Wolfhound soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment supported the Iraqi Salah ad Din Riot Dispersal Unit during Operation Able Magnum IV to target violent extremist networks. The operation was led by the Iraqi Police, who generated intelligence and planned and executed the mission with minimal U.S. involvement. One suspect was detained during the operation. Additionally, the 1st Battalion, 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division became the first unit to graduate from the new Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center, completing a four-week training program to improve the Iraqi Army's capabilities.

1. Volume 1, Issue 14 February 4, 2011
Wolf hounds combine efforts with ISF to
Steadfast and Loyal
Warrior
thwart violent extremist networks
Sgt. David Strayer
109th MPAD
USD-N Public Affairs
LongKnife
CONTINGENCY OPERAT-
ING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq
– Soldiers of Company A, 1st
Battalion, 27th Infantry Regi-
Ironhorse
ment, 2nd Advise and Assist
Brigade, 25th Infantry Divi-
Devil
sion, provided support to Iraq’s
Salah ad Din Riot Dispersal
Unit during Operation Able
Magnum IV in areas south-
east of Contingency Operating
Fit for Any Test
Fit for Any Test
Base Speicher, Iraq, Jan. 29.
“Woflhound” Soldiers of 1st
Bn., 27th Inf. Regt., accompa-
nied the Iraqi Police unit in an
advise and assist role, support-
ing the RDU during a cordon
and search mission targeting
warranted violent extremists in
the vicinity of Al Zahoor and
Ironhorse
Devil
Khadasia neighborhoods in
Tikrit.
“Our goal is to support the
Salah ad Din RDU in intel-
ligence fusion and targeting
LongKnife
processes that will lead to war-
Steadfast and Loyal
rant-based arrests during coun-
ter-terrorism operations,” said
Capt. Matt Hills, commander,
Company A. “The operation
was an Iraqi-led initiative.”
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David Strayer, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
Iraqi Police from Salah ad
Warrior
Cpl. Christopher Hallford, Company A, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Bri-
Din RDU worked extensively gade, 25th Infantry Division, uses a Handheld Interagency Identity Detection Equipment Biometric tool to
during the past several weeks take retina scans of a suspect after Operation Able Magnum IV, Jan. 29, 2011. The operation was a joint
to generate their own intelli- mission with Company A coordinating its efforts with the Salah ah Din Riot Dispersal Unit searching for
gence for the mission, refining warranted extremists in the areas southeast of Contingency Operating Base Speicher. The RDU gener-
ated the intelligence, formulated a plan, and conducted the execution of the mission with U.S. forces
See EXTREMISTS, pg. 3 acting in a supporting role.

2. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
Troops Battalion, 1st Advise of us on this team,” said Capt. Thomas Her-
and Assist Task Force, 1st In- man, commander, Troop A, 1st Sqdn., 9th
fantry Division, distinguished Cav. Regt., 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div.
themselves amongst their peers “His selfless actions came without
as the “Ironhorse Strong” Sol- thinking—a reaction built from long hours
diers of the Week for actions training. It is truly an honor to have him as
taken in defense of their fellow a member of my team.”
Soldiers while deployed in sup- Radke, a native of Tucson, Ariz., saved
port of Operation New Dawn. the life of a comrade experiencing a seizure
Gardner, a native of Poland, Jan. 18.
Main, effectively defended “Spc. Radke is a hero; he saved the life
Pfc. Kevin Gardner, cavalry scout, members of his unit during an of a fellow Soldier,” said Sgt. First class
Troop A, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regi- attack on U.S. Forces at the Al Ghuzlani Deadrian McKelvey, platoon sergeant,
ment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Warrior Training Center Jan. 15. Company C, 1st STB, 1st AAFT, 1st Inf.
Cavalry Division, and Spc. Don Radke, “He displayed to his fellow troopers the Div. “He is trained, confident, and compe-
combat medic, Company C, 1st Special intense loyalty he has for them, and for all tent. What more could a leader ask for?”
U.S. Army Photo
U.S. Army Photo Spc. Don Radke, right, a combat medic from Tucson, Ariz., assigned
Pfc. Kevin Gardner, a cavalry scout from Poland, Maine, assigned to to Company C, 1st Special Troops Battalion, 1st Advise and Assist
Troop A, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, takes a blood pressure reading for
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, pulls security during a training class at Spc. Napoleon Cruz, combat engineer, Company C, 1st STB, at Con-
the Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center, Feb. 3, 2011. tingency Operating Site Warrior, Feb. 2, 2011.
First Iraqi Army unit U.S. Soldiers, Kirkuk Police Graduation marks milestone MPs conclude deployment
graduates from GWTC partner for justice for Iraqi training with award ceremony
Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 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 February 4, 2011
Continued from EXTREMISTS, pg. 1
the focus of operations based networks, Hills added. Jasem, commander of Salah ad identified for Operation Able
on suspected locations, gener- The Wolfhounds are work- Din RDU. Magnum IV.
ating a priority suspect list, and ing toward getting the RDU to Able Magnum IV is proof Wolfhound Soldiers used
creating a plan to execute Able the point where information is that the RDU can execute ev- biometric tools to archive the
Magnum IV with U.S. forces shared between agencies, and ery stage of the operation with suspect’s fingerprints and iris
present in a supporting capac- coordination is a joint effort, minimal U.S. forces involve- scans, while the RDU con-
ity. Hills said. ment, said Jasem. firmed the identity of the sus-
One of several municipal Due-process is a concept that For the first time in the pect and took him into custody.
agencies dedicated to law en- the Wolfhounds have placed RDU’s partnership with U.S. “The end state is that the ISF
forcement in the Salah ad Din much emphasis on during their forces, the Iraqi Police took re- in the province will be able to
province, the RDU partnered advise and assist partnership sponsibility for every aspect of provide security … and man-
with Wolfhound Soldiers of with the RDU, he added. the operation, he said. age the threats that come from
Company A in August of 2010. “Enforcing Rule of Law and From gathering intelligence, violent extremist networks,”
Hills, a native of Lisle, Ill., Police Primacy is one of the to the planning and execution said Hills. “We are working to
said he has seen improvements biggest things we have tried to of the operation, the RDU led get them to where our advise
in every aspect of how the RDU instill in the ISF,” said Hills. the mission, essentially briefing and assist support is no longer
operates, including organiza- “We want them to uphold the the Wolfhounds of Company A needed; they are very close to
tion and communications be- legal standard, making arrests on their intentions and then ex- that point.”
tween other law enforcement based on evidence collection ecuting. Wolfhound Soldiers of
agencies. and issued warrants.” “The operation was an over- Company A continue to work
It is essential these agen- “Our agencies must be ac- whelming success,” said Hills. with the RDU and other ISF to
cies share information and countable for collecting evi- “From planning to (apprehend- ensure a more stable Salah ad
coordinate their efforts when dence, sharing information, and ing the suspect), the RDU had it Din province as part of their ad-
conducting counter-terrorism making arrests based on issued under control …” vise and assist mission in sup-
operations and managing the warrants rather than just mak- The Iraqi Police detained port of Operation New Dawn.
threat from violent extremist ing arrests,” said Maj. Asem one of five warranted suspects
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David Strayer, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
Capt. Matt Hills, Company A, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, reviews the Salah
ah Din Riot Dispersal Unit’s plan with RDU Commander Maj. Asem Jasem, before conducting Operation Able Magnum IV in areas southeast
of Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, Jan. 29, 2011. Soldiers of Company A monitored the progress of the RDU from the gathering of
intelligence, planning and the execution stage of the operation. “We acted entirely in a supporting role,” said Hills. “The RDU generated their
own intelligence, made their own plans based on that ‘intel,’ and executed the mission. It was impressive to see them act in such a ‘left-seat’
capacity.” The Wolfhound Soldiers of 1st Bn. 27th Inf. Regt. will continue to work with the Salah ah Din RDU until they no longer require U.S.
forces to advise, train, and assist.
3

4. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
First Iraqi Army unit graduates from GWTC
Sgt. Shawn Miller Having the ability to train an
109th MPAD entire battalion in one setting
USD-N Public Affairs permits the Iraqi Army staff of-
ficers to see the training exercise
GHUZLANI WARRIOR as a whole and guide senior of-
TRAINING CENTER, Iraq – ficers on exercises beyond indi-
Iraqi Army soldiers of 1st Bat- vidual tasks, Kniffen explained.
talion, 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi The 5th, 7th and 10th IA
Army Division, became the first Divisions are also conducting
alumni of the recently opened similar training during 2011,
Ghuzlani Warrior Training as Iraqi Ground Forces Com-
Center, graduating from a four- mand continues to modernize
week training program, Jan. 27. its army, added Hussain.
First Battalion soldiers According to Hussain, the
trained on a wide range of tasks U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Shawn Miller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO Iraqi Army is planning to rotate
from individual and squad- Iraqi Army staff Lt. Gen. Hussain Jasim Dohi, Iraqi Ground Forces 48 battalions through Ghuzlani
level tactics to company-level Command Deputy Chief of Staff for Training, congratulates soldiers and similar training centers
battle drills as part of Tadreeb of 1st Battalion, 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, following the spread across the country by
unit’s graduation ceremony at the Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center,
al Shamil, a new training initia- Jan. 27, 2011.
the end of the year.
tive to modernize Iraqi forces’ Hussain noted other com-
warfighting capabilities for na- level military operations, as taught them during the first part manders and unit leaders will
tional defense operations. part of an ongoing effort to of the training and carry that benefit from 1st Battalion’s it-
“In the Iraqi Army, we say, modernize warfighting capa- forward through the remainder eration at Ghuzlani, which will
‘The sweat of training will re- bilities of Iraqi Army divisions. of the training.” improve subsequent rotations
duce blood on the battlefield,’” “They did a lot better start- Kniffen said Iraqi trainers for Iraqi units at the training
said Iraqi staff Lt. Gen. Hussain ing out than we anticipated,” will replace Soldiers of 4th center.
Jasim Dohi, deputy chief of said Maj. Jason Kniffen, opera- AAB at the GWTC, as U.S. “We are looking forward
staff for training, Iraqi Ground tions officer, 1st Sqdn., 9th Cav. forces transition from teach- to rebuilding the Iraqi armed
Forces Command. “We can- Regt., who led the final evalu- ing Iraqi Army units to serving forces to a national, indepen-
not increase the capability and ation for the battalion. “They in an advisory capacity during dent and professional Army,”
readiness for any army without were able to take the skills we Tadreeb al Shamil. he said.
training.”
The battalion will now have
the opportunity to incorporate
skills learned at GWTC into the
Iraqi Army unit’s day-to-day
operations, said Hussain.
U.S. Soldiers from 1st
Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regi-
ment, 4th Advise and Assist
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division,
implemented and supervised
the training regimen.
U.S. advisors taught con-
cepts to Iraqi unit leadership
using a train-the-trainer ap-
proach, with the Iraqi officers
then conducting their own
training for soldiers within
their battalion.
During the four weeks of U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Shawn Miller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
training, Iraqi soldiers con- Iraqi Army soldiers of 1st Battalion, 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, stand in formation during a
graduation ceremony at Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center near Mosul, Jan. 27, 2011. The battalion’s gradu-
ducted individual and collec- ation ceremony represented the completion of the inaugural rotation of training at the GWTC. One of four
tive training, progressing from locations in Iraq committed to train IA battalions on collective unit operations as part of Tadreeb al Shamil,
small unit tactics to battalion- Arabic for All-Inclusive Training, the GWTC opened in January as an enduring training facility for Iraqi Army
units to develop their warfighting capability to secure the sovereign nation of Iraq.
4

5. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
U.S. Soldiers, Kirkuk Police partner for justice
Spc. Andrew Ingram tion, detaining five suspects for Kirkuk, said Capt. Matthew was detained for questioning,
USD-N Public Affairs questioning. Makaryk, commander, Compa- said Makaryk.
“This is our plan for the se- ny B, 2nd Bn., 12th Cav. Regt. Cpl. Bryce Luginbill, a team
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- curity of Kirkuk,” said Kirkuk Soldiers of Company B and leader assigned to Company
ING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq – Chief of Police Maj. Gen. Ja- Kirkuk Police Department’s B, said he believes the Kirkuk
Soldiers of 2nd Battalion, 12th mal Tahr Bakr. “When people Emergency Services Unit ESU has become a highly pro-
Cavalry Regiment, 1st Advise see the police come, it raises searched the suspect’s neigh- fessional and well-rounded
and Assist Task Force, 1st In- their morale, because they borhood, presenting warrants quick reaction force, able to re-
fantry Division partnered with know we are here to protect to search homes and question spond to emergencies through-
Iraqi Police to detain violent them. Also, the extremists do residents. out the city with speed and
extremists and strengthen se- not know when we are coming, “We’ve done a lot of mis- competency.
curity in Kirkuk City, Iraq, Jan. so it keeps them off-balance.” sions like this with the (ESU),” “I was here in Iraq in 2008 to
24-26. Lt. Col. Joe Holland, com- said Makaryk. “They handle 2009, and we worked with the
The Kirkuk Emergency mander, 2nd Bn., 12th Cavalry things a little bit differently same ESU guys then,” said the
Services Unit led Operation Regt., said he and his Soldiers than we do, but they know what Columbus Grove, Ohio native.
Out for Justice, searching lo- are proud to work with the Iraqi they are doing.” “They are much more com-
cal residences and interviewing Police during these types of The IP ESU led the search, petent now; they have a better
citizens about possible criminal missions, because these types entering each of the homes, understanding of how secu-
and extremist activity in the of operations prove the capabil- bringing its occupants outside rity operations are supposed to
area. ity of the Iraqi Security Forces. for questioning by Thunder- work.”
“Thunderhorse” Battalion “The IPs in Kirkuk are a horse Soldiers. The 12th Division of the
Soldiers supported the Iraqi very professional organiza- The Company B Soldiers Iraqi Army also participated in
Police providing additional tion,” said Holland. “They are fingerprinted, photographed Operation Out For Justice, lo-
security and equipment while ready to do this on their own. and questioned each male oc- cating a large weapons cache,
the Iraqis interviewed citizens, We are continuing to give them cupant about the whereabouts consisting of 34 155 mm artil-
looking for information about some enabling help, but they of the suspect. lery rounds and other bomb-
suspicious activity in the area. are doing a great job out here.” Although U.S. and Iraqi making material, during a cache
During the first day of the U.S. and Iraqi forces re- forces did not locate the suspect search in the outer districts of
operation, Iraqi Police conduct- ceived information indicat- during the first day’s mission, a Kirkuk province.
ed a cordon and knock opera- ing the suspect was living in man believed to be his brother
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD-N PAO
Kirkuk Provincial Director of Police Maj. Gen. Jamal accompanies Kirkuk Police Emergency Services Unit during a cordon and knock operation
through a neighborhood in Kirkuk City, Jan. 25, 2011. U.S. Soldiers of 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force,
1st Infantry Division, assisted Kirkuk ESU during the operation. The ESU cordoned areas of the city, going from house to house to speak with
the occupants, distribute humanitarian assistance packages and search for warranted individuals. The three-day operation, conducted with
assistance of “Thunderhorse” Soldiers of 2nd Bn., 12th Cav. Regt., resulted in the detention of several suspects.
5

6. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
Graduation marks milestone for Iraqi training
Sgt. Coltin Heller Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, commanding
109th MPAD general of 4th Infantry Division and U.S. Divi-
sion-North, returns a salute rendered to him
U.S. Division-North Public Affairs by an Iraqi platoon leader of 3rd Battalion,
21st Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division, during
a graduation ceremony at Kirkush Military
KIRKUSH MILITARY TRAINING Training Base, Jan. 28, 2011. The graduation
BASE, Iraq – Flags rippled in the breeze marked the first time a battalion completed
as Iraqi soldiers of 3rd Battalion, 21st Bri- collective unit training at KMTB. “The secu-
gade, 5th Iraqi Army Division, marched rity of a nation rests on the shoulders of its
soldiers and its army, and the capability of an
with rifles on shoulders conducting a pass army depends upon its training,” said Per-
and review during a graduation ceremony kins to Iraqi soldiers and unit commanders.
at Kirkush Military Training Base, Jan. 28. “This training that we are completing here to-
The graduation marked the first time U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller
day has not only improved the capacity of the
soldiers in the unit, but it is in fact the basis of
an Iraqi Army battalion graduated from ing here today has not only improved the the security of the nation of Iraq.”
KMTB, an enduring training facility cre- capacity of the soldiers in the unit, but
ated to prepare Iraqi Army units to sustain it is in fact the basis of the security of the platoon leader and IA advisor assigned to
their ground forces and prepare Iraqi sol- nation of Iraq.” Company A, 1st Bn., 21st Inf. Regt., 2nd
diers for their mission to defend the people Perkins congratulated the Iraqi soldiers AAB, 25th Inf. Div.
of Iraq. for completing the tough training cycle, Part of the advise and assist role taken
Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, command- and commended the Soldiers of 1st Bat- by U.S. forces operating in support of Op-
ing general of 4th Infantry Division and talion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd AAB, eration New Dawn, U.S. Soldiers assigned
U.S. Division-North, and Col. Malcolm 25th Inf. Div., for their professional per- to Company A, 1st Bn., 21st Inf. Regt., led
Frost, commander, 2nd Advise and Assist formance, partnering and working with the a train-the-trainer program, teaching Iraqi
Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, attended Iraqi Army, while representing the people officers and noncommissioned officers to
the event, observing the future of Iraq’s of the United States. train their soldiers.
army. “Soldiers of our Army are not only are “This is essential to Iraqi units,” ex-
“The security of a nation rests on the greatest protectors, but they are our great- plained Guo, speaking of the self-sustain-
shoulders of its soldiers and its army, and est ambassadors,” he said. ing element of training.
the capability of an army depends upon its The Iraqi soldiers of 3rd Bn., 21st Bde., Pfc. Abbas Yaas Khundar, mortarman,
training,” Perkins said before the graduat- 5th IA Div., set a new standard in their 3rd Bn., 21st Bde., 5th IA Div., said he and
ing class and distinguished guests in atten- training efforts, performing well-above fellow soldiers honed their skills during the
dance. “This training that we are complet- U.S. expectations, said 1st Lt. Scott Guo, training at KMTB.
“The training was very good,” said
Khundar. “We learned many new tech-
niques that will help us. We will take them
back to the company and use them there.”
Responsible for mentoring the Iraqi
soldiers throughout the Tadreeb al Shamil
training, “Warrior” Soldiers of 2nd AAB,
25th Inf. Div. held a special ceremony
prior to the graduation to recognize Iraqi
soldiers for their outstanding performance
during the training cycle.
“This is our way of saying thank you for
all the hard work they put in the past 25-
days,” said Guo.
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
Iraqi soldiers assigned to 3rd Battalion, 21st Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division, proudly display
unit colors marching pass their commanders during a graduation ceremony at Kirkush Military
Training Base, Jan. 28, 2011. Iraqi units rotated through a 25-day training cycle, part of Tadreeb
al Shamil; Arabic for All Inclusive Training, at KMTB. During the training cycle, Iraqi soldiers
learned modern military tactics, techniques and procedures from U.S Division-North Soldiers
of 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division,
deployed to Iraq in support of Operation New Dawn.
6

7. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
Tadreeb al Shamil, translated from Arabic, means “All Inclusive Train-
ing.” U.S. Division-North Soldiers stationed at Al Ghuzlani Warrior Train-
ing Center and Kirkuk Military Training Base lead the diverse training for
Iraqi Army battalions during 25-day cycles. Tadreeb al Shamil is an Iraqi-
directed training program to modernize Iraqi Army units’ capabilities. IA
soldiers are learning individual and collective military operations, ranging
from squad movement techniques to mortar fire training, modeling their
tactics, techniques and procedures after U.S. forces. U.S. Soldiers teach
the classes using the “crawl, walk, run” and “train the trainer” models, in-
structing IA officers and noncommissioned officers on the skills necessary
to sustain individual and collective training at the unit level.
7

8. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
Kirkuk Police sharpen
weapon and medical skills
Spc. Andrew Ingram Police trained up in the next few weeks,”
U.S. Division-North Public Affairs Edkins said. “These guys are responsible
for the security of a lot of political leaders
CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE in Kirkuk, so it is important for them to be
WARRIOR, Iraq – Iraqi Police assigned well-trained.”
to the Kirkuk Government Building honed Spc. Billy Arana, a combat medic as-
emergency medical skills, strengthened signed to the 512th MP Company, said he
their understanding of communications has seen a drastic improvement in the Iraqi
equipment and trained on the maintenance Police’s competency during his 11 months
of various in Iraq.
weapons during “We are better than “The Iraqis are very receptive to this
training with we were last year. training,” said Arana, who hails from San
U.S. Soldiers Last year, we were Francisco. “For them, it is very exciting to
and State De- learn from Americans, and they are learn-
better than the year
partment civil- ing skills they can pass on to future police
ians Jan. 24-25. before that; day by officers and soldiers when they join.”
The Iraqi day, we are training “Now that they are really standing up
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram
Police trained and getting better.” as a sovereign nation, they seem to under- An Iraqi police officer, assigned to the Kirkuk
with the AK- stand the role they are playing,” said Ara- Government Building, performs a function
47 and M1014 – Lt. Col. Goran na. “They are professionals now.” check on an M1014 shotgun during weap-
shotgun; and The training program provided the IP ons training Jan. 25, 2011. U.S. Soldiers of
Abdulmajed Gily the Provincial Police Transition Team, 512th
learned how to officers an opportunity to refresh many Military Police Company, 92nd Military Police
operate two-way radios, said Staff Sgt. Co- of their skills, said Legal Lt. Col. Goran Battalion, attached to 1st Advise and Assist
rey Edkins, military policeman, 512th Mil- Abdulmajed Gily, chief of security for the Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, provided
itary Police Company, 92nd Military Police Kirkuk Government Building. training and assistance to Iraqi Police whose
primary function is to protect the government
Battalion, attached to 1st Advise and Assist “I am very thankful to the American building where most of Kirkuk Province’s civ-
Task Force, 1st Infantry Division. forces for helping us with training, from ic leadership works.
The IPs also practiced basic lifesaving Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003 until
skills with medics of Company B, 101st now,” Gily said. “We are better than we Lt. Col. Ardrelle Evans, Team Chief of
Brigade Support Battalion, 1st AATF, 1st were last year. Last year, we were better the Provincial Police Transition Team for
Inf. Div. than the year before that; day by day, we Kirkuk and Sulaymaniyah provinces, said
“We are trying to get all of the KGB are training and getting better.” the training is part of U.S. forces’ larger
mission to prepare Iraqi forces to stand on
their own.
“I’m excited about the Iraqis, their ex-
citement and individual proficiency,” said
Evans, who designed the program. “I’m
excited about the opportunity for them to
solve their own unique problems with an
Iraqi solution, and I believe with a little
more technical assistance they will be well
on their way.”
Joseph Mohammad, an Iraqi police officer as-
signed to the Kirkuk Government Building,
places a bandage on his comrade Jamal Atip,
covering a notional stomach wound during
first aid training with Soldiers from Company
B, 101st Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Ad-
vise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Divi-
sion, at the Kirkuk Government Building, Jan.
25, 2011. In addition to medical training the
Iraqi Police also conducted weapons training
and practiced two-way radio communication
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD-N PAO techniques.
8

9. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
MPs conclude deployment with award ceremony
Cpl. Robert England
2nd AAB Public Affairs
25th Inf. Div., USD-N
CONTINGENCY OPERAT-
ING BASE WARHORSE, Iraq
– The company of men and
women stood at attention—
Soldiers lined up in crisp,
straight rows and columns—
each exhibiting a supreme level
of discipline; even their eyes
were still.
Col. Malcolm Frost, brigade
commander of 2nd Advise and
Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry
Division, presented end of tour
awards to 512th Military Police
Company at the Salie Gym Jan.
23 at Contingency Operating
Base Warhorse, Diyala prov-
ince, Iraq.
The presentation of awards
ceremoniously concluded the
512th MP Company, “Titans’,”
U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Robert England, 2nd AAB PAO, 25th Inf. Div., USD-N
deployment to Iraq in support Spc. Mario Bravo, right, a military policeman assigned to 512th Military Police Company, attached to 2nd
of Operations Iraqi Freedom Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, salutes Col. Malcolm Frost, brigade commander of 2nd
and New Dawn. AAB, 25th Inf. Div., during an award ceremony at the Salie Gym on Contingency Operating Base Warhorse,
During the first six months Diyala province, Iraq, Jan. 23, 2011. The 512th MP Company conducted missions with their Iraqi Police
counterparts in the Diyala, Salah ad Din and Kirkuk provinces during the final months of Operation Iraqi
of the deployment, the MPs Freedom through Operation New Dawn. The 272nd Military Police Company, based out of Mannheim, Ger-
worked closely with their Iraqi many, will replace the 512th MP Company, which will return to Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., in February.
Police counterparts in the Di-
yala, Salah ad Din and Kirkuk who hails from Baltimore. ing crimes when we’re gone, “In the beginning, it was
provinces. Though the types of mis- and in recruiting and training tough being in a new environ-
U.S. forces and Iraqi police sions remained the same, the new IPs as they continue to ment with unique challenges,
conducted partnered security contrast arose in the level of in- grow their Iraqi Police force,” but once the operational tempo
patrols and escort missions be- volvement the MPs had in joint he said. was established, the 512th MP
tween March and September, missions with the IPs. Donecker said the MPs con- Company adapted extremely
said 1st Lt. Joshua Donecker, Donecker said the military ducted various redeployment well under hazardous condi-
executive officer, 512th MP police company assumed more preparations to ensure the pro- tions with outstanding results,”
Company. of an advisory role, provid- cess is as smooth as possible for Donecker said.
Donecker said the military ing support when needed and the Soldiers, their Families and The 272nd Military Po-
police focused their main ef- allowing the Iraqis to take re- the incoming unit. lice Company, based out of
forts to teaching Iraqi Police sponsibility for the mission “We conducted the Post- Mannheim, Germany, is slated
crime scene investigation tech- planning and execution. Deployment Health Reassess- to replace the 512th MP Com-
niques, and partnered with Iraqi “We just expanded on what ment, and have also had sev- pany, returning to Fort Leonard
Police in checkpoint opera- they already knew,” said Spc. eral reintegration briefs from Wood, Mo., in February.
tions, riot control procedures Jacob Shields, an Iron Moun- the legal representative and the “We are all very excited
and female IP training. tain, Mich. native, and a com- chaplain,” he said. “We began and ready to start the reinte-
The transition from security munications specialist assigned this process about a month ago gration process with our Fami-
operations of OIF transitioned to 512th MP Company. “We to ensure a smooth transition.” lies, knowing we are leaving
seamlessly to the “advise and also taught them things to look Despite the initial chal- our missions to the 272nd MP
assist” mission of OND, be- for regarding potential suspects lenges of dealing with complex Company with a great under-
cause the MP company was in crimes, and how to prove it provinces, Donecker said he standing of the operational en-
already training and mentor- in court. is pleased with the results of vironment,” he said.
ing Iraqi Police, said Donecker, It should help them in solv- working with the Iraqi Police.
9

10. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
Friday Night Lights: old rivalries, new partnerships
Sgt. David Strayer
109th MPAD
U.S. Division-North Public Affairs
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE
SPEICHER, Iraq – When there are only
two high schools in the county of a small
town coastal area, everyone, who knows
everyone else, knows that the most talked
about event each week takes place Friday
night under the lights.
Two 4th Infantry Division staff officers
are well-versed with small town football
rivalries and playing on the gridiron on an
Autumn Friday night.
Lt. Col. Al Kearse, a field artillery of- U.S. Army photo
Unbeknownst to Lt. Col. Frank Wynne and Lt. Col. Al Kearse, officers assigned to 4th Infantry
ficer currently serving as the Electronic
Division and U.S. Division-North, both Soldiers grew up on opposite sides of the track, high
Warfare officer of 4th Inf. Div. and U.S. school rivals on the football gridiron. Twenty-nine years later, Kearse and Wynne are working
Division-North, grew up in the small town together to provide Iraqi Security Forces training and assistance for the future of Iraq.
of Inverness, Fla., attending and playing
football for the Citrus High School Hurri- Kearse and Wynne both played varsity our careers in the military.”
canes in Citrus County. football for three years at their respective “The first time we would have played
“There were only two high schools in schools. Each year they faced off on the against each other on the football field
Citrus County,” said Kearse. “There was gridiron, playing for rivalry bragging rights would have been 29 years ago,” said Ke-
Citrus High School, where I attended, and and the ability to walk away from the sea- arse. “We probably hit each other numer-
Chrystal River—our long time football ri- son with satisfaction. ous times on the field, but never really met
vals.” “Our schools always played each other until we got to Fort Carson in 2009 and
Lt. Col. Frank Wynne, an armor offi- the last game of the season,” said Wynne, started working together in preparation for
cer who currently serves as the Red Team who played offensive line for Chrystal this deployment.”
Chief Counter-Planning officer for the 4th River. “It didn’t matter what happened Now deployed to Iraq in support of Op-
Inf. Div., also grew up in Citrus County, throughout the rest of the season. We could eration New Dawn, the two staff officers
Fla., and attended Chrystal River High have been winless and they could have once again find themselves on the gridiron
School the same years Kearse attended Cit- been undefeated─at the end of the season, and under the Friday night lights where ev-
rus High School. the school that won the Citrus-Chrystal eryone is paying attention.
“The two schools were eighteen miles River rivalry game was the school that had “Frank and I are now on the same team,
apart,” said Wynne. “Students from the two the best season.” working together on the 4th Inf. Div. staff
schools would rarely cross paths unless it The two competitors would go on to fol- to help stabilize a fledgling democratic
was summertime, or you happened to work low similar career paths; Wynne joining the government still facing security threats,”
in the watermelon fields.” Reserve Officers’ Training Corps at Saint said Kearse.
The two staff officers discovered their Leo College in Florida, and Kearse attend- Both Kearse and Wynne agreed whole-
paths had crossed before during a Thanks- ing the United States Military Academy at heartedly that this deployment in support
giving meal at U.S. Division-North Com- West Point, New York. of Operation New Dawn is a tremendous
prehensive Soldier Fitness Center, where Both Kearse and Wynne were commis- opportunity to watch as political, sectarian,
they discussed military careers, sports and sioned in the U.S. Army as second lieuten- and religious rivals within the Iraqi govern-
their children’s athletic activities. ants in 1987. They each served in Kuwait, ment come together to form a democratic
“We were talking about the quality of Saudi Arabia, and Iraq during the first Gulf system of governance—essentially watch-
the school systems back home near Fort War; and more recent deployed to U.S. Di- ing history unfold as it happens.
Carson,” said Wynne. “One topic led to an- vision-North in support of Operation New As high school students, the two officers
other; we each asked where the other was Dawn. squared off as rivals on the football field
from, and discovered that we had crossed With more than 46 years combined ser- only to become friends and co-workers 29
paths before.” vice, both look forward to a new chapter in years later. Now, Kearse and Wynne are
“That’s when we really started to peel their lives, raising their children in Colo- working together to provide Iraqi Security
the onion back, and talk about what years rado Springs, Colo. Forces with the training and assistance they
we were in school and when we played “We have both discussed the idea of re- will need to sustain a secure future for the
football. It was a classic case of small- tirement after this tour,” said Kearse. “As people of Iraq.
world syndrome,” said Wynne. the war in Iraq is coming to a close, so are
10

11. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
Chaplain’s Corner: Country Star Craig
Morgan brings COS
Remaining Spiritually Fit Warrior together
Lt. Col. Jeffrey Houston things like reading books connected to their
Pfc. Alyxandra McChesney
Chaplain spirituality.
1st AATF Public Affairs
U.S. Division-North Do you enhance your connection by
1st Inf. Div., U.S. Division-North
some sort of daily spiritual focus? Like PT,
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE consistent and regular is the key. All major CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE
SPEICHER, Iraq – In last week’s edition religious groups have scriptures, or sacred WARRIOR, Iraq – The crowd rose to their
of The Ivy Leaf, Chaplain Maj. Ken Hurst writings that are available for study. If a feet and gave country star Craig Morgan a
took on the difficult task of trying to define person’s spirituality is defined outside the warm welcome as he entered the gymna-
“Spirituality.” bounds of religion, there will still be books sium Jan. 31 at Contingency Operating Site
In a nutshell, he defined spirituality as, to study, and things to learn. Warrior, Kirkuk, Iraq.
“a person’s connection, or ability to connect Community: This area focuses on a “First and foremost, I want to thank the
with, something greater than themselves.” person’s relationship with others who share man upstairs for giving me the opportunity
Of course, not everyone will accept that similar understandings of spirituality. In- to come here and share my music with all
definition, but in our diverse culture, it is dividuals exercise this area by spending of you, and bring a little bit of ‘home’ to
about as close as we can get. time celebrating, fellowshipping, worship- Iraq,” said Craig Morgan, who hails from
This week we take on the idea of Spiri- ping, or studying with others who share Nashville, Tenn.
tual Fitness. What is it? And how do I be- similar beliefs. Most faith groups, and Morgan kicked off the show with the
come Spiritually Fit? Again, we have to other non-religious groups that seek spiri- hymn “Amazing Grace,” drawing on the
look at this from a broad perspective, but I tual connections, celebrate special seasons, audience to sing along, and then led into
think we can find some practical ideas that commemorate events, and join together as one of his first top ten hits, “That’s what I
almost all Soldiers can use to enhance their communities for many reasons. Any time love about Sundays,” an appropriate tribute
Spiritual Fitness. individuals join together with others of like to the day he performed at COS Warrior.
I define Spiritual Fitness as strengthen- mind, their spiritual fitness is enhanced.
ing the connection between a person, and And just like PT, regular and consistent is See MORGAN, pg. 12
that which they consider greater than them- the key.
selves. Communion: This area emphasizes the
A good way to help us understand the heart. When we consistently connect with
principles of Spiritual Fitness is to look at something greater than ourselves, we can
the principles behind physical fitness. be changed in profound ways. We exercise
We do a lot of things for PT, everything the very heart of our spirituality when we
from spin class to combatives. Still, the allow ourselves some quiet time to pray,
heart of Army physical fitness remains the meditate, or reflect on the spiritual connec-
“Big Three:” Push Ups, Sit Ups and the tions in our lives.
Run. For me, it all looks something like this:
Each exercise focuses on a different Connecting: I seek to be Spiritually Fit
area: abdominals, upper body and cardio. by studying my Bible and reading theology
If we do the big three consistently and reg- books.
ularly, each of us should be physically fit Community: I find strength when I go to
Soldiers. Chapel on Sundays, and experience com-
Spiritual Fitness also has a “Big Three:” munity and fellowship when I hang out
Connection, Community, and Communion. with the worship praise team on Tuesday
Exercise these three areas and you, yes and Saturday nights.
YOU, can be on your way toward Spiritual Communion: I am changed and made
Fitness. spiritually healthy when I spend time alone
Let me define each of the Spiritual Fit- with God in prayer every day.
ness Big Three, and explain the exercise What YOU do to be Spiritually Fit, may
technique connected to each one. look very different from what I do! U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Alyxandra McChesney
Connection: This area focuses on the We live in a great country that allows us Country music star Craig Morgan visited
mind. Connection leads an individual to to make our own choices in this area. The Contingency Operating Site Warrior and per-
formed some of his hit songs for the Soldiers
increase their understanding of whatever, Army has recognized the value of Spiritual of the 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st
or whoever it is that they consider greater Fitness, but unlike PT, the Army has not, Infantry Division, from Fort Riley, Kan., Jan.
than themselves. Individuals exercise this and will not devise a Spiritual Fitness Test. 30, 2011. His final song, “Almost Home,”
area by learning and by study─by simple It is all up to you. struck a particular chord with his audience,
who sang along with the entire last verse.
11

12. The Ivy Leaf February 4, 2011
Hey Doc: ‘My head’s killin’ me, but
Lt. Col. Mark Krueger
Pharmacy Consultant
USD-N Surgeon
what about my liver?’
“Hey Doc: I heard acetaminophen is dangerous and will de- It is very important to carefully follow your healthcare pro-
stroy my liver. What am I supposed to take if I have a headache, vider’s directions. You may not notice the signs and symptoms
fever, or sore muscles?” – signed “Love My Liver” of liver damage right away because they take time to appear. Or,
you may mistake early symptoms of liver damage—for example,
Dear “Love My Liver,” loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting—for something else, like
We admire your liver, too, and want you to stay in great the flu. Liver damage can develop into liver failure or death over
health. So, listen up. several days.
Acetaminophen is the generic name of a drug found in many Get educated─after all, it’s YOUR body! Learn more about
common brand-name over-the-counter products, such as Tylenol, acetaminophen safety by visiting the Food and Drug Administra-
as well as prescription products such as Vicodin and Percocet. tion Web site:
Acetaminophen’s effectiveness in relieving pain and fever is http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/
widely known. At the correct dose, it is quite safe. Taking more ucm239747.htm.
than recommended, however, can cause liver damage, ranging See your healthcare provider, or the Taskforce Ironhorse Phar-
from abnormalities in liver function blood tests to acute liver macy Consultant for a handout. Keep your livers strong Taskforce
failure and even death. Ironhorse, and keep those questions coming!
Preventive measures you can take: • Never take more than one medicine that contains acetamin-
ophen. Check the active ingredients of all your medicines to
• Take opioid/acetaminophen combination products only as make sure you are taking no more than one medicine contain-
prescribed by your healthcare provider. ing acetaminophen at a time.
• Do not take more of an acetaminophen-containing medicine • Do not drink alcohol when taking acetaminophen.
than directed; even a small amount more can cause liver dam-
age. • Stop your medicine and seek medical help immediately if you
think you have taken more acetaminophen than directed.
• Carefully read all labels for prescription and over the counter
medicines, and ask if your prescription pain medicine contains • Do not take more acetaminophen than the maximum daily
acetaminophen. Prescription medicine labels that contain acet- dose of 4,000 milligrams (4 grams).
aminophen may say “APAP.” • Finally, don’t take acetaminophen for more days than directed.
Continued from MORGAN, pg. 11
Although Craig Morgan became famous back to the Soldiers,” said Vestering. to show us that the people back home are
for his country music, he is also a U.S. The visit was Morgan’s ninth tour bring- thinking of us and that we are not forgot-
Army veteran who served 11 years before ing his country music to Iraq. ten,” said Vestering.
he started his entertainment career. Morgan said he felt it is important for Morgan played “Almost Home” as one
“I was in the Army for a very long time, the people back home to know what is go- of his last songs of the night, asking the
and there is a whole lot of it I miss,” said ing on in Iraq and understand the positive crowd to sing the last verse for him.
Craig, who served with the 82nd Airborne things U.S. forces have done in Iraq. Holding out the microphone to the audi-
Division and 75th Ranger Regiment. By playing his music for the troops and ence, the gym filled with Soldiers, Airmen,
Staff Sgt. Brent Vestering, a Wichita, having stories about his performances in civilians and contractors becoming one in
Kan. native, serving as the noncommis- Iraq sent home, Morgan said he feels he unison singing, “I just climbed out of a
sioned officer in charge of 1st Advise and can help spread that message. cottonwood tree; I was running from some
Assist Task Force Legal office, said he Vestering said he had the opportunity to honey bees; Drip dyrin’ in the summer
likes Craig Morgan for his music and be- talk to Craig and his band before the con- breeze; After jumpin’ into Calico creek;
cause of the efforts he makes to reach out cert. I was walkin’ down an old dirt road; Past
to Soldiers. “They understand the war in Iraq is a field of hay that had just been mowed;
“Craig is cut from the same cloth; he winding down, and they said even though Man, I wish you just left me alone; ‘Cause
grew up through the ranks just like all of us we’re no longer in the spot light of the me- I was almost home.’”
standing here. He did his time and served dia, and not considered to be in combat op-
his country, yet here he is today still giving erations on a day to day basis, they want
12