A Greater Freedom Article Listing

Father, Son Reunite on Deployment

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Usually deployment means not seeing family anywhere from 12-15 months. In the case of one father and son, their deployments to Iraq would bring them back together.

1st Armored Division Motor Pool Becomes a Family Affair

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

It isn't unusual to find a tradition of military service in families; in fact, it is often seen as a rite of passage. However, it is somewhat atypical for two brothers to be in the same unit and stranger still for them to be identical twins.

Uncle, Nephew Serve Together, Continue Military Tradition

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Some National Guard Soldiers say their units are like an extended family. For two Soldiers deployed to Iraq, and in Task Force 38, it is.

Pledge of Support From First Lady Begins Family Conference

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With personal assurance from the nation's first lady that President Barack Obama is committed to military families, more than 1,500 people participated as the Defense Department's Joint Family Readiness Conference kicked off here today.

Face of Defense: Deployed Airman Sees Daughter's Birth

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

An Airman assigned here witnessed the birth of his third child, and he did so without leaving his post.

Blog Offers Support to Military Families

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Defense Department has launched a blog called "Family Matters" that is dedicated to providing resources and support to military families.

Face of Defense: Sister, Brother Reunite in Iraq

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Deployments usually separate Soldiers from their families. However, for one "Red Bull" Soldier, it provided the chance to reunite with her brother.

Adoptions Bring Multiple Blessings

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Faith Pervatt loves being a mommy. She's got that glow so many new mothers have. You can see it, just past the slightly tired eyes as she laughs with the toddlers crawling on her lap, competing for her attention. Her babies, Benjamin and Grace, are 14 months old, but they're not twins. Benjamin is five days older than his sister, Grace.

The Family That Deploys Together

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In today's Army, 'Family First' is a main focus for Soldiers and leaders, and many families are able to deploy together, with the help of their chain of commands.

Mother, Son Serve Together in Afghanistan

Sat, 08 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Deployed Soldiers have all kissed their families good-bye, and headed off to war with the expectation of learning to handle the constant heartache of missing their loved ones.

Third Army/USARCENT Retreat Builds Strong Families

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In an environment where Soldiers deploy at a moment's notice, taking care of families is vital to the success of the mission. Third Army/USARCENT held its annual family retreat at Callaway Gardens, Ga., July 17-19, giving families the tools that will help them sustain the hardships of deployment.

Tricare Deputy Director Highlights New Programs

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Tricare is enhancing its programs and services as part of an ongoing commitment to provide quality health care for military families, the new deputy director of Tricare Management Activity said.

Family Members Get a Taste of Marine Life

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Instead of gearing up to do yard work, shop, take the kids to sports practice, or head to jobs of their own, nearly 80 military family members donned blue jeans and T-shirts or pieces of their loved ones' uniforms to see how the Marine and sailors of 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion spend their days.

Family Support Key to Maintaining Resolve for Long War

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Supporting military families and the volunteers who help them are key elements of maintaining the nation's resolve during prolonged conflict, the chief of the National Guard Bureau said here Monday.

DoD Committed to Supporting Guardmembers, Families

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Department of Defense is committed to supporting Guard and Reserve members and their families through policies that maintain strong family programs and innovative efforts, such as the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, a senior DoD official told lawmakers, July 22.

A Home Away From Home: Fort Bragg's Fisher House Helps Soldiers, Families

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

When a Soldier makes the decision to serve our country, so does the family. The family is right there next to the Soldier enduring the many moves, separations and sometimes more critical situations.

Officials Work to Lessen Impact of Deployments on Children

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Defense Department officials are working aggressively to reduce the impact of multiple deployments on the children of military families.

Navy Celebrates 30 Years of Fleet and Family

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

This year, the Fleet and Family Support Centers of Hampton Roads turns 30. The first FFSC opened in Norfolk in 1979 in response to the Navy Family Awareness Conference's realization of the need to support Sailors' families.

Father, Son Spend First Father's Day Together in Over a Decade

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

It is hard enough to get families together to celebrate birthdays or holidays, but imagine the challenges a family faces when more than family member serves in the military.

Father, Son Embark on New Journey

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Most Soldiers say working with their fellow troops is like working with family.

DoD Child Care Facilities Finish on Top

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

When Soldiers set out to accomplish a mission, it's important they have a clear head and are ready to focus on the job at hand. The last thing Soldiers should have to worry about is the care being provided to their children.

Officers' Spouse Club Gives Military Families Head Start on Educations

Fri, 29 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Combat Center spouses and children gathered at the Officers' Club for the Officers' Spouses Club annual Scholarship and Grant Committee luncheon May 22.

Navy Doctor, 62, Serves on First Deployment to Iraq in Honor of Two Marine Sons

Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

There has been one Medal of Honor, 23 Navy Crosses, and 92 Silver Stars awarded to Marines and Sailors serving with Marine units since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.

Temple Railroad Museum's Family Fun Day Honors Hood

Tue, 19 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The torrential downpour didn't stop Temple resident, Steven Castro and his 14-year-old son Jacob from attending Temple's Railroad and Heritage Museum's Military Appreciation and Family Fun Day May 16, in Temple, Texas.

Like Father Like Son: 8th Military Police Soldiers Keep Family Tradition on Camp Liberty

Wed, 13 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The American Heritage Dictionary defines "tradition" as "a mode of thought or behavior followed by a people continuously from generation to generation; a custom or usage."

Families 'retreat' for Quiet Getaway

Fri, 01 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Deployments can be strenuous in countless ways for both Soldiers deployed and their families left behind.

Operation Homefront Names First Military Child Award Winner

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

An Army family member has earned $5,000, a laptop computer and a trip to the nation's capital as the first Military Child Award winner for a national troop-support organization.

Chairman Emphasizes Need to "Get It Right" for Soldiers, Families

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Making sure "we get it right" for the nation's Soldiers and their families is his top priority, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff told about 400 4th Infantry Division soldiers here yesterday.

Re-enlistment of Spartan Couples Strengthens Marriage Bonds

Sun, 12 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In a war zone, many Soldiers may begin to question their career decisions. As the dangers of war enter their lives and long work hours far outweigh their free time, it may be hard for a Soldier to embrace the concept of continuing this lifestyle for years to come.

Top Air Force Spouse Discusses Deployment Family Issues

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Air Force's top spouse discussed the challenges Air Force members and their spouses face during deployments while she visited the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing April 6 and 7.

Circus Salutes Military Children, Families

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus invited more than 300 military families to their show at the Patriot Center here last night for "thrills and chills" under the big top in recognition of the Month of the Military Child.

Group Donates Easter Baskets for Month of Military Child

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A California based troop-support group has collected and mailed more than 600 Easter baskets as part of April's observance of the Month of the Military Child.

Butner Elementary Celebrates Month of the Military Child

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As the April showers arrived and the first signs of spring appeared, the students, faculty, and guests of Butner Elementary School began their celebration, the Month of the Military Child.

The Outdoors: a Chance for Military Families to Find Renewal and Solace

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For Soldiers returning from deployment, reintegrating back into society can be an unnerving experience. First, there is the highway – horns, loose fan belts, aggressive and distracted drivers. Then there is the chaos and clamor of ringing telephones, the buzz of appliances, the circus of television’s flash and noise.

'Operation Purple' Offers Summer Fun to Military Kids

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The National Military Family Association will host more than 9,000 military children at "Operation Purple" youth camps across America this year.

Military Spouse "empowerment Through Employment" Initiative Reaches Local Bases

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Family Member Employment Assistance Program at the Air Station is collaborating with Military Spouse Corporate Career Network in order to bring new work-at-home opportunities for military spouses in the Beaufort area.

Children of Deployed Soldiers Receive Grants for Extracurricular Activities

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Our Military Kids is an organization whose purpose is to supply the families of deployed Reservists and Guardsmen with funding so that they can either start or continue extracurricular activities while parents are deployed.

Reunion Training Helps Soldiers, Families Reconnect

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Spouses of Soldiers in the 18th Airborne Corps have a better idea of how to reconnect with their other halves upon redeployment, thanks to the Army's Battlemind reunion training.

More Than a Name Change, Part 4 - 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit First Unit to Implement New Family

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

More than a name change, Part 1 discussed implementing the new Family Readiness Program. In Part 2, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit Commander Col. Mark Desens described a paradigm shift from former programs and Family Readiness Officer Kelly Cotton described the new program's capabilities. Part 3 described the importance of hiring and training the right FRO, the importance of volunteers and a transformed role for commanders' spouses.

More Troops, Families Likely to Qualify for New GI Bill Benefits

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Troops nearing retirement eligibility may be able to tap into the transferability benefits provided in the new Post-9/11 GI Bill, even if they're unable to serve four more years of duty due to service policies, a senior defense official said.

Soldier, Family Center Underscores Nation's Commitment, Chairman Says

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The construction of a new Soldier and Family Assistance Center here underscores the nation's commitment to those who sacrifice so much, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said during a groundbreaking ceremony yesterday.

Family Readiness Officers Keep Marines, Families Closer

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Fightertown Marines and Sailors must be ready to deploy at a moments’ notice. While they are away performing their duties, they must have complete confidence their families are well cared for and life is running smoothly in the rear. Family Readiness Officers are available to help make deployments run a little smoother for the loved ones at home.

More Than a Name Change: 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit First Unit to Implement New Family Readiness

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

As the Marine Corps transitions from Key Volunteers to the new Family Readiness Program, the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit entered its 10-month milestone with the new program, Feb. 5.

Family Ties Keep Homesickness at Bay for Deployed Family

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

To say the Air Force runs in the family would be an understatement for the Horstmans.

Mary Makes a Difference to Soldiers, Families

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Families and Soldiers of Fort Knox’s 3rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) will lose one of their most important assests this month as their Family Readiness Support Assistant departs for another assignment.

Health System Site Helps Troops, Spouses Launch Medical Careers

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A major health care provider in the suburbs here is teaming up with the Defense Department to help military members and spouses pursue medical careers.

Entertainers Join Elmo to Help Military Families Find 'New Normal'

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Sesame Workshop will air a PBS special on April 1 aimed at helping military families cope with changes.

Reading Program Connects Deployed Soldiers With Their Children

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A program in Iraq is helping deployed Soldiers bond with their children back home through books.

Extra Notice Helps Wyoming Prepare Families for Historic Deployment

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

As Wyoming prepares for the largest National Guard deployment in state history, much of the planning has gone into helping those who will be left behind for a year in communities scattered across the rural state.

Texas, Iraqi Students Partners in Academics

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Students from Rylander Elementary School, located in Katy, Texas, partnered with students at the Flowers of the Future school in Salman Pak, Iraq, during a school supply drop by a team of Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers from Task Force 2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.

American Red Cross Eases Soldiers Nerves During Deployment

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

For all service members, the possibility of crisis affecting their loved ones during a deployment looms as an ominous threat that cannot be easily ignored. Under already stressful conditions, incidents back home can be dehabilitating and cripple job performance, as well as morale and motivation.

Sister, Brother Maintain Morale, Vehicles

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Sgt. Erisman and Sgt. Erisman are both mechanics. They have similar Arkansas twangs and freckled faces. They look alike, they talk alike, and, even without the nametags, there’s no mistake. The two Soldiers are brother and sister.

4th Infantry Division Expresses Thanks to Families During Town Hall Meeting

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers and leaders of the 4th Infantry Division and Multi-National Division – Baghdad gathered at the Media Operations Center on Camp Liberty for the monthly 4th Inf. Div. Town Hall meeting, Nov. 26.

Face of Defense: Soldier, Family Find Helpful 'Source'

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Being separated from family can trigger stress and anxiety for deployed servicemembers, especially when children are involved.

Gen. Casey Focuses on Army Families During First Team Visit

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Stabilization, family readiness, dwell time, veteran and wounded warrior care and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq-- these are the topics Chief of Staff of the Army, Gen. George W. Casey, Jr. discussed during his visit to Fort Hood while meeting with the Soldiers of the 1st Cavalry Division, Nov. 17.

1st Air Cavalry Brigade Flies in Fun for Disabled Children

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The dry, freshly cut grass was flying around like snow in a blizzard as the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter came in for a landing.

Warrior Care: Warrior, Family Support Center Gets Upgrade in San Antonio

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The Warrior and Family Support Center located steps away from Brooke Army Medical Center here is one packed place.

Donated Computers to Assist Families Stay in Touch

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Melissa Fields is about to experience the daunting task of being an Army spouse as she prepares to say goodbye to her husband Pfc. Raymond Fields. Pfc. Fields, a communication specialist assigned to the 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, is about to deploy for the first time in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. However, thanks to a gracious donation, they won’t have to worry about how to keep in touch.

Group Helps Families of Fallen Warriors

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Children of fallen warriors will enjoy camp activities and get help managing their grief this month at a program designed especially for them.

Group Surpasses $2 Million in Grants for Military Children

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

“Our Military Kids,” a nonprofit support group, recently reached a new milestone: $2 million in grants awarded for sports, fine arts and tutoring programs.

Honor Guard Strives to Leave Lasting Impression

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

His look is piercing. His movements are sharp. His skills are among the best. He wears a unique patch on his left shoulder that identifies him as the first National Guard Soldier in the state of Louisiana certified to train others to meet the high standards embodied by a member of the Military Funeral Honors Program.

Deployed Mother Finds Inspiration, Support From Her Own

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A mother’s job is not easy duty, especially for a Soldier mom serving that role in Iraq thousands of miles away from home. That’s why one service member looks to her own mother to help with her four children back home.

Spouses Help Teachers Understand Life for Deployed Families

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

What began as a chat over coffee became a learning opportunity for teachers here.

Department Works to Give Military Families Coordinated Care

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Defense Department, in conjunction with the military services and the Department of Veterans Affairs, has created a framework to help wounded, ill and injured servicemembers not only survive, but also thrive as they transition from military service back into their communities.

YMCA and Ohio National Guard Work Together to Support Families

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Ohio is one of 10 states participating in a new YMCA and the Department of Defense collaborative effort aimed at helping deployed National Guard members and their families.

Nine Is Enough?

Sun, 05 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Emily and Jean Paul looked up at one another over the tops of their steaming coffee mugs as the pitter-patter of tiny feet overhead signaled the end of the morning calm. Emily stood up, pulled an 18-count carton of eggs from the refrigerator and began cracking them into a large glass bowl one by one. The task complete, she pulled out the paper plates and laid them out on the counter in three rows of three.

Face of Defense: Civilian Remembered for 'Giant Heart'

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Affectionately known as "Big Jim," James McCrindle had a Paul Bunyan-sized heart when it came time for taking care of Soldiers and their families as general manager of the Armed Forces Recreation Center's "Shades of Green" facility on the Walt Disney World resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

America Supports You: Foundation Opens Second Fisher House in San Diego

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Wounded service members and their families in San Diego will have a second "home away from home" during the recovery process when Naval Medical Center San Diego celebrates the grand opening of Fisher House II on Oct. 3, 2008.

Executive Order Eases Federal Employment for Military Spouses

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

President Bush signed an executive order this week that will make it easier for spouses of servicemembers to get federal jobs.

America Supports You: Camps Have Chance to Support Military Kids

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

As mathematical formulas and reading lists overtake kids’ memories of laughing with friends at summer camp, the National Military Family Association is already gearing up to rekindle those memories for next year.

Marine Links Up Via Satellite to Witness Childbirth

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Like most soon-to-be first-time fathers, Marine Lance Cpl. Jovan Rodriguez anxiously awaited the birth of his child and looked forward to being by his wife's bedside.

Army Guard Family Support Thrives Under New Division Chief

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The new head of the Army National Guard's Family Support Service Division has one thing on her mind: the wellbeing of Soldiers and their families.

Improve Your Long Distance Relationship Class Held at Forward Operating Base Kalsu

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Mark Twain once said, “I can live for two months on a good compliment.”

America Supports You: Group Aids Children of Fallen Pararescue Jumpers

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Air Force pararescue jumpers recover servicemembers from any compromising situation in which they may find themselves. Their motto is “That others may live.”

America Supports You: Group Helps Military Children Cope with Deployments

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

An organization based here is working to help military infants and toddlers cope with the stresses of a parent’s deployment unique to their age group.

New Army Guard Division Focuses on Soldiers' Well-Being

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers and their families are the focus of a new division at the Army National Guard Readiness Center here.

America Supports You: 'Widow Project' Documentary Release Nears

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A 75-minute documentary that focuses on the lives of six military widows from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars will start making the rounds this month at military bases and Veterans of Foreign Wars halls across the country.

America Supports You: Elmo and Friends Entertain, Educate Families

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit organization behind the program “Sesame Street,” and the United Service Organizations joined forces to bring “The Sesame Street Experience for Military Families” to 43 installations across the country.

Hawaii Window Company Keeps Military Employees in the Family

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Because it always has been a family-owned and -operated business, it’s no surprise that Coastal Windows, a small Hawaii company, knows how to take care of its employees.

Frocking Becomes Family Affair

Sat, 16 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

To frock a Soldier is always a special occasion, and getting frocked with two peers is even more unique, but when frocking becomes a family affair during a deployment; that’s incredible.

America Supports You: Groups Help the Few, the Proud, the Expecting

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Two troop-support groups hosted a “Military Showers of Appreciation” for 15 expectant military mothers July 27 at Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Families 'tied' by War: Brothers in Arms Cross Paths in Afghanistan

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Senior Airman Matthew Delgado, 21, made one last trip home before deploying in May. He was set to deploy to Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, and didn’t expect to see his family for months. Half-way into his deployment rotation, he was surprised when someone knocked on his barracks door and told him his brother was waiting for him at the post exchange.

Gates: Caring for Military Children 'Sacred Responsibility'

Sat, 26 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates today called it a “sacred responsibility” to care for the generation of American military children affected by the deployment, and in some cases the death, of a servicemember parent.

Defense Department to Deliver More, Improved Child Care

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Last week’s ribbon-cutting at the largest military child care center underscores the Defense Department’s commitment to providing more and better child-care for military families, a senior defense official said.

America Supports You: 'Good Grief Camp' Helps Children Overcome Loss

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

America Supports You: Patriotic Hearts Care for Military, Families

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

America Supports You: Vets Help Wounded Warriors, Families Relax

Tue, 13 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Sesame Street Coaches Kids Through Parent's Deployments, Returns

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:00:00 GMT

America Supports You: Military Kids Get Special Recognition

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Military children and their sacrifices took center stage here last night during a reception attended by Defense Department dignitaries.

Defense Leaders Tackle Family Issues

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 04:00:00 GMT

THIS IS A TEST. The Defense Department has identified 10 key issues of importance to military members and their families, including education policies and benefits, accessible support for military families, and spouse employment opportunities.

"Year of the Military Family" Public Service Campaign Launched

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 04:00:00 GMT

The Defense Department has identified 10 key issues of importance to military members and their families, including education policies and benefits, accessible support for military families, and spouse employment opportunities.

Wounded Warrior Diaries: 'Failure Is Not an Option'

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Believing faithfully that failure is not an option is a guiding philosophy for a former Army staff sergeant who, despite his injuries in combat, applies it to his life daily.

Happy Columbus Day

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

What is Columbus Day? Many people in the United States recognize it as the celebration of Christopher Columbus' discovery of the eastern coast of North America. Many others protest the recognition of Columbus because of the politics of Spain and Italy, in regard to slavery and the 'invasion' of North America by European conquerors.

Team "Tribal" Delivers Smiles to Iraqi Children

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Kids love anything free. So when Border Training Team Tribal delivered children's medicine and candy to the Iraqi people in Maysan province, Sept. 6, kids were elated – at least for the candy.

Military Provides Rescue, Humanitarian Support in Pacific

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

While U.S. special operators conduct a massive rescue effort after devastating flooding in the Philippines, the Hawaii Air National Guard and USS Ingraham are headed to American Samoa to support rescue and humanitarian relief there following a massive earthquake and tsunami.

There Is Help, 380th Air Expeditionary Wing Mental Health Service and Chapel Support Deployed Airmen

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Forty Airmen took their own lives last year worldwide. Suicide isn't the only way out; there is help for service members in the fight against depression.

Medal of Honor Recipient Memorialized in Hall of Heroes

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The father of Army Sgt. 1st Class Jared C. Monti, who posthumously received the Medal of Honor, remembered his son today as a person defined by selflessness.

Airman Recalls 9/11 From Arlington

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. service members, Department of Defense civilians and contractors observed a shared moment of silence during a Patriot Day ceremony at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Sept. 11. With the flag unfurled and flown half-staff in Arabia, each citizen privately recalled their own 9/11 story. While serving as an aide to a top military officer, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Julie Smith, from Plymouth, Mich., remembered the day a tremble rolled across Arlington County from the Pentagon.

CAV Helps Make a Difference Through Community Service

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

One day, everyone will discover their power to make a difference.

Coalition Camp Memorializes Tragic American Day

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Camp Eggers hosted a ceremony Sept. 11 commemorating the eighth anniversary of the lives lost during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Deployed Service Members Remember Fallen at 9/11 Ceremony

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Shadows fell from service members headgear onto their faces as all heads bowed during the invocation for the Sept. 11 ceremony at the Al Faw Palace, Camp Victory, Iraq, in remembrance of the 2,973 men, woman and children who lost their lives eight years ago.

Firefighters, Soldiers Remember Sept. 11

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Three-hundred forty three New York City firefighters died on Sept. 11, 2001. Task Force 38 Citizen-Soldiers who are deployed in the fight against terrorism, and who are also firefighters back home, remember that day vividly.

Post-9/11 U.S. Is Safer, More Prepared, Commander Says

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Americans are safer and the country is in a better position to respond to threats and attacks than eight years ago, the top military commander over homeland defense said Sept. 11.

Serbians Provide Warm Welcome to Ohio Troops Helping Restore Schools

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers of the 1194th Engineer Company wake up early in the morning, get dressed in their clean but still mortar covered uniforms, and step out the door. From there they are greeted by a scenic view of the mountains, a lake, gardens and numerous local townspeople, who frequently express their gratitude in gifts of food and drinks. For the 1194th, it's just another day on the job.

Quilts of Valor Offer Comfort for Wartime Emotions

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In 2003, Catherine Roberts, a midwife and a 25-year quilter from Seaford, Del., wanted to give a wounded soldier a quilt to bring him comfort during his recovery.

Predator: Silent Stalker

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

By definition a predator is one that preys, destroys and if necessary devours. It is a beast of nature, and for anyone with the intentions of hurting those that live and work on Ali Base they might have an encounter with one ... one with precision speed, eyesight and cunning.

Soldiers Test Watercraft Capabilities at Pacific Reach 2009 in Japan

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Active duty and Army Reserve Soldiers from the across the globe are testing the readiness of the Army's prepositioned set four [APS-4) during military exercise Pacific Reach 2009 at Yokohama North Dock, Tokyo, Japan.

Fort Lee Soldiers Care for Fallen Comrades

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A team of Fort Lee, Va. mortuary affair specialists care for the remains of Soldiers while ensuring a dignified and rapid return to their families as quickly as possible.

Financial Peace University Empowers Soldiers, Improves Mission Readiness

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

"Our goal is to live like no one else now, so we can live like no one else later," said Dave Ramsey, founder of Financial Peace University, a program offered by Special Troops Battalion, 34th Red Bull Infantry Division chaplain's office at Contingency Operating Base Basra.

Recruit Sustainment Program Improves Recruits Chances for Success at Basic Training

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Remember basic training? Remember leaving home and going to a place that seemed foreign; where you went with other young men and women to learn new rules and a different way of life? From hair styles to clothing, eating habits to sleep routines, organization to discipline, the world as you knew it changed and at times you wondered what you had gotten into...if only you had known!

Coalition's Iraq Withdrawal Plans on Track, Officials Say

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Everything is on track for the withdrawal of American troops from the cities of Iraq, Iraqi and coalition officials said this week.

French Citizens Join U.S. Soldiers Past and Present to Honor Those Who Fought at Gourbesville During

Sat, 06 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In the days before the landings at Normandy on June 6, 1944, the small town of Gourbesville was the site of a German aid station. In the days following the allied invasion the town and others like it in the surrounding countryside became the scene of intense fighting as the U.S. Army moved eastward deeper into France.

President Issues Armed Forces Day Proclamation

Fri, 15 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama signed and issued a proclamation on May 14 designating May 16 as Armed Forces Day.

The "eye in the Sky" Keeps Soldiers Out of Harm's Way

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A group of insurgents waits in the dark to ambush a convoy. They sit patiently, eager, having planned the attack and thinking they know what to expect. A few minutes pass and then, suddenly, they are inexplicably blinded by spotlights as Soldiers seemingly from nowhere take advantage of their disorientation and safely disarm them.

For Courage and Valor, Corporal on Okinawa Earns Silver Star Medal for Selfless Heroism on Front Lin

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The day started like any other day in eastern Afghanistan, moderate temperature, sunny; hardly a cloud in the sky.

Afghan Girl Receives Help From Soldiers, Americans

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A 2-year-old girl from Gardez province and her family flew to Cincinnati, Ohio earlier this month to have reconstructive surgery on the child's trachea after swallowing a battery a year ago.

Landing Zone Named After Fallen Battalion Commander

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Propeller wash from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter christened the official renaming of a landing zone on Forward Operating Base Marez, March 20.

School Supplies Make Unique Journey to Iraq

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

School children made up of 7th and 11th graders in the small town of New Roads La. might not be old enough to join the military, or old enough to vote, but that does not mean they can’t make a difference half a world away in countries such as Iraq.

Chairman Lauds Group for Work With Families of Fallen Warriors

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Those in uniform must always remember their fallen comrades and their families, and those families deserve help in enduring their heartache, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here last night.

Team Military Police Learns a New Skill to Provide and Safe and Secure Environment in Kosovo

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

“Training gives us practice and practice makes us better at what we do.” These are the words of Team Military Police’s battle non-commissioned officer, Sgt. William Ludwick, as he talked about the professional advancement of his team.

The American Legion Strongly Opposed to President's Plan to Charge Wounded Heroes for Treatment

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The leader of the nation's largest veterans organization says he is "deeply disappointed and concerned" after a meeting with President Obama today to discuss a proposal to force private insurance companies to pay for the treatment of military veterans who have suffered service-connected disabilities and injuries. The Obama administration recently revealed a plan to require private insurance carriers to reimburse the More than 750 people from the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs and private enterprise -- including social workers, chaplains, researchers, and family members – are gathered here this week for a suicide-prevention conference.

Ironhorse Mental Health Team Helps Prepare Soldiers for Transition Back to Homes, Families

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The likelihood of deployed service members experiencing some kind of mental or physical change during the 12-15 months they are away from home is a distinct possibility. One way or another, most will undergo some change during such a long departure.

Program Plans Suicide-Prevention 'Webinar' for Grief Counselors

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

As part of an effort to educate civilian and military health care providers about grief counseling, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, or TAPS, is planning a "webinar" featuring a leading expert in suicide prevention.

Cheney Thanks Veterans During Arlington Event

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Vice President Richard B. Cheney thanked U.S. veterans of all wars during an annual Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 11, 2008, and said the men and women fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan carry on their legacy of service, bravery and sacrifice.

President Honors Veterans, Families at USS Intrepid Ceremony

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

On his last Veterans Day as commander in chief, President Bush paid tribute to all those who have worn the uniform of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard during a speech at the USS Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City.

Veterans Cemetery Honors Those Who Served

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

"They are dead; but they live in each patriot's breast, and their names are engraven on honor's bright crest," Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote.

President Issues Nov. 11 Veterans Day Proclamation

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

President Bush issued a proclamation to honor all who are serving or have served in the U.S. armed forces.

National Guard Ministry Teams Learn to Respond and Support During Attacks

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The North Dakota National Guard's religious support teams recently trained on how to provide support during chemical and biological incidents, as well as basic crisis intervention during radiological or nuclear incidents.

Compensation Change Puts More Money in Injured Service Members' Pockets

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

A military compensation policy change provides more money for service members injured during service in the global war on terrorism, a senior Defense Department official said here today.

Service Members Get Free National Depression Screening Day Evaluations

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Service members, retirees and their family members are getting free, anonymous screenings for depression and other mental health related issues at military bases nationwide during National Screening for Depression Day today.

Bush Proclaims Sept. 28 Gold Star Mother's Day

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

President Bush has proclaimed Sept. 28 as Gold Star Mother’s Day this year. The day honors the mothers of men and women who were killed in the line of duty while serving the nation in the armed forces.

Pentagon 9/11 Memorial Ensures a Nation Will Not Forget

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

As the bands played and the flags waved at the Pentagon here this morning, an airplane flew by. As names were read and prayers were said, an airplane flew by. As leaders spoke and children squirmed, an airplane flew by.

Soldiers in Baghdad Render Honors to Nation, Fallen Brethren

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division and their fellow servicemembers and civilians gathered in front of the division’s headquarters today to honor and remember the people who lost their lives seven years ago and the heroes who came forth to protect

Troops, Civilians From Various Nations Commemorate 9/11 at Bagram

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers and civilians from several nations affected by the war on terror gathered beneath the towering flagpoles at the Combined Joint Task Force 101 headquarters here today to remember Sept. 11, 2001.

Wounded U.S. Soldiers, Marines Participate in Ice Hockey Clinic

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

LAUREL, Md., May 20, 2008 – A group of wounded U.S. military veterans gathered at a Maryland ice rink for some fun, camaraderie and exercise May 17.

3-8 CAV Battalion Update

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The following article was submitted by Chaplain (CPT) Will Alley, who is the Chaplain for the 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. This battalion has been deployed to Mosul, Iraq since December 12, 2008.

3-8 CAV Battalion Update

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

3-8 CAV Battalion Update

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

3-8 CAV Battalion Update

Sat, 23 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As we wind down the month of May and near the half way point of the deployment, it is a good time to stop and reflect on the past five months. We have been through a lot, as the Warhorse Battalion, and our hard work, trials, and sacrifice has brought us together as a family.

3-8 CAV Battalion Update

Sat, 02 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Reserve/Guard Difference

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Finally Home

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

“If men and women are in chains anywhere in the world, then freedom is endangered everywhere.”

–– John F. Kennedy

An Army Wife's Perspective

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Freedom's Price

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Sand blew across the parking lot. It seemed we had found the edge of the world, but for our oldest son, Nathan and the other Marines stationed there, the colorless landscape of 29 Palms was home. Each company, dressed in desert camouflaged, lined up for roll call. Their gear was packed. Within a few hours they would be leaving for

Serving Is Freedom

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

There are many types of freedom that Americans cherish: financial, religious, political and the list continues.

Chaplain, Unit Cope With Loss

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For Soldiers in combat zones it can be difficult dealing with the loss of a teammate, but one chaplain here at Victory Base in Baghdad is helping his troops through a ministry of presence.

Iraqi Bishop Holds Catholic Mass on COB Basra

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A Catholic Mass was celebrated in the Chaldean Rite by the acting bishop of Basra Aug. 8 in honor of the Soldiers serving here.

FIRST-PERSON: Don't weaken 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Recently President Obama hosted a gathering of homosexual leaders in the East Room where previous presidents celebrated the National Day of Prayer. "Welcome to our White House," was his greeting to enthusiastic applause.

Soldiers See Big Benefit in Small Group Worship Service at Camp Taji, Iraq

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The rattle of small arms fire from a nearby range didn't detract from the parishioner's joy in singing hymns. That the congregation was comprised of only four Soldiers didn't diminish the value of the chaplain's weekly message at the small fire base on the outskirts of the post.

Keeping the Faith

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Pastors and priests in uniform, National Guard chaplains are the ones helping Soldiers and Airmen maintain their spiritual health, whether it’s during State Active Duty for flooding, on drill weekends or when deployed overseas.

Bobby Welch visit heartens 10th Mountain Division

Sun, 29 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A divine appointment in an airport gave Bobby Welch an opportunity to encourage 400 members of an elite U.S. Army unit and personally share the Gospel with soldiers who fight in some of the harshest conditions imaginable.

Ministry Promotes 'single' Focus

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Single Soldiers face many issues in today’s military that are often overlooked, such as dating, single parenting and recovering from pain associated with past relationships.

SC Church Shares Lessons of Love with Military at Guantanamo

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Members of Mount Airy Baptist Church, Easley, S.C., visited Guantanamo Bay as part of a mission to reach out to military members and civilians in an effort to help strengthen personal relationships, whether with a spouse, significant other or family member.

Joint Area Support Group-Central Soldier Third Generation to Carry 90-year-old Bible Into Warzone

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers carry an abundance of Army-issued gear. Master Sgt. Richard A. Koch, however, carries something even greater – a legacy of selfless service that dates back three generations.

Prayer Breakfast Held to Honor Martin Luther King Jr.

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers on Forward Operating Base Kalsu joined together Jan. 16 to celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Chapel Delivers Holiday Cheer in Deployed Environment

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

In almost 10 years of service as a military member, Capt. William Spencer, chaplain, had the good fortune of spending every holiday season carving turkeys on Thanksgiving and opening gifts with his wife and children on Christmas Day. Every season, that is, except this one.

Music's Past Helps Shape Soldiers' Lives

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Capt. Robert Crandall is more than a night-shift physician assistant for Company C, 204th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

Military Police Hold First Service at Watchdog Chapel

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The second Sunday of Advent, will be remembered by the 8th Military Police Brigade as the day when an all-purpose room became the “Watchdog” Chapel, site for the brigade’s non-denominational worship service.

Soldiers Make Peace Out of War Through Scripture, Scrapbooks

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

A commander’s job may be to guide their Soldiers into battle, but Chaplain (Capt.) Lisa Northway sees her job as providing the spiritual guideposts for Soldiers to follow home.

Religious Support Teams Help Heal Invisible Wounds

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The Air Force Theater Hospital looks and sounds like any other hospital in a major U.S. city. Doctors, nurses and other medical personnel move along beds treating various patients, while an overhead announcement calls for a doctor. Wounds start to mend. Some are easy to see while others hide below the surface, and a unique team that specializes in healing the wounds so deep they can damage their very spirit.

Gospel Explosion Captures Hearts, Minds of Long Knife Soldiers

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Sounds of music and merriment could be heard by the Soldiers stationed, as they stepped into Memorial Hall for the 2008 Gospel Explosion Oct. 31, 2008.

Military service meets Great Commission

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Their lives center on missions, operations and training; strict time schedules; days and, often, months spent away from family; and a pressure to perform that can mean life or death. They live in a world that can be cold, devoid of light and empty of love -- figuratively and sometimes literally.

MND-B Chaplain Creates 'a Little PEACE of Home'

Sun, 05 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Few people understand the hardships that U.S. Soldiers endure in a combat zone, away from everything familiar in a foreign land, far away from the support systems of family, home and friends.

Crocheting and Knitting for a Cause

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When Staff Sgt. Lani Yearicks was little, she learned how to crochet. Four years ago, after neglecting her skills for years, her brother invited her to take part in the prayer shawl ministry at their church.

Book Inspires Female Soldier to Host Religious Lock-in for Deployed Women

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A female Soldier with the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, hosted a lock-in for 20 women in the forwarding operating base chapel, Sept. 20, 2008.

Face of Defense: Soldier Counts Being Alive, in Uniform Among Blessings

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Though he’s never regretted joining the Army, a soldier here said, his decision never felt more right than when he faced the greatest challenge of his life: battling cancer.

Deployed Troops Remember September 11

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Sgt. Amelia Bradley remembers. She remembers being a 20-year-old supply specialist working in a warehouse at Hunter Army Air Field in Savannah, Ga. She remembers hearing the news crackling over a small radio about planes hitting buildings, towers falling and people dying. And she remembers gathering in her platoon sergeant’s office to pray.

Former African Pastor Now Serves As Soldier, Cook With 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Many Soldiers join the United States Army as a way of saying thanks, while others feel it is their patriotic duty to serve the country that has offered them a life full of endless opportunities. Regardless of the reason, thousands of Soldiers are taking or re-taking the oath to defend and protect the United States of America during this time of war.

Soldiers Sing Praises at FOB Rustamiyah

Sat, 09 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

As night falls on Forward Operating Base Rustamiyah, silence and darkness covers the FOB. This assists the FOB to remain tactically quiet and unseen throughout the night.

A Soldier's Faith

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Every Sunday morning at 9:15 a.m., without fail, you can hear a gospel song emanating down the hall of the 1st Sustainment Brigade headquarters building. For those faithful Sunday school members making their way down the hall into the conference room, it's not the music that draws them, but the spiritual lesson they are about to receive.

Army Chaplains Celebrate 233 Years of Service

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

To commemorate over two centuries of service to the Army family, chaplains, chaplain assistants, and their families from numerous units from around Fort Hood gathered for a day of fellowship and reflection.

Chapel Attendance, Spirits Rise at FOB Hammer

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Chapel attendance by members of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, has steadily increased since April. Members of the congregation attribute the increase to the efforts of a loving and dedicated staff of chaplains and assistants.

Face of Defense: Canadian-Born Soldier Serves as Sniper in Iraq

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Looking through a rifle sight into the eyes of an enemy -- no matter how evil that enemy is or how many innocent people he has killed -- and then pulling the trigger to end that enemy’s existence affects a soldier.

Chaplains offer independence to those who fight for it

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Photo by Kathleen Murray

While soldiers, sailors and airmen are lauded each July 4 for defending freedom on a daily basis, military chaplains fulfill the high duty of offering spiritual freedom to those who serve in the armed forces domestically and abroad.

Face of Defense: Marine Started With Nothing, Credits Corps for Success

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Soldier Killed with Bible nearby

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

\The thought of her son's Bible fluttering in the wind beside his still body in Iraq brought a certain comfort to Marcus Mathes' mother after he was killed in a mortar attack April 28.

"It was just comfort because I knew he was on a mission and the Word was there at his fingertips," Sue Sawyer told the Florida Baptist Witness.

Greywolf Leader Baptized at Range

Wed, 28 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

FORT HOOD, Texas – At a range, the Soldier began his day by running and firing at targets, carrying heavy loads and evaluating mock casualties.

After completing a test that visually showed his physical and mental capabilities on the battlefield, he would visually show his faith.

At 48, he's a new Navy chaplain

Sun, 25 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

LifeBox Initiative Shows Soldiers That Churches Care

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Home churches send care packages to soldiers.

Celebrities Show Appreciation for Deployed Service Members

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Five television and film stars completed a Pro Sports MVP Ambassadors of Hollywood support tour in Southwest Asia at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 18. Vanessa Branch, Kelly Carlson, Greg Germann, D.W. Moffett and DeAnna Pappas traveled to military installations in the Middle East to show their appreciation for deployed sevice members.

Celebrity Visit Boosts Morale for Troops Overseas

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

"That was awesome!" was all Spc. Kyle Childers, Task Force Cyclone webmaster, could muster after performing a musical number for celebrities.

Lone Wolf Comedians Inspire Howls of Laughter

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Three comedians with the Lone Wolf Comedy Tour performed Sept. 15 at Morale, Welfare and Recreation Center West at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, as part of a 10-day tour in country.

Bikes Over Baghdad: X-Games Athletes Visit Baghdad

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Crowds cheered and X-Games sports stars bounced off of ramps and concrete T-walls as Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers hosted "Bikes Over Baghdad" at Camp Liberty, Sept. 9.

Comedians Take the Stage at Joint Base Balad

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Service members were treated to a night of good laughs Sept. 4 when the "Comics Ready to Entertain" tour made a stop at Joint Base Balad, Iraq.

Basketball Coaches Travel Overseas to Say 'thanks'

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

"Thank you so much," said Duggar Baucom, Virginia Military Institute men's basketball head coach, while greeting a group of U.S. service members at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Aug. 11. "Thank you for what you do and thank you for being over here. I want you to know, people back home appreciate you."

X Games Athletes Visit Greywolf Soldiers

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

They're not the standard professional athlete many would expect to come to Iraq. But Soldiers with an interest in extreme sports know them well and appreciated the visit. Five ESPN X Games athletes from various extreme sports visited the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team "Greywolf", 1st Cavalry Division at Forward Operating Base Marez, July 19.

Operation Iraqi Stephen

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

It is official — Stephen Colbert came, saw and conquered Iraq, claiming victory on day three of his six-day adventure to the Middle East.

Billy Blanks Gets Soldiers Sweaty With a Tae Bo Class at Q-West

Thu, 21 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Billy Blanks, creator of Tae Bo, and his assistant Melanie Neat, punched and kicked out a one-hour Tae Bo class for approximately 30 participants at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Center here April 26.

Tae Bo Comes to Camp Ramadi

Thu, 07 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from Headquarters Company, 81st Brigade Combat Team, Washington Army National Guard got a chance to work out with Tae Bo inventor Billy Blanks during his visit to Camp Ramadi, Iraq, April 30 and May 1.

Chairman Brings United Service Organization Show to Remote Afghan Bases

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Max Martini, who plays Army Master Sgt. Mack Gerhardt in the CBS show "The Unit," raced up a steep hill at a combat outpost in 28 seconds.

NFL Players Blitz Al Asad Air Base

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Vikings, giants, cardinals and rams are not common on the dusty streets of Al Asad Air Base in Iraq’s Al Anbar province. However, March 8, 2009, these seemingly unrealistic sights weren’t just mirages in the sand.

The NFL Visits Camp Ramadi, Iraq

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Dressed head to toe in Marine Corps fatigues, the 6-foot-3 Arizona Cardinal nonchalantly munching on beef jerky outside the Marine Corps Exchange on Camp Ramadi, Iraq, almost fit in, save for the dreadlocks and the poster taped to a wall behind him with his photograph on it. Larry Fitzgerald smiled casually at shocked Marines and Soldiers as they stumbled past him on their way into the small store. Many stopped to shake his hand or just stare. Some ran back to their living quarters to grab ca

Tae Bo Creator Back on Tour for Troops

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

“Billy Blanks really cares for the troops,” said U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Antonio Whitfield, from Statesboro, Ga., after meeting the fitness legend at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Feb. 16. Blanks continues to devote a great deal of time supporting U.S. troops overseas, teaching Tae Bo and self-motivation techniques during his tours.

Super Bowl "Balad Style"

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Early morning, just past 2 a.m., Feb. 2, more than 6,000 miles away from Tampa Bay, Fla., service members deployed here gathered in a time-honored American tradition: watching the Super Bowl live.

Forward of Forward Operating Base, Soldiers Appreciate Opportunity to Enjoy Super Bowl XLIII

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

While not as glamorous as festivities at camps and forward operating bases, Soldiers operating from joint security stations and patrol bases across Baghdad and Iraq made the time in between busy patrol schedules, guard duty and daily operations to enjoy an American tradition amongst good friends and good food.

United Service Organization, National Football League Host Super Bowl Party for Troops, Wounded Warr

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

For the third straight year, the National Football League and the United Service Organization of Metropolitan Washington teamed up to sponsor a Super Bowl party for Washington-based service members and their families.

Astronauts Arrive at Qatar

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

“I am amazed at how down to earth they are!” said U.S. Army Capt. Shawn Reynolds, from Lavergne, Tenn., after meeting six STS-126 space mission crew members at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Feb. 2. The astronauts were visiting U.S. service members in the Middle East and Germany, to show support while sharing experiences during the crew’s November 2008 space mission. The two-week trip is a first for Armed Forces Entertainment.

National Football League, Military Continue Super Bowl Traditions

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

From fighter jet flyovers to military performances at halftime shows, the National Football League and U.S. military have shared more than 40 years of Super Bowl history.

Air Force Fighters to Patrol Over Super Bowl

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Some Air Force fighter pilots may miss out on watching Super Bowl XLIII, but for a worthy cause. They will be flying to protect the skies around Raymond James Stadium during the Feb. 1 game in Tampa, Fla.

Deployed Troops to Watch Super Bowl From Forward Operating Base Tillman

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

As deployed U.S. troops pull up to their TV screens this weekend to watch the Arizona Cardinals take on the Pittsburgh Steelers during Super Bowl XLIII, there's likely to be a special sense of commemoration at Forward Operating Base Tillman in Afghanistan.

A Laughing Matter - Comedians Bring Comic Relief to 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 8th Infantry Regime

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

As days drag on through a long deployment, it is easy for Soldiers to get caught in the gray haze. They are bereft of the typical comforts and entertainments so easily taken for granted back home. Amidst a rough string of physically grueling patrols and details, a light moment of entertainment can easily brighten their days.

World Wrestling Entertainment Superstars Meet 'real Stars'

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

World Wrestling Entertainment superstars visited Soldiers from Multi-National Division – Baghdad’s 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Dec. 4, at Camp Taji, northwest of Baghdad as part of their ‘Tour for the Troops.’

Jimmy Kimmel Show Supports Deployed Marines

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

To support the deployed Marines in the al-Anbar province, the Jimmy Kimmel Show spotlighted select Marines with 1st Marine Expeditionary Force via satellite.

College Football Gives Service Members Link Back Home

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

College football is an essential part of Fall for many Americans. The leaves change colors, the air gets cold, and college campuses across the country pack into stadiums on Saturdays.

Troops Will Learn Whether 'The Price is Right' on Special Episode

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Comedian and former Marine Drew Carey will welcome servicemembers to the stage of ”The Price is Right” during a prime-time airing of a special episode dedicated to the troops.

Michael Jordan Teams Up With the National Guard

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Basketball legend and avid motorcyclist Michael Jordan is the latest high-profile celebrity to team up with the National Guard.

America Supports You: Game Show Honors Service Members

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Despite having an air show the next day to prepare for, Air Force Master Sgt. Robin Brooks decided to play the odds of becoming the "next contestant on 'The Price is Right,'" and it paid off.

American Gladiators Tour Iraq

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Atop the flatbed of a seven-ton truck and behind wooden pallets stacked as a barrier, gladiators took cover from incoming fire. They popped up to return suppressive fire, and the soccer ball onslaught continued for nearly an hour.

Former MLB Players Boost Morale

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Former Major League Baseball players Andy Ashby, of the San Diego Padres, Sterling Hitchcock, of the New York Yankees and Dean Palmer, of the Detroit Tigers, hung out with 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment Soldiers during the 2008 Heroes of the Diamond Tour while at the dining facility at Forward Operating Base Warhorse located in Diyala, Iraq.

Country Music Star Trace Adkins Performs for Q-West Soldiers

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Country music star Trace Adkins spent the day at Q-West visiting Soldiers, blowing up ordnance, and putting on an evening performance for more than 400 Soldiers at the Favors Outdoor Theater Sept. 22, 2008.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Other NASCAR Drivers Spend Time With Recovering Troops

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

NASCAR drivers were in a neck and neck race Thursday to see who could visit the most wounded warriors at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington. The recovering troops there were the ultimate winners.

Cavalry Soldiers Build Relationship With Iraqis Through Humanitarian Assistance

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Iraqi villagers in Rabi'ah and its surrounding areas have come to welcome and enjoy the Soldiers that visit them regularly.

School Opening Brings New Hope in Iraq

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A project that began last year came to fruition here, Oct. 12, when this small Iraqi village celebrated the official opening of a newly renovated school.

Water Taps Open in Baghdad's Sadr City District

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Baghdad's Sadr City district, home to more than two million Iraqis, was built by Saddam Hussein as a massive urban community to house the thousands of rural Iraqis migrating to the capital in search of jobs. But after decades of neglect, Sadr City's residents lacked even the most basic needs, such as adequate potable water.

Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq Logisticians Reach Out to the Children of Iraq

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Seven members from the Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq procurements section took time to visit the children of an Iraqi school and local family, Oct. 22, with care packages.

State Officials Show Appreciation

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

State flags from more than 30 U.S. states were officially presented to Multi-National Division – Baghdad paratroopers during a ceremony, here, Oct 20.

Cav Medics Rush to Aid Local Man

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In between the long, daily tasks associated with patrolling the dangerous areas north of Baghdad, U.S. troops of have added another way to accomplish their mission of protecting the people of Iraq by saving lives along the Baghdad-Mosul highway.

Goal! Iraqi Soldiers and U.S. Marines Score Friendship Points on the Soccer Field

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

From the first century, when spectators filled the Roman Colosseum to cheer on their favorite fighters in the bloody gladiatorial contests, to the 1990s, when Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen led the Chicago Bulls to six championship wins in eight years, sports contests have been unifying fans all over the globe.

Wheelchair Donations Help Many at Moosawii Hospital

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A parent wants to nurture, cherish and provide everything for their child, but some families have to battle through the difficulties of caring for a child with special needs. This can place extreme strain on a family, especially when that family barely has the means to provide food on the table.

Helping Hand for Rashid Elementary School

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Children at a girl's school in the Rashid District of southern Baghdad, received school supplies from Iraqi federal police during a visit to the school, thanks to efforts from Soldiers of Company A, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team.

U.S. Army Medic Saves Young Iraqi Boy's Life

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

An U.S. Army medic with 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division saved the life of a young Iraqi boy after the child received several gunshot wounds from an unknown assailant, Sept. 20.

Soldiers Return Critical Grain Silo Back to Iraqi People

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A small ceremony marked the return of Salah ad Din province's most important grain storage site to the Government of Iraq, Oct. 6.

Black Knights Keep Communications Going in Iraq

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Have you ever stopped to think about what happens when you pick up a phone and make a call or when you pull up Internet Explorer and do a Google search for something specific during a deployment?

Joint U.S., Iraqi Military Medical Conference

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For the first time at al-Muthana Military Hospital, the only Iraqi military hospital in Baghdad, U.S. and Iraqi army doctors gathered for a joint medical conference to share knowledge and experience, Sept. 30.

Odierno: Continued Progress in Iraq Could Speed Withdrawal

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The United States may be able to draw down troop levels in Iraq quicker than anticipated if progress continues there, the commander of U.S. and coalition forces in Iraq said here, Sept. 30.

FOB Life Proves Unique Experience

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

I'm sure a lot of you have heard stories about "life on the FOB" in Iraq, just as I had before actually setting boots on the ground here in Baghdad – stories that included camel spiders and sandstorms.

Corps of Engineers Brings Parks to Kirkuk, Iraq

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

President Herbert Hoover once said, "Children are our most valuable resource."

U.S. Troops Cleaning Out 'Garages' in Iraq

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

American forces are cleaning out a "very, very big garage" in its drawdown in Iraq, the deputy commander of Multi-National Corps - Iraq said, Sept. 22.

School Brings Hope to Qarguli Neighborhood

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

At Thugger al-Iraq primary and secondary school in the Qarguli neighborhood of Baghdad, the 300 to 400 students have something to look forward to this year thanks to the efforts of West Virginia National Guardsmen.

Warrior Academy Helps Iraqis Improve Battle Skills

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers of Company A, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, are the instructors of the Warrior Academy at Joint Security Station Ur – a three-day academy designed to train Iraqis in everything from rifle marksmanship to first aid.

Iraqi Children Go From Mud Hut to New School

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The school children in the village of Chemin in Kirkuk province, Iraq, have always known the small mud house on the outskirts of their village as their school.

U.S., Iraqi Forces Spread Goodwill

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Paratroopers worked alongside their Iraqi army counterparts to deliver needed school supplies to two elementary schools during a combined humanitarian assistance mission in the town of Salman Pak, Iraq, Sept 13.

Taking Over: Iraqi Police Station Validated, Ready for Action

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Once known as a hub of insurgent activity and violence, the city of Hawijah, Iraq, and its residents received a ray of hope as another one of the city's police stations was validated, Sept. 3.

Service Members Work With Iraqi Businesses

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A woman with a head dress and pink eye shadow pointed at the different diagrams shown in a booklet explaining her business' capabilities during a fair held by the Victory Regional Contracting Center.

Bazaar Creates Cooperation, Bridges Cultural Differences

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With coalition forces operating within the parameters of the security agreement, most Soldiers no longer have the opportunity to experience much of Iraq's culture. That should change, to a small degree, soon on Contingency Operating Base Basra.

U.S. Soldiers Deliver Dog Food to Iraqi Police K-9 Unit

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A group of Soldiers from Command Post-North, Task Force Lighting, 25th Infantry Division; the 269th Military Police Company of the Tennessee National Guard and the Ninewa Provincial Police-Transition Team, 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, delivered more than 225 pounds of dog food that was donated by the boys from Cub Scout Pack 5 of Goldthwaite, Texas, to an Iraqi police K-9 unit in Mosul, Iraq, Aug. 24.

Security Mission Brings Iraqi, U.S. Soldiers Together

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The hot Iraqi sun blazed down on the Soldiers of Echo Troop, 5th Cavalry Regiment, Brigade Reconnaissance Troop, as they prepared their vehicles with the necessary equipment for the mission that lay ahead of them.

Small-arms Support Center Keeps Soldiers and Weapons Battle-ready

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Walking through the doors of the 402nd Army Field Support Brigade's Small Arms Support Center, the smell is unmistakable – the salty, acrid scent of weapons cleaner and lubricant fills the air.

American Pastime Boost Morale

Sat, 08 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

When you think of Soldiers serving in a combat zone the last thing you might envision is a group of service members gathered around a set of bleachers lacing up cleats and talking about what the batting order will be for the up and coming game.

Iraqi Women Take Business Into Their Own Hands

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

More than fifty Iraqi women met with Soldiers and contractors recently at the Basra Airport to discuss opportunities in business development and business contracting.

Airmen Assist Iraqis With Maintenance Training

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Whether it's on the flightline, in a hangar or in a backshop, members of the Iraqi air force are learning to fix their own helicopters, thanks to American Airmen who have shown them how.

U.S. Nurses Aid Iraqi Counterparts

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In the United States, patients typically see a nurse or technician first at a doctor's appointment, but the same does not hold true in Iraq.

U.S. Special Forces Leave Lasting Impact on ISOF Counter-terrorism Force

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In light of Iraq's recent decrease in violence and influx of stability, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) Soldiers were able to assist their Iraqi Special Operations Forces brothers in making great strides in their counter-terrorism operations.

Iraqi National Police Become 'Federal'

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Iraqi national police has changed its name to the federal police. The name change, which took effect Aug. 1, "goes side by side with the objectives of the national unity government," a police spokesman said.

Paratroopers Own Night in Air Assault Mission

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The heavy beating of rotor blades pierces the quiet of the night in farmland east of Baghdad and a dust cloud kicks up, almost concealing the two huge helicopters dimly outlined under the moonlight. Almost as soon as the helicopters touch the ground, ramps drop and dozens of American Soldiers, Iraqi soldiers and federal police storm out into the night and immediately snap into defensive positions.

Soldiers Shift Gears From Combat to Security

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Over the past month, Soldiers of Company A, 2nd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment have been learning new skills and taking on new challenges as they adapt to a different mission in Iraq.

Paxton Rangers Teach Marksmanship to Iraqi Army

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In spirit of the cooperation that has continued well past the June 30 Security Agreement deadline, which detailed the changeover in responsibility for the security of Iraq, U.S. Soldiers are working with their Iraqi partners.

Airmen Save Iraqi Girl's Life After Improvised Explosive Device Blast

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Thanks to security forces Airmen, emergency medics and hospital staff here, an Iraqi girl is still alive after an improvised explosive device detonated at her feet earlier this month.

Gates Says Iraq Drawdown May Accelerate Moderately

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said conditions in Iraq have improved to the extent that the U.S. combat brigade drawdown from the country may accelerate.

Joint Base Balad Airmen, Iraqi Children Get a Kick Out of Donations

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Airmen and Soldiers here aided in fostering strong relationships with Iraqi citizens by preparing and delivering donations from a stateside fraternity to be given to Iraqi children who live near the base, July 14 - 15.

American, Iraqi Soldiers Foster Friendships

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

American and Iraqi soldiers at Joint Security Station Zubaida are looking back on the friendships they have formed as the Iraqi army prepares to take over the small post a few miles south of Baghdad.

Historic Day for Future of Iraq

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Today is an important day for the nation of Iraq. In accordance with Article Five of the Security Agreement between the United States and the government of Iraq, signed in Baghdad in November of last year, Iraqi security forces now have full ownership of security in their cities, villages and localities.

Soldiers Help Preserve History

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers of the 172nd Infantry Brigade are enabling documentarians, historians and preservationists as they work to ensure ancient Iraqi history is preserved and documented in Babil province. The 172nd Inf. Bde. provides these experts transportation and security as part of their ongoing mission in support of the Babil Provincial Reconstruction Team.

Iraqi Troops Ready for Added Responsibility, Pentagon Spokesman Says

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The withdrawal of U.S. combat troops from all Iraqi cities and towns was completed over the weekend and ahead of tomorrow's deadline, a Pentagon spokesman said on a cable TV news show today.

American Soldier Connects to Iraqi Citizens With National Anthem

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With towering vocals that defy her small stature, Sgt. Brenda Bushera, a member of the 34th Red Bull Infantry Band, has made a connection with the people of Iraq.

United Service Organization, Morale, Welfare and Recreation Join Forces to 'Improve Our Foxhole'

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The familiar refrain of, "There's nothing to do around here after work!" is an endangered species here at Contingency Operating Base Basra.

Ironhorse Returns JSS Sadr City to Iraqi Army

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A common sense of triumph and accomplishment drifted in the air during the transfer ceremony in Sadr City in northeast Baghdad June 20.

Iraqi Army Officers Finish Staff Development Course

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers of the 17th Division Iraqi Army, Motorized Transportation Regiment, recently finished its first staff development course at Forward Operating Base Falcon, south of Baghdad.

Soldiers Help Battle Infant Mortality, Birth Defects in Iraq

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The doctors and medical staff of the 4th Infantry Division's 2nd "Warhorse" Brigade Combat Team conducted neonatal resuscitation training for local doctors here June 10 and 11.

Fighting Insurgents Through Improved Quality of Life

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Protecting the population, maintaining security and rebuilding the economy and infrastructure to satisfy basic human needs are all key aspects of counter insurgency.

Warhorse Brigade Assists Local Doctors to Save Infant Lives

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The doctors and medical staff of the Warhorse Brigade conducted neonatal resuscitation training at Contingency Operating Base Basra for local doctors June 10-11.

Building Foundations, Securing a Community

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The blue camouflage of the Iraqi national police and American gray/green camouflage flashes in and out of dark rooms in dilapidated, abandoned buildings in Doura, here, June 10. The derelict buildings are littered with trash, overgrown with vegetation and sometimes occupied by packs of stray dogs.

Water Bottling Plant Opens, Begins Production in Southern Iraq

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Leaders from the 3rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) and the Oasis International Waters Inc., opened a water bottling and purification plant during a ribbon cutting ceremony here June 1.

1st Air Cavalry Brigade Takes to the Skies Over Baghdad

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The distinctive yellow and red colors of the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Multi-National Division-Baghdad, were raised aloft the headquarters flagpole, June 2, as the brigade officially replaced the Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, MND-B, in a transfer of authority ceremony.

Getting a Taste of Iraqi Food, Culture

Fri, 29 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Multi-National Division—Baghdad food service Soldiers had the opportunity to experience a meal that isn't served in the dining facility where they work.

Regimental Combat Team 8 Marines Clear Lines of Communications for Iraqis

Thu, 28 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Now that coalition forces have begun to take the necessary steps toward a responsible drawdown, it's very important that they work to pass on their knowledge to Iraqi forces. Although the Iraqi security forces have most of the tools needed to keep their country safe, coalition forces must still contribute toward ensuring the ISF are ready to stand alone.

Brigade to Leave Southern Iraq 'A Much Better Place'

Wed, 27 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Southern Iraq is "a much better place to live and raise a family than it was a year ago," thanks to tremendous strides in security, governance, job opportunity and essential services, the commander of the 1st Cavalry Division's 4th Brigade Combat Team said on May 27.

Iraqi National Police, Warhorse Battalion Knock on Old Town's Doors

Tue, 19 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Insurgents thought they'd found a haven in Old Town, a neighborhood on the west side of Mosul, and the city's oldest area, but on April 15 the Mosul Iraqi national police brigade and 3rd "Warhorse" Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division joined forces and kicked off an operation to sweep, clear and census in this area.

Commander Highlights Progress North of Baghdad

Wed, 13 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Col. Marc Ferraro, commander of the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, told Iraqi journalists that his Pennsylvania Army National Guard Soldiers have improved security in the Taji and Tarmiyah regions, north of Baghdad.

Progress in Iraq - One Class at a Time

Sat, 09 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

How is progress measured? How can you tell if your hard work has actually made a difference?

Longknife Medics Train Iraqi Soldiers in Life-saving Skills

Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Baghdad Soldiers continue to train with their Iraqi security force partners in essential war-fighting skills, but not all training requires the firing of weapons.

Iron Brigade Troops Look Back on Deployment

Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

'The surge' of five additional brigades into Iraq was announced in January 2007, with an additional requirement of increasing the length of deployments from 12 to 15 months. Since then, coalition forces, Iraqi security forces, and local citizens have seen the beneficial after-effects of the surge, with many areas of Iraq now rebuilding and communities becoming safe to live and work in once again.

Panthers Make Footprints in New Baghdad

Mon, 04 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As the Soldiers of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team "Panthers," 82nd Airborne Division, walk the streets of New Baghdad, a neighborhood in eastern Baghdad, children run from their houses to shake hands with the Soldiers and ask questions about the United States.

5,000th M1114 HMMWV Transferred to Iraqi Security Forces

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

April 22 marked a milestone in U.S.-Iraqi relations with the transfer of the 5,000th M1114 HMMWV to the Iraqi security forces, helping them to be more equipped to provide the safety and security the people of Iraq need.

Cavalry Troopers Help Keep Sadr City Safe

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Sunlight is fading in Sadr City as Soldiers of Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, along with Iraqi Soldiers with 2nd Co., 3rd Bn., 42nd Iraqi Army Division, move down streets lined with houses in an effort to keep the city safer.

The Fighting 36th at Al Asad

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Texas guardsmen escort fuel convoys around Anbar province every week and build relationships with their Iraqi partners to support coalition operations.

2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment 'Demon' Tankers Mentor Iraqi Counterparts

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The M1A1 Abrams tank is one of the newest additions to the Iraqi army's arsenal. U.S. Army armor Soldiers and contracted civilians are assisting the 9th IA Division with getting their armored crewmen trained on the new equipment at Forward Operating Base Hammer.

Sixth Anniversary of Saddam's Fall - Black Knights, Iraqi Security Forces Protect Community, Keep Vi

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As cloud-covered skies unleashed a torrent of rain, thousands of people demonstrated in and around Baghdad's Sadr City on the sixth anniversary of the fall of Saddam Hussein, April 9. Similar rallies against coalition forces in Iraq ended in violence and bloodshed in previous years. This year, the "Black Knights" of the 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division were determined to not let history repeat itself.

Coalition Forces' Word Builds Solid Foundation at Local School

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Coalition forces, school officials and students took part in a ceremony April 5, at Michal al-Hurria, a small school in Abu Ghraib, to honor the hard work of coalition forces who were instrumental in renovating the school.

Iraq Army Delivers Toys, Freezer, Message to Local School

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

While many humanitarian missions in Iraq only provide supplies to communities, one recent mission also had a message to deliver.

Progress and Change in Al Anbar Province, Iraq

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

During their previous deployments most Soldiers saw a blistering operational tempo as U.S. forces tried to be everywhere in order to stay ahead of the insurgent forces.

Engineers Help 'plant' a Better Future in Southern Iraq

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Baseel Ali, deputy director of Agriculture for the Dhi Qar province cut a red ribbon at the Nasiriyah Tree-Nursery to officially open the facility, March 26.

Gaining Trust One Boo-boo at a Time: Medic Treats Children in Taji

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A Pennsylvania Army National Guard medic is making a big difference for children by providing just a little bit of medical care.

Adhamiyah Kindergarten Receives School Supplies

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

One hundred and fifty Iraqi kindergarteners go to school undeterred, day after day, to a building with peeling paint, shattered windows, crumbling stucco and inoperable restrooms in the Shamasiya neighborhood.

Iraqi Kids Receive New Wheelchairs: Iraqi National Police, U.S. Paratroopers Team Up for Delivery in

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Eighty-two Iraqi kids found a new reason to smile, thanks to efforts from Iraqi national police officers and U.S. Paratroopers in the Rusafa district of Baghdad, March 23.

Iraqi Police, U.S. Soldiers Deliver Humanitarian Aid in Babil

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The residents of a small village in rural Jawadia of the Babil province received an unexpected surprise recently.

Taking Time to Teach: Former Teacher Volunteers Time, Effort With English Lessons for Iraqis

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

It is 9 p.m. at al Muthana Army Base, home to the 6th Iraqi Army Division. The work day ended hours ago, but one small classroom is still lit up and a multitude of voices breaks the relative silence that has overtaken the rest of the post.

Fulfilling Jacob's Wish

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A month after a Colorado boy collected his toys and sent them to Iraq, a group of U.S. Paratroopers distributed the items to children in eastern Baghdad’s 9 Nissan District,

Iraqi, U.S. Soldiers Give Joint Aid to Musharah

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Iraqi and U.S. Soldiers conducted a joint humanitarian mission to provide medical attention and essential supplies to the citizens of Musharah near the military base, March 8.

'Kids of Iraq' Help Further Community Relations

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

More than 70 volunteers and chapel team members from across Joint Base Balad joined forces to sort through and prepare children’s items for distribution as part of a “Kids of Iraq” initiative, March 11.

Then and Now: Soldier Returns to Iraq

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

It’s been said that old Soldiers never die, they just fade away. But Sgt. 1st Class Gordon Ross, a 44 year-old native of North Bend, Wash., has no intention of fading away any time soon. In fact, he says he is just getting started.

New School Brightens Female Students' Futures

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Some of Diwaniya’s brightest young female students between 13 and 15 years old happily participated in their new school’s opening Feb. 26.

Soldiers Partner With Iraqi Forces, Share Cookies and Goodwill

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The Transportation Soldiers here that often escort convoys of supplies throughout northern Iraq have learned to work closely with Iraqi security forces, and it’s paid off.

On the Ground: Soldiers in Iraq Open Senior Center, Orphanage, Schools

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

U.S. Soldiers are making a difference in the lives of Iraqis, as evidenced recently by the opening of a senior center and orphanage, a new school and school renovations, and a refurbished joint security station.

Three Soldiers Help Secure Streets of Iraq

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Three Soldiers may complain about the traffic back home, but while pulling convoy security and driving down the dusty roads of Iraq during their year-long deployment traffic doesn’t seem to phase them.

Soldiers Host Women's Bazaar to Help Iraqi Families

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers with the 63rd Armor Regiment got the chance to buy homemade products and souvenirs and further the cause of Iraqi women and their families recently when they hosted a bazaar to sell the women's handiwork.

On the Ground: New Clinics, Schools, Supplies Improve Life for Iraqis

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

In ongoing humanitarian operations, Iraqi and coalition forces recently celebrated the opening of a medical clinic and three schools and delivered wheelchairs to Iraqi children.

Soldiers Bring Joy to Iraqi Children

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from the 18th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, visited the village of Tilkabar, located along the Turkey-Iraq border, in order to provide 600 Iraqi school children with gifts, school supplies and toys, Jan. 29.

Recycling Provides Jobs, Hope for Iraqi People

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers eating at Coalition Dining Facility stop to deposit plastic bottles into one bin, aluminum cans into another and trash into a third before exiting the building. This three-step process, while seemingly inconsequential, has enabled ser

Women's Initiative Improves Iraqi Quality of Life

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Women play a vital role in the United States. The same is true in Iraq, but there is little emphasis placed on their well-being.

Soldiers Distribute New School Supplies to Sadr City Children

Sat, 14 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Multi-National Division—Baghdad Soldiers distributed a variety of new school supplies to students and faculty at the Al Aqbas Elementary school in the Sadr City district of eastern Baghdad, Feb. 9.

Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Division Concludes Baghdad Deployment

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Another chapter has come to a close in the brief, but storied, history as the 4-year-old Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, completes its second deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Striker Soldiers, Charity Group Distribute Wheelchairs in Sadr City

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Some entered Baghdad’s Sadr City District Advisory Council compound Feb. 4, in small groups, others came alone. They were a diverse group, former military men injured while fighting insurgents, others victims of Saddam Hussein’s regime; the very old and the very young.

On the Ground: Americans Build Schools, Communities in Iraq

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

U.S. service members in Iraq are building communities and goodwill as their role there increasingly shifts to helping the Iraqis toward sovereignty.

Iraqi General Presents Award to U.S. Troops

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Brig. Staff Gen. Ali Haider Abdulhameed, Habbaniyah’s location commander for the Iraqi army, presented 13 U.S. service members from the Camp Al Taqaddum Surgical Team and Coalition Army Acquisition Team with certificates of appreciation, Jan. 29.

U.S. General Praises 'Successful, Legitimate' Iraqi Elections

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Iraq's government and its security forces deserve praise for overseeing the successful and mostly violence-free provincial elections that were held countrywide Jan. 31, a senior U.S. military officer posted in Iraq said today.

Iraqis vote peacefully in large numbers

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Sunni Muslims turned out in record numbers to cast ballots in Iraq's second round of democratic elections since an American-led coalition overthrew Saddam Hussein in 2003. The peacefulness of the elections highlighted the success of an American military surge and the Iraqi people's rejection of sectarian violence.

Camp Bucca Airmen Make a Difference With Smiles

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Every day before that sun rises, Airmen from the 887th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron prepare for their visit and control their access to detainees.

15 Months of Success

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Fifteen months ago, 2nd Platoon, 24th Ordnance Detachment, 39th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade, of Hunter Army Airfield Georgia and Fort Benning, Ga., arrived in Kuwait with a formation that was only 29 personnel strong.

Iraqi Family Accepts Sustainers Generosity

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The soccer balls, clothes, books and candy were very different from the usual loads of heavy equipment, but the transportation Soldiers hauling the load were proud of the mission.

Iraqi Security Forces, Multi-National Division-Baghdad Leaders Conduct Election Rehearsal at Combat

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

In support of the Security Agreement implementation, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers and their Iraqi security force partners conducted a combined rehearsal of their security plan for the upcoming provincial elections at Combat Outpost Meade in the Mahmudiyah Qada Jan. 25.

Face of Defense: Soldier Finds Freedom in U.S., Fights for Freedom in Iraq

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment, maintenance technician deployed here found his freedom in the United States and now fights so that Iraqis may enjoy what he has come to cherish.

'Kids of Iraq' Give to the Children of Baghdad

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Thanks to an early morning trip on a pair of Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, a team of service members transported more than 500 pounds of supplies to a group of young Iraqis in Baghdad.

On the Ground: Americans Witness Improvements in Iraq

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

U.S. service members and civilians are seeing the fruits of their labor in Iraq where, increasingly, they are celebrating completed projects and humanitarian efforts that build both infrastructure and relationships.

Largest Class of Women Graduates From Baghdad Police College

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Nearly 500 new Iraqi policewomen graduated from the Baghdad police college, Jan. 26, marking the largest female class ever to graduate from the school, officials said.

Iraqi Army Ready to Take Security Lead in Upcoming Elections

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The 17th Iraqi Army Division is ready to lead in security operations for the upcoming provincial elections in their country.

Operation Goodwill Aids Iraqis in Maysan

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Iraqi police from the Al Hussein Station, assisted by Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, joined forces during Operation Goodwill to send a positive message to the citizens in Amarah Jan. 23.

Corps of Engineers Marks Five Years of Progress in Iraq

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division marked five years of reconstruction progress in Iraq yesterday with more than 4,400 projects completed and turned over to the Iraqi government.

Reduced Violence Aids Iraq Reconstruction Efforts, General Says

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Greatly reduced violence in Iraq over the past year has aided in the completion of a multitude of reconstruction projects that benefit the Iraqi people, a senior U.S. military officer posted there said yesterday.

Rashid District Opens Doura Public Library With a Little Help From Raider Brigade

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, and Iraqi security forces joined local civic leaders Jan. 21 to commemorate the opening of the Doura Public Library in the Rashid district, christening a cultural and educational landmark for the Iraqi citizens of southern Baghdad.

Blackjack Bilingual Engineers Help Build Hope in Baghdad

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Since security has improved in northwest Baghdad, the 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, operationally attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, has developed many engineering projects to advance the citizens’ quality of life.

Logistics Training Team Shares Knowledge With Iraqi Army

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

History shows that for a military to fight, thrive and win sustained engagements, a reliable and efficient supply system is a necessity.

U.S. Military Signs Over Camp Ramadi, Iraq

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Camp Ramadi was signed over to the Iraq government in a memorandum of agreement signed by Iraqi army and U.S. military officials at Camp Ali, Iraq, Jan. 20.

Iraqi Children Receive School Supplies

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Approximately 200 Iraqi students of the Ur Primary School, located in the southern Iraqi city of Nasiriyah, could not hide their excitement with American forces Jan. 13.

Seminar Discusses Vision for Women's Rights

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

As America celebrates its civil rights progress, coalition and Iraqi leaders gathered for a Women’s Initiative Seminar on Camp Victory Jan. 17 bringing together assets from both national and provincial levels for the first time in its movement.

Emergency Room, Youth Center Opens in Seddah

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Community members and coalition forces participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of a new emergency room and youth center in Seddah Jan. 13.

Abu Ghraib Hospital Symbol of Success, Progress

Sun, 18 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The once war-ravished Abu Ghraib Hospital, west of Baghdad, is slowly but surely getting new life. What was once one crumbling building is now a sprawling complex, boasting new equipment to better care for the hundreds of thousands of people who live in the city.

U.S. Forces Give Humvees to Iraqi Army

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

As part of an ongoing effort to enhance the Iraqi army's combat effectiveness, the U.S. military has turned over thousands of armored Humvees.

Generous Donations Help Keep Karmah Children Warm During Winter

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Marines of Task Force 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, distributed shoes and cold-weather jackets to children living in Karmah, Iraq, Jan. 6.

Economic Improvements Show Promise in Multi-National Division - Center

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

As in many other aspects of the country of Iraq, improvements are visible within its economic structure, and if continued as planned has nowhere to go but up.

City of Rashaad Renovates, Reopens Al Mamoon School

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Imagine a typical child’s school classroom in the United States. You will usually find desks, chairs and big, white dry-erase boards. In schools with better funding, you’ll have televisions, computers and screen projectors. But what about the basics? Of course, it’s easy to overlook the four walls, windows and doors of a classroom, at least in the United States.

Security Agreement Provides Hope

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

As Iraqis continue to take steps toward making their nation autonomist, Iraqis possess new hopes and expectations for better things to come.

Women's Educational Initiatives Take Priority in Multi-National Division - Center

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Not only has the safety and security situation in Iraq improved in the last year, but the educational system, especially for females, is also progressing.

Face of Defense: Soldier Teaches Techniques to Iraqi Farmers

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Iraqi farmers, still struggling from two decades of neglect under the oil-focused regime of Sadaam Hussein, are finding a friend in Army Capt. Suzanne Todd.

End in Sight for War in Iraq, Bush Says

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The war in Iraq isn't over, but a successful end is in sight, thanks to hard work between the United States and Iraq, President George W. Bush said in his weekly radio address on Dec. 6.

School Opening Offers Hope for Children of Ghazaliya

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The day was bright – as were the smiles on the faces of the families and children in attendance at the Nov. 25 opening of Nahwaran School in the Ghazaliya district of northwest Baghdad.

Strikers Celebrate Thanksgiving With Local Leaders

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

One Multi-National Division – Baghdad brigade shared the holiday experience of Thanksgiving with Iraqi leaders Nov. 30.

Soldiers Improve Life for Citizens in Baghdad District

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

A task force of National Guard soldiers has spent nearly $450,000 during the past three months to improve living conditions for residents of eastern Baghdad’s Rusafa district.

News School Offers New Hope to Nablus Children

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

If knowledge is power and the pen is actually mightier than the sword, then the refurbishing and reopening of the Nablus school in the Yarmouk community of northwest Baghdad, Nov. 23, will serve to empower the children of Mansour with the skills necessary to improve their lives.

Blackjack Soldiers Reopen Pool, Enrich Neighborhood

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

In many American communities, the neighborhood pool is a place to meet up with friends and have some fun while trying to beat the hot summer days.

Engineers Move Forward With Operation Peace for Iraqi Children

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Students of the Al Kifah Girls School in the Rusafa District of Baghdad received much needed school supplies, toys and clothing, Nov. 18, from Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers.

Iraqi Army Takes One More Step Toward Self-sufficiency

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

An explosives ordnance disposal team, assigned to the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division traveled to Combat Outpost Six to train the newly-formed 10th Iraqi army EOD team on Nov 7.

Soldiers Build Up Infrastructure in Iraq

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

In addition to their mission of restoring and improving Iraq’s infrastructure, civil-military operations soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division’s 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, also are adjusting to the changing dynamics of operations as U.S. forces turn more areas over to Iraqi control.

Soldiers Treat Ailing Iraqis

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

When Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, first arrived in Iraq in November 2007, they had many things in mind to help to improve the lives of the citizens in Rathwaniyah, just on the outskirts of Baghdad.

Iraqi People Receive Much Needed Water

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Multi-National Division-Baghdad Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division supplied Iraqis from the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad with much needed water Nov. 1, 2008 after terrorists attempted to destroy a vital waterline in the district Oct. 30.

Sustainers Deliver New Desks to School in Muthanna

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Sustainers from the 7th Sustainment Brigade delivered over a hundred refurbished school desks to the newly built Al-Fadhliya secondary school Tuesday, as hundreds of Iraqi junior-high aged girls waited patiently outside.

Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers Help Turn Abandoned Private Carnival Into Public Park

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

“As I drove by the Army canal every day, I saw this park, and I said this is something we can do to help the citizens,” said Col. John Hort, commander of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

Security Responsibility Returns to Iraqis in Wasit Province

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Complete security and governance responsibilities transferred to Iraqi officials in Wasit province today, giving Iraq’s government responsibility for more than two-thirds of the country, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters during a news conference today.

Marines Reach Out to Small-Town Kids

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When people typically think of Marines on a combat patrol in Iraq, the last thing that comes to mind is the image of fluffy stuffed animals.

Captive School Free Again

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

More than thirteen months following a sting of violence, the face of Ameriyah has changed. With security stable because of the tight grip coalition forces have on al-Qaida in Iraq members, clinics are reopening, shops and markets seem constantly busy and smiling faces light the streets of Baghdad.

Iraqi, U.S. Forces Work Together Toward Success

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Iraqi soldiers and police and U.S. soldiers who live and work together at the Joint Security Station in Diwaniya, Iraq, are dedicated to one goal: a self-sustaining and independently secure Iraq.

School Opens, Life Returns to Normal

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Since June of this year, there has been a significant decline in violence throughout Baghdad, specifically in the Mansour, Kadhamiyah and Karkh Districts of northwest Baghdad.

Unity Through Music

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Victor Hugo once said, “Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.” This is an ideal that the 1st Armored Division band members brought to Iraq with them, making unity their musical expression.

Bicycles Put Smiles on Iraqi Childrens' Faces

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Staff Sgt. Fernando Diaz almost forgot about the special cargo he was carrying around in the back of his armored humvee until he saw a young Iraqi child playing in the dirt.

Last One Turn Out the Lights: Marines Quietly Begin Leaving Bases in Iraqi Cities

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When Marine Maj. Gen. John Kelly deployed to Iraq in February, the violence had fallen so low in Anbar province that he began figuring out how to start closing bases and prepare to go home.

Iraqi Generator Techs Keeping the Lights on

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Electricity is necessary to run an army, and the Iraqi army of today is no exception. Throughout the country, generators are found powering both military bases and civilian neighborhoods due to the lack of centralized power plants. These generators are the heart of the military and the country of Iraq.

Jihad Community Puts on Show for Soldiers, Local Leaders /Community Shows Support During Banner Cont

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Iraqi security forces and local leaders organized a community event, Oct. 17, 2008, at the Jihad Neighborhood Council building in the Rashid District of southern Baghdad.

Erbil Police Academy Handed Over to Government of Iraq at Celebration of New Campus

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Erbil police academy was handed over to the government of Iraq during a celebration on the new campus. The morning's events also included dedication of a bronze bust of Army 1st Lt. Ashley Henderson and a pass in review of Iraqi police officers and cadets.

Ceremony Signifies Sons of Iraq Transfer of Authority

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

To recognize the northwest Baghdad Sons of Iraq’s official transfer of authority from coalition forces to the Iraqi army, Multi-National Division - Bagdad Soldiers and Iraqi security forces held a ceremony at Muthana Airfield on Oct. 11, 2008.

BSTB Soldiers Pass Out Soccer Balls to School Children in Beladiyat

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Iraqi school children watched in anticipation as Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers handed out ten soccer balls during their visit to an elementary school in the Beladiyat area of eastern Baghdad, Oct. 9, 2008.

Iraqi Army Takes Over Sons of Iraq Program

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The government of Iraq and Iraqi army officially took over the Sons of Iraq program during a ceremony in the Mahmudiyah Qada, Oct. 12, 2008.

MND-C Soldiers Hand Over Patrol Base to IA

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Sheikhs and other community representatives joined coalition and Iraqi army leadership as the Iraqi army assumed control of another patrol base from coalition forces in Sayifiyah, Oct. 9, 2008.

Iraqi Policemen Keep Celebration Peaceful

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Iraqis gathered by the hundreds in the Qadassiah neighborhood of Tikrit as they celebrated Eid ul-Fitr, a massive celebration marking the end of Ramadan, Oct. 1, 2008.

Rakkasans Hand Out Donated School Supplies

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Rakkasan Soldiers and their Iraqi army counterparts delivered school supplies to children in the Mahmudiyah Qada Oct. 6-8, 2008.

U.S. Officer Reports 'Tremendous Success' in Southern Iraq

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Security and stabilization efforts in three southern Iraqi provinces are going well, a senior U.S. military officer posted in Iraq said today.

Iraqi Engineers Move Three Steps Closer to Independence

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A partnership between the 890th Engineer Battalion and the 6th Iraqi Army to educate and integrate the Iraqi engineers into route clearance patrols in Baghdad has developed into a very successful step in the road to the Iraqi army conducting independent route clearance operations as of Oct. 3, 2008. This is another step forward in the ability of the government of Iraq to provide its citizens the security and safety of an independent Iraq.

Iraqis Partner With Garry Owen During Aerial Mission

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers of the 38th Iraqi Army Brigade and the 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division completed their second combined tactical air insertion, Sept. 28, 2008.

Marine Wing Support Squadron-274 Provides Security, Essential Services to Local Villages

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

For seven months, Marine Wing Support Squadron 274’s security battalion has patrolled the desert outside the gates of Al Asad Air Base 24 hours a day.

3RD ESC Soldiers, Iraqi Government Join Forces to Provide Clean Drinking Water for Abdul Razaq

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from the 7th Sustainment Brigade gathered with local Iraqi leaders in Abdul Razaq to participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony of the village’s water purification unit, Sept. 30, 2008.

Coalition Forces Help Those Who Are Most Helpless

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Reserve Marines from 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment and 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, both attached to Regimental Combat Team 5, spent the day Sept. 24, 2008 delivering food supplies for economically disadvantaged families in Rutbah, a town of about 17,000 residents in western al-Anbar province.

16th SB Medics Strengthen US, Iraq Relationship at Local Clinic

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Medics from Logistics Task Force Alpha, 16th Special Troops Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, provided immunizations to local Iraqi children at the Ibrahim Khaleel Health Clinic near Habur Gate Sept 10, 2008.

Strike Brigade Delivers English School Books to Ministry of Education in Northwest Baghdad

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

With a new school year approaching, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), are reaching out to the schools in northwest Baghdad as part of a school partnership program.

Renegades Hand Out Meals, Smiles to Sadr City Residents

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Winning the hearts and minds of the local population is the new target for the "Renegades" of Company A in the 4th Infantry Division.

Face of Defense: Soldier Helps Iraqi Schools With Support From Home

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A Multinational Division Baghdad soldier has reached back home to gather English school books for use in classrooms here.

Renegades Hand Out Toys to Children in Sadr City

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

After the lethal fighting in Sadr City and Jamilla died down with the construction of the wall on Jamilla/Al Quds Road, the Soldiers of Company A, Task Force 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment “Renegades,” Multi-National Division - Baghdad, transitioned to winning the hearts and minds of the local population.

Wisconsin Native Helps Iraqi Schools With Support From Home

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldier has reached back to his native homeland to gather English school books for use in Baghdad classrooms.

Soldiers Help Iraqi Farmers Feed Water Buffalo

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Agriculture began more than 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent of the Middle East. Today it is still a primary economic activity of the people of Iraq.

Iraqi President Praises Bush As Liberator of Iraq

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Iraqi people look upon President Bush as a liberator who delivered them from a brutal despot, Iraq's chief executive told reporters at the White House on Sept. 10 2008. Bush is a hero who saved Iraq "from the worst kind of dictatorship" under Saddam Hussein, Iraqi President Jalal Talabani said.

Soldiers Reopen Road, Stimulate Business in Iraqi Market

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

News of the grand reopening of Aden Street on the Suk Shelal Market in the Shaab neighborhood here was greeted with great enthusiasm from the public.

New Bridge Unites Sister Cities in Iraq

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A $6.5 million project south of Baghdad shows the Iraqi government’s commitment to improving people’s lives in poorer areas that were ignored by the former regime, Iraq’s vice president said at the Aug. 28 dedication ceremony for a new bridge that links the sister cities of Kufa and Najaf.

Youth Center Opens in Anah

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A virtue of a good guest is to leave things better than you found them.

Pool Reopening Symbolizes Return to Normalcy in Beida

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

In what was once a recruiting hotbed for terrorist and special groups elements in northern Baghdad, community leaders gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of a pool complex that now serves as a spot of relief for residents.

Historic Day a Signature of Transition to Peace, Security in Anbar

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The governor and the commanding general of all the Iraqi security forces for al-Anbar took full control and responsibility for security from coalition forces, which has loosened control of the once deadly province.

Improving Health Care in Al-Kut

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Iraqi and U.S. Army doctors visited the Theeba clinic in al-Kut and treated more than 230 patients in a combined medical engagement organized by the 41st Fires Brigade.

Soldiers Strive to Improve Conditions for Iraqis

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When Army Staff Sgt. David Cox looks at a map of Baghdad and sees the neighborhoods that form a little block in the southern part of the city known as Abu Tshir, he realizes how tenuous a position his platoon and fellow soldiers are in.

Operation Iraqi Children Delivers in Baghdad

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Anxious but appreciative orphan children in the Salhiya District of Baghdad had something to smile about when Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers arrived, Aug. 13, 2008, to hand out school supplies as part of an assistance mission named “Operation Iraqi Children.”

Return to Normalcy - Relationship Between the Coalition Forces, Iraqi People - Positive Steps Forwar

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

In the southern Rishad valley in the Kirkuk province, lies the remote village of Gaydah; located several miles off the nearest main road and even further from the nearest substantial city or district. Already accustomed to seclusion, the village residents are surprised when Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 22nd Inf. Regt., 1st Brigade, 10th Mountain Division showed up in their community in February.

Kicking a Path to Freedom

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Throughout modern history, sports have helped recovering regions come together.

New Police Station Opens in Southwestern Baghdad

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Leaders from Iraqi security forces and Multinational Division Baghdad came together Aug. 12 for the grand opening of a new landmark in local security for Iraqis in southwestern Baghdad.

Summer Youth Program Cleans Up Taji Market

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Youths from Taji teamed up Aug. 11 as part of a summer youth hire program to clean up the Taji Market, northwest of Baghdad.

Marine Gives Child the Gift of Mobility

Sat, 09 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Parents rarely expect their children to be born with a debilitating birth-defect, so when the parents of Balquis Rajib Ascar discovered her inability to walk, they were a bit unprepared.

Progress Continues on School Construction Near Baghdad

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

For five years, U.S. soldiers have built and refurbished schools in Iraq and have supplied them with better resources with hopes of providing a better education for Iraqi children.

Backpacks Full of Hope: 3rd MAW (Fwd) Opens Iraqi and American Friendship Project Logistics Center

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Over 1,000 Iraqi children may soon have school supplies thanks to 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) with the launch of the Human Unity Begins project and the grand opening of a logistics center at Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron, May 19, 2008.

Baghdad Elementary School Reopens After Refurbishment

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Harat elementary school in southern Baghdad's Rashid District reopened, July 31,2008, after two months of refurbishment.

Variety of Factors Contribute to Progress in Iraq, General Says

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A combination of factors is responsible for the improved conditions in Iraq, the commander of coalition forces in the northern part of the country said today.

School Refurbishment Strengthens Community, MND-B Soldiers Provide Over Watch

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The al-Harat Elementary School in the Rashid District of southern Baghdad will open its new doors to more than 1,000 Iraqi boys and girls in September.

Soldiers, Iraqi Doctors Provide Medical Care to Baghdad Residents

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Many families in Iraq have a variety of ailments due to malnutrition and lack of potable water and basic care.

Iraqi City Holds First Arts Festival Since 2003

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The citizens of Seddah, Iraq, held the city's first arts festival since the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime.

Renovated Elementary School Opens in Samrah

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Samrah Jungle residents and coalition forces attended a grand opening of the Samrah Jungle Elementary School, July 25.

Soldiers Energize Clinic

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The local citizens who use the medical clinic in the Hateen apartments will now have 24-hour power thanks to the assistance of coalition forces.

Iraqi and Coalition Doctors Make a Difference

Sat, 26 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Navy surgeons and corpsmen with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 5 and 3rd Marine Air Wing (Forward) worked with Iraqi doctors to provide medical services here July 23–24, 2008.

A Boost to the Economy

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A large percentage of new businesses in the U.S. fail within the first year. Starting a business in Iraq is no different, if not harder, but with the help of Marines with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, four Iraqi businessmen have hopes of beating the odds.

Wolfhounds, GoI Work to Rebuild Education

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The schoolhouse is run down. Water leaks through numerous cracks in the roof and air conditioners do not operate, effectively causing temperatures inside the building to climb to unbearable lengths.

Salman Pak Opens New Youth Center

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Less than four months after construction for the Salman Pak youth center began, the facility opened and was dedicated, July 21.

Al-Ferdous School Opens in New Baghdad

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Local officials in the 9 Nissan District in eastern Baghdad pulled out their scissors and ribbon, July 22, but they weren’t wrapping up a present. Or were they?

IA Soldiers Learn to Care for Their Own

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Cries of help, from soldiers of the 24th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division broke the silence of a training exercise at Camp Constitution, northwest of Baghdad, July 16.

Soldiers, IA Make New Friends in Suwayrah

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Walking down the busy streets of Suwayrah at sundown, the city’s residents met Soldiers with handshakes and friendly smiles. Children gathered everywhere the Soldiers stopped to talk to residents.

Government Center a Symbol of Progress in Ramadi

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Provincial Government Center for al Anbar, located in the heart of downtown Ramadi, was a vicious and violent battleground for much of the last five years.

Baghdad Pool Reopens After Refurbishment

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Summer days in Baghdad often rival the hottest days around the globe, and until recently, many residents of central Baghdad’s Karkh district did not have a place they could visit to escape from the heat.

Literacy Program Key to Iraqi Women's Future

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A middle-aged Iraqi woman, widowed and a mother of two young children, walks into a cream-colored concrete classroom filled with women of all ages. The woman, draped in a black abaya, sits down in a wooden desk-chair and gazes at the instructor with a look of determination and conviction. She knows, along with the other women in the classroom, she must learn to read and write if she is going to continue to support and properly care for her two children. The woman has taken the

Iraqi Maternity Hospital Construction Nears Completion

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

With the delivery of two large truckloads of medical equipment, hundreds of mothers-to-be soon will benefit from the opening of a refurbished maternity hospital in western Baghdad’s Karkh district.

Playground Opens in Al Thobad Village

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Major General Hannin al Ameer performed a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, opening a new playground for al Thobad village, on the outskirts of al Kut, July 4.

Success Builds on Success in Iraq, Coalition Official Says

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Success is building on success in Iraq, a senior military official said yesterday at a news conference in Baghdad. Navy Rear Adm. Patrick Driscoll, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq, said the total number of security incidents in Iraq now sits at 2004 levels

Electrical Generation Makes Progress in Iraq

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Iraqi and coalition personnel are using the security improvements of the past year to make tremendous progress on the energy front, the director of energy for Multinational Force Iraq said yesterday. At a news conference in Baghdad, British Brigadier Carew Wilks said repairing Iraq’s neglected and battered energy infrastructure -- including pipelines carrying fuel and power lines carrying electricity -- is the focus of his office.

Infantry Soldiers Share Bond With Iraqi Comrades

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers and Iraqi National Police officers share the stresses and successes of providing security and stability in Iraq as they work side by side every day to protect the people of Baghdad.

General Welcomes Challenge of Building Up Iraqi Police

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Markets, Schools, Businesses Demonstrate Peace, Prosperity in Iraqi City

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Soldiers Help Iraqi Mothers Meet Children's Needs

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers Secure Piece of Iraqi Religious History

Tue, 20 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers Bring Hope to Urs' Last Standing Primary School for Girls

Tue, 20 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers Extend Hand to Iraqi Children

Mon, 12 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

From building schools to distributing toys to buying wheelchairs, Task Force Marne soldiers are working to improve the quality of life for Iraqi youth.Army Spc. Joseph Rivera Rebolledo serves in Multinational Division Baghdad with the 4th Infantry Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office.

Progress Continues in Iraq, Despite Singular Acts of Violence

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Success on the ground in Iraq is being overshadowed by spectacular attacks designed to draw attention from good things that are happening there, a U. S. Central Command officer told online journalists and bloggers in a July 19 conference call.

Combat Aviation Brigade Soldiers Seek Self-improvement Through Education

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

South African human rights activist and symbol of international peace, Nelson Mandela, once said, "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world."

Livestrong Challenge Brings Cancer Fight to Iraq

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Service members and civilians gathered from around Victory Base Complex, Baghdad, Iraq in the early hours of, Oct. 25, to "pick a fight against cancer" in support of the Lance Armstrong Foundation's Livestrong Challenge.

Wounded Veterans Return to Iraq

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After stepping on an improvised explosive device during an ambush Nov. 29, 2006, Spc. Craig Chavez nearly died. His face took most of the blast. He lost his left eye and took shrapnel to the right, rendering him blind. Being evacuated home, he thought he would never see again.

Face of Defense: Wounded Soldier Refuses to Quit

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A sudden accident may have cost Army Staff Sgt. Luis Elias his hand, but it hasn't stripped him of his positive attitude or impacted his plans for the future.

Improving Our Foxhole: MWR Opens for Soldiers on COB Basra

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The new Morale, Welfare, and Recreation facility located at the Red Bull Life Sustainment Area on Contingency Operating Base Basra opened for Soldiers after a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Oct. 4.

Service Members, Civilians Shadow Army 10-miler

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

More than 980 service members and civilians gathered around the Victory Stage, Camp Victory, Iraq, to run the Army 10-miler hours before it was run in Washington.

115th Fires Brigade Convoy Security Travels Over Million Miles, No Injuries

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Security Force and Convoy Security components of the 115th Fires Brigade from Cheyenne Wyo. reached a major milestone, Sept. 18 by traveling over one million miles throughout Kuwait and Iraq during the deployment without any serious injuries.

Officials Announce Family Program Expansion

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Officials in the Pentagon's Office of Military Community and Family Policy have announced the upcoming expansion of a popular child care program and other news affecting military families.

Wounded Veterans Find Therapy in Sports Clinic

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

More than 60 wounded veterans suffering disabilities ranging from post-traumatic stress to amputations are learning "to live again" this week through competition at the 2nd Annual National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic in San Diego.

Lone Paratrooper Cooks for Base, Lifts Morale

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Many Soldiers at small bases located throughout Afghanistan have one or two hot meals each day. They often eat packaged food, called "Meals, Ready-to-Eat," or other pre-made rations. However, Soldiers get a special treat every now and again.

Personal Goals

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As some Soldiers in the Victory Base Complex wake each morning to begin the day's missions, others are just completing their work and heading to the gym, or even just to sleep.

'Second Lady' Lauds Employers for Support of Military Employees

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The self-proclaimed "second lady" of the United States commended 15 employers yesterday who, despite tough economic times, went above and beyond what the law requires to support their military employees.

Face of Defense: Marine Celebrates Three Decades of Service

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

People have the option of serving two to four years in the U.S. military, but some choose to serve many more.

PICK Offers Relationship Tools for Single Soldiers, Airmen

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The North Dakota National Guard's Office of the Chaplain will host a workshop to help single Soldiers and Airmen hone the skills they need for a successful, lifelong relationship.

Books on Bases, Smiles on Faces Helps Children Escape Stress

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Imagine walking through a magical forest full of fairies and gnomes or exploring outer space where mysterious green aliens hide behind every corner.

More Than Happy to Assist Soldiers, Civilian Contractors' Mobility

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Flying through the desert can be a daunting idea for Soldiers and civilian con-tractors traveling in Iraq. But the Baghdad International Airport terminal works hard to alleviate all worries and issues in order to get people to their destinations.

Soldier Conquers Suicidal Thoughts, Urges Others to Get Help

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Army Capt. Emily Stehr, a physical therapist with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, is in the business of healing. But five months after returning from Iraq, she was struggling with her own internal wounds of war that had not healed. She decided to kill herself.

Musical Talent Boosts Soldiers Morale

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Music fills the air of the small patrol base as Soldiers gather around a multi-talented musician.

Kennedy to Be Buried at Arlington National Cemetery

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts Sen. Edward M. Kennedy will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery near his brothers, Defense Department officials said today.

Elementary Students, Staff Send Patriotic Messages to Marines in Afghanistan

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Some people will walk up to Marines in public and shake their hands to say 'thank you' for their service. Others take it a few steps further by saying their thanks on hundreds of feet of paper.

Troy's Place Rededicates Namesake's Memorial Portrait

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Members of the wing chapel staff and the company-grade officers council here joined at Troy's Place to rededicate a memorial photograph-illustration of the late Maj. Troy Gilbert, for whom the facility was named.

Martha Stewart Living in Iraq

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The 304th Sustainment Brigade and Joint Base Balad have their own Martha Stewart tucked in the H-6 housing area here.

Soldier's Dream Comes True

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A Soldier's dream of citizenship came true in a ceremony at Al-Faw Palace in Baghdad, July 4.

Yellow Ribbon Program Provides Support Services

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Yellow Ribbon Program is "off and running," said the program's deputy executive director, James "Scotty" Scott.

War Fighters Support Social Networking Sites

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The sounds of clicking keyboards and cheerful reactions are often heard inside the Internet cafés supporting the U.S. Central Command rest and recuperation pass program at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar. The U.S. military installation removes war fighters from the stress of combat operations while providing various venues to reconnect online with family and friends. Servicemembers often log into e-mail accounts but are relying more and more on social networking software, such as Facebook and

Qatar Base Fundraiser Proceeds, Participation Doubles

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Renee Acosta, Global Impact president and CEO, presented Col. Maxine C. Girard, U.S. Army Central Area Support Group Qatar commander, with proceeds raised during the 2008 Combined Federal Campaign Overseas fundraiser at Camp As Sayliyah, Aug. 13.

Soldier in Focus - 1st Lt. Michael Cirillo

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

If patriotism and heroics are in any way hereditary, 1st Lt. Michael Cirillo, executive officer with A Company, 46th Engineer Combat Battalion (Heavy), seems predestined for absolute greatness.

Soldier Credits Civilian Employer for Military Success

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Army Command Sgt. Maj. Rob Lawrence's position as the Colorado National Guard's top enlisted soldier is underscored by nearly 25 years of steadfast support from his civilian employer.

Summer Recruiting Remains Strong Across Services

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

July was a boom month for military recruiting, with more than 15,000 young men and women entering the active-duty force, defense officials reported today.

Iraq-bound Troops Receive Gift From Local Community

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A company of Ohio National Guardsmen bound for Iraq received a double-dose of Hoosier Hospitality and respite from training Sunday evening at a local theater where they were treated to a movie and concessions courtesy of the Franklin community.

Iraqi, U.S. Soldiers Welcomed to NCO Corps Together

Sat, 08 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Army tradition of recognizing newly promoted non-commissioned officers to the NCO corps is through an NCO induction ceremony, a time-honored tradition for the U.S. Army which has been shared with the new Iraqi army.

Alabama Native Wins U.S. Central Command's NCO of the Year Award

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

People join the military for many reasons, some for college assistance, some to stay out of trouble and some to fulfill a patriotic need to serve their country.

Relief Society Provides Aid to Service Members

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

There are times when someone may find himself down on his luck. One day he's cruising down the street in his new car, and the next day it won't start. Now he has a car that's out of order and he can't afford to fix it. So what does he do?

Education Center Offers Guidance, Services

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Deployment can alter a Soldier's plans, but there is a resource available so Soldiers can continue their education during this time.

"Blackhawks" Provide Financial Services for "Ironhorse" Troops

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from the Detachment B "Blackhawks," 208th Financial Management Company, 10th Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division are currently embedded with the 1st "Ironhorse" Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division at Joint Security Station War Eagle, north of Baghdad, to provide Soldiers financial services.

Marines Build Motivation With Recognizable Image

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

What is needed to get through a combat deployment? Some might say the answer is perseverance, determination and motivation.

U.S. Forces Afghanistan Logs 20,000 Facebook Fans

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Forces Afghanistan's Facebook page logged its 20,000th fan on July 23, passing the milestone a little more than two months after going public, making it the fastest-growing official military Facebook page, military officials here said.

From Country Roots to Combat Boots, Marine Sings His Patriotism

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Sitting in the desert, a thousand miles away from home, Lance Cpl. Stephen D. Davis, an infantryman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, thinks about his lifetime and all the songs he wrote.

Veteran Non-commissioned Officer Wants to Make a Difference

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Staff Sgt. Matthew J. Fischer, squad leader, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 81st Brigade Special Troops Battalion, Washington Army National Guard, is on his third deployment to Iraq.

Communications Marine Leads the Way to a Brighter Future

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As Staff Sgt. Phillip Livingston neared the end of his senior year in high school in 1998, he heard his nation's call to service, and upon graduation enlisted in the Marine Corps.

Multi-National Division-South Soldiers 'adopted' by Minnesota Company

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division recently received more than 50 care packages from their adopter – Alliant Techsystems based in Minneapolis.

Soldier Spreads the Love With Care Packages

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Staff Sgt. Dale O'Neill recently received 120 pounds of goods in care packages from friends and family, but the Memphis, Tenn., native didn't end up with any of the items.

Group Sponsors Annual Children's 'Freedom Art' Contest

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As it gears up for its 7th Annual Children's Freedom Art Contest, a North Carolina-based troop-support group is looking for patriotic drawings or paintings that signify the unyielding spirit of America after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

'He Stepped Up to the Occasion, and Exhibited Some Incredible Bravery That Day'

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Staff Sgt. Philip Crosby was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with combat distinguishing device for heroic achievement and sustained meritorious service during combat operations at a ceremony, here, June 10.

Army Takes New Approach to Suicide Prevention

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As the number of Soldiers committing suicide continues to rise, the Army's suicide prevention campaign shifts its focus to junior leaders in an effort to arm them with the tools they need to help their Soldiers before a problem reaches a tragic end.

Native Iraqi, U.S. Soldier to Receive Citizenship

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Iraq native Spc. Ammar Al Khalidi, an interpreter with the 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, will receive his U.S. citizenship July 4 during a ceremony at Victory Base Complex here.

Soccer Balls and Dolls: Americans Make Iraqi Children Smile

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Dozens of Iraqi children rallied at their village schoolhouse, which was one of three neighborhoods visited, inside an Iraqi compound, May 27, to receive items donated by Americans that had been shipped to a group of Soldiers serving a one-year tour in Iraq.

Racing Through Deployment

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For Soldiers with the 225th Engineer Brigade, from Pineville, La., each day is full of twists and turns as missions change.

College Coaches Visit Joint Base Balad

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Several college football coaches visited, May 31, as part of the 2009 College Coaches Tour sponsored by Armed Forces Entertainment.

City in Oklahoma Appoints Ambassador to Military Families

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Having been part of their tightly knit community all her life, Teresa Vance always has had an interest in military families. Her father made a career out of the Army, serving in World War II and Korea. Her husband was a career surface warfare officer in the Navy, and her son spent four years in the Marine Corps.

Defeating Combat Stress

Thu, 28 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Fighting a war can be stressful no matter what job you do in the military. The Combat Stress Control Center is one ally established throughout Iraq that works to fight stress -- or at least teach individuals how to manage it.

Troop Support Group Hits Target's Charity Bullseye

Thu, 28 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Operation Gratitude will receive $232,948 from Target as part of the company's first online giving campaign.

A Time to Remember

Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers with the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team took time to honor their fallen at a Memorial Day service, May 25, on Camp Taji, Iraq.

Memorable Naturalization Ceremony

Mon, 25 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Service members celebrated their first Memorial Day as U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony on May 25 at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan.

VA Recognizes Military Sacrifices on Memorial Day

Mon, 25 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

From parades to somber ceremonies and a moment of silence, Americans will recall the sacrifices of military members who paid the ultimate price for freedom on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25.

Rolling Thunder Roars Through Nations' Capital

Mon, 25 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Pam Crane sat peacefully in a patch of freshly mowed grass along Highway 27 here in the nation's capital, remembering her husband, his patriotism and his cause.

Marines Grab Attention in Times Square

Sun, 24 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Above the blare of passing taxi horns and the shouting street food vendors rang out a steady cadence call of a New York Marine sounding off as a sweating civilian attempted one more push up as part of Marine Day Times Square, May 23.

Supply and Demand: Soldier Furnishes Needed Equipment to Frontline Troops

Thu, 21 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As a supply clerk, it's Spc. Francisco Rivera Gonzales' job to get essential equipment to the frontline troops when they need it most.

Local High School Students Get Inside Look at 386th

Tue, 19 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The 386th Air Expeditionary Wing hosted 75 high school students from the local America-Mideast Educational and Training Services language training center during a visit to the base May 16.

Reaching Back to the Next Generation: Soldier in Iraq Speaks With Students in Ohio

Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A group of fifth graders from Dayton, Ohio, had a special treat this week. They spoke to a former student who is now serving in Iraq, via the Internet.

North Carolina Soldier Finishes Degree in Iraq

Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Staff Sgt. Rocky L. Sampson, a Lumberton, N.C. native, supply sergeant, 50th Signal Battalion, is scheduled to earn his associate's degree in Applied Science in Criminal Justice from Central Texas College, May 17, at the Al Faw Palace, Baghdad.

Sustainer Choir Inspires Unit

Mon, 11 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The newly formed Sustainer Choir made their first performance at the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) prayer luncheon at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation east center here on April 4.

Because They Care - Transporters Recognize Home in Iraq

Mon, 11 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Hidden away somewhere underneath all the gear, most Soldiers carry an item or two that their supply sergeants did not issue them.

'Little Warriors' Surf Camp to Host 100 Military Children

Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Surfs up! Military children of wounded or fallen service members will be able to catch their first wave this summer, thanks to Freedom Is Not Free, a California-based troop-support group.

Former Track Stand-out Turned Soldier Wins Army Bodybuilding Competition

Thu, 07 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

From a high school and college track star to a Soldier, and now a competitive bodybuilder, Sgt. Erica Rinard has ventured into new experiences not many have attempted nor accomplished in their lives.

Former Governors Join North Carolina Heroes Board

Wed, 06 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Former North Carolina governors Jim Martin and Jim Hunt have been named as honorary co-chairs of the North Carolina Heroes Fund Statewide Advisory Board, joining other state residents and leaders in showing support for military service members and their families.

Paratroopers, Civilians Awarded for Iraq Accomplishments: XVIII Airborne Corps Gave 'mother of All P

Wed, 06 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After 15-months of dedication to the mission in Iraq, around 430 Soldiers and civilians from the XVIII Airborne Corps received awards for their service Tuesday evening at the Officers' Club at Fort Bragg, N.C., in front of their friends and families.

Fort Lewis Warrior Transition Battalion Hosts Paralympics Sports Camp

Mon, 04 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Wounded warriors will get a chance to compete in sports while working toward their rehabilitation this week when the Warrior Transition Battalion on Fort Lewis, Wash., hosts a Paralympics Military Regional Sports Camp.

Program Makes High-Cost Schooling Accessible to Troops, Vets

Fri, 01 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Service members and veterans who enroll in the new Post-9/11 GI Bill will be able to attend some of the country's most prestigious – and high-cost –universities, thanks to a new program that's gaining momentum in academic circles.

Army Wins Against Coalition Team in Softball Tournament

Fri, 01 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

To help pass the time in theater the Morale, Welfare and Recreation hosts events and tournaments for the service members. One such event includes base-wide softball competitions. In April the local MWR held a softball tournament which consisted of five teams Sudden Impact (Army), Aussies (Australians), Navy Customs, Defenders (Air Force), and Blasters (Australians).

Face of Defense: Former Car Salesman Drives Army Trucks

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Not long ago, Army Pfc. Paul Henry was a car salesman in Marion, Ill., a divorced father of two children who was looking for something different in his life. So he decided to enlist in the Army.

"Black Jack" Brigade Helps Soldiers Pursue Citizenship

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

"Serving your country is an honorable profession," said Maj. Robert Blackmon, the Staff Judge Advocate of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division. "But to serve a country without being a citizen of that country is really admirable."

After Seven Deployments, Seasoned Soldier Proud of His Contribution to Nation

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Today's Soldier in Focus is Sgt. 1st Class Trevino L. Copeland, a supply sergeant, assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. Copeland, a native of Lincoln, Neb., joined the Army in July 1990 and enlisted as an infantryman.

Students of Ann G. McGuinness School Let Soldiers Know They Care

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After a long stressful day of patrolling the streets of Sab al-Bour looking for weapons and explosive devices, weary Soldiers of B Troop, 2nd Squadron, 104th Cavalry Regiment, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team return to base anxious to fall into bed. But, as they enter their quarters, they pause for a look at the collage of greeting cards that hang around the door. The cards, a collection of well wishes from children at the Ann G. McGuinness School back in the States, seem to erase the events

Reenlistments Surge at Speicher

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Four Soldiers from the 1st Inland Cargo Transfer Co., 391st Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, reenlisted in the first week of April, bringing total reenlists for the small company to 16 for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, surpassing the goal by 145 percent.

Take Two and Call the 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battallion Troop Medical Clinic in the Morning

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As you walk into the 3rd Bde. Special Troops Bn. Troop Medical Clinic, you are greeted by smiling faces ready and waiting to assist you with all of your medical needs. They have desks, a waiting area complete with a couch and refreshments, and two patient rooms with beds and shelves stocked full of medical supplies.

Guard Families Participate in 2009 White House Easter Egg Roll

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

National Guard members from five states and their families participated in yesterday's 2009 Easter Egg Roll held on the South Lawn of the White House.

New 'eMagazine' Keeps Service Members, Families in the Know

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

All the support programs in the world won't do any good if no one knows about them, so the Defense Department's principal director for military community and family policy started the office's new "eMagazine."

Brothers in Arms

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Growing up together in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, Staff Sgt. Jeremy Moersch and Spc. Brandon Kosky played cops and robbers as boys, fighting the "bad guys" and putting them behind bars in an imaginary world.

Soldiers Run to Remember Fallen Hero: Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith Memorial Run

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

At daybreak on a warm desert morning in Baghdad, nearly 1,000 Soldiers joined together to remember one of their own in a moving tribute run.

Face of Defense: Soldier Returns After 15-Year Break to Be Close to Troops

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Some people just can't get the military out of their system – nor do they want to.

Forward Operating Base Kalsu Offers Soldiers Education Opportunities

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Going to school is not usually on a Soldier’s mind during a deployment. The Army Education Center here is looking to change that.

Blue Service Star Takes New Meaning Wounded Soldier Receives Quilt in Memory of WWII Vet

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Since World War I, the blue service star has served as a symbol to honor those Soldiers who are deployed away from their loved ones.

Rough Riders Become U.S. Citizens

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Four U.S. Soldiers became American citizens during a ceremony at al-Faw Palace on Camp Victory in Baghdad recently.

Sustainment Soldiers Enjoy Fun and Sun in Qatar

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from the 16th Sustainment Brigade found a way to unwind by taking advantage of the U.S. Central Command’s rest and recuperation pass program March 2.

A Leg to Stand On: Amputee Pilot Completes Third Deployment

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

What sets Maj. Alan Brown apart from other Airmen in the gym at Bagram Air Field's Camp Cunningham isn't his workout routine, it's his right leg.

Convoy Soldiers Get New Gym to Make Time for Fitness

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers of Bravo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 146th Field Artillery, Washington Army National Guard, under the 18th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion have a new company gym.

Lucky Dog Keeps Soldiers Safe, Identifies Improvised Explosive Devices

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

She takes a few steps forward and then glances over her shoulder. A few meters up the road she stops and lies down on the ground.

Sergeant Major of the Army Preston Talks on Army's Way Ahead, Soldiers' Concerns

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama’s recent announcement to end combat operations in Iraq by August 2010 may raise a few concerns in the minds of troops serving, including when they can expect to return home and the length of time between future deployments.

Competition Challenges Soldier to Strive With Newsletter

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Keeping in touch with family is important during a deployment. Family members want to know their Soldier is staying safe and accomplishing the mission. One Soldier here is keeping family members informed with a newsletter for loved-ones back home.

Sustainer Challenge Challenges Sustainers

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from across Iraq gathered March 18-19 to compete in the 3rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)’s Sustainer Challenge competition, a team-based event designed to test the limits of physical endurance, combat skills and team spirit.

Special Operations Troops Deliver Smiles to Bagram Schoolchildren

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Troops from the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Afghanistan delivered gifts to a primary school March 15 near Bagram Airfield. The troops dropped in to present the children with clothing, toys and school supplies.

Troop Support Group Helps Vets, Military Families Find Jobs

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Military veterans and spouses in the New Jersey area are getting help finding jobs from a troop support group.

The Baghdad Bad Boys Strike Their Last Chord

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For the past nine months, a group of musicians have gathered on Sunday mornings to fill the air with bluegrass music at the Green Beans coffee shop for anyone one to come and enjoy.

Soldiers Wives Create Quilts for Wounded

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Wives of paratroopers from the 4th Squadron, 73rd Calvary Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, meet once a month in a combined effort with a national foundation, Quilts of Valor, to make quilts for the wounded Soldiers from their unit.

Army Direct Ordering Sustains Deployed Soldiers

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In a combat zone, Soldier’s uniforms are subject to more than the normal wear and tear. Due to the nature of Soldier’s missions, uniforms may become torn, the soles of boots worn down and protective eyewear can break. To help Soldiers replace unserviceable uniforms, the Army has implemented a web-based program within the last four years specifically for Soldiers deployed to combat zones.

'Hugs From Home' Brightens Dagger Days

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Thanks to a project back home in the states, Multi-National Division-Baghdad Soldiers recently accepted a huge show of support and appreciation in the form of thousands of care packages.

Unsung Heroes

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The 110th Quartermaster Company holds the unique mission of command and control over the Iraqi Truck Company Yard in Baghdad, Iraq.

Top-ranked Enlisted Leader Praises Guard Members in Combat Zones

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The National Guard's non-commissioned officers should be proud of the leadership they provide both inside and outside the wire in the nation's combat zones, said the National Guard Bureau's senior enlisted leader here during a recent town hall meeting.

Airlifting the Wounded Warrior

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Recently five Airmen begin their day with a briefing. They meet inside a small building on the edge of the flightline. Wearing their tan flight suits, weapons are issued and checklists brought out.

Black Dragons Strong in Southern Iraq

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Within the base’s fitness center at any hour of the day, one will likely see a handful of the vibrant, red physical training T-shirts the Black Dragon troops are known for.

February Statistics Show Solid Recruiting, Retention Success

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Defense Department officials today announced across the board recruiting and retention successes in February, with every service meeting or exceeding its active-duty, reserve and National Guard goals.

Sustainer Teammates Receive Citizenship

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Two Soldiers -- Spc. Hugo Murguia and Cpl. Juan Villegas from Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 17th Field Artillery, 3rd Battalion, 133rd Field Artillery Regiment, 287th Sustainment Brigade -- became naturalized United States citizens during a ceremony at Al Faw Palace, Camp Victory, Iraq, on March 3.

Face of Defense: Amputee Soldier Completes Jumpmaster Course

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A roadside bomb in Afghanistan cost Army Sgt. 1st Class John "Mike" Fairfax his right leg, but it didn't take away his spirit.

419th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion in a Good Will Mission for a Local Iraqi Girl's School

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

With some foresight, the 1538th Transportation Company of the Indiana National Guard, one of the units in the 419th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade, collected and brought with them, school supplies, toys and clothes in hopes to participate in a humanitarian mission while on tour in Iraq supporting the War on Terror.

Man's Best Friend, a Soldier's 'battle Buddy'

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers trust their battle buddies to have their backs in any situation. Regardless of the danger, it is a bond of war; a closeness that is rarely verbal, just understood through a simple nod or pat on the back.

Troops Become Americans in Iraq

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

In the 13th naturalization ceremony conducted in Iraq, 251 Soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines from 65 different countries and bases across Iraq became American citizens in the rotunda of Al Faw Palace, March 3

'Christmas in May' Awaits Deployed Troops

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Troops serving overseas will get a little bit of "Christmas in May," thanks to a troop-support group that is collecting gifts and snacks to be mailed to them on Armed Forces Day, May 16.

Soldiers Keeping Up Their Education

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from F Company, 949th Brigade Support Battalion, while here fighting for our country, are also keeping up with their schooling.

Iron Brigade Soldiers Reduce Stress by Staying Active, Using Army Programs

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Deployment is never easy, especially a fifteen-month deployment where Soldiers face the possibility of missing the same holiday twice away from their loved ones.

Morale, Welfare and Recreation Gives Soldiers Desert Barbeque

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Camp Liberty’s East Life Support Area Morale Welfare and Recreation center hosted a barbecue cookout Feb. 22 at the East Mayor’s Cell for Soldiers to blend past experiences and spices, conversation and family recipes, and to mix secret barbecue sauce with everyday operations. But most of all, it was an opportunity for them to relax.

Soldiers Celebrate President's Day With 5K

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Nearly 200 runners gathered outside the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Base Complex at Contingency Operating Base Q-West for a five-kilometer fun run, Feb. 16.

Law Firm Donates Basketball Uniforms to Finance Soldiers

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from the 101st Financial Management Co., 16th Special Troops Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, have been in desperate need of new basketball uniform since the beginning of their deployment.

Women's History Month: Military Women Reflect on Service Achievements

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

In 1994, an eight year old girl from San Marcos, Texas stood up in class and said “I want to be a fighter pilot.”

The Other Working Dogs of Iraq

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Canis Familiaris, Fido, dog. Whatever you may call them, man’s best friend is undeniably as much a part of Americana as football, cheeseburgers and the Fourth of July. They are an irreplaceable part of many American families. They go with us on vacation, hunting trips, long days at the beach and short walks around the neighborhood. We take them almost everywhere we go, even to war.

Soldiers Join Together for Self-help Morale, Welfare and Recreation Project

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

An all-volunteer construction crew enhanced the living conditions at Forward Operating Base Lightning by constructing an Morale, Welfare and Recreation center made entirely of unwanted, recycled or unused material.

'Adopt a U.S. Soldier' Links Volunteers With Deployed Troops

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A Colorado-based group is connecting deployed troops with volunteers eager to "adopt" them.

Rear Detachment Committed to Family Cause

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

When the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade deploys to Iraq later this year, the job does not end for those remaining behind who must continue the day to day operations of the “Warriors” on home soil.

From Start to Finish: Vietnam Vets Serve in Iraq

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

It takes a dedicated Soldier to serve through several wars and continue to wear the uniform, Soldiers like Staff Sgt. Louis J. Swift and Chief Warrant Officer Steven M. Derry. Swift and Derry are Vietnam veterans who currently serve with the 3-142 Assault Helicopter Battalion, a National Guard unit out of Ronkonkama, N.Y.

Bruceville-Eddy Native Wins Soldier of the Year

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Sgt. Thomas A. Elfar was named Multi-National Division - Baghdad’s Combat Aviation Brigade Soldier of the Year. The Bruceville-Eddy, Texas, native, competed against more than 20 hand-selected Soldiers across the brigade of approximately 3,000 personnel in a series of boards.

Idaho Guard Supports Special Olympics

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

About 200 Soldiers and Airmen from the Idaho National Guard are on duty today to prepare for the 2009 Special Olympics Winter World Games being held, Feb. 7 to 13.

California Soldiers Loosen Up With Therapy Dog

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 185th Armor, California Army National Guard, pet and hug their stress away with a little help from “Sgt. 1st Class Boe.”

Soldier Finds Freedom in U.S., Fights for Freedom in Iraq

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A maintenance technician for 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment, currently deployed to Convoy Support Center Scania, found his freedom in the U.S. and now fights so that Iraqis may enjoy what he has come to cherish.

Dog Saves Handlers Life

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A military working dog saved his owners life while on a routine mission near Najaf, Iraq recently.

Service Support Organizations

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

There are many ways to support the military. Some choose to show their support by putting a magnet on the back of their car or flying a flag in the front yard. Others choose to support the Indiana National Guard through service support organizations.

A Celebration Of, for Indiana Troops

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A tribute for Indiana National Guard troops was held at Lucas Oil Stadium, Jan. 31.

Volunteer Earns Her Freedom Helping Others

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

“Service to others is the payment you make for your space here on earth,” said Mohammed Ali.

Twin Sisters Bridge Gap Between 4th Infantry, 1st Cavalry Divisions

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Like any other sibling rivalry, Brenda and Belinda might fight about anything – from hobbies, to clothes, and even answering the same question can send them into a fuss. But where their opinions differ, their appearance and shared work ethic make up for in similarities.

From Man's Best Friend to Service Member's Best Friend - K9s Help Accomplish Mission in Iraq

Sat, 24 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

When service members are deployed and conducting patrols, they rely on their battle buddies to keep them safe and offer them companionship. Some believe there is no better battle buddy than man’s best friend.

1st Brigade Combat Team Presents 'A Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A proclamation by the former President of the United States George W. Bush declared Jan. 19, 2009, a federal holiday to “recognize one of history’s most consequential advocates for equality and civil rights.”

4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment Completes Iraq Tour

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The 4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment relinquished command to 1st Battalion, 4th Attack Reconnaissance Bn. in a transfer of authority ceremony at Baghdad International Airport Jan. 20.

Indiana National Guard Transporters Thank Hometown Hoosier Children for Kindness

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Taking time out for Soldiers is just what Mrs. Henninger’s first grade class did. The 1538th Transportation Company, an Indiana National Guard unit from Elkhart, Ind., was the end stop for the letters of kindness from her class to the deployed transporters.

Army Career Counselors Offer Re-enlistment Options, Bonuses to Soldiers in Combat Zones

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

When considering re-enlistment , there are plenty of options and incentives for Soldiers to choose from, depending on their component and if they’re serving in a combat zone.

Feeding the Troops in Battle

Sun, 18 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

There are many career opportunities within the military no matter the branch of service. Every job and every person working in that position is just as important as the next.

Bush: Acted for U.S. 'best interests'

Sat, 17 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

President Bush told Americans in his final speech from the White House he had "always acted with the best interests of our country in mind" during his administration's tumultuous eight years.

Hero of Hudson River Crash Landing Got Start in Air Force

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The pilot who crash-landed a crippled airliner in New York's Hudson River this afternoon, saving 155 lives on board, is an Air Force Academy graduate who received his pilot training in the Air Force.

Fort Bragg's United Services Organization Opens New Recreation Center

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

It was more than 67 years ago the United Services Organization built the first government-funded USO building at Fort Bragg. Since then, through times of peace and war, the USO has provided the Fayetteville and Fort Bragg community with a variety of quality services through morale, welfare and recreation to our Soldiers and their families.

Guardsmen Form Lasting Friendship in Iraq

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Pfc. Christopher Rivera-Flores, from Torrance, Calif., and Pfc. Omar Vega-Flores, from San Diego, Calif., are not related, but they have become brothers.

New Year Ushered in 'new Beginnings' During Ironhorse Town Hall

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

With Christmas and New Years happily in their rear view mirror, home is now finally in sight for many Soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division.

Home Front to Front Line

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Sgt. 1st Class Larry Russell is a third generation firefighter and remembers developing this passion throughout his childhood days in San Angelo, Texas.

Operation Healing Angel Gears Up for New Year

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A troop-support organization is gearing up for the early part of the new year, collecting Valentine, Easter and St. Patrick Day cards and gifts for service members and the health professionals who take care of them.

4th Infantry Division Band Serves Music, Morale With Honor

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

There is a reason a Soldier’s chest will swell just a bit more as he or she listens to the national anthem in honor of our country or listens to taps in remembrance of a fallen comrade. These events are more powerful because of something they have in common: they have their own theme music.

Bush Praises Military for Keeping America Safe

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

President George W. Bush said this morning he's had no higher honor during his eight years as president than serving as commander in chief to the "brave patriots" of the U.S. military.

Unsung Heroes Bring Soldiers' Heroes to Iraq

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Many celebrities and entertainers visit deployed troops at Morale, Welfare and Recreation centers, on pre-erected stages and through various workplaces throughout Iraq. How is this possible? Who is responsible for their trip across the desert? For Multi-National Division - Center, Terry Buckley and Mitch Thompson are those people.

Wreaths Across America Honors Fallen Service Members

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

A Wreaths Across America wreath laying ceremony was held, Dec. 13, at the Alfred G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery to honor all veterans past, present and future.

Christmas Tree Programs Brighten Holidays for Military Families

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

A Christmas tree farm in Whitehouse, Ohio, is celebrating the holiday season by giving away 100 Christmas trees to military families.

It Took a War to Bless a Child

Sat, 13 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

“I guess the old Persian adage; ‘I wept because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet.’ is an appropriate summary of this humanitarian effort,” said 1st Lt. Paul Woodward, 1-244th Assault Helicopter Battalion chaplain of Enid, Okla.

Mail Team Keeps Holiday Season Morale High in Iraq

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

A team of certified mail handlers is helping to boost morale for deployed soldiers by ensuring they receive their holiday care packages from family and friends back home.

Guardsmen Bring Christmas to the North Dakota Veteran's Home

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, Airmen and Soldiers of the North Dakota National Guard will load vehicles full of presents and military volunteers to make their annual trip to the North Dakota Veteran’s Home in Lisbon, N.D., delivering presents and good cheer to retired military members and spouses.

Family Tree Bears Wealth of Christmas History

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

He carefully opens the package sent to him by his mother, saving the address label to add to the others that chronicle the history and many destinations the contents have travelled.

Retailer Brings Holiday Cheer to Fisher Houses

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

More than 50 local Wal-Mart associates donated their time and tinsel Dec. 4 to bring holiday cheer to servicemembers recovering from wounds at Fisher Houses at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here and Andrews Air Force Base, Md.

Operation Christmas Stocking Spreads Cheer to Deployed Troops

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

A little piece of Christmas has started to arrive in Iraq and Afghanistan for troops away from home during the holidays.

Combat Outpost Shocker Receives New Entertainment System

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Patrons of the Combat Outpost Shocker Morale, Welfare and Recreation Center have a new game system to take their minds off being deployed this holiday season.

Fair Park High School Honors Veterans

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Veterans young and old gathered in Fair Park High School’s gymnasium for a program to honor area veterans, Nov. 11, in Shreveport, La.

Medic Earns Three Purple Hearts During One Deployment to Iraq

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

If Army Staff Sgt. Matthew Sims was a cat, he’d have only six lives left after his yearlong deployment to Iraq with the 1st Armored Division’s Company B, 270th Armor Battalion, out of Fort Riley, Kan.

Soldier Serves for Love of Country

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers choose to serve their nation for various reasons. Some join for a guaranteed job, some to make a better life for themselves and some to earn money for college. Others however, serve for the mere fact that they love their nation.

National Resource Directory Helps Wounded Warriors

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

A Web-based network of support for wounded warriors, veterans and their families, as well as the families of the fallen, has sprung from a collaborative effort by the departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs.

University Donates Textbooks, English Materials to Iraqis

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

In a country with a desperate need for engineers, two 402nd Army Field Support Brigade contractors are bridging an Oregon university with Iraqi students and faculty thirsty for knowledge.

Small Patch of Grass Brings Touch of Home to Strikers

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

It was a Sunday and approximately 15 Soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, gathered on a small patch of grass at Forward Operating Base War Eagle – ready for battle.

Staying Power: Marine Returns to Help Others on Road to Recovery

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

When Marine Staff Sgt. Daniel Kachmar extends his right hand to greet combat wounded Marines, there is an instant rapport.

Strikers Dedicate New Dining Facility to Fallen Comrade

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The Soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, never forgot Maj. Mark Rosenberg, and in his memory, they commemorated the opening and dedication of their new dining facility in his name, Nov. 16.

TroopTube Gives Morale Boost to Deployed Servicemembers

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Overseas-deployed servicemembers can receive video “shout-outs” from home, as well as senior-leader messages, thanks to the new TroopTube online information service, according to military officials.

Wounded Troops Enjoy Dinner, Camaraderie at Local Dinners

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

As ghostlike Capitol Hill workers scurried through a cold, misty fog early yesterday evening, a nearby group of wounded warriors cosseted in a warm room broke bread and shared stories about far-away lands and future hopes.

Nothing Says Happy Veteran's Day Like a Hug From a Child

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from the 1st Cavalry Division’s, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment were honored by students and faculty of the Venable Village Elementary School, at a Veterans Day program performed by the entire third grade class, Nov. 7, at Fort Hood, Texas.

Face of Defense: Double Amputee Marine Wants to Stay in to Help Others

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Matthew Ryan Bradford was part of a patrol to clear an area near Haditha, Iraq, of roadside bombs with the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, on Jan. 18, 2007.

Medical Team Fits Child for Wheelchair

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The 926th Engineer Brigade’s medical and chaplain sections planned and organized a pediatric wheelchair adjustment, Oct. 28, 2008, for Ahmed Kadhem, a four-year-old boy and resident of Sadr City Sector 4.

Stout Field Military Warms Hands, Hearts

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Four students at the Stout Field Elementary School received a surprise Thursday.

Airmen, Soldiers Work Together to Save Lives at Joint Base Balad Hospital

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Air Force and Army medics here work as an integrated team to treat post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries, two of the most common injuries to affect wounded warriors.

1st Medical Brigade Comes Together for Halloween Retreat

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The 1st Medical Brigade’s headquarters company held a Halloween Retreat at Tyson’s Corners Retreat Center in Lampasas Oct. 31.

Retailer Helps to Keep Care Package Drive on Target

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

With mailing deadlines rapidly approaching, a “targeted” effort at the Van Nuys National Guard Armory on Nov. 1 and 2 ensured that 70,000 servicemembers would receive goodies from California this holiday season.

Face of Defense: Company Commander Exemplifies Warrior Ethos

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

In most ways, Army Capt. Alex Houston is like any other Army commander.

Group Hopes to Create Caregivers Education Program

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When injured servicemembers return home after spending time in a hospital or rehabilitation center, family members often take on the role of caregiver.

United Service Organization Offers Entertainment, Relief of Deployment Woes

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The United Service Organization has been supporting U.S. forces for more than 67 years. Adapting to the needs of the troops, the USO has continually invented and reinvented programs to help troops.

America Supports You: Care Package Site Provides Ideas

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Whether you are a young soldier leaving boot camp for a tour in Germany or a seasoned military police officer working in Iraq, receiving a care package from home can be a huge pick-me-up. A Web site launched in September provides many ideas to families and friends wanting to send care packages to love ones stationed abroad.

Chef Leaves Disney to Cook for Troops

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Two truths define Yedi Yedwabnick – he loves his country and he loves to cook.

Ex-Navy Airman Gives Back to Deployed Service Members

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Have you ever watched the news and seen a report that the price of a stamp was going up three cents and thought, dang it? I have too, but what if those three cents added up to more than $2,800 in extra postage each year? It would mean that person paid more than $8,000 each month for postage before the increase in price. Why would anyone spend more than $8,000 each month in postage? To ship care packages to deployed service members.

Putting Minds at Ease

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Navy Lt. Chris Owston, a 35-year-old medical officer from Bedford, Pa., with Task Force 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, conducted a medical assessment of a group of kindergarteners in Sattack, Iraq, Oct. 13, 2008.

Iraqi, Coalition Soldiers Answer Young Girl's Prayers

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

It was a routine patrol, done dozens of times before by Iraqi and coalition forces. But this day, fate would bring the soldiers to the house of Jasmine, an eight-month old girl in desperate need of an operation to remove a tumor protruding from her abdomen.

Creative Arts Festival Gives Wounded Warriors Therapeutic Outlet

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Veterans of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan are among more than 120 disabled veterans from across the country attending the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival this week in Riverside, Calif.

Cooking Up a Storm: Soldiers Handle Deployment in the Kitchen

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

At the Coalition Café on Camp Victory, many people are working to help feed the troops and civilians that visit each day.

Soldiers Distribute Hope to Husayniyah Children

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Soldiers and Iraqi army soldiers with the 33rd Brigade distributed soccer balls, toys and other humanitarian items to children in Husayniyah, Karbala province, Oct. 15, 2008.

America Supports You: Group Prepares 70,000 Care Packages for Troops

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Though Halloween still is about two weeks away, preparations have begun to make sure Operation Gratitude’s 6th Annual Holiday Drive ships 70,000 care packages to troops during the upcoming holiday season.

Operation Menke - Tribute to American Hero

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Spc. Jonathan "Jon" Menke made the ultimate sacrifice for his country, Aug. 4, 2008.

Commentary: Commando Troops Build Friendship With Iraqi People

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

At times, the cultural differences between Iraqi people and American Soldiers seem insurmountable, but the simple truths of life are unchanging regardless of backdrop.

America Supports You: Group Helps Deployed Troops Enjoy Movies

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Microwavable popcorn, theater-style candy, sweetened powdered drink mix, a letter of support and a DVD are what deployed troops find when they open a "movie box" from Operation: Take a Soldier to the Movies.

Pentagon Ceremony Recognizes Disabled Employees' Contributions

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England praised the work and contributions provided by disabled Defense Department contract employees at a Pentagon award ceremony today.

School Is in Session in Iron Caisson Computer Lab

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Ten computers are giving 132 Soldiers the opportunity to pursue college degrees while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Soldiers Relax, Enjoy Breaks From Missions in Iraq

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Recently family and friends have asked, “What do the Soldiers deployed to Iraq do in their spare time? Is there any downtime? What should we send in care packages?” Several Soldiers serving with Multi-National Division – Baghdad give us a glimpse into their downtime, and answer those questions.

Dogs Do Great Things for Mission, Morale

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Members of the 43rd Medical Detachment, based out of Fort Hood, Texas, gave a blood transfusion to a military working dog on Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Sept. 3, 2008

Guardsman's Wife Providing Better 'Sleep for Soldiers'

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Members of the armed forces often receive support from home, however, the wife of a Virginia National Guard Soldier has taken it several steps further.

Service Members Honor U.S. Air Force Birthday in Afghanistan

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Service members from the Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan honored the 61st anniversary of the U.S. Air Force, Sept. 18, 2008, during a ceremony at Camp Eggers.

Culture of Troop Support Earns Top Award for Texas Capital

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Defense Department is recognizing the city of Austin, Texas, as being one of the most supportive employers of reserve-component service members in the nation.

Kalsu Post Office Delivers

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When Soldiers are deployed, they rely on the little things in life to get them through tough days. One of the biggest morale boosters is receiving mail.

America Supports You: Horses Help Veterans Earn Their Spurs

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Based on the idea that with their grace, elegance and unconditional acceptance, horses may be just what many servicemembers and veterans need, a former Marine has formed an organization to introduce them to what he calls “the power of partnership with horses.”

Father's Inspiration Becomes Cornerstone for Son's Success

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

“Well boys, should we fix the table or make skis out of it?” he asked, glancing from the broken wooden table to his two young sons. It was the question his father asked one afternoon to make light of the situation. He chose to teach a lesson to his children instead of reprimanding them, instilling in them a sense of what is most important in life – a free moment of joy and laughter.<

More Than 190 Troops Earn U.S. Citizenship in Iraq

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

American citizenship became a reality for 192 U.S. servicemembers from 54 different countries during a ceremony yesterday at Al Faw Palace on Camp Victory here.

Oshkosh Corp. Earns Top Employer Support Award

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Oshkosh Corp. is slated to receive the Defense Department’s top award next month for supporting its employees who volunteer to serve in the National Guard and reserves.

America Supports You: Runners Complete Memorial to Fallen Heroes

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

It started as a leap of faith, but more than 10 million steps later, a 10-man relay team arrived here, at what the memorial run’s organizer called the most sacred place in America.

Basketball Comes to FOB Callahan

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

There is now one more reason to love living at Forward Operating Base Callahan – basketball. While everyone laughed at the idea of putting up a hoop at this outpost in northern Baghdad, it hasn’t stopped throngs of Soldiers from playing and watching since the hour it was installed.

America Supports You: Group Helps Political Parties Build Common Ground

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

It took a Massachusetts troop-support group to get the country’s two major political parties to find a sliver of common ground, literally, during this election year.

America Supports You: Volunteers Unite to Serve Hospitalized Veterans

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

For more than 60 years, a group of California-based volunteers has worked to ensure that no hospitalized veteran anywhere in the country making a worthwhile request gets “no” for an answer.

America Supports You: Soldiers in Iraq Unite With Families Through Reading

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

As deployments have remained consistent for soldiers and family members of the 4th Infantry Division, separation has been commonplace.

Company Focuses on Families to Support Military Employees

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Kim Robinson knows that when military members deploy, they face a lot of stress overseas on top of worrying about their families at home. To help alleviate that stress, Robinson has committed to do what he can to ease the burden on the families of his employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

Brothers Stick Together Through All

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

It’s common for Marines to refer to each other as brothers-in-arms, but the esprit de corps might just be stronger between two Marines who are actually full-blooded brothers serving in the same unit.

Native American Tribe Supports Troops, Families

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

During World War I, the Choctaw Nation began a long tradition of service to the country when a group of Choctaws volunteered as “code talkers,” sending messages for the military in a code derived from their own language to confuse German spies.

Georgia Man Starts Massive Letter-Writing Campaign for Troops

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The idea of getting people involved in a letter-writing campaign to reach all servicemembers currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan -- about 178,000 -- may seem a little far-fetched for the average person, but Cody Anderson is by no means “average.”

Airport 'grandmas' Help MND-B Soldiers 'kiss' Their EML Goodbye

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The trouble with any vacation is that for all the build up, for all the anticipation, for all the excitement, it is over almost as soon as it begins.

Ramadi Citizens Gather for Soccer Field Reopening

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Mustafa, a 14-year-old Iraqi boy, couldn’t stand still during a recent soccer tournament at the grand reopening of the 17th Street Soccer field, July 24, 2008.

Warrior Soldiers Rock Out in Iraq

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The sound of rock music hangs in the dry, dusty air at Camp Taji, northwest of Baghdad.

Marine's Arabic Skills Benefit Operation

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A Marine started several years ago to learn Arabic, a language spoken throughout the Middle East. Recognizing the value of the talent, he decided to put it to use helping his country.

America Supports You: Web Site Gives Public Chance to Thank Troops

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A new Web site is giving the American public a nonpartisan opportunity to join entertainers, professional athletes and politicians in expressing gratitude to servicemembers defending the nation.

Army Olympians Prepare for Beijing

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Nine U.S. Army soldiers will take aim at Olympic gold in Beijing.

Vets Wrap Up Wheelchair Games With Inspiration, Life Lessons

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Nearly 500 disabled veterans closed the 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games here last night celebrating new friendships made, new pride in what they’ve accomplished, and confidence in their abilities.

Older Vets Offer Encouragement, Example for Newly Wounded Troops

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Recently wounded combat troops are here getting advice and encouragement from those who understand best what they’re up against: other disabled veterans who have learned to live with their disabilities.

Sixty Years After Integration, Opportunities Abound for Minority Soldiers

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

By the time the Army was officially desegregated on July 26, 1948, Joe Murchison already was a proud member of the 82nd Airborne Division.

America Supports You: Group Helps Wounded Vets Secure Adaptive Housing

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Wounded veterans have a new source to turn to when looking for housing to meet their individual challenges after the expansion of a successful pilot program in Texas.

Integration Brought Strength, Credibility to Military, Official Says

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Today’s military is stronger and has more credibility among the American people in large part due to a presidential decision 60 years ago to integrate the force, the defense undersecretary for personnel and readiness said.

Najaf Airport Provides Boost to Iraq's Southern Provinces

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki waved to cheering crowds July 20 as he stepped off the first plane landing at Najaf International Airport.

Electronic Library Kiosk Bound for Iraq

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Camp Victory in Iraq is nearly 2,000 miles from the nearest Army library in Europe. But troops deployed at the sprawling base near Baghdad International Airport soon will have access to a broad spectrum of library resources through an e-Branch kiosk.

Ky. Guardsmen Deliver Donated Toys to Afghan Children

Sat, 19 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Charlie Company, 201st Engineer Battalion, Kentucky National Guard, showed skill in multi-tasking by reaching out to the Afghan people on a personal level while ensuring routes in Khowst province were safe from improvised explosive device threats, July 13.

America Supports You: Group Makes Job Hunt Easier for Disabled Vets

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The hunt for a fulfilling job can be frustrating, but disabled veterans have a new online tool available to help them tackle that task.

Mail Bridges Distance Between Deployed Soldiers, Families

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When Patton’s tanks rolled across North African desert sands, letters of encouragement, love and support from family back home connected 1st Armored Division soldiers to loved ones left behind.

Face of Defense: Commo Specialist 'Lives Dream' on Iraq Deployment

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Army Sgt. Jason Ruckman had a desire to be part of something that would make a difference. Six years ago, he joined the Army to whet his appetite for adventure, and he has never looked back.

Latest Recruiting Numbers Underscore Strength of All-Volunteer Force

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Defense officials today pointed to the 13th consecutive month of recruiting success as a sign that the all-volunteer force, now 35 years old, remains solid.

Face of Defense: Paralegal Succeeds in Army

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Army Spc. Matthew Duras decided to join the Army because he wanted to serve his country. Since becoming a soldier, he balances helping his fellow soldiers and reaching out to the community.

America Supports You: Organizations Join to Help Veterans, Families

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

AMVETS, one of the nation’s leading veterans service organizations, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness signed a memorandum of understanding last week at the alliance’s Virginia headquarters in Arlington.

Petraeus Re-enlists 1,215 U.S. Troops July 4 in Iraq

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Service members from all over Iraq gathered here today in the Al Faw Palace rotunda on Camp Victory, to re-enlist and celebrate America's Independence Day.

America Supports You: PGA Tour Hosts Wounded Warriors at Barbecue

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Wounded warriors and the PGA tour kicked off their Independence Day celebration a couple of days early with food and festivities yesterday at Mologne House, on the Walter Reed Army Medical Center campus here. The event was sponsored by the PGA’s “Birdies for the Brave” program, which falls under PGA Tour Charity Inc. and is the tour’s primary program for supporting military members and their families.

America Supports You: Hunting Dog Trained for Wounded Soldier

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Face of Defense: Soldier's Service Rooted in Patriotism

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Violence in Iraq Drops to Four-Year Low

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Violence in Iraq dropped in May to its lowest level in four years, according to a Defense Department report released to Congress.

America Supports You: 'Angels' Deliver Music to Wounded Troops

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

America Supports You: Group Offers Free Mental Health Counseling

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Troops, Families Rack Up College Credits During Deployment

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Flag Day: Four Personal Perspectives

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – The United States observes National Flag Day, an annual tribute to the American flag, the ideals it stands for and the sacrifices made to preserve them.

America Supports You: Group Takes Team Approach to Troop Support

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

America Supports You: Historical Group Continues Serving U.S. Troops

Tue, 20 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Wounded U.S. Soldiers, Marines Participate in Ice Hockey Clinic

Tue, 20 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Center Creates 'Little Miracles' in Treating Combat Stress

Mon, 12 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

America Supports You: Chrysler Give Troops 'Touch of Home'

Mon, 12 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Community, Soldiers Build for Locals

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Holiday Spirit Arrives Early for Some

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Most people don't start thinking about Christmas until late in the year. However, for hundreds of troops at Camp Victory, a dose of holiday spirit will come several months early thanks to the generosity of people and organizations in the United States.

Top Marine 'Heartily Encouraged' by Progress in Anbar Province

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – The Marine Corps’ top officer said yesterday he is “heartily encouraged” by the progress Iraqi and coalition forces are making in Iraq’s Anbar province.

Tragedy to Triumph- Shoes for the Children of Naray Tuy

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

On Aug. 25, Captain John Hallett III, 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, was killed in an IED attack in the Arghandab District of the Kandahar province.

Soldiers Help Afghan Children, One Backpack at a Time

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In a country where fewer than 30 percent of people are considered literate, U.S. forces are working to help in rebuilding Afghanistan's education system, which has been devastated from 30 years of war, anti-education politics and an unstable government.

Preparing Afghan Pupils With Paper, Pencils

Sat, 10 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In a country where education was once outlawed for many children by the Taliban, U.S. forces work to help rebuild Afghanistan's education system that has been devastated from 25 years of war and an unstable government.

U.S. Donations Help Afghan Children, Widows

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

More than 500 widows, orphans and disabled people from the Asadabad district of northeastern Afghanistan's Konar province here received much-needed supplies from the United States.

New Afghan Roads Promote Peace, Prosperity

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

New roads and bridges in Afghanistan's Kunar province are going a long way to help both residents and troops in the northeast border area, U.S. military and civilian engineers say.

MPs Help Afghan Police Build Community Relationships

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The new Afghan government is forming a more reliable and well established police force to serve the Afghan people, with the assistance of coalition forces.

Programs Provide Food, Clean Water to Afghans

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The international community has introduced programs to combat malnourishment and bacteria and parasites in the water here in an effort to improve the quality of life for local residents, particularly children.

Battle PT Keeps Soldiers Battle Ready

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As dawn began to break on the horizon, more than a dozen support and personnel Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment found themselves out from their desks and in full "battle rattle," on a dirt track at Forward Operating Base Ramrod, Sept. 4.

Operation Care's Effort to Help

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Many service members deployed in Afghanistan and many of the Afghan people are at extremely remote places throughout the country that do not have basic accommodations.

Obama Congratulates Afghans on Election

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama on Aug. 21 praised the courage of the Afghan people for participating in the Aug. 20 national election despite threats by the Taliban to disrupt the process.

Reconstruction Team Helps Develop Afghanistan's Future

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The provincial reconstruction team here is working to build a better future for Afghans.

Deployed Defenders' Dog Days

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

This deployment is for the dogs. German shepherds, to be exact.

Operation Aims to Secure Southern Afghanistan for Elections

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Hours into the new Operation Eastern Resolve II in Afghanistan's Helmand province, defense officials report that U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers are confronting "some resistance" as they work to secure the area for the Aug. 20 elections.

Next Generation CROWS II Increases Soldiers Safety

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The next generation of common remotely operated weapons station offers an updated version with more options to potentially protect service members and defeat insurgents across Afghanistan.

Making Future Efforts Grow

Sun, 02 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Before their deployment to Afghanistan, troops with the Agribusiness Development Team from Frankfort, Ky., are undergoing some very non-traditional training to fulfill their mission of helping the Afghan people learn better agricultural techniques that will benefit their economy. Growing grapes at a local vineyard and learning food preservation techniques were among the few skills that the team picked up.

Center Gives Troops Tools to Combat Stress While Deployed

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

An innovative restoration program in Afghanistan is giving troops the tools they need to "stay in the fight" by helping them overcome the stresses and challenges of being deployed, the director of the Freedom Restoration Center at Bagram Airfield there said.

Lt. Gen. Rodriguez Arrives to Take U.S. Forces-Afghanistan Deputy Commander Post

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Lt. Gen. David M. Rodriguez arrived in Afghanistan yesterday to assume his role as deputy commander, U.S. Forces-Afghanistan. This marks his second time to serve in this country. He was the commanding general, 82d Airborne Division/commanding general, Combined Joint Task Force 76, out of Bagram Air Field, from February 2007 to April 2008.

On the Ground: U.S. Forces Aid Afghan Counterparts

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. forces offered their support to Afghan forces June 18 in two separate missions: one aimed at boosting military skills and the other at providing aid to school children.

U.S. Forces - Afghanistan Commander, Team Honor Those Who Came Before, Thank Those Who Serve Today

Mon, 25 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

More than 250 members of U.S. Forces - Afghanistan donned the physical training gear of their respective services and gathered to start Memorial Day 2009 with a brisk two-mile formation run around New Kabul Compound. The run was followed by a host of activities including a home-style barbecue cookout for lunch.

Rural Village Sees Brighter Future With New School

Fri, 15 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nangarhar provincial reconstruction team joined provincial government officials and the people of a rural village in Dara-Noor District to celebrate the completion of a boys and girls school, May 12.

Service Members Enjoy Simple Pleasures in Southern Afghanistan

Mon, 11 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Sometimes it's the simple pleasures in life that can make a difference when deployed.

Gates Assures 10th Mountain Soldiers of Continued Support

Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

During his last stop on a whirlwind two-day visit through Afghanistan, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates today brought encouragement and assurance of support to 10th Mountain Division soldiers who have been deployed here since January.

Soldier Does His Part in War on Terror

Tue, 05 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Soldiers who man Combat Outpost Lowell near the Pakistan border see combat action almost daily.

Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan Troops Give Afghan Baby a Second Chance at

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Members of the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan conducted an unusual mission handover on Monday. Rather than discussing troop disposition and battle status, the soldiers were passing along information about bottle feedings and sleeping schedules.

1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Helps Community Through Nawabad Road Project

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, under the direction of 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, has arrived in northeastern Afghanistan and hit the ground running with a road project in Nawabad Village.

Winterization Kits Distributed to Help Afghans Survive Winter

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Agency for International Development through the assistance of the local governance and community development project recently distributed more than 1,000 winterization kits in Konar province.

Coalition Troops Seamlessly Provide Support in Afghanistan

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, Task Force Spartan, recently took over command in Logar, Feb. 5, and Wardak, Feb. 7, within Regional Command-East.

Clinic Gives 'Hope' to Afghan Village

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Mina Wali, an Afghan-American woman who has lived in the United States for 28 years, returned to Afghanistan four years ago to help bring a brighter future to the people.

Morale, Welfare and Recreation Upgrade Keeps Soldiers Connected in Afghanistan

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Forward Operating Base Blessing in north-eastern Afghanistan are updating their Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities to help Soldiers stay connected with their family and friends back home.

Soldiers in Paktya Province Treat Severely Burned Infant

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

A joint effort between Soldiers with the Afghan national police mentor team out of Forward Operating Base Wilderness and the FOB Salerno Combat Support Hospital saved the life of a 9-month-old Afghan girl from Paktya province.

Deployment Offers Unique Opportunities

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

For an intelligence officer with a passion for Middle Eastern culture, being deployed as part of a provincial reconstruction team is the experience of a lifetime.

U.S. Air Force Physician Assistant Makes Difference in Afghan Lives

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

What began last summer as a short-notice tasking to Afghanistan has turned into the opportunity of a lifetime for an Air Force physician assistant.

Astronauts Visit Afghanistan Marines

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Astronauts with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration visited deployed service members, Jan. 31, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

10th Mountain Division Leads New Deployments to Afghanistan

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team is taking up positions in eastern Afghanistan that until now have had little coalition presence.

Afghan School Children Receive Clothing and Supplies in Bagram

Sat, 24 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan distributed more than 300 backpacks filled with clothes, shoes, school supplies and hygiene items to children at the Gulam Ali boys and girls high school in Bagram, Afghanistan, Thursday.

Leaders Work to Improve Security in Western Afghanistan

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

U.S. and Afghan officials met to discuss the status of security in the area and future security initiatives, Jan. 21, at the Regional Command West headquarters in western Afghanistan's Camp Arena.

International Security Assistance Force Hospital Aids Children Injured by Insurgent Attacks

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

International Security Assistance Force doctors working at the ROLE 3 hospital at ISAF Regional Command South treated and released four children injured in separate insurgent attacks earlier this month. Meantime, a 12-year-old child remains at ROLE 3 while ISAF, working in conjunction with the International Committee of the Red Cross, works to locate the parents.

Team Holds Weekly Shoe Drive for Afghan Children

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Every Friday, 60 to 70 Afghan children get shoes and socks at Forward Operating Base Kala Gush through the efforts of the provincial reconstruction team in Afghanistan's Nurestan province.

Coalition, Afghan Forces Give Gift of Medical Care

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Hundreds of people in Afghanistan's Zabul province received the gifts of medical care and humanitarian assistance earlier this month.

Project Advances Women's Progress in Afghanistan

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

More than two years of work on the part of a cultural leader in Afghanistan’s Panjshir province is coming to fruition with the completion of a chicken coop.

Duke Brigade Leading Charge to Charity

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The Soldiers of 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, are donating some of their pay to help others and they are breaking records doing it.

School Supplies Light Up Afghan Students' Faces

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Zabul Provincial Reconstruction team recently distributed school supplies to young Afghan school children eager to learn.

School Supplies Light Up Afghan Student's Eyes

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

"Mister, mister pen. I need pen," echoes repeatedly from the mouths of young Afghan boys and girls eagerly reaching out their hands whenever they see American service members.

Army Intel Officer Builds Bridges in Afghanistan

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Every Afghan soldier on a base in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, wants to shoot at Army Capt. Nathan Iglesias.

U.S. Support Brings Growth to Kabul School

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Afghan children are benefiting and thriving thanks to sustained efforts by a U.S. task force and a program that is helping to expand and improve their schools.

New York National Guard Unit Finances New Classrooms

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Afghan children here are benefiting and thriving thanks to sustained efforts by New York Army National Guard Soldiers and a program that is helping to expand and improve their schools.

Medical Assistance Brings Relief to Villagers in Arghandab

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The rooms of an abandoned school once used to help children learn were recently used to help Afghans heal.

A Big Guy With an Even Bigger Heart

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When the Nangarhar Provincial Reconstruction Team in northeastern Afghanistan rolls out the gate to win hearts and minds in their province they are sometimes faced with challenges.

Bush Salutes U.S. Mission, Servicemembers in Afghanistan

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

President Bush today cited the “incredible” progress that has been achieved in Afghanistan after he’d been briefed on the situation by U.S. Army Gen. David D. McKiernan, NATO’s top commander there.

Soldiers Give the Gift of Blood in Afghanistan

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers from the 440th Blood Supply Detachment held a blood-screening, Sept. 25, 2008, in the Combined Joint Task Force - 101 Joint Operations Center at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, drawing almost double the donors as during an average day.

Troops at Camp Eggers Remember 9/11

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

More than 300 soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and civilians gathered today at Camp Eggers here to remember the thousands of victims who lost their lives during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks against America.

2-2 Infantry Aims to Improve Southern Afghanistan

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Villagers young and old, stood alongside the streets of Afghanistan, to watch as Soldiers of 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, made their way down the rock-strewn path, toward the Maywand District center, to attend a meeting with the village elders, Aug. 27, 2008.

Soldiers Deliver School Supplies to Afghan Villages

Sat, 06 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Task Force Gladiator, together with the Afghan National Police and a contracted construction and supply company, delivered 75 desks, 10 chalk boards and 150 sets of school supplies to the villages of Jurghati, Hasanzi and Shawo Katay in the Kohi Sofi district of Afghanistan’s Parwan province Aug. 26.

Bagram School Receives Fresh Renovations for New Semester

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

For the children of Bagram Village Girl’s High School, August 19, 2008, was the start of a new semester. Students filtered through the gate the same as any other school day, but were surprised to see their school had changed since the end of the last semester.

6-4 Medics Helping Locals

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

In the rural mountainous province of Nuristan acute or primary medical care has been nearly nonexistent for the local population in the past. Local Afghans have long been without reasonable means to cure and prevent disease, treat wounds or receive medications.

Coalition Helps Afghan Women Survive

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Service members with Task Force Med, with help from UunHee Lee, a nurse and midwife with the Korean Hospital, taught the first all-female International Medical Mentorship and Training Program recently.

Team Joins Divided Afghan Districts With Bridges

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Konar River runs for 150 kilometers and serves as a natural border between eastern Afghanistan and northwestern Pakistan. Although the villages along the eastern and western banks of the river are part of Konar, the river reinforces cultural and political alliances between Afghans on the eastern shore and tribesmen across the border in Pakistan. The people on the eastern side have had very little connection to the provincial government.

Team Supports Reconstruction of Afghan Health System

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Like most of Afghanistan's provinces, Konar has historically been unable to meet the medical needs of its 381,000 residents. But the Konar Provincial Reconstruction Team is working to meet those needs.

Nations 'band' Together in Afghanistan

Sat, 19 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The 101st Airborne Division and Afghan national army bands met the week of July 13 for a four-day training event.

Afghan Water Project to Help Economy, Quality of Life

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Some areas of Afghanistan’s Parwan province have been without water for years, while other areas are nearly flooded. A June 23 meeting brought together a Parwan Provincial Council member, a U.S. military civil affairs leader and a United Nations Habitat District manager to discuss plans to improve water distribution.

Teams Bring Security, Development to Afghan Province

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

As the security situation becomes more stable in five of this Afghan province’s southern districts, coalition civil affairs teams are helping improve governance and infrastructure.

Soldiers in Afghanistan Foster New Relationships

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Airmen Help Heal the Wounded With Food, Smiles in Afghanistan

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

For many people, food can be a comfort. The staff at the nutritional medicine flight at the Craig Joint Theater Hospital on Bagram Air Field in Afghanistan believes it can also be healing.

Soldiers Find Faith in Iraq

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The water looks calm and clear. A hand wraps around the metal railing of the step ladder. A foot dips down to test the temperature before committing to full emersion. A smiling face awaits the person preparing to enter the pool of water.

From Tanker to Chaplain

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers stomp their boots on the marble floor, raise their voices and make some noise.

Chaplain Assistants Fill a Time Honored Role in Afghanistan

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The role of the U. S. Army chaplain assistant can be traced back to the American Civil War. Officially, the military occupational specialty now identified as 56M began in 1909 when the Chief of Staff of the Army authorized that each chaplain have one enlisted Soldier assigned to him as an aid. One hundred years later, chaplain assistants still fill a crucial need by supporting their assigned chaplain in a broad range of areas, from secretarial work to physical protection.

Army Reserve Chaplain Ministers to Soldiers, Prisoners

Sat, 10 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Remote Forward Operating Base Baylough lies nestled beneath the mountains. During an evening in late May, the Soldiers attending a small service held by a visiting chaplain heard an explosion and felt the small, recreational building shaking. Believing they were under attack, the troops ran out of the service, wielding their weapons and ready to fight.

Chaplain Provides Guidance, Friendship in Time of Need

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

"As a civilian pastor I can't go to your office to check up on you, but as an Army chaplain, everywhere you go, that's where I am," said Maj. Michael J. King, chaplain, 17th Fires Brigade, from Vine Grove, Ky.

Family Life Chaplains Bridge Gap

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A famous quote, from English poet John Donne, says, "No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of a continent, a part of a main."

Chaplain Veers From Straight, Narrow Care

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

What do K-9 training, pouring cement and changing high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle brakes have in common here?

Chaplain Townsend Shows a True Spirit for Volunteering

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

There are many volunteers and caring individuals aboard the air station who bring smiles to the faces of many people. Navy Lt. Adrienne Townsend, the Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron chaplain, is one of those people.

Deployed Chaplains Minister to 'both Sides of the World'

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For many chaplains, providing spiritual and mental support for Soldiers is a calling.

'Proactive' ministry goal of Naval Academy chaplain

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As Lt. Cmdr. Scott Callaham reflects on the opportunities God has given him as a North American Mission Board-endorsed chaplain, one that stands out is when he baptized men by immersion for the first time in the 101-year history of the U.S. Naval Academy Chapel.

Improving Our Foxhole: Chaplain Program Tent Under Construction

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Construction is nearly complete on the chaplain's program tent to provide service members a comfortable environment for small-group worship services and other chaplain sponsored events on Contingency Operating Base Basra.

U.S. troops 'best of this generation,' top chaplain says

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Gen. Douglas Carver, chief of chaplains for the U.S. Army, thanked Southern Baptists for the 1,300 SBC military chaplains who minister to some 3 million American troops in service around the world.

Protecting Freedom and Faith

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The U.S. military vows to protect and uphold the constitution's freedoms and rights, including religion, of individuals at home and abroad.

Active, Reserve Chaplains Play Critical Role

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Active and reserve Army chaplains are playing a critical and strategic role in Iraq, a chaplain serving with Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq said this week.

Chaplains Train for Deployment

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As the Army's role in Iraq is changing, the importance of peaceful communication and liaison with the Iraqi people is paramount. But as long as there is conflict in Iraq, Soldiers must still train for combat. A special exercise at Fort Polk's Joint Readiness Training Center is teaching Soldiers to strike that careful balance.

Retired Chaplain Fills Soldiers' Cups With Hope, Strength and Prayer

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Attendees at the second annual Golden Coyote Prayer Breakfast filled their breakfast cups with hope and strength at the Camp Rapid Chapel on June 8.

Chaplain gives comfort, conveys hope amid tragedy

Fri, 22 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

It wasn't by chance that Chaplain (Capt.) Kent Coffey arrived at the Combat Stress Center on Camp Liberty in Baghdad, Iraq, just moments after a U.S. soldier opened fire, killing five soldiers and wounding three others May 11.

Face of Defense: Chaplains Reinforce More Than Faith

Tue, 19 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Reinforcements are something every unit loves to have - more soldiers help to win the fight and save lives at the same time.

Chaplains' Conference Connects With Command

Fri, 01 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) command chaplain hosted a conference with the group's subordinate Religious Ministry Teams aboard Camp Al Taqaddum, Iraq, April 17-18.

Chaplains' Conference Connects With Command

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) command chaplain hosted a conference with the group's subordinate Religious Ministry Teams aboard Camp Al Taqaddum, Iraq, April 17-18.

Care of the Warrior Spirit

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Bible states "Iron sharpens Iron" and in a war zone it rings true. However, that iron can cut and the Chaplain Corps and their assistants are often the ones who heal those wounds.

JOURNEY TO IRAQ: Christ's story still told in ancient land

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Four weeks ago, I boarded a plane for a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the land of desert sheikhs, Aladdin's lamp and Ali Baba. A land where the desert sands hold the history of its ancient peoples. A land so ancient it is considered the cradle of civilization. The birthplace of Abraham. The land where Nebuchadnezzar held Israel captive. I was headed to Iraq. My mission: to embed with Southern Baptist chaplains serving in the U.S. military.

JOURNEY TO IRAQ: A Soldier's baptism

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

There's strong and then there's Army strong. Nowhere is that more evident than on the front lines of war. My experience embedding with the chaplains of the XVIII Airborne Corps solidified my belief that we have the best of the best serving overseas.

April 8 named day of prayer for military

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Wednesday, April 8 has been proclaimed as a day of prayer and fasting for the U.S. Army's 200,000 deployed soldiers and their families by the Army's chief of chaplains.

Chaplain Assistant Inspires Soldiers

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A usually, quiet and timid chaplain assistant answered the call to duty for the 332nd Medical Brigade and delivered powerful words of inspiration as he filled in for the Brigade chaplain on March 22 at the William F. Lyell Army Reserve Center.

National Guard Chief Chaplain Visits New York

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Army National Guard's top chaplain, Brig. Gen Bryan Hult, visited New York National Guard headquarters on March 28 to meet with Lt. Col. Eric Olsen, New York National Guard state chaplain.

West Point Sends Priest to Deploy With Long Knives

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., sent one of its own, a Catholic priest, to the front lines to minister to the border-watching Long Knife Brigade.

3-8 CAV Battalion Update

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As we wrap up our third month in country, we have officially passed the first quarter mark of the deployment. One of my job as the battalion chaplain is to assess morale throughout the unit and report trends and/or concerns to the commander. Fortunately, there are no concerns to report amongst the Warhorse family. We are still focused on our mission, dedicated to each other, and thankful for all the love and support we receive from home.&

40th Expeditionary Signal Battalion Participates in Chaplain's Retreat

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Soldiers with the 40th Expeditionary Signal Battalion, deployed to Iraq, were able to enjoy a break from the day-to-day stresses of being in a deployed environment while attending a chaplain’s retreat at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait and Kuwait City.

U.S. Army Chaplains, Solid As a Rock

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Two U.S. Army chaplains are building much more than the faith of their Soldiers on the remote base here.

Combat Chapel Team Goes Outside Wire for Duty

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The chaplain and his assistant for the 732nd Air Expeditionary Group has a one of a kind job. The Airmen they serve perform their duties in combat zones outside the wire, so they do too.

3-8 CAV Battalion Update

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Cream, Sugar, Salvation -- Life Support Area Chaplain Section Uses Hospitality to Save Lives

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The Army's Life Support Area is an ant hive of activity, serving as the transition point for thousands of U.S. service members moving into and out of Iraq and Afghanistan.

Who Cares for Our Caregivers?

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

In an article from the Professional Journal of the U.S. Army Chaplaincy, Dr. John W. Brinsfield wrote, “Since 1775, commanders have looked to their chaplains as ethical leaders to reinforce Soldiers’ spiritual strength, commitment, cohesion, morale, and moral discipline. The roles chaplains assumed were legion [numerous]: as pastors, preachers, professors, advisors to the commander, participants with their Soldiers in combat, defense counsels, senior leaders, administrators and st

3-8 CAV Battalion Update

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT