This document provides a summary of activities of the Joint Network Node (JNN) Soldiers who are responsible for maintaining communications networks for U.S. Division-North in Iraq. It describes how the JNN Soldiers travel ahead of command units to set up communications and keep commanders connected to frontline units. It quotes Soldiers discussing the challenges of maintaining systems in harsh conditions but how they work to ensure information flows between all levels of the military.

1. U.S. Division-North
Volume 1, Issue 38 Established in 1917 to honor those who serve July 22, 2011
Working with Combined Security Force a
Black Jack
positive experience for 1st AATF Soldier
Steadfast and Loyal
Sgt. David Strayer
109th MPAD
USD-N Public Affairs
LongKnife
CONTINGENCY OPERAT-
ING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq
– For one infantryman serv-
ing with 1st Advise and Assist
Ironhorse
Task Force, 1st Infantry Divi-
sion, working alongside Iraqi
Devil
counterparts during Operation
New Dawn proved to be a pro-
found experience.
Currently on his first de-
ployment to Iraq, Pfc. Anthony
Fit for Any Test
Fit for Any Test
Richardson, Company A, 2nd
Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regi-
ment, 1st AATF, trains and
conducts operations with the
Kirkuk expanded Combined
Security Force – a unit com- U.S. Army photo by 1st Sgt. Steven Sierras, Company A, 2nd Bn.,12th Cav. Regt.
prised of Iraqi Army soldiers, Private 1st Class Anthony Richardson, an infantryman assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cav-
Kurdish Regional Guard and alry Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, walks with members of the Kirkuk
Iraqi Policemen. expanded Combined Security Force during a patrol in Kirkuk City, Iraq, March 8, 2011. The expanded
Ironhorse
Devil
“On a daily basis we work Combined Security Force is comprised of Iraqi Army soldiers, Kurdish Regional Guard and Iraqi Police-
men serving together in one unit to provide security throughout Kirkuk province.
with the (eCSF),” said Rich-
ardson, a native of Marion, ing, especially since the eCSF the rigors of a yearlong de- age to be working in such a
Ohio. expanded into a battalion- ployment in a variety of ways. significant position, on such a
“We load up and head out to sized element, said Spc. Raul Some read, some go to the unique mission, it’s pretty life-
LongKnife
the training areas, or we gear Verduzco, Company A, who gym, others immerse them- changing.”
Steadfast and Loyal
up to go out on a combined serves as Richardson’s team selves in reflecting upon their “Instead of just trying to do
patrol with them; there usually leader. missions. his deployment time and go
isn’t a day that goes by where Richardson said the eCSF “This is his first deploy- home, Richardson has really
we aren’t with those guys. We trains on the same tactics that ment, and I’m sure like most of adapted to the mission and em-
have been together so much U.S. forces train on, includ- us, he didn’t really expect to be braced it,” said Verduzco.
that working with the (eCSF) ing basic rifle marksmanship, doing this type of (advisory) “It has helped him mature,
BLack JAck
guys is really not any different small unit tactics, first aid and mission,” said Verduzco, a na- and I believe that he is a much
than working with my platoon- counter insurgency operations. tive of Brooklyn, N.Y. “Work- better Soldier and a better per-
mates now,” said Richardson. They respond to the training ing so closely with the (eCSF), son as a result,” he added.
Working with the eCSF is well, he added. however, has really had an After nearly a full year of
a unique and momentous task- Many people respond to impact on him. For a guy his See WORK, Pg. 3

2. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
Soldiers learn a variety of skills throughout their military ca-
reers, from basic drill and ceremony to combat operations. Each
skill serves an important role in the day-to-day life of every service
member.
Specialist Zachary Parker, a cannon crew member, distin-
guished himself for using his skills, and potentially saving the life
of an Iraqi soldier assigned to the Kurdish Regional Guard Brigade
at Manila Training Center, June 28.
Parker, assigned to Battery A, 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artil-
lery Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Infantry Divi-
sion, uses his knowledge of military tactics to train RGB Soldiers,
teaching them to safely engage targets and maneuver the training
area without sustaining injury during courses at MTC.
“We looked at it as just another day hiking up and down the
mountains towards the ranges to support the RGB,” said Parker, U.S. Army photo
who calls New Gloucester, Maine, home. Specialist Zachary Parker, a cannon crew member assigned to Battery
During the culminating live fire event, Parker noticed one of the A, 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist
Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, prepares for a mission at Contingency
trainees showing symptoms of becoming a heat casualty. Operating Site Warrior, Kirkuk province, Iraq, July 21, 2011. Parker per-
Disregarding his own safety, Parker ran over mountainous ter- formed first aid on a Kurdish Regional Guard Brigade soldier showing
rain and pulled the RGB soldier into a shady area and immediately signs of heat exhaustion during a training exercise, June 28. For his
actions of protecting the well-being of the trainee, Parker earned the
began administering first aid. title of U.S. Division – North “Ironhorse Strong” Soldier of the Week.
“It first felt like training back at the states; just one of those
lanes we have to go through," said Parker. "But then I realized that Parker's actions exemplified the warrior spirit of the U.S. Army
this was for real and that this guy actually needed help.” and his dedication to the partnership between U.S. forces and Iraqi
After treatment from Parker, the trainee recovered and com- forces, earning him the title of "Ironhorse Strong" Soldier of the
pleted the day's training with his unit. Week.
JNN Soldiers keep the force Infantryman sees progress Troops jam out on COB Motor Sergeant supports
connected through deployments Speicher Fort Hood troops in Iraq
Page 4 Page 6 Page 8 Page 10
THE Ivy Leaf Task Force Ironhorse
Commanding General – Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins
The Ivy Leaf is an authorized publication for members of the
Command Sergeant Major – Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey
U.S. 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. Everything advertised in this Task Force Ironhorse Public Affairs
publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage TF Ironhorse PAO – Lt. Col. Steve Wollman
without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, TF Ironhorse PA NCOIC – Master Sgt. 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 July 22 , 2011
U.S. forces transfer COS Sykes to ISF
Spc. Angel Turner are graduates of Tadreeb al Shamil, an all-
4th AAB Public Affairs inclusive training program conducted with
1st Cav. Div., USD-N U.S. forces at Ghuzlani Warrior Training
Center earlier this year.
CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE “The forces that are operating around
MAREZ, Iraq – U.S. forces officially Sykes and Tal Afar are the same forces that
transferred responsibility of Contingency we’ve been training here as part of Tadreeb
Operating Site Sykes to Iraqi Security al Shamil,” said Reese. “These units are
Forces, June 14. much more capable now that they they’ve
Soldiers of 5th Battalion, 82nd Field gone through a rotation here and they are
Artillery Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist more effective in their area of operations.”
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, spent more Captain Kyle Eldridge, a native of
than a month preparing the base for use by U.S. Army photo Bryson City, N.C., and commander of Bat-
10th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division. Iraqi Army Officers sign paperwork to trans- tery A, 5th Bn., 82nd FA Regt., said U.S.
U.S. forces manned the base, located fer authority of Contingency Operating Site forces transferred the base with many of
Sykes from U.S. to Iraqi responsibility during
near Tal Afar, since the initial stages of Op- a meeting at the base, July 13, 2011. the amenities intact for Iraqi forces, giving
eration Iraqi Freedom in 2003. Once OIF them a head start on operations.
transitioned to Operation New Dawn, U.S. COS Sykes supported several check- U.S. forces reallocated the equipment
forces assumed an advisory role to prepare points and combined security areas in the through the Foreign Excess Personnel
ISF units to secure Iraq from threats. region around Tal Afar, many of which Property program, which is designed to
“This is the largest base so far that we U.S. forces have already transitioned to the identify and distribute eligible property
have transitioned since arriving in coun- responsibility of Iraqi Army or Kurdish Se- items to the Iraqi government.
try,” said Lt. Col Paul Reese, deputy com- curity Forces. Soldiers continue to transition FEPP
manding officer, 4th AAB. “Right now the Iraqi Army is stationed items, such as housing units, office and
Reese said recent gains in security pro- in the city itself,” said Reese. “As security power supplies, to help build capabilities
vided U.S. and Iraqi forces the opportunity continues to improve out there, one of the of Iraqi Security Forces units during Op-
to successfully transfer the base. goals is to bring the Iraqi Army out of the eration New Dawn.
“COS Sykes could not have transitioned city to allow the Iraqi Police to provide se- “We left all of the living quarters, main-
if the Iraqi and Kurdish Security Forces curity inside the city.” tenance bays and some other equipment
were not working together in western Many Iraqi soldiers who assumed re- necessary to run their day-to-day opera-
Ninewa,” said Reese, a native of St. Louis. sponsibility for operations at COS Sykes tions such as generators,” Eldridge said.
WORK, Cont'd from Pg. 1 with its own operational foot-
training, instructing and con- print on COS Warrior,” said
ducting operations with mem- Richardson. “I have learned
bers of the eCSF, Richardson’s a lot over the course of this
time in Kirkuk province is tour, not only about myself, but
nearly over. about the people and culture of
Richardson said the mea- Iraq.”
sure of success in the mission Richardson said he feels a
will be seen in the future of the great part of himself was in-
eCSF units he and his company vested in the growth of the
helped train. eCSF, and a great part of the
“They are pretty much go- eCSF provided him personal
ing to be operating completely development.
independently from us, and it “It’s an experience I will
is extremely gratifying to see carry with me for a long time,”
them get to this point and to he said.
know that I personally had a
hand in it,” said Richardson. Private 1st Class Anthony Rich-
ardson, an infantryman serving
“We were here to not only with Company A, 2nd Battalion,
witness, but also help facilitate 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Ad-
the expansion and the growth of vise and Assist Task Force, 1st
the original CSF company into Infantry Division, speaks with a
Kurdish boy while on a combined
a battalion-sized element that security patrol with Iraqi forces in
works alongside U.S. forces Kirkuk, Iraq, March 8, 2011. U.S. Army photo by 1st Sgt. Steven Sierras, Company A, 2nd Bn., 12th Cav. Regt.
3

4. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
JNN Soldiers keep the force connected
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD – N PAO
Specialist Jordan Edwards, a multi-channel transmission systems operator and maintainer, Company C, Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th
Infantry Division, performs maintenance checks on a satellite transportable terminal at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, July 2, 2011.
Spc. Andrew Ingram subordinate units throughout to ensure that those lines of to handle those. All in all, we
USD-N Public Affairs northern Iraq. communication stay open at all have become very proficient at
“We are the backbone of times,” he said. keeping our systems running
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- both secret and unclassified The JNN Soldiers maintain and keeping everyone connect-
ING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq communications for U.S. Divi- clear communications by op- ed during this deployment.”
– Throughout history, timely sion – North,” said Staff Sgt. erating and maintaining both Whatever the challenge,
and accurate communication Ian Riley, day shift noncom- the satellite, line-of-sight and JNN Soldiers will do whatever
between commanders and sol- missioned officer in charge, wired communications equip- it takes to keep the flow of in-
diers on the front lines meant JNN section. “The intent of ment, sometimes a daunting formation moving, said Cpl.
the difference between victory our job is to keep the command task in the harsh conditions of Holly Hinojosa, signal support
and defeat. connected to the units on the northern Iraq, said Spc. Jor- systems specialist, JNN sec-
In the past, the military used ground.” dan Edwards, a multi-channel tion, currently serving on her
couriers and aerial telegra- Many communications Sol- transmissions systems operator second deployment as a part of
phy to communicate informa- diers traveled to Contingency assigned to the JNN section. DSTB.
tion and orders. In the modern Operating Base Speicher in the “The command chain needs “Things have been a lot
Army, Soldiers communicate Salah ad Din province ahead of to be in the know when it more hectic this deployment,”
via secure radios, telephones the command staff to ensure the comes to what is happening on said Hinojosa, a Sebring, Fla.,
and computer networks. Soldiers of DSTB arrived with the battlefield,” said Edwards, native. “There has been a lot
Soldiers assigned to the a solid communications net- who calls Fredericksburg, Va., more going on, and we have
Joint Node Network section, work already in place. home. “They can’t stay in- had a lot less down time, but
Company C, Division Special Without communications formed if we don’t maintain we have a good team here and I
Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Soldiers, leaders would not our systems. We’ve had to deal really feel like we have risen to
Division, deployed in support have an accurate picture of with dust storms, which can put the occasion.”
of Operation New Dawn, carry what is happening in the field, a lot of wear on our satellite In addition to keeping lines
on this tradition by keeping the said Riley, who hails from systems. There are power out- of communication open, the
U.S. Division – North com- Enumclaw, Wash. ages, and we drilled constantly JNN section’s leadership puts a
mand structure connected to “Our first priority is always when we first arrived in country See JNN, Pg. 5
4

5. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
Logistics Soldiers compete in truck rodeo
Staff Sergeant Charles Grant, a Bronx, N.Y., Soldiers also used the truck rodeo as a cata-
native, and a motor transportation opera-
lyst for cross training.
tor assigned to Company A, 15th Brigade
Support Battalion, 2nd Advise and Assist During the rodeo, every Soldier had to
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, tests a clamp show proficiency at each position, from
used to tow armored vehicles before his driver to truck commander to gunner, re-
squad participates in a gun truck “rodeo” at
gardless of their normal duties in the truck,
Joint Base Balad, Iraq, July 15, 2011.
explained Capt. Adam Bradford, from
Soldiers, while at the same time testing Little Rock, Ark., and commander of Com-
their skill level,” said Sgt. Francisco Du- pany A.
ran, from Post, Texas, who helped test Sol- “We want to make sure everyone is
diers during the rodeo. cross-trained on every task,” he continued.
For Soldiers who participated, the rodeo “That way any one of them can step into a
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Justin Naylor, 2nd AAB PAO
offered a chance to demonstrate their pro- different seat and execute that task.”
Sgt. Justin Naylor ficiencies at tasks that are essential to their During the rodeo, Soldiers continued
2nd AAB Public Affairs daily operations. training on tasks that are vital to their daily
1st Cav. Div., USD-N The group of gun truck operators rou- jobs.
tinely escort and provide security for large “Everything we did here is something
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – When most numbers of civilian and Army logistical we do on missions,” said Purnell.
people hear the word rodeo, images of convoys, many of which supply necessary Soldiers do not always get the chance to
horses and the “Wild West” spring to mind. supplies and equipment to remote bases in fill every role in the truck, and if they don’t
For Army logisticians, it brings to mind U.S. Division – North. practice on these different tasks, Soldiers
something completely different. “We are always trying to compete to might not be as effective at other roles, he
Soldiers of Company A, 15th Brigade see who is the best,” said Staff Sgt. Omar added.
Support Battalion, 2nd Advise and Assist Bouie, a Newark, N.J., native and a mo- Although the competition will only pro-
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, showed off tor transportation operator with 15th BSB. duce one winning squad, it affords all the
their skills during a multi-day gun truck ro- “Everyone talks a good game, but this is participants the opportunity to demonstrate
deo event at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, July 15. their chance to prove it.” knowledge and skills.
During the rodeo, squads competed in This is a good opportunity to show “Being the best at what we do is some-
various tasks such as operating a radio, as- the company and battalion what Soldiers thing we take pride in,” said Duran. “Sol-
sembling a squad automatic weapon, and learned in training and daily operations, diers that might not do the greatest at a cer-
conducting a quick recovery mission on a said Spc. Preston Purnell, a Baltimore na- tain task today will study and be ready to
broken vehicle. tive from Company A. come back and compete even harder during
“The goal of the truck rodeo is to inspire Besides providing a competitive outlet, the next rodeo.”
JNN, Cont'd from Pg. 4
high value on improving them- them and learn how to work
selves both as soldiers and as with them. I am still working
individuals, she added. on being a strict authoritarian
Hinojosa said she took ad- when I need to be, but this de-
vantage of the opportunity to ployment has truly been a great
gain experience as a junior learning experience for me.”
leader during her months with Riley credits the Soldiers
the JNN section. on his team for a successful
“Being a junior NCO this deployment.“They have done
deployment has been an awe- an outstanding job and have
some experience for me,” Hi- taught me a great deal about
nojosa said. “It is a challenge this career field, We have ac-
to figure out what style of lead- complished a lot together, and
ership works for your Soldiers, I am grateful for such outstand-
but it is great to get to know ing Soldiers.”
Corporal Holly Hinojosa, a signal support systems specialist from
Sebring, Fla., assigned to the Joint Node Network section, Company
C, Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, prepares a
Secure, Mobile Anti-Jam, Reliable Tactical Terminal, for an inspection
at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, July 18, 2011. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD – N PAO
5

6. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
Infantryman sees progress through deployments
Spc. Kandi Huggins
1st AATF Public Affairs
1st Inf. Div., USD-N
CONTINGENCY OPERAT-
ING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq
– Since the onset of Operation
Iraqi Freedom in 2003, thou-
sands of Soldiers witnessed
progress throughout their de-
ployments to Iraq.
For Sgt. Kevin Chapman,
a squad leader with Company
D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cav-
alry Regiment, 1st Advise and
Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry
Division, being a part of the
transition from Operation Iraqi
Freedom to Operation New
Dawn shaped his career as a
Soldier.
Chapman said he always
wanted to serve in the armed
forces, and enlisted in the Army
in 2005.
“I joined the Army to try to
make a difference for my coun-
try,” said the Conyers, Ga., na-
tive. “I knew it was something I
could make a career out of and
do for the rest of my life.”
Deploying from 2005 to
Army photo by Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux, 1st AATF PAO
2007 with 1st Battalion, 36th
Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Sergeant Kevin Chapman, a native of Conyers, Ga., and an infantryman and squad leader assigned to
Company D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division,
Division, from Friedberg, Ger- gears up after leaving the Emergency Services Unit headquarters in Kirkuk, Iraq, July 16, 2011.
many, Chapman said he served
as a gunner for the mortar pla- were there and we were a force. asked for suggestions and their ton.
toon, but was later tasked as the We were more aggressive dur- opinions on the training we Chapman consistently per-
radio and telephone operator in ing the (my first tour) and we gave,” he said. forms above his current rank,
the fire direction center. didn’t work directly with the U.S. and Iraqi forces coop- Charles added.
After the deployment, Chap- ISF.” erated and combined strengths Now, with the mission of
man was reassigned to Fort Chapman said he saw the to develop training and mission an advise and assist task force,
Hood, Texas, where he current- transition in operations begin schedules, while letting Iraqis Chapman said it is important
ly serves. during his second deployment take the lead, he added. for U.S. forces to teach the ISF
After deploying twice dur- in 2008. Specialist John Charles, one to maintain an active presence
ing the middle and latter parts “In 2008 and 2009, I wit- of Chapman’s squad members, in their country.
of Operation Iraqi Freedom, nessed transition,” said Chap- said prior experiences definite- “We want them to take the
Chapman said his current tour man. “After the agreements be- ly influence Chapman’s ability reins, step in and continue tak-
in support of Operation New tween the U.S. and Iraq, we had to be a great leader. ing over everything we do,”
Dawn is different because of to have an ISF counterpart with “He gets a lot of responsibil- said Chapman. “It’s important
U.S. forces’ current role to ad- us, and we worked closely with ity dumped on him, more than for us to teach and show them,
vise Iraqi Security Forces. them, training them on how to anybody else, and he handles and hopefully when we leave,
“During my first deployment shoot mortars.” it with a sense of humor and a they will be better able to uti-
we did presence patrols and ter- “Instead of being the domi- pride about him that I’ve not lize the training we’ve given
rain denial,” said Chapman. nant force and telling them seen from another Soldier,” them and it will continue mak-
“We would go out to show we what to do and how to do it, we said Charles, a native of Hous- ing them better.”
6

7. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
Constant Vigilance: Every Soldier does their part
Spc. Andrew Ingram Springs, Colo., home. “We
USD-N Public Affairs have a great defense team, but
“How can SoldierS of U.S. diviSion –
that being said, our Soldiers nortH protect tHe force?”
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- should still sweat the little
ING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq stuff.”
– When a Soldier deploys, their The fight against compla- “Always be prepared,
routine changes greatly. As cency starts with good leaders keep your head on the
they make the transition from who pass on their experience swivel, even when you’re
life in the U.S. to life in Iraq or and knowledge to their junior just walking to chow.”
Afghanistan, Soldiers learn a Soldiers, said Eddin.
whole new set of rules and re- “NCOs need to make sure –Specialist Carlos Hernandez,
strictions. their Soldiers are doing the mechanic, 370th Transportation
Company, 275th Combat Sustain-
Soldiers of U.S. Division – right thing,” he said. “They ment Support Battalion, from
North, deployed to Iraq in sup- need to make sure their Sol- Brownsville, Texas.
port of Operation New Dawn, diers are squared away, always
are required to travel in groups traveling in battle buddy teams,
and are told to maintain situ- and always have their personal “You have to stay
ational awareness, paying close protective items. They should vigilant, you never know
attention to detail, both on and make sure their Soldiers are what could happen. Be
off U.S. installations. up to date on all of their battle alert to your surround-
These rules are put in place drills, tactics and procedures so ings, if you see anything
to keep Soldiers safe and guard they know how to handle any that could be wrong, tell
against hostile activity, said situation. ” someone.”
Sgt. Maj. Jerry Eddin, 4th In- While vitally important,
fantry Division and U.S. Divi- maintaining personal force pro- –Private 1st Class Yadira Campbell,
sion – North senior enlisted ad- tection measures does not need combat medic, Headquarters Support
Company, Division Special Troops
visor for force protection. to be difficult, said Maj. Robert
Battalion, 4th Infantry Division,
“Every Soldier is respon- West, deputy force protection from Fresno, Calif.
sible for force protection,” said chief, 4th Inf. Div. and U.S. Di-
Eddin, who hails from Hous- vision – North. “Remember where you
ton. “It doesn’t matter where “The bottom line is that we are. Even though we have
you are this deployment, on the are in a war zone and we need many of the amenities
base all day or outside the wire, to keep each other safe,” said a garrison environment
you are still in Iraq and your West. “Most force protection would bring, never allow
attention to detail could save a measures are not complicated. yourself to become com-
Soldier’s life.” Simple things like having a placent.”
Eddin said there is no more battle buddy make a world of
valuable tool to prevent a se- difference when it comes to –Staff Sergeant Justin Deal, battle
noncommissioned officer, Company
curity breach than the Soldier, keeping our Soldiers safe. Just A, Division Special Troops Battalion,
watchful and aware of his or remember that you are not at 4th Infantry Division, from Lytton,
her surroundings. home, you are in Iraq, and stay Iowa.
Soldiers tasked with the spe- in tune with the events going on
cific mission of protecting the around us.” “We use battle buddy
service members and civilians Eddin said he wants Sol- teams and stay aware of
deployed to bases throughout diers to treat force protection our surroundings at all
northern Iraq do an outstand- measures as a part of their mili- times, because we want
ing job of mitigating potential tary routine. ourselves and all of our
threats, said Master Sgt. James “Don’t give force protection team to make it home
Meneley, vulnerability assess- a day off,” said Eddin. “Treat safe.”
ment NCOIC, 4th Inf. Div. and it like physical training. You
U.S. Division – North. always have to push yourself, –Specialist Rebecca Seiler, imagery
“We have improved our base you can always get better and intelligence analyst, Company B,
Division Special Troops Battalion,
security measures greatly over that could mean the difference 4th Infantry Division, from Cibolo,
the past eight years or so,” said between Soldiers living and dy- Texas.
Meneley, who calls Colorado ing.”
7

8. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
Troops jam out on COB Speicher
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD – N PAO
Chaka Khan, a Grammy Award-winning recording artist whose platinum-selling albums span four decades, shares her vocal talents with service
members and civilians deployed to Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, July 14, 2011. Khan and bluesman Carvin Jones visited COB
Speicher during a Morale, Welfare and Recreation tour of Iraq for troops deployed in support of Operation New Dawn.
Spc. Andrew Ingram Speicher. to jam out!”
USD-N Public Affairs “She is a legend,” said Scott, a Savan- Jones, who originally hails from Lufkin,
nah, Ga., native, who began listening to Texas, spent the next hour dashing through
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE Khan as a young girl. “It is so great that classic blues and rock ‘n’ roll tracks. He
SPEICHER, Iraq – Critically acclaimed she came out there to play for us. She made stayed on stage for the vocals, but often
recording artist Chaka Khan and bluesman a lot of Soldiers’ day; I know she totally waded through the crowed to give audience
Carvin Jones treated service members and made mine.” members an up-close and personal look at
civilians in U.S. Division – North to a night Before Khan hit the stage, Carvin Jones his musical chops during guitar solos.
of high-energy music at Contingency Oper- opened up the show with his own brand of “This is amazing,” said Spc. Thilo Fin-
ating Base Speicher, Iraq, July 14. the blues. ley, a food service specialist assigned to
As Khan began to sing, audience crowd- “I don’t know if you ever heard of us be- 89th Transportation Company, 275th Com-
ed around the stage to get a better view of fore tonight,” said Jones, moments before bat Sustainment Support Battalion. “It is
the singer. They whistled, danced and sang kicking off the show. “But we are all going See SHOW, Pg. 9
along as the diva belted out hits and got the
crowed involved in the show, sharing the
microphone with members of the audience.
The Grammy Award-winning singer
also thanked the troops for their commit-
ment to duty and wished them a safe return
to their Families and loved ones.
“This is my wish for all of you,” said
Khan. “I wish that all of you would return
home safely to everlasting love.”
Sergeant Latasha Scott, a food service
specialist with Headquarters Support Com-
pany, Division Special Troops Battalion,
4th Infantry Division, said Khan put on one
of the best shows to come through COB
Carvin Jones, a blues singer and guitar-
ist from Lufkin, Texas, gets up-close and
personal with U.S. Division – North service
members and civilians during a Morale, Wel-
fare and Recreation concert at Contingency
Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, July 14, 2011. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD – N PAO
8

9. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
‘Long Knife’ troops transfer responsibility of JSS IMN
Captain Warren Sears, left, com- needed to train the ISF,” said
mander, Company B, 2nd Bat- Reese, a native of St. Louis.
talion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th
Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st “So U.S. forces are going to
Cavalry Division, speaks with withdraw and turn one more
Iraqi Army officers during the piece of security over to the
transfer of authority for Joint Iraqi forces.”
Security Station Iraqi Media Net-
work, July 15, 2011. U.S. Soldiers During the past 10 months,
assigned to 4th AAB transferred 4th AAB Soldiers assisted in
responsibility of the base and the transferring multiple military
surrounding area to Iraqi Secu- bases and facilities to the Iraqi
rity Forces in Ninewa province in
support of Operation New Dawn. government in support of Op-
U.S. Army photo eration New Dawn.
Spc. Terence Ewings oversaw the transfer of Joint IMN worked to support the “The Soldiers at JSS IMN
4th AAB Public Affairs Security Station Iraqi Media neighboring patrol bases and did a fantastic job training the
1st Cav. Div., USD-N Network from U.S. control to checkpoints east of Mosul. ISF soldiers and providing lo-
the government of Iraq, July 15. In addition to providing lo- gistical support to nearby bas-
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- “This base transfer will help gistical support to nearby bas- es,” said Command Sgt. Maj.
ING SITE MAREZ, Iraq – As the Iraqi Security Forces, be- es, U.S. Soldiers also advised Henry Griffith, the senior en-
Operation New Dawn contin- cause it gives them an addition- and trained their Iraqi counter- listed advisor of the 2nd Bn.,
ues, service members through- al base to work out of and more parts who resided on the base 7th Cav. Regt.
out Iraq now shift into security area to house their soldiers in with them. “We have trained the ISF and
overwatch roles as they transi- better conditions,” said Lt. Col. The transfer of JSS IMN is transferred facilities over to the
tion military bases to Iraqi con- Paul Reese, deputy command- a symbol of the Iraqi Security Iraqi government, and we will
trol. er, 4th AAB. Forces’ ability to handle secu- continue to assist them as we
Soldiers assigned to 2nd Since deploying last fall to rity in this section of eastern transition to an overwatch role
Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regi- U.S. Division – North, Sol- Mosul, said Reese. while they conduct their secu-
ment, 4th Advise and Assist diers of Company B, 2nd Bn., “(It shows the Iraqi people rity operations,” said Griffith, a
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, 7th Cav. Regt., stationed at JSS that) U.S. forces are no longer native of Washington, D.C.
SHOW, Cont’d from Pg. 8
such a great honor to see these amazing, talented people come out
and support us. The whole show was such a great experience.”
During the show, Finley won the door prize – a brand new elec-
tric guitar, and a free concert for the 89th Transportation Company
featuring Jones when the unit returns to Fort Eustis, Va.
“I don’t play the guitar yet, but you can bet I am going to learn,”
said Finley, a Baltimore native. “This concert is probably one of
the best I’ve had in three deployments.”
Jones said he enjoyed playing for the deployed service mem-
bers and looked forward to playing for them more in the future.
“The highlight for me is that the Soldiers are really enjoying the
shows,” said Jones. “I didn’t know what to expect when I came out
here to Iraq, but there has been a really fantastic response.”
The bluesman said visiting with the service members through-
out Iraq humbles him and makes him appreciate the many of the
things he took for granted in the U.S.
“I have a lot more respect for the troops now that I’ve seen
what they have to go through every day,” said Jones. “The heat is
unreal, and they are always working. It’s impressive what those
guys have to do.”
Funk, jazz and rhythm and blues singer Chaka Khan holds out the mi-
crophone for Soldiers and civilians deployed in support of Operation
New Dawn to sing along to one of her hits during a Morale, Welfare
and Recreation concert for at Contingency Operating Base Speicher,
Iraq, July 14, 2011. Khan said she visited Iraq because she wanted
to raise the spirits of troops separated from their Families and loved
ones while deployed in support of Operation New Dawn. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD – N PAO
9

10. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
Motor sergeant supports Fort Hood troops in Iraq
Spc. Terence Ewings
4th AAB Public Affairs
1st Cav. Div., USD-N
CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE
MAREZ, Iraq – Whether they are under
the hood of a tactical vehicle conducting
preventive maintenance checks and servic-
es or shipping personnel and goods, U.S.
Army motor transport operators are a criti-
cal part of any unit’s mission.
“We PMCS the vehicles, drive them
and distribute supplies throughout the en-
tire unit,” said Sgt. Jackloid Carino, a mo-
tor transport operator assigned to Forward
Support Company G, 5th Battalion, 82nd
Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Advise and
Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division.
Currently on his second deployment to
Iraq, Carino is a team leader in the distri-
bution platoon, responsible for leading two
other Soldiers in his section and overseeing
distribution operations for the unit.
“It’s a big responsibility to be a motor U.S. Army photo by Spc. Terence Ewings, 4th AAB PAO
transport operator,” said Carino, a native of Sergeant Jackloid Carino, a motor transport operator assigned to 5th Battalion, 82nd Field
Artillery Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, secures a ladder onto
Honolulu, Hawaii. “We do more than just an M1075 palletized load system truck at Contingency Operating Site Marez, Iraq, July 12, 2011.
drive. We assist in tracking and keeping ac-
countability of … supplies.” “Long Knife” Transition Soldier of the dedication,” said Sgt. 1st Class Huong
For the past four years, Carino served Week for superior performance serving as Brackens, the distribution platoon noncom-
with the battalion’s distribution platoon, a team leader and supporting the brigade’s missioned officer in charge.
ensuring that no matter where fellow Sol- ongoing mission in U.S. Division – North. In addition to his duties as a team leader
diers operated, they received supplies and “Among all my Soldiers, Carino stands for the platoon, Carino also maintains a
equipment in a timely manner. out as one of my ‘go-to’ guys, and it’s great palletized loading system for all types of
Carino recently earned recognition as he was recognized for his hard work and distribution missions in the tactical envi-
ronment.
The distribution platoon uses the load-
ing equipment to provide rapid movement
of combat-configured loads of ammunition
and all classes of supply to the battalion’s
troops stationed in northern Iraq.
“He knows what it takes to accomplish
the mission, and he gets the job done right
the first time,” said Brackens, a native
of Teague, Texas. “Carino has done a lot
within his (military occupational specialty)
since enlisting. He’s a great addition to
the unit, and I’m positive he’ll go on to do
great things for the Army.”
Sergeant Jackloid Carino, a native of Hono-
lulu, Hawaii, and motor transport operator
assigned to Forward Support Company G,
5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment,
4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry
Division, conducts preventive maintenance
checks and services underneath an M1075
palletized load system truck at Contingency
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Terence Ewings, 4th AAB PAO Operating Site Marez, Iraq, July 12, 2011.
10

11. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
Medics train Soldiers on life-saving techniques
Sgt. Quentin Johnson
2nd AAB Public Affairs
1st Cav. Div., USD-N
CONTINGENCY OPERAT-
ING BASE WARHORSE, Iraq
– Soldiers of 2nd Advise and
Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Di-
vision, completed a four-day
combat lifesaver course at Con-
tingency Operating Base War-
horse, Iraq, July 10-13.
Combat medics assigned to
Company C, 15th Brigade Sup-
port Battalion, 2nd AAB, led
the 40-hour course at various
locations throughout the base
for more than 25 Soldiers par-
ticipating in the course.
The class is designed to
teach Soldiers with no medical-
related experience basic and
advanced first aid techniques,
said Spc. Tacy Caffey, a medic
from Seminole, Texas, with
Company C. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Quentin Johnson, 2nd AAB PAO
Soldiers learned a diverse Specialist Michael Olsen, right, an intelligence systems maintainer assigned to Company A, 2nd Special
Troops Battalion, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, bandages a simulated casualty’s
curriculum that included lec- face during a combat lifesaver course at Contingency Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq, July 13, 2011.
tures, hands-on demonstra-
tions, lane training and a writ- down or you don’t have one how to apply tourniquets and ous techniques, said Caffey.
ten exam, said Caffey. … you know the basic steps to bandages, the NPA and chest To ensure that all Soldiers
Within the curriculum, Sol- saving somebody’s life,” said decompressions were a new who are CLS-certified main-
diers learned skill sets such as Olsen, a Boise, Idaho, native. idea to him. tain a fresh perspective on their
controlling bleeding, proper Caffey said, at times, a com- Regardless of how new the techniques and keep up with
use of a tourniquet, applying a bat lifesaver might need to as- concept, the CLS class can current methods, instructors of-
nasal pharyngeal airway, and sist a medic or provide care to challenge Soldiers, regardless fer refresher courses for units
performing needle chest com- the medics themselves. of their experience with previ- upon request, explained Caffey.
pressions, she said. For that reason, Caffey
Specialist Michael Olsen, a stressed to each of her students
student in the course, said us- the importance of paying atten-
ing the training properly will tion to every detail, as well as
ensure wounded Soldiers have understanding the most impor-
more time to be treated by med- tant factor with saving lives –
ical personnel. controlling bleeding.
“(CLS) is about … saving “The major hemorrhaging
peoples’ lives,” said Olsen, an should be taken care of first,”
intelligence systems maintainer added Caffey.
with Company A, 2nd Special Paying attention is vital,
Troops Battalion, 2nd AAB. Caffey explained, since the
Even though he is not a med- class changed in recent years.
ic, Olsen said that basic knowl- Caffey said nasopharyngeal
edge of immediate medical airways and chest decompres- U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Quentin Johnson, 2nd AAB PAO
care is vital, because a medical sions recently became new top- Soldiers from 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division,
carry a Soldier with simulated third-degree burns to a landing zone
professional may not always be ics in the CLS course. during combat lifesaver training at the Teal Medical Clinic on Con-
around. Olsen said, although he tingency Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq, July 13, 2011. More than 25
“In case the medic goes knew some information about Soldiers completed the four-day CLS course.
11

12. The Ivy Leaf July 22 , 2011
Chaplain’s Corner:
Golf and the rhythm of life
Chaplain (Maj.) Paul Foreman In golf, the swing you take repeatedly
Family Life Chaplain, USD-N becomes a part of your muscle memory –
your muscle performs the swing without
I am a good golfer. Let me rephrase conscious thought. The way we live each
that. I am good in the sense that I have day forms daily habits that become either
probably hit more people on a course than good or bad habits. The lives we live
anyone else I know. To date, I’ve hit six teach our children to establish either a
people. good swing or a bad swing into their own
Because of this, I gave up golf as a muscle-memory approach to life.
hobby, as it became too incriminating of And, as you well know, once muscle
a sport for me to continue. I grew tired of memory is established, it takes a lot of
having to apologize for my game to the work and concentration to change it.
people being carried off the golf course in Once upon a time, when I played golf,
ambulances. It was embarrassing. Given I hit a killer drive. Unfortunately, the wind
this past proclivity, I suppose it’s appropri- took it and it sailed over some houses and
ate that I was born into a family with the was lost. I thought, “Oh no, that is a two-
last name of “Fore”man. stroke penalty.”
Before I gave up the game, I learned I was relieved when my boss turned to
that to play golf well, one had to be able to me and said, “No, just take a mulligan.”
depend on more than making a good shot Informal golf rules allow you to take a
by accident. In fact, it required two major “mulligan,” a free repeat, with no penalty.
things – you must do the right thing at the In the game of life, wouldn’t it be nice
right time. if we could hear this at the end of the day?
Golf not only requires the right align- “Oh God, I don’t even know what to say. I
ment, grip and backswing – the right thing messed up so much today.” And the Lord
– but it must be done with the right rhythm
– the right time.
would smile and say, “Take a mulligan.
Just do it over. Tomorrow you get another
USD-N Social Media
So it is with life. We must not only do try, so get some rest.” To read more stories and see
the right things, but we must learn to do In essence, this is what He does. I am the photos that go with them,
them at the right times – in rhythm with not saying that we should minimize or as well as some videos, check
God’s divine plan. Or to quote golf guru deny our problems or mistakes. But each
and every new day, God gives us another
out the links below. Read and
Bagger Vance, “The rhythm of golf is like
the rhythm of life.” chance. share what you see and pass
One of the most common mistakes Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Finish along the Soldiers' stories.
people make in golf is to swing at the each day and be done with it. You have
ball too hard. There is a false sense that done what you could; some blunders and
the harder you swing, the farther the ball absurdities have crept in; forget them as
www.facebook.com/4thid
will go. Nothing could be further from the soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day;
truth. Actually, experts say the downward you shall begin it serenely and with too www.youtube.com/the4id
swing of the club must be slow and in high a spirit to be encumbered with your
tempo with the rest of the body. When this old nonsense.” w w w. f l i c k r. c o m / p h o t o s /
happens, the ball goes effortlessly down So this week, let’s remember that the4id
the fairway. sometimes it’s not about trying harder
Most of us think if we just try harder, or moving faster, it’s about learning how www.slideshare.net/the4id
if we just increase the speed of our lives, to live in better rhythm. It might mean
and figure out how we can get more things learning how to slow down your hurried www.twitter.com/4thInfDiv
done in a day, we will be content. We be- spirit or reflecting on what rhythms of
lieve we will be happier and more produc- muscle memory need to be strengthened
tive and live longer lives. or revised. strength and rhythm.
This is not always true. Sometimes we This way, we can be thankful that our And yes, if I ever play golf again, I
need to try softer swings and live our lives Creator gives us a mulligan rule every 24 apologize in advance for hitting one of
in tempo and rhythm. hours and we can start a new day in His you on the fairway.
12