Whether you’re talking about the US military, NATO, or even the Afghan National Army, training is of upmost importance. As you may know the US Military has some of the best training in the world – military or civilian. If not the best. That’s saying a lot, but if you look at the size of the US military and how efficiently it operates, it’s pretty amazing. Anyway, that doesn’t mean that training shouldn’t be important for upcoming countries like the new Afghanistan. In fact, for them, it’s possibly more important than almost anything else in that country at the moment. The thing is, the US is in a great position to help train Afghanistan to be able to stand on their own – both in civilian ways and militarily.

The Afghan government, its citizens and Afghan national security forces throughout Nuristan province are taking full advantage of the skills, training and mentoring provided by Task Force Mountain Warrior service members to improve the security and quality of life for the people in the province.

Afghan national police, assigned to Nuristan Gov. Jamaluddin Badr’s personal security detail, conducted weapons training alongside Task Force Mountain Warrior service members with the Nuristan Provincial Reconstruction Team at Forward Operating Base Kalagush in Nuristan province, Afghanistan, July 23. The 10 ANP officers demonstrated outstanding marksmanship. At the conclusion of the training ANP Gen. Qasim presented the policemen with certificates for their outstanding achievement.

Construction of the Wama District Center began with a ground-breaking ceremony, July 20. A construction company gathered along with local villagers and leaders to start digging the foundation. The sub-governor, Din Muhammed, and the local police chief laid the first stone. The ceremony also included a luncheon sponsored by the construction company.

Nuristan PRT sponsors a weekly training session for local villagers to learn basic construction skills. An Afghan engineer, Zalmi, conducts the classroom training for villagers who participate. Those who attend the class at least three times are given ten bags of concrete per week for a project that will benefit their village. With regular attendance and project progress reports, each student continues to receive bags of concrete for their project.

This is the kind of good news we need coming out of Afghanistan.

Sgt. Stryker out.

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Logistics Marines Spend the Day Flinging Steel

Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 27, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, finish throwing practice grenades and sprint toward z live fire range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 22. The logistics and support Marines of CLR-27 spent the day at the grenade range re-familiarizing themselves with the weapon and helping boost their confidence in the use of hand grenades. Photo by Lance Cpl. James W. Clark

A M67 fragmentation grenade thrown by a Marine from Combat Logistics Regiment 27, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, explodes, hurling shrapnel and kicking up dust on a training range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 23. The logistics and support Marines of CLR-27 spent the day at the grenade range re-familiarizing themselves with the weapon and helping boost their confidence in the use of hand grenades. Photo by Lance Cpl. James W. Clark

Colorado Soldiers Conduct Close Quarter Combat Training

Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battery and Battery A, 3rd Battalion, 157th Field Artillery, Colorado Army National Guard, 115th Fires Brigade, practice responding to the commands from range control at the short-range marksmanship range at Fort Hood, Texas, May 19. This range, unlike others they have gone to before, requires Soldiers to engage targets while moving and also while shooting very close to their buddies. “This training allows you to distinguish targets, which is not only for the safety of Soldiers, but also civilians,” said Staff Sgt. Albert Trujillo of HHB.

More than 100 Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battery and Battery A, 3rd Battalion, 157th Field Artillery, Colorado Army National Guard, 115th Fires Brigade, listen to the initial briefing upon arriving at the short-range marksmanship range at Fort Hood, Texas, May 19. This training is among the required training tasks Soldiers must successfully accomplish prior to deploying to Iraq this summer. Photo by Staff Sgt. Liesl Marelli

Sgt. Stryker here. I’m back. There’s been a lot of action surrounding the drug trade in Afghanistan. Poppy production is one of the major ways the taliban raise cash to fund their terror. Because of this, it’s important for the coalition to back Afghanistan when she tries to stop the drug problem in the country. Afghanistan has a long history with drugs. Unfortunately, most of the money made from growing and moving drugs has been spent not on helping the Afghan people, but buying weapons to terrorize them. This is a problem – one of the big picture problems in Afghanistan if you ask me.

Earlier this month, a raid in southern Helmand province yielded homemade explosives, materials for improvised explosive devices and more than 1,600 bags of poppy seeds. Marines from 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan stacked the narcotics and set them ablaze, dealing a major blow to Taliban forces operating in southern Afghanistan.

The Marines also discovered poppy fields outside Safaar, and with the help of Marine Aircraft Group 40, Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, were able to take these valuable crops out of enemy hands. Insurgents used both the bazaars of Safaar and Lakari in Afghanistan to store narcotics, in addition to the ingredients needed to create weapons. Jay Fitzpatrick, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s assistant regional director for southern and western Afghanistan, said the Taliban has used these bazaars, due to their location to the Helmand River valley, because it provides insurgents a fertile trail to follow.

The actions taken by the MEB-Afghanistan Marines, Afghan national police and the DEA will not prevent future poppy crops from being planted, but dealt a blow to the Taliban, Fitzpatrick said. About 300 tons of poppy seeds were seized from both bazaars in the previous two days.

“More of it came out of Safaar,” said Fitzpatrick.” Ultimately, 297 tons will populate 18,000 hectares. The figures differ, but we say about six to eight percent of the heroin from this region makes it to [U.S.] borders,” Fitzpatrick said. “The money derived from narcotics fuels the insurgency’s effort, so it’s our job to come out here through interdiction to take the money out of the pockets of the insurgents so they’re less capable to fund their efforts against us and the world. It is a global problem.”

The process followed by the Taliban starts from farmers raising poppy crops. From there, the harvested poppies are transported to markets in Europe, Iran and Russia. Through local markets, the final product is sold, Fitzpatrick explained.

“Eventually, the money makes its way back through the chains to Afghanistan, where it’s utilized by insurgents to buy arms, buy the homemade explosive devices and chemicals they need,” Fitzpatrick said. “It’s a process that’s been going on for a long time.”

Many Afghan farmers have experienced pressure from the Taliban, as well as a need to grow poppy crops for a source of income. A poppy harvest can be stored for up to one year before going bad, providing the farmer enough time to sell to the highest bidder.

“It comes down to making a living,” Fitzpatrick said. “What’s derived from it puts food on the table. Hopefully, we can eventually talk these folks into alternative livelihoods, whether its wheat or pomegranates or different crops like that.”

This is a sad way for them to live. Things are going to get better as the coalition forces begin to introduce other ways to make money in the country.

Sgt. Stryker out.

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Transiting Pearl Harbor

Sailors aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain observe the USS Missouri and the USS Arizona memorials while transiting Pearl Harbor. Lake Champlain is on a scheduled deployment as part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of responsibility supporting global maritime security. Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Daniel Barker

Afghan National Police and U.S. Troops Search for Caches in Khowst Province

U.S. Army Spc. Jonathan Araiza, right, rests after searching a cave for enemy weapons caches near Shah Wali Zarat, Khowst province, Afghanistan, July 24. Araiza is deployed with A Company, 425th Brigade Special Troops Battalion (Airborne), 4-25 Brigade Combat Team. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrew Smith

Coalition Forces Train for Urban Operations

A Marine from Company Kilo, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines pulls a casualty to safety during a mock assault at the Urban Operations Training Facility at Shoalwater Bay, Australia, July 22, as part of Exercise Talisman Saber 2009. Australian soldiers from 3 Royal Australian Regiment and Marines from 3/5 participated in the assault to practice operating in urban combat. TS09 is a biennial combined training activity, designed to train Australian and U.S. forces in planning and conducting combined task force operations, which will help improve Australian Defence Force/U.S. combat readiness and inter-operability. Photo by Cpl. Cristina Noelia Gil

Strike Fighter Squadron 113 ‘Stingers’ Support Operation Enduring Freedom

An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the “Stingers” of Strike Fighter Squadron 113 embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, returns from a mission supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Ronald Reagan is currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. Operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations are focused on reassuring regional partners of the United States’ commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity. Photo by Cmdr. Erik Etz

You may not have heard about it, but back on July 18, two U.S. Air Force officers were killed the morning of July 18 in the crash of an F-15E. The aircraft was flying in support of coalition operations in eastern Afghanistan. The crash occurred at approximately 3:15 a.m., Kabul time.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families and loved ones … and to the Airmen and the Joint and coalition team members who called them friends and will miss their fellow warriors,” said Lt. Gen. Gary North, Commander U.S. Air Forces Central.

A team of U.S. and Coalition forces immediately responded to the crash site, secured it and recovered the Airmen, who will be returned to their families through a dignified transfer from Afghanistan to the United States. The crash was not due to hostile fire. A board of officers will be convened to conduct a thorough investigation of the incident.

Sometimes it’s not even the enemy. Deaths of soldiers is a serious matter any way you look at it. This is true today more than ever before. And yet it’s worth it because we’re out there helping. In Afghanistan for example, the Afghan national army, coalition forces and villagers from Bartow village (in the Uruzgan province) recently gathered to build a bridge over an irrigation ditch.

ANA and coalition forces joined 40 villagers to help build a culvert in an irrigation ditch to facilitate the movement of vehicles through the district. The village elders had pre-arranged the labor force to be present when the joint force arrived. In only three hours the culvert was complete.

After completing the culvert, the villagers were provided humanitarian assistance and hand tools. This goes a long way in helping the local economy and building trust with the locals, which is very, very important.

So the deaths – accidental or not – are not in vain.

Sgt. Stryker out.

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Afghan Soldiers Help Villagers Build Bridge in Uruzgan Province

Villagers from the Bartow village, Uruzgan province, receive humanitarian assistance and hand tools from the the Afghan national army and coalition forces after completing a culvert to facilitate the movement of vehicles through the district.

A local tractor owner in the Bartow village, Uruzgan province, helps villagers, the Afghan national army, and coalition forces by moving large amounts of rock and dirt onto the completed culvert foundation.

Villagers from the Bartow village, Uruzgan province, with the help of the Afghan national army and coalition forces, place rocks between welded barrels making a foundation for a culvert to facilitate the movement of vehicles through the district.

While summer is a time for breaks for most of us, the US military is hard at work around the world, taking care of problems as they arise. It only happens infrequently, but there are celebrities working hard as well to support the troops. Angelina Jolie recently went to Baghdad to bring some morale to the troops stationed there. As you might imagine, she was welcomed – with more than a few open arms. Haha.

In more serious matter, a combined Afghan-coalition force searched a compound in Khowst province on July 19, 2009, and disrupted a Haqqani network cell operating within the region. They were making improvised explosive devices. The joint force searched the compound near the village of Ya’ Qubi, about 20 km northeast of the city of Khowst, after intelligence indicated militant activity. A search was conducted without incident and one suspected militant was detained.

The Haqqani network remains one of the most lethal Taliban organizations operating out of Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Area. Haqqani leaders conduct operations in conjunction with other Islamic militant groups with similar goals and interests. The network focuses operations against the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Afghan national security forces, and seeks to expel coalition and NATO forces from Afghanistan to maintain its influence in eastern provinces.

Elsewhere in Afghanistan, key leaders with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 3, participated in a tribal shura at the Afghan police compound next to Patrol Base Jaker. Around 300 local elders representing the seven tribes in the Nawa District were present at the shura. The Nawa District Chief of Police, Haji Mohammed Nafez Khan, and the Afghan national army commander for the Nawa District, Captain Saki Dad, were also in attendance.

Lt. Col. William McCollough, commanding officer of 1/5, said, “This was the first time in over a year that this many elders felt safe enough to travel to the district center and make their concerns known.”

Many of the local Afghans used the shura to speak about the need to understand the difference between good and bad Taliban, which was a common topic from the locals who spoke. Abdul Bari, a local national who spoke at the shura, stated that “Talib” means “student” and went on to say being a religious student is not a bad thing.

The local nationals also expressed concern about the locations of checkpoints, perceived unauthorized entry into local compounds and homes, respect for their religion and culture as well as the presence and intentions of the International Security Assistance Force personnel.

These are all important points. With the many lessons learned in Iraq and elsewhere in the Middle East, I expect things to start looking up in Afghanistan.

What do you think?

Sgt Stryker out.

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Talisman Saber 2009

An MH-53E Sea Stallion helicopter, assigned to the Air Combat Element of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex, prepares to lift an M777 105 mm lightweight Howitzer as a part of exercise Talisman Saber 2009. Talisman Saber is a biennial, combined training activity designed to train Australian and U.S. forces in planning and conducting combined operations, which will help improve combat readiness and interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Mark Alvarez

Marines, Afghan Security Forces Meet With Hundreds of Village Elders in Helmand

A meeting between key leaders with 1st Battalion 5th Marines and Nawa District officials in the Nawa District, Helmand province, Afghanistan on July 19. Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 3, 2D Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan, are deployed in support of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force and will participate in counter-insurgency operations and training and mentoring the Afghan national security forces to improve security and stability in Afghanistan. Photo by Lance Cpl. James Purschwitz

USS Carl Vinson Action

An aircraft director guides an F/A-18 Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron to the No. 2 catapult aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson. Carl Vinson is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting flight deck certification after completing its scheduled refueling complex overhaul at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding. The overhaul was an extensive yard period that all Nimitz-class aircraft carriers go through near the mid-point of their 50-year life cycle. Carl Vinson’s nuclear fuel was replenished and the ship’s services and infrastructure upgraded to make her the most state-of-the-art aircraft carrier in the fleet. Photo by Seaman Stephen Rowe

On USS Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Flight Deck

A French Dassault Rafale performs a touch and goes on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower during a coalition training exercise. The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility after a regularly-scheduled five month deployment in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Maritime Security Operations. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Rafael Figueroa-Medina

Wherever the US military goes, working with the locals (winning hearts and minds so to speak) is almost as important (if not more) than the amount of firepower we bring to bear on wherever we happen to be in the world. Or our air dominance. Or our dominance on the open seas. More important than all the hardware is soldiers and generals and everyone in between comes together to remember the big picture of what’s going on.

In Iraq, we’ve been there a while now and things are getting better all the time. This is because we’ve worked so closely with the locals on the ground in different areas of that country. It has taken a while to rebuild (and the rebuilding is still happening), but things are looking up. More and more every day, every week, every month. Pretty soon, things will be better there than they have been in a long, long time. This is because of the military’s commitment to winning over the people and getting them involved.

On the other side of Iran (aka Afghanistan), we’re starting to really see signs of all the seeds we’ve planted in that country. It’s not only poppy flowers growing. Relationships – man to man, country to country – are happening all over and the people – the everyday people like you and I – they’re standing up and saying, “no more!” And with our help, they’re taking control of their country from those that would torture and destroy.

As for Iran? Well, I haven’t talked about that much yet. President Obama seems to have handled it okay, I think. What do you think?

Sgt. Stryker out.

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Soldiers Visit Iraqi Kids During Convoy Security Halt

U.S. Soldiers from Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, talk with Iraqi kids in Maysan province during a security halt on a tactical convoy from Forward Operating Base Hunter to al Sheeb, Iraq, Jan. 24. Photo by Staff Sgt. Brendan Stephens

Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan Soldier Establishes Rapport With Locals Outside Bastion

A soldier from the Afghan national army steps through a poppy field during a foot patrol, Thursday, June 4, in Settlement Two outside of Camp Bastion in Helmand province, Afghanistan. The ANA soldiers were able to establish a vehicle check point before the patrol, helping them gain control of the area. Photo by Cpl. Michael Curvin

Army Capt. Steven J. Lacy, a team leader with Human Terrain Team, Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, is flanked by a soldier with the Afghan national army during a foot patrol, Thursday, June 4, in Settlement Two outside of Camp Bastion in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Lacy had an opportunity to speak with many villagers during the patrol to better understand their needs. Photo by Cpl. Michael Curvin

A soldier with the U.K. distributes candy to an Afghan boy, Thursday, June 4, in Settlement Two outside of Camp Bastion in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Service members with Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, the U.K. Army and Afghan national army worked together to man a vehicle checkpoint patrol through the settlement. Photo by Cpl. Michael Curvin

If you’ve been reading, you know things are heating up in Afghanistan in more ways than one. What needs to be pointed out (again and again) is that the Afghani people (like the Iraqi people) are starting to step up and help – as a nation – against the bad guys in Afghanistan, wherever they’re coming from. This is so important it needs to be stressed. This is the hearts and minds and we’re winning them and the battle is turning.

For instance, a joint Afghan and coalition force detained one suspected militant after searching a compound on July 12, 2009 in Ghazni province as part of an ongoing effort to disrupt the flow of foreign fighters into the region. The combined force targeted a compound, near the village of Jahangir Kalay, which is about 100 kilometers southwest from the city of Ghazni. They went into action after receiving intelligence that indicated militant activity in the area. The force conducted the search without incident.

Ghazni province has seen increasing militant violence aimed at disrupting governance and security in the region. Militants continually seek to establish strongholds in the province to facilitate the movement of fighters, explosives and weapons into the country. No casualties occurred during this operation.

Again, though, the point is that Afghanistan – the new 21st century Afghanistan – is standing up on its own and with support from the US (and other nations) they’re starting to turn the tables on militants and others who would wish harm on the ancient (and yet newly born) nation in one of the hottest regions in the world recently. (And by recently I mean the last few hundred years at least…) Maybe it’s the barren landscape, the harsh inhospitality of the country. Whatever it is, they’ve been through a lot and now they’re getting help – publicly.

Sgt. Stryker out.

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Afghan, Coalition Forces Secure Barge Matal Mountains

A member of the Afghan national army calls for help as a member of the Afghan border police fires at Anti Afghanistan Forces in the mountains surrounding Barge Matal in Afghanistan’s eastern Nuristan province, during Operation Mountain Fire, July 12. Afghan national security forces and International Security Assistance Force’s fought side by side during gun battle, which started in late afternoon and lasted until coalition and ANSF forces forced the insurgents to flee in the early evening. Photo by Sgt. Matthew Moeller

Gun Battle During Operation Mountain Fire in Nuristan Province, Afghanistan

A U.S. Army Soldier with 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, scans for insurgent forces as small arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades hit near U.S. and Afghan military positions inside the village of Barge Matal, during Operation Mountain Fire, in Nuristan province, Afghanistan, July 12. International Security Assistance Forces alongside Afghan national security forces repelled the late afternoon attack. Photo by Sgt. Matthew Moeller

A U.S. Army Soldier with 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, fires at anti-Afghanistan forces in the hills surrounding the remote village of Barge Matal during Operation Mountain Fire, in Afghanistan’s Nuristan province, July 12. U.S. and Afghan national security forces quickly secured the tiny mountain village, which was overwhelmed by AAF several days prior. Photo by Sgt. Matthew Moeller

Mortar Blasts Away During Operation Mountain Warrior

U.S. Army Soldiers with 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, fire mortar rounds at suspected Taliban fighting positions during Operation Mountain Fire, in the village of Barge Matal in eastern Nuristan province, Afghanistan, July 12. During the Operation, U.S. and Afghan national security forces secured the remote mountain village, which was overwhelmed by insurgent forces several days prior. Photo by Sgt. Matthew Moeller

Sgt. Stryker here. I’ve been thinking about the creature comforts I’ve grown used to – air conditioning, safety, etc. For the troops in the field (especially in Afghanistan), they may not have any of these luxuries and yet they still do everything they can to help the rest of the world. Amidst this hellish heat, there’s progress being made. U.S. Marines and the Afghan national army recently occupied (by force) the Khan Nechion castle in south Helmand province. An Afghan national flag was raised for the first time.

Afghan and coalition forces searched two compounds last week in Khowst province in an effort to disrupt the flow of weapons, suicide bombers and foreign fighters into the region. The combined military force detained six suspected militants, including two suspected Haqqani commanders. The force also confiscated two AKM rifles, two shotguns, a rifle with optic device, a pistol, multiple chest racks, a camera, multimedia devices, blasting caps and fragmentation material.

Elsewhere, Afghan and coalition forces conducted an operation in Ghazni province’s Giro district to disrupt the Taliban network’s operational and logistical support lines of ambush units in the region. The force encountered hostile fire from one of the compounds and engaged the militants, resulting in several killed and one wounded. Forces also pursued and killed several armed militants who fled the compound. The force detained four suspected militants during the operation.

The force also confiscated 21 grenades, nine rocket-propelled grenades, three rocket-propelled grenade launchers, a loaded automatic weapon, seven chest racks, more than a thousand rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and a roadside bomb with command wire, five blasting caps, multimeter and circuit boards.

As you can see, things are heating up in Afghanistan in more way than one. If you pay attention to what’s going on instead of listening to talk about Michael Jackson on the cable news networks, you would know this. Or you could keep reading my blog.

Sgt. Stryker out.

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Living in Afghanistan

At Firebase Fiddler’s Green, Marines live in tents without air conditioning with temperatures well above 100 degrees. The Marines at Fiddler’s Green are a part of 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment and serve as the artillery batallion for Regimental Combat Team 3 in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Marines Continue to Train Despite Harsh Afghan Weather

U.S. Marines stationed in southern Afghanistan practice their hand to hand combat skills in the hot Afghan sun. The combat training took place after a three mile run in body armor with their weapons in hand. Temperatures in the southern region average well above 100 degrees during the summer months. International forces are serving here to bring security and stability to Afghanistan. Photo by 1st Lt. Dave Hecht

Logar Improvised Explosive Device Blast

A large crater is all that remains in the road after an improvised explosive device attack in the Mohammad Agha district of Logar province in eastern Afghanistan, July 9. The blast resulted in the deaths of 24 Afghans, including four Afghan national policemen and 12 children. The attack also injured an unknown number of people, demolished a nearby building and damaged nearby vehicles.

Afghan Flag Raises Above Khan Neshin

The Afghan national flag was raised above Khan Neshin castle in the Rig District Center, July 8, for the first time, signaling the arrival of Afghan governance in the southern reaches of Helmand province. Photo by Cpl. Aaron Rooks

2/8 Marines, Afghan Soldiers Continue Operation Khanjar

U.S. Marines with the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment and Afghani soldiers maintain security during an operation in the Helmand province of Afghanistan, July 5. The 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment’s presence restricts enemy groups? freedom of movement and helps to restore peace and prosperity to the local populace. The 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment is part of the ground combat element of Regiment Combat Team 3, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

U.S. Marines Secure Southernmost Point of Operations in Afghanistan

Within minutes of unloading heavy equipment earthmovers, the U.S. Marine Corps begins construction on Combat Outpost Payne. The COB is being built by Combat Logistics Battalion-8 with support from Engineering Support Battallion-8. The officer in charge of the construction project said COB Payne will be completed within 96 hours of their arrival at what is now the southernmost point of operations for the U.S. Marine Corps in Afghanistan. The mission also calls for a bridge to be built across the Helmand River and the rebuilding of the district governor’s compound that until the Marine’s arrival, was taken over by insurgent forces. Photo by 1st Lt. Dave Hecht

Sgt. Stryker here. I’ve been thinking a lot about Russia lately. You remember them, right? After the fall of communism people don’t think about them much, but they’re still a mighty force in the world with a lot of nuclear weapons. Not only that, their

Addressing an audience at the New Economic School in Moscow o July 7th, 2009, President Barack Obama spoke about reducing nuclear arsenals, negotiating a missile defense program in Europe, and security topics such as Afghanistan and NATO.

“Together, we can build a world where people are protected, prosperity is enlarged, and our power truly serves progress,” he said. “And it is all in your hands.”

With these words, he talked to the post-Cold War world about the realities of the day.

* * *

“America has an interest in reversing the spread of nuclear weapons and preventing their use. That is why America is committed to stopping nuclear proliferation, and ultimately seeking a world without nuclear weapons,” Obama said. “And while I know this goal won’t be met soon, pursuing it provides the legal and moral foundation to prevent the proliferation and eventual use of nuclear weapons.”

* * *

“I’m pleased that Russia has agreed to allow the United States to supply our coalition forces through your territory,” Obama said. “Neither America nor Russia has an interest in an Afghanistan or Pakistan governed by the Taliban.

* * *

“It is time to work together on behalf of a different future – a future in which we leave behind the great game of the past and the conflict of the present; a future in which all of us contribute to the security of Central Asia,” he said, alluding to the 19th and early 20th century geopolitical competition for Central Asian dominance known as the “Great Game.”

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Operation Enduring Freedom

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 3, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, along with approximately 650 Afghan soldiers and police officers from the Afghan national security force, prepare to board CH-53D Sea Stallion and CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters at Forward Operating Base Dwyer, Afghanistan, July 2. The Marines and ANSF are partnered for a major operation in the Helmand province to transition security responsibilities to the Afghan forces. The Marines and ANSF will move into towns and villages along the Helmand River Valley in an effort to secure the population from the threat of the Taliban and other insurgent intimidation and violence. Photo by Philippe E. Chasse

Iraqi Forces Lead Air Assault Operations

U.S. Army Spc. Corey Weinheimer from Clyde, Ohio, with 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, provides security during a joint air assault operation planned and led by the Iraqi army and Iraqi national police in the Ma’dain area east of Baghdad, Iraq, June 26. The Soldiers search for weapons caches and insurgent activity during one of the largest air assault operations conducted in the Multi-National Division – Baghdad area since the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Photo by Staff Sgt. James Selesnick

U.S. Army Sgt. Joey Benavides, of 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, observes the objective through a rifle mounted advanced combat optic while manning a support by fire position during a joint air assault operation planned and led by the Iraqi army and Iraqi national police in the Ma’dain area, east of Baghdad, Iraq, June 26. Photo by Staff Sgt. James Selesnick

U.S. Army Spc. Michael Dedonato of Carnegie, Pa., with 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, monitors a radio during an air assault operation planned and led by the Iraqi army and Iraqi national police in the Ma’dain area east of Baghdad, Iraq, June 26. Photo by Staff Sgt. James Selesnick

Iraqi soldiers and U.S. Soldiers of 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division wait for helicopters to transport them back to Forward Operating Base Hammer after participating in an air assault operation planned and led by the Iraqi army and Iraqi national police, in the Ma’dain area, east of Baghdad, Iraq, June 26. Photo by Staff Sgt. James Selesnick

Sgt Stryker here. Things progress in Afghanistan. (I’ll have info soon on the new Noah’s Ark the Sea Bees are building over there. It’s quite a feat! First things first, though.)

U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers and police are continuing clearing operations in key population centers along the Helmand River valley as part of operation Khanjar. It is an effort to secure the local Afghan population from the threat of Taliban and other insurgent intimidation and violence.

Almost 4,000 Marines and Sailors from Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, along with more than 600 Afghan national security forces, are currently operating in the districts of Nawa and Garmsir in central Helmand province. MEB forces are operating as far south as the vicinity of Khan Neshin, the capital of Rig district in the region of the Helmand River valley known as “The Fishhook.”

The Marines and Afghan forces are continuing to patrol and have begun engaging with key leaders in the districts in order to better understand the concerns and needs of Afghans in the area. Once security is established, civil affairs personnel and other non-governmental organizations and agencies will begin establishing programs aimed at building long-term governance and development throughout the Helmand River valley.

One Marine has been killed in action, and several others have been injured or wounded since the operation began. Yesterday, south of Garmsir, one Afghan man began to approach a group of Marines and was warned to stop. He did not stop, despite a series of warning indicators being employed. The man continued to walk toward the Marines at a rapid pace without saying anything to them. A warning shot was fired, and when he still did not stop, a Marine fired a single shot, wounding the man. U.S. Navy corpsmen immediately treated the man, and he was evacuated by MEB forces to Bost hospital in the provincial capital of Lashkar Gah, where he is in stable condition.

It’s still dangerous out there, but a lot is being done. As you’ll see coming up with a post about the Afghanistan Noah’s Ark being built, there’s a lot of progress happening as well. As Iraq becomes safer and safer, eyes are turning back toward Afghanistan where it’s also about more than the missiles.

Sgt. Stryker out.

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Essex Sailors Demonstrate Firefighting Skills

Sailors assigned to the air department crash and salvage team of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex fight a simulated class bravo fire on the flight deck of the ship. Essex is in port and scheduled to participate in Talisman Saber 2009, a series of training exercises hosted by the Australian defense force. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Nardelito Gervacio

USS Ronald Reagan Activity

U.S. Navy 1st Lt. Glen Bourque, commander, communicates with all stations from Deck Control aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan during a replenishment at sea evolution with fast combat support ship USNS Rainier. Bourque is in charge of transporting cargo via highlines and fuel via spanwires from Rainier to Ronald Reagan. Ronald Reagan is underway on a routine deployment in the Indian Ocean. Photo by Oliver Cole

Launching Off the Flight Deck

An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the “Pukin’ Dogs” of Strike Fighter Squadron 143 launches off the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations as part of a regularly scheduled deployment in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom as well as Maritime Security Operations. MSO in the U.S. 5th Fleet are focused on reassuring regional partners of the United States’ commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity. Photo by Seaman Apprentice Jon Dasbach

U.S Soldiers Patrol Basra’s Five Mile Market

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Ramon Ramos from Hollister, Calif., with 445th Civil Affairs Battalion, walks with Iraqi children during a foot patrol into Five Mile Market, Basra, Iraq, June 22. Photo by Staff Sgt. Chrissy Best

Sgt. Stryker here. Hope everyone out there is doing well – whether you’re in the military or you have a friend or loved one (or even a loved friend!) in the military, here’s wishing you well. While the people in the United States prepare to celebrate Independence Day, the US military continues to do their duty around the world, bringing freedom and security to people all over the world. We should make an effort not to forget these people as we celebrate Fourth of July 2009.

All the hard work and dedication is paying off, though. For instance, in Iraq, in accordance with Article Five of the Security Agreement between the United States and the government of Iraq, signed in Baghdad in November of last year, Iraqi security forces now have full ownership of security in their cities, villages and localities. This switchover took place June 30, 2009.

“As of today, U.S. combat forces will turn over the security of cities to Iraqi security forces, and begin a period where our primary security role is one of training, mentoring and advising the ISF,” said Maj. Gen. Rick Nash, Multi-National Division – South commander. “Today’s ISF is capable, ready and dedicated to keeping the people of Iraq safe.”

“Leaving the cities does not mean that we are backing off; instead, it indicates our confidence in the Iraqis to safeguard their own citizens. Likewise, the Security Agreement is a tangible, positive sign of a mature relationship between two sovereign nations,” said Nash.

In accordance with the Security Agreement U.S. forces will withdraw from all Iraqi territory by Dec. 31, 2011.

There are those out there who wanted to cut and run earlier, but the fruits of all the labor poured into Iraq ARE showing if you’re looking. Problem is most people aren’t looking. And that’s just sad.

Sgt. Stryker out.

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Military Transition Team Marines Build Professionalism and Friendships

Maj. Jacob Evans, team chief for Military Transition Team 0228, instructs an Iraqi soldier on the proper placement of the flag on a uniform aboard Camp Hamza, Iraq, June 25. Fostering friendships is a vital part of working with members of the Iraqi military. Photo by Lance Cpl. Jason Hernandez

U.S. Navy Ceremonial Band

Petty Officer 1st Class Eric Lopez, a member of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Band, performs during a Twilight Tattoo ceremony at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Md. The band, based in Washington, D.C., is the Navy’s premier musical organization and performs public concerts and military ceremonies in the greater Washington area and beyond. Photo by Christina M. Catalanotto

Iraqis Lead Air Assault

Sgt. 1st Class Thavee Salayphonh, of Visalia, Calif., takes a knee on the edge on a trench overlooking the terrain during Operation Winged Lion II, an Iraqi-led air assault clearance mission, June 26, in the Ma’dain region, located outside of eastern Baghdad. Salayphonh and his fellow paratroopers assigned to K Troop, 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry, 82nd Airborne Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad supported national police officers assigned to the 3rd NP Brigade, 1st NP Division during an Iraqi-led air assault clearance operation dubbed “Operation Winged Lion II.” Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Alex Licea

Memorial Service

Chief petty officers render a hand salute during a reading of “The Watch” during a memorial service honoring the life of fallen Command Master Chief Jeffrey J. Garber onboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations as part of a regularly scheduled deployment in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom as well as maritime security operations. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Rafael Figueroa-Medina

Evening Flight Operations

An AV-8B Harrier lands aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan during evening flight operations. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group is supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Kristopher Wilson