Additional articles 1.31.2005

The Gaylord Herald Times, MI, has a followup report on wounded 2nd BCT soldier Pfc. Derrick Harden. Pfc. Harden, of the 1-503rd, was wounded on 1.17.2005 in Ramadi when his Humvee was hit by an I.E.D. According to the article, "During two separate operations [in Germany], several pieces of shrapnel had to be removed from his face, his right leg was amputated below the knee, and an artery in his right arm was tied off in an effort to save it," and he underwent another surgery at walter Reed hospital on 1.26.2005. According to the pastor of the family's church, "He's still in critical condition, but he's better than he was the night before." The church is holding a candlelight prayer service for Pfc. Harden this Sunday, and is helping raise donations to cover expenses for family members to be at his side.
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NBC News has an article on the election in Ramadi and the response of the 2/5 Marines. According to the article, 1700 votes were cast in Ramadi (About 1% of eligible voters), 7500 were cast in Fallujah, and 15,000 across the Anbar province (those numbers are similar to but lower than those reported in the LA Times). Also, "While there are no precise census data, U.S. military sources believe that in the end up to 10 percent of Al Anbar’s Sunnis voted." Several 2/5 Marines are quoted. The article portrays the Marines' impressions as being happy about the overall vote, dissapointed in the vote in Ramadi (especially considering the massive PR effort), and some concern that the insurgency will continue in the area if the Sunni population isn't included in the governing process.
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The NY Times (reg req'd) mentions voting in the Anbar province: "In the weeks leading up to the vote, election officials took several extraordinary measures to make voting easier in Sunni areas. They allowed voters in some of those areas to register on election day, and permitted voters to travel outside their neighborhoods to cast ballots. In some of the smaller villages around Ramadi, where many city residents were encouraged to vote, election workers reported that they had run out of ballots. In the refugee camps outside Falluja, set up after heavy fighting there in November, Iraqi officials reported steady voting."In Anbar, the number of votes were very good compared to our estimates," Mr. Ayar, the election commission spokesman, said of that province, without telling what those estimates were. "We did not expect a lot of turnout, but we found a lot of people standing in line in Anbar. Adnan Pachachi, the former Iraqi foreign minister and one of the country's most prominent Sunni candidates, said his own reports suggested that participation by Sunnis might have reached as high as 40 percent. If that holds, he said, it would amount to a repudiation of the violent way."
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Other articles:
- AFP: Sunni clerics maintain rejection of Iraq election
- Reuters: Diplomats, analysts say Iraq insurgency still strong
- Reuters: Counting 'going well' in Iraq's historic vote
- BBC: Analysis: A turning point for Iraq?

Other articles 1.31.2005

The Forsyth News, GA has an article on Capt. Randal Robison, the chaplain for the 1-506th Infantry. Cpt. Robison applied and received approval to recognize his hometown of Cumming, GA, during “Camp Cumming Day” at the unit’s base in Habbaniyah. According to the article, his current duties "include counseling the soldiers, performing services on Sundays, baptisms and funerals", as well as leading Bible study classes for soldiers.
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The Bloomington-Normal Pantagraph, IL, has an article on a local citizen sending care packages to soldiers in the 2nd Forward Support Battalion. Ginni Schori, the co-worker of the the mother of 2nd FSB soldier Spc. Matt Eaton, organized, collected donations and mailed "Christmas gifts to all 100 people in Eaton's unit." As a thank you, the unit sent a 2nd FSB flag with dozens of notes and signatures from soldiers.

Election news 1.31.2005

According to Reuters, the current estimates for voter turnout across Iraq stand at around 60% (lowered from the earlier reported 72%), or 8 million of the 13 million registered voters. This was above the expected 50% turnout and - in the big picture - the elections were deemed a success by most accounts. However, the turnout was extremely low across parts of the Sunni Triangle where the 2nd BCT operates (estimated 17,000 ballots cast in the Anbar province out of 250,000 eligible voters). The rest of the articles below discuss the low turnout in those areas:
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Embedded Stars & Stripes reporter Joseph Giordono has an article on the low voter turnout in Ramadi. According to the article, "Security concerns, roadside bombs and a series of brief gunbattles kept most Ramadi citizens from participating in Sunday’s historic Iraqi elections." U.S. and Iraqi officials estimated that around 1,000 people voted at 8 polling stations in the city. The article mentions that female soldiers from the 2nd Forward Support Battalion assisted in performing security checks on female voters. Soldiers from the 1-503rd are quoted.
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The LA Times (reg req'd) has a detailed article exploring the voting patterns in the Anbar province. Key observations:
- Breakdown of the 17,000 votes cast: "1,700 people voted in Ramadi, a city of nearly 400,000 residents; 8,000 in Fallujah, half the size of Ramadi; and about 5,000 in neighboring Nassar Wa Alsalaam, a mostly agricultural community." The remaining votes came from small towns.
- reasons given to the reporter for not voting: safety fears, undesire to support a Shiite majority, belief that voting is against the Koran.
- "Despite the low turnout, U.S. officials declared the election a success.[...] Lt. Col. Randy Newman, commanding officer of the 2nd battalion, 5th regiment, 1st Marine Division, said success should be measured not in the numbers of voters, but by the fact there were no major disruptions by insurgents. Even a poorly attended election is a step toward establishing democracy, Newman said as he toured the rubble-strewn neighborhood surrounding a school that served as polling place No. 1. "This is something that is going to be gained by inches, not yards," Newman said."
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Other mentions of Ramadi or other areas in the Anbar province: The Institute for War and Peace Reporting has an article on the sparse voting in Ramadi. Following an explosion near a US base at 8 a.m., "IWPR reporters spotted only two polling stations that were open." Several gun battles were heard throughout the day. A Washington Post summary (reg req'd) cites residents in Ramadi who indicated "only six people voted at one polling station: the provincial governor, three of his deputies, the representative of the Communist Party and the police chief." A USA Today article reports that "At least five schools used as polling stations were bombed in Ramadi on Sunday. By 10 a.m., no polling stations had opened, said the Iraqi Election Information Network, a group of 10,000 Iraqis monitoring the election. Later, the Iraqi Electoral Commission said some stations had opened on time but did not provide numbers or details." The San Francisco Chronicle mentions voter intimidation: "Reports of voter intimidation were rife. In Ramadi, insurgents distributed leaflets, including one that said: "We will wash the streets of Ramadi with the blood of voters." The Chronicle article also mentions the declared boycott by Sunni scholars: "Both the Iraqi Islamic Party and the Muslim Scholars Association, the two groups that represent pious Sunni Muslims, urged their followers to stay away from the polls. Mehdi Ahmad, a resident of Ramadi, a volatile resistance hotbed, refused to vote. "My choices are between Hakim, an agent of Iran, or Allawi, who is an agent of the occupation," he complained." Gettyimages.com photographer Joe Raedle has new picture up showing citizens voting in Ramadi and election officials tallying votes.
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Other articles from the region:
- Guardian, UK: Mixed message as Sunnis go to polls
- Christian Science Monitor: Iraqis crowd the polls
- Associated Press: News Analysis: It's all up to the Sunnis
- USA Today (via Yahoo News): Next step has entirely new set of challenges

Articles 1.30.2005

The Evening Star News, IN, has an article on a wounded 2nd BCT soldier. Pfc. Matt Pederson (who's unit wasn't given beyond the 2nd ID, but is the 1-503rd) was wounded along with 19 other soldiers on the 11.6.2004 suicide attack on a 7-ton truck. Pfc. Pederson suffered shrapnel wounds in several places and had his right foot amputated. He was one of two soldiers injured directly by the blast; the rest suffered burn injuries. The article follows Pfc. Pederson as he meets with his step-sister's 5th grade class. He plans to finish his service at Ft. Carson and then study construction engineering at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne.
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The Baton Rouge Advocate, LA, carries an article on over 1,000 people who attended a support-the-troops rally. The father of 2nd ID soldier SSG William McInnis was interviewed in the article. His father reports that SSG McInnis (whose unit isn't given beyond the 2nd ID, but a September S&S article identifies him with the 1-503rd), was wounded on 11.14.2004 when an RPG hit his humvee. The RPG failed to explode, but struck him in the leg. According to the article, "Mr. McInnis said, "He's off crutches and he's back in combat now." McInnis said he is very proud of his son."
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Several stories mention the election in Ramadi: The Associated Press reports that, although many Iraqi's voted in other regions (one report says 72% nationwide), "polls were largely deserted throughout the day in many cities of the Sunni Triangle north and west of the capital, particularly Fallujah, Ramadi and Beiji." The same article also said "In Ramadi, U.S. troops tried to coax voters with loudspeakers, preaching the importance of every ballot. The governor of the mostly Sunni province of Salaheddin, Hamad Hmoud Shagti, went on the radio to lobby for a higher turnout. "This is a chance for you as Iraqis to assure your and your children's future," he said." An AFP article claimed that in Ramadi "Three polling stations visited by an AFP correspondent were all empty," although some Sunni Iraqis were voting in Fallujah. An article from ChristianIraq.com claimed "In Ramadi less then 1% of eligible voters showed up at the polls." The Associated Press reports that a school prinicipal in Ramadi "refused to let authorities set up voting booths at his junior high school.[...] I will not let them risk my pupils' future by taking my school and then having the insurgents destroy it," he said."
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Gettyimages photographer Joe Raedle has pictures of the elections in Ramadi. Some picture do show individual citizens voting in sparse voting centers. Other photos show pictures of a destroyed humvee that "was hit by an Improvised Explosive Device a block from where voters enter the polling station January 30, 2005 in Ramadi, Iraq." The caption states that "The soldiers seated inside escaped serious injury."
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The LA Times (reg req'd) has an article on the commander of the 1st Marine Division, Maj. Gen. Richard F. Natonski (under which the 2nd BCT operates) as he met with local citizens on a street corner in Ramadi. According to the article, the citizens gave Gen. Natonksi a "vigorous, unapologetic recitation of the grievances that may lead many of them to boycott today's election."
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The Institute for War and Peace Reporting has an article on the citizens of Ramadi critizing the local police, who many blame "for not protecting them from insurgents, bandits and thieves."
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Other articles from the region:
- BBC: Iraq election declared 'success'
- Washington Post (reg req'd): Deadline for Troop Withdrawal Ruled Out

Articles 1.29.2005

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports on the funeral services for Pfc. Jesus Fonseca Jr., of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. Pfc. Fonseca joined the army at the age of 17, straight out of high school. According to his sister, "He was scheduled to come home in December, but gave up his time to a fellow soldier who had a family emergency." His sister also shared that "A corporal called her from the field in Iraq to offer condolences. He told her that her brother was felled by a sniper's bullet after the car bomb exploded. About her brother, the corporal told her: "He was a good soldier. He was never angry. He was never unhappy. He was never afraid." Pfc. Fonseca's body is being "flown to Mexico this weekend for burial Monday in his hometown of Degollado in the state of Jalisco, where his wife, Marlen, lives. His parents, siblings and other family members will accompany the body. In Mexico, family members will carry the casket to the cemetery, a 30-minute walk."
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KOAT News, Denver Post, and the Cortez Journal, CO, report on the funeral services for Spc. George Geer, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. Spc. Geer, who was a SAW gunner, received a posthumous promotion from PFC "because of his honorable service and ultimate sacrifice." Several hundred local citizens and Army personnel attended the memorial service, where he was remembered for his enthusiasm and love for vehicles and adventuring in his "beloved Rocky Mountains". Several organizations joined together to install a lighted flagpole at the Geer family's house as a memorial.
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The Palm Beach Post, FL, has an article on a wounded 2nd BCT Marine. Cpl. Brian Sellers (who's unit wasn't given, but is the 2/5 Marines) suffered shrapnel wounds to the neck and side on 10.23.2004 when a mortar landed on his barracks. According to the article, "Sellers is making slow but steady progress. He began speaking again Nov. 5 but his speech is slurred because of nerve damage in his tongue.[...] His throat injury left him with apnea, a temporary shutdown of breathing that causes him to startle awake, and nightmares, which also wake him up at night. Then he lies in bed worrying about his friends still in Iraq."My Marines," he calls them. "I was the only one from my company sent home. If I was there, would somebody else not be injured? I feel guilty that I'm not there."

Cpl. Sellers was in the patrol when his platoon leader, 2nd Lt. Michael Felsberg, was killed on 10.13.2004 by an RPG, and spoke at his memorial service.
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The LA Times (reg req'd) carries an article on the preparation of polling centers in Ramadi. The station is guarded by the 2/5 Marines, while the 2nd Combat Engineers Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, is assisting with the efforts.

A separate LA Times article (reg req'd) evaluates the use of a veteran Iraqi commando unit in Ramadi. Several hundred commandos, who had fought in the November assault on Fallujah, were given the task of providing security in Ramadi after 1,000 members of the local police force quit. The unit is working with the 2/5 Marines.
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Embedded Stars & Stripes reporter Joseph Giordono has an article on the U.S. forces role in tomorrow's election. U.S forces will provide the outer cordon of security at polling stations, while Iraqi forces will protect the polling stations themselves. U.S. forcers were also given strict instructions on their duties and what they should and should not say during the election. Soldiers in Baghdad and with the 1-503rd in Ramadi are interviewed.

A second article claims the joint U.S.-Iraqi election security efforts in Ramadi have "rounded into shape." 10 polling stations have been set up around the city, with 5 being manned by Marines and 5 by 2nd ID units. Mortar, RPG and small arms fire were aimed at several of the stations on Friday. One unidentified U.S. soldier and one Iraqi commando were injured at different polling stations on Friday. In addition, "Roadside bombs were detonated near several joint patrols in the city, but no casualties were reported." Iraqi Electoral Commission officials are in route to the polling stations.
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NBC News has an article and video report with the 2/5 Marines in Ramadi. Marines at the main polling station have been securing a 10 block radius around the location, preparring voting resources, and conducting a "get-out-the-vote" campaign.
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An Associated Press article claims that a wide boycott of the elections is expected across the Sunni-dominated Anbar province. According to the article, 5 schools used as polling stations in Ramadi received mortar attacks on Friday. Another tidbit: "Rumors spread through Ramadi that U.S. troops will be moving around with ballot boxes on election day, forcing people to vote or to go to polling stations. U.S. officials have denied such plans. "
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Other articles from the region:
- Associated Press: Iraq Sets Dusk-To-Dawn Curfew Before Vote
- AFP: Iraq sealed off as insurgents keep up election battle
- Advertiser Adelaide, Australia: Workers smuggled into polling stations
- Washington Post (reg req'd): So Many Candidates, So Few Rallies
- Washington Post (reg req'd): U.S. Forces Intensify Preparations For Iraq Vote
- Washington Post (reg req'd): U.S. Military Plans A Hands-Off Role
- BBC: Violence 'will deter many Iraqis'
- LA Times (reg req'd): A Question of Hope
- Chicago Tribune (via Yahoo News): Nation in near-lockdown as election work hastens

Articles 1.28.2005

Updated 12:30 cst
The La Grande Observer, OR, has an article on the family of a 2/5 Marine featured in the recent CBS "60 Minutes" report. Cpl. Jack Evers was featured in the "unflinching" segment. The reality in Ramadi came as a surprise to his family, and led to more honest discussions on the danger he faces. Cpl. Evers, a husband and father of two children, re-enlisted between the first Iraq deployment of the 2/5 Marines and the current deployment which began in August 2004.
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GettyImages photographer Joe Raedle has dozens of more pictures of election preparations in Ramadi dated Jan 19-28. Some of the captions report sniper and mortar fire on polling stations, and counteroffensive responses to those attacks. Others show barricades and metal detectors being set up, as well as Iraqi soldiers setting up camp within the polling station. Many of the photographs mention soldiers of the 1-503rd by name.
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More reports on clashes in Ramadi: AFP reports that "In the western city of Ramadi, a guerrilla stronghold, six Iraqi soldiers were killed in ambushes, an Iraqi officer said." A separate Associated Press article reported that 4 Iraqi National guardsmen had been kidnapped and killed.
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Other articles:
- MSNBC: Poll workers' courage could be key to election
- Newscover Magazine: Millions Expected To Vote In Historic Jan 30th Iraq Elections
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posted 09:00 cst
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (reg req'd) indicates that a funeral mass will be held today for Pfc. Jesus Fonseca, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. Following the mass and viewing in Marietta, GA, where his family lives, Pfc. Fonseca "will be buried in the town of Degollado in Jalisco, Mexico, where his wife lives."
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The Cortez Journal, CO, reports that the funeral services for Pfc. George Geer will be held today. Pfc. Geer, of the 1-503rd, was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. The district Representative to the U.S. House of Representatives honored the memory of Pfc. Geer during his first speech on the House floor.
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The Central Connecticut Record-Journal reports on the funeral service for SSG Thomas Vitagliano, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. About 300 mourners gathered at the funeral. According to the article, "During the funeral, an e-mail by Col. Gary Patton, Vitagliano's brigade commander, was read. It describes Vitagliano's bravery just before his death. Patton wrote that when Vitagliano realized an approaching vehicle was manned by a suicide bomber, he pushed one soldier to safety. The soldier was injured in the attack, but because of Vitagliano's actions he will live, Patton said. "Even in his last breath and action Tommy was taking care of his soldiers," he said."
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Embedded Stars & Stripes reporter Joseph Giordono has an article on the preparation of polling stations for the upcoming elections. Soldiers of the 44th Engineers and 1-503rd Infantry cleared buildings and set up blockades. The units will guard the polling stations until the election day, on which Iraqi forces will take over security. The polling stations received mortar, RPG, and small arms fire during the first day of guard at one polling station.
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The Los Angeles Times (reg req'd) has an article following a patrol of the 2/5 Marines in Ramadi as they prepare for the elections. The article discusses one arrest of expected insurgents in detail.
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A Multi-National Force Iraq news release reports on Iraqi citizens providing information to U.S. and Iraqi forces during election preparations. In one instance, "Based on a tip from an Iraqi citizen, an Iraqi commando unit seized a weapons cache inside of the gates of the Malik Abn Ans Mosque in eastern Ramadi." The article also mentions that, "in other activities over the last 72 hours, Marines and Soldiers from the 1st Marine Division detained 38 suspected insurgents and seized several weapons caches during operations throughout the Al Anbar Province."
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Several update articles mention clashes in Ramadi. The Associated Press reports that "A mortar shell landed on a house close to a school believed to be used as polling site in the western city of Ramadi, wounding two women and two children, a hospital doctor said." A separate Associated Press article reports that "In Ramadi, capital of the insurgent-plagued province of Anbar, an Iraqi national guard soldier was killed when insurgents attacked a joint U.S.-Iraqi force guarding a voting center at a school, police Lt. Safa al-Obeidi said." The San Francisco Chronicle briefly mentions that attempts to keep polling locations secret until shortly before the elections "didn't stop insurgents from bombing two schools in Ramadi and a school administration building in Samarra that was to be used as a voting center."
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Other articles from the region:
- BBC: Security stepped up for Iraq poll
- LA Times (reg req'd): Iraqis Get Ready for the Worst
- Christian Science Monitor: Iraq's moment of decision
- Christian Science Monitor: Iraqis' big issue: US exit plan
- Christian Science Monitor: How Iraq's election will work
- NPR audio report: General: Iraqi Troops Hesitant to Fight Insurgents inside Borders

Articles 1.27.2005

The New Haven Register, CT, and Hartford Courant report on the funeral services for SSG Thomas Vitagliano, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. SSG Vitagliano was engaged and had planned to leave the Army at the end of his enlistment. WTNH news has two video segments remembering his life and service.
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Embedded Stars & Stripes reporter Joseph Giordono has an article on a joint US-Iraqi patrol with the 1-503rd in Ramadi. On the patrol, U.S. soldiers introduced the Iraqi forces to citizens and emphasized their role in the country's future. A larger version of one of the pictures of an unnamed soldier is found on the Stars & Stripes main page.

Mr. Giordono has a second article reporting that soldiers in the 1-503rd detained 5 men in a pre-dawn raid. The raid, which lasted just over an hour, met no resistance. According to the article, "U.S. troops have been undertaking targeted raids in Ramadi in the days leading up to Sunday’s elections, hoping to disrupt insurgent cells before they have a chance to attack."
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Other articles from the region:
- Associated Press: Top U.S. Commander: Iraq Forces Not Ready
- Associated Press: Iraqi Expats Unlikely to Sway Election
- NY Times (via san Diego Union-Tribune): Many Iraqis may choose safety over right to vote
- NY Times (reg req'd): Anti-Vote Violence in Iraq Is Intensifying, Latest Data Shows
- LA Times (via Seattle Times): Lost in the shuffle, Sunni Arabs ponder their role in new order
- LA Times (via South Florida Sun-Sentinel: Insurgent force's size still unclear
- Boston Globe: Fear clouding election in Sunni areas
- Christian Science Monitor: Final drive to coax Sunnis to polls
- Christian Science Monitor: In US, patience over Iraq thins

Articles 1.26.2005

The Amity Observer, CT, and WFSB News report that a funeral mass is being held today in West Haven, CT, for Staff Sgt. Thomas Vitagliano, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. His burial is scheduled for tomorrow, 1.27.2004, and flags are also being flown at half-staff in the area in his honor.
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The Cortez Journal, CO, carries an article on the casualty liaison officer assisting the Geer family following the death of Pfc. George Geer. Pfc. Geer, of the 1-503rd, was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. Army Sgt. 1st Class Nelson Rosado, a member of the 2nd BCT stationed at Ft. Carson, has spent the last week with the Geer family, assisting them with funeral arrangements and insurance and military benefits procedures.
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The Los Angeles Times (reg req'd) carries an article on the difficulties of disrupting the insurgency. Ramadi is mentioned twice:
- "After a round of killings in Ramadi, the capital of Al Anbar province in the Sunni heartland, word came Tuesday that the 1,000-member police force had abandoned its posts..."
- ""Everybody wants to find one master string-puller, but it's not as rigid a command structure as that," said Capt. Sean Kuehl, assistant intelligence officer for the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment based in Ramadi."
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The Los Angeles Times (via the Union Leader News, NH) has an article on the risks Marines face while driving in U.S. convoys in Ramadi. (Although no unit is given, the article author was reported to be with the 2/5 Marines in a separate article yesterday.)
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Embedded Stars & Stripes reporter Joseph Giordiono has an article on a patrol with the 1-503rd in Ramadi that turned into a firefight. No casualties were reported. The article contains several pictures and quotes from soldiers, including a soldier in the 2-17th Field Artillery, who is attached to the 1-503rd as a Civil Affairs officer.
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The Associated Press reports fighting in Ramadi: "Residents of the insurgent-filled city of Ramadi, 70 miles west of Baghdad, reported clashes there Wednesday between U.S. troops and rebels. The fighting erupted when militants attacked a U.S. patrol with rocket-propelled grenades, the residents said. One Iraqi was killed and two were wounded, doctors said."
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Other articles from the region:
- Christian Science Monitor: Amid struggles, an Iraqi family will vote
- NY Times (reg req'd): Insurgents Vowing to Kill Iraqis Who Brave the Polls on Sunday

New battalion web-site for the 1-503rd

1st Lt. Joseph Carman, the 1-503rd Battalion S-6 (Communications Officer), forwarded the link to a new web-site for the battalion: www.firstrock.net. The site contains information on the battalion, links to company level web-sites, FRG contact information and links, and photo galleries.

Thanks for forwarding, Lt. Carman. This and other known 2nd BCT support site are listed in this post, and soldier sites and other sites with 2nd BCT pictures are listed in this post.

Articles 1.25.2005

KOAT News, NM, reports that area flags are being flown at half-staff this week in honor of Pfc. George Geer, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005.
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WOOD TV, MI and the Traverse City Record Eagle, MI, report on a wounded 2nd BCT soldier. Pfc. Derrick Harden, of the 1-503rd, was severly wounded after a roadside bomb attack on 1.17.2005. His humvee hit an I.E.D. while responding to another bomb explosion in Ramadi. He had one leg amputated below the knee, and is presently at walter Reed hospital undergoing treatment for multiple broken bones and shrapnel wounds. His wounds will require major reconstructive surgery. According to his mother, Pfc. Harden awoke from a week-long coma on 1.24.2005 and is breathing without assistance, but does not yet know what happened. His family is presently in route to Washington to be with him.
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A Multi-National Force Iraq news release reports that "Combined operations by U.S. Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team[...] and Iraqi Security Forces seized an AK-47, five cell phones, approximately $42,000, various foreign currencies equivalent to approximately $72,000 and eight detainees in a series of raids on Jan. 24 in Ramadi. Meanwhile, Marines and Soldiers from the 1st Marine Division of the I Marine Expeditionary Force detained 23 suspected insurgents and discovered several weapons caches during operations throughout Al Anbar Province over the last 48 hours." A list of confiscated weapons and munitions is also provided.
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The Institute for War and Peace Reporting has an article on the "dim election prospects" in Ramadi. According to the article, local citizens have expressed three primary reasons for not voting:
1) "some are following a call by the Association of Muslim Scholars, an influential Sunni clerical group, not to take part".
2) some view the election as a "farce" that is orchestrated by the U.S.
3) Some fear for their safety.

Other observations in the article:
- There is currently a 3 p.m to 11 p.m. curfew in Ramadi.
- "US troops control most of the main streets in the city, and roads leading into the city have been blocked"
- "On January 24, US soldiers began a makeshift voter education programme, setting up a checkpoint on the Baghdad road outside Ramadi to hand out leaflets about the election. Loudspeakers mounted on Humvees urged waiting motorists to participate and “stand against the terrorists” instead of boycotting the poll. One of the fliers provided information about how the polls would be conducted, advising people about which identification documents would be accepted when they came to vote, and warning them not to bring weapons, mobile phones or handbags anywhere near polling stations."
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GettyImages.com photographer Joe Raedle has several new photos of soldiers in Ramadi dated Jan 16-24.
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Other articles from the region:
- LA Times (reg req'd): U.S. Commander Says 2005 Goal Is to Reduce Troops
- LA Times (reg req'd): Election Is Looking Up for Allawi
- NY Times (reg req'd): Balking at Vote, Sunnis Seek Role on Constitution
- NY Times (reg req'd): General Says the Current Plan Is to Maintain 120,000 Soldiers in Iraq Through 2006
- Washington Post (reg req'd): Army Plans To Keep Iraq Troop Level Through '06
- Boston Globe: Iraq election logistics juggle politics, fear
- Christian Science Monitor: Iraq battens down for vote
- Chicago Tribune (via Yahoo news): Fear eroding Iraqis' resolve to vote

Soccer ball drive for Iraqi Children

Medic Spc. Idahosa Edokpayi of the 1-503rd is seeking donations of soccer balls to give to Iraqi children in Ramadi. Spc. Edokpayi has an inspiring blog (whoisidaho.blogspot.com) and recently started a photo-blog (apictureisworthathousandwords.blogspot.com). He reports that the most common item Iraqi children ask him for are soccer balls. Soccer also happens to be his favorite sport.

If you would like to donate soccer balls, you can get his mailing address by sending an e-mail directly to Spc. Edokpayi at stealth_ninja.geo@yahoo.com, or to me (Ryan Kirk) at rkirk@gis.umn.edu. Spc. Edokpayi also shares some "helpful guidelines":
- You may send the balls deflated.
- Size doesn't matter, but I would recommend a size 5 ball. (The kids aren't picky)
- I am not affliated with any charitable or international aid organizations.
- I make up the rules as I go.
"Keep those things in mind and we can have a beautiful relationship."

Articles 1.24.2005

The Yale Daily News, CT, has an article on Staff Sgt. Thomas E. Vitagliano, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. Family and friends remember his dedication to the military, but also the great love he had for family and friends, and the great joy he took in playing with kids.
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The Hickory Record, NC, has an article on the wives of two soldiers in the 1-506th. Melissa Gibb's husband, Sgt. 1st Class Todd Gibbs, was killed on 12.7.2004 in Khalidiyah, and he was buried on 12.18.2004 in Texas. Kristin Sabat, the wife of Sgt. Gibb's company commander, Cpt. Jason Sabat, arranged for Melissa and her son to visit her in Ft. Bragg, NC. Together, they went on trips to the mountains and talked about the future. “They (1st of the 506th) are called the Band of Brothers,” Kristin said. “We’re like the Band of Sisters.”
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Stars & Stripes reporter Joseph Giordono has an article on the arrests of key insurgent leaders in Ramadi. The arrests, previously reported on the Desert Strike FRG site, were carried out by a joint task force consisting of the 1-503rd Infantry, the 1-9th Infantry, and the 2/5 Marines, "all of which operate out of Ramadi."
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A separate Stars & Stripes article reports on a phone card support program for soldiers and families organized by the Camp Casey United Services Organization (USO). The USO has already given away $99,000 worth of phone cards. "When Strike Force prepared to deploy to Iraq last year, the USO gave soldiers from the unit more than 1,000 phone cards. After the unit left in August, phone cards have been provided to the Strike Force soldiers’ spouses in Area I so they can stay in touch with their husbands in Iraq," director Sally Hall said." She estimated there are about 120 wives of 2nd BCT soldiers remaining in Korea.
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The Los Angeles Times (reg req'd) has an article on the increase in US offensives prior to the upcoming election. One of the contributing reporters is with the 2/5 Marines in Ramadi, and the unit is mentioned twice:
1) "We want to eliminate as many of these guys as possible to stabilize things for the election," said Capt. Sean Kuehl, assistant intelligence officer for the 2nd Battalion, 5th Regiment, 1st Marine Division, which is based in the tense city of Ramadi, west of Baghdad.
2) "Marines recently engaged in three days of gun battles in Ramadi, killing an estimated 15 insurgents."
================
Other articles from the region:
- NY Times (reg req'd): Shiites in Iraq Say Government Will Be Secular
- Chicago Tribune (via Yahoo News): Iraq election teeters on cultural split
- Associated Press: Shiite Grand Ayatollah Key in Iraq Vote

Articles 1.23.2005

The Cortez Journal, CO, has an article on the community support and remembrance being displayed in honor of Pfc. George Geer, of the 1-503rd, who was killed on 1.17.2005 in Ramadi. Pfc. Geer's prized 1967 Plymouth Barracuda is being displayed as a memorial at a local car dealer for the next week, where flowers and notes have been left. The car club of which Pfc. Geer was a 13-year member is holding a tribute cruise on 1.22.2004. A memorial fund has also been established at a local bank.
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The Stars & Stripes reports on the deaths of Staff Sgt. Thomas E. Vitagliano, Pfc. George R. Geer, and Pfc. Jesus Fonseca, of the 1-503rd. According to the article, all three soldiers where killed on 1.17.2005 by the same suicide bomb. The three "died Monday while on foot patrol, according to a Pentagon news release and soldiers who were near the explosion. The three soldiers had just entered a building when the vehicle slammed into the exterior, exploding on contact."
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Embedded Stars & Stripes reporter Joseph Giordono has a followup article to the successful joint US-Iraqi patrol in the Tamim district of Ramadi. On a second patrol, soldiers of the 1/9th Infantry and an Iraqi National Guard company entered an area known for insurgent activity and received a "decidedly cooler reception."
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The Richmond Palladium-Item, IN, carries an article on the 2/5 Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Randy Newman, who was featured in a 1.16.2005 "60 Minutes" segment. After receiving his commission in 1987, he served in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, and earned a Bronze Star in the first Operation Iraqi Freedom. He took command of the 2/5 Marines in early 2004. According to Lt. Col Newman's family, the 60 Minutes crew spent two weeks with the 2/5 Marines in November, and one week in January.
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The Springfield News-Leader, MO, reprinted an article from the Army Times that describes a patrol of the 2/5 Marines in Ramadi in search of insurgents. A second article evaluates the difficulty of fighting a "hidden enemy" in the populated city of Ramadi.
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A Multi-National Force press release reports that " Marines and Soldiers from the 1st Marine Division of the I Marine Expeditionary Force detained 59 suspected insurgents and seized several weapons caches during operations throughout Al Anbar Province over the past 48 hours." A list of the confiscated weapons and munitions is also provided.
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The Associated Press reports that rebels "raided a police station in the western city of Ramadi, ordering officers out of the building and seizing their weapons, police Lt. Omar al-Duleimi said."
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Other articles from the region:
- Associated Press: US, Iraqi Forces Brace for Wave of Election Bombs
- Associated Press: Shi'ite Leader: Iraq Won't Be Drawn Into Civil War
- Gannett News Service: Insurgents teach U.S. old lessons
- Associated Press: Turnout by Sunnis the biggest factor in elections
- London Independent: Shias prepare to take power, as the army prepares for violence
- LA Times (reg req'd): Security Vies With Danger at Iraqi Polls
- NY Times (reg req'd): As Election Nears, Iraqis Remain Sharply Divided on Its Value
- Washington Post (reg req'd): U.S. Plans New Tack After Iraq Elections
- Washington Post (reg req'd): In One Night, Iraqi Citizen Turns From Friend to Foe
- San Francisco Chronicle: Plenty of candidates, but where do they stand?

Articles 1.22.2005

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (reg req'd) carries an article on Pfc. Jesus Fonseca, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. Pfc. Fonseca was married in December 2003. While his parents live in Georgia, his wife, Marlen, and many relatives live in Mexico. After a viewing in Georgia, his body will be laid to rest in Mexico. His former high school English teacher quoted a sentence from an essay he had written about patriotism: ""I think the best way I can love my new country is to serve my new country."
================
Embedded Stars & Stripes Reporter Joseph Giordono has two new articles with the 2nd BCT. The first article follows a joint patrol between soldiers of the 1-9th Infantry and "an elite Iraqi unit dubbed the Freedom Guard" in the Tamim district of Ramadi. The goals of the joint patrols are to provide security for the upcoming election and to continue preparing Iraqi forces to eventually take over responsibility of their country. The article has 5 pictures, and several 1-9th soldiers are quoted.

The second article is a lighter "Reporters Notebook" piece on strange things in Iraq. At a vehicle checkpoint, soldiers of the 1-9th discovered four small sheep hidden in the trunk of a car.
================
The Los Angeles Times (reg req'd) carries an article on the key role Ramadi plays in the upcoming election. Some key quotes:
-"With Fallouja in virtual lockdown after the November offensive, Ramadi looms as the more significant test of whether U.S. and Iraqi forces can provide security and Sunni voters will ignore calls by some clerics to boycott the election."
- ""From a symbolic and a political standpoint, conducting a successful election in Ramadi, the provincial capital, is critical," said Brig. Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, assistant commander of the 1st Marine Division."
- "In October, the U.S. doubled the number of troops assigned to Ramadi, and security improved for a time. Now attacks are occurring almost daily again."
- "In preparation for the election, U.S. troops have raided numerous locations around Ramadi. In one night, 82 suspected insurgents were captured. The military said a load of anti-American literature and several caches of weaponry, including grenades, rockets and AK-47s, were seized."
- "Although they are among the few large cities in Al Anbar and are only 40 miles apart, Ramadi and Fallouja historically have gone their separate ways. Ramadi has been more tribal, with a tighter social structure. Fallouja was more hospitable to outsiders and served as a way station for travelers and merchants from Syria and Jordan....The U.S. has attempted to exploit the rivalry and disdain many Ramadi residents feel toward Falloujans. The "good people" pamphlet, for example, is one of several "information operations" designed to play on their differences."We're hearing some Ramadi residents telling us: 'We don't want a Fallouja here. We're not Fallouja,' " said Col. John Coleman, chief of staff of the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force."
================
Photographer Joe Raedle of Getty Images has several new photos with the 1-503rd in Ramadi dated 1.21.2005, including pictures of the memorial service held for Pfc. Jesus Fonseca, Pfc. George R. Geer, and SSG Thomas E. Vitagliano, and a joint US/Iraqi patrol.
================
Other articles from the region:
- The New Yorker: Can Iyad Allawi hold Iraq together?
- Knight Ridder: Analysis: Iraqi insurgency growing larger, more effective
- BBC: Iraq attacks spark Allawi warning
- Washington Post (reg req'd): No Foreign Observers to Monitor Iraq Vote
- AFP: More than 90,000 Iraqi expats register to vote

Articles 1.21.2005

The Delco Times, PA, reports on the funeral services for Spc. Michael Smith. Spc. Smith, of the 1-503rd, was killed in Ramadi on 1.11.2005. Funeral services were held on 1.20.2005, and he will be laid to rest this afternoon at Arlington National Cemetery. The Delco Times also has a columnist's article on Spc. Smith, describing the heartache and pride felt by his family and community.
================
The New Haven Register, CT, has an article on Staff Sgt. Thomas E. Vitagliano, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. A longtime friend from the Hargrave Military Academy tells several anecdotal stories about SSG Vitagliano.
================
The Honolulu Advertiser printed a "dispatches from Iraq" letter from a 2nd BCT soldier. Lt. Tad Tsuneyoshi, a 2003 West Point Graduate and platoon leader in the 1-503rd, describes his experience and impressions from Ramadi.
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The Desert Strike FRG site has a new article, which reports that "Soldiers and Marines from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, currently assigned to 1st Marine Division, captured several key Ramadi-based insurgent leaders during a series of raids Jan. 14 to 16 in Ramadi." The article lists 10 named insurgents, including a cell leader and his second in command, an insurgent financier with ties to Al Zarqawi, and several men associated with kidnappings in the region. Several others were detained as well.
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The Desert Strike FRG site also has a link to dozens of professional photographs of soldiers in Ramadi from photographer Joe Raedle on GettyImages.com. The 1-503rd is the only unit mentioned in some of the captions, which are dated Jan 18-20.
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A Multi-National Force Iraq News release reports that "Marines and Soldiers from the 1st Marine Division of the I Marine Expeditionary Force detained 36 suspected insurgents and discovered several weapons caches during operations throughout Al Anbar Province during the last 48 hours." The release lists hundreds of weapons and munitions found in the caches.
================
A Multi-National Force Iraq News release indicates that "Insurgents launched a series of indirect fire attacks on several civilian population centers in and around Ramadi about 1 p.m. on Jan. 20. At least six rounds of insurgent indirect fire impacted in neighborhoods and near homes. It is undetermined if there were civilian casualties. Marines returned fire to the locations where two of the attacks originated after confirming no civilians were in the area. This event may be another attempt by insurgents to destabilize the Ramadi area and intimidate the civilian population prior to the elections, which are scheduled to occur on Jan. 30."
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Other articles from the region:
- Washington Post (via MSNBC): Most Iraqis [80%] committed to elections, poll finds
- NY Times (via St. Lake Tribune: Al-Zarqawi vows to keep fighting Americans
- Washington Post (reg req'd): U.S. Prisons in Iraq Nearly Full With Rise in Insurgent Arrests

Combat Fatality

The Department of Defense announced the death of a 2nd BCT soldier.

Pfc. Jesus Fonseca, of the 1-503rd, was killed on 1.17.2005 when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his position. Pfc. Fonseca, of Marietta, GA, was 19 years old.

Pfc. Fonseca is the 13th soldier from the 1-503rd, and the 53rd 2nd BCT serviceman, to die in Iraq while serving our country. Our hearts go out to his family.

Articles 1.20.2005

The Hartford Courant, New Haven Register, and Associated Press carry articles on SSG Thomas E. Vitagliano, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. SSG Vitagliano enlisted in the Marines in 1990 at the age of 17 and served in Desert Storm in 1991. After a brief stint in the civilian world, he returned to teach Marine cadets, then joined the Army. SSG Vitagliano hoped to join his father's real estate business after leaving the army. He was engaged, and talked about getting married upon his return from Iraq. The governor of Connecticut announced that flags will be flown at half-staff in honor of SSG Vitagliano on the day of his funeral.
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The Durango Herald, CO, Denver Post, and Rocky Mountain News have articles on Pfc. George R. Geer, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.17.2005. His father reported that he was killed while inspecting a suspicious vehicle, which was a car bomb. Pfc. Geer joined the Army after spending several years working at a car dealership. He was planning on either pursuing a career in the military or becoming a geography teacher. His R&R leave was scheduled for February, and he had hoped to do some skiing and work on his car, a favorite hobby. According to his father, Pfc. Geer comes from a long line of servicemen who have fought in every war since the Revolutionary War.
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Embedded Stars & Stripes Reporter Joseph Giordiono has two new articles on the 2nd BCT. The first article follows a patrol of the 1/9th Infantry as they conduct a "get out the vote" campaign in " Tamim, a district on the southwest edge of Ramadi." The second article reports on a cofeehouse soldiers of the 2-17th Field Artillery created in an office that was left unused after a mortar hit the building and left a hole in the wall. Both articles have pictures of 2nd BCT soldiers.
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The Desert Strike FRG site has a new letter from 2nd BCT Commander Col. Gary S. Patton. The letter has three main points:
1) the brigade is "very busy right now preparing for the first free election in the history of Iraq. Our mission is to neutralize the insurgents and create a safe and secure environment for voters on election day Jan 30."
2) R&R Leave: More than 1,000 Soldiers have taken leave since the program began Nov 1. 385-430 Soldiers are given leave each month. Col. Patton's "goal is to provide everyone a leave or pass opportunity during our deployment, and this includes senior leaders and commanders."
3) Redeployment home: the official orders state the 2nd BCT deployed Aug 2004 for a scheduled 1 year deployment. The tour has not been extended, but no official redeployment date has been given.
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Other articles from the region:
- Washington Post (reg req'd): Iraqis' Readiness Disputed in Hearing
- Stars & Stripes: Half of IRR call-ups seek delays, deferments; hundreds are no-shows
- Knight Ridder: Army scrounging to boost troops in Iraq
- LA Times (reg req'd): U.S. to Overhaul Training of Iraqi Forces
- NY Times (reg req'd): Logistical Challenges Remain Before Iraqis Cast Ballots
- Christian Science Monitor: Iraq's critical Sistani factor

Combat Fatalities

The Department of Defense announced the death of two 2nd BCT soldiers.

Staff Sgt. Thomas E. Vitagliano, of the 1-503rd, was killed on 1.17.2005 when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his position. Staff SGt. Vitagliano was from New Haven, CT. He was 33 years old.

Pfc. George R. Geer, of the 1-503rd, was killed on 1.17.2005 when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his position. Pfc. Geer, of Cortez, CO, was 27 years old.

Staff Sgt. Vitagliano and Pfc. Geer are the 11th and 12th soldiers of the 1-503rd, and 51st and 52nd 2nd BCT servicemen, to die while serving our country in Iraq. Our hearts go out to their families.

Ft. Carson Forward Detachment Information

Please note the comment below from Lyn Taylor, one of the moderators of the 2nd BCT Desert Strike Support Group. Key quote: "The spouse can NOT call to get on the housing list, they have to appear in person at Carson for this. This memo that was sent out has been amended. They can fax their POA to be reviewed to receive orders if the soldier ok'd them to receive them." Thanks for the update, Lyn.
===================
Amanda Hartwig left a comment on this blog with information regarding the Forward Detachment at Ft. Carson. Here is the comment text:

"I thought that it might be helpful for many family members to post the link for the Forward Detachment at Fort Carson. It is www.carson.army.mil/2BCT/.
The orders are also in and can be requested from the Fort Carson at this time. You can fax your request for orders along with a General Power of Attorney to 719-526-1406. To be placed on the waiting list at Fort Carson, spouses may call (719) 226-2268 [previous sentence no longer correct, see comment below]. If people have questions they can contact the FRG at 877-537-0383/719-526-1361, or by email at rene.hughes@carson.army.mil or ricardo.ocasio@carson.army.mil."

Thanks, Amanda. There is now a permanent link to the Forward Detachment Site on the right side-bar of this blog. Note that the Desert Strike FRG site is still the main FRG resource for the 2nd BCT.

Articles 1.19.2005

WGRZ News, NY, has a followup report on a wounded 2nd BCT Marine. Cpl. Mark P. O'Brien, of the 2/5 Marines, was wounded by an RPG on 11.7.2004 (previously reported on by The East Aurora Advertiser). Cpl. O'Brien's right arm and right leg were amputated. He has been undergoing intensive therapy at Walter Reed Hospital, and has been fitted for prosthetics. He says he is doing "really, really great", and plans to return home by this summer, attend college in the fall, and pursue a career in law enforcement. He credits his fellow Marines for keeping him alive on the day he was wounded.
===============
The Baton Rouge, LA, Advocate has an article on a 2nd BCT soldier home on leave. Sgt. Derrick Clark Sr., of the 2/17 Field Artillery, arrived home on 1.18.2005 for two weeks of R&R. He plans to spend that time with his wife and two sons.
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A Stars & Stripes article by embedded reporter Joseph Giordono follows a patrol with the 1/9th Infantry in Tamim, a section of Ramadi just across the river from downtown. In the course of one day, a patrol led by A Company Commander Cpt. Kevin Capozzoli handed out election material, responded as a quick reaction force after a soldier was wounded manning an observation post, and acted as detectives after gunshots were heard.
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In a Department of Defense press briefing transcript, Lt. Gen. John Sattler, Commander of the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, answered questions about the situation in the Anbar province. He mentions that voting stations will be open in Fallujah and Ramadi. Each family from Fallujah is receiving a $200 stipend, and will receive further payments for damage to their property. When asked about the Iraqi Forces, Lt. Gen Sattler cited commandos in Ramadi: "We have another battalion of police commandos that's working out inside Ramadi that's also doing great things with the Second Brigade combat team that's out there working with them. So, I'm on the side that gives a thumbs up to the Iraqi Security Forces, but there's still more work to be done." Previous reports mentioned a battalion of Iraqi police commandos working with the 1-503rd in Ramadi.
===============
other articles from the region:
- UPI: General: Each Fallujah family to get $200
- Guardian, UK: Adviser: Only Attacks Can Halt Iraq Vote
- Associated Press: Iraq to seal borders, extend curfew for election
- AFP: Elections promised for Fallujah, Ramadi, but details secret to avert attack
- Health Day News: Mobile Surgical Units Making Difference in Iraq
- Associated Press: Marine General Says Fallujah Quieter
- LA Times (via Yahoo News): Support for War in Iraq Hits New Low
- USA Today: Push for Sunni voters enters critical days
- NY Times (reg req'd): U.S. Intelligence Says Iraqis Will Press for Withdrawal
- Washington Post (reg req'd): In Iraqi Vote, the Writing Isn't on the Wall

Web-site for wounded 2nd BCT soldier

Ami Chung, the wife of a 2nd BCT soldier, forwarded a link to a web-site for a wounded 2nd BCT soldier. CPT Daniel MacArthur Gade, of the 1/9th Infantry, was wounded on 1.10.2005 when an I.E.D. detonated near his vehicle. He was evacuated from Iraq and is presently at Walter Reed Hospital. His left leg was amputated. He still requires the aid of a breathing tube and is undergoing surgery for the third straight day today, 1.19.2005. The web-site provides regular updates on Cpt. Gade's progress, some pictures of his family, and a guestbook to send greetings and prayers to his family.

Ami asks that we keep Cpt. Gade in our hearts and prayers. She also reports that his wife and family received a visit from Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld.

Articles 1.18.2005

The Chester Daily Local, PA, has an article on Spc. Michael J. Smith, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.11.2005. Spc. Smith's family has a long record of military service: "A grandfather was in World War II; one uncle served in Vietnam; another in Beirut; and [his step-brother] was stationed in Saudi Arabia during the first Gulf War." Spc. Smith's wife, Oksana, a Russian citizen, is flying to the U.S. today, and will meet his family for the first time. They married one month before his deployment to Iraq.
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KRNV TV, Las Vegas, has an article on the funeral services for Pfc. Daniel Guastaferro, of the 1-503rd, who died in a vehicle accident in Ramadi on 1.7.2005. He was eulogized as a "shy and compassionate man determined to make the world a better place". Outside of the Army, Pfc. Guastaferro "was passionate about customizing cars, and he enjoyed camping, bowling and fishing." He was 27 years old.
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The Merrillville Post-Tribune, IN, has an article on a 2nd BCT soldier who visited a school during his 2-week R&R leave. Pfc. Matt Shahbaz, who's unit isn't given beyond the 2nd ID (but a google search indicates he is from the 1/9th) and his family (including his wife, Krista, who is also an Army medic) visited an area Middle School class that had sent him packages in Ramadi. Pfc. Shahbaz, a medic with a mortar platoon, gave a slideshow presentation on the daily life of soldiers in the area. He returns to Ramadi on 1.19.2005.
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The Stars & Stripes has an article on the 2nd ID in Iraq. Reporter Joseph Giordono appears to be embedded with the 2nd BCT in Ramadi after spending time with a Marine battalion. He reports on the changes the 2nd BCT has seen over the 4 months they have been in Ramadi. Key observations:
- over the past 4 months, the brigade has sought more interactions with locals to improve the relationship between citizens and U.S. forces, which has led to an observed change in sentiments in the region.
- 2nd BCT Commander Col. Gary S. Patton cites two recent examples of improving relations resulting in better intelligence. Last, week a tip led to the arrest of "20 named targets" in a single raid. A few weeks before, units were able to stage ambushes from people's houses, which was previously not possible.
- The brigade "has completed $1.5 million worth of civil projects during that time and helped create 800 new jobs."
- At least 36 soldiers from the brigade have been killed, and "dozens more have been seriously wounded."
- The brigade operations officer, Maj. Steve Alexander, indicated that attacks on US forces peaked during the Ramadan period last fall, and included 18 suicide attacks. Attacks appear to be increasing before the election. "Patrols have come under fire nearly every day, mortars have been shot at bases and a crowd of children threw rocks at one unit last week."
- "For the elections, the brigade has received a special battalion of Iraqi commandos who have fought alongside U.S. units from Mosul to Fallujah. The key, said Maj. Robert Proctor, the brigade’s Iraqi Security Forces development officer, is that the commandos are not from the local area." The commando battalion has already started patrols with the 1-503rd in downtown Ramadi.
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A Multi-National Force Iraq news release reports that soldiers and marines of the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, which includes the 2nd BCT, "detained 81 suspected insurgents and seized several weapons caches during operations throughout Al Anbar Province over the last 72 hours." The release also lists hundreds of munition items found in the weapons caches.
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Other articles from the region:
- Knight Ridder: In Iraq, fear of the vote - and of its outcome
- Chicago Tribune: U.S. troops prepare for violence during Iraqi elections
- Reuters: Iraq to shut borders for election
- LA Times (reg req'd): U.S. Will Shift From Fighting to Training
- LA Times (reg req'd): Technology Cuts 'Friendly Fire'
- Washington Post (reg req'd): A Tug of War Ahead of the Iraqi Vote
- Christian Science Monitor: Threats hinder Iraqi candidates

Articles 1.17.2005

CBS News and CBS4 TV have the text and video from a somber 60 Minutes segment with the 2/5 Marines in Ramadi that aired on 1.16.2005. The report follows patrols of Whiskey Company from their base at Hurricane Point and along the main road that has been dubbed "Route Michigan". Several Marines describe the nature of the insurgency in Ramadi. The report showed footage of an interview with Cpt. Patrick Rapicault, who was killed in Ramadi on 11.15.2004. The segment noted that 14 Marines have been killed (9 from Whiskey Company) and 150 Marines have been wounded from the battalion since their arrival in September.
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The Associated Press mentions action in Ramadi: "Also Monday, a suicide car bomber struck a U.S. military convoy in Ramadi, a Sunni insurgent stronghold 70 miles west of Baghdad. There were no reports of casualties, apart from the [suicide car] driver."
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- Time Magazine: Can Iraq's Election Be Saved?
- Reuters: Most Baghdadis Plan to Vote, Says Newspaper Poll
- NY Times (reg req'd): Insurgents Attempt to Sow Chaos in Iraq Before Elections
- Washington Post (reg req'd): Anxious Iraqis Are Leaving Before Elections
- LA Times (reg req'd): Iraqi Vote May Be Just the Beginning
- LA Times column (reg req'd): Even Bush's Most Loyal GOP Soldiers Alarmed by Strain on Troops

Articles 1.16.2005

There are no known articles today on 2nd BCT units or their areas of operations.
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Other news from the region:
- Reuters: Saddam Agents, Militants Plan 'Vicious' Poll Attacks
- Associated Press: Bush: U.S. Not Rushing to Leave Iraq
- Knight Ridder: Vote locations a mystery for Iraqis
- NY Times (reg req'd): Rising Violence and Fear Drive Iraq Campaigners Underground
- NY Times (reg req'd): Iraq Prepares for Election by Sending Out Voter Rolls
- NY Times (reg req'd): New U.S. Commander Sees Shift in Military Role in Iraq

1.15.2005

No news articles have been found to date, but the Desert Strike FRG site has a tribute to Sgt. Bennie Washington, of the 44th Engineers, who died on on 1.4.2005 from injuries sustained on 10.14.2005 in Ramadi. Sgt. Washington "was a driver of one of the M1114 gun-trucks that compromised the battalion’s quick reaction force." Known by the nickname "The Champ", he was a fan of professional wrestling. Sgt. Washington is the father of two children.
================
An Associated Press article mentions action in Ramadi: "Meanwhile, a local government building in the city of Ramadi was hit with rocket-propelled grenades, and groups of armed men were seen roaming the streets of the city, where markets and shops were shuttered. There was no immediate word on casualties."
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Other articles from the region:
- AFP: Iraq unveils security plan aimed at preventing polling day bloodbath
- LA Times (reg req'd): The Fallujah Plight Persists
- NY Times (reg req'd): U.S. Army to Expand Role in Iraq's Civil Engineering
- Washington Post (reg req'd): The Critical Battle for Iraq's Energy

Articles 1.14.2005

The Delco Daily Times, Associated Press, Philadelphia Daily News, and Philadelphia Inquirer (reg req'd) carry articles on Spc. Michael J. Smith, of the 1-503rd, who was killed in Ramadi on 1.11.2005. Spc. Smith's mother died of cancer in 1995. He called his father regularly, the last time on January 3 to wish him a happy birthday. Before joining the Army, Spc. Smith sang in a heavy metal band. According to his father, he joined the army "to improve his life and to serve his country." He married a Russian woman one month before being deployed to Iraq. His wife and stepson are still in Korea.
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The Associated Press picked up on a passing reference, first reported on 1.13.2005, that gunmen "stormed the Al-Rasheed Bank in the centre of Ramadi and made off with 20 billion dinars ($14 million). ""At 11 am, a group broke into the Rashid bank and locked all the employees in a room and took all the money from the bank before escaping," a police captain said." No other details have been provided.
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Other articles from the region:
- AFP: Anti-Shiite attacks mount in Iraq as Powell warns on vote
- Reuters: Iraqis Despair at Struggle of Their Daily Lives
- Washington Post: Iraq New Terror Breeding Ground
- Associated Press: Half of Iraq Population Estimated to Vote
- London Times: Preparations for the election
- LA Times (reg req'd): Iraqis Are Far From Home but Voices Will be Heard
- LA Times (reg req'd): Iraq War May Incite Terror, CIA Study Says

Articles 1.13.2005

A Multi-National Force Iraq news release reports that medics from the 1-9th "provided medical assistance to Iraqi civilians, who were involved in a two-vehicle accident on a main thoroughfare near Ramadi" on 1.12.2005. "U.S. Army medics from the unit responded to the scene and provided medical care to the injured people. One man was taken by military ambulance to a Multi-National Forces medical facility for treatment. He was later flown to Baghdad for follow-on treatment."
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The Isanti County News, MN, published a first hand account from a local soldier who is a combat medic with the 1-506th. In the article, Pfc. Steven Husemoller recounts his training experiences as a medic and describes his job duties and experiences in Iraq, including supporting the assault on Falluja and providing aid to local citizens and insurgents as well as coalition troops.
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Other articles from the region:
- Associated Press: U.S. Lowers Expectations for Iraqi Vote
- USA Today: Female Iraqi candidates risk lives
- NY Times (reg req'd): Under Fire, Election Workers in Iraq Are Scared but Resolute
- Christian Science Monitor: Secrecy surrounds Iraq vote

Combat Fatality

The Department of Defense announced the death of a 2nd BCT soldier.

Spc. Michael J. Smith, of the 1-503rd, was killed on 1.11.2005 in Ramadi when his military vehicle was hit by a rocket propelled grenade. Spc. Smith, of Media, PA, was 24 years old.

Spc. Smith is the 10th soldier from the 1-503rd, and 50th 2nd BCT serviceman, to die in Iraq while serving our country. Our hearts go out to his family.

Articles 1.12.2005

The Las Vegas Sun and Stars & Stripes carry articles on Pfc. Daniel Guastaferro, of the 1-503rd, who died in a vehicle accident in Ramadi on 1.7.2005. One of Pfc. Guastaferro's duties was manning the machine gun atop a humvee. He joined the Army in 2003, but had expressed interest in joining several years earlier. The Army was hesistant because Pfc. Guastaferro had steel plates implanted in his arms following a snowboarding accident at the age of 16.
================
The Elkhart County Truth, IN, has an article on a fundraising drive to send pillows to soldiers in Ramadi and Mosul. 500 pillows have been collected so far.
================
Stars & Stripes reporter Joseph Giordiono is embedded with the 1/23 Marines in the Anbar province (with no documented ties to the 2nd BCT or its area of operations). There is an article on the security challenges facing troops in the upcoming election.
================
Other articles from the region:
- Washington Post: Search for Banned Arms In Iraq Ended Last Month
- NY Times (reg req'd): Search for Illicit Weapons in Iraq Ends
- BBC: General on Iraq security mission
- LA Times (reg req'd): Allawi Agrees: Some Areas of Iraq Won't Be Able to Vote
- NY Times (reg req'd): Allawi Calls Pockets of Iraq Too Perilous for Voters
- CNN.com: Iraqi insurgents fear bin Laden's moves

Articles 1.11.2005

KLAS TV and KVBC TV in Las Vegas have article and video reports on Pfc. Daniel Guastaferro, of the 1-503rd, who died in Ramadi on 1.7.2005. Pfc. Guastaferro attended high school in the area, and worked for a time at Madame Tussaud's wax museum. According to friends, he had hoped to return to Las Vegas and become a Metro Police Officer.
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The Desert Strike FRG site has 4 more pictures of 2nd BCT soldiers being awarded Purple Hearts. Cpl. Kurt Krause and Staff Sgt. John Breeding, of the 1-9th Infantry, were wounded in a 9.7.2004 roadside bomb explosion. Pfc. Eddy Szymoniak, of the 1-506th, was wounded in a 9.13.2004 roadside bomb attack. Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Stemen, of the 1-506th, was also wounded in a 9.13.2004 roadside bomb attack. Spc. Brock Eckstein , of the 1-506th, was wounded on 10.3.2004 in a roadside bomb attack. All of the awards were given by 2nd BCT Commander Col. Gary S. Patton.
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Other articles from the region:
- Associated Press: Many Fallujah residents angry over destruction from U.S.-led
- Newhouse News Service : Election workers labor to outfox insurgents in bid to attract voters
- Associated Press: Some Iraq Areas May Be Too Unsafe to Vote
- LA Times (reg req'd): Ex-Baathists Play Crucial Insurgent Role, U.S. Says
- Washington Post: Iraqi Security Forces: Hunters and Hunted
- Christian Science Monitor: Iraqi police take brunt of attacks

Articles 1.10.2005

Updated 14:00 cst
The Las Vegas Review-Journal and Las Vegas Sun have articles on Pfc. Daniel F. Guastaferro, of the 1-503rd, who died in Ramadi on 1.7.2005. Guastaferro died when his humvee "ran off the road and plunged into a canal, the military said." He had lived with his grandmother in Las Vegas, and had studied in California before joining the Army in 2003. Neighbors described Pfc. Guastaferro as a racing enthusiast. He was 27 years old.
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The Plymouth Pilot-News, IN, has an article on a 2nd BCT soldier's upcoming R&R leave. Pfc. Matt Linse, who's unit wasn't given beyond the 2nd BCT, called his wife on Christmas day to inform her that he would be home in mid-January. Pfc. Linse had been in Korea for 2 months when the 2nd BCT received news of its redeployment to Iraq.
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Posted 09:00 cst
The Stars & Stripes has an article on Sgt. Bennie J. Washington, of the 44th Engineers, who died at a hospital in Texas on 1.4.2005 from injuries sustained on 10.14.2004. No other details on Sgt. Washington are available. The article notes that three other 2nd BCT soldiers were killed on 10.14.2004, Staff Sgt. Omer T. Hawkins and Pfc. Mark A. Barbret of the 44th Engineers, and Spc. Bradley S. Beard of the 2-17th Artillery. The article does not specify if they were from the same incident.
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The Washington Post reports that "the entire 13-member electoral commission in the volatile province of Anbar, west of the capital, resigned after being threatened by insurgents." The group is now in hiding. In recent weeks, insurgents in the region have been "targeting election workers, political party leaders and other participants."
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Reuters reports that a previously unknown militant group calling itself the "Secret Republican Army" has posted signs in Ramadi and one other town warning that "it would deploy “highly trained” snipers to target voters around Iraq during Jan. 30 elections."
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Other articles from the region:
- USA Today: Legitimacy of Iraqi vote at risk
- Washington Post (reg req'd): Obstacles Plague Absentee Voting For Iraqis in U.S.
- Christian Science Monitor: In Iraq, a winter of discontent
- Time Magazine: A Stealth Campaign for Iraqi candidates

Combat Fatality

The Department of Defense announced the death of a 2nd BCT soldier.

Pfc. Daniel F. Guastaferro, of the 1-503rd, died on 1.7.2005 in Ramadi "when his military vehicle left the road and went into a canal." Pfc. Guastaferro, of Las Vegas, NV, was 27 years old.

Pfc. Guastaferro was the 9th soldier of the 1-503rd, and the 49th 2nd BCT serviceman, to die while serving our country in Iraq. Our hearts go out to his family.