1. U.S. Division-North
Volume 1, Issue 33 Established in 1917 to honor those who serve June 17, 2011
‘Black Jack’ Brigade take reins in two Iraqi
Black Jack
Steadfast and Loyal
provinces, ‘Warrior’ Brigade redeploys
Sgt. Justin Naylor
2nd AAB Public Affairs
1st Cav. Div., USD-N
LongKnife
CONTINGENCY OPERAT-
ING BASE WARHORSE,
Iraq – Soldiers of 2nd Advise
and Assist Brigade, “Black
Ironhorse
Jack,” 1st Cavalry Division,
assumed responsibility for the
Devil
U.S. mission in Salah ad-Din
and Diyala provinces, Iraq,
during a Transfer of Authority
ceremony at Contingency Op-
erating Base Warhorse, June
Fit for Any Test
Fit for Any Test
13.
Black Jack Brigade re-
placed 2nd AAB, 25th In-
fantry Division, as “Warrior”
Brigade wrapped up a year-
long deployment in support of
Operation Iraqi Freedom and
Operation New Dawn.
The transfer of authority
Ironhorse
Devil
marked the start of Black Jack
Brigade’s fourth tour of duty
in Iraq, and the unit’s first de-
ployment in an advise, train
and assist role in support of
LongKnife
Operation New Dawn.
Steadfast and Loyal
“Second AAB, 1st Cav.
Div., will conduct stability
operations and security force U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Quentin Johnson, 2nd AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
assistance in Diyala and Salah Colonel John Peeler, left, commander of 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, and Com-
ad-Din provinces to support mand Sgt. Maj. Emmett Maunakea, command sergeant major of the brigade, uncase the “Black Jack”
Brigade colors during the Transfer of Authority Ceremony between 2nd AAB, 25th Infantry Division, and
Iraq’s continued development
BLack JAck
2nd AAB, 1st Cav. Div., at Contingency Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq, June 13, 2011.
as a sovereign, stable, and
self-reliant strategic partner Brigade. tiatives that have already been of the advise, train and assist
committed to regional stabil- Black Jack Brigade, from set in motion by 2nd AAB, mission in Iraq, said Peeler.
ity,” said Col. John Peeler, Fort Hood, Texas, will con- 25th Inf. Div., with a focus
commander of Black Jack tinue with the efforts and ini- on the successful completion See TOA, Pg. 3

2. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
Whether stationed at home or deployed overseas, any Soldier’s
main concern stays in the forefront of their mind: the well-being of
their comrades next to them.
Staff Sergeant George Nettles, noncommissioned officer in
charge of the signal cell for Special Operations Task Force-North,
U.S. Division-North, and a native of Birmingham, Ala., earned the
title of “Ironhorse Strong” Soldier of the Week for saving a fellow
Soldier during a routine lunchtime meal in the dining facility at
Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, May 30.
“We went to the chow hall, and we were sitting there eating
when I felt a piece of chicken lodge in my throat,” said Staff Sgt.
Jeremy Benton, NCOIC of personnel at the signal cell. “I waited
to see if it would clear, and tried drinking some water, but it didn’t
help.” U.S. Army photo
Benton said he remained calm, trying to clear the blockage on
Staff Sergeant George Nettles, noncommissioned officer in charge of
his own. When the blockage did not clear, Benton motioned to the signal cell for Special Operations Task Force – North, U.S. Division
Nettles that he was choking and unable to breathe. – North, tracks equipment for the signal cell at Contingency Operating
Both Solders stood up at the same time, and Nettles, remember- Base Speicher, Iraq, June 14, 2011. Nettles used the Heimlich maneu-
ver to save a fellow Soldier from choking during a meal on base, May
ing his training, immediately positioned himself behind Benton
30. For his selfless service and dedication to his comrades, Nettles
and performed the Heimlich maneuver, clearing the obstructing earned the title of “Ironhorse Strong” Soldier of the Week.
piece of food from Benton’s throat.
Nettles did not even hesitate or question the situation, Benton While Nettles spends most of his time working with equipment,
said. Nettles did what needed to be done, for which Benton said Benton said Nettles always welcomes younger Soldiers into his
he is grateful. office for training or advice.
Although Nettles serves as the NCOIC of the signal cell’s “He’ll take Soldiers into his office, listen to them, and give
equipment, he makes time to ensure the welfare of Soldiers serv- them advice based on his years of experience,” said Benton. “This
ing alongside him, unit leaders said, exemplifying the NCO Creed gives the Soldiers another way to communicate any issues they
by placing the needs of his Soldiers above his own. have if they need to.”
IA instructors use U.S. Army USD-N Soldiers celebrate Task Force ODIN continues “Warpigs” secure snap
techniques to train new 236 years of Army history mission traffic control points
soldiers
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 – Sgt. 1st Class Craig Zentkovich
marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other The Ivy Leaf Editor - Staff Sgt. Shawn Miller
non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. All editorial The Ivy Leaf Layout & Design – Sgt. Coltin Heller
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 1st Cavalry 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 June 17, 2011
TOA, cont’d from Pg. 3
accomplishments,” said Frost
to local provincial and ISF
leaders attending the ceremo-
ny. “Iraq is now an oasis of
hope in the Middle East.”
Frost also reminded Black
Jack Brigade Soldiers that
gains made in security and
governance can be easily lost
if Iraqi and U.S. forces do not
continue to work toward in-
creased regional stability.
“The reward for success is
always more work and greater
responsibility,” said Frost.
“The Iraqi people desire to
build on recent successes, im-
prove their quality of life, and
obtain security forces who can
defend not just their cities, but
Iraq’s borders. Therefore, I
challenge you to keep moving
forward toward a brighter des-
tination for Iraq.”
“Although the Warrior Bri-
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Quentin Johnson, 2nd AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N gade is departing, I am confi-
Colonel Malcolm Frost, left, commander of 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, and Com- dent that the Black Jack Bri-
mand Sgt. Maj. William Hain, senior enlisted leader of the brigade, case the “Warrior” Brigade colors during gade, under Col. Peeler, is no
the Transfer of Authority ceremony between the 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div., and the “Black Jack” 2nd AAB, 1st less committed to assisting and
Cavalry Division, at Contingency Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq, June 13, 2011.
supporting the governments of
“We are proud of how far their Iraqi partners saw huge the incredible progress that has Diyala and Salah ad-Din, and
Iraq has come, but we are advancements in security, gov- been made by local provincial their security forces, as they
also aware of the challenges ernance and economic areas governments, the Iraqi Army, provide enduring security and
ahead,” said Peeler. “Our within Salah ad-Din and Di- Iraqi Police and border patrol,” stability for all Iraqi People,”
Black Jack Soldiers are deter- yala provinces. said Frost. he added.
mined to work toward lasting “I am simply staggered by “You can be proud of your The people of Salah ad-Din
stability and security while and Diyala provinces can ex-
continuing to build an endur- pect the same commitment and
ing relationship between our dedication that the Soldiers
two countries.” of Warrior Brigade displayed
Peeler emphasized that his in ensuring stability and se-
unit will accomplish its advise curity within these provinces,
and assist mission by building explained Peeler.
on the work done by Warrior “We will work as one team
Brigade. to meet our shared goals and
During their time in Iraq, vision of security and stability
2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div, within these provinces,” Peeler
worked closely to assist pro- said of his Soldiers and their
vincial governments and Iraqi ISF partners.
Security Forces to further the
goals of these organizations. Soldiers from 2nd AAB, 25th Inf.
Div., join Soldiers of 2nd AAB,
Colonel Malcolm Frost, 1st Cavalry Division, and the 5th
commander of 2nd AAB, 25th Iraqi Army Division, to form the
Inf. Div., whose unit will re- color guard during the Transfer
turn to their home station at of Authority ceremony at Contin-
gency Operating Base Warhorse,
Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, Iraq, June 13, 2011.
said U.S. forces working with U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Quentin Johnson, 2nd AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
3

4. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
Iraqi instructors use
U.S. Army techniques
to train new soldiers
Spc. Terence Ewings like,” said Martinez, a native
4th AAB Public Affairs of Monte Alto, Texas.
1st Cav. Div., USD-N Ghost troopers are responsi-
ble for mentoring and oversee-
JOINT SECURITY STATION ing the Iraqi training instruc-
INDIA, Iraq – After months of tors during Operation Lion
training with their U.S. part- Leader Forge, a month-long
ners, Iraqi instructors from 3rd training exercise designed to
Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Divi- enhance the military and lead-
sion, showcased their ability ership capabilities of 2nd IA
to train and mentor fellow sol- Div. soldiers.
diers during classes near Joint In addition to the Lion
Security Station India, Iraq, Leader Forge training effort,
June 13. U.S. and Iraqi Security Forces
“Ghost” troopers from soldiers are currently prepar-
Troop D, 2nd Squadron, 7th ing for Operation Iron Lion.
Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise Operation Iron Lion is de-
and Assist, 1st Cavalry Divi- signed to demonstrate the in-
sion, observed Iraqi soldiers creased capacity of the Iraqi
conduct weapons familiariza- Army, Iraqi Police and Federal
tion techniques. Police to coordinate efforts
“We are here to advise to deter and defeat criminal
and assist the instructors, and and extremist elements across
ensure they understand how northern Iraq. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Terence Ewings, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
to teach their trainees,” said “We have a good relation- Corporal Ahmed Gased, a native of Baghdad, an infantryman assigned
Sgt. Mark Martinez, an armor ship with our American part- to 3rd Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division, reassembles an M16A4 rifle
crewman assigned to Troop D. ners and we give thanks to during a weapons familiarization and maintenance class at Joint Se-
“When we see the soldiers them for all they have taught curity Station India, Iraq, June 13, 2011. U.S. Soldiers from Troop D,
2nd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist, 1st Cav-
learn something new in class us,” said Cpl. Yaqob Kaden, an alry Division, are responsible for advising and assisting the Iraqi train-
and correctly use it in a tacti- infantryman and Iraqi instruc- ees who will graduate and become instructors.
cal situation, it lets us know tor from Baghdad.
we’re doing the right thing In addition to breaking other instructors drilled each Sergeant Christopher Di-
and our instructors are teach- down rifles and learning each of their trainees on the impor- bella, one of the initial Ghost
ing these guys what right looks of the parts, Kaden and the tance of being safe and clear- mentors for the class, said he
ing the weapons after each use. believes the unique thing about
“These are very good skills the Iraqi instructors is their
that every soldier should ability to relay the training
know,” said Kaden. “We train guidance and course material
them to remember skills and to their trainees.
use the skills wherever they “The Iraqi instructors do a
go.” very good job at using the regu-
lations and standards they have
After successfully completing to teach these trainees,” said
a weapon functions check, Pvt. Dibella, a native of Easton,
Akram Atalah, right, an infan-
Pa., and an armor crewman as-
tryman from 3rd Brigade, 2nd
Iraqi Army Division, displays the signed to Troop D. “They took
chamber of his M16 rifle so the what we initially taught them
Iraqi instructor can verify the and made it their own.”
weapon is clear during a weap-
Iraqi students are scheduled
ons familiarization and mainte-
nance class at Joint Security Sta- to graduate from Lion Leader
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Terence Ewings, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N tion India, Iraq, June 13, 2011. Forge later this month.
4

5. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
USD-N Soldiers celebrate 236 years of Army history
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD-N PAO
Lieutenant Colonel Matt Tedesco, commander, Division Special Troops Battalion, far left, and Command Sgt. Maj. Keith Moore, the battalion’s
senior enlisted leader, far right, cut the Army birthday cake with the help of the oldest and youngest Soldiers deployed to Contingency Operat-
ing Base Speicher, Iraq, at the North Dining Facility, June 14, 2011. Sergeant 1st Class Walter Richard, 57, a motor sergeant with Company C,
3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, U.S. Division – North, and Pvt. Erica Daggett, 18, a cargo specialist with 89th Transportation Company,
6th Transportation Battalion, 49th Quartermaster Brigade, participated in the tradition to mark the U.S. Army’s 236th birthday.
Spc. Andrew Ingram “For me, this was a great way to spend vice in 1970 at age 17, said he is glad
U.S. Division-North Public Affairs the Army Birthday,” Holzinger said at the to see many of the traditions he learned
finish line. “I had a lot of fun out here; about as a young Soldier still hold true in
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE it was a great confidence booster. Happy the modern Army.
SPEICHER, Iraq – “Tradition is a very birthday, Army!” “Our customs hold the military to-
important part of our service. We need to For lunch, the kitchen staff at the gether,” said the Union, Ore., native. “The
remember where we came from.” COB Speicher dining facility prepared a esprit de corps between Soldiers is very
Lieutenant Colonel Matt Tedesco, special meal of steak, lobster and shrimp important, especially in a deployed en-
commander, Division Special Troops Bat- cocktail for service members and civilians vironment like this one. We need to take
talion, 4th Infantry Division, spoke these deployed in support of Operation New pride in our history and our heritage.”
words after cutting a cake commemorat- Dawn. For dessert, the staff brought out Dagget, a resident of Eureka, Calif.,
ing the Army’s 236th birthday at Contin- an enormous birthday cake with the Army said celebrating the Army’s history and
gency Operating Base Speicher, June 14. Crest painted in icing across the center. traditions helps young Soldiers build re-
Soldiers at COB Speicher celebrated Keeping with Army tradition, the spect and pride in their service.
with two Army traditions: a fun run and a youngest and oldest Soldiers serving at “It’s awesome to take part in this tra-
ceremonial cake. COB Speicher joined Tedesco and Com- dition,” she said. “A lot of Soldiers have
The day began at 6 a.m., when Soldiers mand Sgt. Maj. Keith Moore, senior en- given their lives to protect our country
gathered in front of U.S. Division – North listed leader of DSTB, to cut the cake. since the Army started out 236 years ago,
Headquarters to participate in a 5-kilome- Private Erica Daggett, 18, a cargo spe- and it is great to be able to be a part of that
ter fun run sponsored by the 275th Com- cialist assigned to the 89th Transportation history.”
bat Sustainment Support Battalion from Company, 6th Transportation Battalion, “Continental Congress called upon the
Fort Lee, Va. 49th Quartermaster Brigade, and Sgt. 1st formation of 10 companies to support op-
Bragging rights went to the 591st Engi- Class Walter Richard, 57, a motor ser- erations in Boston in 1775,” Tedesco said.
neer Company, 326th Engineer Battalion, geant with Company C, 3rd Battalion, “Its important to take time out to recog-
as Spc. Joseph Holzinger, combat engi- 116th Cavalry Regiment, made the first nize the sacrifices our forefathers made.
neer from Seneca, S.C., finished the run incisions into the cake. It is a proud day for everyone in uniform,
first with a time of 19 minutes, 50 seconds. Richard, who began his military ser- especially those who are deployed.”
5

6. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
Soldiers, personnel practice emergency
response techniques on COB Speicher
medics were on scene very quickly. We
had security on the scene about the same
time, so we could secure it and keep any-
body else from wandering into the area,
and (preventing further casualties).”
After stabilizing the casualties, who
suffered simulated wounds ranging from
simple sprains to severe lacerations and
burns, medics moved the injured troops
away from the MWR building. Medics
and firefighters then loaded the wounded
into ambulances for transportation to the
hospital.
Event coordinators mixed in several
complicated scenarios with severely
wounded patients to test emergency re-
sponders’ skills, said Morton, who helped
organize the scenario.
“(Medics) did a great job of dealing
(with) what we had thrown at them to-
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO day,” said Morton.
Contingency Operating Base Speicher Fire Department personnel carry a Soldier “injured” in Medical staff organic to the CSH, as
a simulated mortar attack to an ambulance during a mass casualty exercise at COB Speicher, well as several medics from various units
June 13, 2011. Soldiers assigned to the Base Defense Operations Center, Company D, Division stationed on COB Speicher, unloaded and
Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, the 272nd Military Police Company, and 256th
Combat Support Hospital, U.S. Division – North, coordinated efforts during the exercise to
treated the patients upon arrival to the
refresh triage and emergency response skills and test each asset’s capabilities. CSH.
“It went very well. Everybody re-
Sgt. Coltin Heller 4th Infantry Division, personnel played a sponded quickly, so we were able to as-
109th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment large role in the training exercise – spe- sign roles before the patients rolled in,”
U.S. Division-North Public Affairs cifically Base Defense Operations Center said Sgt. Kelly Barger, noncommissioned
Soldiers assigned to Company D – who officer in charge of ground ambulance
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE provide daily force protection for troops See MASCAL, Pg. 8
SPEICHER, Iraq – Medical and emer- and civilians on COB Speicher.
gency personnel stationed on Contingen- Within minutes of the call, Soldiers
cy Operating Base Speicher rushed to the assigned to the BDOC raced to the scene
Morale, Welfare and Recreation building and cordoned off the area, with assistance
following reports of Soldiers being in- from the 272nd Military Police Company,
jured from indirect fire during a mass ca- to provide security for first responders.
sualty exercise, June 13. Elements of the fire department arrived
Medics, military police, firemen and moments later, dousing simulated fires be-
the base reactionary force responded to fore medics with the CSH moved in to as-
the call, refreshing crucial skills and tech- sess casualties.
niques should such an incident actually “Today was much better than expect-
occur. ed,” said Maj. Russell Morton, operations
Soldiers fight the way they train, said officer assigned to DSTB, 4th Inf. Div.
Col. Edward Horvath, deputy commander, “We got really good response times. The
256th Combat Support Hospital, U.S. Di-
vision – North. Surgeons and medics assigned to 256th
“MASCAL events are … infrequent, Combat Support Hospital treat a Soldier’s
which makes it all the more incumbent on simulated wounds during a mass casualty
exercise at Contingency Operating Base
us to practice and stay sharp,” said Hor- Speicher, Iraq, June 13, 2011. First respond-
vath, a native of Bay Village, Ohio. ers stabilized injured troops before transport-
Division Special Troops Battalion, ing the patients to the CSH for treatment. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
6

7. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
Task Force ODIN continues mission
Spc. Andrew Ingram Lieutenant Colonel Nicho-
USD-N Public Affairs las Arata, outgoing com-
mander, Task Force ODIN,
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- and Command Sgt. Maj.
ING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq – Mickey Somers, the task
Flags fluttered in the warm Iraqi force’s senior enlisted
leader, case the Task Force
wind as Soldiers of Task Force ODIN V colors during a
ODIN marked the next chapter Transfer of Authority cer-
in their mission to defeat the emony at Contingency Op-
improvised explosive device erating Base Speicher, Iraq,
June 14, 2011. Task Force
threat in northern Iraq, with a ODIN, a composite of multi-
Transfer of Authority ceremony ple military and civilian per-
at Contingency Operating Base sonnel, assists the mission
Speicher, Iraq, June 14. of U.S. Division – North by
providing aerial reconnais-
The outgoing Soldiers of sance focusing on defeat-
Task Force ODIN V, slated ing the threat of Improvised
to redeploy to the U.S. after a Explosive Devices.
yearlong deployment in support U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD-N PAO
of Operation Iraqi Freedom ahead,” Arata said. “We came aerial reconnaissance, surveil- New Dawn.
and Operation New Dawn, ac- into this deployment ready to lance and target acquisition for “Task Force ODIN V has
complished their mission with make a difference, and as we forces across northern Iraq. set an incredibly high standard
the utmost professionalism crossed each phase line along “We have the best Soldiers for the task force in this theater
and competence, said Lt. Col. the way, I have never been in the world here and outside and the future theaters of opera-
Nicholas Arata, outgoing com- more proud of the Soldiers of the wire,” said Tussing. “They tion,” said Garrett. “They have
mander, Task Force ODIN V. this task force.” deserve the best support we can left some pretty big shoes to
Task Force ODIN is a bat- With the ceremonial casing provide them. We understand fill but I have the utmost con-
talion-sized element comprised of the Task Force ODIN V col- the requirements, we have the fidence that Jon Tussing and
of various active duty and re- ors, Arata and Command Sgt. right people and equipment, his Soldiers are up to the chal-
serve units designed to observe, Maj. Mickey Somers, the task and we are ready to make it lenge.”
detect, identify and neutralize force’s senior enlisted leader, happen. Remember, Task Force Major Stephen Shure, op-
threats using aerial reconnais- officially ended their tenure as ODIN will always be watch- erations officer, Task Force
sance assets. the eye in the sky for Soldiers ing.” ODIN V, said he saw a visible
“It was nearly 12 months of U.S. Division – North. During the ceremony, Brig. decrease in the number of at-
ago when I said a few words Through the uncasing of the Gen. Michael Garrett, deputy tacks against U.S. and Iraqi
on a morning much like today, Task Force ODIN VI colors, chief of staff, U.S. Forces-Iraq, forces during his yearlong de-
speaking about how our Sol- Lt. Col. Jon Tussing and Com- thanked Arata and Soldiers of ployment as a part of U.S. Di-
diers had been preparing for mand Sgt. Maj. Ronald Mason Task Force ODIN V for their vision–North.
this deployment, our special assumed responsibility for the excellent work during their de- “We own the day,” said
training, and the days that lay task force’s mission to provide ployment, and expressed confi- Shure, who hails from Mer-
dence in Tussing and his team chantville, N.J. “We have been
to continue providing over- very effective in defeating
watch for service members de- much of the IED threat in Iraq
ployed in support of Operation over the past 12 months.”
The new Soldiers filling the
The Task Force ODIN Color ranks of Task Force ODIN VI
Guard stands at attention in front
must remain vigilant to keep
of a C12 Huron during a Transfer
of Authority ceremony at Contin- insurgent activity in Iraq to a
gency Operating Base Speicher, minimum, said Shure.
Iraq, June 14, 2011. During the “The fact that we are finding
ceremony, Lt. Col. Nicholas Ara-
fewer IEDs highlights the fact
ta, outgoing commander, Task
Force ODIN V, handed over re- that we are accomplishing the
sponsibility for the task force’s mission,” he said. “But just be-
mission to observe, detect, iden- cause business is down doesn’t
tify and neutralize improvised ex-
mean we aren’t vital to the mis-
plosive devices in northern Iraq
to Lt. Col. Jon Tussing and the sion. If we find one IED, it is
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD-N PAO Soldiers of Task Force ODIN VI. worth it.”
7

8. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
New police officers graduate MPSA
Spc. Angel Turner mark the scene, take photo-
4th AAB Public Affairs graphs and dust for fingerprints
1st Cav. Div., USD-N before allowing emergency re-
sponders to move into the area.
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- By exhibiting tactics and
ING SITE MAREZ, Iraq – Sol- abilities, the class showed they
diers assigned to Task Force are ready to be part of the po-
Shield, 4th Advise and Assist lice force, said Henderson, a
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, native of Newburgh, N.Y.
and Iraqi officials watched Graduates also displayed
as police academy graduates their martial arts skills and dis-
showcased newly acquired cipline with a demonstration of
skills at the Mosul Public Ser- defensive techniques during a
vice Academy, June 12. scenario where the officers pro-
During the four-week basic tected a “dignitary” from an at-
recruit training course at the tack by extremists.
MPSA, students learned the “Having a big graduation
fundamentals of operating as builds confidence,” said Hen-
police officers. derson. “It’s like their rite of
The training included police passage into the police force.”
ethics, martial arts, evidence With the completion of the
collection, crime scene secu- basic police training, Iraqi po-
rity, marksmanship and rights lice officers join others in the
of the accused. ranks already securing the peo-
“They get the building ple of Ninewa province and the
blocks of being a police officer, city of Mosul.
then they go out to their unit “These training centers
and get more on-the-job train- are the foundation of all the
ing,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Hen- training,” said staff Maj. Gen. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Turner, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
derson, commander of Task Ahmed Hassan, the Ninewa An Iraqi policeman defeats attackers during a martial arts demonstra-
tion as part of a graduation ceremony at the Mosul Public Service
Force Shield. provincial director of police.
Academy in Mosul, Iraq, June 12, 2011. Newly graduated policemen
The Iraqi policemen demon- “We’re not going to leave any exhibited their readiness to join the police force by demonstrating
strated how to collect evidence gaps for the terrorists inside or combative skills, evidence collection, marksmanship and crime scene
at a simulated crime scene, outside the city.” investigation techniques while top Iraqi leaders watched the event.
MASCAL, cont’d from Pg. 6 Fire department, base defense and mili- “Everybody has a real world mission,
tary police Soldiers integrated with med- and everybody’s working everyday to do
missions, 256th CSH. “They were triaged ics during initial triage, providing con- what they have been deployed for,” said
and the litter bearers brought them in, and stant communication to keep hospital staff Morton. “The CSH sees and treats patients
we knew right away where they were sup- informed of patients’ conditions. just like battalion medics do. The base de-
posed to go.” Emergency response and base defense fense team is normally out doing security
Medical personnel assigned to the CSH units assisted the CSH and allowed medi- missions, and the fire department does
rotate every 90 days, presenting logisti- cal personnel to practice standing operat- their job on a daily basis.”
cal challenges of streamlining operations ing procedures and test communication All the units involved in the MAS-
between changing units, in addition to the links in an effort to more efficiently and CAL took time from their daily routines
already stressful environment of treating effectively treat patients, said Col. Lisa to sharpen skills during the event. Prior
wounded Soldiers. Dumont, commander, 256th CSH. to the mission, each unit rehearsed battle
We have a good group of physicians, “It tests our communication between drills and focused emphasis on individual
and this helps them get in sync with one not only the command post and the tac- roles, said Morton.
another, said Horvath. tical operations center here, but also the “Everybody came together, identifying
In addition to testing medical readiness hospital and then our assets on post,” Du- what their training requirements would
and capabilities, troops also used the sce- mont said. be for executing (the MASCAL),” said
nario as an indicator of the level of com- Morton said coordinating all the pieces Morton. “So, as we build the scenario, we
munication between medical and emer- of the exercise presented a challenge for can make sure we achieve those training
gency response units. the DSTB. goals.”
8

9. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
‘Warpigs’ secure snap traffic control points
Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux areas of interest with our Iraqi
1st AATF Public Affairs Security Force counterparts,”
1st Inf. Div., USD-N said McNeal. “Then we’ll
check some historical rocket
KIRKUK, Iraq – “Warpigs” point-of-origin sites. This is a
Soldiers of Company D, 2nd fairly normal day for us.”
Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regi- Though ESU soldiers lead
ment, 1st Advise and Assist each mission, communication
Task Force, 1st Infantry Di- between Iraqi Police and U.S.
vision, trained Kirkuk Emer- counterparts is necessary to
gency Service Unit members ensure mission completion, he
on traffic control points on the added.
streets of downtown Kirkuk, Each mission begins with
Iraq, June 13. U.S. Soldiers and ESU leaders
“We’re right there with them reviewing plans, said McNeal. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux, 1st AATF PAO, 1st Inf. Div., USD-N
providing security and advice,” He added that coordination First Lieutenant Alonzo McNeal, a platoon leader assigned to Com-
said 1st Lt. Alonzo McNeal, an between them is important be- pany D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist
armor officer with Company cause the two most experienced Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, conducts a review with Kirkuk Emer-
gency Service Unit platoon leaders after conducting snap traffic con-
D. “We are continuing the ad- teams will also conduct TCPs trol points in downtown Kirkuk, Iraq, June 13, 2011.
vise, train and assist mission by in other areas around Kirkuk.
teaching the new ESU soldiers The partnered teams refer Capt. Josh Van Epps, execu- you have to learn not to cut
during the TCPs.” to the traffic points as “snap tive officer, Company D. “At the turns too tight; be cautious,
McNeal, who hails from TCPs,” as they can be set up this point, the ISF coordinates said Staff Sgt. Scott Colson, a
Chicago, began conducting to quickly establish security, everything and we just provide Warpigs squad leader, warning
partnered missions with Kirkuk search vehicles and move to a overwatch security and … ad- of the threats of possible impro-
Police and the ESU at the on- new location. vice.” vised explosive devices.
set of Operation New Dawn in “The purpose of the snap After patrolling the streets of Six vehicles then moved
September 2010. TCP is to allow the ESU to southern Kirkuk, the lead Iraqi into position, forming a TCP
“Today, we conducted an- deny enemy freedom of move- vehicle crew gave the signal to as ESU members and police-
other counter-indirect fire pa- ment, deter criminal activity set up the TCP. men signaled oncoming traffic
trol on three different named and disrupt indirect fire,” said When driving in the city, to stop.
Once the trucks moved into
position, Warpigs Soldiers es-
tablished security while ESU
members conducted the stop,
said Colson, who hails from
Longview, Wash.
“The ESU are going to take
the lead on everything,” said
Colson. “We’ll just provide
security. The (Lieutenant) will
answer any questions they
might have.”
ESU members inspected
several vehicles under the
watchful eyes of U.S. Soldiers
before taking down the TCP
and moving onto another area
of the city.
“I think that we did well,”
said McNeal, speaking of the
U.S. and Iraqi forces. “We were
U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux, 1st AATF PAO, 1st Inf. Div., USD-N
successful by showing our pres-
U.S. forces and the Kirkuk Emergency Service Unit conduct partnered snap traffic control points in down-
town Kirkuk, Iraq, June 13, 2011. “Snap TCPs allow security forces the ability to safely search vehicles,
ence within the city. It shows
deter weapons smuggling, apprehend violent extremists and discourage criminal activity,” said 1st Lt. the people we are still out here
Alonzo McNeal, a platoon leader with Company D, 2nd Bn., 12th Cav. Regt., 1st AATF, 1st Inf. Div. trying to protect them.”
9

10. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
U.S. Army photos by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD-N PAO
Professional BMX riders with the
Bikes Over Baghdad tour provide
entertainment and boost morale
of U.S. Division – North service
members and civilians during
a show at Contingency Operat-
ing Base Speicher, Iraq, June 11,
2011. During the show, the riders
launched themselves over military
vehicles and personnel, handed
out prizes ranging from energy
drinks to a Harley-Davidson jacket,
and thanked the audience of U.S.
troops for serving and protecting
the people of the United States.
10

11. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
Chaplain’s Corner:
‘If it doesn’t work, do something different’
Chaplain (Maj.) Paul Foreman the other otter came over. Before long, the two otters were
Family Life Chaplain playing with each other. The otters continued playing and never
U.S. Division-North returned to their listless behavior.
What happened? Why the sudden change in the otter’s behav-
Human beings are creatures of habit. From the moment we ior?
get up in the morning until we lay down to rest at night, we do Bateson was sure of one thing. As long as nothing new was
certain things like clockwork and behave in ritualistic ways. introduced, nothing new would happen.
We brush our teeth and comb our hair the same way at the The dangling paper provides an important lesson to couples
same time. We sleep on the same side of the bed. We sit at the who constantly argue over the same things and are trying to
same seat at dinner. We give little thought to our daily habits until resolve their problems in the same old way.
something unusual happens, like somebody else sitting in “our Davis said to ask yourself: “What have you been doing that
chair” for dinner. doesn’t seem to be working? What are your ‘more of the same’
So we also behave habitually in our relationships with others, behaviors?” If we asked your partner what you do in an argument
especially our significant others. that does not help them, what would they say? Would they say
Michelle Weiner Davis is a well-known marriage and fam- you nag a lot? Or would he or she say you withdraw?
ily therapist. She said that behaving habitually is usually only Ask yourself: “What would I have to do differently for my
problematic when relational difficulties arise. Couples get into partner to think I’m changing?”
the same crazy cycle over and over, and think that this will solve Whatever pigeon hole your spouse has placed you into, this is
their problems. the behavior you must change. You must surprise your partner by
When we do something different, she said, it interrupts the doing something different the next time.
negative sequence of events and forces a different outcome. The guideline is this: The next time you get into the same situ-
Most of us have experienced driving a car. The majority of the ation where you feel tempted to do the same old thing, do some-
time you do not have to think about driving at all. You can carry thing different. No matter how weird or crazy it might seem, do
on a conversation, sightsee and yell at the kids all at the same something you have never done before.
time. There’s an old saying, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” But now
However, when something unexpected occurs, like a dog you know the other saying…“If what you’re doing doesn’t work,
jumps out in front of you, you immediately become conscious of do something different.” Try it out the next time you sense things
the road and you are driving attentively once again. Unforeseen are starting to go south in your relationship and let me know what
happenings on the road put us in an alert state. happens.
Similarly, unforeseen happenings in our marriage and relation-
ships wake us up and shift us out of auto-pilot. So, Davis said, if
what you are doing does not seem to be working, do something U.S. Division-North
different. Social Media Sites
The problem, sometimes, is that we have become so predict-
able to each other in our arguments. We do the same things over Click on the link be-
and over, at the same time, and in the same location much of the
low to visit the
time.
But when a small change is introduced, it is amazing what can USD-N Flickr page
happen. In fact, the more inflexible you become in your argu- to view more pho-
ments, the more perceptible any small change will be. tos of U.S. Soldiers
Gregory Bateson, a renowned anthropologist, was once asked deployed in support
to observe two otters at a zoo. The zoo officials were concerned
because the otters had become listless stopped playing like they
of Operation New
used to. Dawn.
After several days of observing the otters, Bateson had an
idea. He took a piece of paper, attached a string to the end of it www.flickr.com/photos/
and dangled it where the otters rested.
the4ID
After a while, one otter spotted the paper curiously and then
11

12. The Ivy Leaf June 17, 2011
Hey Doc: Is it too late to get my medications?’
Lt. Col. Mark Krueger service will stop. CARE Mail Order Pharmacy
Pharmacy Consultant If you take medication on a regular Program (TMOP).”
Surgeon, USD-N basis, now is the time to get resupplied. 4. Register if you have not
During pre-deployment processing, you logged on previously.
“Hey Doc: I’ve heard that the post of- probably received six months worth of
5. Log in with username and
fice is closing soon and I haven’t reordered medication with one refill on file.
my medications yet. I also heard that the Whether you used your refill prescrip- password.
selection at the base pharmacy is getting tion or not, it is important to count how 6. Go to “My Prescriptions” at
smaller. I’m getting concerned since I will much medicine you have remaining. Be- upper left corner of screen.
still be here for a few more months and I cause block leave can be 30 days, it takes 7. First link is “Order Refills.”
really need my medication. What should I some days to reintegrate into the home 8. Update your mailing ad-
do?” health care system. dress to ensure meds are sent
-Signed, Staff Sgt. I.M. Pokey Since there can be unforeseen delays directly.
in the redeployment process, the rule of
Dear Staff Sgt. Pokey, thumb is always to have approximately 60 If you can’t get online, call the Phar-
Looking around our bases, we are often days worth of your medicines beyond your macy Operations Center at DSN 312-471-
reminded that we are in an expeditionary estimated redeployment date. Reordering 8274 or commercial 1-866-275-4732,
environment. Folks are packing up to go these additional medicines now will make option 8. They provide friendly service
home, T-walls are moving, and base popu- your transition much less stressful. and are open 24 hours a day.
lations are dropping. Reorder your medications from the If you need another prescription,
Services are being reduced and, fairly TRICARE Mail order pharmacy three contact your primary care provider. Your
soon, getting your groove on at weekly months prior to base closure. battalion surgeon or physician assistant
Salsa night will be history as well. These Here’s how: can send a new prescription to the TMOP.
are positive indications that we are closer 1. Log into AKO. Under “Self- It will arrive in about four weeks.
to leaving Iraq. Service,” click on “My Medical.” Please stop dragging your feet, Staff
Some changes are merely annoying, 2. Scroll down halfway to “De- Sgt. Pokey. You do not want to be out of
like losing your favorite flavor of ice ployment Maintenance Medica- any critical medicine.
cream at the dining facility. However, a Get set with your medications, and
tion Supply.”
more significant loss will occur approxi- keep those Task Force Ironhorse questions
mately 45 days prior to base closure - mail 3. Click on the link for “TRI- coming!
12