Collabman's Thoughts

Signing Off...

2008-10-20T19:46:00.022-06:00

"She started writing
You're good and you're brave
What a father that you'll be someday
make it home
make it safe

She wrote every night as she prayed"

Letters From War/Mark Schultz

Evening...

Well, the time has come to wrap this up and say so long. What better way to end this blog than to focus on you all - the folks who made this blog possible and a source of encouragement.

Lets take a look back at what the Google stats say about you all...stats that made me smile only because this journey began as a way to support Chris and for my family to keep track of him. These stats will probably make you laugh as well. They were interesting and fascinating to say the least.

I have always looked forward to our frequent, if not daily conversations...thank you for your wonderful support, kind words and constant prayers. You will never know how much you did for us.

Ms. Collabman and I will be forever grateful...

After you chuckle at the stats, take one last look at the video we watched back on August 20, 2007. Those closing images of the warriors embracing their loved ones are on the horizon...they are close to becoming a reality.

Chris, as I have always said and will continue to say...I love you son!

Be safe!

Signing off...

v/r,
- Collabman

29 July 2007 - 20 October 2008
287 Blogs

Site Usage...

Visits - 41, 642
Pageviews - 79, 308
Average Time on Site - 2 minutes and 39 seconds

Absolute Unique Visitors - 10, 629

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Map Overlay...

41,642 visits from 83 countries/territories

United States - 37,775 visits from all 50 states plus the District of Columbia
Germany - 2, 480 visits
United Kingdom - 179 visits

United States - Top 5 Visiting States

Colorado - 4,854 visits
California - 3,513 visits
New York - 2,982 visits
Virginia - 2,088 visits
Texas - 1,831 visits

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Content Overview...

Top 10 Blogs by Visits

Full Plate - I wonder if folks who hit this blog were actually looking for food :-)
Team of Fallen Angels and the many Fallen Angel blogs (for every warrior we lost)
Show Up...Get in the Fight...Contribute
Operational Update - 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment
Riding With the Bulls
Cleaning Up East Rashid
Music at Combat Outpost Aztec
Running
A View From the Sandbox
Block by Block

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Video Content...

Top 5 of 50 Videos I Posted to YouTube

===================

Breathtaking Courage...

2008-10-19T09:59:00.014-06:00

U.S. soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment provide cover for teammates during a patrol in Baghdad, Iraq in 2007.

"I made a decision at the point," he said. "We had enough people to handle the rest of this fight so I could cut a platoon loose to get this kid to the hospital. I didn't want to put more guys in jeopardy. I wanted to handle it myself. We got Holly loaded up and I went back up to the roof. I had the Apaches running search patrols of the entire sector."
SGM Eric Geressy

Morning and happy Sunday...

Though the reports have slowed to a trickle, the info hounds continue to keep an eye on the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment looking for any news covering their service in Iraq. I was tipped this morning to a wonderful report on 1SG Eric Geressy, who served with Eagle Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, assigned to Multi-National Division-Baghdad-Iraq.

Why would you be interested? Well, for those of you who connected as part of our on-line support group in the states for the past 15 months, I know you will remember SPC Ryan Holley from the great state of Louisiana. Think back to how we all felt when the news began to ripple that Ryan had been wounded. I couldn't help but reflect back on this blog - Feeling the Pain. Seems like a long time ago, eh?

Give this story a read and relive the courage under fire that 1SG Eric Geressy displayed as he made a number of life-saving decisions in the face of withering enemy fire...to get Ryan immediate medical assistance while continuing to lead and direct the fight on the ground.

This amazing story reflects great credit on 1SG Geressy and the entire 2nd SCR during their time in Iraq.

We have been blessed with men like 1SG Geressy, SPC Holly and the rest of the 2nd SCR - they are the backbone, heart and soul of our great country!

Enjoy!

Chris, I love you son. Mom and I continue to pray for you everyday...as do the rest of the prayer warriors who have covered you since last August. We can't wait to see you next month.

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

==========================

Breathtaking courage under fire

Silver Star is awarded to an Island soldier for effort to save comrades during a battle in Iraq
Sunday, October 19, 2008
By STEPHANIE SLEPIAN
STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Company E had just assumed control of its command outpost in Al Hadar. The unit spent the first 24 hours fortifying its position. As dusk turned to dawn, a rooftop firefight erupted that would last more than six hours.

First Sgt. Eric Geressy moved from tower to tower under direct fire, helped carry a wounded soldier down a flight of stairs to safety and called for helicopters to root out the enemy and destroy his defensive position.

"It was a pretty good firefight," said Geressy, 37, a South Beach native who served three tours in Iraq and was among the first invasion force in 2003.

On Sept. 5, almost a year to the day from when Geressy led his soldiers in the scramble, his grandfather, who made three jumps into enemy territory with the 82nd Airborne Division during World War II, pinned a Silver Star to his chest.

It goes along with the Bronze Star -- his grandfather has one, too -- he received in 2005.

"It was really humbling to look back at what we did," said Geressy, now a master sergeant attending the Sergeants Major Academy at Fort Bliss, Texas.

That's where he was awarded the Silver Star in front of his comrades and his family, including mom, Mary Ann Geressy of Oakwood Beach, and grandfather, Mitchell Rech of Port St. Lucie, Fla.

"I didn't do anything special," he said. "I was just put in a situation. It's all about my company. Those guys rose up that day. They are the real heroes of the day."

Eagle Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, assigned to Multi-National Division-Baghdad-Iraq, arrived at the command outpost, a densely populated area known as a hotbed of sectarian violence, on Sept. 3, 2007.

Geressy's commanders were assigned elsewhere at the time. That left him as the most superior officer.

Under his leadership, his soldiers -- 80 percent of whom had no combat experience -- worked night and day sand-bagging windows and guard towers, repositioning key weapons systems, installing bulletproof glass and erecting camouflage netting along the entire outpost's rooftop for concealment.

A day later, Geressy received several warnings about a vehicle believed to be rigged with explosives. After finally sending in a platoon to check it out, he learned the truck was sitting there for more than two months.

"It was a trap," said Geressy, a 20-year Army veteran. "The enemy was trying to draw us out."

He pulled his platoon back, but they came under sporadic fire as they returned. Ten minutes later, rocket-propelled grenades zipped over the command post's walls.

As Geressy began putting on his gear, he heard panicked screaming from the roof. Someone was calling for a medic.

"I never know what I am going to find on the other end of that," he said. "It felt like it took me forever to get up there. There was sniper fire. [Spec. Ryan] Holly got hit. He got it on the right side of the chest and it came out the back. He was bleeding pretty good."

Under a steady hail of machine gun fire, Geressy and another soldier carried Holly off the roof to a waiting physician's assistant. Geressy requested an Aerial Weapons Team.

He spotted the two Apache choppers overhead. The soldiers on the ground pinpointed the enemy's location with smoke grenades for the pilots.

"I made a decision at the point," he said. "We had enough people to handle the rest of this fight so I could cut a platoon loose to get this kid to the hospital. I didn't want to put more guys in jeopardy. I wanted to handle it myself. We got Holly loaded up and I went back up to the roof. I had the Apaches running search patrols of the entire sector."

As the Stryker vehicles moved out with Holly -- who is recovering from his injuries -- the insurgents opened fire on the convoy.

They made it out while the Apaches launched Hellfire missiles and conducted strafing runs, crippling the enemy's defenses.

"[The enemy] knew we were a new unit," Geressy said. "They wanted to make a statement about hammering us, but we were more ready than they expected."

Stephanie Slepian is a news reporter for the Advance. She may be reached at slepian@siadvance.com.

Out With the Old...In With the New

2008-10-16T19:15:00.008-06:00

US soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment patrol in Diyala province, northeast of Baghdad, March 2008. Iraqi leaders are pouring over a new draft of a proposed military pact with Washington that would set the terms of a US troop presence beyond this year.
(AFP/File/David Furst)

Evening...

Ah, the tag line says it all. Remember the photo above and the early days of the 2nd SCR in the Diyala province? How could we forget?

Has your week been a good one? Heard from your warrior? We continue to pray for them all...

As you enjoy the video, maybe you recognize a 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment warrior? Getting closer every day!

Chris, we enjoyed the phone call last night - hearing your voice was such an encouragement. You sounded great!

I love you son...we are so proud of you.

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Dragoons and Arctic Wolves

Coming Home...

2008-10-15T19:29:00.004-06:00

Spc. Manuel Garcia, a 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment soldier, is welcomed home to Vilseck early Tuesday morning by, from left, son Jaiden, wife Jennifer, daughter Jelissa and sons Drew and Jaxton.

Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes

Evening...

I love to see photos and read stories on the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment - especially when they are about warriors from our support group who are coming home!

Welcome home, SPC Garcia and thanks for your sacrifice and service. We are so proud of you! Oh, and enjoy driving a regular car :-)

Enjoy the story guys and continue to pray for our warriors...

Chris, I love you buddy! Be Safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Soldiers arrive home to changing Vilseck
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Thursday, October 16, 2008

VILSECK, Germany — Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are coming home to a community that has changed drastically during the 15 months they were deployed to Iraq.

At Vilseck, the post exchange — once the heart of the Grafenwöhr-Vilseck community — has been replaced by a furniture store. A new mall, including a PX and commissary, opened at Grafenwöhr. The 172nd Infantry Brigade arrived at Graf over summer and is preparing to embark on its own Iraq mission next month.

U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwöhr spokesman Franz Zeilmann said the community is preparing for the Strykers’ arrival and reintegration.

"USAG Grafenwöhr used the deployment of the soldiers to update soldiers’ facilities and their working places with a very intensive construction program," he said.

Garrison agencies will offer many extra programs to the returning troops including Outdoor Recreation trips, free child care, and sales and giveaways at the PX and commissary. Local German communities are also planning welcome-home events, he said.

The new facilities, new people and community activities were not the first things on the minds of some of the first Strykers who made it home in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

One of them, Staff Sgt. Robert Cruz, 37, of Guam, said he was looking forward to spending time with his wife, Geri, nieces Jenna, 11, Benita and Benicia, both 16, and nephew Isaiah, 3.

Cruz’s extended family greeted him warmly when he marched into the Memorial Fitness Center with a group of other soldiers, putting a traditional Pacific Island lei around his neck and talking about plans for welcome-home celebrations.

"We are ready to party and barbecue," Benicia said as family members clustered around a beaming Cruz.

Another Stryker who got home Tuesday, Spc. Manuel Garcia, 28, of Miami, said he was looking forward to driving a regular car.

Garcia spent his time in Iraq driving a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle out of Forward Operating Base Warhorse in Diyala province, he said.

The armored personnel carrier handles all right on paved roads, but it’s not an off-roader, he said.

"(Off-road) everyone in the vehicle is bumping around all over the place," he said, adding that he’ll be driving his family around in a Mazda van in Germany.

Garcia needs a van to move his expanding family including wife Jennifer, sons Drew, 14, Jaiden, 12, and Jaxton, 6 and daughter Jelissa, 18 months.

"I’m going to spend time with them. Whatever they enjoy doing ... and get to know my daughter," he said.

Jelissa was only a few months old when her father deployed.

The other kids have changed, too, Garcia said, pointing out the fuzzy moustache growing on Drew’s upper lip.

While his dad was gone, Drew broke his arm and it got better. Now he wants to show his father his football-tossing skills, he said.

"I just don’t want him to leave again," Jennifer said as the family prepared to drive back to their home in Eschenbach. "I’m just going to enjoy the time I have now while I have him."

Written in Red…

2008-10-11T17:04:00.006-06:00

"Those with no physical wounds often come home bearing other scars of war.

Is America doing enough for its troops after they return?"
Challenges and frustrations mark return to America – NBC Today Show

Evening…

Over the last few weeks I have been thinking a lot about our warriors and the emotions that will be flowing as they climb the staircase and board an airplane in Kuwait - an airplane that will take them home to Germany. These men and women have looked forward to this day with great anticipation and excitement for quite some time now. I have too. They are finally, headed home and out of harm’s way…but I think there will be more going on here than meets the eye. I have to wonder…

What thoughts will run through their minds as they grab the handrail and begin to climb the steps? How will they handle the emotional pain of knowing that some of their buddies - men they laughed, trained and cried with throughout their service with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment - won’t be coming home with them? What will they think as they remember their fallen angels on the long flight home? Like it or not…this is a story of a combat deployment for the 2nd SCR that has been written in red.

In my minds eye, and I want to be clear it is nothing more, this is what I think I would see and experience if I were in line with Chris on the tarmac in Kuwait. For some, this may be too painful to encounter so now would be a good time to exit this blog.

For others, please join me on the tarmac and then board the aircraft, won't you?

“The bravado and banter from the guys was just what you would expect to hear from 20-something warriors who had just finished 15 months of combat operations. Talk fills the air about that first cold drink, a night out on the town, a hug and kiss from a wife, husband, or girlfriend. Some of the discussion is raw and pretty candid, but I am neither surprised nor offended.

One warrior pokes fun at his buddy, who he patrolled the hot, dusty streets of Iraq with many times, about that letter he received that smelled oh so good. His buddy just laughs and smiles as his thoughts turned to home and that lady who penned the letter. I overhear another warrior describe in vivid detail how he plans on spending his first few days on block leave and what it will be like to lay his head down on a pillow and sleep…without the cold steel and stock of his M4 next to him.

They all are looking forward to something. For some it is reconnecting with a friend. For others, it is all about settling down, choosing a college, moving to a new unit or maybe reenlisting. I could sense that they were finally beginning to relax and look ahead.

For me…well, I found myself wondering how they would respond to the unspoken pressure to neatly fold up their feelings and pack them away – how would they react? How many of these warriors will struggle with depression, anxiety and/or post-traumatic stress disorder? You know, those hidden wounds that many would prefer not to talk about.

Despite the smiling faces and buoyant attitudes I saw on the tarmac, I already knew the answer to my questions…

I grabbed the handrail and began to climb the stairs, a couple of steps behind Chris. My stomach was turning somersaults and I was only half-way up the staircase. Why? Was it a rush of relief that Chris was finally headed home and away from the long, grueling patrols and stress of combat? Or was it because of the pain I knew I would feel once I saw the empty seats...seats that should have been filled by vibrant, young men laughing, celebrating and headed home? Maybe it was simply a case of survivor guilt that Chris was safe? Maybe…

As I hit the doorway I took a deep breath and pressed on behind Chris as the line of 2nd SCR warriors slowly shuffled down the aisle. I silently watched as each warrior worked to keep from accidentally bumping the flight attendants with their weapon or rucksack as they navigated the narrow aisles. Their voices spoke in a whisper…excuse me ma'am, pardon me.

While this was unfolding I am ashamed to say that I began to dread the scene ahead. I was frantically trying to talk myself into not looking or thinking about…those empty seats that were coming.

Why? What was I afraid of? Letting my emotions slip out in public? As a former Marine, I can’t…how many times have I heard that real men don’t cry? Wait, isn’t this the same challenge that will now confront our warriors as they reintegrate themselves into a normal routine of life? How will they confront the challenges of rebuilding their mind, body and soul that combat has so ruthlessly unraveled? Furthermore, who will come alongside and help in their time of need?

As Chris cleared the galley and paused I peeked over his shoulder and there they were...rows of empty seats that stretched from window to window. I struggled to grasp the numbers and the emptiness of those seats. Had we lost that many? Did I lose count of my fallen angel blogs? My eyes began to fill…

I bit my lip as I glanced across at the other aisle and there too…warriors had paused to take in the enormity of it all. One reached out his hand and placed it on the top of one of the empty seats. I struggled to hear his words as he spoke in a reverent tone "...rest in peace Aaron and Zachary – I miss you guys."

As my heart was breaking, my mind was quickly flooded with those haunting lyrics from the Keith Anderson song, I Still Miss You…

I've talked to friends
I've talked to myself
I've talked to God
I prayed liked hell but I still miss you
I tried sober I tried drinking
I've been strong and I've been weak
and I still miss you
I've done everything move on like I'm supposed to
I'd give anything for one more minute with you
I still miss you

A warrior in front of Chris used his hand to cross himself as he whispered a prayer for 2LT Burks – a tear fell from his cheek and on to the empty seat.

I heard it land…we all did.

A number of warriors placed their hand on the shoulder of their buddy standing in front of them - helping them make their way through the vast emptiness. It was tough to watch but somehow encouraging. Their hand carried the same message of commitment it did in combat - I got your back…I am here for you.

As I drew along side the rows of empty seats I quietly prayed for the warriors filling the aircraft and the families of these fallen angels.

Names like Davis, Dozier, Johnson, Geiger, Marchand and Candelo were just a few of the many families that I lifted up in a silent prayer. I also thought about where these warriors fought as they wrote their final chapter of a hero's story…Baghdad, Sadr City, Sinsil, and Baqubah. Places we could barely spell, let alone find on a map, prior to this deployment. These warriors and locations are now written in red on our hearts and will forever be part of the storied history of the 2nd SCR.

Yes, I cried during my short stay at the empty rows and I am glad I did. I have nothing to be ashamed of - I will never forget these fallen angels. I am grateful for the sacrifice they paid to secure my freedom.

I made my way to my seat and as I slipped into it I wanted the long flight to begin so I could sleep away some of the pain I was feeling. What a bitter-sweet moment it had been...joy that these warriors were headed home...sadness that there were so many empty seats.

How many miles would it take to numb the pain? I wonder how many other warriors were thinking the same thing as the staircase began to pull away from the jet."

===================

The 15-month deployment of the 2nd SCR and other units that surged into Iraq in the summer of 2007 will be debated for years to come. There are always those who will be quick to criticize the decisions made by our leadership. However, no one should ever doubt that the warriors of the 2nd SCR gave their heart, soul and in many cases, their lives during the 15 months they were on the ground supporting the war in Iraq.This story is not over yet but the 2nd SCR contributions will never be forgotten...they were clearly written in red...

For those who will be in Germany to honor and welcome Chris and the 2nd SCR home - thank you. As you remember the sacrifice of those who paid the ultimate price at the Fallen Soldiers Memorial and Park in late November...consider it a privilege to stand in honor of those heroes and their families.

Finally, there are many outstanding organizations who stand ready to help our warriors and families work through the unseen scars of war.

Please don't hesitate to reach out...please...

There is too much at stake...

v/r,
- Collabman

Tribute...

2008-10-10T22:50:00.003-06:00

Afternoon - there are really no words to express our gratitude and thanks to the men and women of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. For me, I wanted to capture some of the scenes from their 15 months of combat deployment to Iraq and put it in a short movie - but this was more difficult than I imagined.

Which photos make the cut? So many to choose from, including the ones taken by Chris of his squad. Not an easy choice given all our warriors have been through...

As you watch the video consider the words of the song as we remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. Spend some time with those names that are listed on the right-hand side of my blog...we will never forget.

v/r,
Collabman

Lookout Over Diyala...

2008-10-09T17:03:00.007-06:00

Evening...

Happy Thursday! Another day almost finished - and another day closer to having our warriors home!

The info hounds were busy overnight and tipped a video covering the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. This video, courtesty of SSG Harwell, 14 Public Affairs Detachment, is a package on 2nd SCR soldiers who live in the Diyala Governor Center and pull security 24 hours a day. It is a good look at one of the missions for the 2nd SCR during their stay in the Diyala province.

Enjoy the video and please continue to pray for Chris and the rest of our warriors with the 2nd SCR!

Oh, there are still a few photos I would like to share but I am waiting for approval to use them....this blog is coming to an end and I couldn't be happier.

Almost there....

Chris, I love you - be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Advance Party - 2nd SCR Warriors Are Home...

2008-10-08T18:46:00.007-06:00

Families wait for the first 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment soldiers to arrive home to Vilseck from a 15-month Iraq mission on Thursday
Seth Robson/S&S

Evening...

Happy HD! Check out the latest story to hit the web on the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. The advance party is back in Germany - can you say yes!!!!!!

Enjoy the story and photos!!

Chris, we love you son and are so very proud of you!

Be safe!

v/r,

Collabman

==============================

Stryker troops returning to Germany
By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
European edition, Thursday, October 9, 2008

VILSECK, Germany — Fifteen months after they deployed to Iraq, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment troops are returning to Germany.

Fifty soldiers from an advance party marched proudly Wednesday morning into the Memorial Fitness Center at Vilseck where hundreds of family members and friends waited to cheer them home.

Staff Sgt. Jimmy Novak, 32, of Long Lane, Mo., found himself in the arms of his wife, Heather, and three young daughters whom he last saw a year ago during mid-tour leave.

The girls were wearing T-shirts they made for the event. Nine-year-old Tessa Mari’s said: "Move it, My dad’s coming home and I’ll run you over."

She spent the first few minutes of the reunion hugging her dad tightly as he held her sisters — Samantha, 5 and Karah, 3, in each arm.

"This feels awesome," Heather Novak said. "It has been a really long 15 months, and it is so wonderful to have him home."

Jimmy Novak, back from his third deployment, said he was impressed by how much his younger kids had grown during his absence.

He thought about the homecoming constantly during the last part of his Iraq mission. Now he’s looking forward to doing "absolutely nothing", he said.

"Just kicking back and relaxing … hanging around the house and watching movies and being with my family. We’re probably going to go downtown and look at some of the scenery and maybe tour a castle," he said.

Nearby, Capt. Matt Rasmussen, 29, of Conyers, Ga., got a big kiss from his wife, Jenny, who was clutching their daughter, Elena, 2.

"I last saw them in May when I was home on leave," said Rasmussen, who is the officer in charge of an advance party for the thousands of other 2nd Cav Troops due home in the coming weeks.

The Rasmussen family plans a trip to the Canary Islands after Thanksgiving, "… to just lay on the beach," he said.

Jenny Rasmussen said she’s glad to have her husband home.

"It is a huge relief and we are very proud and thankful," she said.

The unit’s rear detachment commander, Lt. Col. Thomas Rickard, said the returned soldiers will undergo a seven-day U.S. Army Europe program to transition them from a combat environment to garrison environment.

"One of the ways we protect our recently redeployed force is to ease them back to the garrison environment with strong leaders carefully monitoring soldiers’ travel, alcohol consumption and leisure activity," Rickard said.

Returning soldiers will have limits to alcohol intake and limits to travel distances for a short period while they become reacquainted, he said.

On Nov. 25, the regiment will honor fallen comrades by dedicating a memorial monument at Rose Barracks, then conduct a redeployment ceremony to uncase the regimental colors marking the official return of all its units to Germany, Rickard said.

Troops from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment pray after arriving in Vilseck
Seth Robson/S&S

Staff Sgt. Jimmy Novak, 32, of Long Lane, Mo. gets a hug from his daughter, Tessa Mari, 9, after returning to Vilseck
Seth Robson/S&S

Matt Rasmussen, 29,of Conyers, Ga. got a big kiss from his wife, Jenny, who was clutching their daughter, Elena, 2
Seth Robson/S&S

Set to Leave...

2008-10-07T17:13:00.011-06:00

U.S. Army soldiers from Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division leave a police station during a patrol with Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, who are set to leave after a 15-month tour, in Baqouba, 35 miles (60 kilometers) northeast of Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2008.
(AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

Evening...

Additional photos of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment on joint patrols with the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat (SBCT) Team, 25th ID, appeared today, courtesy of Maya Alleruzzo from the AP. I will continue to post these so you can peruse them and maybe catch a glimpse of your warrior.

Late last night I built a video tribute to the 2nd SCR which I will post later this week. Nothing special - just my way of saying thank you to Chris, his buddies and the entire 2nd SCR. As I sifted through some 1200 photos that have appeared in this blog my memory was cued to many different stories associated with the shots. It was interesting to see the photo and remember the context in which it appeared in a blog here...it's like these photos have been seared in my mind.

Our warriors have been through so much these past 15 months...we, nor they, will ever forget.

Oh, here is an article tipped by the info hounds that might be of interest to you: Iraq arrests top Qaeda female suicide bomber recruiter - "...police had caught the 38-year-old woman dubbed "Mother Fatima" in Hommadi village in Baquba's east side after a tip-off."

Enjoy tonight's photos and please continue to pray for all of our warriors.

Chris, stay with it buddy! Almost there....

I love you more than you will ever know!

v/r,
- Collabman

U.S. Army soldiers from Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment sprint across a street as they patrol with their replacements from 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division in Baqouba, 35 miles (60 kilometers) northeast of Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2008. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

U.S. Army soldiers from Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment stand guard during a patrol with their replacements from 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division in Baqouba, 35 miles (60 kilometers) northeast of Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2008. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

An Iraqi girl passes U.S. Army Lt. Matthew Frost from Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment during a patrol with the company's replacements from Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division in Baqouba, north of Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2008.
(AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

Transition Time...

2008-10-06T21:59:00.009-06:00

A U.S. Army soldier from Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, right, is seen on patrol with one of his replacements from Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, left, in Baqouba, Iraq, Monday, Oct. 6, 2008. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

Evening...

Some of the first photos of joint patrols for the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT), 25th ID as they prepare to replace the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Iraq appeared tonight on the web.

These photos paint a clear picture...don't you think? They need no words...

Enjoy!

Chris, I love you son. As I have said many times buddy, finish strong!

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

U.S. Army soldiers from Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, patrol with their replacements from Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division in Baqouba, Iraq, Monday, Oct. 6, 2008. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

U.S. Army soldiers from Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are seen through the haze of burning trash as they patrol with their replacements from Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division in Baqouba, Iraq, Monday, Oct. 6, 2008.
(AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

A herd of goats passes U.S. Army soldiers from Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment as they patrol with their replacements from 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division in Baqouba, Iraq, Monday, Oct. 6, 2008.

(AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

Passing the Torch...

2008-10-06T20:38:00.004-06:00

"He's off changing lives and making home a safer place for US to live, so thank him constantly.
He's maintaining the strength to do what we cannot, so we must be strong and support him with all that is in us.
And most importantly, tell him you're gonna be here when he comes home, and tell him you love him."

Ms. Erin

Evening...

Passing the torch. Yes, our time is finally here. It is time to hand this well-worn torch over to the next group of loved ones that will join the fight and support their warriors in Iraq.

As we approach the end of our long, 15-month deployment of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment to Iraq I thought it only fitting that you hear from the loved ones who supported our warriors every day they have been deployed...every day.

It is the least we can do for those of you who will now step forward and carry the torch of support for the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. Why?

My wife and I never received a Deployment-101 guide for parents. I waited for it to appear in my mail box but nope...nada...it never showed. I had many questions, like: What should I expect during the deployment? What are some things I can do to make it through this deployment and at the same time provide the support my warrior will need?

I expect you didn't receive a guide either. So, what did my wife and I do? Well, we found our way with the help of many wonderful, caring people that included our friends at work, church and via an on-line support group for the 2nd SCR established by Ms. Marti. You will read Ms. Marti's words of encouragement later on in this blog.

Oh, and I blogged...almost 300 blogs that served as an outlet for my emotions, concerns, support and encouragement for my son and the entire 2nd SCR. Many probably put you to sleep...kinda crazy, eh? Blogging my way through 15 months of a combat deployment. Maybe it's something you should consider...

Again, this blog is intended for those who are supporting the 1st SBCT, 25th ID replacing the 2nd SCR in Iraq. The parents, siblings, grandparents and loved ones that follow in our footsteps and carry the torch for the next 12 months.

We know you will carry it with the same conviction, commitment and love we all had for the men and women going in harms way...

Take a moment and read the thoughts of those who have almost finished this long, and at times, grueling journey. You will get a glimpse of what you can expect to encounter and how to effectively cope.

I wish someone had shared this insight with me last August...

Passing the torch...in their own words...

v/r,
- Collabman

==============================

What can you expect?

Expect to go through a lot of emotions, and to think about things you never really had to think about. For example, anticipatory grief (I just learned this like last week - wish I had known 13 months ago), imagining what it would be like if the worst happened and walk through it in your mind of the events that would take place. When you start thinking like that, you think you're crazy only to find out you are not, you are normal and more people than you realize go through the same things.

Expect that you will come to the realization that you are strong, that you can and will make it through. Expect that not everyone will understand where you are coming from and that is also ok, it doesn't make them bad, it just is. Some people are at a loss and do not know how to support you, reassure them and thank them for thinking and/or praying, and let any comments roll off.

Expect the time to go by quicker than you think and know that when all is said and done you are just as much a warrior as your soldier.

As a wife, I kept busy. I used the time to get back into school. Between a full time job, kids, school, the gym, church and social activities, I didn't have a lot of time to dwell. Those moments where I had nothing going on or had a tough time, I reached out to a couple people who knew and were also going through it.

I also journaled and I prayed a LOT in the very rough times where all I had were my tears and the Lord.

For my husband, I prayed, I listened and I told him what was going on at home. At times, I would feel guilty venting to him, because I didn't want him to worry but he assured me that it was ok and he needed to know these things- it kept him connected to home.

Send lots of cards, letters, pictures, goodies so they know you are thinking about them.

Lori
==============================

It has been a long 15 months for us, the mothers, fathers and wives of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.

I hope that you, the loved ones of the unit that will replace them in Diyala, will know that our hearts are with you.

It will be a very trying time. But here are some things that helped me through it:

Staying busy. One of the things that helped me immensely was signing on with Soldiers Angels to make blankets for wounded soldiers. This is a very creative project and it helps to make you feel in touch with the war effort.
Learning to use the Internet to find stories about the good work our troops are doing. Two good sites are Strykernews and MNF-Iraq.
Communicating with other mothers, fathers and wives by email. Many of the 2SCR families have been doing this since our soldiers' deployment began. It not only makes you feel less lonely, but also leads to a great exchange of information.
Sending care packages. Baby wipes and Qtips are great for cleaning rifles. Candy and cookies, etc. are always appreciated. In winter, it does get cold, and so extra heavy socks and hand warmers are good ideas then.

Sharyn
==============================

What I would like to tell the families and loved ones of the soldiers heading out to Iraq is this:

Pray hard. Whatever your faith base may be...trust in God to be your ear and your shoulder. The Sunday before my son, John, left for Germany prior to his deployment to Iraq our whole church family gathered round to pray for him. Everyone laid a hand on him and those that couldn't reach him touched those that could.

It was powerful and for John, very significant. He knew people at home were praying for him on a daily basis. Pretty soon, friends of his were asking him to ask the people that were praying for John to pray for them and their families too.

My son is no angel. He is as human and failing as the rest of us. But during his deployment it gave him peace of mind knowing people remembered him and cared about what he was doing. And in a place as torn and wounded as Iraq, it meant a lot to him.

Dianna
==============================

To the families of newly deployed soldiers:

Every individual will have to find their own battle rhythm. You might start out by scouring the websites for any information only to find it drives you crazy to know what is happening, so you quit doing that. Or you might begin by blocking out any information in order to stick by the ‘what I don’t know won’t hurt me’ mentality. Eventually you will work out the rhythm of knowing just how much info you need to get you through.

I’m sure all of us would recommend forming/joining a group that involves your soldiers unit/regiment. Talking with those who are going through what you are going through was the best way to get through each day. When you are down, they lift you up, and when they are down you can lift them up. You will get and give advice as needed. This is a huge learning experience, which during the first 6-8 months you stay confused, but finally start to understand parts.

Since your soldier will not be able to discuss much besides the weather you can actually get a little information here and there from some of the support group. (Always remember that you must follow the Operational Security guidelines as to what is discussed. Be sure this is one of the first things you learn. You do not want to put your soldier in harm’s way by discussing anything that can be intercepted by the enemy).

As you slowly get names of other soldiers in the same company as your soldier it is comforting to hear they checked in with their family. That kind of lets you know your soldier should be alright also.

For me, going to Daylife to look at the photos was therapy for me. I searched everyday for a shot of my son. I never found one, but it was calming to think there might be one today. Find different websites that involve your soldiers unit directly. They will post news as it happens and it will be exciting to see the good our troops are doing. Do not use common news as your source of information. Generally, they have it wrong or report only partial stories.

Most importantly, don’t allow yourself to worry yourself into an unhealthy state of mind. You must trust that your soldier has been well trained and will do their best to stay safe. Trust in that. And know that there are thousands praying for the safety of your soldier, God hears the prayers of His people.

Many Blessings!

Proud Army Mom, Terrie
==============================

My advice?

Surround yourself with people who are going through (or have gone through) what you are going through. Find them on line, or in your community. Find your own "battle buddies"; they will become your "family." They know what you are going through.

If you need medication to get through, ask your health care provider for something to help you.

Be aware that there will be great highs and great lows. You will cry. You never know when you will cry.

Be active with a group that puts together boxes for the military.

I bought a deployment bracelet and I have not taken if off since my son was deployed. I see his name every day. It opens up conversations with others. My whole family has one with his name and my co-workers bought one with his name on it.

I got a myspace account. My son had one, so did a lot of his friends. We made a deal and he would get on line when he could. He did not have to write me anything, but when he would log on, it would update the date on his space and I would know he was ok.

Likewise, I became "friends" with his buddies and that way, I found pictures of my son with his battle buddies. I also was able to send all of them a short note from time to time.

Get a web cam and learn how to use it.

I used Yahoo Messenger and left it up at all times of the day and night. If my son got on line and wanted to talk to me, we could talk. Even at my desk at work.

Sign up for Google Alerts for your unit.

Send cards. Send something every week. Things we sent: McDonalds Happy Meal toys (to give the little kids), funny seasonal stuff, lots of baby wipes, beef jerky, gum, Girl Scout cookies, popcorn, microwave meals, q-tips, battery operated fans, cds, dvds, white socks, tampons, Band-Aids, first aide stuff.

Hold each other tight when you can. Hugs are good.

Fly your flag.

Pray.

Nancy T.
==============================

My wishes for the families of the unit deploying is that their warriors have an uneventful deployment (although I know that the warrior ethos wishes to see action), and that you find someone like Collabman and Marti to provide information and emotional support to relieve the agony of isolation, loneliness, and uncertainty that you can certainly expect.

You can expect those anxious moments when an unexpected car pulls into the driveway or a stranger stands knocking at your door--I won't miss that feeling at all.

You should also expect to occasionally encounter that despicable journalist or politician who can only speak defeatist words that make us question if our cause is truly noble, worthy of the cost, and possible of victory.

These are some of the tough times that you can expect to encounter.

You will get through these tough times by finding a way to talk with other families, either through local support groups (which helped me), or hopefully through a support group (like ours) within their own brigade (which helped me even more).

I have found this to be a journey that has deepened my personal faith through my prayers for all our soldiers, and in the belief that our Heavenly Father is in control of my son's future.

These are some of the feelings that I have experienced, and how I have responded to them.

George
==============================

To the families of those about to be deployed,

Fifteen months ago my son left for Iraq and I had no idea of what to expect. I was not part of a military family, nor did I know anyone who was. I knew my family and friends would be there for me, but, would never fully understand my angst. That's when I decided a support group was what I really needed.

My first suggestion is for you to become part of a group. You can begin your own or find one through the internet. It is really helpful if it is a group from your soldier's brigade, regiment, company, etc. This is where you will find other families who are experiencing the same things as you. Throughout the deployment you will share fears and tears and smiles and laughs with people who become your extended families. I have formed friendships with people I have never met, but know they will last a lifetime.

For the first few months, you will be functioning surrounded by a huge cloud. For no reason at all, you might break into tears. It's okay to do that, even if people look at you as if you are nuts. Eventually, you will fall into your own battle rhythm and your day to day life will begin to fall back into place. That's when you actually begin to function, even sleep a little and the feeling of depression starts to let up. It really helps if you keep busy. My house has never been so clean because of the sleepless nights.

The one thing I think is really important for you to know is that the communication between you and your soldier won't be as often as you thought or would like. In this age of technology, I thought I would be in contact with my son daily. That didn't happen and sometimes as much as two weeks went by and there was no word. He knew he was alright and I really learned the meaning of "no news is good news."

When you do hear, your soldier won't be able to discuss what he/she is doing. This is due to Operational Security so, you learn to talk around things. From time to time your soldier may send you photos of downtime and you can search the internet for photos. If your lucky, you may find some of your soldier at work. Once again, search the internet. It will become your best friend for news.

No matter how hard you try, this deployment won't go any faster so take one day at a time. I didn't begin a countdown clock until there were about thirty days left. I am still counting so you know it isn't over yet.

Our soldiers are the best in the world and your soldier is highly trained to do his job. Remember, he is surrounded by his buddies who will watch out for him/her as he them and God watches over them all.

If at anytime through this deployment you need to talk with someone please don't hesitate to email me. I'll be more than happy to be there for you.

mljtexas@yahoo.com

God Bless you and your soldier,
Marti
Proud Mother of a 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment soldier
==============================

As I am thankful that my son has made it through his first deployment I am filled with joy, while at the same time my heart goes out to others just gearing up for the next 12 months (better than 15 months, though). Hopefully I may have something helpful to share...

What to expect...

Expect it ALL regarding emotions. For a really long time. Expect that others will not understand and say really bizarre things. Expect to cry a lot. Expect to feel extremely proud and protective and patriotic. Expect a lot of help and support when you find a group (physical or online) to share with. Not IF but WHEN. This is critical.

What you can do....

Make a friend at the post office, go to the same branch when mailing, its easier to get information and help from the same folks. Send LOTS of packages, keeps you busy, and your soldier loves all the things you send.

Learn to forward calls on your home phone to your cell so you don't miss those precious calls. (And they don't miss you).

The internet is your friend. Get to know GOOGLE, and create a myspace page to stay in touch and get clues as to whats going on (most soldiers have a myspace). I think AOL and YAHOO instant messaging is popular too. Get a camera for your messaging if poss. It's great to see them live when chatting and to see where they are.

Pay attention to security online. The bad guys have internet skills and want to know where the good guys are and what they are doing and when they are vulnerable.

DO NOT CRY if you can at all help it when you speak to your loved one. They need to know you are ok, and have enough to worry about. DO NOT WHINE OR FIGHT OVER ANYTHING, they are doing their best, and its all moot in life or death circumstances.

Learn your military jargon/lingo, and your geography. Wikipedia is your friend, too. It will help when your soldier rattles off FOB COP OPSEC NCO RPG, and acts like you should know this stuff!

Don't be afraid to research and ask the hard questions, if it will give you peace. You will wonder how that dreaded "knock at the door" is done, you will wonder how to get from the Dept of Defense an official list of wounded and killed during a panic attack after hearing something bad about the area your soldier is in and he/she has not called you for what seems like an eternity. This is normal and not the least bit morbid.

Don't obsess on the news or media of any kind. Very often, they are WAY off, and overly dramatic.

See your doctor if you have trouble sleeping or functioning. It's not brave to suffer.

Love yourself as you love your soldier. Above all, be proud. If I know nothing else, I know that WE ALL DAMN SURE HAVE EARNED IT.

Thank you for your part, good luck and Godspeed.

Stephanie
Proud mother of a Cavalry Scout, United States Army
==============================

If I were asked by a young lady of a warrior headed to Iraq, "What should I expect during this deployment?" I would say a few things..

First of all, it's not going to be easy, but that's probably a given. I had my soldier give me his dog tags (shh...) before he left, and they stay on my neck and serve as a constant reminder of his sacrifice. People see the chain, they ask me about it, and it strikes conversation in all sorts of circumstances. Talking not only with him, but also about him, all the time keeps him around spiritually since we have to compromise the physical aspect until he's done. Have some of his stuff, and use it.

Second of all, you HAVE to have people with whom you can talk who sincerely understand your situation. God blessed me with a best friend from high school with whom I've kept contact for what feels like forever whose other-half attends West Point and is deploying soon. She understood the distance and although her soldier was still in the states, having the distance-factor as a common denominator gave us a connection. I also kept in contact with Collabman and his wife (!) which was such a blessing considering we were both missing the same warrior. You can join all sorts of groups either online or through your church or at your school which support our soldiers' efforts...

Which leads into my third point: stay involved in your warrior's life and daily affairs. Keep them updated. If you don't hear from them for a week, try not to wig out, and write them online and by snail mail, telling them about things that are going on at home, who's asking about them, who's praying for them, and what you anticipate doing with them when they get back. Learn about what they're doing and how you can help from home. Most of the time, you will either be asked to send a care package or to simply pray for them, two things of which all of us are more than capable. Send baked goods and pictures and cards for each holiday. Get creative! I always write inside jokes on the outside of my flat-rate boxes which I send so he knows exactly which one is his. (And while we're on the topic of the postal service, don't freak out if it takes a box almost 2 weeks to get to him. The system can be fickle sometimes.)

Finally, be patient and have faith. I know that my faith keeps me going not only each day but in all circumstances, simple or difficult. Meditate, pray, do whatever you do and believe that he's coming home to you in no time at all. He's off changing lives and making home a safer place for US to live, so thank him constantly. He's maintaining the strength to do what we cannot, so we must be strong and support him with all that is in us. And most importantly, tell him you're gonna be here when he comes home, and tell him you love him.

Erin
==============================

First, let me say thank you for raising a child who is willing to leave everything that's comfortable and "normal" to serve his/her country in a place that's anything but comfortable and normal. These are remarkable men and women and we're so proud of them.

About expectations - here's my advice: Don't have any. My husband and I were sure that with today's technology, our son would email or call us at least once a week and send pictures often. They do have internet access most of the time and access to phones some of the time, but they have very little time to use them. And when they do have free time, much of it is spent resting. These guys work hard and it takes a lot of time and effort to wait in line to use the computers and phones. Don't worry, they'll call or email when they can and you'll learn to appreciate each and every word when they do.

That's why it's so important to find a support group online who can help supply information when things are quiet from your soldier. The emotional support they can provide is absolutely invaluable as well. If you can't find one, start one. Ours started with a simple comment on the Stryker Brigade News website. And it blossomed from there.

One expectation that it's safe to have: your soldier is well-trained and they're protected with the best armored vehicle ever invented. Read up on the Stryker, watch shows about it on the military channel, look online for information. The more you learn, the more you'll realize that these guys are well-protected while they're on patrol. And the training that they received before they deployed is much more than adequate to prepare them for what they will face. These soldiers are prepared! And though most of them left as boys, they all come home as men. They grow up in ways that you can't even imagine.

If you have friends who pray, ask them to pray for your soldier. I truly believe prayer is what has kept our soldier safe thus far and it certainly has helped us through some tough times. It won't be easy, but you'll get through this. We did.

Ms. Collabman
==============================

I can honestly say that Manny's deployment has made me learn to live my life during his deployment a second at a time...not even a minute...as I remember you writing on one of your first blogs.

Many times I would be driving and would start crying just missing him and praying to the almighty God to keep him and all the others safe. Wow, I don't think any parent/spouse/family can ever imagine or prepare for something like this. One thing that I did learn is not to take anything for granted and not to sweat the small stuff.

Lastly, I would like to say that if it would not have been for our support group, and the many encouraging words that were just said at the perfect time, I would have gone insane. As a result of my son's deployment, I have made some everlasting friends, which I have never met, but have been there for me every step of the way. I could not have made it without them.

As to my warrior, all I could say is that I was there for him unconditionally at whatever times he needed me. There were days...that I would spend hours in the IM on a weekend talking to him about sports, etc., and I know that helped him remain sane.

Maria

One Unit, One Fight...

2008-10-05T15:33:00.018-06:00

2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Soldiers wait in line to meet and greet country music singer, Trace Adkins, after performing some of his popular songs during a concert at Forward Operating Base Warhorse, located in Diyala, Iraq, Sept. 23, 2008. Forward Operating Base Warhorse is one of several stops on Adkins tour of Iraq.
Spc. Opal Vaughn/14th Public Affairs Detachment

I remember Daddy brought me here when I was eight.
We searched all day to find out where my grand-dad lay.
And when we finally found that cross,
He said: "Son, this is what it cost to keep us free."
Trace Adkins/Arlington

Afternoon...

As the time comes for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment to start their transition it is also time for me to quietly shut down this blog. I have only a few more to share in the coming week or so...

For many, it is probably - thank goodness! :-)

It has been a ride I will never forget...especially all of the wonderful people I have met virtually via this blog. Thanks for all of your words of encouragement and faithful prayer for Chris and the rest of the 2nd SCR during these 15 months of combat deployment. Ms. Collabman and I appreciate all you have done!

Also, keep an eye out here for a couple of my final blogs...

Passing the Torch - Read the heartfelt words from a number of mothers, fathers and loved ones of the 2nd SCR that were penned for the loved ones of the inbound replacement unit for the 2nd SCR. See their thoughts on what to expect and how to cope with a deployment - I wish I would have had this kind of insight last August...

Written in Red - Over the last few weeks I have been thinking a lot about our warriors and the emotions that will be flowing as they climb the staircase and board an airplane in Kuwait, an airplane that will take them home to Germany. These men and women have looked forward to this day with great anticipation and excitement for quite some time now. I have too. Finally, headed home and out of harm’s way…but I think there will be more going on here than meets the eye. I have to wonder…

On to today's blog...

I wanted to share a couple of great stories from DVIDS that came out this weekend along with a video of 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment as they inventory a weapons cache in As Wad, Iraq.

The first story is about a father and son serving with the 2nd SCR in Iraq. One word...wow! Give it a read...

The second one talks about a concert Trace Adkins put on at Forward Operating Base Warhorse for our warriors. I am grateful for entertainers who remain humble and give of their time to our warriors. Special thanks to Trace Adkins...

Chris, I love you son and look forward to that next call! I continue to remember your sacrifice every day.

Be safe!

v/r,
Collabman

Father, Son: One Unit, One Fight
By Spc. Ryan Elliott
14th Public Affairs Detachment

Associated Images:

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Despite already having served 15 years of service to country, Staff Sgt. Brian Pritchett, with 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, re-enlisted indefinitely two months ago. Now, following in his father’s footsteps, Spc. Bobby Pritchett, a driver with 3rd Squadron, 2SCR, is doing the same.

With his right hand raised and the other locked by his side, standing at attention with a smile on his face, Pritchett began to recite the Oath of Enlistment during a re-enlistment ceremony at Forward Operating Base Warhorse, located in Diyala, Iraq, Sept. 19, 2008.

Col. John RisCassi, 2SCR regimental commander, presided over the ceremony.

Soldiers re-enlist all the time. Volunteering to continue to serve one’s nation while deployed is also very common. But when both father and son, both in the same unit, re-enlist at the same time, it is history in the making.

“This means a lot to me,” said Brian. “At first I was apprehensive about my son joining. But he told me he was going to join and he did. The determination he showed me let me know that he wanted to do something with his life and to help protect his country.”

Most military members joined the service straight out of high school. Aspirations of earning a lot of money, getting a free education and traveling the world are many reasons for young adults to join up and serve.

“I initially enlisted because I wanted to see the world,” said Bobby. “I wanted to see what I could do in the Army and what I could do for my country. It means a lot to me to serve. I am going to keep doing it until I’m done.”

For this auspicious occasion, having his father present at the re-enlistment ceremony was very important for Bobby.

“Having my father here was very special for me,” Bobby smiled. “I haven’t seen him in over a year, so it was very important for me to have him at my re-enlistment ceremony.”

The two Pritchetts, father and son, are not the only ones with a passion to serve. Service to country runs in the family.

“My father was in the Air Force,” Brian added, “he served his country and now I and my son are doing the same. I only wish that I had known that my son was going to re-enlist during this tour. I re-enlisted indefinitely two months ago but I would have waited so that we could have been sworn in together.”

Looking toward the future, Brian anticipates great things for his son.

“I hope that my son will continue to serve his country and one day, he will hopefully become an NCO and lead troops like I have,” Brian grinned.

======================

Trace Adkins, American Man
By Spc. Opal Vaughn
14th Public Affairs Detachment

Associated Images:

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A tall, robust man emerges from the crowd. Plainly dressed in a green shirt and khakis, neatly kept goatee and long pony-tailed hair, Trace Adkins, country music singer, takes up his guitar and strums a few strings.

Whoops and hollers, even screams of “I love you, Trace,” roars from the crowd.

“Well uh, I guess I should introduce myself,” Adkins smiles as the crowd of 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Soldiers goes wild during a concert in the dining facility at Forward Operating Base Warhorse, located in Diyala, Iraq, Sept. 23, 2008.

The waiting is over. The crowd soon starts to hush as Adkins plucks a couple more strings and begins his first song, “Merry for Money.”

For over a decade now, Trace Adkins has made a name for himself in the contemporary country music scene with his instantly recognizable baritone voice. Even with fortune and fame, Adkins insists on remaining humble and true to self.

His tour of Iraq is no exception.

“I’m not going to pat myself on the back and say that I’m that big of a deal,” Adkins stated.

Even when stricken with a cold flu, Adkins continues to push himself in support of the troops.

“Since I’ve had a record deal, I’ve only canceled three shows because I broke my leg and the other two because I had emergency surgery,” Adkins stated.

“I’ve done shows with kidney stones, broke legs and lots of other injuries, but I just don’t cancel shows,” Adkins said clearing his throat. “And I know I didn’t do a good job today and I feel bad about that but my voice is completely gone.”

Shaking his head, Adkins continued, “I very seldom ever get sick and this is the most in-opportune time for it to happen. But the medics here have been taking real good care of me, and I appreciate that.”

Before Adkins became a country music superstar he was just another average guy working hard to make a living. The Louisiana native sang in a gospel quartet, played football for Louisiana Tech and worked as a pipe fitter on an off-shore drilling rig before deciding to move to Nashville in 1992. Three years later, Adkins was signed to a major record label.

Married now for over 20 years, Adkins music deals with love, loss, sex and blue-collar realities. A few of his well-known songs are “Honky-Tonk Badonkadonk,” “Til’ the Last Shots Fired,” “American Man” and “Fighting Words.” All of his music explores the good times in life and the bad times in life.

When it comes to performing his hit songs, Adkins prefers to play them live.

“My favorite part about performing is the instant gratification that you get when you do something that a crowd likes,” Adkins stated. “When you’re in the studio, there’s no one there clapping or having a good time. I prefer doing live shows because I love to interact with the fans.”

Looking around at all the Soldiers faces, Adkins began to strum his guitar and close with the last song of the evening, “Arlington.”

But before he began to sing, he took a moment to say a couple of words to the Soldiers. He began by saying, “I’m here on behalf of the mothers and the fathers, the husbands and the wives, and the children and the friends - just to say thanks.”

“On behalf of a million people, I say thank you, and I support you,” Adkins added. “There are a lot of ‘But People,’ but you’ve got to put your money where your mouth is. You cannot just go running around saying you support the troops and not actually get your boots on the ground and not do it.”

Adkins continued to address the Soldiers while he played his guitar.

“I would feel guilty if I walked around saying that I supported the troops and not do it. I support you guys, period.”

A roar of applause and whistles hailed throughout the dining facility, and then Adkins began to sing “Arlington” to close the concert out.

With a standing ovation, Adkins stood and said, “Thank you and God bless you.”

After the concert was complete, Adkins remained behind to take pictures and sign autographs for Soldiers.

======================

B-roll of U.S. Soldiers from 4th Platoon Outlaw Troop, 4th Squadron, Stryker Cavalry Regiment (Outlaw 4/2 SCR) inventorying caches found by IP's in As Wad, Iraq. U.S. Navy video by Petty Officer 2nd Class Angela McLane.

Ready and Waiting...

2008-10-03T21:59:00.011-06:00

"Like kids who can’t wait for Christmas, families here have put up the decorations in anticipation of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment’s return."

Seth Robson/S&S

Evening...

This is a blog I have waited almost 15 months to write...

It is time to start looking ahead to the homecoming. Preparations are being made and decorations are going up...wow - I am ready, how about you?

Before you read the S&S article, check out this blog:

Body building Iraq Style... Here is a snippet:

"Did you ever try and compete in a Strongman competition, when it was 120 Degrees? How about competing in a Bodybuilding contest, outdoors during a sand storm? Oh yeah and while you are doing this there are people out there just waiting to blow you up too. The men and women of the 3rd Squadron of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment needed something to take their minds off being far from home and family and these two contests did just that if only for a little while." SGT Caleb Pike

Please continue to pray for Chris and and the rest of the warriors of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.

Chris, I love you son. I remember your sacrifice every day - finish strong!

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

=======================

Vilseck ready for troops
Families, town anticipate 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment return

Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes
European edition, Saturday, October 4, 2008

VILSECK, Germany — Like kids who can’t wait for Christmas, families here have put up the decorations in anticipation the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment’s return.

Stryker soldiers have been in Iraq since August 2007 and are expected home in November. But this week, on-post streets in Vilseck are lined with U.S. flags and yellow ribbons. Fences near the main gate are plastered with signs welcoming home individual soldiers or sub-units within the regiment. One features the silhouette of a soldier mowing a lawn from a wife looking forward to some help with the yardwork.

Off-post businesses are also looking forward to the soldiers’ homecoming.

Simone Bauernfeind, who works at a coffee shop in Vilseck’s main square, said she sees Americans every day and will welcome the extra business that returning troops will bring.

Rita Leitl, who owns a butcher shop in town, said many of her customers are Stryker wives. But when asked about the return of their husbands, she said: "Trouble."

But one of Leitl’s customers, retired tank mechanic Adam Goebbuer, told her not to worry and added that all the businessmen in town will be happy to have the Strykers back.

"They bring a lot of money into the city. They go to guest houses and rent homes off post," he said.

A few incidents of fighting is normal, Goebbuer said.

"I was in the German army," he said. "When you came back from four weeks in the field, in the first week, you drink too much. It’s the same with the Americans."

Vilseck Mayor Hans-Martin Schertl said the town’s curfew, which requires bars to close by 1 a.m. on weeknights and 2 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday mornings, will stay in place but added that soldiers can stay out until 5 a.m. at Cheers, a disco just outside the town limits.

Cheers is in a building near Vilseck’s Main Gate that used to house the Independence Club. The club was shut down in December 2006 after a series of fights involving soldiers that saw the regiment place it off limits.

Schertl said he hoped there would be no problems this time around.

"I’ve got good contacts with the garrison and MPs who will drive around and make sure there are no problems," he said.

Work is under way to build an underpass allowing people to drive or walk from Rose Barracks into town without crossing the railway tracks, he said.

Schertl also expressed condolences for the Strykers killed in action in Iraq.

He said he hopes the unit stays in Vilseck for a long time and does not have to deploy again in the near future.

A community-wide celebration is planned for Nov. 25.

Definition of a Dragoon...

2008-10-02T20:16:00.014-06:00

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Angela McLane, assigned to Combat Camera Pacific, documents two Soldiers assigned to Outlaw Troop, 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment providing overwatch security during the opening of Khalis hospital in Khalis, Diyala, Iraq, Sept. 28, 2008.

Photographer: Spc. Ronald Wright/Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

“The Dragoon is a great symbol that embodies many of the values and qualities that 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Soldiers possess to this day.”
LTC Bryan Denny, deputy commander, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment

Evening...

The info hounds were busy overnight and tipped off a number of stories, photos and a video covering the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. I think you will enjoy all of them as they show the 2nd SCR as a complete package - conducting combat operations, working with Iraqi leaders in the Diyala province and relaxing at Forward Operating Base Warhorse.

I will say it again...these men and women have done a marvelous job throughout this deployment. We have so much to be thankful for.

Our warriors are indeed the backbone of America...

Definition of a Dragoon

Former MLB Players Boost Morale

Coalition and Iraqi Army Forces Conduct Clearing Operation

Iraq Ministry of Agriculture Conference at Forward Operating Base Warhorse

Chris, I love you son. We continue to cover you with prayer...

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

2nd SCR - Hispanic Heritage Night

14th Public Affairs Detachment
2 Oct 2008 Baqubah IQ

Package about deployed 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Soldiers celebrating Hispanic Heritage Night and also commemorating the end of a 15 month deployment. Produced by Staff Sgt. Christina Harwell.

2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Soldiers met Drew Brees, Milo Ventimiglia and other stars at the Forward Operating Base Warhorse dinning facility as part of the 66th USO summer troop visit desinged to boost the morale of Soldiers overseas.
Photographer: Spc. Ryan Elliott/14th Public Affairs Detachment

2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Soldiers stand in line at the Forward Operating Base Warhorse dinning facility to see televison and NFL stars, who took part in the 66th USO summer troop visit. Photographer: Spc. Ryan Elliott/14th Public Affairs Detachment

Gen. David Petraeus awards a coin to Spc. Naima K. Strickland, preventive medicine specialist, Regimental Support Squadron, 2nd Stryker cavalry Regiment, July 26, 2008, for the work she has done improving the living standards and ensuring the health of Soldiers deployed to Iraq.
Photographer: Pvt. Alisha Nye/14th Public Affairs Detachment

Iraq - The Next Generation...

2008-09-28T18:37:00.009-06:00

Evening...

Back on September 11, 2008, I wrote a blog called Vivid Memories. I had been tipped that CNN had interviewed a number of our warriors from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Baquba, Iraq for a video they were producing. I got busy and never went back to look for it...

Tonight I had some free time and went hunting. Sure enough...there was the video...

Take a look - maybe you will see one of your warriors that Arwa Damon, CNN International Correspondent, wrote about in the article posted on my 9/11/2008 blog.

Note the patches, the faces, the location.

These are today's warriors and heroes who are working their way through 15 long months of combat. Warriors so young on 9/11/2001 they had no idea they would become part of the next generation to serve in harm's way on foreign soil.

Listen to their views as they take care of business and grind through each day.

I am so proud of these men and women...

Enjoy the video and thanks for the sacrifice your warrior is making. I appreciate all they are doing...

Chris, I love you son!

Be safe!

v/r,
Collabman

Iraq: the new generation
CNN's Arwa Damon talks to young troops serving in Iraq, many of whom were barely teenagers during the 9-11 attacks.

Golden Hour...

2008-09-27T21:07:00.009-06:00

Spc. Cortni Berger, a combat medic with the 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment’s evacuation platoon, shows Iraqi Police how to properly use a protective gauze. Berger is a native of Clio, MI.
Photo by Spc. Anthony Hooker

"The golden hour is the first sixty minutes after the occurrence of multi-system trauma. It is widely believed that the victim's chances of survival are greatest if they receive definitive care in the operating room within the first hour after a severe injury."

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...

v/r,
- Collabman

===================

They’re no damsels in distress: Medics from 2nd Stryker Calvary Regiment Help Shape the Battlefield
Expeditionary Times
Story by: SPC Anthony Hooker

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Spc. Cortni Berger and Pfc. Nicole Walsh, combat medics with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment’s evacuation platoon, show the kindof enthusiasm of young adults not far removed from high school. Jokes and smiles come easy when they’re in conversation, and the pair see themselves as simply doing their job. But by doing their job, Berger, 21, and Walsh, 23, give their peers and patients a different outlook on the world - a world that must acknowledge the presence of female Soldiers on the battlefield.

The Department of the Army has declared that women are excluded from military occupational skill positions which routinely engage in direct combat, according to DA pamphlet 611-21, table 13-1. Thirty-nine military occupational specialties ban females, but thousands of women since World War II have worked in combat zones and today’s volunteer force is trained and qualified to defeat any opposition with deadly force.

Berger, a native of Clio, Mich. said that anyone in this conflict understands that the enemy isn’t worried about classifying troops by gender or job.

“Everyone always says over here there’s no front line,” said Berger. “The enemy doesn’t meet us head on. They just don’t care.”

The two estimate their vehicles have taken six direct hits from improvised explosive devices.

“We’ve been hit by little IEDs where the convoys just continued to roll,” said Berger. “We’ve also been in an IED attack that has stopped the convoy.”

Often paired together on convoys, Walsh said she’s familiar with and confident of Berger’s skills.

“When we’re out together, we seem to find those IEDs . . . but I know she will do a good job if something happens,” said Walsh, a native of Milford, Conn. “We have credibility with each other.”

Thirteen of the 16 people in the duo’s section are women. The line units they support were hesitant to accept the squadron at first, but Walsh said the heat of battle flashed a light on her team’s abilities. The skeptics became believers.

“Our aid station has so many trauma patients come in – the line units usually help us manage the incoming casualties,” said Walsh. “When they see us working on these people, we gain their credibility. They learn we can do our job when the time comes and they get more comfortable with us.”

Walsh finished her thought, saying that nobody cares if a guy or girl is helping them if they’re seriously hurt.

Walsh said she also has experienced some rejection when treating Iraqi civilians. The clash of cultures may have left both feeling frustrated but Walsh said her dedication to duty may have left a permanent impression.

“Maybe he could see that women are able to be smart and competent,” Walsh said. “Not much is expected from their women, so I hope I gave him an idea that ‘Wow! Women can do things.”

The two assist in other duties as well. They can support a unit with armed defense if a vehicle breaks down or someone needs assistance, serve as occasional instructors when visiting Iraqi Police stations and help facilitate the turnover of humvees to the Iraqi Army.

Master Sgt. Keith Tester is Berger’s and Walsh’s platoon sergeant. Tester, a 21-year veteran, said it’s not uncommon to see a woman lay down suppressive fire. “We’ve had (women) man .50 caliber gunner positions,” said Tester. “If someone gets hurt, a female may have to take over the gunner’s spot, depending on the situation.”

Walsh and Berger know that their presence in combat will draw attention. They acknowledged the significance of their acts, but said they were only following in others’ footsteps.

“Clara Barton, who founded the Red Cross, said ‘If I can’t be a Soldier, I’m going to help a Soldier,’” said Walsh. “She was a nurse receiving guys from the front line. Now, we have an opportunity to get our guys and help them during the golden hour (the first hour, considered the most critical to determine a rate of recovery).”

Readiness...

2008-09-27T19:17:00.005-06:00

U.S. Army Europe commander Gen. Carter Ham, right, checks out Cpl. Evan Fay's Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle on Forward Operating Base Key West, Iraq. Fay is with the 16th Sustainment Brigade out of Bamberg.
Nancy Montgomery / S&S

Evening...

The news hounds tipped an insightful article from Stars & Stripes that is almost like sitting in on a brief from General Carter Ham, Commander, US Army Europe (USAREUR) on his assessment of the readiness of his US Army units. He shares his concerns on preparing warriors for deployment and what those redeploying, read that as the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, might expect...

I found it useful. For those of you with warriors in the 2nd SCR, I hope you do too...

Still no word from Chris. Thanks for those who are praying for him and the entire 2nd SCR. We are not there yet...so please continue to hold fast...

Chris, I love you buddy. Hang tough...we got you covered in prayer...

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

==================

USAREUR commander makes the rounds on Iraq visit

By Nancy Montgomery, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Monday, September 28, 2008

Related Stories:

Gen. Carter Ham, new USAREUR commander, seemed the most enthused of soldiers making a re-enlistment commericial at Camp Speicher last weekend. They did it in four takes.

Fueled mostly by Gatorade and the occasional bag of chips, Gen. Carter Ham last week made his first visit as U.S. Army Europe commander to his troops in Iraq.

The general, who once commanded all forces in northern Iraq, wanted to know how well troops — in the midst of their deployments in an ever-changing battleground — thought their training back in Germany had prepared them.

"I’m confident of the plan," Ham said. "I’m also confident that the plan won’t unfold perfectly."

He had already been to Hohenfels; it was the first place he went after taking USAREUR command at the beginning of September.

"That was no accident," Ham said. "The most important thing we do is prepare our units to deploy."

He liked what he saw in Hohenfels but questions remained.

"The mission rehearsal exercise is a fairly generic exercise design — vaguely Iraqi, a mix of ethnicities, religions and tribes," Ham said.

"If we know a brigade is going to Kirkuk, we can make Hohenfels into Kirkuk — but should we do that?" Ham said. "The downside is if you prepare them for a more peaceful area and then they get shifted (to a violent one). That’s not so good."

He also wanted to talk about how best to redeploy troops that are almost certain to deploy again in a year, with new senior leaders.

"First AD is going to turn around very, very quickly," Ham said. "I better have them ready to deploy in a year. That’s going to be a challenge to get the right senior leaders. We can’t wait for the normal summer move cycle."

As for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment from Vilseck, the challenge is a little different. That unit will be leaving about half its 300 Strykers in Kuwait, which means many Strykers will have to be obtained quickly for training.

"I don’t have deployment orders," Ham said. "But my sense is, for a short while anything that gets reduced in Iraq could very well get shifted to Afghanistan. Maybe by the end of ’09, we’ll see more dwell time, which would be a good thing.… Fifteen months deployment, followed by 12 months home, followed by 12 months deployed — that’s a lot to ask."

Those were large concerns, but not the only reason for the visit. Ham also just wanted to see the troops.

"Here’s how it works," he said to a group of soldiers with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st AD, in the Forward Operating Base Hammer chow hall. "You ask whatever you want, and I decide if I want to answer it."

One lieutenant asked about more training time at their Baumholder base. Another asked when they would be getting Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles. Ham answered, then asked about their quarters.

Silence.

Finally, one soldier said, "Sir, they had us living out of closets."

"So, not so great," Ham said. "So, it’s far, far less than ideal. The reality is we ain’t there yet. But we owe you better than that."

But what’s owed and what can be provided isn’t always the same thing. Units set to return to Germany after long deployments — including the soon-to-redeploy 2nd SCR — will be over strength when it soon returns to Germany.

That’s partly because of lower-than-predicted casualty rates.

"That’s the good news," Ham said.

The bad news is quarters for single soldiers are expected to be more crowded, not less — possibly with three to a room in some cases.

"It may be three to a room; it might be something better than that. I don’t know yet," Ham said. "If I had a magic wand and could put every soldier in a 1-plus-1 (a two-room suite with a bath in the middle), I would do that. I haven’t found that magic wand yet. Still lookin.’ "

Ham is a warm, avuncular figure, white-haired at 56, who clearly enjoys being around troops. He pats backs, drapes an arm around shoulders, gives attaboys, and makes jokes, often at the mess hall — one of the few meals he was seen to eat — Ham cracked up a group of MPs.

When Capt. Solon Webb, commander at a Baqouba outpost, briefed him on the unit’s activities and said he had found young Iraqi officers to be more flexible and can-do than their senior officers, Ham smiled.

"Some would argue the U.S. Army is no different," he said.

Ham asked Webb about casualties. One soldier was killed by small-arms fire in Baghdad but none since, the captain said. "We’ve been lucky."

"There’s an element of luck to it," Ham replied. "There’s also competence and expertise and good leadership."

Ham mists up when he recalls a young brain-injured soldier he knew who partially recovered and turned up one day in his wheelchair for a Pentagon visit. He’s a proponent of keeping wounded soldiers in the Army if they can contribute, even if they can no longer haul a rucksack.

The suicide bombing in a Mosul mess tent within his command four years ago that killed 22 people and wounded 69, most of them soldiers, remains a signal event.

"It’s hard to go on after something like that," Ham said. "You say, ‘Yes, I failed.’ But I also learned. You say, ‘Am I better able to make a contribution now because of that?’ And I think I can. It still hurts. Every day I think about that."

Ham went to Camp Speicher to see Maj. Gen. Mark Hertling, 1st AD commander and commander of northern Iraq forces; and the 18th Engineer Brigade. He went to FOB Key West to see the newly modularized 16th Sustainment Brigade, where he happily listened to logisitics briefs for what seemed like hours.

He spent much of his final day in the back of a Stryker, traveling among several eerie combat outposts in old Iraqi buildings in Diyala province — sparsely furnished but with elliptical machines — to see soldiers with the 2nd Stryker Combat Regiment.

He climbed into MRAPs, checked out barracks, toured offices, handed out U.S. Army Europe coins, made a re-enlistment commercial, posed for photos, attended briefings and office calls and asked a lot of questions, even when he knew the answers.

One officer at FOB Warhorse told him that training for roadside bombs — and, most recently, booby-trapped houses — should be more realistic.

"It’s not just a puff of smoke and a bang," the officer said. "You need to have something that gives that 30 seconds of stun."

Ham knew about the lackluster simulations. Although when his convoy was hit during his Iraq command, another officer said, Ham had simply dusted himself off, checked his watch and continued on to his meeting in Mosul.

After his tour, though, Ham said, he needed time and space to regroup, and he’s adamant that soldiers get the same.

"Coming out of Iraq, I said, ‘Give me a long weekend, and I’ll be OK,’ " Ham said.

His boss, Gen. George Casey, insisted Ham take 30 days leave.

"A week into it, I realized I needed 30 days," Ham said.

Ham agreed there needed to be more dramatic IED simulations, possibly in Romania, where training is less constrained, and that mission rehearsals should reflect the trends of female suicide bombers and booby-trapped houses. He was leaning toward making the mission rehearsals more area-specific.

He’d also decided more sophisticated role-playing and cultural training was needed for officers to engage with Iraqi leaders, sheiks, tribal elders and others.

All in all, Ham said, he was reassured by what he heard on the trip.

"I was very pleased. The commanders felt they were very well prepared," he said on the flight back to Heidelberg. "I also gained some insights — no major change of direction, but areas of emphasis."

Back at the FOB Hammer chow hall, Ham had given a sort of benediction to the young soldiers with many months to go in their 15-month deployment.

"Your families — know that they love you, and you love them," he said. "Keep that dialogue alive. The days in Iraq are endless, but the weeks and the months go by pretty quickly."

Feeling the Heat...

2008-09-26T18:32:00.010-06:00

"There are pockets in Diyala where there are some insurgent groups that are able to operate or some militia groups that are capable of operating, but not with a whole lot of freedom and not with much reach. Their position has really been undermined."
LTC Rod Coffey, commander, 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment

Evening...

Another week gone...another day closer...another birthday in the sand box for my youngest son. No word from Chris on his birthday yesterday so he must be busy. We saw his fingerprints virtually which indicates he is ok...but I sure would like to talk with him. In due time...

The info hounds were busy overnight. However, not much to show for their efforts. There was an article in the Middle East Times from UPI Correspondent Richard Tomkins that speaks to the work of 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry in the Diyala province. These young warriors have done a marvelous job - I am so proud and thankful for their sacrifice.

Feature: AQI feels the heat
By RICHARD TOMKINS (UPI Correspondent)
Published: September 26, 2008

MUQDADIYA, Iraq, Sept. 26 (UPI) -- Al-Qaida terrorists attempting to reinfiltrate central portions of volatile Diyala province from hideouts along its northern and eastern fringes apparently are finding an increasingly inhospitable landscape from which to operate, according to U.S. military officials.

The Iraqi army, with American troop support, is continuing Operation Bashaer al-Kheir (Promise of Good), an offensive launched at the end of July by as many as 50,000 soldiers and special Emergency Response Police units to sweep cities, towns and villages to root out al-Qaida in Iraq cells and other extremist gunmen in what has long been a major transit route for terrorists to enter and leave Baghdad.

Local police, meanwhile, stage raids in their jurisdictions to round up extremist suspects. They do so with warrants issued by the courts after citizens have filed formal, corroborated and sworn complaints with government prosecutors, something unheard of just a few months ago.

"There are pockets in Diyala where there are some insurgent groups that are able to operate or some militia groups that are capable of operating, but not with a whole lot of freedom and not with much reach," said Lt. Col. Rod Coffey, commander of the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. "Their position has really been undermined.

"You really don't see AQI attacking people of any stripe in this sector anymore. But we do see some organizing, some recruiting effort, but it (AQI) certainly doesn't have any strength here."

Coffey's troops are based near Muqdadiya, a market town north of the provincial capital of Baquba. Baquba was the capital of AQI's self-proclaimed Islamic State; Muqdadiya and the nearby agricultural region known as the "bread basket" was its headquarters for training and storing weapons. Successive U.S. military operations late last year and early this year drove senior AQI leaders and many cadres out of the Muqdadiya and bread basket areas north toward Mosul in Nineva province and also east over the Hamrin ridge to the more desolate and sparsely populated sectors next to the Iranian border.

It's from the border area that AQI operatives are trying to reinfiltrate the Muqdadiya area to visit close family or start new cells.

"The low-level players who have ties to the area are starting to come back in ones or twos," said 1st Lt. Steve Saxion, a platoon leader with 3/2. "They don't have a lot of time to stick around. Normally if they cross back, they're around for about a week before we get them."

U.S. detentions of AQI and other extremists number between seven and 10 per week, according to Coffey. Iraqi detentions are much higher. According to available figures, at least 1,600 suspected terrorists have been rolled up by Iraqi Security Forces in Diyala province since the end of July.

In a small, concrete cell of the police headquarters in the town of Dali Abbas recently sat two men accused in warrants of being members of an AQI kidnap and murder squad. Iraqi Police Col. Mahmoud Tayeh Mahmoud said the two were grabbed after they slipped back into the area to see their families. Both had been active in the Dali Abbas area during 2006-2007 sectarian battles and had warrants out for their arrests.

In August, he said, his station -- working with Iraqi Security Forces -- arrested eight al-Qaida suspects who were believed to be trying to organize a new cell.

"They are not very active now, but we have to continue to have operations everywhere," he said.

The number of al-Qaida in Diyala province at any one time is not known. Many are believed to have fled north to the area of Mosul, one of the last urban redoubts of AQI; others are believed to have slipped across the Iranian border, where they are said to have sanctuaries.

The figures put forward by Coffey and Lt. Col. Douglas Sims II, deputy commander of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, for hard-core Iraqi AQI cadre is 50 to 60. The number of foreign fighters could be about half that number.

Iraqi army operations in Diyala province are being conducted by elements of the 5th Iraqi Army Division, which fought Shiite gunmen in the southern city of Basra in the spring and later took control of northern Sadr City in Baghdad.

=========================

Chris, I love you son. Hang tough and stay strong!

v/r,
- Collabman

Best of the Best...

2008-09-24T20:07:00.021-06:00

Sgt. Wayne Racine, a field artillery surveyor with Charlie Battery, Fires squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, fires a round in the prone un-supported position during the Dragoon Warrior Competition at Forward Operating Base Warhorse located in the Diyala Province, Iraq. The competing Soldiers are required to fire in three different positions; prone supported, prone un-supported and the kneeling position.
(SPC Opal Vaughn/14th Public Affairs Detachment)

Your throat is dry and swallowing doesn’t help at all. It hurts to breathe because your lungs feel like they’re on fire. Beads of sweat roll down the temples of your forehead. Your boots feel like cement blocks as you slowly pick up one foot after another; each foot dragging against the rocky surface of the desert sand. The blisters on your feet scream in agony as they rub against the insides of your boots.

SPC Opal Vaughn/14th Public Affairs Detachment

Evening...

For those tracking...happy hump day. We can't have many more can we? Ok, maybe a few...

The info hounds tipped a story that was carried in an Iron Strong Daily titled Dragoon Warriors Test Mettle. I really enjoyed this read - imagine the effort put forth by the warriors who represented each squadron from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. Think the competition was keen? You know it...

Reread the opening para above...what more could we ask of these warriors?

Chris, I love you buddy!

Winding down and taking care of business...I couldn't be prouder son!

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

--------------------------
Dragoon Warriors Test Mettle
Story and photos by:
SPC Opal Vaughn/14th Public Affairs Detachment

Your throat is dry and swallowing doesn’t help at all. It hurts to breathe because your lungs feel like they’re on fire. Beads of sweat roll down the temples of your forehead. Your boots feel like cement blocks as you slowly pick up one foot after another; each foot dragging against the rocky surface of the desert sand. The blisters on your feet scream in agony as they rub against the insides of your boots.

Can this be real? It’s 125 degrees outside and you are carrying over 60 pounds of gear meant to save a life. Now, imagine doing this every day except bullets are flying around you and your battle buddy is calling out for medical assistance and everywhere you step might be a possible Improvised Explosive Device.

This situation can be a reality and is the environment in which the Army trains its Soldiers.

A competition for bragging rights brought out some of 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment’s best of the best to showcase the training they received while deployed, during the Dragoon Warrior Competition at Forward Operating Base Warhorse located in the Diyala Province, Iraq.

Two-man teams were selected to represent each squadron at FOB Warhorse. “Each squadron was told to identify one non-commissioned officer and one lower enlisted Soldier to represent their unit in this competition,” said 2SCR regimental Command Sgt. Major Victor Martinez.

“Some squadrons chose to do boards, unit competitions and evaluations, to select their top Soldiers,” Martinez said. “The Soldiers involved will have to evaluate a casualty, qualify at the range, clear a house born improvised explosive device and a number of weapons tasks, just to name a few things.” In the past, most jobs in the Army consisted of field artillery, infantry or scouts. The new generation of Army has a healthy mix of Soldiers who work in many specialties. The same applies to the competitors for the Dragoon Warrior.

“There is a mix of medics, comm, infantry and supply Soldiers. They have no idea what to really expect,” said Martinez. “You don’t know if you’ll get hit by an Improvised Explosive Device or if you’re going to get shot at. The intent is to recreate what one might expect going outside the wire. There is no telling what could happen.”

“The Dragoon Warrior Competition is very physical,” Martinez stated. “These guys will be running all over the FOB to different locations. Each task is used to test the training knowledge these Soldiers have gained during this deployment. The faster that they get the tasks done the more points each team gets,” Martinez added.

Bragging rights for being the best can be a motivational booster for the competitors. “We all know Fires squadron is the best,” said Spc. Joseph Santoro, Company A, 5th Squadron, 2nd SCR.

“This competition is good for morale,” Santoro continued. “Each of us is rooting for our own unit to do well because we like a little competition. Some of the guys are coming here and looking real tired but they continue to press on because they want to be known as the best.”

Being known as the best and earning the title “Dragoon Warrior” is not for everyone though. “I’ve never competed in one of these competitions but I’ve been through plenty of boards to know that it can be tough,” said Staff Sgt. Kyle Stallings, Alpha Fires squad leader, 5th Squadron, 2nd SCR.

“Having NCO’s dually involved in the competition is a great way to build esprit de corps within the unit as well. If a lower enlisted Soldier sees me going through each task with him, he can be confident that as an NCO I lead from the front. And eventually he will continue the cycle when he becomes an NCO, knowing that his leadership is willing and able to do the same,” Stallings added.

Some of the events required during the competition are for one Soldier to act and the other to supervise. For example, evaluating a casualty requires one Soldier to perform first aid techniques on their teammate by giving them an IV.

At another station, the competitors practice their memorization skills while being put under intense stress. After which, the two Soldiers are required to then clear a house, laced with IED, an irate hostage and several booby traps throughout the house.

“The rifle qualification range is a big part of the competition too,” Stallings said. “The Soldiers are required to fire in three different positions; prone supported, prone un-supported and the kneeling position. All of the events are timed which adds stress to the already stressful environment.”

All of these tasks test the skills Soldiers use on a daily basis while deployed.

Each Soldier competing in the competition, hand selected by their individual squadron’s to showcase who the best really is ready, willing and able to bring on the competition. But there can only be one true “Dragoon Warrior.”

Platoon Sergeant, Staff Sgt. Ronis Gutierrez, with Charlie Battery, Fires squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment tries qualifying at the rifle range during the Dragoon Warrior Competition, at Forward Operating Base Warhorse located in the Diyala Province, Iraq.
(SPC Opal Vaughn/14th Public Affairs Detachment)

Staff Sgt. Christopher Coyle, a squad leader with 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, sits before a board of sergeant’s majors, answering questions that test his military knowledge. The board was just one of several tasks to complete as part of the Dragoon Warrior Competition at Forward Operating Base Warhorse located in the Diyala Province, Iraq.
(SPC Opal Vaughn/14th Public Affairs Detachment)

Black Widow...Update

2008-09-23T21:11:00.027-06:00

Evening...

It remains very quiet on the news front for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. No photos or articles that I nor the info hounds could find.

On the 25th, Chris will celebrate his 2nd birthday on the ground in Iraq - he will turn 21. We are hoping for a phone call from him on his 21st birthday but we are not sure. Given that we haven't heard from him for almost two weeks his ops tempo may just not allow it. We shall see...

For those who are planning on sending an email wishing him a happy 21st birthday - thanks!

Last year I celebrated his birthday virtually with this blog:
20th Birthday...On the Streets of Baghdad...

As I stated in that blog...the pictures were his mother's idea ;-) (Really, they were...)

Tonight, I was tipped by Justin (thanks sir) to a video from CNN (Cal Perry) on how Iraqi authorities are working to train Iraqi women to help mitigate the problem of female suicide bombers. You may remember a number of blogs I wrote on the threat of Black Widows to Iraqi citizens, police forces and U.S. forces...

Black Widow...

Hunting...

Poised...

Here is the CNN video on the progress being made to counter this threat. If your browser is Firefox make sure you have the latest version (3.0.2) running to ensure the video loads and plays properly.

Confronting female suicide bombers

Additionally, I encountered a sister video from DVIDS that was produced by SSG Christina Harwell, 14th Public Affairs Detachment in Iraq. It is a B-roll about female Iraqi police cadets graduating from the Ashcroft Training Center in the Diyala province. This video includes interviews with:

-- CPT Melody Faulkenberry (US)

-- SFC Patricia Baiocchetti (US)

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

Chris, I love you buddy. Almost 21, eh? Wow!

I continue to pray for you everyday...you are always on my heart.

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Dragoon Rugby...

2008-09-18T20:01:00.015-06:00

Rugby Football Club coach, Chief Warrant Officer Anthony Triola, a senior intelligence technician with Regimental Headquarters, Headquarters Troop, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, weaves through a hoard of players during a practice game of rugby at the soccer field at Forward Operating Base Warhorse located in the Diyala province, Iraq, Sept. 13, 2008.

Spc. Opal Vaughn
14th Public Affairs Detachment

Evening...

Is it October yet? Seems to me the month of September has come to a screeching halt, eh? I can't move the days along any faster so I will just have to adjust to this slow battle rhythm. This just goes with the territory...

As I sift through the news each night hunting for information on the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, I still grimace when I see Seven U.S. troops killed in Iraq helicopter crash. Even though it doesn't involve the 2nd SCR I still ache for the families and loved ones of this Team of Fallen Angels. That knock on the door that will come seven times...seven names in a roll call - each that will be answered with a deafening silence.

What appeared to be a routine helo convoy from Kuwait to Balad air base turned deadly in the black of night. A stark reminder that our warriors will remain in harm's way until the day they redeploy out of country...

I still remember the night the news broke on the loss of our Team of Fallen Angels. It took my breath away...

Never again will I be able to see a headline like the one above...without feeling some of the emotions that hit that night in January. I will always remember those six words from CPT Mike Stinchfield, Commander, Company H, 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment - will you?

"Six KIA? Damn. Are you sure?"

I will never forget...

There was a video from a few weeks ago that I never got around to posting. So, if you're game, grab your NVGs (Night Vision Goggles) and ride along with 4th Squadron, 2nd SCR as they conduct a night raid to capture a suspected arms dealer in Baqubah, Iraq. You will get a feel for the inherent risk of operating under the cover of darkness as you hang out the open UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and scan the ground below through your NVGs. You can almost feel the warm, sultry air blowing against your face...

As the 2nd SCR prepares for redeployment, it is great to see them looking to the future. I stumbled across the article below which was carried via DVIDS. I think you will enjoy it...

Imagine playing rugby in the moon dust and heat of Iraq...yowsa!

Chris, we love you buddy! We are counting the days...

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Dragoon Rugby Football Club member, Spc. Chris Erikson, a Seattle native with Regimental Headquarters, Headquarters Troop, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, catches a rugby ball during a practice game of rugby at the soccer field at Forward Operating Base Warhorse located in the Diyala province, Iraq, Sept. 13, 2007. The DRFC, based out of Vilseck, Germany, is warming up for redeployment and for the new season to begin to play against other foreign national teams.

Spc. Opal Vaughn
14th Public Affairs Detachment

Dragoon Rugby Football Club Trains for Redeployment
By Spc. Opal Vaughn
14th Public Affairs Detachment

FORWARD OPERATING BASE WARHORSE, Iraq - William Webb Ellis was a boy who didn’t like the rules of football. Ellis is credited as the founder of rugby and now, a statue of Ellis stands at the intersection of Lawrence Sheriff Street and Dunchurch Road, at Rugby School in Rugby, Warwickshire England.

In 1823, during a football game, Ellis picked up the ball and took off running towards his opponent’s goal. And so, the game of ruby was born. At least that is how the popular story is told.

Over time, though the rules have changed since the early 1800’s, rugby has become a very popular sport and is played all around the world. It has become a pastime for many enthusiasts, including some Soldiers with 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. These Soldiers form the Dragoon Rugby Football Club, which began out of Vilseck, Germany, and was brought to Iraq.

With redeployment nearing, the DRFC players got together and held a practice game at the soccer field at Forward Operating Base Warhorse located in the Diyala province, Iraq, Sept. 13, 2008.

“We have about 30 guys and two females that compose our team,” said DRFC member, Spc. Chris Erikson, a Seattle native with Regimental Headquarters, Headquarters Troop, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.

“Obviously we can’t all get together and play as a team because we’re all spread across Iraq,” Erikson explained, referring to the DRFC, the official team for 2nd Str. Cav. Regt. “Chief Triola, he’s the coach. He has helped to get some of us together for practices. We’re starting to build the team back up so that as soon as we hit Germany we can start competing again,” Erikson smiled.

“I helped to start the Dragoon Rugby Football Club back in 2007 in appreciation for the game,” said DRFC coach, Chief Warrant Officer Anthony Triola, a senior intelligence technician with RHHT, Str. Cav. Regt.

“I’ve been playing for 20 years and I’ve been coaching for about five years now,” Triola stated. “We played our first season last year. But it was halted because of deployment. So when we initially started talking about getting the team back together, all the guys got real excited. The excitement is understandable. It means we’re about to redeploy.”

According to Erikson, the DRFC is part of a Bavarian league made up of all the club and league teams in the area. So the DRFC not only plays other U.S. teams, but plays many German rugby teams as well.

“It’s really fun to play some of the German teams because they always have these playing fields set up in the middle of nowhere,” Erikson grinned. “Besides, we all go out for drinks and stuff afterwards.”

Getting in shape and building the team back up before redeployment takes a lot of hard work, but it is something the team members are willing to work toward.

“Conditioning is the hardest part of rugby,” Triola stated. “Here in Iraq, a lot of us are tied to a desk. So getting outside and running gets us out of that mind set. But the dust that hangs in the air isn’t any help either.”

Triola continued: “They say that rugby is a hooligan sport played by gentlemen. I try to emphasize to these guys about the importance of letting out aggression on the field but do not get into any altercations. There’s no physical contact while here in Iraq because we need everyone to be able to do their jobs. But back in the rear, it’s full on contact.”

Getting back on the field in game mode takes a lot of effort too.

“The idea right now is to just do a little bit while still in country so that when we get to Germany we can hit the ground running,” Erikson stated. “We’re not as skilled or as crisp like some of the other teams we’ve played. But we work hard and play aggressively.”

The return home still remains to be the next milestone for the DRFC. But they are ready and willing to return to Germany and get in the game.

“Hopefully, when we get back we can start playing right away,” Erikson stated. “I look forward to the competition.”

Vivid Memories...

2008-09-11T21:15:00.016-06:00

Pictures of the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks on the Pentagon, left, and the World Trade Center, right, are seen at a memorial ceremony for U.S. troops marking the seventh anniversary at Camp Liberty in Baghdad, on Thursday, Sept. 11, 2008.
(AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

"Part of me forgot just how young some of the soldiers fighting out here are, with all their gear on they seem much older than their years. The ones we were talking to were barely in their teens when 9/11 happened, too young to realize the global impact that day would have and how it would forever alter their lives."
Arwa Damon/CNN International

Evening...

It has been a while since I blogged, eh? Well, there just hasn't been much to write home about...and a call from Chris today confirmed what I suspected - it is quiet for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. So quiet that Chris is pretty bored...

Yes, he is doing well and ready to wrap it up...to get on the road...Chris is ready to head home. I expect your warrior has similar feelings. I am just as ready. The days are crawling by now but we can handle it...we've been through worse.

The photos and articles on the net today tell the story of other units working the neighborhoods of Baghdad, Mosul and elsewhere. I am thankful for their service and that they are getting the attention they deserve. The 2nd SCR had their time in the spotlight and our warriors performed superbly. It is almost time to move on. Our warriors have earned it...

Seven years ago...has it been that long? As I reflect back on 9/11, I returned to a morning that was almost surreal. I remember it clearly. San Diego...a business trip that had started with such great promise. It changed as soon as I saw the news that morning. Next, a long ride home in a rental car with Dave...lost in our thoughts. Our families - we couldn't wait to see them...to hold them close. Little did we know.

We were instantly at war that started with a sucker punch from radical extremists. Things would never be the same. My youngest son would be headed for Iraq...and a 15-month combat deployment with the 2nd SCR.

So, where were you? Are the memories as vivid for you as they are for me? I expect they are.

Did we have any clue how the world and our lives would be changed? That our paths would crisscross in a sandbox called Iraq? Never in our wildest dreams...

Chris, thanks for the phone call today. We are so glad you are doing well and looking forward to getting home...we too are ready!

Finish strong buddy...stay with it to the very end. Your buddies are depending on you to be there every step of the way.

I love you!

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

=======================

September 11, 2008
“We are doing the best we can to prevent anything like that from happening ever again”

Arwa Damon | BIO
CNN International Correspondent

“Hot, its always hot…” the soldier responded, the collar of his flak jacket soaked in fresh sweat, mixed with that of months of patrolling. We’d only been out an hour, already drenched in sweat, and we’re only carrying about a third of the weight that the soldiers are. Two hours after they return to their base in downtown Baquba, they are out again, flak jackets still wet from the previous patrol. They live on a combat outpost. Sleep whenever they can, work out at the gym. There’s no TV and very little escape from combat. For these soldiers the routine of 9/11 will be like any other day.

We were just embedded with the 2nd SCR in Baquba, and among other stories we’re covering, we were also talking to young troops about 9/11.

Part of me forgot just how young some of the soldiers fighting out here are, with all their gear on they seem much older than their years. The ones we were talking to were barely in their teens when 9/11 happened, too young to realize the global impact that day would have and how it would forever alter their lives.

“I was in the 8th grade I think. Art class. I didn’t know what was going on, they just sent us home,” one of them told us.

And now seven years on, they know it. For some it prompted them to join the military. For all, it shaped their military career. They are in Iraq fighting America’s so-called “war on terror”, though many not really aware that Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11.

The guys are exhausted. You see it in their eyes, in the way that they move, in their speech that seems to be in slow motion. They’ve been here for 13 months now and its taking its toll. They joke about the next deployment being Afghanistan.

And in the words of one New Yorker, they want America to know something on 9/11.

“Just know that we are doing the best we can to prevent anything like that from happening ever again.”

Complicated...

2008-09-03T20:45:00.012-06:00

U.S. soldiers with 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment walk past death notices written on black sheets in Jalula, where a suicide bomber killed 26 people last week.
Photo by Sean Kimmons/S&S

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.
Sean Kimmons/S&S

Evening...

How many more hump days do we have and are you counting? Did you glance at the calendar over the holiday weekend?

Not much news on the wire about the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment. However, I did stumble across an article from the Stars and Stripes on the continued efforts of 3rd Squadron, 2nd SCR in the Diyala province.

Complicated...read the article below and note the words of LTC Coffey. Make no mistake, Diyala remains a tough area. Who better or more seasoned to work this area than the 2nd SCR?

Enjoy the article...

Chris, we continue to pray for you and your teammates. Stay focused, stay alert, stay strong.

I love you son!

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Police-hiring feud may have led to Diyala blast
By Sean Kimmons, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Thursday, September 4, 2008

JALULA, Iraq — Zuher Kader al-Kerwii stood in front of the scarred, burned police gate surrounded by rubble — a reminder of the suicide bomber that rammed it last week with an explosive-laden car, killing 26 and wounding 49.

It must have been an eerie task for the policeman, who clutched his AK-47 rifle while scanning the horizon. He was standing on the same spot where his uncle and two friends were killed in the Aug. 26 attack. A crowd of police recruits for the town’s emergency response force had been waiting outside the building to pick up uniforms and weapons when the attack occurred.

"It was a huge explosion," al-Kerwii said Monday.

"I am not scared," he said of future attacks. "I will continue to fight and take revenge for the loss of my brothers."

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.

Some locals blamed disgruntled sheiks angry at how another local sheik handpicked Arab men from his tribe to be on the exclusive police force. The town’s police chief, Lt. Col. Ahmed Mohammad Khaleel, said the Sunni sheik swayed the unit’s commander to hire his men.

Khaleel went on to claim that the Sunni tribe had tried to put former al-Qaida fighters or sympathizers into the unit and gain control of the area’s checkpoints.

The next day, Maj. T.J. Siebold, the U.S. squadron’s operations officer, traveled to the headquarters to get Iraqis’ take on the bombing. Some of the unit’s officers hinted that Kurds were behind it in some way.

"They said Kurds weren’t directly involved but may have facilitated in the car bomb," said Siebold, 40, of Nashville, Tenn.

The squadron’s commander, Lt. Col. Rod Coffey, has heard plenty of exaggerated Kurdish and Arab views in his sector lately.

"I don’t necessarily believe everything they say," he said. "A lot of people right now are making false accusations."

However, Coffey did tell Khaleel on Monday that he’d try to get U.S. intelligence teams to screen alleged al-Qaida loyalists in the emergency response unit, which calmed the Iraqi commander down a bit. The U.S. troops also promised to look into the exact source of the bombing.

"We’ll develop this for weeks and weeks and find out who did it," said Coffey, 47, of Arnold, Md.

A soap opera of sorts continues to unfold in northern Diyala province, where strife between Kurds and Arabs has been mounting. Iraq’s Shiite-led government recently sent Iraqi troops to push out the Kurdish "Peshmerga" militia from the province after they refused to leave.

Near Jalula, the Peshmerga militia still controls the town of Khanaqin, while Iraqi soldiers have it surrounded. Kurdish leaders and the Iraqi government are currently in talks to handle the standoff without bloodshed.

"What we need to concentrate on is that no one does anything stupid," Coffey told Khaleel and other Kurdish officials. "We should all stay on the same side fighting al-Qaida and leave it to politics."

Coffey describes his sector as "complicated."

In 2007, violence peaked between Shiites and Sunnis. And before that, Kurds who were displaced under Saddam Hussein’s Arabization efforts moved back into northern Diyala, forcing many Arabs to move elsewhere.

Peshmerga fighters then advanced south and held positions to rid al-Qaida elements from the region. Coffey believes some Arabs sought al-Qaida protection out of fear of the emerging Kurdish influence.

"They don’t want to be absorbed or controlled by the Kurds," Coffey said, adding that his unit is looking into other reasons why some Arabs have supported al-Qaida.

On top of this, some Kurdish leaders assume Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki’s government is shoving Kurds out of the province for political reasons.

"Maliki hates the Kurds more than Saddam did," said a frustrated Khaleel.

Coffey quickly countered with a grin: "He’s got a long way to go to be as bad as Saddam."

OPFOR...

2008-09-01T17:47:00.030-06:00

Evening...

Chris called yesterday morning and it was great to hear his voice and talk with him. His mother and I covered a lot of ground during our conversations and learned some details about a number of changes coming for him...here is what Chris shared:

Chris passed his board for promotion to Sergeant and is now in the promotable zone. Depending on how the points play out he could pin on as early as 1 October 2008. He was very excited about the promotion and increased responsibility - not to mention the extra $$$. He indicated he had prepared for the board and was ready with what they threw at him. I enjoyed hearing the details of the board as they brought back memories of my promotion boards while serving in the U.S. Marines. We are proud of Chris, just as we are very proud of Jake and Aaron, his two older brothers. All three are very special young men. We love all three of them more than words can express.

Chris also shared that he had been selected to join the 1-509th (Airborne) Infantry OPFOR (Opposing Force) unit at Fort Polk, Louisiana. Say what...what is an OPFOR and what will he be doing? Chris will use his 15 months of combat experience in Iraq to provide contingency training for the Army's light infantry and special operations forces preparing for future deployments. He will be part of the OPFOR unit which plays the role of the enemy during war game scenarios. His unit, the OPFOR, will employ current tactics, techniques and procedures (TTP) providing realistic, stressful, and challenging combat conditions for Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) units prior to their deployment.

There are three Major Training Centers that utilize home-based OPFOR units for the US Army:

The National Training Center or NTC at Fort Irwin, California - home unit is the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment or BLACKHORSE
The Joint Readiness Training Center or JRTC at Fort Polk, Louisiana - home unit is the 1st Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment or GERONIMOS
The Joint Multinational Readiness Center or JMRC (formerly known as the Combat Maneuver Training Center or CMTC) at Hohenfels, Germany - home unit is the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment (Separate) or WARRIORS

What does an OPFOR do during the scenario? Chris' unit will conduct similar TTPs that the 2nd SCR encountered in Iraq. I expect you have become familiar with these tactics and their acronyms during our journey...

Cell structure with mobile, dispersed C2: Every soldier must understand Regional Leader's intent, priority information requirements (PIR), and high payoff targets (HPT).
Civilian clothes, weapons cached; blend with local populace and civilians on the battlefield
Communicate by cell phone, messenger, and walk about radio
Improvised explosive devices (IED), vehicle-borne IEDs, Mortar/Rocket Attacks, RPG/Small Arms Attacks, Suicide Attacks
Aggressive Information Warfare Campaign

If Chris and the next OPFOR unit can replicate realistic, chaotic combat operations and help save a U.S. Army warrior's life through this training...I am all for it. I know Chris is excited and looking forward to the opportunity - I am too. Oh, don't worry...there will be no blog to suffer through :-)

If you are interested, here is a video that was made some two years ago as the US Army began to apply what was being learned in Iraq as part of realistic training conducted at the JRTC, Fort Polk, Louisiana. One look at the video and this will all make sense...

So, what does the future hold for your warrior? I continue to pray for all of the warriors serving with the 2nd SCR. Some will remain with the unit, others will move on to another unit and some will leave the military to begin a new life. Regardless of their decisions they will forever be in my heart...I will never forget.

Before I close, let me leave you with some current news on the 2nd SCR as they continue to take care of business in Iraq. This one is about Eagle Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd SCR...

Chris, I love you son!

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

Some troops say Iraqis need to do more
Story and photos by Sean Kimmons, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition
Tuesday, September 2, 2008

(See photos at end of story)

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.

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.

"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."

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.

An Iraqi girl waves to a soldier as other soldiers with E Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, interview the adults of the household (background) about security issues in Tahrir.

Iraqi children curiously watch on as soldiers with E Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, search homes during a knock-and-search raid in Tahrir.

A soldier with E Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, secures the area as other soldiers ask an Iraqi man (left) questions on security in Tahrir.

Staff Sgt. Matthew Beaudette, 27, of Ocala, Fla., with E Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, clears an Iraqi home during a knock-and-search raid in Tahrir.

A platoon leader with E Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, asks an Iraqi teenager if there are concerns with security in Tahrir.

Iraqis look on as soldiers with E Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, exit a home during a knock-and-search raid in Tahrir.

Soldiers with E Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, enter an Iraqi home during a knock-and-search raid in Tahrir.

Looking Back...Moving Forward

2008-08-30T10:38:00.017-06:00

A boy walks down a street as U.S. army soldiers attached to Eagle Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment patrol a street in southern Baqouba, the capital of Iraq's Diyala province, 60 kilometers (35 miles) northeast of Baghdad. A month into a U.S.-backed Iraqi security operation, the Diyala provincial capital and surrounding towns remain scarred by sectarian tensions and violence. Diyala has proven one of the toughest pieces of Iraqi real estate to control. (AP Photo/Marko Drobnjakovic)

"But signs of stability are emerging in Baqouba and surrounding areas as a new U.S.-backed Iraqi offensive enters its second month. The unanswered question is whether the latest attempt to pacify Diyala will succeed where others faltered."
Kim Gamel/AP

Afternoon...

I hope you are spending time with family and friends this holiday weekend. Labor day...what comes to mind? A day of rest? A symbolic end of summer? Picnics, barbecues, water sports? For me, it is a look back...

Last year it was the first major holiday for my wife and I with Chris and our warriors from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment in Iraq...in harms way. I remember I struggled trying to get my mind around it all...here is a look back. Where were you and what were your thoughts?

Monday, September 3, 2007
A Season of Thoughts...

"Nancy and I decided to spend this Labor Day holiday in a quiet way, reflecting on our loved ones, the sacrifice of those deployed around the globe and just how fortunate we are to live in this great country.

....

As I spend time with family, friends and co-workers I am fascinated by each one's perspective on their thoughts for the season and what's important to them.

Many share stories of sending their kids to school - some for the first time, some talk about their favorite football team and how they will fare this season, some speak of the weather and the welcomed relief the fall will bring...others look forward to engagements, weddings and upcoming holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. All important events in their lives that I am glad they can rejoice in and share with me. Now, compare that to my thoughts...could they be any different?

My thoughts are of my 19 year old son who is deployed to Iraq in one of the most complex and hostile combat urban environments in Iraq...of how he will deal with his first contact with the insurgents and the PID (Positive Identification) requirement he will have to deal with...of the emotional and physical stress that these men and women are under 24x7 as they adjust to combat operations in an unforgiving climate...of how Chris will deal with his emotions if or when a fallen angel occurs in the 2SCR...

....

As I said early on, this is going to be raw at times...so be it...I am struggling a little right now as it's been some time since we have heard from Chris. I trust that he is fine, God is in control and he is surrounded by an army of angels...but I still doubt and wonder during the quiet moments...

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Wow, did I blog that last year? Isn't it fascinating to look back - a year ago we were early in the journey and we had no idea what we would encounter, yes? At least I didn't. It was hard but we got through it...and now we continue to move forward.

As we celebrate Labor Day 2008 we are not quite to the end of this journey but we are getting closer...and I can't wait till I can write my last blog! I imagine you can't wait either.

So, enjoy your holiday weekend and remember our warriors in Iraq - take a moment and whisper a prayer for them all...

Oh, there was an interesting article today from the AP on Diyala and the challenges that remain. Give it a read...

A U.S. army soldier from Eagle Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment jumps over a puddle as he patrols in Baqouba, the capital of Iraq's Diyala province, 60 kilometers (35 miles) northeast of Baghdad.
(AP Photo/Marko Drobnjakovic)

A U.S. army soldier attached to Eagle Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment takes his position on a street in southern Baqouba, the capital of Iraq's Diyala province, 60 kilometers (35 miles) northeast of Baghdad. (AP Photo/Marko Drobnjakovic)

Bombs, sectarian tensions still scar Iraq's Diyala
By KIM GAMEL
Associated Press Writer

The government offices in Iraq's Diyala province are encased in thick blast walls, a shield against suicide bombings. Nearby buildings are pockmarked from fighting between U.S. troops and Sunni insurgents.

Diyala has proven one of the toughest pieces of Iraqi real estate to control despite several major U.S. and Iraqi military operations.

The stakes are high. The corridor between the provincial capital of Baqouba and Baghdad, 35 miles to the southwest, has been a key conduit for the trafficking of weapons and foreign fighters into the Iraqi capital.

Diyala's proximity to Iran also makes it a strategically important to the United States, which accuses Tehran of supporting Shiite militias.

But signs of stability are emerging in Baqouba and surrounding areas as a new U.S.-backed Iraqi offensive enters its second month. The unanswered question is whether the latest attempt to pacify Diyala will succeed where others faltered.

The U.S. military has pinned its hopes on improved Iraqi security forces, with the government sending thousands of additional troops to the province for the new push.

"The Iraqi surge is the major differentiator with previous operations," Michael Knights, a military and security analyst with the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, said in a telephone interview.

Also in its favor is a U.S.-funded Sunni revolt against al-Qaida in Iraq and a Shiite militia cease-fire that have sharply diminished the ability of extremists from both sides of the sectarian divide to operate.

But while those factors have been key in tamping down violence nationwide, they have been slower to take hold in Diyala. The area has a volatile mix of Sunni and Shiite militants along with desert terrain and dense palm groves that provide refuge. A large Kurdish community in the north adds to the mix.

In Baqouba, which the al-Qaida-front Islamic State of Iraq once proclaimed as its capital, shot-up buildings and crumbled sidewalks are the legacy of the fierce fighting between U.S. forces and insurgents.

The provincial government offices are surrounded by concrete walls nearly 15 feet high that protect the officials from bombings that have struck the bustling street outside.

Blasts and gunfire occasionally rip through the night, but music from weddings and other celebrations also can be heard.

The main market is no longer the site of public execution-style killings that were once common among the Islamic fundamentalists. An Iraqi National Police brigade deployed to the area for the offensive has set up headquarters at the city's sports stadium.

"We were suffering," said Samira Hamid al-Halina, whose son was killed by al-Qaida in Iraq.

"We feel better, more secure and safe. We can go outside without being frightened," she added, standing under a bunch of dates ripening on a palm tree as Iraqi troops searched her compound in the Sunni enclave of Harbatiliyah, 15 miles northeast of Baqouba.

But green flags commonly associated with Shiite militias are still planted at intersections and even some local Iraqi police checkpoints, signaling underlying sectarian tensions.

That raises concern that the security gains could prove fragile without progress by the Iraqi government in promoting reconciliation between the fractured ethnic and sectarian groups.

Knights said upcoming provincial elections that can distribute power more equitably will be key. Sunnis boycotted the last popular vote in 2005, allowing Shiites to take a disproportionate share of the power in the province of 1.5 million people.

"Security can freeze Diyala so it doesn't get any worse, but politics is needed to solve it," he said. "The only way of really solving Diyala is through the political roots, such as provincial elections and a more balanced provincial council."

In a recent example of high-level distrust, the provincial council ousted the longtime Shiite police chief Maj. Gen. Ghanim al-Qureishi earlier this month amid allegations of abuse against Sunnis.

A dirt road leading through a cluster of palm trees near Baqouba shows another side of the story.

U.S. soldiers and Iraqi National Police forces were upset to find a blanket and utensils on the ground. The camp hadn't been there the day before when the troops cleared the area, meaning suspected insurgents had made their way back or were still hiding among the trees.

Bruce Hoffman, a terrorism and counterinsurgency expert at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., says the militants are likely avoiding head-on confrontations with the strengthened security forces to give themselves a chance to regroup.

"Al-Qaida in Iraq is really hoping to survive and sustain its struggle over time and hoping that its forces will change in the future but not engaging any direct contact now," Hoffman said.

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Chris, I was so happy to hear your promotion board went well. We look forward to your next call so we can hear the details. Congratulations!

I want you to know that the army of prayer warriors continues to cover you and the 2nd SCR with their prayers...you are not done yet and we are crystal clear on that detail.

Keep your head on a swivel and your eyes on the target at all times...we know you aren't resting..nor will we.

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman