seven shops – and now we’ve got about 53 shops.”
(Capt. Kevin Wynes, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2-2 SCR)

Evening...

Not much news tonight. However, the info hounds did tip an article from DVIDS on the work being performed by 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in the Rashid district.

Economic resurgence...restoration...all built on a foundation of security provided by our warriors from the 2nd SCR.

53 shops...nice!

Enjoy...

Workers from the Ministry of Electricity work to repair power lines on 60th Street in Baghdad's Rashid district Feb. 19. The Ministry of Electricity is working with coalition forces to restore lines and power to all of Hadar. (U.S. Army photo/Cpl. Ben Washburn, 4th BCT PAO, 1st Inf. Div., MND-B)

By Cpl. Ben Washburn
4th BCT PAO, 1st Inf. Div., MND-B

BAGHDAD, Iraq – During the past few months, Iraqis and Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers have been working hard to make sure the economic resurgence thrives throughout Baghdad.

The soldiers of 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Inf. Div., have been working with the Iraqi government on major restoration projects in the southeastern part of the Rashid district.

Among the projects was the effort to restore 60th Street, which involved a three-step process: provide security, clean and restore the streets, and begin the micro-grant program.

“The initial planning started with the security improvements that started back last fall,” said Capt. Kevin Wynes, a Washington, D.C., native, who serves as a civil affairs team leader assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Sqdn.

The Iraqi army took the lead in providing safety for the area by establishing three checkpoints on 60th Street in an attempt to help reassure the citizens that the ISF are committed to their security, he said.

The improved security situation contributed to the viability of the projects now under way.

“Security is the predicate for all economics,” said Maj. Patrick Garrett a Hillsborough, Ore., native, who is assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th BCT, 1st Inf. Div., and serves as a Provincial Reconstruction Team governance advisor, attached to 2nd Sqdn.

Once the streets were secure, sanitation crews were contracted by coalition forces to clean the street and ready it for business.

“Between our contracts and the Government of Iraq contributions, we were able to clean that street,” Wynes said. “The government of Iraq is definitely doing its part in rebuilding. The Ministry of Electricity has committed to repairing not only 60th Street, but all of Hadar.”

With the streets safe, clean and restored, the final step was to begin the economic revival of 60th Street.

“In November, we didn’t have one shop open on 60th Street; in December, we had seven shops – and now we’ve got about 53 shops,” Wynes said.

Shop owners have the ability to reopen their shops through the micro-grant program, which provides shop owners the monetary support they need to get started, Garrett said.

“Here’s economic assistance to get them to open a shop more quickly than they would otherwise,” he added. “Micro-grants just help speed the system along.”

With the Iraqi government and coalition forces working together toward security and prosperity, the response from the people has been optimistic.

“Everything we’ve heard so far has been extremely positive,” Wynes said.

Now that al-Qaida has been removed from the area, people are really excited about their future, he explained.

------------------

Chris, I love you buddy. Keep those pictures coming and...your head on a swivel.

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Son...

SPC Chris Stevenson, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment preparing for a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

Evening...is it Friday yet?

Tonight's blog is a look at life in Iraq as seen through the eyes and words of our 20 year old warrior...

Look at the faces of these young men...

I see the face of America...

What do you see?

February 18, 2008
Baghdad, Iraq

Hey mom,

Man I'm excited. You know, there's a shop at the PX that makes suits and I know I can get the measurements there [for my tux for Jake's wedding.] If not, I'm sure someone around here knows how to do it.

MAN I can't wait to see the [remodeled] house. Sounds like it's gonna be awesome.

You know what? I found my camera last night when Strick moved in. Haha I felt so stupid...it was under my mattress in the corner...oh well.

I DO actually need baby wipes...that would be very nice. If you sent them with the Caedmon's Call CDs that would be perfect.

I don't really need anything else, though.

I love you mom! I'll call you when I can.

Son

--------------------------------------------

SPC Chris Stevenson (Left) and SPC Robert Farnsworth, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Robert Farnsworth (Left) and SPC Chris Stevenson, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Jeremy Hardin 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment is thumbs up in a Stryker vehicle.
(CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Chris Stevenson, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment inside a Stryker vehicle in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Stryker vehicle on patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Bobby Schoendorf (left) and SPC Harris, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment preparing for a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Brandon (Robo) Robertson (Left) and SPC Bobby Schoendorf , 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment preparing for a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Noel Gaulard (Left), SPC Chris Stevenson and SPC Kellan Black, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment warriors interact with Iraqi children in Baghdad, Iraq.
(CDS Photos, Inc.)

2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment warriors interact with Iraqi children in Baghdad, Iraq.
(CDS Photos, Inc.)


2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment warriors interact with Iraqi children in Baghdad, Iraq.
(CDS Photos, Inc.)


SPC Robert Farnsworth, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment provides security while on patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)


SPC Chris Stevenson, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment prepares for a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)


SPC Brandon (Robo) Robertson (Front) and SPC Eric Strick, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment relax in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)


SPC Robert Torres, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment shows his muscle in Baghdad, Iraq.
(CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Chris Stevenson (Front) and SPC Robert Farnsworth, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment on patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)


2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment on patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. (CDS Photos, Inc.)

--------------------------------------------

Chris, we love you son and we too can't wait to see you in May - be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Kinetic Warrior...and Much More...

A US soldier from the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment plays video games with Iraqi children as his unit patrols a Shiite neighborhood in a Baghdad. (JEWEL SAMAD/AFP/Getty Images)

"The strategy, which features a "surge" in troops to push terrorists out of communities, community help in maintaining security and fostering new cooperation between locals and the Iraqi government, has bred a new type of U.S. soldier in Iraq -- a kinetic warrior who is also a diplomat, community relations worker, a dispute mediator, social service adviser and reconstruction facilitator."
(Richard Tomkins, UPI, 18 February 2008)

Afternoon...we received a note from Chris - more on that in my next blog.

This has been a quiet holiday where our phone and email (comfy apps) have been silent but the news and interest in the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment continues to flow. The info hounds tipped a story from UPI correspondent Richard Tomkins on the sectarian challenges confronting the 3rd Squadron, 2nd SCR in the Diyala Province.

I am struck but not surprised by the complex environment in which all of our soldiers are working. Kinetic operations are one thing but...diplomat, mediator, social worker and reconstruction facilitator all rolled up in one? The U.S. Army expects and gets a big return on their investment from our warriors.

However, will the Iraqi's put aside their blood-debts for the sake of a unified country that can live in peace?

I'm just not sure...what do you think?

One thing I am sure of...nation building is extremely difficult and comes at a very high price...

Read on...

Iraq's Sectarian Split

By RICHARD TOMKINS (UPI Correspondent)
Published: February 18, 2008

LITTLE BARAWANA, Iraq, Feb. 18 (UPI) -- Despite the focus in the military surge and push against al-Qaida and its allies, the sectarian divide between Iraq's Sunni and Shiite communities remains a major concern and challenge for American soldiers.

The historical religious, political and economic fault line between the two groups that turned into a chasm after the fall of Saddam Hussein is not just confined to Baghdad and other major cities. Neither are remedies confined simply to the passing of reconciliation laws and establishing a more equitable demographic sharing of power and economic resources, although those actions are vital.

"The fundamental source of the conflict in Iraq is competition among ethnic and sectarian communities for power and resources," Gen. David Petraeus, author of U.S. counter-insurgency strategy for Iraq, said in testimony before Congress last September. "This competition will take place, and its resolution is key to producing long-term stability in the new Iraq. The question is whether the competition takes place more -- or less -- violently."

Under Saddam Hussein, the minority Sunnis dominated the government and benefited from his rule. Now the position of dominance has reversed.

At the core level, success or failure in reconciliation hinges on individuals in communities big and small trying to put aside distrust, grievances and blood-debts for the sake of peace and security.

The strategy, which features a "surge" in troops to push terrorists out of communities, community help in maintaining security and fostering new cooperation between locals and the Iraqi government, has bred a new type of U.S. soldier in Iraq -- a kinetic warrior who is also a diplomat, community relations worker, a dispute mediator, social service adviser and reconstruction facilitator.

In the Diyala River Valley village of Little Barawana one of those new soldiers recently surveyed his battlefield and then began to speak.

The days of "insurgents operating in Barawana are past," Lt. Col. Rod Coffey said to a gathering of Sunni and Shiite sheiks and leaders. "They (the terrorists) are now gone, but the people of both Barawanas suffered because of them.

"I ask you to help each other, not blame each other for the past.

"Together we can make sure the terrorists are gone and stay away," he said.

Coffey is commander of the U.S. Army's 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, which launched an offensive in early January against AQI in the "Bread Basket" area of the Diyala River Valley, about 70 miles northeast of Baghdad. Two years ago the region became a sanctuary for al-Qaida and its sometimes nationalist Sunni ally, Jaish Ansar al-Sunna.

His audience was 20 Shiite sheiks, mullahs and other officials from the village of Little Barawana and 20 of their Sunni counterparts from the neighboring village of Big Barawana, who sat on opposite sides of a concrete courtyard. The two groups had come together to sign a peace treaty at the urging of Coffey and officials in the provincial capital of Baqubah.

For two years the two villages of about 1,000 residents each had been at each other's throats. All roads and footpaths between the villages were blockaded, farmers with land exposed to the other side abandoned their farms. Shooting across the 300 meters of open -- but mined and booby-trapped -- ground separating the villages was regular.

The feud had started in 2006 when al-Qaida, whose members are nominally Sunni, blew up the Shiite Shrine of the Golden Mosque in the distant city of Samara, sparking sectarian violence nationwide. The Sunnis of Big Barawana, fearing attacks by Shiites, apparently saw AQI, which was moving into the area in force, as protection.

As in a classic John Ford Western, the protectors soon became the tyrants, a situation only ended by the U.S.-Iraqi offensive named Operation Raider Harvest.

Under terms of the agreement Coffey and Iraqi leaders presented in Little Barawana the two sides pledged to re-establish good relations; bar from their villages all terrorists, insurgents and anyone else who would harm the joint interests of the villages; and to report to the police or other security forces any arms or explosive caches.

They further agreed to exercise self-restraint in their dealings with each other -- especially in any incidents of shooting. All roads and pathways also would be reopened and efforts would be made to facilitate the return of villagers who fled their own homes.

The leaders, with help from the Baqubah Tribal Council, would meet regularly to thrash out problems, and U.S. and Iraqi authorities would monitor progress and act as mediators.

Coffey is hopeful for the Barawanas but also aware of special challenges. Little Barawana has some 21 Iraqi Police, nearly double allotted by the government, and many of the extras as suspected of being Shiite militia members.

After the signing of the agreement the Sunni and Shiite representatives began crossing the 25-foot physical divide at the school, kissing each other on the cheek and shaking hands. Soon animated conversations took place between old friends separated by blood-debts. But Coffey was grimfaced and spoke in hushed tones to the Tribal Council representative, a Shiite.

"I'm going to speak to the IP commander, but I want you to tell them also: 'I'm not fooling around. I will arrest them if I think they're trying to cause sectarian violence. That sort of thing will end as long as I'm commander here.'

"Some (of the Shiite IPs) are hotheads. You leaders have to get control of them or this agreement will unravel."

What sparked Coffey's ire was the way the Shiite IPs at the meeting interacted with the Sunni representatives -- grudgingly, with disdain if not outright hate in their eyes.

Earlier during the gathering a young Shiite, a friend of an IP who had somehow gained entry to the proceedings, was ejected after voicing hostile remarks towards the Sunni leaders.

"You don't understand the Iraqi system," an Iraqi who spoke English told a U.S. soldier who had thrown the intruder out. "If someone kills my brother -- say, a Baathist -- I will never forget that. And every time I see a Baathist, I'll think he's the one who did it."

Coffey, and soldiers up and down the chain of command in Iraq, understand it very well. When the Sunnis returned to Big Barawana, they did so riding in U.S. Stryker armored vehicles.
--------------------------------------------

Chris, I love you son. The work you and the rest of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are doing is simply outstanding. Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to you all...how can we say thank you?

Words seem pretty inadequate...

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Cleaning Up East Rashid...

US soldiers from the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment take up position during a patrol in a neighborhood in Baghdad, Iraq. (JEWEL SAMAD/AFP/Getty Images.)

Evening...

I trust you have had a great weekend. How many of you will enjoy tomorrow off in honor of President's Day? My wife and I will...we are looking forward to some down time.

Tonight's blog...

In a short article, courtesy Multi-National Corps - Iraq, Chris and the warriors of 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment continue to work with the local Sons of Iraq (SOI) to clean up Abu T’Shir in East Rashid.

What caught my eye was the arrest of two Iraqi policemen near the ordnance...obviously our warriors must continue to be suspicious of the Iraqi police force.

When will this change? Will it ever? Jeez...

Sunday, 17 February 2008

Multi-National Corps – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20080217-04
February 17, 2008

SOI hand over two suspected criminals; MND-B Soldiers seize munitions
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD – Members of the Sons of Iraq (Abna’a al-Iraq) handed two suspected criminals over to Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers in East Rashid Feb. 16.

The SOI turned the men in to “Cougars” of 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to Task Force Dragon, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, because they were in possession of homemade explosives.

Coalition forces explosive ordnance disposal personnel safely destroyed the munitions.

During a patrol in Abu T’Shir, Cougars also seized an explosively formed penetrator, 10 60 mm mortar rounds, and arrested three men, including two Iraqi policemen near the ordnance.

All detainees were taken to a coalition forces detention facility for further questioning.

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Let's close with some photos of 1st and 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR which were provided by DVIDS. Note the variety of jobs being performed.

To the men and women of the 2nd SCR, we continue to pray for your safety. Keep the pressure on all throughout the Baghdad area as you take care of business.

Thanks for all you do...

Capt. Augusto Giacoman, a Spring Lake, N.C., native and an operations officer with the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad, talks with a couple of young Iraqi boys while on a patrol through the Jamila neighborhood of Sadr City, Feb. 14. To the delight of the boys, Giacoman, who studied Arabic in college, was able to converse with them in their own language. Photographer: Sgt. Michael Pryor 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs.

Capt. Augusto Giacoman, a Spring Lake, N.C., native and an operations officer with the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad, talks with a couple of young Iraqi boys while on a patrol through the Jamila neighborhood of Sadr City, Feb. 14. To the delight of the boys, Giacoman, who studied Arabic in college, was able to converse with them in their own language. Photographer: Sgt. Michael Pryor, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs.

Brig. Gen. Milano, the 4th Infantry Divison's assistant division commander for support, Harker Heights, Texas, native, Col. Ricky Gibbs, commander, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and Spring Valley, Minn., native, Lt. Col. Myron Reineke, commander of the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, look at plans for a solid waste treatment facility in southern Baghdad's Abu T'Shir neighborhood, Feb. 15. A landfill is also in the works for the same region. Photographer: Pfc. Nathaniel Smith, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division

Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Clanin, a native of Corona, Calif., and a platoon sergeant with Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad, leads his men on a patrol through the Jamila neighborhood of Sadr City, Feb. 14. Photographer: Sgt. Michael Pryor, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs.

Andover, Mass., native 1st Lt. Asaushik Narasimhan, a fire support officer with C Troop, 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad, follows the example of the old Shia man sitting next to him and watches the activity on the streets during a halt while on a patrol through Sadr City, Feb. 14. Photographer: Sgt. Michael Pryor, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs.

Willard, Ohio, native Lt. Col. Dan Barnett, right, commander of the 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad, and members of his personal security detail attract some curious onlookers as they talk to warehouse workers during a patrol through the Jamila neighborhood of Sadr City, Feb. 14. Photographer: Sgt. Michael Pryor, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs.

--------------------------

Chris, we love you buddy and look forward to your next phone call.

Had a shower lately?

Be safe - we are all praying for you and the entire 2nd SCR!

v/r,

- Collabman

Trust...

US soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment patrol in the village of al-Wajihiya, 30 kms away from the restive city of Baquba, northeast of Baghdad. (ALI YUSSEF/AFP/Getty Images)

Happy Saturday...

This morning, I stumbled across an interesting article that made me think of Chris and all the warriors with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Iraq. For most of us, our day-to-day jobs do not require us to trust someone with our life. However, for our loved ones...trust and knowing someone has your back is how they live 24x7.

Who do you trust with your life?

Grab a cup of hot java and read a story about U.S. Army warriors, just like ours with the 2nd SCR, and how they began the process of building trust that is characterized by the statement...I got your back.

As you read it reflect on our warriors in the 2nd SCR and how they live each day...

Trust..."If you do it well, other people will give you the earth. If you betray them, they will hunt you to the ends of the earth."

From Blog-ah by Ken Swarner

15 February 2008

Be aware

Making my way up the hill, I turned around and saw the men gritting their teeth and pumping their arms as if they were pushing through a pool of mud. We reached the top of the hill, and we circled up. The fresh faces from 3 miles ago were gone. Now there were rosy cheeks and drenched PT shirts and hard breathing men.

As we stretched, I talked to the young men about my experiences on the ground in Iraq, about the importance of staying the proper distance back when on patrol. As we made our way down the road, I instructed them to spread out in a foot patrol formation. As we ran down the road, I discussed how important it was to trust the man next to you with your life. “I know we all don’t get along, but for fifteen months you’re married to the men around you. So it’s wise to learn about those around you and trust them.”

As we came down the hill, I instructed them to run backwards down the hill, putting their trust in me that I wouldn’t have them falling on their rears. As they started to run backwards, one by one they instinctively turned their necks slightly around to see where they were going. I barked at the top of my lungs. “Are you kidding me? You think I am going to let any one of you men trip, fall and land on your silly butts? You must trust me, men, that I can get you down this hill safely.” After some time every one of them was on track with what I was saying, and they all made it down the hill without even a misstep.

As we started to get going, I continued telling them about how important it is to stay the proper distance back in walking or running patrol. I summed it up: “Men, just think distance saves lives. Grenades, IEDS, sniper fire, and other unpredictable things might come up while on the roads.” I went on by telling them that on my first patrol I had learned quickly that falling behind in a patrol can cause you to not be able to hear the command from your leader.

I was running in the middle, and I noticed the men were talking to each other, helping each other, making sure everyone was doing the right thing. I instructed the men to come to a stop and told them to look around and tell me what they saw. Everyone started talking at once. I held up my hand as if I was in school, and they all shut up. “Who’s taking the lead on this exercise?” They all looked around at each other. “I am.” I looked back, and there one of the smallest guys in the group spoke up. I walked back to him, “You need to ask these men what they see in the woods and if there is any way we can get out of here another way.” He walked down the road and started asking the men.

After three minutes or so, he came back to me and gave me the update. They all saw in the distance a white building and what looked like a fence. I said to the young solider, “Hey, it’s time to step and get us out of here. Let’s see you lead.” He looked at me with a blank stare. “Hey, what’s going to happen when everyone who has led you is on the ground dead, dying or whatever? You need to start now to think ahead of the game.” I stopped and turned around. “Men, it’s not like the movies. The hero doesn’t always make it to the end; you must be ready at anytime to step up and have courage to lead.” The young man next to me was looking at the ground thinking. I walked over to him and asked, “Hey, are the answers to get these guys out of the woods before dark down on the ground?” He looked at me, and like an athlete to a coach during an important game situation, he shook his head in agreement, and then he turned around with determination on his face and started to give the guys orders.

We made our way down the road, and the leader gave the order to stop. Everyone dropped to a knee. We were at a four-way, and there was a decision to make. I had been back in the woods, and I knew exactly where we were, but I wasn’t going to say anything. I wanted these men to work together on trying to get out of these woods. The leader called up two guys to go and recon and see what was a little way up past the four-way. I walked up and took a knee beside the men. I just listened.

“Hey, there’s a fence down there and a road.” The two others looked at each other. The leader asked, “So what way do you think we should go?” The two men looked at him, gave a shrug, and said, “I think we should go back up that hill back there and go back to hard-ball road.” The leader looked straight ahead at the objective; you could see he was thinking. I spoke up. “OK, men, you need to make a decision, because it’s getting dark. The men are cold, and they don’t have water. It’s time; make that decision.” They ran back to the men who were pulling security. Earlier in the run they had all picked up some sticks and ran with them at the ready, simulating what they would be doing a lot.

The leader made the decision. “We are going back up that hill and getting back to the hard ball; from there we are heading home.” The men didn’t question the leader one bit, and that was good, but before the recon I had heard one of the men say that they remembered a fence. I told the men to take off and make their way to the hard ball. I waited a little. I knew how close they were to getting home the easy way; as a matter of fact, 50 meters to the south was the trail down to the fence. As soon as they got far enough away, I yelled into the woods, “Come to my voice.” After five minutes or so they came running down the trail to the fence, where I was leaning up against the gate.

As they came down the trail, the looks on their faces were priceless. They knew how close they were. They stopped, and I went right into the lesson learned. “Men, when we ran down this road where did we stop?” They all answered at the same time, “By the fence with a gate.” “OK, so everyone saw that fence, and you all recognized that structure on the other side of the road, and no one spoke up.” They all looked at the ground looking for answers. “Men, what is the first thing I told you when we left?” They all said the same thing: “To watch our surroundings and pay attention regardless of how tired we are.”

They shook their heads in agreement. I quickly finished the lesson. “Men, you will be tired. You will be hot, cold and miserable, but you must know what is around and what you have been around.” As we made our way back, I told them how lucky they were to come to the unit and be able to be trained properly and sent into battle with some knowledge. As we finished the exercise I released them, but before that I put in my last two words — words that they may never hear from me again. “Men, soon you will no longer be new, and what you do in this Army is up to you. But I want you to know right now that I am a person who believes in you and trusts you. My wife and my family believe in you to have my back when s*** hits the fan, just know that.”

On the way up the stairs to change, one of the men got my attention. “Specialist Hardt, we won’t forget this; we promise.” I looked at him and smiled and replied, “I won’t either.” One thing in life I desire is to know someone took something from me and used it. That way I can die knowing I gave.

--------------------------------------------

"That way I can die knowing I gave." - wow, powerful words, eh?

I wonder if we can say the same?

v/r,
- Collabman

Fear Trumps...Everything

A US soldier from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment scans the area as he takes position during a patrol in Baghdad's Haifa street. US forces will remain in Iraq beyond the end of the current UN mandate, but a continued US troop presence will not tie the hands of a future US president, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Defense Secretary Robert Gates wrote in a newspaper column Wednesday. (AFP/Ali Yussef )

Happy Valentine's Day...hope you all are doing well and enjoying the week...

Tonight, a simple blog where the story, pictures and captions speak for themselves...

Before you take a look at the photos check out this article that was posted last night in the Washington Times. 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment continues their outstanding work in the bread basket but...the local residents continue to live in fear of the insurgents.

Read on...

U.S. troops sought to gather tips from a market vendor on the number of al Qaeda militants in Himbus, a town in Diyala province. (Washington Times)

Washington Times
February 13, 2008

Fear Stalls Final Push To Oust Iraq's Militants

U.S. forces frustrated at reluctance in Diyala to ID al Qaeda By Richard Tomkins, The Washington Times

HIMBUS, Iraq -- Fear is more than a four-letter concept in Iraq's Diyala province. It's real. It's constant. It's all-pervasive, and for years, while the area was under the thumb of al Qaeda, it was a matter of life and death.

It still is all of the above.

The number of active al Qaeda terrorists in the province north of Baghdad is thought to be less than a hundred following Operation Raider Harvest.

Yet the fear remains palpable.

"They would kill anyone, even a sheik, and no one could ask why," said a man who identified himself as Raad in the town of Himbus.

"Everyone was afraid. People stayed at home because they could just stop you on the street and make you do things, take your money, beat you or kidnap you.

"Four men were kidnapped a week before [U.S. and Iraqi forces] came. No one has seen them again."

The mukhtar, or chief, of al-Hib village gave a similar assessment to a U.S. soldier.

"Al Qaeda made us like chickens, afraid of everything," the mukhtar, or headman, of al-Hib reported.

The mukhtar made the unusually frank admission in his home, away from prying eyes and eavesdropping, when a patrol from Iron Company, 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment paid a courtesy call.

Raad's statement was made on a public street, but two of his friends kept passers-by from crowding around within hearing distance.

It was not misplaced caution.

U.S. troops in Diyala province reported an increase in tips about al Qaeda terrorists since beginning the operation Jan. 8.

"The population is less nervous ... about giving us information on the remaining al Qaeda in the area," The Washington Times quoted Lt. Col. Rod Coffey, the unit's commander, as saying in an article last week.

But interviews with the two Iraqis, both witnessed by this reporter, reflect a darker side for those who continue to live in the province. Building trust will take time.

Himbus and al-Hib are located in what's called Diyala's breadbasket, a region rich in dates, pomegranates and oranges.

Until the kickoff of the U.S.-Iraqi operation last month, no central government official had visited the area of some 10,000 residents for two years.

Himbus was an al Qaeda sanctuary along a main infiltration route between Baghdad and the northern provinces. There were safe houses and headquarters buildings — basically, homes confiscated from their owners at gunpoint — training camps, arms and munitions caches.

Under de facto al Qaeda rule, smoking cigarettes was forbidden, women were required to wear full hijab and music of any kind was banned, residents said.

Beards could no longer be kept short and neatly trimmed, as Iraqi men prefer. No one was allowed out of doors between 5 p.m. and dawn.

Those restrictions are gone, but fear of those who enforced it remains and is affecting U.S. and Iraqi security efforts.

"People tell me they are still afraid of the terrorists and also afraid of us," said Sgt. Rudy Perreno of Iron Company. "I ask them, why us? When was the last time they heard of us cutting off heads?

"It's damn frustrating. No one will point out the ones still here."

An estimated 10 to 20 terrorists are thought to be in the Himbus area, as well as those who do their bidding, whether for ideology, for cash or under duress.

They continue to plant bombs known as improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, and threaten, through their very presence, retribution on those who cooperate with coalition forces.

U.S. soldiers last month found a house booby-trapped with explosives — a house they searched and cleared just days earlier.

Soldiers also found and destroyed four IED devices planted at spots in the road cleared a few days earlier.

Every day platoons from Iron Company leave a small house they've established as a base and check and recheck abandoned houses, roads and buildings for new bombs.

Every day they visit neighborhoods, stop in homes to take information and attempt to get intelligence on terrorists.

Out of public sight, Iraqis are courteous, hospitable and friendly. On the street, those same Iraqis look straight ahead, eyes down, past the U.S. patrols and only smile or utter "salaam" ("peace") when soldiers say it to them first.

Fear of retribution even trumps gratitude.

An Iraqi woman's response to a question in sign language as to the health of the young child she was carrying was an almost imperceptible nod and a smile, faster than a blink, before she returned to her eyes-down march past a column of Stryker armored vehicles.

Hours before, a medic in the convoy had helped treat the child who was thought near death because of dehydration and arranged additional treatment at a hospital. "I know you're afraid that there are still bad guys here," Col. Coffey told a group of men standing near a canal in Himbus recently.

"We understand, but you'll never be safe as long as there are killers on the street. Tells us who they are, and we'll get them. Tell us in private; no one will know who said anything."

When a U.S. soldier went to take a photograph of the group for identity checking, three men in it were seen to shrink back and stand behind those much taller. The second photo taken arranged those men in front, in unobstructed view.

They weren't that clever," a soldier said. "We'll find out exactly who they are and where they live."U.S. forces also are trying to get those who have worked for al Qaeda to turn themselves in.

"If they come to me, shall I tell them to surrender to you?" the mukhtar of Himbus asked Capt. David Beaudoin, the executive officer of Iron Company said

"Yes, get the word out on the street. Tell them we understand good people were made to do things to protect their families."

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Let me close with a few photos with a positive story...take a look....

School girls from the Seyab school express their excitement and anticipation as they wait patiently for the delivery of school supplies from the Soldiers of Battery A, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Multi-national Division – Baghdad. The Soldiers of 1st Platoon delivered school supplies to the school in Salamiyat, Iraq, which was followed by providing medical care to more than 100 children, men and women, said 1st Lt. Ryan Johnson, a native of Berwick, Pennsylvania, 1st platoon leader. (U.S. Army photo/1st Lt. Tiffany Bilderback, Fires Sqdn., 2nd SCR, MND-B)

Capt. Matthew Terry, a native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, who serves as a fires direction officer with Battery A, Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Multi-national Division – Baghdad, teaches a local boy his secret handshake during a school supply drop and medical mission at the Seyab School in Salamiyat, Iraq. The Soldiers of Battery A began the morning delivering school supplies to the school supervisor and students. Medics and physician assistants then provided medical treatment to more than 100 children, men and women.(U.S. Army photo/1st Lt. Tiffany Bilderback, Fires Sqdn., 2nd SCR, MND-B)

Soldiers from Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Multi-national Division – Baghdad, maintain security as the sun begins to set and the Soldiers continued to provide medical aid inside the Seyab School in Salamiyat, Iraq. (U.S. Army photo/1st Lt. Tiffany Bilderback, Fires Sqdn., 2nd SCR, MND-B)

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To our warriors in Iron Troop, 3rd Squadron, 2nd SCR and Fires Squadron, 2nd SCR - well done! Continue to press and take care of business...you all rock!

Chris, I love you buddy! We are looking forward to those cameras and the photos they contain.

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Weary and Worn...

Dog Company of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment search for sheep to inoculate. None were vaccinated that day. (Johan Spanner for USN&WR)

Evening...

Do you ever wonder how our warriors from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment stay with it day in, day out? I am sure you have read the articles talking about our forces being stretched to the limits...worn and weary.

How do our men and women do it? Maybe more importantly, how is this demanding pace taking a toll on our warriors?

What compels them to do what they do every day in Iraq? Money? Fame? Notoriety? Not hardly...

What would we do without men and women like these?

Check out this current article in US News and World Report on Chris' unit - Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR.

Note the effects on both officers and enlisted alike...

Tell me what you think...

The Weary Army: Strains Show in Various Ways

Demanding pace takes a toll on the troops
By Anna Mulrine
Posted February 13, 2008

BAGHDAD—At Combat Outpost Aztec, the Company D (Dog Company) platoons of the Army's 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment spend eight hours a day patrolling the tough, rural roads of their palm grove-rich stretch of southeastern Baghdad.

They search for militia thugs and keep an eye on the new civilian neighborhood watch patrols. Then, they have another eight hours a day of duty guarding the old meatpacking plant where they live. And in rare quiet hours, the soldiers have spent time literally counting sheep, in an effort to gauge local livestock health.

Dog Company has been deployed for three of the past five years, with stints in Mosul and Germany, in addition to their time in Iraq. This kind of operational tempo, optempo in military parlance, has taken its toll throughout the armed forces. Capt. Doug Willig, the Dog Company commander, reports that of his six closest friends at West Point, five have left the military.

It's part of what commanders point to as a troubling loss of junior officers. By last year, for instance, 50 percent of the West Point class of 2001 had opted to leave the Army, up from 34 percent in 2006, when the class's five-year commitment was up, figures that were roughly similar for the class of 2000. In response, West Point offered the class of 2007 incentives such as graduate school and choice of post in exchange for extending service commitments by three years—35 percent have accepted.

As they grab lukewarm bottles of water from an overburdened cooler, some of the soldiers just back from patrol smoke and discuss whether they will get out of an Army that has lately gone to extraordinary lengths to fill its ranks, such as providing enlistment bonuses and waivers for past criminal behavior.

Spc. Noel Gaulard II was the recipient of one of those waivers. "I'd had some prior police involvement, done some jail time, and I needed waivers to say that I would no longer do that, get all my fines paid, and sign a contract—it took about six months."

It has not always been easy since he joined. For starters, he was shot by a sniper while out on patrol just weeks after his unit arrived in Iraq. "It wasn't even half serious," he says, showing off the tattooed shoulder, still bandaged, where the bullet struck him.

He is standing up eating breakfast in the room that now serves as the makeshift mess hall. There aren't enough chairs for all the soldiers to sit, and he laughs off suggestions that someone might stand up so that he, being injured, could sit down. "They're the ones who have to go out on patrol," he says. While he is recouping, he uses his good arm to hammer together some shelves for the small room he shares with two other soldiers.

Gaulard has a 2-year-old son, born while he was in basic training. Between that and deployments, he says, he has been able to spend only about two months with him. He sends $1,500 a month to his girlfriend, which has allowed her to quit the two jobs she was working to care for their child and study for her registered nursing degree full time.

He anticipates re-enlisting and using the bonus money for a wedding—and for the honeymoon he plans during his rare downtime. "There was a small article about me in our hometown paper. They all know what I'm doing," he says. "I just feel really proud of myself for moving from where I was and what I was doing to this."

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Chris, I love you son. There really are no words to express how we feel...to see the 2nd SCR written about in USN&WR makes me proud of all you guys are doing.

As a country we are so thankful and appreciative that you all choose to stand in the breach for us...

Be safe...I remember your sacrifice every day...

v/r,
- Collabman