1. Volume 1, Issue 11 January 14, 2011
Iraqi, U.S. troops train to succeed at KMTB
Steadfast and Loyal
Warrior
Staff Sgt. Ricardo Branch
2nd AAB Public Affairs
25th Inf. DIV., U.S. Division-North
KIRKUSH MILITARY TRAINING
BASE, Iraq – When the sun crests over
LongKnife
mountains in the east, a new day begins for
Soldiers at Kirkush Military Training Base
located in the Diyala province of Iraq. A
battalion of Iraqi Army soldiers rises in the
morning, accompanied by a cadre of Iraqi
Ironhorse
leaders and U.S. advisors.
Although rarely used as a base dur-
Devil
ing Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraqi Army
units recently increased their attendance
at KMTB during Operation New Dawn to
ensure the army becomes trained to a na-
tional military standard.
Fit for Any Test
Fit for Any Test
Lt. Col. Ali Dawood Alwi said he never
thought he would be arming Iraqi soldiers
from a training center to succeed in safe-
guarding their own country.
“This is where it all began,” said Ali,
describing the training grounds at KMTB.
“This is where one of the first soldiers was
trained to pick up a rifle and begin the steps
to protect their country. This is also where
Ironhorse
Devil
we teach them to protect themselves, and
protect the people of Iraq.”
Alwi, the training officer for the Iraqi
Training Battalion, helps train the new
crop of Iraqi protectors, a task that has be-
LongKnife
come larger due to operational training re-
quirements, and the need to refine soldier
Steadfast and Loyal
skills in the existing IA battalions.
“Our sole function here is to train the
Iraqi Army,” Alwi said. “We get the new
and old soldiers and give them the skills
to ensure their success at the company and
Warrior
U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Ricardo Branch, 2nd AAB PAO, 25th Inf. Div., USD-N
platoon level.” Iraqi Army soldiers fire at targets during M-16 rifle qualifications at the Kirkush Military Train-
Ali said he served as one of the initial ing Base in Diyala province, Iraq, Jan. 5, 2011. The Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry
Iraqi officers recruited to begin the process Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, serve as advisors for Iraqi
Army battalions cycling through the KMTB.
of rebuilding a new Iraqi Army, and has
overseen much of the training at KMTB. See KMTB, pg. 3

2. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
Artillery Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry
Division, assumed duties and responsibilities for his section in the
Task Force 2-11 Tactical Operations Center, after his command
hand-selected him for the position.
“He was selected because he is a smart Soldier, and he knows
the (operating environment),” said Capt. John Burbank, com-
mander, Battery C, 2nd Bn., 11th FA Regt.
Burbank said the TOC needed a Soldier who could work with
U.S. Army Photo the Unamanned Aerial Vehicle Team to locate the suspects as well
Spc. Jake Wresinski, a cannon crewmember assigned to Battery C, as their buildings, vehicles and alleyways where they operate.
2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Wresinski knows the area well due to the time spent conducting
Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, proved himself to be an invaluable as-
set to his unit and the battalion when he was selected to work in the
patrols with his unit, he added.
Task Force 2-11 Tactical Operations Center. Hailed by his peers as a Wresinski’s efforts led to the apprehension of five individuals
professional Soldier with an outstanding work ethic, Wresinski’s per- suspected of launching indirect fire at Joint Base Balad, Dec. 10.
formance collecting and analyzing military intelligence assisted Iraqi His intelligence also assisted partnered missions with 17th Bri-
Security Forces, working with U.S. forces, to capture several suspect-
ed extremists launching mortars at Joint Base Balad, Dec. 10, 2010.
gade, 4th Iraqi Army Division, leading to detainment of more sus-
Wresinski’s attention to detail and outstanding attitude earned him pects.
“Ironhorse Strong” Soldier of the Week. “(Wresinski) has an outstanding work ethic,” said Burbank, a
native of Haleiwa, Hawaii. “He has embraced (the special duty)
Regardless of military occupational specialty, Soldiers perform and gone above and beyond, developing information on his own.”
assigned duties to the best of their ability using knowledge and Burbank also noted that Wresinski received no formal training
talents to support their command and ensure the success of the for the assignment in the TF 2-11 TOC.
mission. His platoon leader, 1st Lt. Mark Faldowski, from Washington,
Chicago-native Spc. Jake Wresinski, exemplified dedication to Pa., assigned to Battery C, said Wresinski performs his duties,
service and a resolve to accomplish any mission while operating seeking responsibility, above his pay grade.
outside his primary MOS as a cannon crewmember, earning rec- “He is a leader to his peers in the unit,” Faldowski said.
ognition as U.S. Division-North “Ironhorse Strong” Soldier of the Through hard work and effective communication, Wresinski
Week. made himself a valuable member of the Ironhorse Team and Iraqi
Wresinski, assigned to Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 11th Field Security Forces during Operation New Dawn.
‘Head Hunter’ troopers Provincial judges, IP demonstrate capability on NCOs of 4th AAB Combat
conduct platoon-level U.S. forces open Tikrit their 89th Anniversary Stress reach-out to troops
operations with Iraqi Army courthouse
Page 4 Page 5 Page 7 Page 9
THE Ivy Leaf Task Force Ironhorse
Commanding General – Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins
The Ivy Leaf is an authorized publication for members of the U.S.
Command Sergeant Major – Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey
Army. Contents of The Ivy Leaf are not necessarily official views
of, or endorsed by the U.S. Government, Department of the Army
or the 4th Infantry Division. The appearance of advertising in this Task Force Ironhorse Public Affairs
publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage TF Ironhorse PAO – Lt. Col. Steve Wollman
without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, TF Ironhorse PA NCOIC – Master Sgt. Carmen Daugherty-Glaze
marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other The Ivy Leaf Layout & Design – Spc. Thomas Bixler
non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. All editorial
content of The Ivy Leaf is prepared, edited, provided and approved
by the United States Division-North Public Affairs Office.
1st Advise and 2nd Advise and
Do you have a story to share? The Ivy Leaf welcomes submissions Assist Task Force Assist Brigade
from readers. Send to the USD-N PAO at usdnpao@usdn4id.army. 1st Infantry Division 25th Infantry Division
mil. The Ivy Leaf reserves the right to edit submissions selected
for the paper. For further information on deadlines, questions or 4th Advise and
comments, email USD-N PAO or call DSN 318-849-0089. Assist Brigade
1st Cavalry Division
2

3. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
Continued from KMTB, pg. 1
“At the start, Coalition Forces were
conducting the training here,” he said.
“They supplied logistics and instructed
classes for our soldiers on how to shoot,
move and communicate. Now it’s Iraqis
conducting the training with U.S. Soldiers
advising them.”
The rebuilding of the training process
and continually building up the number
of troops at the base was a long process,
said Ali, adding that the situation greatly
improved over time.
“First there was a lot of U.S. Soldiers
here, which was good,” he said. “They did
a lot of the training, but have handed a lot
more to Iraqi trainers over the years. Now
we’re providing much of the direction and U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Ricardo Branch, 2nd AAB PAO, 25th Inf. Div., USD-N
purpose of the training.” Pvt. Jeffrey Graham, infantryman, Company A, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Ad-
Ali cited one recent example from the vise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, trains an Iraqi jundi, or soldier, fundamental
techniques to objtain a sight picture using an M-16 rifle during basic rifle marksmanship train-
Al Hadayda Palm Grove incident last Sep- ing at Kirkush Military Training Base in Diyala Province, Iraq, Jan. 5, 2011.
tember where Iraqi soldiers took casualties
from fighting violent extremists in a rural another, but out here everyone is the same. neously ensure their Iraqi battalions each
environment. If they have an issue with a soldier, a trip to have the opportunity to complete a rotation
Following the incident, the cadre and the commander’s office fixes it quickly, but at the KTMB.
U.S. Soldiers looked at ways to modify the that is rare … most put on the uniform and “We’ve done the training for a little over
training to reflect the ever-changing condi- embrace the Soldier lifestyle.” two months, and already you can see im-
tions on a battlefield, he explained. In addition to training at the school- provements from it,” Lackey said.
“We now place an emphasis on wood- house and small unit tasks, U.S. Soldiers of He cited one example where Iraqi sol-
land fighting,” he said. “There are a lot 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd diers completed a company-level night-fire
of (palm groves) where insurgents like to Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry exercise, something which many of the
hide, so we adapted here as well from that Division train battalions of 5th Iraqi Army Iraqi troops have never done before.
incident.” Division in field-level exercises for the “We were conducting basic rifle marks-
Soldiers attending KMTB undergo a Tadreeb Al Shamil, an Iraqi-directed plan manship at night,” Lackey said. “It was one
training program focused on tasks such as, to train the northern forces. of the first times some of the Iraqis had fired
weapons qualification, military occupa- Lt. Gen. Ali Gadon, the commander of their M-16s at night. When the firing was
tional specialty qualification courses and Iraqi Ground Forces, mandated all battal- over, the U.S. Soldiers demonstrated better
squad and platoon leader training courses. ions of the 5th IA Div. complete a rotation firing techniques to help the Iraqis at night.”
Iraqi Training Battalion Cadre directly at KMTB. Once the firing was complete, the Iraqi
supervises the instruction. Each battalion goes through a 25-day soldiers started cheering and singing, clear-
“Training Iraqi Army Soldiers here re- training cycle learning to better operate at ly excited to be learning new skills.
ally makes you love your job,” said Lt. Col. the squad, platoon, and battalion levels. “It was pretty motivating to see that big
Zead Tarek, the senior transportation offi- “We were tasked with bringing Iraqi of an impact from our training, how just
cer for the ITB at the base. “In the begin- soldiers to a central location where we learning a few more skills can change a
ning I didn’t start out here. I didn’t arrive could help train them as an entire battalion person’s attitude so quickly,” Lackey said.
to KMTB until 2009, and I’ve enjoyed my in month-long training, which will bring “It’s extremely fulfilling to see those kinds
time ever since.” about annual training for the entire 5th of changes in someone. We see that often
Zead said his love for the job stems Iraqi Army,” said Maj. Blake Lackey, op- within just a four day period.”
from the experiences he shares with Iraqi erations officer for 1st Bn., 21st Inf. Regt., “As we move toward June, the entire
soldiers who arrive with a thirst for knowl- 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div. process for the battalion collective training
edge to better themselves and their country. To date, two cycles of Iraqi soldiers will be planned, resourced and led by the
The fondest memories come from sol- from 5th IA Div. completed the course, Iraqi Army,” he added.
diers of different backgrounds who bonded which is expected to continue for the next While U.S. Forces transitioned from
as brothers-in-arms after training, sweating few months before transitioning to full combat operations to an advise and assist
and learning from each other, he remarked. Iraqi control. role as part of Operation New Dawn, their
“Sometimes you get a Sunni, Shia, or The 5th IA Div. developed the training Iraqi counterparts assumed the lead for
Kurd, who might not like one another,” he cycle to enable the army to maintain its their own training operations at KMTB,
said. “They may not always agree with one combat readiness in Diyala and simulta- U.S. Division-North and the rest of Iraq.
3

4. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
‘Head Hunter’ troopers conduct platoon
level-operations with Iraqi Army
Spc. Angel Washington Sgt. Robert Fierro (far right), a
4th AAB Public Affairs scout squad leader assigned
to Troop A, 1st Squadron, 9th
1st Cav. Div., USD-N Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise
and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- Division, guides soldiers of the
ING SITE MAREZ, Iraq – Sol- 1st Battalion, 11th Brigade, 3rd
Iraqi Army Division, to assume
diers assigned to Troop A, 1st a line formation during platoon
Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regi- ambush training at Al Ghuzlani
ment, 4th Advise and Assist Warrior Training Center, Jan.
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, 10, 2011. Iraqi soldiers received
graded evaluations on their train-
trained Iraqi soldiers on pla- ing to demonstrate their prog-
toon-level ambush operations U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Washington, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div. ress from the first day of train-
at Al Ghuzlani Warrior Train- Regt., 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div. platoon,” said Fierro, currently ing a week ago. Soldiers of 4th
ing Center, Jan. 10. AAB, 1st Cav. Div., are working
“They will know exactly on his third deployment.
with their Iraqi counter parts at Al
After a week of tactical what they need to do and how Unlike their first week of Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center
training at team and squad lev- to do it,” said the native of Al- training, Iraqi soldiers received during All Inclusive Training, or
els, IA soldiers assigned to the pine, Texas. graded evaluations on their Tadreeb Al Shamil, an Iraqi-di-
1st Battalion, 11th Brigade, rected initiative to improve Iraqi
Iraqi soldiers of 1st Bn., 11th overall ambush procedures.
Army units’ ability to provide the
3rd Iraqi Army Division, pro- Bde., 3rd IA Div., reacted to an During the training scenario, highest level of security for their
gressed to working as a platoon ambush scenario to strengthen IA soldiers used blank rounds, people.
in efforts to increase the battal- their basic soldiering skills, re- simulated grenades and newly
ion’s effectiveness as a unit. hearsing movement tactics and acquired skills to defeat the op- 9th Cav. Regt. “Once we leave,
“The training here at Ghu- the proper ways to respond to posing forces. we can be proud knowing we
zlani will make the transition direct and indirect fire. “They are picking up every- helped them to get to a point
for the Iraqi soldiers easier “The team and squad-level thing we’re teaching them very where they will be able to de-
when we leave,” said Sgt. Rob- procedures learned previously quickly,” said Spc. Xavier Mo- fend themselves against (exter-
ert Fierro, a scout squad leader in their training set the foun- rales, a fire support specialist, nal threats).”
assigned to 1st Sqdn., 9th Cav. dation for them to operate as a assigned to Troop A, 1st Sqdn., “They will be able to inte-
grate the training that we’re
teaching them into the way they
operate,” said Morales, a native
of San Juan, Puerto Rico, serv-
ing on his second deployment.
Soldiers of 4th AAB, 1st
Cav. Div., will continue to ad-
vise, train, and assist their Iraqi
counter parts at Al Ghuzlani
Warrior Training Center during
Tadreeb Al Shamil, Arabic for
All Inclusive Training, assist-
ing the Iraqi Army to provide
the highest level of security for
the Iraqi people.
“The training we are re-
ceiving is very useful and with
the (practical) exercises we
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Washington, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N conduct, we are gaining more
Soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, maneuver against simulated en- experience,” said Pfc. Dalee
emy forces as part of Tadreeb Al Shamil, individual and collective tactical training conducted at Al Ghuzlani Ahmed, an infantryman in 1st
Warrior Training Center, Jan. 10, 2011. U.S. Soldiers assigned to 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 4th
Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, instructed their Iraqi counterparts in support of Tadreeb al
Bn., 11th Bde., 3rd IA Div.
Shamil, an Iraqi-directed program to provide individual and collective training at the squad, team, platoon,
company and battalion levels during a four-week cycle at Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center.
4

5. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
Provincial judges, U.S. forces open Tikrit
courthouse
Sgt. Coltin Heller
109th MPAD
U.S. Division-North Public Affairs
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE
SPEICHER, Iraq – Gleaming marble and
the scent of fresh paint greeted provincial
judges and U.S. Soldiers at the grand open-
ing of the Tikrit Courthouse, Jan. 9.
Iraqi provincial judges gathered with
Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and
Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion,
27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and
Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, to
commemorate the new courtroom for local
judges to hold legal proceedings ensuring
stability and security in the area.
“This building will allow us to have
a foundation to build upon,” said Faisal
Ibraham Al Azawi, president of provincial
judges for Salah ad Din province. “We will
be able to gain the trust of the people and U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
Lt. Col. Donald Brown, commander, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and As-
that of the Americans.”
sist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, speaks to provincial judges of Salah ad Din province dur-
After a ceremonial ribbon cutting, pro- ing the grand opening of the Tikrit Courthouse, Jan. 9, 2011. The renovation of the courthouse,
vincial judges toured the recently renovat- one of several buildings in the complex to be refurbished, served as the first step in bringing
ed courthouse, admiring the restored build- local trials to Tikrit. “This is a great day for the people of Tikrit and Iraq,” Brown said. “They will
have the full support of the law from local advocates.” Brown and Soldiers of 1st. Bn., 27th Inf.
ing and its facilities.
Regt. provided support to the project, conducting assessments for Iraqi contractors repairing
“We are very happy today,” said Al the 30-year-old building.
Azawi, speaking on behalf of the provin-
cial judges in attendance. “We are proud to establishment of the courthouse is benefi- Baghdad construction company, said the
have worked with our American friends on cial to the local community. condition of the building complex has
this endeavor.” “It’s come 180 degrees from when we greatly improved with the project.
The courthouse hosts trials for crimes were here the first time,” said Wolfe. “The “This place was terrible,” said Ibrahem.
that carry a sentence of five years or less, complex also houses a legal services build- “It was not suitable to work from. We fixed
and settles judicial matters pertaining to is- ing to process marriage licenses and bank- everything from plumbing to electrical to
sues local to Tikrit, he said. Cases, such as ruptcy cases. Fiscal and land disputes are the very walls.”
terror crimes, which fall outside the court’s also handled at the complex.” The construction project, erecting walls
jurisdiction, are transferred to the Salah ad “As well as providing jobs for local and replacing the gate with a stronger mod-
Din Major Crimes Court also located in Ti- citizens, it will enable the judges to better el, improved the security at the site, he said.
krit. develop the judicial process,” Wolfe added. The construction company completed
While the provincial court tries small The 1st Bn., 27th Inf. Regt., “Wolf- the renovation in approximately six weeks,
cases, Al Azawi stated Salah ad Din judges hound” Soldiers assisted the Iraqi contac- with plans to complete the legal service
intend to stay true to the law and the people. tors, providing assessments of physical building in months. A third building, the
“Now we will show the community we requirements needed to complete the con- court of appeals, adjacent to the courthouse
can execute the law in a serious and disci- struction. The Soldiers worked with an showed signs of construction with wood
plined manner,” said Al Azawi. Iraqi construction company to facilitate forms holding a concrete roof aloft.
Moving the provincial judicial court to completion of the site. “We hope to have the new sections com-
Tikrit provides judges with a local perspec- “There was minimal U.S. involvement pleted soon. This way we can receive the
tive, enhancing their ability to conduct tri- in this project,” said Wolfe. “We gathered people and have a good place to work,” Al
als, he added. the information and sent it to the Iraqi gov- Azawi stated, motioning at the court com-
First Lt. Matthew Wolfe, Civil Affairs ernment for approval. The Iraqi govern- plex. “Here the people can reap the fruit of
officer, HHC, 1st Bn., 27th Inf. Regt., who ment took care of the rest.” our labor, knowing we are working toward
worked closely with Iraqi judges, said the Muhammed Ibrahem, manager of a a safe, stable Iraq.”
5

6. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
The graduation ceremony, Jan. 5, at the
Iraqi soldiers graduate from 12th IA Div. Headquarters recognized the
graduates of the course for their accom-
military intelligence academy plishments.
Seven of 25 Iraqi students graduated
with honors.
The distinguished honor graduate, Sgt.
IA recruits complete Intelligence, Surveillance and Ali Ibrahim Mosul of the ISR Battalion,
Reconnaissance school to join 12th IA Div. 12th IA Division, scored greater than 90
percent average for all his tests.
Pvt. Alyxandra McChesney intelligence reports, map reading and intel- “All of the instructors we had were
1st AATF Public Affairs ligence preparation for the future military amazing,” said Mosul. “They made it easy
1st Infantry Division, USD-N intelligence soldiers. by breaking everything down for us and
The five-week ISR Academy also pro- making sure we all understood before mov-
CONTINGENCY OPERATING LOCA- duced future Iraqi noncommissioned of- ing on.”
TION K1, Iraq – Twenty-five Iraqi Army ficers who will train the next group of re- The cadre at the ISR Academy collected
military intelligence soldiers graduated cruits. lessons learned from the first iteration, said
from a U.S. forces-led Intelligence, Sur- “NCOs are essential in the development Burgos, and is scheduled to begin a new
veillance, and Reconnaissance Academy of the soldiers and the unit as a whole,” training cycle in mid-January.
during a ceremony at Contingency Operat- said Burgos. Training to become instructors for a
ing Location K1 Jan. 5. Burgos said the course accomplished its subsequent iteration of the course, the hon-
Soldiers assigned to Company A, 1st objective and by the end several of the Iraqi or graduates from the first ISR Academy
Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 1st Ad- NCOs were teaching classes themselves. class will serve as teaching assistants for
vise and Assist Task Force, from Fort Riley, “It was great to see the partnership be- the second class, said Burgos.
Kan., developed, planned, and operated the tween the U.S. Soldiers and the Iraqi sol- “We hope to expand and enhance the
ISR Academy. diers grow over the last five weeks,” said training opportunities of the military intel-
“We wanted to develop a program that 2nd Lt. Alexei Fainblout, the training team ligence course,” concluded Burgos. “This
would train and get the soldiers engaged in military intelligence adviser, 12th Iraqi will just be one stepping stone to having
their jobs from the start and get the 12th IA Army Training Team, 1st BSTB, 1st AATF, the 12th IA ISR Bn. conducting indepen-
ISR started on a training model that would 1st Inf. Div. dent operations in the future.”
be institutionalized over time,” said Capt. “The soldiers were
Alexander Burgos, commander, Company very engaged in the
A, 1st BSTB, 1st AATF. training and eager to
Burgos worked closely with Lt. Col. learn,” said Fainblout,
Adnan, commander, ISR Bn., 12th IA Div., who calls Fort Riley,
to develop course material and a training Kan., home.
schedule that would be appropriate to train Upon completing
the new IA soldiers. the course, the new
The ISR academy began in December graduates were as-
when the new Iraqi recruits met the cadre signed to the 12th Iraqi
from Company A at 12th Iraqi Army Divi- Army Division’s Intel-
sion Headquarters. ligence, Surveillance,
The cadre administered a literacy test to and Reconnaissance
assess the recruits’ ability to follow writ- Battalion, providing
ten material, said Burgos. The test results the Iraqi division with
helped the cadre determine the pace for the additional capabilities
ISR Academy training schedule. in collecting and ana-
The “Devil” Brigade Soldiers covered lyzing military intelli-
several different tasks, including writing gence.
Lt. Col. Samuel Calkins, commander, 1st Brigade Special Troops Battal-
ion, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, from Ft. Riley,
Kan., congratulates Distinguished Honor Graduate Sgt. Ali Ibrahim Mo-
sul of the Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Battalion, 12th
IA Division, for earning the highest grade point average at the inaugural
training class of the ISR Academy, during a graduation ceremony at the
12th IA Div. Headquarters Jan. 5, 2011. Soldiers of Company A, 1st BSTB,
1st AATF, 1st Inf. Div. served as cadre for the military intelligence train-
ing academy teaching Iraqi soldiers to collect and analyze military intel-
ligence. “All of the instructors we had were amazing,” said Mosul. “They
made it easy by breaking everything down for us and making sure we all
understood before moving on.”
U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Alyxandra McChesney, 1st AATF PAO,
6

7. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
IP demonstrate capability
on their 89th Anniversary
Maj. John Mini Advise and Assist Task Force from Fort
1st AATF Public Affairs Riley, Kan., attended the event as a guest
1st Inf. Div., U.S. Division-North speaker.
Welsh said while his Task Force advis-
CONTIGENCY OPERATING SITE es, trains and assists the Iraqi Police as part
WARRIOR, Iraq – Iraqi Police celebrated of Operation New Dawn, he is fully confi-
the 89th Anniversary of the founding of dent the Iraqi Police, under the leadership
their force with a parade, displays, and a of Maj. Gen. Jamal, are in the lead, protect-
live counter-terrorism demonstration at the ing the people of Kirkuk.
Kirkuk Training Center Jan. 9. “What we see here today is a testament
More than 20 local media stations cov- to your leadership,” Welsh said to Jamal.
ered the event providing Iraqi Police in “The Iraqi Police in Kirkuk have shown
Kirkuk an opportunity to celebrate their time and time again that they are willing
history and demonstrate their capability to and able to protect the people and fight
protect Iraqi citizens of the province. crime and violence. It is our honor to be
“We are here today to celebrate freedom, your partners in this effort.”
U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Alyxandra McChesney
democracy, and to remember the fallen he- Each of the police sub-districts within
Members of the Kirkuk Iraqi Police Emergen-
roes who have given everything in the fight the province provided a platoon-size ele- cy Services Unit form a file to execute a hos-
against terrorism,” said Maj. Gen. Jamal ment to march in a pass and review before tage rescue drill during Iraqi Police Day Jan.
Tahr Bakr, Kirkuk’s Provincial Director of the provincial director. 9, 2011, at the Kirkuk Training Center. The IP
Iraqi Police special units, the Emer- units conducted the hostage rescue to dem-
Police, who hosted the ceremony featuring
onstrate the capabilities of the elite IP quick-
more than 500 Iraqi Police. gency Services Unit, Emergency Response reaction force.
“In the last year in Kirkuk, crime has Unit and a Special Weapons and Tactics
decreased by more than 35 percent,” said unit marched in the parade commemorat- The IP units concluded the ceremony
Jamal. “This is because of the hard work, ing the IP Birthday. An IP Explosive Ord- with a brief exercise demonstrating their
training and sacrifice of the brave police nance Disposal team also participated in capability to fight terrorism and protect the
that you see here before you today. They the parade, marching in their bomb-protec- population.
work together as one team to protect all tion suits. Two actors dressed as terrorists drove a
people of Kirkuk, regardless of ethnicity, Following the parade of troops, the Iraqi vehicle into the center of the parade field
religion or tribal affiliation.” Police formed a parade line with their ve- and took several individuals hostage.
Col. Eric Welsh, commander of the 1st hicles in front of the reviewing stand. Members of Kirkuk IP’s Emergency
Services Unit responded, surrounding the
scene and subduing the role-players to save
the notional hostages. The IP EOD unit
also diffused a mock bomb, showcasing
their technical abilities during the exercise.
The exhibition concluded with the IP
Criminal Investigation Unit collecting evi-
dence to be used later in any judicial pro-
ceedings against the captured terrorists.
The exercise demonstrated the ability of
Kirkuk’s Iraqi Police to respond to a vio-
lent situation using a variety of resources
and training.
“We’re not going to stop fighting crime
and protecting the people who count on
us,” said Jamal. “The people of Kirkuk
now are seeing that they have better se-
U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Alyxandra McChesney, 1st AATF PAO curity, and they too are helping the police
Maj. Gen. Jamal, Kirkuk Provincial Director of Police, gives permission to Col. Issa, command- to protect them by providing information
er of troops to begin a pass and review during the Iraqi Police 89th Anniversary Celebration at about crime and supporting the police in all
the Kirkuk Training Center Jan. 9, 2011. Civic leaders from Kirkuk attended the ceremony as of their efforts.”
a sign of support and gratitude for Kirkuk Iraqi Police’s service to the people of the province.
7

8. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
U.S. Cavalry Soldiers teach IA how
to react to an ambush at GWTC
Spc. Angel Washington “If every soldier knows how
4th AAB Public Affairs to operate at the basic level, it
1st Cav. Div. USD-N will make their army better as a
whole,” said Gaymon, a native
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- of Long Island, N.Y.
ING SITE MAREZ, Iraq – Sol- Different from responding
diers assigned to 1st Squadron, to basic enemy contact, am-
9th Cavalry Regiment, 4th bushes involve enemy forces
Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st deliberately positioning to en-
Cavalry Division, trained Iraqi gage friendly forces.
soldiers to react to an enemy During the training sce-
ambush at Al Ghuzlani Warrior narios, Iraqi soldiers moved as
Training Center, Jan. 5. squads at the GWTC, remain-
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Washington, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div.
Cavalry scouts instructed ing watchful and alert, knowing
Sgt. Martin Gaymon, a cavalry scout assigned to Troop A, 1st Squad-
Iraqi soldiers of 1st Battalion, the enemy could attack at any ron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry
11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army minute. Division, U.S. Division-North, instructs Iraqi soldiers of 1st Battalion,
Division, fundamental tech- U.S. forces, operating at 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, during react to an ambush train-
ing at Al Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center, Contingency Operating Site
niques for properly reacting GWTC, led the individual and
Marez Jan. 5, 2011.
to ambushes from various dis- collective infantry training for
tances. Soldiers of the 3rd IA Div. as to communicate. Sgt. William Fatherree, a scout
“The reason we are giving part of Al Tadreeb Al Shamil, When U.S. forces simulated assigned to Troop A, 1st Sqdn.,
them this training is so they will Arabic for All Inclusive Train- attacks, using the word, “bang,” 9th Cav. Regt. “We’re training
be able to defend themselves ing, a four-week training cycle the IA soldiers immediately as- them on the things we were
against the enemy if they ever to develop Iraqi Army divi- sumed defensive positions to taught.”
encounter an ambush,” said sion’s offensive and defensive engage the enemy and secure “One day they will have to
Sgt. Martin Gaymon, a cavalry capabilities. the area. train their own soldiers, so we
scout assigned to Troop A, 1st The soldiers moved silently “We are here to help im- are laying a foundation so they
Sqdn., 9th Cav. Regt. and using hand and arm signals prove their army overall,” said can pass the training along,”
said the Fort Worth, Texas- na-
tive.
As Iraqi soldiers demon-
strated their growing compe-
tency throughout the training,
they asked to lead their own
soldiers.
“This training is very good
for us,” said 1st Lt. Kasim
Muhemed, platoon leader, 1st
Bn., 11th Bde. 3rd IA Div. “We
are learning in two parts: class-
room and doing it directly.”
“This helps us to learn more
and improves the Iraqi Army,”
said the native of Diyala prov-
ince, Iraq.
Soldiers of 1st Sqdn., 9th
Cav. Regt., continue to train the
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Washington, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N Iraqi battalion at the Al Ghu-
Iraqi soldiers of 1st Battalion, 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, communicate orders during an enemy zlani Warrior Training Center
ambush while training at Al Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center, Jan. 5, 2011. Iraqi soldiers learned the funda- through January as part of U.S.
mentals of reacting to ambushes from Soldiers assigned to 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Ad-
vise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, who will continue to train the battalion as part of Al Tadreeb
Division-North’s advise, train
Al Shamil, Arabic for All Inclusive Training, a four-week training program to develop Iraqi Army division’s and assist mission in support of
warfighting capabilites at the troop, company and battalion levels. Operation New Dawn.
8

9. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
NCOs of 4th AAB Combat
Stress reach-out to troops
Spc. Terence Ewings Marez.
4th AAB Public Affairs “Even though this isn’t a (deployment
1st Cav. Div., U.S. Division-North focused on combat operations) there are
still stressors Soldiers need to learn how to
CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE deal with,” said Perrin.
MAREZ, Iraq – Soldiers assigned to the The “Reboot Your Mind” Program con-
4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry sisted of tobacco cessation, extreme emo-
Division, took part in the “Rebooting Your tions management, relationship, stress
Mind for the New Year” classes held at management, resilience training and sleep
Contingency Operating Site Marez Memo- hygiene classes, all of which Soldiers can
rial Dining Facility to counteract the “holi- regularly sign up for at the Combat Stress
day blues” Jan. 3-8. clinic.
The 4th AAB’s behavioral health spe- In addition to emphasizing services
cialists teamed with troopers from the 85th available to the troops, the combat stress U.S. Army photo by Spc. Terence Ewings
Medical Detachment, 1st Medical Brigade, clinic provides troops at the base informa- Behaviorial health specialists Sgt. Matthew
from Fort Hood, Texas, to provide com- tionto help their fellow “battle buddies” Webb, assigned to 85th Medical Detachment,
1st Medical Brigade, from Fort Hood, Texas,
bat stress classes in the DFAC to remind during their time of need. and Sgt. Christi Perrin, assigned to Company
Soldiers about the services and counselors “These classes teach Soldiers how to C, 27th Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Ad-
available during the deployment. help other Soldiers who may not want to vise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division,
“We’re here reaching out to people that seek help,” said Sgt. 1st Class Otis Tyner, teach a class on resiliency to Soldiers sta-
tioned at Contingency Operating Site Marez,
wouldn’t regularly come to the clinic, be- a native of Auburn, Ala., and the mainte- Jan. 7, 2011.
cause they’re afraid to seek help,” said nance platoon sergeant, Company G, 5th
Sgt. Christi Perrin, a 4th AAB behaviorial Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment. returning home with PTSD.
health specialist assigned to Company C, “It’s important for that battle buddy to Webb said now he sees the “other side”
27th Brigade Support Battalion. “We want know what to say to their fellow Soldier, of PTSD, working with deployed Soldiers
all the Soldiers to know what services we and where they can take them to receive to keep troops mentally healthy.
offer here and be comfortable enough to professional help.” “These classes set the foundation for
come talk to us.” Sgt. Matthew Webb, a behaviorial people to help themselves and others,” said
The team addresses issues that could health specialist assigned to 85th Medical Webb, a native of Fort Wayne, Ind. “We
possibly turn into serious issues, such as Detachment, 1st Medical Brigade, from know everyone doesn’t want to come to
post traumatic stress disorder, Perrin said. Fort Hood, Texas, said he always had an in- the clinic, but everyone has to come to the
Perrin, from Ennis, Texas, said she en- terest in being part of the preventive stage DFAC to eat; while they’re here they have
joys working with the rest of the service- in mental health issues. the opportunity to increase their knowledge
members in the Combat Stress Team, to as- For six years prior to his deployment to on behaviorial health and possibly help
sist the deployed troopers stationed at COS Mosul, Iraq, Webb worked with Soldiers their battle buddy.”
All Soldiers are encouraged to seek
professional help and take part in the ser-
vices provided by the Combat Stress clinic
if they need it. They’re also urged to help
their fellow Soldiers by sharing the infor-
mation.
Soldiers of Company G, 5th Battalion, 82nd
Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Advise and As-
sist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, read a
psychological first aid slide during a resil-
iency training class held at the Contingency
Operating Site Marez Memorial Dining Facil-
ity, Jan. 7, 2011. The deployed 4th AAB Sol-
diers from Fort Hood, Texas, participated in
the combat stress-related class during their
lunch period. The training class was part of
the “Rebooting Your Mind for the New Year”
Program, intended to reach out to Soldiers
who may need or are seeking behavioral help.
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Terence Ewings, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
9

10. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
Reorganized ‘Ivy Division’ Band better
prepared for mission in Iraq
Sgt. Coltin Heller
109th MPAD
U.S. Division-North PAO
CONTINGENCY OPERAT-
ING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq
– Since before the Revolution-
ary War, the U.S. Army fielded
bands, providing bugles, drums
and flutes for militia to conduct
drill and ceremony, signal a
commander’s tactical orders to
his troops, or inspire Soldiers to
stand fast in battle.
Throughout the centuries, U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
the role of military bands Fourth Infantry Division rock band “High Altitude,” plays for Soldiers stationed at Contingency Operat-
evolved and transformed with ing Base Speicher New Year’s Day. The band members, assigned to Musical Performance Team C, part
of the “Ivy Division” Band, Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Inf. Div., represent one of several small
the many missions and deploy- ensembles the band reorganized into after Army bands transformed to modular teams.
ments of today’s modern Army.
“Division bands used to New York. classic rock elements like gui- The restructuring allowed
deploy when an entire divi- Sections of 4th Infantry tars and drums with brass in- musicians of each MPT to hone
sion would deploy,” said Chief Division’s Ivy Division Band struments for a unique sound, their individual musical skills
Warrant Officer Marvin Cardo, continue to provide entertain- and Brass Incline attends for- on a particular style of music,
conductor of the Ivy Division ment for audiences stationed mal ceremonies playing the providing band members with
Band. “Think of the band now at Contingency Operating Base National Anthem, Ivy Division more experience and Soldiers
as a brigade combat team, in Speicher and troops deployed March and other formal Army with a greater variety of music.
the sense that the band is able throughout northern Iraq in songs. “In the past, bands were
to deploy each section on its support of Operation New “This marks the first time more geared toward concert
own.” Dawn, he explained. sections of a band deployed in- type performances,” said Staff
The transformation separat- Two rock bands, “H.E.A.T.” dependently,” Cardo said. “The Sgt. Larry Weisel, who hails
ed the 45 musicians of the “Ivy and “High Altitude” deployed (Music Performance Teams) from Lowery, Minn., and
Division” Band into Music Per- with “Brass Incline”, a brass here are on a six-month deploy- serves as keyboard player for
formance Teams, which allow quintet, to U.S. Division-North ment.” High Altitude. “This allows the
the musicians more flexibility, in support of Operation New MPTs will rotate back to band members to focus on a
deploying in smaller, mobile Dawn. Fort Carson to support events particular genre of music.”
sections, said Cardo, a native of The rock bands combine at home station, trading places “Having these specialized
with the other members of the sections allows us to have a
band, who will deploy to sup- wider more diverse foot print,”
port troops with U.S. Division- said Weisel.
North. Playing every Saturday at
Spc. Kasey Walker, trumpet the COB Speicher Dining Fa-
player for MPT C, the High Al- cility and traveling to play for
titude rock band, said the new units throughout southern and
organization has increased the northern Iraq, Weisel said he
band’s overall effectiveness. enjoys watching the audience
“This allows us to do multi- take a longer lunch or dinner as
ple missions at the same time,” they revel in familiar beats.
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO said Walker, an Evansdale, “I enjoy every performance
Spc. Kasey Walker on the trumpet, plays along side fellow band mem- Iowa-native. “With smaller we do for the Soldiers in the
bers, Sgt. Tygue Weirda, saxophone player, and 1st. Sgt. Cornell Her-
rington, trombone player and noncommissioned officer in charge of
ensembles we can be moved field,” said Weisel. “This is one
the “High Altitude” rock band, Musical Performance Team C and “Ivy from place to place with little of the most rewarding career
Division” Band, Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Divi- hassle.” fields.”
sion.
10

11. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
Celebrity singers
visit COS Marez
Famous recording art-
ist, Joan Jett performs
during a United Service
O r g a n i z a t i o n s - s p o n-
sored concert for troop-
ers assigned to 4th Ad-
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Washington, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div. vise and Assist Brigade,
Soldiers assigned to 5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 4th 1st Cavalry Division,
Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, receive the Oath of and civilian personnel
the U.S. Army Noncommissioned Officer during an NCO Induction working at Contingency
Ceremony, Jan. 7, 2011, at Contingency Operating Site Marez. Newly Operating Site Marez,
inducted NCOs will lead their fellow Soldiers as they continue their Iraq, Jan. 10, 2011. Jett,
advise, train, and assist mission in support of Operation New Dawn. orginally from Phila-
Twenty- five Soldiers participated in the ceremony to include 16 ser- delphia, and country
geants and nine corporals. singer Kellie Pickler,
performed their most
Corps welcomes new popular songs during
the two-hour show. Fol-
lowing the show, both
singers took the time to
‘Black Dragon’ NCOs sign autographs for the
deployed troops.
Command Sgt. Maj. Calvin Coler,
a native of New Orleans and the
senior enlisted advisor assigned
on
to 5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artil-
gt
lery Regiment, 4th Advise and
hin
Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Divi-
as
lW
sion, looks on as Sgt. Jack War-
ge
ner, a field artillery tactical data
An
systems specialist assigned to
c.
Sp
Battery A, 5th Bn., 82nd FA Regt.,
by
signs his copy of the Creed of
o
the Noncommissioned Officer
ot
Ph
during an NCO Induction Cer- Kellie Pickler, center,
emony at Contingency Operating a country music art-
Site Marez, Jan. 7, 2011. Warner, a ist from Albemarle,
native of Salt Lake City, received N.C., performs during
formal recognition for becoming a United Service Orga-
a NCO. Soldiers recited the NCO nizations-sponsored
creed together before taking the concert for Soldiers as-
Oath of the U.S. Army Noncom- signed to 4th Advise and
missioned Officer. Assist Brigade, 1st Cav-
Photo by Spc. Angel Washington alry Division, stationed
Cpl. Clifford Quinton, a field ar- at Contingency Operat-
tillery tactical data systems spe- ing Site Marez, Iraq, Jan.
cialist, assigned to Battery B, 10, 2011. Throughout
5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery the event, the former
Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist “American Idol” contes-
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, tant shared her success
adds his signature to the Creed story with the Soldiers
of the Noncommissioned Officer and thanked them for
during an NCO Induction Cer- their hard work while
emony at Contingency Operating deployed in support of
Site Marez, Jan. 7, 2011. With his Operation New Dawn.
signature, Quinton, a native of
McAlester, Okla., officially joined
the ranks of the NCO Corps,
completing the time-honored tra-
dition of an NCO Induction Cer-
emony.
Photo by Spc. Angel Washington 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
11

12. The Ivy Leaf January 14, 2011
Hey Doc: Green Mucous: ‘No, it ain’t
Capt. Kate West
Surgeon’s Office
U.S. Division-North
right, but don’t worry’
people tend to feel run down can only treat the symptoms cough. Ibuprofen and acet-
“Hey Doc: I’ve had a cough just before the onset of a cold. of the cold. Antibiotics do not aminophen can ease your head-
for two days and have green Some people believe vita- work against viruses. ache and body aches.
stuff coming out of my nose. mins and herbal supplements Contrary to popular belief, An antihistamine, like
I know that ain’t right. Do I help keep illness away. How- you cannot tell whether you diphenhydramine, or Benadryl,
need an antibiotic?” – signed ever, I would check with your have a viral or bacterial infec- can help dry up your nose and
“Sniffles” troop medical clinic physician tion by the color of your mu- reduce the sneezing. Sudafed,
assistant, or doctor, before cus. While you are sick, you a decongestant, will help un-
Dear Sniffles, starting any herbal remedies, should continue to drink plenty plug your nose. We also like
I am sorry you don’t feel to make sure they are safe and of fluids and get extra rest. It Mucinex, which helps thin
well. Sounds like you have won’t interfere with your other is okay if you do not feel like your mucous, making it easier
a cold. Cold and flu season medications or the occasional eating. for you to clear it.
peaks in the winter months, Army urinalysis. Also, it is okay to continue Your doctor can also recom-
even in Iraq. Colds are caused And finally, do not smoke! to exercise while you are sick. mend several medicines to help
by viruses, most commonly the It causes chronic irritation of However, if you don’t feel up your cough – coughing is good
rhinovirus. your airway and makes you to hitting the gym, take a few because it helps get rid of the
Viruses and bacteria spread more susceptible to infection. days off until you are feeling phlegm.
as they float in the air, or are Smoking will cause you to be better. Going on Sick Call: you are
passed from objects onto your sick longer than a non-smoker. Cough drops can help your probably wondering when you
hands and then to your nose, How to get treatment: we sore throat and calm your should see a medical provider.
mouth and eyes. Adults get If you have been sick for
an average of four colds per three to four days and are
year, and kids get an aver- not feeling better, I recom-
age of eight per year. mend you see a doctor. You
The most common should also see a provider,
symptoms of a cold are if you have any concerns
headache, nasal congestion, about what medications you
runny nose, sneezing, sore should be taking.
throat, fatigue, and cough. A fever over 101 degrees
You may also experience should also be checked out.
earaches, dizziness, chest You can continue to work
congestion, body aches, or while you are sick. How-
stomach aches. ever, if you have had a fever
Most colds last about greater than 101 degrees,
seven days. Your symptoms you should not return to
will be most intense during work until you have been
the first three days and then fever-free for 24 hours.
should start to improve. If you are having any
Tips for Prevention: symptoms of chest pains,
there are many ways to difficulty swallowing and
prevent colds. Good hy- handling your saliva, or dif-
giene with hand washing ficulty catching your breath,
and hand sanitizers is an you should see a provider as
important way to prevent soon as possible.
the spread of illness. Also, Fortunately, most colds
coughing and sneezing into are merely an inconve-
the bend of your elbow can nience, and you will get
prevent the spread of the better regardless of what
virus on your hands and you do.
then your co-workers. Stay well, Taskforce
It is also important to Ironhorse! Keep those ques-
get plenty of sleep, as most tions coming!
12