In Afghanistan, the locals are finally beginning to realize the difference between the good guys and the bad guys in that country. According to military officials, recently the insurgents in eastern Afghanistan are increasingly focusing their attacks away from coalition forces and on local residents. The rate of civilians killed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in eastern Afghanistan has risen 117 percent in the last year, while coalition forces deaths from IEDs have decreased by 70 percent, they said.

Army Col. Michael Howard, commander of the 25th Infantry Division’s 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), which controls the battle space of Paktika, Paktia and Khost provinces, explained that anyone who possesses the courage to speak out against the Taliban becomes a target.

“They are targeting civilians,” he said. “IEDs that go off with a command wire are not an accident. Someone pulled a trigger. They also are using force in an indiscriminate and irresponsible way,” he continued. “When they put a pressure-plate IED in the road, when there is 10 times more civilian traffic than military traffic, it puts all civilians at risk. This happens all the time.”

Nazifullah Karimi, from Khost province, said Afghans are angry, and that everyone has been affected by the attacks. At least one member of each extended family has been targeted, threatened or intimidated by the insurgents, he said.

“They don’t march in the streets, but that doesn’t mean that they are not furious,” Howard concurred. “There is such intimidation from the Taliban that they cannot vocalize how disgusted they are. The Afghans that we work with, that we become friends with, tell us there is outrage.”

Afghan and coalition forces encourage the locals to evaluate the activities of both the insurgents and their government, to arrive at an educated conclusion in order to gather the courage to unite and defend their families, communities and country.

“Look around and see,” Howard said. “Every time there is a fight between your army and the Taliban, who wins and who loses? How many schools and roads and mosques have been built by the army, and then compare that to the Taliban. Look at your government: is it progressing, is it getting bigger, is it getting stronger? Are resources flowing from it? Are they providing some basic services like health care and education? Then look at the Taliban, and see how much of that they are doing.

“You will see that one side has done a lot of good, and one has done a lot of evil,” he said. “You will see an imbalance. Look, and then decide for yourselves how many of these things came from the government and how many came from the Taliban.”

This is so true, don’t you think?

Sgt. Stryker out.

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USS John C. Stennis Participates in Northern Edge 2009

An Air Force F-22 Raptor executes a supersonic flyby over the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis. John C. Stennis is participating in Northern Edge 2009, a joint exercise focusing on detecting and tracking units at sea, in the air and on land. Courtesy Photo

U.S. Soldiers Assist Iraqis at Checkpoints

U.S. Soldiers with 1-150th Armored Reconnaissance Squadron, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division assist Iraqi army soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 23rd Brigade, 17th Division, conduct checkpoint operations in Yusi Fiyah Nahia, Mahmudiyah, Baghdad, Iraq on June 27. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Edwin L. Wriston

USS John C. Stennis Participates in Northern Edge 2009

Lt. Jim Imlah, from Newport, Ore., launches an F/A-18C Hornet, from the “Death Rattlers” of Marine Strike Fighter Squadron 323, from the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis. John C. Stennis is participating in Northern Edge 2009, a joint exercise focusing on detecting and tracking units at sea, in the air and on land. Photo by Seaman Kyle Steckler

If you hadn’t heard (thanks to the media), Army Lt. Gen. David M. Rodriguez arrived in Afghanistan this week to assume his post as deputy commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan. Rodriguez will serve in that post on an interim basis as NATO officials create a new intermediate command that he will head in the alliance’s International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to oversee day-to-day military operations in the region.

Earlier this month, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates explained the rationale behind the new command structure and where Rodriquez will fit in under Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal, who commands both U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan (which is a pretty big job any way you look at it.)

“The problem we needed to address is [that] the commander of ISAF under the current arrangement has far too many responsibilities to be able to guide the tactical battle on a day-to-day basis across the country,” Gates said. “The plan is for General McChrystal and the [British] deputy commander — Royal Marines Lt. Gen. Jim Dutton — to have more of a strategic role in looking across the country at a more elevated level in terms of cooperation between civil and military efforts.”

The secretary said he hopes the new NATO command structure will be in place by August. “Immediately on the establishment of this ISAF headquarters,” he said, “[Rodriquez] will take off the U.S. hat and put on an ISAF hat, and his only role will be in an alliance role.”

As commander of the 82nd Airborne Division, Rodriquez led Combined Joint Task Force 76, based at Bagram Airfield, from February 2007 to April 2008. This is the second tour of duty in Afghanistan for him. As deputy commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan, he will direct the day-to-day operations and continue effective integration and coordination between U.S. and coalition forces operating under ISAF, officials said. Rodriguez most recently served as Gates’ senior military assistant.

Questions? Sgt. Stryker out.

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The Patrol Ship Fatah Arrives in Umm Qasr

Two Iraqi air force MI-17 helicopters join a naval pass and review during the arrrival ceremont of the new Iraqi flagship. Photo by Capt. Tommy Avilucea

‘Swordsmen’ and ‘Checkerboards’ Stand by to Secure Jets

Marines from the “Checkerboards” of Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 312, and a Sailor assigned to the “Swordsmen” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32, stand by to secure jets during flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) is underway in the Atlantic Ocean performing a Composite Training Unit Exercise. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Felicito Rustique

Paratroopers, National Police Patrol Oubaidy

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Sorton from Pittsburgh, Pa., and U.S. Army Spc. Carlin Redhouse, right, from Kirtland, N.M., of 2nd Platoon, A Company, 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, walk with an Iraqi national policeman during an assessment of civil improvement projects in Muhallahs 760, eastern Baghdad, Iraq, June 21. The projects include improving market areas, street paving and local sewers. Photo by Staff Sgt. James Selesnick

Stennis Conducts Northern Edge 2009 Off the Coast of Alaska

An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the “Eightballers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8, embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), flies off the coast of Alaska. John C. Stennis and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 are participating in Northern Edge 2009, a joint exercise focusing on detecting and tracking units at sea, in the air and on land. Photo by Seaman Josue Escobosa

Guam Soldiers Train United Nations Mandated Peacekeeping Skills

Staff Sgt. Ray Jay Aromin, an infantryman assigned to the 1st Battalion, 294th Infantry Regiment, Guam National Guard, shields a role player from scenario-driven gunshots during a peacekeeping scenario as part of Exercise Garuda Shield 09, at the Tentara Nasional Indonesia-Angkatan Darat, or Indonesian army, Infantry Training Center in Bandung Indonesia, June 22. Garuda Shield is a two week exercise brings together Soldiers and Marines from nine nations to train on the United Nations mandated ground-level tasks. GS09 is the latest in a continuing series of exercises designed to promote regional peace and security. Training will focus on peace Support Operations and Global Peace Operation Initiative Certification, a Command Post Exercise, a Field Training exercise and Humanitarian and Civic Assistance Projects. Photo by Spc. Jesse Toves

Factory Closing: Nasiriyah Home for Improvised Explosive Device Manufacture Raided by Dhi Qar Police

Soldiers in the 1st Battalion, 77th Armor Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division catalogue munitions that may have been used in attacks against Iraqi and coalition forces seized by the Iraqi police June 13, in the al Zahara neighborhood of Nasiriyah. The find was one of the largest in southern Iraq over the past year, and was made possible by a tip from locals in the area. The battalion is deployed from Fort Bliss, Texas, to advise and assist the Iraqi security forces in accordance with the U.S. – Iraq Security Agreement. Photo by Staff Sgt. Brendan Stephens

While air dominance is important in modern warfare (crucially so), we must not forget the role the US Navy plays in keeping the waters of the world safe from aggression. Combined Task Force 151 and the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, the task force’s flagship, recently completed a four-day port visit to the Republic of Seychelles.

During the visit, Turkish Rear Adm. Caner Bener, commander, CTF 151, and Capt. Richard Brown, Gettysburg’s commanding officer, made a visit to the Seychelles People’s Defense Forces’ Chief of Staff, Col. Clifford Roseline, where they discussed the importance of counterpiracy operations, information sharing and the nation’s strategic importance in helping prevent and deter acts of piracy.

“Because of Seychelles’ location, it has an important role to play in combating piracy,” said Bener. “They recognize their strategic importance and the negative impacts piracy has not only on their nation, but on nations worldwide. They’ve stepped up to the challenge and pirates are facing tough logistical conditions as a result.”

CTF 151 Chief of Staff Turkish Capt. Faruk Dogan also made office calls to the commander of the Seychelles Coast Guard, Col. D. Gertrude and the Indian warship INS Trishul, which was in Victoria for a port visit to the island nation.

“Coordination and ‘deconfliction’ is key to our success as a counter piracy task force,” said Dogan. “There’s a great deal of water we need to protect and patrol and begin able to coordinate our efforts allows us and the rest of the international naval community to do that efficiently and
effectively.”

CTF 151 is a Turkish-led, multinational task force established to conduct counter piracy operations under a mission-based mandate throughout the CMF area of responsibility to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy in order to protect global maritime security and secure freedom of navigation
for the benefit of all nations.

Do you know someone in the US Navy? Leave a comment below and help support the troops.

Sgt. Stryker out.

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SEAL Qualification Training

SEAL Qualification Training students ride an inflatable boat in San Diego Bay during the twelve-day maritime operations segment of their training program. SEALs are maritime special operations forces operating from sea, air and land. Students are trained to operate from fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, Navy surface ships, submarines, and combatant-craft. Photo by Seaman Kyle Gahlau

USS George Washington Activity

Sailors man the rails aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington during the ship’s departure from Fleet Activities Yokosuka. George Washington is underway on her first summer deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, supporting security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean. hoto by Petty Officer 2nd Class Clifford L.H. Davis

USS John C. Stennis Activity

An F/A-18C Hornet from the Death Rattlers of Marine Strike Fighter Squadron 323 launches from the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis during exercise Northern Edge 2009. Stennis and Carrier Air Wing 9 are participating in Northern Edge, a joint exercise focusing on detecting and tracking units at sea, in the air and on land. Photo by Seaman Walter Wayman

Joint Logistics Over-The-Shore Operations in Camp Lejeune

Petty Officer 2nd Class Jose Guevara, from Beach Master Unit 2, directs a Landing Craft, Mechanized onto Onslow Beach during Joint Logistics Over-The-Shore operations. JLOTS is a joint operation that consists of loading /unloading of ships without fixed port facilities, in friendly or non-defended territory. Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Christopher Hall

Prowler on USS Ronald Reagan

An EA-6B Prowler assigned to the Cougars of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 113 launches from the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. Ronald Reagan is underway on a routine deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. Photo by Oliver Cole

Wounded Warriors Scuba Dive

Danny Facciola, a certified scuba instructor with Soldiers Undertaking Disabled Scuba, leads a class of wounded warriors learning open water diving at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay. Wounded warriors participating in SUDS visited U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to complete their open water diving certification. The SUDS program teaches and certifies disabled and wounded recovering veterans how to scuba dive. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Josh Treadwell

Ships in the South China Sea

The Republic of Singapore Navy frigates RSS Stalwart and RSS Intrepid and the tank landing ship RSS Endeavour maneuver in formation with the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry and the guided-missile destroyers USS Chafee and USS Chung-Hoon during the at-sea phase of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2009. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance the operational readiness of the participating forces. Courtesy Photo

Two military service members were killed, while at least six other personnel were wounded in an early morning indirect fire attack on Bagram Air Field Sunday, June 21, 2009 (Father’s Day 2009…) The wounded were transported to a U.S. medical facility on Bagram Air Field for immediate medical treatment, where they are receiving expert medical care.

“On behalf of the Combined Joint Task Force-82 team, we offer our condolences and sympathy to the families of our two brave service members,” said Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, commanding general of CJTF-82. “Their sacrifice in the name of security and a better way of life for the Afghan people will not be forgotten.”

It is unknown at the time if any Afghan civilians living near the air field were harmed as a result of this attack. The names of the service members are being withheld pending notification of the next-of-kin. The incident is under investigation.

It’s sad for me to have to pass on news like this, but it helps show how serious things still are over there. As Iraq settles down, things are heating up (literally and figuratively) in Afghanistan. Now is NOT THE TIME to slow down over there. We may need more troops to be successful (something NEEDS TO BE DONE about the border with our, ahem… ally…ahem Pakistan.) Yeah, I said it. Someone needs to say it because something needs to be done to solve the problem once and for all.

What do YOU think? I’d love to hear from you, whether you agree with me or not. That’s the BEAUTY of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA – one of the things the military is fighting for all over the world. And that’s a beautiful thing too.

Sgt. Stryker out.

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Preparing to Land On the USS Ronald Reagan

An SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the “Black Knights” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 4, prepares to land aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. The helicopter landing marked the end of daylight flight operations. Ronald Reagan is underway on a routine deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph Buliavac

USNS John Ericsson Conducts a Replenishment-at-sea With USS George Washington

The Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Ericsson (T-AO 194) pulls alongside the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) during a replenishment-at-sea. George Washington is underway supporting security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean during its first summer deployment since becoming the U.S. Navy’s only forward deployed aircraft carrier. Photo by Seaman Apprentice Charles Oki

Monitoring the Screens

Petty Officer 3rd Class Samantha Rablin, air traffic controller, monitors the launch of aircraft in the Carrier Air Traffic Control Center aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. Navy air traffic controllers are capable of directing and landing planes one minute and two miles apart. Ronald Reagan is underway on a routine deployment to the Western Pacific. Photo by Seaman Briana Brotzman

Afghan National Police Conduct Clearing Operations in Kandahar

An Afghan national police troop throws a smoke grenade to mark a helicopter pickup zone after completing a multi-day clearing operation with U.S. Special Operations Forces in Chenartu village located in Shawali Kot District, Kandahar province, Afghanistan, June 19. The joint effort has proven to disrupt improvised explosive devise manufacturing and distribution in the region. Photo by Cpl. Sean Harp

Hope you enjoyed Father’s Day 2009 and got to spend some time with the fathers in your life, whether they are or were in the military or not. There’s a lot of military dads out there and a lot of dads in the military – slight difference there, but an important one. Both play a special role in the military force in the United States of America. And it’s nice to honor both every day and once a year in a big way.

The military sometimes has a special way of celebrating holidays while in a combat situation or posted overseas. In a video below, there’s some B-Roll of Father’s Day 2009 being celebrated in Afghanistan in the midst of winning the overall war over there – slowly but surely hunting the enemy down and rooting them out to take care of them in whatever way needed – peacefully (preferably) or by force if needed. And to be honest, they need some force in Afghanistan, in my not so humble opinion.

In Afghanistan, two International Security Assistance Force service members were killed and six other personnel were wounded in an indirect fire attack on Bagram Air Field this morning.

“On behalf of ISAF, I share our grief and extend our support to the loved ones of these service members,” said Brig. Gen. Richard Blanchette, ISAF spokesperson. “As we continue this vital mission in support of the Afghan people, we will remember this sacrifice with honour and the utmost respect.”

The wounded were transported to a medical facility on Bagram Air Field for immediate medical treatment, where they are receiving expert medical care. It is unknown at this time if any Afghan civilians living near the air field were harmed as a result of this attack.

It is ISAF policy not to release the nationality of any casualty prior to the relevant national authority doing so.

Be safe out there. Sgt Stryker out…

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Oregon Senators Visit Fort Stewart

Oregon State Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley arrive on a Black Hawk helicopter, June 5, Fort Stewart, Ga., with Oregon State Adjunct General Raymond Rees. Photo by Spc. Cory Grogan

School Opens in Naray

Afghan children who will attend a new school in Naray village line up to sing for Kunar’s provincial governor, Fazullah Wahidi, in Nari District, Kunar province, Afghanistan, June 16. “Education will make us all better. It does not take away from culture. It does not harm anyone. It only allows them to find better jobs and become better people,” Wahidi said during the ribbon cutting ceremony. The new school will accommodate more than 300 students. Photo by Lt.j.g. James Dietle

Northern Edge 2009

Members of a West Coast-based Navy SEAL team participate in infiltration and exfiltration training during a Northern Edge 2009 training exercise. An Army aviation unit transported the SEALS in CH-47D Chinook helicopters, performing two-wheel landings atop mountainous terrain in the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex. Courtesy Photo

Airmen Keep a Clean Flight Deck

Airman Jeremy Fortaleza, left, an aviation machinist mate, and Airman John Sexton, an aviation support equipment technician, pressure wash the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN73). George Washington is underway supporting security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean during its first summer deployment since becoming the U.S. Navy’s only forward deployed aircraft carrier. Photo by Seaman Adam K. Thomas

Ah, it’s good to take a break every once in a while. Did you miss me? Seriously, though, I hope you enjoyed the Stephen Colbert videos. They were quite a behind-the-scenes treat, I think. If you enjoyed them on YouTube, be sure to leave a comment here and let me know. I’ve heard him as Bob Hope meets Walter Cronkite – does anyone agree? (Or am I TELLING my age with that comparison? Hah.) Seriously, though, it’s good to see a man like Colbert do something for the military – a groundbreaking USO tour at that. (And the haircut! What a hoot. Check out the videos if you haven’t yet…)

The thing about being in the modern military is that there are few breaks. It’s work day after day. Even when new work isn’t being done, there’s some type of planning or preparation taking place. Even sports and playing around plays a part in the work that the men and women in the military do every single day. I really wish more people in the media would spot all the great people serving their country and highlight them instead of worrying about celebrities’ babies. I know which is more important to all MY friends. (Yes, I could you guys as my “blogger buddies…” which is why it would be nice to have a few more comments! Let me know how I’m doing. Smile.)

Sigh. It’s been a long year so far and there’s still so much work for the US military to do all over the world. Things are progressing, though. It’s just that there are more problems popping up all the time. Even so, the military has been able to handle EVERYTHING thrown at it – even being ignored (for the most part) by the media – from televisions to newspapers to the Internet. What do you think? Are things getting better or worse thanks to the military in the US? Leave a comment and let your voice be heard!

Sgt. Stryker out.

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1st Air Cavalry Brigade Conducts Fallen Angel Training

During a downed aircraft training exercise, Soldiers from Company F, 3rd Battalion, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, pull security after dismounting a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter at Camp Taji, Iraq, north of Baghdad, June 10. The training exercise was conducted to evaluate the response times from the brigade level all the way to the men on the ground. Photo by Sgt. Travis Zielinski

Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa Funds Renovations at Mafurko Clinic in Tanga

A boy leans against a wall during a dedication ceremony at Mafurko Clinic. Service members from the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa, headquartered in Djibouti, in conjunction with the government of Tanzania and the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salam, dedicated improved facilities, funded by CJTF-HOA. The $40,000 design-build renovation project included the rehabilitation of seven existing clinic rooms and construction of a two-room addition. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Jesse Awalt

Old Hickory Soldiers Sweep Palm Grove for Weapons Caches

Sgt. Vincent Bell of Charlotte, N.C., checks a radio during a sweep of a palm grove near Doura, June 13. Bell, an infantryman assigned to the North Carolina National Guard’s Company A, 252nd Combined Arms Battalion, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, battled thick underbrush and triple-digit temperatures during the search of the grove, which was outside Joint Security Station Doura near the Tigris River. Photo by Jon Soles

Wing Surpasses Historic 5K Combat Hour Mark in Single Month

An F-15 pilot and weapon system operator from the 336th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron prepare to take off for a close air support mission, June 9. Last month the 336th EFS and 74th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron together logged a total of more than 5,000 combat flight hours over Afghanistan. The F-15s and A-10s assigned here provide close air support and airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance for American and coalition ground troops. Photo by Staff Sgt. Jason Lake

Any Stephen Colbert fans out there? If so, you’ve probably seen or heard about Operation Iraqi Stephen: Going Commando. “We wanted to call it ‘Feelin HOT, HOT, HOT: Papa’s got a brand new Baghdad’, but it was too many words,” Colbert said.

In order to prepare for the trip, Colbert took “basic-basic training” at Fort Jackson, S.C. – the training lasted a total of eight hours, although Colbert said he “might have dipped out an hour early.”

After the training, Colbert was ready to take his show live to Baghdad, where it would be recorded, edited and sent back via satellite to the U.S. The United Service Organizations said this was a first for any overseas tour they have organized.

“It’s been fantastic,” he said of his welcoming. “All these people are so nice out here; I don’t understand why they want to fight with each other.”

Colbert noted that he didn’t know much about the country of Iraq, except what he’d learned during the few days he was at Camp Victory.

“It’s hot, it’s sandy, the sun is blazing. It seems like Texas, but with fewer guns,” Colbert said of Iraq. He added that if he were to describe the country to Americans, concrete and blast walls would sum the landscape, and he compared the air quality to that of an exhaust system. “Who had the idea to build an entire country in the tailpipe of a car?” he asked a crowd of about 400 people during his first show.

President Obama, Vice-President Joe Biden, John McCain, Sarah Palin and Tom Hanks sent out special thanks to the troops in pre-recorded messages that aired during the show. McCain’s comment to “always take the time to remember to clean your musket,” grew boisterous laughs, as people shook their heads in amusement. McCain said he learned the importance of a clean weapon during Valley Forge.

When asked if this was a great USO tour or the greatest USO tour, Colbert didn’t miss a beat when he answered “the greatest.” Camp Victory agrees.

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Building Foundations, Securing a Community

Spc. Justin Davis, foreground, an infantryman from Walkertown, N.C., and Staff Sgt. Robert Warmack, background, an infantry squad leader from Cove City, N.C., both assigned to Company A, 252nd Combined Arms Battalion, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, search overgrown vegetation during a joint cache and explosives sweep in Doura, here, June 10. “We’re checking these abandoned houses because bad guys are putting weapons caches and explosives in these,” said Warmack. “It’s a big deterrent for the bad guys if we’re out here more.” Photo by Staff Sgt. Mark Burrell

Joint Training Exercise Near Bahbahani, Iraq

Iraqi soldiers prepare to enter a house along with U.S. Soldiers from Echo Company, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade during a joint training exercise near Bahbahani, Iraq, June 4. Photo by Kim Smith

Operation Iraqi Stephen

Stephen Colbert interviews special guest Gen. Ray Odierno, commanding general of the Multi-National Force – Iraq during Monday night’s episode of “The Colbert Report.” Photo by Sgt. Lindsey Bradford

Stephen Colbert greets troops and civilians at Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory in Baghdad, Iraq, June 5, as part of his “Operation Iraqi Stephen: Going Command” tour. Photo by Sgt. Lindsey Bradford

Marine Training in the Desert Builds Small Unit Leadership

Scouts with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, run to their position on the firing line during the final portion of their range training in the Middle East. The training refined and refreshed the Marines’ fire and maneuvering skills, fire movement and combat marksmanship skills. The 13th MEU and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group are currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations. Photo by Cpl. Robert C. Medina

Soccer Ball and Toy Distribution in Choyoul, Iraq

U.S. Army Sgt. Jordan Sawyer attached to the 2nd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, gives a soccer ball to an Iraqi child in Choyoul, Iraq, June 6. The Kick For Nick Foundation, from Wilton, Conn., donated the soccer balls. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Robert J. Whelan

That was so many years ago – D-Day, June 6th 1944… recently, as happens every year, the date was remembered. If you think about what a massive feat that was, it’s pretty amazing. Not that what the US military is doing today isn’t amazing, but with the technology available back then (even though the US was still a technological superpower), it was quite a feat to mount an attack of that scale and push back the Nazi forces slowly but surely ALL the way back to Germany.

And Russia played a part as well, although we know what happened after the war. But now things are different over there. And we still have troops situated over there. And things are maybe a little tense in that region again – Eastern Europe and Asia – where they combine and come together in the -stan countries. The Black Sea. Oil. Missile Defense. A lot of hot topics in that area, but sometimes it’s good to look backward and see where we’ve been and what we were able to accomplish in the past.

Did you do anything special to remember Normandy and the D-Day invasion? If so, leave a comment below. I, and the rest of the people who read this site, would love to hear your story. A lot has happened in the world since then, but it’s still a dangerous place, one in which the United States is stepping up to the plate to help those in need all over the world. As we remember troops in the past, we should remember to give thanks and support to the troops who are currently serving all over the world.

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Band of Brothers

Actor Tom Hanks takes time out to pose with Army Reserve Sgt. Mark T. Leng at the 65th D-Day Anniversary ceremonies in Colleville Sur-Mer on June 6. Leng, who hails from Lexington, Ky., is assigned to the U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne), located at Fort Bragg, N.C. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Gonzalo (John) Gonzalez

65th Anniversary of D-Day

U.S. Army Airborne Soldiers re-enact the June 6, 1944, D-Day paratrooper jump over Sainte Mere-Eglise, France. It is a long tradition to commemorate the events of D-Day. Photo by Master Sgt. Cecilio Ricardo

Ceremony Honoring the Sailors and Marines Who Fought and Died at the Battle of Midway

Sailors aboard the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Thach bow their heads in prayer during a burial at sea ceremony for retired Cmdr. Dale Simmons, a former wingman of the ship’s namesake, Adm. Jimmy Thach. Thach’s crew also held a wreath laying ceremony in honor of all the Sailors and Marines who fought and died at the Battle of Midway. USS Thach is currently underway on a routine deployment in the Western Pacific. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Gonzalo (John) Gonzalez

Past Soldiers

D-Day enthusiasts from France suit up in full vintage U.S. Army uniforms from the World War II at a ceremony commemorating veterans of Omaha Beach, June 4. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Gonzalo (John) Gonzalez

British Paras

British paratroopers, or “Paras” as they are called, trained on May 30 with U.S. Soldiers as part of Operation Air Drop Warrior, a joint training exercise. The U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne) is the sole airborne command within the U.S. Army Reserve and is supporting the 65th D-Day Anniversary ceremonies. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Gonzalo (John) Gonzalez

The thing about the US military is that they do have air dominance in conflicts, but they also dominate heavy artillery, heavy armor, infantry, special forces and the seas. (Which has been proven recently with the actions against pirates in the Mideast, Africa, and elsewhere in the world.) By being competent in the air, on the sea, and by land, the US military is really able to get the situation under control and go from there. And having these powerful forces AFTER the battle is just as important, as is constantly being shown in the 21st century.

Future history may show that the 2000s were all about what happens after the bombs stop and the battle is taken to the ground. And after the gun battles are done. Oh, there are still conflicts in Iraq, but there are bad events in America and elsewhere in the world too. Things ARE getting better. The reports are showing that. It’s in black and white and hard to miss unless you’re not looking or are looking at other things (as the media tends to do most of the time.) This doesn’t have to be the case, though. Whether it’s the Navy, the Air Force, the Army, Marines, Coast Guard or the National Guard, there are a lot of brave young men and women (and OLD men and women) who are giving up for their country.
This is the highest kind of service people can perform for their country. Oh, there are other ways to make America better, but the men and women (in the air, on the seas, and on the ground) should all be appreciated for the big sacrifices they make to make their country (and the countries of foreigners!) safe and secure. This is a lot and deserves a lot in return. Most people do it willingly for little reward.

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Joint Presence Patrol in Mosul

U.S. Soldiers with 3rd Platoon, Bravo Company, 1st Battalion 161st Infantry, 81st Brigade Combat Team (Heavy), Washington Army National Guard, and members of the Iraqi Army walk down a steep hill during a joint presence patrol in the Abu Sayf District of Mosul, Iraq, June 1, 2009. Photo by Senior Airman Kamaile O. Chan

An Iraqi boy rides his bike in the Abu Sayf District of Mosul, Iraq, June 1, 2009. Photo by Senior Airman Kamaile O. Chan

“Jolly Rogers” on the Flight Deck

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the “Jolly Rogers” of Strike Fighter Squadron 103 approaches the deck of the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. Carrier Air Wing 7 and the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility on a scheduled deployment supporting Operation Enduring Freedom and maritime security operations. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Rafael Figueroa-Medina

HMCS Protecteur and USS Fitzgerald Replenishment

The Canadian navy replenishment oiler HMCS Protecteur conducts an underway replenishment with the guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald is one of seven Arleigh Burke-class destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15, and is permanently forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Byron C. Linder

I’ve been talking a lot lately about people and ideas, but there’s also a lot to say about technology. From how it helps the US dominate on the battlefield to how it helps them communicate and clean-up after the battle is over. One of the great things about the United States is its ability to quickly innovate and come up with new ideas to handle new situations. This is great for a military, and one of the reasons the US military does so well – both before and after the battle.

This has always been true. If you look at some of the pics below, you’ll see that it’s been true for the D-Day invasion at Normandy and even today, with robots and other advanced technology. Whatever the time period, the US military has been able to effectively leverage technological advantages to advantages on the battlefield. To maintain our superpower status, we’re going to have to maintain our technological superiority. This is a time tested solution for keeping America safe.

Luckily, the military, because of their funds, attract a lot of the best and brightest when it comes to technology and making things better – lasting longer, doing more with less. This is truly the American way and it shows day to day in the products and systems come up with by people at all levels of the military. If you agree with me that technology is important, leave a comment. Specifically, let me know about the types of technology you think are most important. That is, should we be researching offensive technologies, defensive technologies or both at the same levels? Thanks.
Sgt. Stryker out.

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Re-enactment Groups Bring D-Day Era Alive

Members of a re-enactment group park a restored World War II-era truck at the Airborne Festival in Sainte Mere Eglise, France, June 3. The festival, which coincides with events in the area commemorating the 65th anniversary of D-Day, features historic vehicles, weapons and other equipment in recreated World War II settings.Photo by Sgt. Fay Conroy

Maurice Lancelot, a member of the Normandie Souvenir Avenir World War II re-enactment group (foreground, wearing cap), talks to visitors at the Airborne Festival in Sainte Mere Elgise, France, June 3. The festival, which coincides with events in the area commemorating the 65th anniversary of D-Day, features historic vehicles, weapons and other equipment in recreated World War II settings. Photo by Sgt. Fay Conroy

A restored World War II era-Army car sits on display in a field at the Airborne Festival in Sainte Mere Eglise, France, June 3. The festival, which coincides with events in the area commemorating the 65th anniversary of D-Day, features historic vehicles, weapons and other equipment in recreated World War II settings. Photo by Sgt. Fay Conroy

Battery Replacement Project
A Talon Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot with new batteries is displayed at the Office of Naval Research technical solutions department to showcase the recently completed battery replacement project. The battery replacement project was prompted by a request from the II Marine Expeditionary Force, 8th Engineering Battalion and resulted in a solution provided by Penn State University’s Applied Research Laboratory that utilizes standard military batteries. Photo by John Williams

Master Chief Steve French and Laura Smith operate a Talon Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot during an Office of Naval Research Technical Solutions demonstration of the recently completed battery replacement project. The battery replacement project was prompted by a request from the II Marine Expeditionary Force, 8th Engineering Battalion and resulted in a solution provided by Penn State University’s Applied Research Laboratory that utilizes standard military batteries. Photo by John Williams