Good News From The War On Terror 12/21

Coalition forces capture two Special Groups leaders, detain three other suspects

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces captured two suspected Special Groups leaders and detained three other suspects during operations to disrupt criminal element networks early this morning in the Al Mashru area, south of Baghdad and the Kadhimiyah area, west of Baghdad. The targeted individual reportedly trained criminal splinter group elements to perform attacks on Coalition and Iraqi forces. He allegedly facilitated the training of numerous criminals in the use of explosively formed penetrators and improvised explosive devices. The targeted individual was also reportedly an associate of several other senior-level criminal element leaders who were involved in attacks on Coalition forces. Intelligence led ground forces to the target area where they captured the wanted individual and detained one other suspected criminal without incident. In another operation, Coalition forces targeted a separate individual located in the Kadhimiyah area, who was a suspected Special Groups criminal element senior leader. He was allegedly responsible for facilitating the supply of explosives for use in explosively formed penetrator attacks. The wanted individual reportedly controlled a group of criminal element cells operating in Baghdad. He was also reportedly an associate of several other senior-level criminal element leaders who were involved in attacks on Coalition forces. Intelligence led ground forces to the target area where they captured the wanted individual and detained the two other suspected criminals without incident.

 

Al-Qaeda networks disrupted; one terrorist killed, 19 suspects detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 19 suspected terrorists during operations Wednesday and today targeting al-Qaeda networks in central and northern Iraq. During coordinated operations in Baghdad Wednesday and today, two wanted individuals were detained for their involvement in the al-Qaeda in Iraq media and propaganda network. The individuals are also reportedly associates of a suspected terrorist, who was detained by Coalition forces Dec. 9 for his role in the same network. The ground force discovered caches of media and propaganda materials during both operations. In addition to the wanted individuals, the ground force detained four suspected terrorists Wednesday. During an operation in Tarmiyah today, Coalition forces detained a wanted individual believed to be closely associated with an al-Qaeda in Iraq leader for the network operating north of Baghdad. The wanted individual is reportedly responsible for facilitating the flow of information to senior terrorists in the network, which is responsible for car-bombing and improvised explosive device attacks, as well as extortion, intimidation, weapons trafficking and the facilitation of foreign terrorists. In addition to the wanted individual, the ground force detained one suspected terrorist on site. Coalition forces conducted an operation in Kirkuk today targeting an alleged al-Qaeda in Iraq cell leader for the network operating in the city. The targeted individual is reportedly involved in the planning and execution of terrorist operations in the province. Reports also indicate he is associated with Abu Harith, the former leader of the Kirkuk terrorist network who was killed during a Coalition forces operation Nov. 21. During the operation, an armed man emerged from the target building and displayed hostile behavior. Perceiving hostile intent, Coalition forces engaged, killing him. The engagement resulted in an explosion, indicating the individual may have also been armed with explosive material. One suspected terrorist was also detained on site. In Mosul, Coalition forces detained seven suspected terrorists today while targeting an individual believed to be involved in an illegal terrorist court system and responsible for facilitating the storage and maintenance of weapons caches in the area. During an operation south of Hawijah Wednesday, Coalition forces detained three suspects while targeting associates of the terrorist network in Kirkuk.

 

Coalition forces capture Special Groups leader, disrupt criminal element network

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces captured a suspected Special Groups leader during operations to disrupt criminal element networks early Monday in the Baghdad area. The targeted individual reportedly trained criminal elements to perform attacks on Coalition and Iraqi forces. He allegedly facilitated the training of criminals in activities including explosively formed penetrators, improvised explosive devices, operational security and computer security training. The individual was also reportedly an associate of several other senior-level criminal element leaders who were involved in attacks on Coalition forces. Intelligence led ground forces to the target area, where they captured the targeted individual without incident.

"Dingy" Harry Reid-Flip-Flopper

Mr. "The War is Lost" Reid, the man who proclaimed the troop surge failed, has now changed his mind. He now says the "surge has helped".

The president said, "Let's send some more troops over there, and that will give the Iraqis the time to take care of themselves." We sent other troops over there, and there are a lot of reasons the surge certainly hasn't hurt. It's helped. I recognize that.

So which is it Harry Reid? Did the surge fail, or did it help? Or, are you just too stupid to know the difference?

SecDef Gates Criticizes Congress On Lack Of War Funding

This nonsense with war funding is getting old. As soon as the Dems realize we are not pulling out of Iraq, the easier it will be for them. We have troops in a war zone and the idiots in Congress want to play games with them.

Gates also criticized Congress' choppy funding for the wars. He said while the Pentagon welcomed the recent appropriation, it is less money than needed. He said no furlough notices for Defense Department employees will be issued, a possibility that loomed until Congress passed the spending bill. But Gates said that prospect will reappear in a few months unless Congress supplies more money. He said the military may run out of money by spring. That "requires us to make short term plans and short terms solutions," he said. "I hope we don't have to have a replay this spring," Gates said. Paying for the wars in Iraq in Afghanistan in fits and starts undermines military planning and risks the gains made by American troops over the past year, he said during a Pentagon news conference. Congress recently provided $70 billion for combat operations, only half of what the President requested. On Iraq, Gates was cautiously optimistic about further troop reductions beyond those already planned, but he declined to attach a specific number to that projection. "We obviously want to sustain the gains that we have already made," Gates said.

Oldest U.S. WWI Veteran Dies At The Age Of 109

J. Russell Coffey was one of only three WWI veterans still alive; until Thursday. I bet he would be an interesting person to have a conversation with. I appreciate hearing stories from people that have lived a long, full life.

My great-grandfather was a WWI vet, but he died when I was about 8 years old. During WWI, he had not been drafted, so every month he would go to the local draft office and ask why he hadn't been drafted yet until finally they took him. That was definitely a different time.

J. Russell Coffey, the oldest known surviving U.S. veteran of World War I, has died. The retired teacher, one of only three U.S. veterans from the "war to end all wars," was 109. Coffey died Thursday at the Briar Hill Health Campus in North Baltimore, where he had lived for the past four or five years, said Gaye Boggs, nursing director at the nursing home. No cause of death has been determined, she said Friday. His health began failing in October. More than 4.7 million Americans joined the military from 1917-1918. Coffey never saw combat because he was still in basic training when the war ended. The two remaining U.S. veterans are Frank Buckles, 106, of Charles Town, W.Va.; and Harry Richard Landis, 108, of Sun City Center, Fla., according to the Veterans Affairs Department. In addition, John Babcock, 107, of Spokane, Wash., served in the Canadian army and is the last known Canadian veteran of the war. Coffey once confided to his daughter, Betty Jo Larsen, that he wished people would remember his contributions rather than his old age. "He told me 'even a prune can get old,'" she said last spring. She died in September. Coffey had enlisted in the Army while he was a student at Ohio State University in October 1918, a month before the Allied powers and Germany signed a cease-fire agreement. He was discharged a month after the war ended. His two older brothers fought overseas, and he was disappointed at the time that the war ended before he shipped out. But he told The Associated Press in April 2007: "I think I was good to get out of it." Born Sept. 1, 1898, Coffey played semipro baseball in Akron, earned a doctorate in education from New York University, taught in high school and college and raised a family. He delivered newspapers as a youngster and would read the paper to immigrants, his daughter said. "That was the beginning of him being a teacher," she said. Coffey returned to Ohio State University after he left the Army and received two degrees there. He said he loved teaching. "I could see results," he said. "I could see improvement." He taught junior high and high school in Phelps, Ky., and Findlay. He then taught physical education at Bowling Green State University from 1948 until 1969. He had a remarkable memory and was independent, his daughter said. He drove his car until he was 104, and lived in his own home until a year later. He was a swimmer and credited healthy eating and exercise for his longevity. His wife, Bernice, whom he married in 1921, died in 1993.

Good News From The War On Terror 12/19-20

Coalition forces capture Special Groups leader, disrupt criminal element network

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces captured a suspected Special Groups leader during operations Wednesday in the northern Baghdad area. The targeted individual was the Special Groups criminal element leader for Diyala Province and oversaw logistics and operations in the area. He was reportedly responsible for storing weapons and procuring lethal aid, including explosively formed penetrators, to support Special Group criminal attacks on Iraqi and Coalition forces. The targeted individual used funding and training to support the criminal activities he commanded. The suspected criminal is also reportedly an associate of several other senior-level Special Groups members from Diyala to Baghdad, who were involved in attacks on Coalition forces.

 

Coalition forces capture Special Groups criminal element leader, detain three suspects

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces captured a Special Groups leader and detained two other suspected criminals during operations to disrupt criminal element networks early Sunday in the Baghdad area. The targeted individual reportedly supplied various weapons, such as explosively formed penetrators, rocket propelled grenades, improvised explosive devices and mortars, to various Special Group criminal elements to aid in attacks on Coalition forces. He was coordinating criminal cells throughout the Diyala province. In addition, he was reportedly an associate of several other senior-level criminal element leaders who were involved in attacks on Coalition forces. Intelligence led ground forces to the target area, where they captured the targeted individual and detained the two other suspects without incident. During the operation, ground forces also discovered two assault rifles, two pistols, two machine guns, night vision goggles and large amounts of American and Iranian currency.

 

MND-N Soldiers find atrocity site, torture complex and weapons caches during Operation Iron Reaper

TIKRIT, Iraq – During Operation Iron Reaper, Multi-National Division – North Soldiers killed 24 extremists, detained 37 suspects, and discovered an atrocity site, torture complex and nine weapons caches north of Muqdadiyah Dec. 8-11. Intelligence provided by Iraqi tips led U.S. troops to a suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq safe haven and operating bases. Evidence of murder, torture, and intimidation against local villagers was found throughout the area. During the operation, U.S. Forces and Iraqi Security Forces were involved in multiple engagements with groups of armed men. They discovered what appeared to be a detention facility. As they continued to clear the area, they found several bodies and eventually uncovered 26 human remains in multiple mass graves next to execution sites. In the same area a torture complex was found, consisting of three detention facilities with one doubling as both a headquarters building and torture facility. The buildings contained chains on the walls and ceilings, a bed still hooked up to an electrical system, and several blood-stained items. U.S. Forces also located and destroyed nine weapons caches anti-aircraft weapons, sniper rifles, more than 65 machine guns and pistols, 50 grenades, a surface-to-air missile launcher and platform, 98 personnel mines, 170 pipe bombs, 130 pounds of homemade explosives, 21 rocket propelled grenades, numerous mortar tubes and rounds.

 

Dec. 18 airpower summary

 

Dec. 19 airpower summary

Sr. Al-Qaeda Theologian Tells Followers To End Jihad

He even calls for a special Islamic court to try Bin Laden and al-Zawahri.

One of Al Qaeda's senior theologians is calling on his followers to end their military jihad and saying the attacks of September 11, 2001, were a "catastrophe for all Muslims." In a serialized manifesto written from prison in Egypt, Sayyed Imam al-Sharif is blasting Osama bin Laden for deceiving the Taliban leader, Mullah Omar, and for insulting the Prophet Muhammad by comparing the September 11 attacks to the early raids of the Ansar warriors. The lapsed jihadist even calls for the formation of a special Islamic court to try Osama bin Laden and his old comrade Ayman al-Zawahri. The disclosures from Mr. Sharif, also known as Dr. Fadl and Abd al-Qadir ibn Abd al-Aziz, have already opened a rift at the highest levels of Al Qaeda. The group's deputy, Ayman al-Zawahri, a former associate of the defecting theologian in Egypt, personally mocked him last month in a video, remarking that he was unaware Egyptian prisons had fax machines. Meanwhile, leading Western analysts are saying the defection of Mr. Sharif indicates the beginning of the end for Al Qaeda.

Coming Soon!

Thanks to the inaction of our government regarding illegal immigration.

Grandma Got Ran Over By A Reindeer

Indeed she did.

Penny Patch Produce & Garden Center had an intruder Monday morning. It was actually a doe - a deer, a female deer - that ran across Fleming Drive and jumped through the store's front window. "We've been here about 26 years, and we've had break-ins but never anything like this," said David Rakestraw, who owns the store with his brother. He said the deer hit their cashier, Carol Stroupe, who is somewhere in her 60s, as it crashed through the window. Stroupe was OK but a little bruised up. She went home early, but before she left, she told Rakestraw and his brother, Chris, she was going to tell her grandson, "Grandma got run over by a reindeer."

Good News From The War On Terror 12/18

Concerned Local Citizens turn over large cache

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq – Concerned Local Citizens handed over a large cache to Soldiers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment near Al Bawi, Iraq, Dec. 16. The seizure of the cache came just one day after Company A Soldiers and CLCs cleared the main route into Al Bawi from the north in a combined operation. “This cache find is another event that proves the Concerned Local Citizens are part of the team and willing to fight the fight to get rid of extremists,” said Maj. John Cushing, from Rochester, Mich., the operations officer for the 1-15th Inf. Regt. The cache consisted of 100 land mines, two 105 mm projectiles, two 120 mm mortars, two 120 mm projectiles, two 152 mm projectiles, 100 pounds of propellant, 7.62 mm ammunition and an explosively-formed projectile casing. Soldiers from Company A worked with CLCs to clear the main route into Al Bawi from the north Dec. 13 and 14. During the clearing operation, Soldiers helped the CLCs establish checkpoints along the route from which locals could maintain security in the region. Company A Soldiers were patrolling the newly cleared route and checking on their new partners when CLCs brought the contents of the cache to one of the recently established checkpoints. Capt. Will Clark, from Wheeling, Ill., the Company A commander, said the route was dominated by al-Qaeda in Iraq elements in the Al Bawi vicinity and the western side of the Tigris River that commonly fired upon the route with small arms and indirect fire assets.

 

Marne Roundup forces discover, destroy enemy tunnel network

BAGHDAD – A network of underground tunnels used by al-Qaeda in Iraq to store weapons, hide fighters and launch attacks against U.S. forces was discovered and subsequently destroyed by Coalition Forces Dec. 16. It was the first known find of a tunnel system in the Multi-National Division – Center area. Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, assigned to the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, found the tunnels as they were searching an area northwest of Iskandariyah, along the Euphrates River. Immediately prior, they discovered a cache of improvised explosive device components and were investigating when the tunnels were unearthed. The tunnels provided access to numerous al-Qaeda fighting positions. Inside the tunnels were several DSHKA rounds, leading troops to speculate the tunnels may have served as enemy firing positions for anti-aircraft guns, as well as hiding places for AQI fighters after they launched attacks. Soldiers called in Coalition air teams to destroy the tunnels. After an initial engagement with one Hellfire missile and three rockets, heavier air support was called in, and dropped two bombs on the target, completely collapsing the network. U.S. and Iraqi Soldiers are in the area as part of Operation Marne Roundup, the latest Coalition offensive to target extremists in MND-C. The operation launched the morning of Dec. 15.  As soon as the area is secured, U.S. troops will begin construction of a new security outpost, Patrol Base Khidr.

 

Iraqi Forces, U.S. Special Forces detain extremist leader and corrupt officer in separate operations

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detained an extremist criminal leader and a corrupt Iraqi Police official believed to support terrorist activities in two separate raids Dec. 13. In Baghdad, Iraqi and U.S. Special Forces detained a suspected extremist believed to be responsible for improvised explosive device and explosively formed penetrator attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces.  He is also thought to be involved in the targeting of Coalition informants for attack. In As Sadiyah, Iraqi Security Forces and U.S. Special Forces detained an Iraqi Police Captain suspected of corruption.  The detainee is believed to support al-Qaeda in Iraq activities by facilitating early warning and intelligence operations for the terrorist organization.

 

Coalition forces target foreign terrorist facilitators; seven detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces detained seven suspected terrorists during operations Tuesday targeting al-Qaeda networks in central and northern Iraq. During an operation in Bayji, Coalition forces captured a wanted individual allegedly involved in a foreign terrorist facilitation network in the area. The wanted individual is reportedly a close associate of several senior facilitators, to include one who was detained Dec. 10 for providing supplies and finances for use in attacks against Coalition forces. In addition to the wanted individual, two suspected terrorists were detained on site. Coalition forces captured another wanted individual involved in foreign terrorist facilitation during an operation in Mosul. Reports indicate he is tied to numerous senior terrorists, including an al-Qaeda in Iraq leader for the network north of Mosul. The individual identified himself to the ground force and was subsequently detained. East of Samarra, three suspected terrorists were detained during an operation targeting al-Qaeda members associated with the network in Salah ad Din.

 

Coalition forces capture Special Groups leader, 12 detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces captured a suspected Special Groups leader and detained 11 other suspects during operations early today in the Aziziyah area, southeast of Baghdad. The targeted individual reportedly received special weapons training in order to train Special Group criminal element members for attacks on Iraqi and Coalition forces. He is believed to have specialized in mortar and rocket attacks. The wanted suspect was also reportedly an associate of several other senior-level criminal element leaders who were involved in attacks on Coalition forces. Intelligence led ground forces to the target area where they captured the targeted individual and detained the 11 other suspected criminals without incident.

 

Several militants killed during Afghan, Coalition forces operations in Helmand

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Several militants were killed during a precision-guided munitions strike Monday in Helmand Province targeting a Taliban command and control network. Coalition forces conducted a precision-guided munitions strike in the Kajaki District of Helmand Province targeting a Taliban commander believed to be facilitating the movement of foreign fighters and suicide bombers throughout the area.  During the course of operations, Coalition forces targeted several militants outside a compound and employed precision-guided munitions, which killed the militants, including one militant reported to be a Taliban commander.  In a follow-on operation, Afghan and Coalition forces conducted a search of compounds in the Kajaki District of Helmand Province for individuals reported to be associated with the militants targeted during the strike. While conducting the operation, Afghan and Coalition forces, using small-arms, killed several armed militants who posed a credible threat to the combined force.  During a subsequent engagement on the compound, the combined force was fired upon by a group of militants barricaded in a building. The combined force employed grenades, killing the militants barricaded inside. There were no immediate indications of injuries or deaths to civilians not taking part in hostilities. Continuing their search of the compounds, the combined force recovered several weapons and explosives, which were destroyed in-place to prevent further use by extremist forces.

 

ANSF stop insurgents placing IEDs in Kandahar Province

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Forces, along with Coalition forces, neutralized a group of insurgents yesterday who were in the process of placing an improvised explosive device on a road near the village of Pada, Shah Wali Kot District, Kandahar Province. An Afghan National Army unit immediately responded when it observed a group of five insurgents placing the IED along the side of the road.  Upon receiving accurate, effective fire from ANA and Coalition force units, the insurgents immediately sought cover.  ANSF called for air support and dropped ordnance on the suspected IED location.  A secondary explosion, caused by the detonation of the IED, confirmed the weapon was set to injure or kill ANSF or civilians in the area who use the road between the villages of Lwar Byal, Hotak and Alekozi.  Insurgents were killed in the explosion. After ANSF cleared the area, they continued their reconnaissance patrol, discovering four additional roadside IEDs.  ANSF quickly neutralized the IEDs, making the area safe for residents in the area.

 

ANSF eliminates several insurgents in Oruzgan

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Forces, assisted by Coalition forces, engaged in a day-long battle eliminating several insurgents near the village of Deh Rawod, Tarin Kowt District, Oruzgan Province Dec. 17. The ANSF-led force was conducting a security patrol in the area when a group of insurgents attacked with rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire.  ANSF quickly returned fire, putting the enemy on the defensive. Sixteen insurgents were spotted relocating to a nearby structure where they reengaged the combined force with small-arms and rocket fire.  The ANSF returned small-arms and mortar fire and called in close-air support, effectively eliminating the enemy fighting position.

 

 Dec. 17 airpower summary

John Edwards Cheating On Cancer-Stricken Wife? *UPDATED W/ Love Child*

Ok, so it's from the National Enquirer.

Presidential candidate John Edwards is caught in a shocking mistress scandal that could wreck his campaign, The NATIONAL ENQUIRER has learned exclusively.

Sources have come forward to charge that the "other woman" previously worked on Edwards' campaign and followed the 54-year-old candidate on trips across the U.S.

A source close to the woman, whose name is being withheld by The NATIONAL ENQUIRER, says that she confessed to having an affair in phone calls and emails, saying that her work with Edwards soon exploded into romance. The shocking allegation — if proven true — could devastate the Democratic hopeful's campaign, especially because John's devoted wife Elizabeth is locked in a desperate battle with breast cancer.

"The affair started about 18 months ago," a friend says the woman confessed to her. "When they met at a bar, sparks flew immediately.

"She never expected it would turn sexual since John is married and is running for President. But it soon did — and she fell for him."

 

But, there may be some truth to it. Slate links the Enquirer article with a HuffPo post.

A set of short documentary film "webisodes" made for former Sen. John Edwards prior to his presidential candidacy continues to weave a curious web, this time involving the filmmaker.

The videos, which cost Edwards' One America Committee $114,461, were produced in 2006 by an aspiring actress/producer named Rielle Hunter, who proposed the idea to the senator in a bar in New York City. The objective was to give viewers - and presumably voters - an authentic look at the North Carolinian. But shortly after Edwards declared his White House aspirations, the footage all but disappeared from public view.

 

It's all about family values.

 

***UPDATE 10/11/07 1:01am***

Big surprise...Edwards denies the affair.

Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards says a tabloid story that he had an extramarital affair is untrue.

"The story is false. It's completely untrue, ridiculous," Edwards told reporters Thursday after he was asked about the National Enquirer report.

The supermarket newspaper reported that the former North Carolina senator had an affair with a woman who worked on his campaign. It did not identify the woman, nor did it name the source of the information for its report.

Edwards said the story was simply "made up" and that he loves his wife, Elizabeth, who is being treated for an incurable form of cancer.

"I've been in love with the same women for 30-plus years and as anybody who's been around us knows, she's an extraordinary human being, warm, loving, beautiful, sexy and as good a person as I have ever known," he said. "So the story's just false."

 

  ***UPDATE 12/18/07 11:55PM***

The "other woman", Rielle Hunter, is preggers.  She says the father is some yahoo named Andrew Young. However; she has been telling her closest friends that Edwards is the father. The National Enquirer article on the website has disappeared. Here is an excerpt from Dan Reihl via AOSHQ.

The NATIONAL ENQUIRER's political bombshell comes just weeks after Edwards emphatically denied having an affair with Rielle Hunter, who formerly worked on his campaign.

But The ENQUIRER has now confirmed not only that Rielle is pregnant, but she is also living in Chapel Hill, N.C. in a gated community, just a few streets away from Andrew Young, who has been a key official in Edwards' campaign.

Young has been in charge of looking after Hunter, according to sources, and she has been careful to stay out of sight during Edwards' campaign. A former Director of Operations for Edwards' campaign, Young's last official position with the campaign was North Carolina Finance Director.

He left that job about a month ago — nearly the same time Rielle relocated from the New Jersey area to Chapel Hill.

In a bizarre twist, Young, a 41-year-old married man with young children, now claims HE is the father of Reille's baby.

But others are skeptical about his claim and talk of a political cover up is heating up.

Reille, when contacted in person by the NATIONAL ENQUIRER, denied that she was Reille Hunter. Later, she hired a lawyer and issued a statement, saying that Young is the father.

But a source close to the 43-year-old divorcee says Rielle has told a far different story privately.

"Rielle told me she had a secret affair with Edwards. When she found out that she was pregnant she said he was the father."

***UPDATED 08/08/08***

John Edwards Admits He Cheated On Cancer-Stricken Wife

Good News From The War On Terror 12/17

Extremists lose ground in Arab Jabour

BAGHDAD – Coalition Forces discovered two weapons caches in Hawr Rajab and Adwaniyah Dec. 11. In Hawr Rajab, Soldiers with 5th Battalion, 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, located a rocket weapons cache while conducting a patrol west of Patrol Base Stone. The cache consisted of 21 60 mm mortars and one 107 mm rocket. The cache was destroyed via a controlled detonation by an explosive ordnance disposal team. In Adwaniyah, Soldiers from Battery B, 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd BCT, 3rd Inf. Div., located another cache while conducting a patrol north of Patrol Base W-1. The cache consisted of two 15-pound bags of unknown bulk explosives, one 60 mm mortar tube, five rocket-propelled grenade rounds, one 120 mm mortar, six 80 mm mortars, one 100 mm mortar, two 9 mm handguns, one 7.62 sniper rifle, 50 pounds of 7.62 rounds, two boxes of DSHKA heavy machine gun rounds and one M-240B machine gun.  An EOD team conducted a controlled detonation of the munitions. The M-240B, two 9 mm hand guns and sniper rifle were taken to PB W-1 for investigation.

 

MND-Center Soldiers secure caches, detain 2 suspected AQI operatives

BAGHDAD – Coalition Forces in Arab Jabour and Al Buaytha detained two suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq members and destroyed four weapons caches Dec. 14. First Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division has been conducting increased offensive operations against AQI for the past week.   The four caches found Dec. 14 included anti-tank mines, a variety of mortars, homemade explosives, mortar tubes, copper wire and numerous boxes of ammunition. Additionally, Concerned Local Citizens identified two Iraqi males as members of al-Qaeda. The suspected al-Qaeda members were detained by the CLCs and turned over to 1-30th Inf. Regt. Soldiers at Patrol Base Murray.

 

Arrests dent extremist cash flow

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad forces arrested two men suspected of financing extremist activities and another suspected of killing Coalition Soldiers in the Doura region of the Rashid District Dec. 14. While on a routine census mission, Troop A, 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Inf. Div., arrested a middle-aged man believed to be an al-Qaeda financier an East Rashid neighborhood. The man allegedly had numerous al-Qaeda extremists routinely visit his home and pay him for anti-Coalition and anti-Iraqi activities. In an early morning raid in western Doura, “Warriors” from Destroyer Company, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Inf. Div, attached to Task Force Dragon, detained another man sources believe works for AQI as a financier and emplacer of improvised explosive devices. Additionally, Soldiers from Baker Company, 2-12 Inf., captured a man who is believed to have attacked Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces, shot at aircraft and is allegedly responsible for the deaths of four Soldiers.

 

Coalition forces disrupt al-Qaeda operations; five terrorists killed, 11 detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed five terrorists and detained 11 suspects during operations Sunday and Monday targeting al-Qaeda in central and northern Iraq. During continued efforts to disrupt terrorist operations in the Diyala River Valley Monday, Coalition forces conducted an operation north of Muqdadiyah targeting associates of an al-Qaeda in Iraq cell leader operating in Shirween.  Reports indicate the target building is used as a terrorist safe house and associated with the group recently involved in several fire fights with Coalition forces.   During the operation, Coalition forces confirmed the presence of the wanted individuals in the target area and supporting aircraft engaged the armed men.  The ground force was then engaged by enemy fire and returned fire in self-defense.  Once the enemy fire ceased, the ground force assessed five terrorists were killed during the operation.  One suspected terrorist was also detained on site. In Mosul, Coalition forces captured a wanted individual believed to be the former leader of the terrorist network operating in Fallujah, and an associate of the terrorist network in Karmah. The individual reportedly has close ties with the leader of the network, who has a history of involvement in extremist activity, and a reputation for fear and intimidation practices among the local populace. In addition to the wanted individual, the ground force detained one suspected terrorist. During operations south of Samarra and southwest of Hawaji, Coalition forces detained five suspected terrorists while targeting associates of the networks operating north of Baghdad and in Hawija. South of Balad Sunday, Coalition forces captured a wanted individual believed to be directly associated with the leader for the al-Qaeda network operating north of Baghdad.  The network is responsible for car-bombing and improvised explosive device attacks in the area and is involved in extortion, intimidation, weapons trafficking and the facilitation of foreign terrorists.  In addition to the wanted individual, the ground force detained two suspects on site without incident.

 

Coalition forces identify dead, detained Taliban leaders

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Coalition forces positively identified two Taliban leaders who, in recent weeks, have been killed and one leader who has been detained. Mullah Faizullah, a Taliban commander and the Taliban’s deputy shadow governor for Helmand Province and Mullah Tor Jan, a mid-level Taliban commander, were both killed during airstrikes in the southern part of the country. Mullah Morad Khan was detained during a Nov. 23 operation in the Shajoy district of Zabul Province. Faizullah was a Taliban commander and the Taliban’s deputy shadow governor for Helmand Province. He was believed to have been associated with an unsuccessful missile attack on a Coalition forces’ helicopter.  Faizullah was also the head of the Taliban commission for Helmand province and associated with foreign weapons facilitators and the illegal transport of weapons systems into Afghanistan.  Coalition forces targeted a building on a compound in the Musa Qaleh district of Helmand Province where Mullah Faizullah and several insurgents were hiding during the course of operations, Dec. 9.  Precision munitions were used to destroy the building Faizullah was in killing him as well as the other insurgents. Jan was a mid-level Taliban commander responsible for the Musa Qaleh district who was actively involved in insurgent operations in several other districts as well.  He was believed to have planned and led attacks against Afghan and Coalition forces in Musa Qaleh and Now Zad districts.  He was also involved with weapons and narcotics smuggling. Coalition forces targeted a building on a compound in the Musa Qaleh district of Helmand province where Jan and several insurgents were hiding during the course of operations, Dec. 7.  Precision munitions were used and the building Jan was in was destroyed, killing him as well as other insurgents. Multiple secondary explosions were reported indicating the presence of a sizeable weapons cache.  Khan was detained by Coalition forces during an operation to disrupt Taliban foreign fighter and weapons facilitation operations in the area. Khan is a Taliban commander who is responsible for the placement of improvised explosive devices and planning attacks on Coalition forces in collaboration with several other Taliban commanders in the Zabul area.  Khan had nearly 100 insurgents under his command, who conducted attacks along Highway 1 near Qalat. Documents found during the course of the operation indicate Khan was an associate of Mullah Shafiq Asif, a former Zabul Taliban commander detained by Afghan and Coalition forces during a May 22 operation.  The documents include personal letters and multiple “safe passage” notes including one signed by Mullah Shafiq that states, “To all Taliban and mujahaddin, Mullah Morad Khan is our agent, please do not give him a hard time.”

 

ANSF find weapons caches, suspected insurgents in Nangarhar

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Forces, assisted by Coalition forces, arrested two suspected Taliban insurgents in Nangarhar Province and discovered two weapons caches during routine security patrols in the villages of Ragham and Desarak also in Nangarhar Province, Dec. 14. ANSF forces planned and executed the missions after receiving credible information of possible ammunition caches in their area.  The ANSF located and searched the suspected area where they found and recovered approximately 70 85mm recoilless rifle rounds in the Rodat District village of Ragham. In Desarak Village, Achin District, Coalition forces confiscated several rocket-propelled grenades, 82mm mortar rounds, and 85mm recoilless rifle rounds. Afghan citizens receive compensation for their efforts through the Small Rewards Program when they facilitate the recovery and turn-in of armament caches.  Afghan National Police arrested two suspected insurgents in Nangarhar Province in other operations.  The ANSF, with Coalition assistance, arrested two men with possible ties to the transfer of improvised explosive devices, suicide bombers and associated materials in the province. The detainees are suspected of being members of the Taliban, operating as facilitators in the emplacement and detonation of improvised explosive devices and facilitating the movement of suicide bombers.

 

Dec. 16 airpower summary

Falcons Players Concerned About Making Statement, Not Winning

With the dismal record the Atlanta Falcons have this year, they should be concentrating on winning football games. Instead; they are more concerned about making a statement in support of Michael "dog killer" Vick. Five players have been fined a total of $47,500 for uniform violations. It's unbelievable that these people went to college, and yet, are so stupid.

Five Atlanta Falcons players have been fined a total of $47,500 by the NFL for uniform violations that stemmed from demonstrations of their support for banished quarterback Michael Vick during the team's loss to the New Orleans Saints on Dec. 10. Several hours before the game, Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison for his role in an illegal dogfighting ring that was centered on property he owned in Virginia. Cornerbacks DeAngelo Hall and Chris Houston, wide receiver Roddy White and tight end Alge Crumpler each were fined $10,000. Wide receiver Joe Horn was fined $7,500. It is not yet known if any of the players will appeal the fines. Hall brandished a poster of Vick as he ran onto the field for pregame introductions. He later taped the poster to the back of the Falcons' bench, but it was subsequently removed by a member of the club's public relations department. Both Hall and Crumpler wore the message "MV-7," Vick's initial and uniform number, on their eye-black patches for the game. After White scored on a 33-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter of the 34-14 loss, he pulled up his game jersey, with an assist from Horn, to unveil a T-shirt that read "Free Mike Vick." It is not clear why Houston was found to have violated the uniform policy.

Secret War In The Skies Over Korea

On PBS tonight 8pm EST. I rarely watch PBS, mostly because of the all the fundraising that goes on, but I will be watching this show.

The Korean War has been called “the forgotten war,” and “Missing in MIG Alley,” on PBS on Tuesday night, illustrates a little-known chapter. It describes the rivalry in the sky between two types of fighter jets then on the cutting edge of military aviation: the Soviet MIG-15, used by the North Koreans, and the F-86 Sabre, flown by the Americans and the British. The bulk of the dogfights took place south of the Yalu River on the border between North Korea and China, in a track of space known to pilots as MIG Alley. The program, an installment of the “Nova” series, reveals that Soviet airmen were actually fighting on behalf of the North Koreans, a fact concealed by the Soviet and American governments at the time for fear of inciting World War III. (This secret may prompt viewer speculation about possible clandestine maneuvers today.)

Good News From The War On Terror 12/15-16

Coalition forces disrupt al-Qaeda operations; four terrorists killed, 18 detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed four terrorists and detained 18 suspects during operations Friday and today targeting al-Qaeda in central and northern Iraq. North of Muqdadiyah Friday, Coalition forces targeted alleged associates of an al-Qaeda in Iraq leader responsible for a large terrorist group operating in the northeast Diyala River Valley region. Intelligence reports indicate the targeted individuals are associated with a group recently involved in several fire fights with Coalition forces. The presence of the wanted individuals was confirmed in the target area and supporting aircraft engaged the time-sensitive target, killing three terrorists and destroying a vehicle. Secondary explosions erupted from the vehicle after it was engaged, indicating explosives were likely stored in it.  Coalition forces conducted an operation northeast of Muqdadiyah today, targeting an alleged senior facilitator for al-Qaeda in Iraq. Four suspected terrorists were detained during the operation and one man was killed when the ground forces perceived him as a hostile threat and engaged him. In Baghdad today, Coalition forces captured a wanted individual believed to be involved in extremist activity in the Arab Jabour area, and a close associate of the terrorist network in the region. In addition to the wanted individual, the ground force detained two suspected terrorists on site without incident. West of the city, Coalition forces captured a wanted individual believed to be involved in an improvised explosive device network in the region. Reports also indicate the wanted individual is associated with an al-Qaeda in Iraq member involved in the media and weapons facilitation network in the city.  Two suspected terrorists and another wanted individual were detained by Coalition forces today during an operation west of Tarmiyah. The wanted individual is believed to be involved in improvised explosive device attacks in the area, and is a close associate of individuals recently detained by Coalition forces for their involvement in the network north of Baghdad. The network is responsible for car-bombing and improvised explosive device attacks in the area, as well as being involved in extortion, intimidation, weapons trafficking and the facilitation of foreign terrorists.  Farther north in Hawija, Coalition forces detained seven suspected terrorists today while targeting an alleged associate of the al-Qaeda network in the Salah ad Din province.

 

Coalition forces disrupt al-Qaeda operations; six terrorists killed, 23 detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed six terrorists and detained 23 suspects during operations Saturday and today targeting al-Qaeda in central and northern Iraq. Coalition forces conducted an operation north of Muqdadiyah today targeting an al-Qaeda in Iraq leader operating in the region. Reports indicate that the target building was used as a terrorist safe house and associated with the group recently involved in several fire fights with Coalition forces.  When the ground forces called for the occupants of a building to come out, one man emerged, but then went back inside the building. A second individual came out and charged directly at the ground force. Perceiving hostile intent, they engaged him, and then observed explosions from the man’s position, indicating he was likely wearing a suicide vest. Another individual was observed attempting to put a suicide belt on and, perceiving hostile intent, the ground force engaged, killing him.  Coalition forces were then engaged by men inside the building and returned fire in self-defense. Due to the hostile environment, the ground force pulled back from their position and called for supporting aircraft to engage the enemy threat, killing an additional two terrorists and destroying one building.  In Mosul, Coalition forces conducted an operation today targeting an alleged al-Qaeda in Iraq leader operating in the city. The targeted individual is reportedly involved in the facilitation of weapons and improvised explosive device making material, which he provides to other al-Qaeda cell leaders. As the ground force cleared the target area, an individual lunged toward their position. Perceiving hostile intent, Coalition forces engaged the man, killing him.  Four suspected terrorists were also detained on site. During coordinated operations today southeast of Samarra, Coalition forces detained 15 suspected terrorists while targeting associates of al-Qaeda senior leaders operating in Samarra and Salah al Din. Near Mahmudiyah, Coalition forces conducted operations today targeting an al-Qaeda in Iraq member associated with a leader of the terrorist network operating south of Baghdad.  The wanted individual is reportedly involved in the movement of foreign terrorists and attacks against Coalition forces. During the operation, the wanted individual maneuvered toward the ground force’s position. Coalition forces directed him to stop, but he did not comply. Perceiving hostile intent, they engaged, killing him. One suspect was also detained on site without incident. During an operation southwest of Mahmudiyah Saturday, Coalition forces captured an al-Qaeda in Iraq leader for the network north of Baghdad. The wanted individual reportedly replaced Tha’ir Malik, who was killed during an operation by Coalition forces Nov. 5. The network is responsible for car-bombing and improvised explosive device attacks in the area, as well as involved in extortion, intimidation, weapons trafficking and the facilitation of foreign terrorists.  In addition to the wanted individual, the ground force detained two suspected terrorists and found a cache of improvised explosive device materials. The weapons, and the vehicle they were found in, were safely destroyed on site to prevent further use by terrorists.

 

Iraqi and Coalition Forces flush al-Qaeda from Euphrates hideouts (Iskandariyah)

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces launch Marne Roundup, an operation focused on flushing out al-Qaeda extremists and weapons smugglers operating near Iskandariyah, Iraq, Dec. 15. The ground assault included Iraqi Army forces and Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. By afternoon, troops had encountered no resistance as they moved through the target area. In tandem with the start of the offensive, U.S. soldiers destroyed two buildings used by insurgents to store improvised explosive device-making materials, using a total of 12 Guided Multiple-Launch Rocket System rockets. As soon as the target area is secured, U.S. troops will begin construction of a new security outpost, Patrol Base Khidr. From there, Concerned Local Citizen programs will be developed in the area and together with Iraqi Police, the CLCs will secure major roads leading to and from Iskandariyah. According to the 4th BCT, 3rd Inf. Div., one of the intended effects of the operation is that Iraqi residents of the region will witness a demonstration of Iraqi Police and Army forces standing up to AQI and providing services. Operation Marne Roundup is the latest in a series of combat offensives launched by Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers to squeeze AQI from the areas south and west of Baghdad. The operation follows on the success of Operation Marne Courageous, in which Iraqi and Coalition forces secured an area on the west bank of the Euphrates River, near Owesat, Iraq.

 

MND-Center Soldiers disrupt extremist activity (Khargulia)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq – In two separate operations Dec. 12, Soldiers from the 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment detained a suspected extremist and seized an enemy weapons cache. Using information provided by local citizens, Soldiers from Troop A, 3-1st Cav. Regt. apprehended an individual in the early morning hours in a house north of Khargulia. The suspect is believed to be a leader in a local extremist cell that is active in the trafficking of weapons and ammunition. Later in the day, Soldiers from Company D, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, currently attached to 3-1st Cav. Regt., discovered a weapons cache during an operation near Jisr Diyala. As they searched a house, Soldiers discovered a large sum of Iraqi dinar, a spool of detonation wire, a pistol, a large bag of 7.62 mm ammunition and a camcorder.  The 1-15th Inf. Regt. and the 3-1st Cav. Regt. are part of the 3rd HBCT, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.,and have been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom since March.

 

ANSF, Coalition forces declare a victory in Helmand

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Forces from the 205th Corps, under the leadership of Afghan National Army Brig. Gen. Muyaiden, raised the Afghan national flag high above the Musa Qalah District Center Dec. 12 as part of the largest operation in years to remove insurgents from Musa Qalah, Helmand Province, Dec. 5 to Dec. 12. The fighting began Dec. 5 when ANSF Kandaks, advised by Coalition forces, conducted a reconnaissance patrol in Now Zad.  Taliban insurgents attempted to stop the ANSF-led force by firing from established fighting positions.  Enemy fighters fired on the ANSF using small-arms, rockets and mortar fire.  ANSF returned fire with small-arms and machine gun fire, quickly putting the Taliban on the defensive. The Taliban moved to different fighting positions in an attempt to flank friendly forces as the battle escalated.  ANSF identified the enemy’s hardened fighting positions and engaged them by calling in precision munitions strikes.  The bombs hit their target and destroyed the threat.  The enemy radioed for reinforcements from positions south of the fighting when they realized their defensive fighting positions were being destroyed. The Taliban tried to take refuge in local villager’s homes and use the remaining civilians as protection and the ANA advanced.  However, the Afghan civilians resisted Taliban efforts to take over their homes.  Concurrently, Coalition forces identified a prominent Taliban leader providing instructions to a large number of insurgents.  ANSF quickly manuevered to engage the insurgents by first using small-arms and machine gun fire, then calling in precision munitions, ultimately destroying the enemy. After a short consolidation and reorganization of men and munitions, the ANSF-led force resumed their effort to drive out the Taliban.  The Taliban continue to make false claims on the Internet about the battle in Musa Qalah.  In one report, the Taliban claimed to have killed several Coalition forces and captured two abandoned tanks in the Musa Qalah District of Helmand Province.  They also claimed to have captured large amounts of ammunition and military equipment.  Another Internet posting claims Coalition forces dropped leaflets telling Afghan civilians to leave their homes or Coalition bombs would destroy them. ANA soldiers from the 205th Corps, assisted by Coalition forces, successfully secured the center of Musa Qalah after several days of fighting.

 

ANSF discover insurgent safe house near Musa Qala

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Soldiers from the Afghan National Army’s 205th Corps, assisted by Coalition forces, conducted follow-on operations in Musa Qalah, Helmand Province, Dec 13. While ANA troops were conducting a dismounted patrol near Musa Qalah, the troops discovered an insurgent safe house.  The safe house consisted of two compounds in which ANSF found improvised explosive device-making materials, suicide vests and clothes with the ranks of senior insurgent leadership.  Two prepared insurgent sniper positions were also discovered in the compounds. Later in the clearing operations, ANA soldiers found an improvised explosive device-making factory and more suicide vests.  An explosive ordnance disposal team conducted a thorough search and disarmed the IEDs.  While searching the compounds, soldiers also found more than 2,000 kilograms of opium.

 

 Dec. 14 airpower summary:

 

Dec. 15 airpower summary:

John Bolton: Bush Needs To "Rein In" Condi Rice

When Duncan Hunter wins the election, John Bolton had better be his #1 choice for Secretary of State. Once again, Bolton pulls no punches when it comes to foreign policy failures.

US President George W. Bush's foreign policy is in free fall and puts the nation's security at risk, former ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton told a German magazine on Sunday. Bolton , who was a leading hawk in the US administration and favored a tough stance against Iran, North Korea and Iraq, told the Der Spiegel weekly that Bush needed to rein in Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. "His foreign policy is in free fall. The president is acting against his own judgment and instincts (and is) under the influence of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice," he was quoted as telling the magazine. Bolton said Rice's was the dominant voice on foreign policy and that she was a channel for the views of liberal career bureaucrats in the foreign ministry. "(Bush) does not supervise her enough. That is a mistake," he was quoted as saying, adding that a moderate foreign policy was a threat to US security. "North Korea will, for example, now keep its nuclear weapons. And the Iranians have got a signal from our own intelligence services that they can do whatever they want. "I am not as confident as the intelligence services that Iran has stopped its nuclear weapons program." The former diplomat, who quit his UN job last December after failing to win Senate confirmation and now works at a think-tank, also predicted a withdrawal of US troops from Iraq if Hillary Clinton became the next US president.