The War Scribe

Marines, Afghan National Police stay vigilant in southern Afghanistan

2009-05-13T07:26:00.000-07:00

Date written: May 12, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

BAKWA, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Through binoculars, a Marine spotted suspicious men in the distance. Over the radio, he passed the word. The security convoy circled around and pushed up to investigate. As they moved in closer, shots rang out from the ridge ahead, May 4, 2009.

The insurgents’ rounds impacted close to the Marines’ vehicles. On the order, the Marines returned fire causing the insurgents’ retreat. The insurgents had completely fled before a quick-reaction force and air support arrived on scene. Shortly afterward, the Marines dismounted and went up the ridge. They found no traces of casualties, just fresh tracks and probable bunkers that may have been used as outposts.

This was not a typical patrol for the Marines of Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. They have successfully kept security under control in Bakwa, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and such events are rare.

“None of them hesitated,” said Cpl. Josh B. Reasbeck, the squad leader who led the patrol that day. “They were all employed the way they were supposed to be. They all did exactly what they were taught to do. I’m really proud of all them, and I have full confidence of their abilities.”

Prior to alliance forces arriving in Bakwa, insurgent intimidation destroyed the community and pushed many people away. From testimonies of locals, the Marines know insurgents are still active in the area but have little influence.

“The security has increased tremendously with us being here and with the Afghan National Police starting to step up,” said Cpl. Chris L. Parra, a 3rd Civil Affairs Group noncommissioned officer attached to Co. I. “The people actually feel more secure now that they see the local government taking time to put in effort in providing security for the locals in the area.”

The Marines of Co. I are operating from Forward Operating Base Bakwa and two combat outposts. They continually conduct mounted and dismounted security patrols, maintain quick reaction force teams and keep a 24-hour watch over the immediate areas.

“The threat out here is improvised explosive devices,” said Reasbeck. “We don’t really worry about direct fire so much.”

Occasionally, the Marines will catch a local, who was persuaded by insurgents, planting an IED in the road, said Reasbeck.
With security efforts going well, the Marines take time to focus on training an eager-to-learn ANP.

“They seem like they really want to do their job and be the protectors of Afghanistan,” said Lance Cpl. Jacob A. Hutto, a team leader with Co. I.

Marines such as Hutto train the ANP with the help of interpreters to overcome the language barrier. The ANP are trained in basic formations, patrolling and weapons handling.

The ANP have made a considerable amount of progress from the time Co. I first arrived, said Hutto.

The Marines coordinate security patrols with the ANP, showing the local civilians that the U.S. and Afghan forces are working together, said Reasbeck.

With the ANP at their sides, the Marines visit villages to speak with locals. While in the villages, they take the opportunity to do assessments of what the people need and inquire about any activity in the area.

“Generally they’re pretty happy and welcome us with open arms,” said Hutto.

Reasbeck added that the locals are pleased to find that the Marines are willing to help with problems, such as ineffective wells. In return, the villagers are willing to share information.

“When I first got here, the people were very scared and very reluctant to come up and talk to us,” Parra said. “Now they meet us and shake our hands in public. It’s completely different now.”

Service members enjoy simple pleasures in southern Afghanistan

2009-05-10T23:48:00.000-07:00

May 3, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

CAMP BARBER, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sometimes it’s the simple pleasures in life that can make a difference when deployed.
Service members carrying out their duties in support of counterinsurgency operations aboard Camp Barber, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, can now enjoy the fresh smell of coffee and a relaxing lounge to sip a “cup of Joe” at Holy Joe’s Café, April 29, 2009.

The Camp Barber café originally opened in March, providing free coffee, hot tea and breakfast snacks to service members and civilians serving at Camp Barber, but the moniker “Holy Joe’s” isn’t an entirely new name to forward-deployed service members.

The café at Camp Barber derived its name from the Holy Joe’s Café project, which was started in 2006 by the First Congregational Church in Wallingford, Conn., as a coffee drive, providing military chaplains in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait the opportunity to further support U.S. service members deployed overseas.

In an effort to support her fellow service members in what she calls “a little piece of home,” Navy Lt. Karen J. Rector, the Combat Logistics Battalion 3 chaplain, collected matted flooring, put up camouflage netting for shade, and gathered benches and tables to give coffee and tea-drinking patrons a comfortable and appealing place to take a break. CLB-3 Sgt. Maj. Danny Duvall volunteered a bit of his spare time and artistry, decorating the café’s tables and benches with an eclectic holy-Hawaiian-desert-patriotic motif to make things interesting for the patrons as they enjoy their “cup of Joe” or tea.

“Coffee in the morning helps you face the adversities that you’re going to face that day,” said 1st Lt. Jason D. Ryan, the supply officer assigned to Headquarters Company, CLB-3. “If you get a bad cup of coffee, you know it’s going to be a bad day,” joked Ryan.

Ryan said his day would be incomplete if he wasn’t able to get his cup of coffee and feels it’s an important part of his morning.

“Holy Joe’s has the best coffee on Camp Barber,” Ryan said. “There are some things in Afghanistan that are always tough, but it should never be your first cup of coffee.”

Coffee isn’t the only sustenance provided at Holy Joe’s. The café also provides juices, cereal and cold milk and various breakfast foods to start off the day.

Rector attributes much of the café’s success to the donated supplies she receives through the “Adopt-a-Chaplain Program” and the individuals who donate their time and effort to support the troops through the chaplains’ services.

Holy Joe’s recently held its official grand opening April 20, 2009, announcing its place in the camp and all that it has to offer. Those who participated in the social event were welcomed with a barbeque picnic, refreshments and a raffle of prizes to top the night.

Combat Logistics Battalion 3 is the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan whose mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police.

ISAF top enlisted meets with Marines in Afghanistan

2009-05-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

Date written: May 1, 2009
Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Afghanistan’s top enlisted leader personally delivered a message to Marines on Camp Leatherneck in the Islamic republic of Afghanistan May 1, 2009 – “we couldn’t have selected a better outfit to come down here.”

Command Sgt. Maj. Iuniasolua T. Savusa, the International Security Assistance Force and U.S. Forces Afghanistan command sergeant major, spent part of the day touring construction sites on Camp Leatherneck and observing the development of Camp Bastion’s new expeditionary airfield, in preparation for the arrival of the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade. However, Savusa had an additional mission in mind – he wanted to speak with the troops.

“Listening to what they really need is what every senior enlisted leader is charged by their commanders to do,” he said. “Marines do very well in (counter insurgency environments) and at gaining the trust of the people. I’m here to listen … and push out the resources needed to build up Leatherneck and the (forward operating bases) so they can accomplish that mission.”

Savusa spent the majority of his trip answering questions and speaking about the pivotal role Marines and sailors will play in supporting the Afghan people during their upcoming presidential elections.

“It’s all about being on one team,” said Sgt. Maj. Paul G. McKenna, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan sergeant major. “CSM Savusa and I are on the same page when it comes to taking care of all NATO and U.S. service members in this coalition environment. Our visit today to Camp Leatherneck is a display of that partnership and demonstrates to all hands that regardless of the style of uniform you wear, we all execute from the same playbook.”

Savusa left a few parting words for the Marines “on the ground.”

“We need the Marines here as soon as we possibly can to bring the level of security and trust way up,” Savusa said. “We have to help the Afghan people get their lives back. While you’re out there, be safe and take care of each other.”

Marines in southern Afghanistan build for future, construct Camp Leatherneck

2009-05-10T07:53:00.000-07:00

April 27, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Camp Leatherneck, soon to be the largest Marine Corps camp in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is making an impression in the soils of southern Afghanistan, April 27, 2009.

A sign of the U.S. Marine Corps’ commitment to counterinsurgency operations, and the training and mentoring of the Afghan National Police in southern Afghanistan, the camp will eventually be able to house about 10,000, including members of U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force and civilian contractors.

According to Capt. Bart Lecher, the Headquarters Company commander assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, Leatherneck is designed to be a hub for the reception, staging, onward movement and integration of Marine forces into southern Afghanistan.

Camp Leatherneck is currently under the operational control of Col. Duffy W. White, the commander of SPMAGTF-A until the arrival of the camp’s main tenant – the headquarters of the 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

“The project started in January with nothing but dirt and currently, four months later, the camp is fully capable, housing nearly 5,000 personnel,” Lecher said.

Currently residing in the camp, Navy Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 5 are supporting much of the construction.

“They’re the best at their jobs, and the amount of work they do can’t be matched,” said Marine Capt. Joshua Guide, the company commander of Co. B, NMCB-5, and the Marine liaison with the SPMAGTF-A mayor cell for the camp. “They’re a valuable asset to the Marine expeditionary brigade (who will be taking over Camp Leatherneck).”

Guide said he finds his position with the SeaBees to be unique, but at the same time he feels it’s an honor to have the opportunity to lead the SeaBees.

One of the camp’s largest projects is the construction of three headquarters buildings for the MEB, the regimental combat team and the garrison. At more than 200 feet in length and 10,000 square feet, the Southwest Asia-style wooden structures are recognized by the SeaBees and Marines as the largest of their kind ever built.

While the SeaBees are hard at work, the Marines have jumped into the building frenzy within the camp, assisting the Seabees with squaring walls, placing support pedestals and undertaking other various construction tasks when they have extra time to spare.

“A bunch of us volunteered to come out and help,” said Sgt. Dennis A. Lum, a field radio operator assigned to Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28. “I love building, and I love helping.”

Also playing an important role in the construction of the camp, civilian contractors have worked to erect tents and living quarters, as well as provide life support comforts, such as dining facilities, maintenance shelters and morale, welfare and recreational facilities for the incoming service members.

“The contractors have been absolutely huge,” said 1st Lt. Kieran R. O’Neil, the camp commandant for Brigade Headquarters Group. “They are a vital component to this base. Their mission is getting all the buildings set up.”

O’Neil said that up to 10,000 personnel will be rolling through the camp to receive equipment and push out to the forward operating bases located throughout southern Afghanistan.

“We’re living as the construction is going on everyday, and the Marines are adapting,” said Gunnery Sgt. Claude A. Pile, the logistics chief for the Brigade Headquarters Group. “I walk around all day and talk to the Marines. Even though they’re on the camp for now and the conditions are challenging at the moment, you can still see it in their faces. They want to be here.”

Marine Corps planners say the potential exists to expand the camp to three times its original size in 2010.

Marines construct world’s largest aircraft combat parking expansion in Afghanistan

2009-05-08T00:24:00.000-07:00

May 4, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

CAMP BASTION, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – From dawn until dusk, a unit of Marines works diligently preparing an aircraft parking expansion to support the scheduled increase of U.S. Marines and service members in the southern region of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, May 1, 2009.

“The Marines want their aircraft closer to the fight,” said Capt. Carlton Wilson, the Airfield Operations company commander of Marine Wing Support Squadron 371.

That is why the Marines of MWSS-371 are constructing the 1.9 million square-foot parking expansion adjacent to the airfield aboard Camp Bastion in Helmand Province.

The 4,846-foot-long expansion, which is scheduled for completion within the next few months, will provide military aircraft a place to park after landing at the Camp Bastion airfield, a service currently not available due to space limitations.

The project goes hand-in-hand with and supports the construction of nearby Camp Leatherneck, the home of the headquarters of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, which will have 10,000 Marines and service members under its command.
Wilson said the expansion project is led by MWSS-371’s expeditionary airfield technicians but almost every Marine assigned to the squadron, regardless of military occupational specialty, is contributing to the completion of the project.

“We have Marines from all over the squadron out there constructing the parking expansion with the expeditionary airfield technicians,” he said. “The expeditionary airfield technicians instruct and mentor the volunteers, and together they get the work done.”
Wilson said that the parking expansion will be the second largest of its kind in the world, behind that of Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., but it is the largest ever built in a combat environment.

Lance Cpl. Joe Sullivan, an expeditionary airfield technician, said the expansion project, which is commonly referred to as “slamming mat,” is by no means an easy task. The 12-foot-long by 2-foot-wide sections of aluminum matting, or AM-2, used to construct the expansion weighs up to 150 pounds per sheet, and the Marines install it by hand.

Sullivan added that the environment poses challenges for the Marines working on the project.

“It’s hot and extremely dusty,” Sullivan said. “Almost everywhere you go there are dust funnels, but together, we work through it.”

The expeditionary airfield technicians also work side-by-side with U.S. Navy SeaBees assigned to Navy Mobile Construction Battalion 5 and heavy-equipment operators from within MWSS-371.

“The Navy Seabees and heavy equipment operators do the groundwork, leveling and grading the soil, to ensure the matting goes down flat, so we don’t have to pick it up multiple times,” Sullivan said. “We try to get it right the first time.”

Wilson added that the work is hard, but the Marines are doing the job quickly and efficiently.

“The construction of the parking expansion requires a lot of manual labor, but the Marines are extremely motivated and enjoy contributing to the fight,” said Wilson.

According to MWSS-371’s commanding officer, Lt. Col. David E. Jones, his squadron’s ability to construct projects like the aircraft parking expansion provides the Marine Air-Ground Task Force with a capability that’s unmatched.

“MWSS-371 extends the reach of the MAGTF and makes U.S. Marine Corps aviation expeditionary,” Jones said. “We help make the MAGTF the dynamic organization that it is.”

Marine Wing Support Squadron 371 is part of the 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s air combat element. The mission of 2nd MEB is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police.

Commandant's wife donates supplies to Afghans

2009-05-06T23:49:00.000-07:00

BAKWA, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Alex Haney hands out material assistance items to local Afghan children April 19, 2009, at a village in Bakwa, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The supplies were donated by Annette Conway, the spouse of 34th Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James T. Conway, and included shoes, clothing and school supplies.

Haney is a fireteam leader with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. The SPMAGTF-A mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(U.S. Marine Corps courtesy photo)

BAKWA, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – An Afghan child holds material assistance items distributed by Afghan National Police and U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), April 19, 2009, at a village in Bakwa, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The supplies were donated by Annette Conway, the spouse of 34th Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James T. Conway, and included shoes, clothing and school supplies.

3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. The SPMAGTF-A mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(U.S. Marine Corps courtesy photo)

BAKWA, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – An Afghan child demonstrates his writing skills on a chalkboard after receiving material assistance items distributed by Afghan National Police and U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), April 19, 2009, at a village in Bakwa, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The supplies were donated by Annette Conway, the spouse of 34th Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James T. Conway, and included shoes, clothing and school supplies.
3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. The SPMAGTF-A mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(U.S. Marine Corps courtesy photo)

BAKWA, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Second Lt. Dennis Dunbar hands out material assistance items to a local Afghan farmer April 19, 2009, at a village in Bakwa, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The supplies were donated by Annette Conway, the spouse of 34th Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James T. Conway, and included shoes, clothing and school supplies.

Dunbar is a platoon commander with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. The SPMAGTF-A mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(U.S. Marine Corps courtesy photo)

ISAF deputy commander visits Nowzad Marines

2009-05-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – An aerial gunner observes the landscape as CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopters with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362 fly across the Afghan desert May 5, 2009, in Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

HMH-362, part of the aviation combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, recently redeployed from Iraq to Afghanistan to support counterinsurgency operations here.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by 1st Lt. Stewart M. Coles)

NOW ZAD, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Col. Duffy W. White speaks with U.S. Marines May 5, 2009, at Forward Operating Base Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

White came to discuss operations with leaders from International Security Assistance Force’s Regional Command South and 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.

White is the commander of SPMAGTF-A, whose mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by 1st Lt. Stewart M. Coles)

NOW ZAD, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopters with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362 prepare to land May 5, 2009, in the district of Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

HMH-362, part of the aviation combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, recently redeployed from Iraq to Afghanistan to support counterinsurgency operations here.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by 1st Lt. Stewart M. Coles)

NOW ZAD, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – British Royal Marine Brigadier David A. Hook and U.S. Marine Lt. Col. David L. Odom discuss operations May 5, 2009, at Forward Operating Base Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Hook is the deputy commander of International Security Assistance Force’s Regional Command South. Odom is the commanding officer of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by 1st Lt. Stewart M. Coles)

Country music star Toby Keith performs for Marines in southern Afghanistan

2009-04-28T22:40:00.000-07:00

April 25, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Country music star Toby Keith rocked the sands of southern Afghanistan while performing for service members at forward operating bases Bakwa and Delaram, and Camp Leatherneck, in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, April 23, 2009.

At Camp Leatherneck, about 2,000 concertgoers, consisting mainly of U.S. Marines and a number of Navy, Army, Air Force service members and civilian contractors, as well as foreign military members, crowded around the small stage cheering as Toby Keith and The Easy Money Band took the stage.

One song fittingly performed for the Marines and possibly loud enough to be heard for miles was “The Taliban Song,” stirring the crowd into a frenzy, encouraging them to sing along.

“I wish that he would have sung more songs, but I enjoyed every one he did, especially The Taliban Song,” said Lance Cpl. Jennifer N. Hays, a radio operator assigned to Headquarters Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3. “It made being out here surreal because everything’s been so real for the last six months. It was nice for us to be able to take our minds off things at least a little while.”

Keith, a strong supporter of the U.S. military, donned a tri-colored camouflage uniform and a 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), baseball cap, which was presented to him at an acoustic performance earlier that day at FOB Delaram.

“It was pretty big for the small FOBs because they’re not used to seeing stuff like that regularly,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Francisco Olmos, the Marine Corps Community Service chief assigned to Headquarters Co., CLB-3. “Since two of the (United Service Organizations) shows had been cancelled previously, it was a good thing that it came through and the feedback was excellent.”

Olmos said he has received feedback from family members stating how happy their service members were with the experience.

Although Keith let his songs do most of the talking, he did manage to get a few words out over the loud roar of the crowd.

“Thanks for your service,” Keith said. “That’s why I’m here, by God. I appreciate ya.”

Another patriotic song performed by Keith was “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” leaving many Marines holding their covers high in the air to show their appreciation.

“It was a success from start to finish, and it was a great thing to do,” Olmos said. “It’s a good way to go home and end the tour out here by bringing a morale booster this big out here for the war fighters.”

Afghanistan deployed Corpsmen conduct ambulance training

2009-04-28T22:34:00.000-07:00

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Orlando X. Delacruz demonstrates how a heavy armored ground ambulance can be turned into a tactical vehicle by flipping the several red crosses located around the vehicle’s exterior April 24, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Delacruz and a team of corpsmen with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s aviation combat element conducted familiarization training in preparation for utilizing the life-saving vehicle in-theater.

Delacruz is a hospital corpsman with the ACE.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Orlando X. Delacruz explains how night vision can be mounted onto a heavy armored ground ambulance to Navy Lt. Janet West April 24, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Delacruz and a team of corpsmen with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s aviation combat element conducted familiarization training in preparation for utilizing the life-saving vehicle in-theater.

Delacruz is a hospital corpsman with the ACE. West is the ACE flight surgeon.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Orlando X. Delacruz explains to Navy Lt. Janet West how some of a heavy armored ground ambulance’s medical equipment can be mounted to its exterior April 24, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Delacruz and a team of corpsmen with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s aviation combat element conducted familiarization training in preparation for utilizing the life-saving vehicle in-theater.

Delacruz is a hospital corpsman with the ACE. West is the ACE flight surgeon.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

Gordon Brown visits Afghanistan deployed Marines

2009-04-28T22:21:00.000-07:00

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – British Prime Minister Gordon Brown shakes hands with Cpl. Sophia Meas before speaking to International Security Assistance Force troops at Camp Bastion, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, April 27, 2009.
During his visit, Brown told the troops that he was thankful for the hard work they are performing in southern Afghanistan.
Meas is a warehouse clerk with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – British Prime Minister Gordon Brown speaks to International Security Assistance Force troops at Camp Bastion, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, April 27, 2009. During his visit, Brown told the troops that he was thankful for the hard work they are performing in southern Afghanistan.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – British Prime Minister Gordon Brown speaks to International Security Assistance Force troops at Camp Bastion, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, April 27, 2009. During his visit, Brown told the troops that he was thankful for the hard work they are performing in southern Afghanistan.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)

HMH-362 takes the fight from Iraq to Afghanistan

2009-04-28T21:23:00.000-07:00

Date written: April 26, 2009
Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – On April 15, 1962, a squadron of Marines launched from the USS Princeton to Soc Trang, Vietnam, becoming the first Marine helicopter squadron in-country. Those Marines began a proud tradition of combat deployments that day. Today the same unit continues their combat tradition in Afghanistan.

Unlike the majority of units serving in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362, part of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s aviation combat element, didn’t deploy from its home station at Marine Corps Base Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii – it deployed to Afghanistan from Al Asad, Iraq.

Originally deployed to Iraq Jan. 23, 2009, to conduct assault support, logistics and movement of personnel missions, the unit was given a new mission shortly after arriving: pack up and go to Afghanistan.

“Afghanistan is where the fight is now,” said Lt. Col. Jeffrey A. Hagan, HMH-362’s commander. “There was a planned drawdown in Iraq and an increasing need for medium lift capabilities in Afghanistan. So we begin making arrangements to move from Al Asad to Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan.”

Though the unit was motivated and prepared for their new mission, environmental differences between the two theaters coupled with operational requirements called for major modifications to the Ugly Angels’ CH-53D Sea Stallions.

The unit’s maintenance Marines began working around the clock to exchange the T64-GE-413 engines, typically found in CH-53Ds, to hotter burning T64-GE-416 engines used in CH-53E Super Stallions, according to Master Sgt. Robert Webb, the Maintenance Section chief.

In addition to the modifications, the Marines had to partially dismantle their aircraft for transportation to Afghanistan; each bird was sent one at a time. But despite their daunting task, the Marines pulled together, rolled up their sleeves and went to work.
“Our maintenance Marines are the best in the Marine Corps,” said Maj. Gary W. Thomason, HMH-362’s Aircraft Maintenance officer. “On their backs is how we made this happen. I think I speak for everyone involved when I say, fantastic job.”

After more than two months of backbreaking work, the Ugly Angles are in Afghanistan, eager to take the fight to the enemy.

“This deployment has been a great experience,” said Cpl. Jorge Toledo, a crew chief and flight line mechanic with HMH-362. “We’ve been able to operate in both areas of operation and it’s been a good training opportunity with the demanding terrain and climate differences. Since arriving in Afghanistan, I personally was able to be a part of testing seven aircraft in twelve days. I have gained more experience on this one deployment than my whole time in the Marine Corps.”

Today, the Marines and their Sea Stallions are ready to tackle whatever the insurgency and Afghanistan’s terrain throw at them.

“We expect the mission set to remain relatively the same,” Hagan said. “Given the more kinetic nature of this theater, I would expect to see more raid and quick reaction force support than was executed during our time in Iraq. But the Marines are excited and eager to do what Marines do. This deployment has proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that my Marines can, are eager and willing to accomplish any task thrown at them.”

On April 15, the 47-year anniversary of the unit’s Vietnam deployment, The Ugly Angles arrived in Afghanistan. HMH-362 began combat operations April 22.

Afghans, Marines complete Golestan bazaar project

2009-04-23T06:19:00.000-07:00

April 23, 2009
Story by 1st Lt. Stewart M. Coles

GOLESTAN, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Afghan officials and civil affairs Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan completed a project to improve the drainage system for the district center bazaar in Golestan, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, April 3, 2009.

The project, one of several for the district, was the result of a request from area leaders because the bazaar did not have an adequate drainage system. Standing water would collect in the roadway, causing unsanitary conditions and hazards for drivers.

The $14,000 project employed 50 Afghan civilians, giving them an alternative to going to nearby districts to harvest poppy.
"There are not a lot of jobs, and sometimes people go down the wrong route," said Qasim Khan, the district sub-governor, as translated by an interpreter.

With the improved conditions, the locals can drive through the bazaar without their vehicles getting stuck in puddles left behind from rainfall.

The new drainage system is expected to bring increased commerce to the bazaar from outlying villages in the district.

"The people are happy that you are here and that you are focused on the bazaar because it is the center of the community," said Khan to the Marines.

Future projects already in the works for the district include: the distribution of 85 tons of wheat, the donation of live chickens, passing out material assistance items, installing a local radio station in the city and adding solar-powered street lamps and public restrooms in the bazaar. Each of these initiatives is based on Afghan needs.

SPMAGTF-A and International Security Assistance Force assist the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan with providing security and services for the Afghan people.

Veterans adopt 1,200 Marines in southern Afghanistan

2009-04-23T04:07:00.000-07:00

April 17, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

DELARAM, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – “Once a Marine, always a Marine” is a phrase often heard around the Marine Corps, but several dedicated Marine veterans, coined “The Moss Creek Marines,” have taken the phrase to a new level.

The Moss Creek Marines are a group of 35 veteran Marines and Navy corpsmen, and Marine spouses and parents from eras ranging from WWII to the Gulf War, one of whom saw both flags raised on Iwo Jima in World War II. The group focuses on “adopting” and showing its appreciation to Marine units deployed to combat zones.

Not forgetting their roots, the Moss Creek Marines adopted the 1,200 Marines and sailors of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. The South Carolina-based organization sent 3/8 a total of 87 care packages, worth several thousand dollars, that included eight Xbox 360 videogame consoles, telephone calling cards, toiletries, candy and snacks, DVDs and letters from children with whom the Moss Creek Marines have interacted in the past months.

The Moss Creek Marines have previously adopted 12 other units in Iraq, but 3/8 is the first unit the organization has adopted in Afghanistan.

Lt. j.g. Jason DiPinto, the 3/8 chaplain, said the care packages are much appreciated and will be of great use not only to the Marines currently deployed, but also the Marines who will soon replace 3/8.

“The care packages are great because the Marines are in extremely difficult situations, and with the packages and gaming systems, it gives the Marines an opportunity to release some of the stress that is often acquired while in a combat zone,” said DiPinto.

The battalion’s plan is to distribute the packages among the austere forward-operating bases and combat outposts located in southern Afghanistan.

The Marines are excited about the Xbox 360 gaming consoles.
“It’s always good for the morale of the Marines to have some form of entertainment in a combat zone,” said Cpl. Michael Shupack, an assistant security chief with Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, whose detachment of Marines are also benefiting from the donated items. “It’s hard for us to personally thank those who have supported us, but it goes unspoken. We definitely appreciate everything they have done for us.”

DiPinto said the deployed Marines and sailors appreciate the patriotism and thoughtfulness of the veteran Marine organization.

“It is an honor to be able to walk on the path that these veterans have paved for us,” Dipinto said. “Their contribution means more to us than words can describe. They have gone above and beyond their call of duty to ensure the Marines and sailors who are deployed have all they need to carry on the legacy of our forefathers.”

Alan Calderon, the commanding officer of the Moss Creek Marines, himself a veteran of the Vietnam War, explained in his own words why his organization feels it is important to support deployed Marines.

“On behalf of all of us in the Moss Creek Marines, thank you for all that you do to maintain our freedom,” Calderon said. “We all know that freedom is not free. God bless America and God bless the Marine Corps.”

Cobb County Marine serves proudly in Afghanistan

2009-04-23T04:01:00.000-07:00

Date written: April 20, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

GOLESTAN, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Dustin C. Spicer wanted to call it quits while attending South Cobb High School from 2004-2007. He figured he would work for his father selling automobiles and eventually take over his father’s business. As he looks back, he’s glad to have been persuaded to do otherwise.

“When I started high school, I really didn’t have any goals at all,” said Spicer. “I hated school and wanted to get out. I really didn’t care. I thought I was going to end up working with my dad and take over the family business anyway. Then I met a few teachers who turned my whole perspective around.”

During his first combat tour, he’s found himself in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, surrounded by barren, mountainous terrain. Far from home, he thinks about the people who have influenced him most, leading him to where he is today.

Now the 21-year-old Cobb County, Ga., native is a Marine Corps infantryman with second platoon, Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. He’s focused and ready for the mission.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations in support of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police.

Henley Sawicki, his biology teacher; Andrew Cole, his U.S. history teacher; Helen Lane, his math teacher; and Jamison Warner, a science department teacher; all of South Cobb High School, took a part in shaping his future, he said.

“They taught me a lot about life, just by taking the time to sit down and talk to me,” said Spicer.

The lessons his teachers taught him have left a lasting impression on him, and he’s carried what he learned from them over to the Marine Corps.

“My teachers showed me I could do better,” said Spicer. “They proved to me that if I actually tried, I could do not only what I needed to pass but actually do better than just pass and that I have great potential.”

Spicer believes the best advice his teachers ever gave him was to set goals and not give into failure or laziness until he achieved them. And once he had accomplished those goals, he should set even higher ones and keep the stride going.

His teachers also taught their hot-tempered student how to re-channel his aggression when he got easily upset, Spicer said.

They taught him to stop and calmly think things through, while setting his feelings aside, a skill all Marines must develop.

Learning to set his differences with others aside and remaining professional are important when it comes to completing the mission, he said.

“There are some people that will (make you mad), but out here they’re your family and you still have their backs,” said Spicer. “You may not like someone, but something might happen to them and you have to be there for them no matter what.”

As a kid, Spicer remembers his mother taking him to bingo nights at a local Veterans of Foreign Wars post where he met veterans and heard their stories, which led him to thinking of joining the military when he was old enough.

“I never thought that I would actually do it though,” said Spicer.

Later on in life, one of Spicer’s best friends, Cody Evans, who also attended South Cobb High School a grade ahead of Spicer, joined the Marine Corps.

“We were just alike in high school,” said Spicer. “We didn’t care about anything. We just wanted to get by.”

After returning home from recruit training, Evens told Spicer what the Marine Corps had done for him. Intrigued by what Evans told him, Spicer contemplated the idea of enlisting once again.

Thanks to the teachers’ confidence in Spicer, he stuck it out and graduated in May 2007.

Though he has a lot of special memories from high school, it was when he walked across the stage and received his diploma that he reserves as his proudest moment.

“That was the first time my dad ever said he was proud of me,” said Spicer. “It kind of made it a big deal.”

Shortly after graduating, Spicer enlisted into the Marine Corps.

“My family is very proud of me,” Spicer said. “My mom doesn’t like that I’m over here right now, but she couldn’t be more proud of me.”

Spicer is unsure whether he will make a career of the Marine Corps, but he says he would like to use the Montgomery G.I. Bill to attend the University of Georgia, where he would earn a degree in business management.

Spicer still hopes to own and run a business back home. He is just taking a bit of different route to get there than he had originally planned.

CLB-3 brings mobile exchange, post office to Marines in remote southern Afghanistan

2009-04-23T02:43:00.000-07:00

April 9, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Combat Logistics Battalion 3 delivered some of the amenities of daily life that most take for granted during a specialized combat logistics patrol to Forward Operating Base Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, April 1, 2009.
CLB-3, the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, made the delivery of precious cargo to the Marines of Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of SPMAGTF-A, who are serving in one of the most remote and austere areas of southern Afghanistan.

The cargo – enough containers filled with food, beverages, toiletries and much-needed uniform items to create an expeditionary post exchange. Additionally, 10 large containers of mail were transported aboard the trucks by second platoon, Motor Transportation Company, CLB-3.

With mountainous terrain encircling much of the FOB, an abandoned district center nearby and enemy insurgent forces scattered throughout, Co. L Marines rely mostly on combat logistics patrols and air deliveries for supplies and provisions from CLB-3.

“I think it went very well,” said Gunnery Sgt. Brian K. Scarbrough, the Marine Corps Exchange manager assigned to CLB-3, whose services directly enhance SPMAGTF-A’s morale, welfare and recreation programs.

Scarbrough explained that he brings items the Marines want or can’t get and makes sure he takes as much of the items as possible to meet their needs.

The Marines at the FOB may go two weeks to a month before seeing a logistics patrol depending on factors such as weather, terrain conditions and the overall logistics challenges and demands of southern Afghanistan.

“Bringing the exchange boosts morale, and the Marines get what they want or need,” Scarbrough said. “They’re ecstatic, and it’s like their icing on the cake.”
Utilizing the FOB’s dining facility as the exchange site, CLB-3 Marines carried in boxes of chips, crackers, energy drinks, soft drinks, hygiene products and uniform items, filling most of the building’s capacity.

Scarbrough said the Marines see all the little things that are taken for granted because they don’t always have them.

“People don’t realize the extent of what we do as (Marine Corps Community Services Marines) Marines,” said Scarbrough. “Personally, I was happy to be involved and able to give the Marines who are actually in the fight the opportunity to get what they need.”

At a small table, Cpl. Bona Chantha, a disbursing clerk assigned to CLB-3, provided the Marines the opportunity to withdraw a cash advance, making it possible for them to make purchases at the mobile post exchange.

“It was a great opportunity to serve the Marines who are in the fight, as well as see how they interact at the FOB,” Chantha said.

Equally as important for the Marines at the FOB was CLB-3’s first mobile post office, giving Marines the opportunity not only to send letters home but also extra personal items they’ve accumulated, which many packed in storage trunks that were purchased at the mobile post exchange.

“It was a big hit,” said Staff Sgt. Jason N. Dixon, the postal chief based out of Okinawa, Japan, who is currently assigned to CLB-3. “It was really successful, and we were really busy.”

Dixon said the Marines were extremely happy to send home letters and lighten their load of non-essential personal belongings before redeploying home.

As well as collecting outbound mail, Dixon also brought the 10 large containers-worth of inbound mail with him.

“It feels great,” said Cpl. Ryan P. Little, an automatic rifleman assigned to second platoon, Co. L. “We knew it was coming, and everybody was excited.”

Dixon said CLB-3 did an excellent job, and he was impressed with what they accomplished.

“They did a bang-up job, and I appreciated the help that I got from my fellow CLB-3 (Marines),” said Dixon. “They were ready and willing to volunteer and help out.”

At the end of the one-day mobile post exchange and mail operation, $20,433 of total goods were sold, and the post office accepted more than 5,000 pounds of outbound mail for processing.

Since arriving in Afghanistan, Scarbrough’s post exchange sales have totaled more than $429,000, including sales to all of the U.S. military’s service branches, as well as civilian Department of Defense personnel and alliance forces. Dixon’s postal operation has received nearly 600,000 pounds of mail and out-processed more than 74,000 pounds of mail. CLB-3’s disbursing section has provided services to almost 14,000 customers in casual payments totaling nearly $1.5 million.

3/8 Marines stay prepared, vigilant

2009-04-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), maneuver across the Afghan terrain in a humvee April 10, 2009, in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, whose mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Kingley Arrajo remains vigilant at an observation post April 10, 2009, in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
Arrajo is a mortarman with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Kingley Arrajo remains vigilant at an observation post April 10, 2009, in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
Arrajo is a mortarman with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)

ISAF, Afghan leaders meet in Delaram, Farah province

2009-04-21T20:58:00.000-07:00

DELARAM, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – International Security Assistance Force commander U.S. Army Gen. David D. McKiernan and other ISAF leaders met with Afghan officials and community leaders from Farah Province at Forward Operating Base Delaram, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, April 17, 2009.

The ISAF leaders met with the sub-governors of Bakwa, Delaram and Golestan districts, the mayor of Delaram, Afghan National Police officials and local Afghan elders to discuss the progress of ongoing operations and the future of Afghanistan.

The Afghan leaders said they were pleased with the efforts of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan to provide security to the area, and offered suggestions on how ISAF and Afghan security forces can work better together in the future. McKiernan also listened to requests for development projects such as road paving and improved cellular phone service.

The Marines of SPMAGTF-A have been working alongside the Afghan National Police and conducting operations with the Afghan National Army to ensure security and freedom of movement for the Afghan people. The improved security in the area has enabled the Afghans and Marines to implement several reconstruction projects, including an irrigation project in Golestan, a road improvement project in Delaram and a bazaar clean-up project in Bakwa.

SPMAGTF-A and ISAF support the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in providing security and services for the Afghan people.

U.S. Marines strike insurgent positions in Now Zad, Afghanistan

2009-04-10T22:18:00.000-07:00

Date written: April 6, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

NOW ZAD, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan conducted a major combat operation against insurgent forces in Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, April 3, 2009.

The Marines of Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, struck well-known enemy locations identified within and near the insurgent-infested Now Zad district center.

“Now Zad’s district center is kind of a unique place in Afghanistan because there is no local civilian population,” said 1st Lt. Mike H. Buonocore, the executive officer of Co. L.

Company L was reinforced by engineers with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of SPMAGTF-A, aviation support from the aviation combat element, rocket artillery support from SPMAGTF-A’s Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, Air Force and Navy aviation assets and Army rocket artillery support. During the combat operation, the Co. L Marines targeted positively identified enemy positions where insurgent attacks have originated from over the past several months. Other locations were identified with intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets.

The two major components involved in the operation were a ground force and an aerial assault. Enemy targets were destroyed by combined fires from rocket artillery, aircraft, mortars and ground troops.

“The mission took some enemy forces out of the fight and showed them how much force we have with us and what we can use against them,” said Cpl. Andrew C. Conte, a squad leader with the ground assault element. “It really cleared out some of the areas we were having troubles in.”

The ground scheme of maneuver employed Co. L as the main effort by conducting a raid on a known enemy position, while other Marines held blocking positions to ensure insurgent reinforcements were denied freedom of movement and the opportunity to engage the Marine forces.

Navy F/A-18C Hornet fighter-attack aircraft, an Air Force B-1B Lancer bomber, Marine AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopters, the Army’s tactical missile system and Btry. D, 2/14’s high mobility artillery rocket system set conditions for the operation by employing precision munitions on key insurgent targets.

“Once the bombs started dropping there wasn’t too much movement,” said Conte. “With all the ground forces out there and everything we had overhead, it was calm because we knew nothing was going to touch us.”

Additional munitions were called in on other known enemy positions to ensure the raid force was successful. Upon initial disruption of the enemy locations, the assault element moved in and conducted thorough site exploitation.

“We were able to engage some enemy targets before they engaged us,” said Cpl. Taylor E. Vogel, a forward observer with the 81 mm mortar platoon. “We were able to drop mortars on (enemy) fire teams that were moving in on (Marine) units. We definitely achieved what we wanted to. We destroyed the big targets that have been occupied by enemy forces.”

Leading up to the operation, the Marines had proactively conducted combat operations in Now Zad’s district center daily in order to shape the battlefield by moving insurgents into disposable positions. Marines took precaution by using leaflet drops and radio broadcasts in the area to warn the population in nearby villages of danger in the area, which helped create agreeable conditions that would result in little or no collateral damage.

“Throughout the winter in Afghanistan, you hear about the (insurgent) spring offensive,” said Conte. “We caught them before they caught us in the spring offensive, and we set the tone of it with showing how much (firepower) we have and what we can use.”

Insurgents attempted to counter the Marines’ strike on Now Zad with improvised explosive devices, mortars, small-arms fire and two rockets that were fired overhead with no success. Unwavering, the Marines positively identified and pursued their targets.

“The operation was a tremendous success on all levels,” said Buonocore. “The confirmed battle damage assessment is pretty significant. There were no civilian casualties, and nothing was hit that wasn’t a target. We have achieved tremendous success here against the enemy.”

Afghanistan deployed corpsmen sharpen life-saving skills

2009-04-10T07:29:00.000-07:00

Date written: April 7, 2009
Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – A medical officer sits at her desk awaiting any of her hundreds of Marines to walk through her door. She’s trained and ready to tackle any medical concern they may have. The door opens, a tall Marine walks into her tent and says, “Doc… you got a band-aid?” with a smile of relief she responds, “Yes, yes I do.”

For Navy Lt. Janet West and her team of experienced corpsmen, that simple exchange is commonplace. The majority of Marines under her charge ask for first aid supplies or the occasional medical curiosity to be answered. But she and her staff know that at any moment a life threatening situation may occur, and they have to be ready.

Despite their high operational tempo, West and her Afghanistan deployed corpsmen, with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s aviation combat element, set time aside to hone their already sharpened medical skills on a routine basis.

Recently, an example of their routine training events presented itself April 7, when West, the ACE flight surgeon, conducted a half-hour refresher on how to splint broken bones on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
What may first seem like just a short lesson served as a perfect example of the many medical skills the combat first responders practice to ensure they can provide quick and efficient medical treatment when the bullets start flying.

“Short, but frequent, sessions keep them fresh, engaged and helps them retain what they’ve learned,” West said. “When they find themselves in that combat situation and their stress is high, they’ll revert to their lowest level of training, the things they can do without having to think.”

West gives her “hip-pocket” classes as often as she can, ranging from routine injuries to advanced life saving techniques and on occasion, case studies of any recent or unusual scenarios they’ve encountered while deployed.

It’s those skills, practiced repeatedly over time, that have become as natural to her team as breathing, which is good news for their Marines.

“It keeps us on our toes,” said Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Stephen L. Thurston, the leading petty officer in charge of the ACE’s aid station. “It keeps us sharp. That way when we do see those injuries, knowing how to treat it just becomes second nature. This way we can just jump in and fix them when they’re hurt. That’s what Marines love about us and that’s what we’re here for.”

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.

Helo support team provides speedy delivery for Afghanistan Marines

2009-04-10T06:22:00.000-07:00

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sgt. Jeremy L. Hedrick holds a “D” ring fastened to a load of provisions for delivery to a forward operating base in southern Afghanistan by a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter at Camp Bastion March 13, 2009.

Hedrick is part of a helicopter support team that is tasked with preparing loads and ensuring they are rigged properly for airlift.

Hedrick’s primary duty is as an embark chief assigned to Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. SPMAGTF-A supports the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in providing security and services for the Afghan people.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)
CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sgt. Jeremy L. Hedrick (left) and Lance Cpl. Elliot Duncan rig a load of provisions for delivery to a forward operating base in southern Afghanistan by attaching it to a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter at Camp Bastion, March 13, 2009.

Duncan, who is assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 3, is part of the helicopter support team.

The HST prepares loads to be airlifted, ensuring they are properly packaged and rigged to lift by air, as well as coordinates with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), to make sure the Marines at the FOBs in Afghanistan are supplied with the materials they need to succeed.

“Our mission is to support 3/8 and ensure the Marines at the FOBs receive gear to complete their mission, as well as ensure they have food and water,” said Gunnery Sgt. Jennifer J. Alderette, the landing support platoon commander, assigned to Support Company, CLB-3.

The team has completed 65 successful air lifts since it arrived in Afghanistan in November 2008, totaling 474,425 pounds of cargo. The airlifts are used as an alternative to delivering supplies by truck when time is of the essence.

“HSTs are faster, and we’re not putting as many Marines on the ground or in danger,” Alderette said of delivering supplies by air. “It’s exciting knowing the fact that we’re supporting the Marines at the FOBs who’re out doing the fighting and working hard to accomplish the mission and we’re the ones who are here to support them. It’s our way of contributing to the fight.”

CLB-3 is the logistics combat element, and 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. SPMAGTF-A supports the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in providing security and services for the Afghan people.

Duncan is the helicopter support team noncommissioned officer assigned to Support Co., CLB-3. Hedrick is the embark chief assigned to Headquarters Company, 3/8.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – At daybreak, a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter crewed by Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 lifts a load of provisions packaged by the helicopter support team for delivery to a forward operating base in southern Afghanistan, at Camp Bastion, March 13, 2009.

The HST is assigned to Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, and is tasked with preparing loads, ensuring they are safely rigged for airlift.

A CH-53E Super Stallion heavy lift helicopter is capable of lifting up to 32,000 pounds, but for safety purposes, HST loads average between 8,000 and 10,000 pounds.
SPMAGTF-A supports the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in providing security and services for the Afghan people.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter crewed by Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 lifts a load of provisions rigged by the helicopter support team for delivery to a forward operating base in southern Afghanistan, at Camp Bastion, March 13, 2009.

The HST is assigned to Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, and is tasked with preparing loads, ensuring they are properly packaged and safely rigged for airlift.

A CH-53E Super Stallion heavy lift helicopter is capable of lifting up to 32,000 pounds, but for safety purposes, HST loads average between 8,000 and 10,000 pounds.
SPMAGTF-A supports the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in providing security and services for the Afghan people.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

CMC visits Marines, sailors in Afghanistan

2009-04-10T06:17:00.000-07:00

Date written: April 8, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – With a loud and thunderous “ooh-rah,” Marines and sailors of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan greeted Gen. James T. Conway, the 34th commandant of the Marine Corps, during his visit to deployed Marines in Afghanistan April 2-7.

Conway and Sgt. Maj. Carlton W. Kent, the 16th sergeant major of the Marine Corps, visited Marines of SPMAGTF-A at Kandahar Air Field, camps Barber and Leatherneck, and Forward Operating Base Delaram. Conway was briefed on the progress of the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of SPMAGTF-A.

The commandant came to the region not only to see the Marines and sailors, but also to discuss plans for the upcoming increase of Marine Corps forces in Afghanistan.

Conway also visited Lashkar Gar to meet with Helmand Provincial Governor Gulab Mangal. The two officials discussed topics concerning SPMAGTF-A’s mission in the province. At the conclusion of the meeting, Conway presented Mangal with an authentic Marine Corps walking stick.

During his visit, Conway was able to tour Camp Barber and Camp Leatherneck, which is under construction and being built to support the increased number of troops deploying to southern Afghanistan.

During his time at Camp Leatherneck, Conway had the opportunity to promote three Marines.

Cpls. Travis Zurick and Jessie Martinez, a launcher chief and communication chief with Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14 Marine Regiment, were promoted to their current rank by Conway alongside Lance Cpl. Justin Lamb, an armor with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371.

As they made their rounds, Conway and Kent took the time to talk to the Marines while opening the forum to questions.

“You are living up to the legacy of the Marines that came before you,” Kent told the Marines. “The seventh sergeant major of the Marine Corps, Hank Black, who is nearly 90 years old, still keeps up with the Marines today. I tell Marines about him all the time because every time I see him, he tells me to tell you how proud he is of you.

“No matter how long you serve, you will always be able to carry the eagle, the globe and the anchor with you,” Kent said, referring to the emblem and the spirit of the Marine Corps.

Conway gave the Marines some patriotic and encouraging words during the visit.

“All of us joined the Marine Corps knowing that one day we would probably see some combat because that is what we do. Some of you have been to a combat zone multiple times, but that is our heritage,” Conway said.

“As I speak to Marines around the Corps, I can tell you, they are all jealous of you. The Marines back at home all want to fight for their country in Afghanistan,” he said.

While at FOB Delaram, Conway ate lunch with the Marines and sailors there. Before departing from Afghanistan, Conway had a few last words for all the Marines.

“Stay strong, keep fighting and continue to uphold the legacy of the United States Marine Corps.”

Civil Affairs, Provincial Reconstruction teams assist 3/8, improve southern Afghanistan

2009-04-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

March 21, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

GOLESTAN, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The generosity of foreign aid has found its way to the isolated villages of one southern Afghan province through the hands of the provincial government with the help of Marines.

Marines with second platoon, Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, serve in Golestan, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

They work diligently to provide security for the growing community that lives under the threat of insurgents who oppose the Afghan government and alliance forces operating there.

Afghan provincial government officials and others who befriend the Marines brave-it-out each day as they deal with the pressures of the threats against their lives and the lives of their families and fellow villagers.

Second Lt. Daniel M. Yurkovich, second platoon’s commander, meets with Golestan’s Afghan leaders regularly to address local interests, such as security and the many projects that are underway to gain the support of the community.

As the Afghan National Police and volunteers keep a strong hold on security with the help of the Yurkovich’s Marines, who conduct counterinsurgency operations in the area, foreign aid is passed through the hands of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to be invested into villages that have seen increases in security, such as Golestan.

As Yurkovich keeps the doors of communication open, a civil affairs team with 3rd Civil Affairs Group and the Provincial Reconstruction Team are working to improve the community in many ways. The PRT, which consists of military officers, diplomats and engineers, supports reconstruction efforts to help empower local governments to operate more effectively.

“(Civil affairs’) interest in Golestan is to give the local government a face,” said Cpl. Aldo J. Almazan, a civil affairs noncommissioned officer. “It’s very secluded out here, so the people don’t know their government officials and have little faith in them. (Our projects) will help the people identify with them better.”

Civil affairs Marines such as Almazan speak with locals to emphasize that the Afghan government wants to provide for its people.
“We are showing them how it is surely but slowly going to happen,” said Almazan.

With the help of Yurkovich and his Marines, the civil affairs team has a foot in the door with the Afghan community to pursue smaller, community-driven projects. In some cases, the PRT follows the civil affairs team to offer support on larger-scale projects with a high impact on Afghan communities in the long term.

Brad D. Arsenault, a U.S. Agency for International Development representative for Farah Province, recently visited Golestan with PRT associates. Arsenault is part of an integrated team with the PRT that works with the U.S. departments of State and Agriculture.
“The four of us together are trying to pool our resources and get the best effects out of what we are doing,” Arsenault said of the teamwork between the organizations.

Arsenault’s job is to take a firsthand look at the projects going on in Golestan and report back to his command with recommendations.

“I really appreciate how the Marines work in small groups and get out most everyday,” said Arsenault. “They have good rapport with the district governor, census officer, district prosecutor and all the key leaders. It’s real impressive.”

Members of the civil affairs team and PRT held a meeting with leading local government officials March 13, 2009, to determine the progress of current projects and prospects of new ones. They discussed the attitudes of the locals and to whom their loyalty belongs.

The subgovernor worries that the people who don’t receive jobs through the reconstruction contracts may turn to the insurgency to find income, and he also worries that the people will expect their government to continue to provide as much for them, though there are limited funds.

“There are not a lot of jobs, and sometimes people go down the wrong route,” said Qasim Khan, the district subgovernor, as translated by an interpreter.

Concerned about security, Khan went on to warn Yurkovich of the upcoming poppy harvest and the ensuing security threat.

The poppy harvest will last approximately 18 days, and jobs are estimated to increase from 300 to 3,000 during that time, giving the people a chance to increase their income tenfold. The insurgents depend on the harvest and are not likely to back down, according to Khan.

The topic that took precedence during the meeting was the 11 schools within the district. It was determined that four of them were in good condition, while the rest needed renovating. The PRT wants to improve the structures for long-term use. The schools are also in dire need of provincial government support to supply the students with school books and other supplies.

“Before, kids feared going to school and now that they are going to school we face the problem of not having enough school books,” said Amir Mohammed, the district prosecutor. “The less books they have, the less people come to the school.”

Mohammed went on to say that education must be a top priority to help solve issues in the long run. He said although the food assistance the provincial government is providing is nice, it would be education that would ultimately solve the problem of hunger in such communities.

Marines of second platoon escorted the civil affairs and the PRT members through the city March 12, 2009, to conduct site surveys of the schools, health clinic and bazaar.

They talked to locals about their businesses and the positive effects the new projects are having on the community.

Civil affairs Marines are currently involved in projects such as the cleanup of the local bazaar, facilitating a trash pickup, road construction and a new drainage system for the bazaar. The Marines and civilians who make up the PRT were pleased to see the progress made in Golestan and have additionally begun plans to install solar-powered street lamps and public restrooms in the bazaar.

“The people are happy that you are here and that you are focused on the bazaar because it is the center of the community,” said Khan.

Golestan has seen notable security increases but still faces an insurgent threat. However, it is not stopping the provincial government, Afghan security forces and Marines from providing for the people. Civil affairs, the PRT and the provincial government will continue to push forward with their assistance.

Future projects already in the works include: the distribution of 85 tons of wheat, the donation of live chickens, passing out material assistance items and installing a local radio station in the city. Each of these initiatives is based on Afghan needs.

“What we don’t want to do is impose American standards and ideals on the community,” said Capt. Anthony R. Ward, a team leader with 3rd CAG.

Marines, sailors receive new MWR center in southern Afghanistan

2009-04-06T11:18:00.000-07:00

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Jesli P. Bowling (right) and Sgt. Louise M. Nowak work together building a wall frame during the construction of the new morale, welfare and recreation center at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, March 17, 2009.

For the past five months, Marines and sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan residing at Camp Barber have shared an internet and phone center with alliance forces. They now have their own facility to communicate with friends and loved ones while forward deployed here.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.

Bowling is a combat engineer, and Nowak is a squad leader assigned to engineering platoon, Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of SPMAGTF-A.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sgt. Louise M. Nowak (right) and Lance Cpl. Jesli P. Bowling move sheets of plywood for the construction of the new morale, welfare and recreation center at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, March 17, 2009.

For the past five months, Marines and sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan residing at Camp Barber have shared an internet and phone center with alliance forces. They now have their own facility to communicate with friends and loved ones while forward deployed here.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.

Bowling is a combat engineer, and Nowak is a squad leader assigned to engineering platoon, Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of SPMAGTF-A.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Brand new telephones sit in their booths inside the new morale, welfare and recreation center while still under construction at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, March 17, 2009.

For the past five months, Marines and sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan residing at Camp Barber have shared an internet and phone center with alliance forces. They now have their own facility to communicate with friends and loved ones while forward deployed here.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines fill the computer booths inside the new morale, welfare and recreation center at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, March 17, 2009.

For the past five months, Marines and sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan residing at Camp Barber have shared an internet and phone center with alliance forces. They now have their own facility to communicate with friends and loved ones while forward deployed here.

“I love receiving pictures from home, e-mail, jokes and family news,” said Staff Sgt. Scott A. Cochran. “It also gives me the opportunity to see my daughter grow up even though I’m not there.”

Cochran believes the center will help bring families together in their time of separation and give Marines a taste of home whether it’s through e-mail or a short conversation on the phone.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.

Cochran is the deputy disbursing officer assigned to Headquarters Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of SPMAGTF-A.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

Lt. Gen. Hejlik visits Afghanistan deployed Marines

2009-04-06T11:12:00.000-07:00

Photos by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lt. Gen. Dennis J. Hejlik, II Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, speaks to Marines and sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s aviation combat element April 5, 2009, during a town hall meeting on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Hejlik took the opportunity to thank the Marines and sailors for their hard work and volunteering to serve their country.

“You Marines are smarter, quicker, make decisions, you take care of each other and you’re tough,” Hejlik said. “Our surgeons and corpsmen are the best I’ve ever seen. None of you have to be here. None of you were drafted. Each one of you raised your right hand and swore to defend the constitution of your own free will. What you are doing right now is absolutely critical and you are doing a great job.”

Expeditionary food service Marines serve up morale in southern Afghanistan

2009-04-01T23:21:00.000-07:00

Date written: March 26, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Expeditionary food service Marines are dedicated to improving the quality of food served to Marines in the southern region of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, rely on their cooks each day to provide them with well-balanced, wholesome meals to keep the infantrymen going strong.

Gunnery Sgt. Joseph M. Doby, 3/8’s mess chief, takes on that responsibility with pride. Doby, the honor graduate of Food Service Staff Noncommissioned Officer School last year at Fort Lee, Va., oversees daily food service operations and maintenance for the battalion. He is responsible for supplying the forward operating bases and combat outposts with quality food and food service equipment. When time permits, he operates a “chuck wagon,” a mobile feeding unit complete with a refrigerator and gas grills, to help raise the battalion’s morale.

“Gunnery Sgt. Doby is a good guy, and he does as much as he can for the Marines in Afghanistan,” said Cpl. Matthew J. Ford, a food service specialist.

Doby has eight cooks spread out over the 1,200-man battalion’s area of operations, which is about the size of the state of Vermont. They wake up well before sunrise to begin their day. They typically only cook breakfast and dinner because Marines are usually too busy during the midday to stop and grab a bite to eat. Instead, Meals, Ready-to-Eat are provided.

At FOB Delaram, the largest of 3/8’s FOBs, the cooks feed 400 to 600 people daily, which is no small task given the austere environment of Afghanistan.

“Here, you have to be willing to think outside of the box,” said Doby. “(Back home), you have running water and electricity. Here we have to do a lot of extra work to make things happen.”

Luckily for the cooks at Delaram, Doby was able to acquire a field food service system, or field kitchen. It came complete with utensils, washing and cooking equipment, sinks, refrigeration, a combination oven, prep-tables, two steam kettles, a fryer, two serving lines and electrical generators. The cooks also have both outdoor refrigerators and freezers. The kitchen can feed up to 850 people twice a day.

“You can do a lot of stuff in that kitchen,” said Doby.
The cooks at Delaram don’t go it alone though. They get plenty of volunteer assistance from the Marines at the FOB to help with daily preparations, cooking and serving the meals.

“I like when (infantrymen) come through the line after I’ve been closed for six hours and they’re starving, and I can pull a meal together to feed them,” said Lance Cpl. Dennis Escalante, a food service specialist who works in the Delaram kitchen.

The other locations where 3/8 Marines carry out their infantry missions aren’t as fortunate to have a field food service system, but Doby does all he can to ensure they receive quality food as well.

“When I can do something to improve their quality of life and give them the assets to cook a better ration and push those rations out to them, it is going to raise morale,” said Doby.

Doby continues to come up with ideas to improve food service at FOBs and COPs. He is currently working to put in new hand washing stations and gravity-fed sinks at the locations that don’t have them.

During a recent operation, Doby barbequed steaks, cooked pizzas and corn-on-the-cob, and provided sport drinks for the Marines. The Marines had been diligently working to conduct cordon and search missions, deliberate targeting of suspected insurgent cells and security patrols in southern Afghanistan. Doby’s “chuck wagon” provided refreshing hot-cooked meals for those Marines who had gone without them for many days.

“My favorite part of the job is seeing Marines happy,” said Doby. “It makes me happy to see Marines happy.”

Marine helo mechanics repair damaged Hornet in Afghanistan

2009-03-26T00:14:00.000-07:00

Date written: March 20, 2009
Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Despite having zero experience with fixed-wing aircraft, a team of helicopter mechanics diffused what could have been a potentially deadly situation involving an F/A-18E Super Hornet on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, March 18, 2009.

According to Staff Sgt. Jorge Minjares, the staff noncommissioned officer in charge of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361’s Flight Line Section, part of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s air combat element, the situation began when a Naval pilot with the USS Roosevelt (CVN-71) attempted to refuel his F-18 while airborne. During the process, the refueling aircraft’s fuel basket broke off from the fuel hose and remained fixed to the F-18’s refueling probe on the nose of the aircraft.

“It was just unsafe to fly,” said Sgt. Nicholas G. Koreneos, Flight Line Section noncommissioned officer in charge. “The fuel basket was locked on the fuel probe and he was running low on fuel. If the basket came off while he was in the air, it could [have] injured the pilot, damaged the bird’s airframe, canopy, engine; it was bad a situation.”

Shortly afterward, the pilot landed on Kandahar Air Field to refuel and repair his aircraft. But once on the ground, a new issue arose: there were no F-18 mechanics.

That’s when Minjares and his crew received a call from Lt. Col. Peter C. McConnell, the air combat element’s executive officer.

“He asked us if we knew how to remove a basket from an F-18,” Minjares said. “So I told him, ‘we’d give it a try.’”

Despite having zero experience working with fixed-wing aircraft, Minjares and his team put their mechanical expertise to the test.

“None of us had ever worked on this (type of aircraft), but we gave it our best shot,” said Cpl. Matthew D. Rodriguez, a CH-53E flight line mechanic. “We observed the design, spinning the basket, looking at it from all angles until we figured out how to take it apart.”

After 20 minutes their task was complete and the Hornet was ready to fly.

“The Marines did an outstanding job,” Minjares said. “They were excited and motivated to work on something new. They took control and checked the aircraft when they were done to make sure it was ready to fly. They were on point and did an awesome job.”

Thanks to Minjares’ crew, the F-18 took off the following day.

CLB-3 counters insurgency during patrol in southern Afghanistan

2009-03-26T00:08:00.000-07:00

March 19, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – After completing an important logistics mission, a group of Marines braved insurgent attacks while transiting through one of the most challenging regions of southern Afghanistan March 6, 2009.
The second platoon of Motor Transportation Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, overcame insurgent attacks while returning to Camp Barber from Forward Operating Base Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

While returning from a three-day combat logistics patrol, the platoon, assigned to CLB-3, the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, received multiple rounds of insurgent mortar fire and located two improvised explosive devices.

The combat logisticians’ mission was to deliver heavy equipment and more than 50,000 pounds of provisions to the Marines of Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of SPMAGTF-A.

Insurgents attempted to strike the combat logistics patrol with indirect fire but were unsuccessful and out of range. Marines with Co. L and a detachment from 2nd Force Reconnaissance Co., assigned to 3/8, supported the patrol by patrolling the surrounding areas in front of second platoon’s line of travel.

After a short halt to assess the points of impact and origin of the incoming fire, the patrol pushed forward but was quickly diverted by Sgt. Michael T. Thompson, the platoon sergeant and driver of the lead vehicle.

“We were coming up and out of a wadi (a dry river bed) when I saw a large rectangular patch of disturbed earth,” Thompson said. “I took the vehicle hard right to avoid hitting it and advised (employing) the sweep team.”

The patrol’s sweep team, a unit of Marines tasked to locate IEDs, quickly located a large object that was later identified as an IED with the help of the combat logistics patrol’s explosive ordnance disposal team. Upon dismantling the device, a secondary IED was found a short distance away.

“I was relieved that I was able to divert the vehicle in time to avoid a very bad day,” Thompson said.

According to Gunnery Sgt. Rudy Rodriguez, second platoon’s staff noncommissioned officer in charge, the mortar fire was directed toward the rear vehicle in what he believed to be an attempt to push the patrol forward into the IEDs, but the Marines knew what they were looking for and were highly trained.

Sgt. Jonathan H. Hilderman, a turret gunner with second platoon, said he could see people observing the convoy from the rooftops of nearby villages during the movement, but it was hard to decipher who was friend or foe. He explained that he didn’t feel like the patrol was in immediate danger, but the Marines are always ready to take an aggressive stance if they have to.

“I love it, and couldn’t have asked for any other job,” said Hilderman. “I feel like I can control my battlespace, and it makes me feel privileged to know it’s been invested upon me to have the responsibility to keep people safe and guard our assets. It’s what makes me tick.”

The patrol safely returned to Camp Barber with no casualties, marking another successful mission for second platoon and CLB-3.

“In my opinion we beat the enemy,” Rodriguez said. “We know what they bring to the table, and we know what we’re looking for.”

3/8 Marines make every day count in Afghanistan

2009-03-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Pfc. Kristofer D. Langlais (right) simulates a butt stroke with his rife against his partner Cpl. James D. Kettinger during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program sustainment training at Forward Operating Base Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, March 7, 2009.

The Marines assigned to first squad, first platoon, Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, utilize what free time they have within the protective walls of the FOB to sustain and educate themselves using the MCMAP.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police.

Langlais is a shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon gunner, and Kettinger is a squad automatic weapon gunner.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Using his rifle, Sgt. Daniel P. Hubbert demonstrates a butt stroke for Marines with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program sustainment training at Forward Operating Base Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, March 7, 2009.

The Marines of Co. L, 3/8, the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, utilize what free time they have within the protective walls of the FOB to sustain and educate themselves using the MCMAP.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police.

Hubbert is a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program instructor and squad leader for first squad, first platoon, Co. L, 3/8.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Richard D. Steinke (left) parries Pfc. Jeff W. Thompson’s rifle during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program sustainment training at Forward Operating Base Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, March 7, 2009.

The Marines assigned to first squad, first platoon, Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, utilize what free time they have within the protective walls of the FOB to sustain and educate themselves using the MCMAP.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police.

Steinke and Thompson are both fire team leaders assigned to first squad, first platoon, Co. L, 3/8.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sgt. Daniel P. Hubbert demonstrates a side choke followed by a takedown in an improvised dojo during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program sustainment training at Forward Operating Base Now Zad, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, March 7, 2009.

The Marines assigned to first squad, first platoon, Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, utilize what free time they have within the protective walls of the FOB to sustain and educate themselves using the MCMAP.

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police.

Hubbert is a squad leader for first squad, first platoon, Co. L, 3/8.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

3/8 Marines secure Golestan

2009-03-22T05:08:00.000-07:00

March 19, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

GOLESTAN, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – U.S. Marines are diligently working to create conditions for host nation security forces to take over while building the locals’ faith in their country’s government in Golestan, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Marines with second platoon, Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, mentor and train the Afghan National Police in Golestan, while providing security and working closely with government officials to achieve community-driven goals.

The platoon’s main focus is to provide security throughout Golestan’s valley. It conducts security patrols through the rugged, mountainous terrain, local bazaar and villages and speaks with the locals Afghans.

“Without you I cannot live and work in this area I am in,” said Qasim Khan, the district sub-governor, as translated by an interpreter. “One of the first things you created here was safety, and that is the biggest thing. I guarantee you if you weren’t here we wouldn’t be here either, and we want to continue working together to bring more security.”

Khan meets with the Marines often to discuss local issues, in the hopes of finding resolutions. He is grateful for the help his community receives from the Marines.

“We all understand you left your children, you left your wives and have left them to come to a faraway land for me, for our country,” Khan said. “We want security, and we want to live like you do. We pray everyday that you all make it home safely.”

Within Golestan’s valley, there are approximately 10 tribes scattered throughout 15 villages. Many of the villages the Marines patrol to have rarely seen Afghan or alliance forces.

“People further away think their government is weak and believe the (insurgency) is the only other way,” said Amir Mohammed, the district prosecutor, referring to how easily the people are persuaded to side with insurgents.
The job is very time consuming, but their efforts are not in vain. They are creating conditions in which contractors feel safe enough to work in the area to improve local facilities and infrastructure, according to Cpl. Benjamin G. Miles, a mortarman assigned to 3/8 who volunteered for the deployment here.

The Marines have few problems dealing with the locals and try to help them with a variety of difficulties they’re trying to overcome.

“We try to help them whenever we can as far as food and medical attention, and if they need stuff they can come and ask,” said Lance Cpl. William Hering, a mortarman with the platoon. “We’ll help them if we can. There hasn’t been an attack from surrounding towns because we are constantly patrolling and showing a presence. We’re letting the people see that we’re here, and we are doing stuff to help them out.”

A great deal of the unit’s time is also spent escorting convoys and securing landing zones to ensure much needed supplies are delivered for the locals.

“Convoys have been ambushed multiple times, and we’ve pushed back the enemy to the point that they retreated,” Hering said.
The Marines have engaged in fire fights, encountered improvised explosive devices, and had a rocket-propelled grenade attack on their forward operating base, but have suffered no casualties.

“I like it out here because we are really taking the fight to the enemy,” said Miles.

One of the strongest characteristics displayed by the platoon is its small unit leadership, which operates with little reserve when taking initiative for action.

“Here on this FOB, I’ve noticed that everybody wants to be the best,” said Sgt. Aaron M. Titus, second platoon’s first squad leader. “It’s almost a competition or a rivalry between the squads. Everybody wants to be good at their jobs. That’s a good deal when people care that much.”

While training for the deployment, 2nd Lt. Daniel M. Yurkovich, the platoon commander, stressed the importance of building close family ties while working in an isolated area.

“All my Marines out here are a pretty tight family, and they’re doing amazing things,” Yurkovich said. “I got guys that go out on patrol and come back, stand post, fill sand bags and other tasks all in one day. They’re all great young men, and it is the one thing that brings us together.”

Battery D Marines receive games from charitable organization

2009-03-22T04:55:00.000-07:00

CAMP BABER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – (From left to right) Sgts. Antolin Arguelles and Ruben Vasquez and Lance Cpl. T. Zurick enjoy a PlayStation 2 game and Game Boy Advance donated by Games For Heroes March 17, 2009, on Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The PlayStation and Game Boy were part of more than a dozen game systems donated to Marines with Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, by Games For Heroes, a non-profit organization devoted to collecting video devices, games, batteries and candy for deployed service members.

“This stuff is great,” Vasquez said. “It really helps us pass the time. It makes me feel appreciated that someone back home is thinking about us.”
Antolin and Zurick are High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher chiefs with Btry. D. Vasquez is a security chief with the battery.

Btry. D is deployed to southern Afghanistan to support Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan as a fire support asset. SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

CAMP BABER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sgt. Ruben Vasquez enjoys playing a Game Boy Advance March 17, 2009, on Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The Game Boy was just one of many game systems donated to Marines with Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, by Games For Heroes, a non-profit organization devoted to collecting video devices, games, batteries and candy for deployed service members.

“Thank you for helping keep America and the world safe,” said Brett Feller, the 12-year-old donator of more than a dozen games and game systems. “(This) is my way of showing appreciation and gratitude for risking your life every single day. I hope you get to enjoy these games and come home soon.”

Vasquez is a security chief with Btry. D, which is deployed to southern Afghanistan to support Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan as a fire support asset. SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)
CAMP BABER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – (From left to right) Lance Cpl. T. Zurick and Sgt. Antolin Arguelles enjoy a PlayStation 2 game donated by Games For Heroes March 17, 2009, on Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The PlayStation was just one of many game systems donated to Marines with Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, by Games For Heroes, a non-profit organization devoted to collecting video devices, games, batteries and candy for deployed service members.

“We are really grateful to have stuff like this,” Antolin said.

Antolin and Zurick are High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher chiefs with the battery.

Btry. D is deployed to southern Afghanistan to support Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan as a fire support asset. SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

CAMP BABER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sgt. Antolin Arguelles enjoys a PlayStation 2 game donated by Games For Heroes March 17, 2009, on Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The PlayStation was just one of many game systems donated to Marines with Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, by Games For Heroes, a non-profit organization devoted to collecting video devices, games, batteries and candy for deployed service members.

“We are really grateful to have stuff like this,” Antolin said.

Antolin is a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher chief with the battery.

Btry. D is deployed to southern Afghanistan to support Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan as a fire support asset. SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

3/8 in Afghanistan using 120 mm mortar system

2009-03-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

Date written: March 9, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), are employing the 120 mm mortar system to combat insurgents in southern Afghanistan.

The 81 mm mortar platoon of 3/8’s Weapons Company is formally trained to operate and has successfully implemented the 120 mm mortar system into its already potent weapons arsenal. Serving as the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, 3/8 is the only battalion in the Marine Corps currently using the 120 mm mortar system.

Officials at U.S. Marine Forces Central Command worked for months to acquire the 120 mm mortars for Marine operations in Afghanistan.

Capt. Mike Hoffman, Co. I commanding officer, said the 120 mm mortars give the Marines of 3/8 an increased range to engage effectively and eliminate their targets, and illuminate the battlefield during hours of darkness.

The 120 mm mortars have greatly contributed to establishing and maintaining the security in the battalion’s clearing of southern Afghanistan’s Route 515, which connects the important districts of Delaram to the east and Bakwa to the west, Hoffman explained.

“The 120 mm mortars have been instrumental to our success in Afghanistan,” Hoffman said. “They provide us certain advantages as opposed to the previous weapon systems. These advantages include increased firing range and illumination. They can also be manned by the same size crew as the smaller 81 mm mortar system.”

Hoffman said the 120 mm mortars also give local Afghan villagers a sense of security and faith in the SPMAGTF-A mission of conducting counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.

“The illumination of the battlefield lets the Afghan people know that we are watching the area, and insurgent forces will not be able to come into their village at night,” said Hoffman.

Sgt. Brian Morris, a section leader with Weapons Co., 81 mm Mortar Platoon, said illumination is a vital part of the mortarmen’s mission.

“We receive a lot of illumination missions because illuminating the battlefield not only helps our Marines who are patrolling at night, but it also deters insurgents and criminals,” he said. “This denies the enemy freedom of movement in the region because they know that we are watching them.”

Insurgents use the hours of darkness to plant improvised explosive devices and stage attacks against alliance forces. Insurgents use these tactics with no regard for the well-being of the civilian population.

Morris said the transition from the 81 mm mortars to the 120 mm mortars was fairly simple due to the systems’ similarities.

Morris added that although the 120 mm mortar system is not man-portable due to its 318-pound weight, it has a maximum effective range of more than seven kilometers, which allows the Marines to distribute forces in a larger area of operations while still maintaining security.

“We protect our fellow Marines as they advance more on the battlefield and fight the insurgency,” he said.

Hoffman said the mortarmen are professional and extremely proficient.

“We have an incredible group of Marines here,” he said. “They are very efficient and knowledgeable in what they do. They have adapted to the 120 mm mortars and they have adapted extremely well.”

CLB-3’s career planner beats the clock in Afghanistan

2009-03-19T08:38:00.000-07:00

Date written: Feb. 13, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The term “man hunt” would only come close to describing the dedication Combat Logistics Battalion 3 put forth recently to ensure Sgt. Patrick D. Allan had the opportunity to re-enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Currently forward deployed to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan as an individual augment with Support Company, CLB-3, Allan, a Camp Pendleton, Calif.-based tank crewman, got a shocking wake-up call the morning of Jan. 8, 2009.

When a loud banging noise from outside the 22-year-old sergeant’s M88 tank retriever woke him, he never would have thought it would be for his re-enlistment ceremony, which was held at Combat Outpost Barrow in Farah Province.

Not more than a week earlier, Allan almost lost his re-enlistment opportunity after the deadline to “re-up” for the last remaining boat space, or opening, in his occupational field had expired while Allan was out in the field supporting an operation. Because of the circumstances, Allan’s chain of command was able to go to bat for him, receiving an extension for Allan’s re-enlistment authority from the Marine Manpower Enlisted Assignments Branch at Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps in Washington.

“The first thing we did was ask Gunnery Sergeant Michael Peck, the career retention specialist for CLB-3, himself located at CLB-3’s home base in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, to contact Headquarters Marine Corps and ask for more time,” said Sgt. Maj. Danny D. Duvall, CLB-3’s sergeant major. “It was granted and authorized to be modified to no later than Jan. 8.”

The extension of the re-enlistment deadline came as a relief, but the battalion had one other small issue – Allan was not at the battalion headquarters’ present location of Camp Barber in Helmand Province. Instead, he was on a combat logistics patrol supporting Operation Gateway III, which had the battalion widely dispersed across Farah Province to the west. To complicate matters, CLB-3’s headquarters had a difficult time contacting Allan due to the nature of the fast-moving operation.

While CLB-3 attempted to get a message to the sergeant, Peck, from his office in Hawaii, was hard at work e-mailing Duvall line-by-line directions on how to fill out the paperwork for the $52,000 bonus Allan would eventually receive.

Duvall used time zones to his advantage and e-mailed the 1st Marine Division sergeant major on the West Coast at Camp Pendleton after the work day had ended on the East Coast.

“I wanted to provide a chain to ensure everything would get done before Allan’s re-enlistment authority expired,” he said.
Duvall explained that he contacted the division sergeant major for “extra fire support” and to let him know that one of his Marines was here trying to re-enlist and that it would be difficult because Allan was out supporting an operation.

Working diligently throughout the night, CLB-3’s combat operations center exchanged faxes with three offices in the U.S. and established communications with the combat logistics patrol through the battalion’s combat operations center around 11 p.m., Jan. 7 to locate Allan.

During the night, Marines closest to Allan’s location were informed of the situation but said they wouldn’t be able to reach Allan until later the next morning on Jan. 8.

The battalion’s COC relayed messages to an onboard vehicle communications system to 2nd Lt. Juliann C. Naughton, commander of 2nd Platoon, Motor Transportation Co., CLB-3, stressing the importance of the situation and later even providing the text of the oath of enlistment in order for Naughton to re-enlist Allan.

Naughton immediately took action and found Allan, who was sleeping in his M88 tank retriever.

“We give Marines what they deserve,” Naughton said.

Naughton also said of being out on the patrol for two weeks that there was no better place to have a ceremony than in a combat zone.
Later that morning, Allan stood in front of Naughton with his right hand raised as he echoed the oath of enlistment, while the Marines at Kaneohe Bay, Camp Pendleton, and Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps waited for confirmation of Allan’s re-enlistment. Around 7:30 a.m., the COC received a relieving message from Naughton that served as the source document confirming Allan’s re-enlistment.

“It was like the NASA team celebrating (in the COC),” Duvall said. “We made it, and at that point it was a relay race on how fast we could get information out.”

Immediately upon receiving confirmation, the sergeant major promptly redirected back to e-mails, thanking everyone for their support and effort for the successful re-enlistment.

“I wasn’t aware that I would be re-enlisting that morning, and I was excited,” Allan said. “I was aware of the commitment and dedication on CLB-3’s part that made this re-enlistment happen for me, and I’m grateful that they went the extra mile to help me out.”
Allan said he was unaware that he held the last remaining boat space for his occupational field, and he was extremely pleased with the tax-free bonus he received by re-enlisting.

Duvall said he was relieved to see the re-enlistment unfold successfully and the leaders of the combat logistics patrol maintain the integrity of the re-enlistment process.

“It’s (astounding) how five locations in the world can work together throughout the night to get a Marine sworn in during a combat operation,” Duvall said.

According to Allan’s commanding officer, Lt. Col. Michael Jernigan, CLB-3’s efforts throughout were reflected in its motto “`O Ka Hana, ‘A’ole Ka ‘Olelo, the Hawaiian term meaning “actions, not words.”

Deployed father, son reunite in Afghanistan

2009-03-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sgt. Lee Cronin and his father, Chet Cronin, share a laugh after being reunited March 8, 2009, at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Chet Cronin, a field service representative with II Marine Expeditionary Force at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, had the opportunity to visit his deployed son in southern Afghanistan while troubleshooting communications equipment here.

Sgt. Cronin, a watch chief with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, said seeing his father really boosted his morale. Sgt. Cronin deployed to Afghanistan four months ago. His father, Chet, has been deployed to Iraq for the past two years, and the two hadn’t seen each other in more than a year.

CLB-3 is the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, whose mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)
CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sgt. Lee Cronin and his father, Chet Cronin, reunite March 8, 2009, at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Chet Cronin, a field service representative with II Marine Expeditionary Force at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, had the opportunity to visit his deployed son in southern Afghanistan while troubleshooting communications equipment here.

Sgt. Cronin, a watch chief with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, said seeing his father really boosted his morale. Sgt. Cronin deployed to Afghanistan four months ago. His father, Chet, has been deployed to Iraq for the past two years, and the two hadn’t seen each other in more than a year.

CLB-3 is the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, whose mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)

ANP, 3/8 conduct Operation Pathfinder in southern Afghanistan

2009-03-19T07:34:00.000-07:00

Date written: March 5, 2009
Story by: Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The Afghan National Police joined forces with the U.S. Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), to execute Operation Pathfinder Jan. 28 through March 7, 2009, in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

As the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, 3/8 worked with the ANP to conduct the operation, while training and mentoring them.

The ANP and 3/8’s Company I were the main effort in the operation, which consisted of several cordon and search missions, deliberate targeting of suspected insurgent cells, and security patrols in the region along southern Afghanistan’s Route 515. Co. I was supported by Weapons Co. and Co. K.

The operation also gave the Marines the opportunity to partner with the ANP, which gave alliance forces a greater presence in the difficult region of southern Afghanistan. The successful completion of Operation Pathfinder prepared the battlespace for future transfer to the ANP.

“We are here to provide security for the Afghan people,” said Capt. Mike Hoffman, Co. I commanding officer. “With the ANP leading us through the villages and interacting with the villagers, it helps the local Afghans build faith not only in us, but in their own security forces.

“The ANP led every step of the way during the operation; we were there to support their efforts,” he said.

Operation Pathfinder was designed to enhance all aspects of SPMAGTF-A’s overall mission of conducting counterinsurgency, with a focus on training and mentoring the ANP. The operation capitalized on the recent success of Operation Gateway III, which involved the clearing of Route 515 and the construction of three combat outposts along the important east-west route that connects the district centers of Delaram and Bakwa.

During the course of Operation Pathfinder, the ANP and Marines uncovered numerous weapon caches, which included more than 150 pounds of explosive material, rocket-propelled grenades and small arms. The ANP and Marines also detained 11 suspected insurgents.

Hoffman said the increased security along the road provides a safer environment for nearby villages and denies insurgent forces freedom of movement in the region.

The ANP and U.S. Marines also had the support of local villages that enjoy the increased security and counterinsurgency effort in the region.
“We had full support of the village elders, which is key to our success here,” Hoffman said. “We were also able to hold a town hall meeting with the local elders, and we had over 60 people in attendance.”

Cpl. Zach Switzer, a squad leader with Co. I, said the operation gave his Marines the chance to get out and interact with the local populace, while gaining valuable intelligence.

“We were afforded the opportunity to get out amongst the villagers and see how they react to our presence,” Switzer said. “We were also able to work hand-in-hand with the ANP in the villages, which helped us to further train and mentor them.”

During Operation Pathfinder, 3/8 employed for the first time in Afghanistan an all-female team of Marines trained to interact with the female Afghan population.

“The operation showed the Afghan villagers who reside along Route 515 that the Marines are here to help,” Hoffman said. “It also sent a message to the insurgents that we know what they are doing, and we are going to stop them.”

All-female Marine team conducts first mission in southern Afghanistan

2009-03-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

Date written: March 5, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, now have a special group of individuals to help them complete their mission in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The Marines employ a select group of all-female Marines from within SPMAGTF-A who are trained to interact with the Afghan female population – a task considered culturally unacceptable for their male Marine brethren operating in the Islamic republic.
A similar program has been used in combat operations in Iraq, but this is the first time Marine forces in Afghanistan have employed the concept.

Capt. Mike Hoffman, commanding officer of 3/8’s Company I, said the all-female team is an important asset for his Marines.
“(The team) provides us access to half of the population that we normally do not have access to,” Hoffman said. “They did extremely well interacting with the female villagers.”

Second Lt. Johanna Shaffer, the team leader, said their first mission, a cordon and search in support of Operation Pathfinder, was very successful.

“We were accepted by both the men and women villagers and were able to obtain valuable information about the way they lived and what they thought about the Marine Corps operating in the area,” Shaffer said.

During their first mission, the female Marines deliberately donned brightly colored head and neck scarves as a sign of cultural respect to the Afghan women.

“The scarves showed the Afghan women that we were women too, and we respect their culture,” said Shaffer. “They automatically felt more comfortable with us. They showed us their homes, and even though they didn’t have much they were still very generous to us. They accepted us as sisters, and we’re glad that we were here to help them.”

Although Afghan women tend to be more reserved than Afghan men, they still have a large influence on their children, Shaffer said, so engaging with them is important.

“If the women know we are here to help them, they will likely pass that on to their children,” she said. “If the children have a positive perspective of alliance forces, they will be less likely to join insurgent groups or participate in insurgent activities.”

Hoffman said the female Marines were also accepted by the village men.

“They were not opposed by the villagers,” Hoffman said. “They had no problem allowing (the team) the chance to interact with their women.”

According to Shaffer, the concept employed by her team varies greatly from the program in Iraq because of differences in Afghan culture.

“The cultural background here is completely different than that of Iraq,” Shaffer said. “Women here are more timid than in Iraq. There is less of a chance that an Afghan women would try to harm us because they understand that we are here to help them.

“We also do not know much about the daily life of Afghan women,” she said. This provides us not only the opportunity to learn about the women, but also to build and maintain faith and trust of the Afghan women.”

The mission of SPMAGTF-A is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police. Operation Pathfinder was a deliberate counterinsurgency engagement conducted in coordination with Afghan National Security Forces along Route 515 in southern Afghanistan.

Engineers pack up after seven-month Afghanistan deployment

2009-03-19T06:41:00.000-07:00

Date written: March 7, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – A detachment of Marines from 7th Engineer Support Battalion has constructed success in Afghanistan for the past seven months and is scheduled to depart from Camp Barber, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, in March 2009.

The Camp Pendleton, Calif.-based detachment arrived in Afghanistan Aug. 24, 2008, as a general engineering support attachment to Task Force 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment. Task Force 2/7 was replaced by 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, in November 2008.

Shortly after the November 2008 arrival of Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of SPMAGTF-A, the detachment merged with the Engineering Platoon of CLB-3’s Support Company.

“We thought we would leave with 2/7, but we later found out that we’d be here for a full 210 days,” said Gunnery Sgt. Richard J. Jennings, a staff noncommissioned officer from the 7th ESB detachment currently serving as the operations chief for Engineering Plt.

Jennings said until CLB-3 arrived, the detachment was the only Marine engineering support group in Afghanistan.

The detachment set out to build, and building is what they did. The small unit accomplished any challenge that arose, ranging from constructing buildings and bunkers to projects as large as whole forward operating bases.

“I’m happy with what we could do using the few resources in the beginning, but once we got more Marines, the building went faster,” said Sgt. Tommy B. Simonds, a squad leader with Engineering Plt.

Simonds said with the support from the Marines, what they’ve accomplished was impressive and everyone quickly gained the experience needed to achieve success.

“I’m happy when I go to (FOB) Now Zad because it’s a 180-degree change from when I first saw it,” Simonds said.

According to Staff Sgt. David A. Proitte, the utilities chief for Engineering Plt., when the detachment first arrived some of the existing FOBs were using tents or suspended camouflage netting as housing and work spaces.

“We gave the Marines wood structures, electricity, plumbing and a little bit of comfort,” Proitte said. “We basically tore down (FOB) Now Zad and rebuilt it. Once we got out there, they loved us.”

Priotte said the larger builds occurred at FOBs Now Zad and Golestan, where they worked to improve what was already there and to provide better protection for the Marines. He said his Marines had to be creative with the limited resources, and at one point had to scrounge for material.

Regardless, the unit’s pace did not slow and could only be described by Priotte as “fast and furious.”

The detachment also took part in Operation Gateway III, a deliberate plan to clear southern Afghanistan’s Route 515 of any existing improvised explosive devices and insurgent threats and place combat outposts at strategic locations along the important east-west route.

“(Route) 515 was a big piece, and we finished it in half the time that was allotted,” said Cpl. Tyler A. Blim. “It was a good time, and as a group we’ve accomplished a (large) part of the deployment. There’s no other group here providing that kind of engineering currently.”

While in Afghanistan, the detachment also had the opportunity to work with other forces within the alliance.

“There’s a whole process of stuff that we’ve been enlightened to while working with foreign military,” said Jennings. “It was a great experience to have an international presence, as well as getting to work with British forces on their base.”

Jennings said when he saw the opportunity to come to Afghanistan, he took it, and that even though there was no stable infrastructure here and supplies were hard to get, things got better every day. He said the biggest thanks he’s received while in Afghanistan was after installing shower units at FOB Now Zad and providing the Marines there with the opportunity to take a hot shower.

“I think we’ve made a difference within the area of operations, and we’ve done good work,” Jennings said. “The Marines are really tight considering they’re never worked together as a team. I think as far as the Marines go it’s a small detachment and we’ve accomplished a lot, but we’re ready to go home.”

Civil affairs team facilitates Afghan governance, development

2009-03-19T06:06:00.000-07:00

Date written: March 1, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

DELARAM, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Friend or foe? This is sure to be a question many Afghan people think of as they witness U.S. forces operating in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. One group of U.S. Marines helps ensure U.S. forces and Afghan security forces aren’t seen as an enemy of the people but as allies, defending Afghanistan and its way of life.

Reserve Marines with the Camp Pendleton, Calif.-based 3rd Civil Affairs Group, operating in support of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, work closely with the people of southern Afghanistan. Their goal is to build working relationships that ultimately lead to successful counterinsurgency operations, a stronger economy and a more capable government.

Part of a small civil affairs group, the smaller civil affairs team operates with situational awareness and respect for Afghan cultural standards, said Capt. Anthony R. Ward, a team leader with 3rd CAG.

The team’s primary job is to facilitate and conduct key leader engagements with Afghan government officials, village elders and prominent community leaders. As the team works with these Afghan leaders, they learn more about their culture, systems of commerce and traditional ways. This knowledge is critical in facilitating governance.

Ward’s team is comparatively small given the size of the area of operations in which it works. He credits the success of his team to the strong, mature and independent noncommissioned officers who serve with him.

“We are trying to build relationships with the people, winning hearts and minds, so that they will actually be on our side,” said Sgt. Jesus O. Luna, a civil affairs NCO with the team. “We already have some villages trying to side with us to keep anti-alliance forces out.”

A recent example of a civil affairs operation occurred in the community of Delaram, Farah Province, one of many areas in which Ward’s civil affairs team operates. In Delaram, his team has provided loads of material assistance items, such as food and clothing, to the district sub-governor to distribute to the Afghan people there. The goal is simple – promote local government and encourage Afghans to address their government officials with problems and solutions.

A previous civil affairs team operating in Delaram dug wells in the city, built a wall around the boys’ school and conducted road repair projects in the area. Ward’s team follows up on those projects and a few of their own that are underway. City projects like these are requested by the Afghans.

Ward’s civil affairs team traveled into the city of Delaram Feb. 19 to check on the progress of projects it’s facilitating. In support of the city, Ward’s team has arranged a renovation of the city mosque and the digging of a new water well. His team is also overseeing the cleanup of a bazaar and landscaping by pouring new gravel throughout the bazaar’s grounds.

“(Delaram) is in a better state than when we first started,” said Cpl. Steven W. Mootz, a civil affairs NCO with the team.

The renovation of the mosque was the first project the Delaram district sub-governor insisted on having completed in Delaram. The completion of the mosque will not only please the locals but help draw more people to the area.

“Doing things like this shows good faith toward the city and Afghanistan with respect to their religious culture,” Mootz said. “The bazaar is the life blood of the city. That is what we have to focus on and try to improve with our influence.”

The majority of the employment opportunities within the bazaar consist of shopkeepers and laborers.

“We talked to the people of the area about what they thought of the projects and they all seemed to be happy,” said Mootz. “The sub-governor is pleased, the mayor is pleased and we are all working together on this.”

The gravel for the bazaar was a major request of the shopkeepers. The roads were filled with potholes and the uneven ground created huge puddles, making it difficult for pedestrians and local traffic.

“It caused a lot of unsanitary conditions and trucks to get stuck,” said Mootz. “It was an all-around bad situation. We were able to flatten it out with some gravel to eliminate puddles and make it a little easier to drive through.”

Whenever possible, the civil affairs team hires local Afghan contractors for such projects and asks that any additional laborers also be hired from within the city to stimulate the local economy.

“A lot of people in Delaram are unemployed,” said Mootz. “A lot of people come here because it is a safer area, but there are few jobs to support them. One of our efforts is to hire local people, so they can get money back to their families.”

The team also focuses on surrounding villages.

“(Villagers) are telling us that they like us and that they know we are here to help them,” Luna said.

Luna explained the importance of the “fence-sitter theory,” which he believes is key to the success of U.S. forces. He said, in theory, approximately 10 percent of the population believes in NATO’s International Security Assistance Forces and another 10 percent dislike ISAF. The remaining 80 percent are sitting on the fence – those who can be swayed to either side.

“It’s those fence-sitters we want scooted more to our side,” said Luna. “Not exactly on our side but (neutral) to the point they’re not helping the bad guys out.”

The team makes visits to villages with the Afghan National Police and Afghan National Army leading the way. Often, they load ANA trucks with material assistance supplies for the ANA soldiers to hand out to the villagers.

“We have lots of (capabilities),” said Luna. “They can put us anywhere, and we can do many different things. We get to go with the infantry, and we get to be everyone’s friend. Everybody waves, smiles and gives us a thumbs up,” said Luna. “It gives you a really good feeling, and we know that we are doing our job.”

Post Exchange opens on Camp Barber

2009-03-08T07:37:00.000-07:00

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lt. Col. Michael Jernigan and Joe Escobar cut the ribbon as Gunnery Sgt. Brian Scarborough observes during the grand opening of the new Army and Air Force Exchange Service base exchange March 5, 2009, at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
Jernigan is the commanding officer of Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. Escobar is the store manager, and Scarborough is the base exchange manager.
The base exchange offers U.S. service members a host of necessities and comfort items that were not previously available in southern Afghanistan’s remote bases.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Sgt. Benjamin Chesterbristow glances over potential purchases during the grand opening of the new Army and Air Force Exchange Service base exchange March 5, 2009, at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
Chesterbristow is a bulk fuel specialist with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
The base exchange offers U.S. service members a host of necessities and comfort items that were not previously available in southern Afghanistan’s remote bases.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton)

ANP, Marines execute cordon and search in southern Afghanistan

2009-03-08T07:32:00.000-07:00

Date written: March 5, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Members of the Afghan National Police and U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), successfully completed their first major mission in support of Operation Pathfinder Feb. 9, 2009, in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

With the ANP in the lead, the two forces conducted a cordon and search of a high-interest village along southern Afghanistan’s Route 515.

Elements of 3/8’s Company I and Weapons Co. executed the cordon and search after receiving intelligence that the village may be harboring weapon caches and insurgent supporters. During the course of the mission the Marines found numerous weapon caches containing more than 150 pounds of explosive material, rocket-propelled grenades and improvised explosive device-making materials. Co. I also found other evidence that provided names and confirmed the identity of several individuals with suspected ties to insurgent cells in the area. The ANP and Marines executed the mission professionally and efficiently.

The Marines of 3/8 dispatched the Biometric Automated Toolset outside of a forward-operating base for the first time since they deployed to the country. The BATS system uses fingerprints, portraits, background information and iris scans to identify individuals and log them into an international database, which can be accessed by any federal agency.

“The BATS system is a way for us to identify the Afghans in a Department of Defense-wide database,” said Capt. Mike Hoffman, Co. I commanding officer. “This information helps us to identify the criminals and insurgents without a problem. If we were to find fingerprints on a weapons cache or an IED, we could pinpoint exactly who it was.”

Sgt. Nick Bender, the Company-Level Intelligence Cell chief, said the system will also help Marine units in the future.

“With the system, the Marines in the future will be able to identify people of interest without a problem,” Bender said. “They will be able to not only identify these individuals, but also access their family information and where they live.”

The cordon and search mission, which began before dawn, involved the blocking of the roads leading to and from the village, and the hasty construction of a processing center to enter all of the villagers into the BATS system.

As the sun began to rise, the ANP and Marines got to work. They started by escorting the Afghan villagers to the processing center to be entered into the BATS system. After the villagers were cleared, Co. I, with the ANP leading the way, began searching every building in the village.

The mission gave the Marines a chance to work in combat operations with the ANP. As the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, 3/8 works hand-in-hand with the ANP to conduct counterinsurgency operations while training and mentoring them. By conducting partnered operations with the ANP, SPMAGTF-A and NATO’s International Security Assistance Force provide the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan with a professional police force able to keep the Afghan people safe.

“Although it was long and tedious work, we knew it not only had to be done, but done thoroughly,” said Cpl. Zach Switzer, an assault section leader with Co. I. “With the ANP leading the way and the village elders supporting the mission, things ran very smoothly and we were able to uncover numerous weapons and explosives.”

Insurgents use these weapons to attack alliance forces that support the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan with no regard for the lives of Afghan civilians.

The cordon and search also marked the use of Team Lioness for the first time in Afghanistan. Based on a concept used successfully in Iraq, Team Lioness is a group of female Marines trained to engage the female population.

“Team Lioness is a huge asset and definitely contributed to the successful completion of our mission,” Switzer stated. “Now the women know that we are here to help them.”

Hoffman said overall the mission was extremely successful, and it helped his Marines build a positive relationship with the local Afghan population.

“We are here for the Afghan people,” he said. “It is our mission to build and maintain the faith of the people we are here to serve.”

CLB-3 Marines destroy unserviceable ammunition

2009-03-02T01:54:00.001-08:00

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. James E. Laflin cuts through a strand of time-fuse during a training evolution at a demolition range on Camp Bastion, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 21, 2009.

Ammunition technicians with Headquarters Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, and Okinawa-based explosive ordnance disposal technicians with 3rd EOD Platoon, assigned to CLB-3, worked together to dispose of unserviceable ammunition and ordnance.

CLB-3 is the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, whose mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.

Laflin is an ammunition technician assigned to Headquarters Co., CLB-3.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines use a multifunctional crimping tool to cut through a strand of time-fuse during a training exercise at a demolition range on Camp Bastion, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 21, 2009.

Ammunition technicians with Headquarters Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, and Okinawa-based explosive ordnance disposal technicians with 3rd EOD Platoon, assigned to CLB-3, worked together to dispose of unserviceable ammunition and ordnance.
CLB-3 is the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, whose mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The detonation of high-explosive charges sends smoke and flames soaring more than 50 feet high during a training exercise at a demolition range on Camp Bastion, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 21, 2009.

Ammunition technicians with Headquarters Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, and Okinawa-based explosive ordnance disposal technicians with 3rd EOD Platoon, assigned to CLB-3, worked together to dispose of unserviceable ammunition and ordnance.

CLB-3 is the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, whose mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

Afghan National Policemen graduate from intensive training program

2009-03-02T01:40:00.000-08:00

Date written: Feb. 26, 2009
Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

SHOUZ, Herat Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Their country has been torn by war for decades. Many remember years of lawlessness and Taliban control. But despite the harsh conditions they have endured, they have chosen to serve and protect their people.

More than 150 Afghan National Policemen graduated from Shouz Regional Training Center, Herat Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 26, 2009.

For the past eight weeks, the new policemen have endured some of the most challenging training required to patrol their assigned posts, such as weapons handling with AK-47 assault rifles, marksmanship, advanced first aid and non-lethal weapon techniques with an emphasis on human rights.

But the training they endured is a small testament to their dedication to Afghanistan and its people.

“These guys are recruited right off the street,” said Gunnery Sgt. Thomas D. West, the Afghan National Security Force coordinator for 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. “A lot of these guys have been operating as police officers for a while now, but they don’t get paid until they go through this course.”

Despite receiving no monetary compensation, more than two dozen of the graduates from the districts of Delaram, Bakwa and Golestan began their training a week later than their peers to ensure their districts were protected.

“Due to voter registration, the governor of Farah Province asked them to stay behind and provide security,” said Sgt. Nicholas Fagerquist, the senior Marine ANP mentor for the class.

“They stayed behind and started a week later than the other graduates, but they’re graduating with their peers because they worked late hours, squeezed some more training in, and because of the phenomenal job they did as students,” Fagerquist said. “My only hope is that they go back home, retain what they’ve learned and teach it those who haven’t been through the course.”

Many of his students shared that sentiment.

“I am very happy to have learned from (the) Marines,” said Policeman Abdulgaber Farhay, a course graduate. “I will (go) back to my home and use what I learned to help my country.”

Despite the dangers they will inevitably face, their courage and dedication to creating a peaceful Afghanistan has not wavered. They each understand the long and difficult road ahead of them and are willing to sacrifice everything for it.

“I am proud to be one of the people helping my country,” Farhay said. “I will do my duty.”

SPMAGTF-A’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the ANP. Assisting the new policemen helps them grow, gain effectiveness and succeed against the insurgency.

Special, purpose, marine, air, ground, task, force, Afghanistan, MAGTF, global, war terror, grunts, infantry, combat, logistics, battalion, 3/8, regim

2009-02-28T23:41:00.000-08:00

Date written: Feb. 18, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The first platoon of Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, test-fired its first rocket in-country from a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 15, 2009.

The El Paso, Texas-based Marine Corps Reserve battery conducted a full-scale fire mission scenario, proving it’s fully capable of firing and hitting its target within minutes and with deadly accuracy.

“I thought it went extremely well, and it was good to see the Marines receive the fruits of their labor,” said Maj. Frankie P. Delgado, the battery commander. “They did great and were on target.”
Within minutes, the battery was able to reach its firing point, set its rocket pod, receive coordinates, and deliver a global positioning system-aided rocket into a predetermined grid.

The battery’s mission is to support Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan as a fire support asset.
According to Delgado, the three-man crewed weapons system cradles six 200-pound rockets capable of destroying targets more than 70 kilometers away, striking with an accuracy up to an impressive eight meters.

Delgado said the battery is here to hit “higher value” targets, and the system can be used as an alternative to air strikes.
“We’re a great asset when you say you want to engage a particular target and not put innocent people in danger,” Delgado said. “We’re ready to take the fight to the enemy.”

Delgado said he sees the unit being a critical asset to SPMAGTF-A and in comparison to most air strikes, the enemy will never see the system’s rocket until it’s too late.

Although the Army has previously used the HIMARS in Afghanistan, the battery’s recent test-fire marked the first time the Marine Corps fired a HIMARS in Afghanistan, creating a page in the history books for the 150-Marine battery.

“We’ve been training for a long time, and we all wanted to do our job,” said Cpl. Luis A. Cardenas, a launcher chief with first platoon.
The Marine Corps designated 2/14 as a HIMARS unit in 2006, transitioning what was formerly an artillery-oriented battery from its howitzer cannons to the more advanced HIMARS.

“There’s no adjusting,” Delgado said. “You give us a grid, we’re going to hit that grid.”

The battery conducted three years of training in order to prepare for its receipt and use of the HIMARS and was called to active duty in October 2008. In November, the battery received notice to shift its focus toward Afghanistan.

“The weapons systems are 180 degrees apart from each other,” Delgado said, comparing the HIMARS to traditional howitzers. “It’s a new weapons system with GPS tracking. It’s like a scalpel versus a butcher knife.”

Delgado said just one of the HIMARS’ six rocket tubes can inflict the same amount of battle damage as one artillery cannon, but HIMARS has greater accuracy, mobility and less chance of being outside its target area.

Delgado also said some of the advantages of the systems are that they are transportable via C-130 cargo transport aircraft, lightweight and can get onto a road, drive to a point, fire and drive back before being detected.

“It’s (exciting) and it feels good,” Akin said. “For a reserve unit, I think it’s a good thing for the HIMARS to be in Afghanistan. Our Marines are always motivated and there’s a lot of pride.”

Akin said the battery has been at the camp for more than three weeks and was excited because they got to fire the system for the first time during the deployment.

“This is the tightest and most professional battery I’ve been with thus far, and it couldn’t have happened to a better group of guys,” Delgado said. “We are the fire support for SPMAGTF-A.”

Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, with a focus on training and mentoring the Afghan National Police.

Marines mentor, forge close ties with Afghan National Police

2009-02-14T06:10:00.000-08:00

Date written: Feb. 11, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

SHOUZ, Herat Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Five U.S. Marine noncommissioned officers are making a difference in the lives of Afghans through their personal interaction with Afghan National Police recruits at the Shouz Police Training Center in Herat Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The select group of Marines from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, have been working closely with the ANP and its recruits, assisting in mentoring and instructing since mid-January. Their goal is simple: help the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan develop a sustainable police force.

“I actually feel like we are making a difference out here,” said Sgt. Nicholas Fagerquist, the senior NCO among the five Marines. “We’re not even finished yet and (the policemen) have great military discipline, they’re eager to learn, they’re motivated, they’re being proactive opposed to being reactive, and that’s something you don’t usually see.”

American law enforcement instructors lead the eight-week program at Shouz, while empowering Afghan police instructors to train the Afghan police recruits. Stepping in to lead by example, the Marines offer their help to the students and instructors assisting them in meeting the required training objectives. The cadre of Marines invoke leadership qualities among the students by doing what Marines do best: teaching the ANP recruits how to step up and take a leadership role among their peers.

“We make them realize that (being a policeman) is more than a (paycheck), it’s a big responsibility,” said Cpl. Thomas A. Moss.

The American law enforcement instructors at Shouz utilize the Marines’ skills for teaching military tactics, techniques and procedures.

Together, they’re trying to develop a police force that can both apprehend criminals and suppress insurgent attacks.

“It’s not like in the United States where a cop responds to a call,” Moss said. “They have to deal with drug smugglers more often, and they have to deal with people attacking their compound.”

The cadre of Marines has firsthand knowledge of the situations the ANP are faced with here and recognizes which training objectives need to be emphasized based on their own experience patrolling with the ANP in different districts. Because of this, the Marines add valuable insight to the American law enforcement instructors’ approach to training the ANP.

The Marines’ efforts go well beyond the classroom. The Marines have developed close working relationships with the ANP instructors and recruits at the training center through the help of interpreters. Through conversation, they have found common ground between them and have built strong bonds.

“I feel we have built a really good bridge with the working relationships between us and the (Afghans),” said Fagerquist. “I’ve never had any problem with the Afghan locals, and now I enjoy working with them even more.”

Moss said, when the Marines first met the recruits they were shunned by them and the recruits didn’t want to speak to them, but the tables have turned. The Afghans now have a greater understanding of what the Marines’ role is within their country and now not only trust them but genuinely like them as well.

“They’re no longer students, they’re coworkers,” said Fagerquist.

Once training is complete the Marines plan to return to the Afghan provinces with the newly trained police.

“It’s going to show the (communities) that Marines are here, we do care, and we are here to help them and enable them to be a better country,” said Moss. “We’re not here to be an occupying force. We are here to help them out to the best capacity that we can.”

“We know that most of these guys really do care about their province and they’re not just here to make money,” said Moss. “They actually want to make their community better.”

The Marines continue to train and mentor the ANP in order to provide the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan with an effective, sustainable and professional police force. As the ANP become capable of sustaining security and force development, Marines will turn more responsibilities over to them.

“I know they’re going to help us out more and vice versa,” said Fagerquist. “They’re not just looking the role, they’re being the role. I know it’s going to increase the tempo of the missions of really hammering down on the bad guys.”

Marine Forces Central general visits Marines in Afghanistan

2009-02-08T20:34:00.000-08:00

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lt. Gen. Samuel Helland (left) promotes Cpl. Jonathan D. Radu (right), a squad leader with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), to the rank of sergeant on Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 6, 2009. Helland, the commander of U.S. Marine Forces Central Command, visited Marines of 3/8 and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, to inform them of current Marine Corps issues. SPMAGTF-A stands with the Afghan people as a strategic partner in building an effective and sustainable security force to defend their nation.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)
CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lt. Gen. Samuel Helland speaks with Marines during a visit to Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 6, 2009. Helland, the commander of U.S. Marine Forces Central Command, visited the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, to discuss morale and welfare initiatives and make sure the Marines are supplied properly for combat effectiveness. SPMAGTF-A and NATO’s International Security Assistance Force support the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in its efforts to provide security and services to the Afghan people.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)
CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lt. Gen. Samuel Helland answers questions from Marines at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 6, 2009. Helland, the commander of U.S. Marine Forces Central Command, visited the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, as part of his battlefield tour of southern Afghanistan. SPMAGTF-A is here to assist the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in finding Afghan solutions to Afghan issues.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)
CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lt. Gen. Samuel Helland discusses Marine Corps issues with Marines at Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 6, 2009. Helland, the commander of U.S. Marine Forces Central Command, visited the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, to get a better understanding of how the Marines are living and operating. SPMAGTF-A assists the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in providing aid and services to the Afghan people.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)

Assistant Commandant visits Afghanistan Marines part 2

2009-02-08T01:07:00.000-08:00

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Gen. James F. Amos addresses the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, during a visit to Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 5, 2009. Amos, the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, made the visit to get a better understanding of how the Marines are living and operating.
U.S. Marines are in Afghanistan to reinforce success and sustain the momentum of the ongoing progress by alliance forces.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)
CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Gen. James F. Amos addresses the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, during a visit to Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 5, 2009. Amos, the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, made the visit to get a better understanding of how the Marines are living and operating.
U.S. Marines are in Afghanistan to reinforce success and sustain the momentum of the ongoing progress by alliance forces.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)
CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Gen. James F. Amos holds a town hall meeting with the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, during a visit to Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 5, 2009. Amos, the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, made the visit to get a better understanding of how the Marines are living and operating. U.S. Marines are in Afghanistan to reinforce success and sustain the momentum of the ongoing progress by alliance forces.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)
CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Gen. James F. Amos (right of center) is briefed by Brig. Gen. Richard M. Lake (right) and Lt. Col. Michael Jernigan (left) during a visit to Camp Barber, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Feb. 5, 2009. Amos, the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, and Lake visited the Marines to increase their situational awareness of the Marines’ area of operations in southern Afghanistan. Lake is the director of intelligence at Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps. Jernigan is the commanding officer of Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. U.S. Marines are in Afghanistan to reinforce success and sustain the momentum of the ongoing progress by alliance forces.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)

Assistant commandant visits Afghanistan Marines

2009-02-06T06:54:00.000-08:00

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos speaks to Marines and sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan Feb. 5, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Amos visited the deployed service members to thank them for their service and share his perspective regarding the new administration, policy changes, additional troops and fielding new equipment in Afghanistan. “I want you to have confidence in the new administration,” he said. “Everything I’ve seen from our president has just been rock solid.”
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)
KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos speaks to Marines and sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan Feb. 5, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Amos visited the deployed service members to thank them for their service and share his perspective regarding the new administration, policy changes, additional troops and fielding new equipment in Afghanistan. “I want you to have confidence in the new administration,” he said. “Everything I’ve seen from our president has just been rock solid.”
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)
KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan –Marines and sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan listen to Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos and members of the commandant’s staff Feb. 5, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Amos visited the deployed service members to thank them for their service and share his perspective regarding the new administration, policy changes, additional troops and fielding new equipment in Afghanistan.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)
KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos speaks with Master Gunnery Sgt. Douglas R. Thurston Feb. 5, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Amos visited the deployed service members to thank them for their service and share his perspective regarding the new administration, policy changes, additional troops and fielding new equipment in Afghanistan. Thurston is the communications section chief for Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

Marines, Afghan National police patrol Farah Province

2009-02-03T01:35:00.000-08:00

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – An Afghan National Policeman maintains security during a patrol with Marines with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 24, 2009. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. By partnering with Afghan security forces, SPMAGTF-A strengthens the ability of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to protect its people.(photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Seaman Apprentice Brian Uibel, a hospital corpsman with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and an Afghan National Policeman stand outside a store during a patrol through a local bazaar in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 24, 2009. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. By partnering with Afghan security forces, SPMAGTF-A strengthens the ability of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to protect its people.(photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)
FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – An Afghan National Army soldier maintains security with Marines with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), as ANA soldiers conduct vehicle inspections in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 25, 2009. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. The vehicle inspections and personnel searches help to ensure security in the area. By partnering with Afghan security forces, SPMAGTF-A strengthens the ability of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to protect its people.(photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)
FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – An Afghan National Army soldier maintains security with Marines with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), as ANA soldiers conduct vehicle inspections in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 25, 2009. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. The vehicle inspections and personnel searches help to ensure security in the area. By partnering with Afghan security forces, SPMAGTF-A strengthens the ability of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to protect its people.(photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)

Afghan National Police, Marines show presence in Delaram marketplace

2009-02-03T00:31:00.000-08:00

Date written: Feb. 2, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

DELARAM, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Afghan National Policemen and U.S. Marines patrolled together through the marketplace of the district center of Delaram, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, in search of illegal activity and contraband Jan. 24, 2009.

The Marines of 1st Platoon, Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, assisted the ANP with searching for narcotics and improvised explosive device-making materials as part of the alliance’s counterinsurgency operations.

The Marines met with the ANP just inside of the city at a fortified police station and immediately the ANP were ready and willing to go. In a matter of moments, the patrol stepped off on foot to maneuver through the city’s crowded bazaar to talk with store owners in an effort to develop a sense of activities within the community.

“Today’s mission was to conduct a patrol in Delaram with the ANP,” said Cpl. Alan D. Morales, the squad leader who led the patrol. “Our platoon’s mission was to work alongside of the ANP while training them and also making sure they are doing the right things. Whenever we go out on patrols, we go with ANP in order to teach them and mentor them.”

Morales went on to say how important it is for the ANP to make its presence known in the area.

“We’re making sure there is an Afghan face out there,” said Morales. “That way the people don’t see (Marines) as the only ones that provide security.”

The Marines of 3/8 arrived in Delaram in late November and have experienced relative stability in the city. According to Morales, the locals within the city are generally always friendly and pleased with the security that alliance forces have provided them.
“They say it’s a lot better than what it used to be in the past,” said Morales. “They are all happy knowing that we always come out and keep the bad guys away.”

On patrol, the ANP and Marines stopped in local businesses. The ANP’s presence in the shops helps to deter the trade of narcotics and IED-making materials. Most all of the shops were found to be legitimate businesses with little doubt as to whether or not they supported the trade or distribution of illegal substances or IED-making materials.

“The (ANP) have a lot of good guys,” said Morales. “They work hard every time we are out there. They do a good job searching people. We let them do most of the searching as far as people go. They’re good at searching cars as well.”

Darren W. Bullard, a U.S. Department of Defense civilian who works closely with the Marines as one of the battalion’s law enforcement professionals, gives the patrols an edge by teaching the ANP tactical patrolling, searching and questioning procedures. He points out the items in shops used to make IEDs, making the ANP aware of what to look for as well.

“Things went real well,” said Bullard. “Several shops are starting to get used to us and recognize our faces whenever we come in. They want us to sit down and drink tea with them and talk, which is a good thing. We didn’t find a whole lot of items that could be used for IEDs, but we did get a little bit of (relevant) info here and there though.”

Bullard said the newly-appointed policemen are becoming more of an asset to the Afghan community as they use of the tactics they are being taught. Bullard is teaching the policemen how to recognize relative clues to illegal activity during their searches.

“You just have to make sure you ask them (ANP) a lot of direct questions,” said Bullard. “They have information, but they usually don’t share that with you unless you just out-right ask.”

Bullard attributes any challenges in communication to differences in culture, but he is pleased with the Marines’ and ANP’s progress in overcoming it. The ANP regularly patrol the city with the assistance of Bullard and the Marines in order to protect the community. Becoming more familiar with the community helps both the ANP and Marines to obtain the information they need to serve the citizens they protect.

Afghan National Army, Marines provide humanitarian assistance to remote Afghan village

2009-02-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

Date written: Feb 1, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

QAMBARAN, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Afghan National Army soldiers provided humanitarian assistance to locals of the southern Afghan village of Qambaran, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 26, 2009, with the assistance of alliance forces.

The ANA took the lead during the operation, while being escorted by U.S. Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, and a team of Italian soldiers of the 186th Parachutist Regiment, 207th Corps. The mission was to build relationships with the villagers while driving a wedge between the locals and insurgents in a known hostile environment.

“We were out there to let them know that they do have a government, and ANA and Afghan National Police are standing up in their area,” said Sgt. Jesus O. Luna, a Marine with 3rd Civil Affairs Group, SPMAGTF-A.

The Afghan and Italian soldiers and U.S. Marines traveled many hours over desolate and difficult terrain to arrive at the village. In such a remote location, the locals there had never witnessed the presence of the ANA before.

“They’re so far removed from other areas that only a few patrols have been up there since the 1980s when the Russians were here,” said 1st Lt. Adam J. Felde, the Weapons Platoon commander of Company K. “We were probably the second, maybe the third American force to have ever been up to Qambaran. The first time we went up there about a month ago, they wouldn’t even look at us. They were more receptive this time.”

“It was the first time the locals and even the older men there have ever reported seeing ANA up there,” said Felde. “A lot of times, the locals don’t even know the ANA are even Muslim. They just think of them as foreigners. They didn’t pay much attention to (U.S. Marines) at all. They were very focused on the ANA.”

The ANA soldiers greeted the villagers and handed out blankets and sweaters provided to them through the donations of the nonprofit organization Spirit of America.

Luna commented on how helpful the donations from Spirit of America were during his previous tour in Iraq and believes they will be just as effective in Afghanistan to help International Security Assistance Forces conduct counterinsurgency operations.

“Anything we get from Spirit of America we give to the ANA to pass out,” said Luna. “It helps the Afghan people build trust and confidence in their government. Everything helps immensely.”

“The (ANA) love it,” said Luna. “They say they just want to keep going out with us because they get to pass out stuff, and they get to put little smiles on faces. They like it just as much as we do.”

U.S. Navy physicians and a doctor from the Italian armed forces also joined in, providing medical attention to those who stepped forward.

One local man, approximately 70-years-old, commented by saying, “You must be here to help us because you’re not hurting us. You are helping us,” as translated by an interpreter.

The medical personnel arrived with a variety of over-the-counter medications, prescription meds and other much-needed items, such as bandages, dressings and antibiotic ointments.

The physicians assisted approximately 25-50 Afghans from ages 3 to 80 years old with a variety of symptoms from lower back pain, arthritis and headaches to cold symptoms and children with regular viral colds and what one physician referred to as “a few interesting cases.”

“I expected to be taken aback a little bit by the situation,” said Lt. j.g. Kevin A. Goodell, a physician assistant with the Shock Trauma Plt. of Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of SPMAGTF-A. “When you see people living in those standards with very little, you can’t help but to compare it with your own life. (It) might not be fair to do, but seeing (the conditions), you can’t help but to be touched by it.”

The physicians treated one child with a chronic infection on his foot, which they were able to treat with antibiotics. Another child was treated for a parasitic infection.

Goodell described the treatment he helped provide as an overall rewarding experience.

“They seemed to be very grateful and satisfied with our assistance,” said Goodell. “I don’t want to be naïve to say they’re cured because they have medicine now, but it was a rewarding experience seeing them getting blankets, sweaters and things that they didn’t have. I would say they expressed in a language that we can all understand, which were just gestures, that they were definitely grateful.”

The mission ended as the ANA handed out the remainder of the humanitarian assistance supplies and everyone who had desired to be seen by the doctors had explained their ailments in return for a diagnosis and medication.

“Our whole mission was accomplished by introducing the ANA, providing security for them, and delivering needed items to the area,” said Felde.

Deployed service members watch the big game

2009-02-01T23:00:00.000-08:00

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan cheer for their favorite teams while watching the big game Feb. 2, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. (photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)
KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan cheer for their favorite teams while watching the big game Feb. 2, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. (photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Deployed service members cheer for their favorite teams while watching the big game Feb. 2, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. (photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan cheer for their favorite teams while watching the big game Feb. 2, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. (photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)

Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 3 transfers authority to MWHS-2 in Afghanistan

2009-02-01T04:17:00.000-08:00

Date written: Feb. 1, 2009
Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lt. Col. Michael E. Watkins, the Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2 detachment commander, assumed command of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s air combat element from Lt. Col. Richard T. Ostermeyer, the MWHS-3 detachment commander, Feb. 1, 2009, on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The MWHS-3 detachment assumed authority from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air combat element Nov. 10, 2008.

“All of us had never worked together as a team,” Ostermeyer said. “I have been very impressed with their ability to rapidly overcome those challenges and come together as one cohesive hard-working unit. It says a lot about the Marine Corps’ capabilities and its desire for mission accomplishment.”

Watkins concurred.

“They’ve done a wonderful job,” he said. “They got the mission established and provided maximum support for the SPMAGTF-A Marines. I’m very impressed with the attitude of the Marines and their drive to provide aviation support to the Marines outside the wire. I hope to continue the success Lieutenant Colonel Ostermeyer and his Marines have achieved.”

SPMAGTF-A’s air combat element is a composite squadron with Marines from all three active-duty Marine aircraft wings. The squadron’s fixed wing detachment is Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. Its rotary wing detachments include Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466, based out of MCAS Miramar, Calif., and Marine Light/Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, based out of MCAS New River, N.C. Its logistics squadron, Marine Aerial Logistics Squadron 26, which also assumed responsibility from MALS-16 Feb. 1, is based out of MCAS Cherry Point. MWHS-2 is based out of MCAS Cherry Point. The air combat element is also augmented with Marines from 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, based in Okinawa, Japan.

“It was definitely an honor and a pleasure getting to lead 179 of the finest Marines the Corps has to offer,” Ostermeyer said. “I’m very grateful to 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing for giving me the opportunity to put this [air combat element] together and lead Marines in combat.”

Astronauts visit Afghanistan Marines

2009-01-31T07:59:00.000-08:00

Date written: Jan. 31, 2009
Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Astronauts with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration visited deployed service members Jan. 31 on Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

According to Air Force Col. Eric Boe, NASA astronaut, he and his colleagues came to Afghanistan to show all service members their support.

“We just wanted to thank all the troops in the field,” he said. “To us, you are the heroes. We want to salute everyone for the job they’re doing out here and thank them for their service.”

During their tour, sponsored by Armed Forces Entertainment, the officers spoke about their last mission in space, Space Transportation System – 126, a re-supply mission during which they took more than 15,000 pounds of supplies to an orbiting space station.

The supplies are used to improve the station to support six astronauts as soon as summer 2009, according to Army Lt. Col. Shane Kimbrough, NASA astronaut.

After entertaining Kandahar’s soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, to include Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, the astronauts answered questions about their experiences in outer space.

“The question we get the most is ‘how do you use the bathroom in space?’” Kimbrough said laughing. “But all joking aside it was nice to get out and talk to the troops. It’s a tough mission they have and we appreciate the hard work they’re doing out here.”

Kimbrough had one last thing to say on the subject of space and the war.

“My favorite part of being an astronaut is looking out the window and seeing our wonderful planet. It looks pretty peaceful, but we know it’s not. We hope all the troops come home safe.”

Air Combat Marines conduct convoy ops

2009-01-31T07:55:00.000-08:00

Date written: Jan. 28, 2009
Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

CAMP HERO, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines attached to Marine aircraft wings spend the majority of their time flying and maintaining their equipment, but every so often, those Marines are given the opportunity to serve in another manner.

The Marines of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan’s air combat element have conducted convoy operations in Afghanistan for the past three months. Despite the discovery of several improvised explosive devices along their routes during the past year, these Marines have embraced the opportunity to conduct operations on the ground.

“We really don’t get to do these kinds of operations in the wing,” said Staff Sgt. Jason R. Rochefort, a dynamic component mechanic with Marine Aerial Logistics Squadron 16 who also serves as the air combat element’s convoy commander. “These convoys are a good opportunity to put down our wrenches and pick up our rifles.”

The Marines conduct semi-monthly convoys to transport their command’s flight surgeon to a women’s medical clinic on Camp Hero, where Navy Lt. Christine Stehman trains and mentors an Afghan midwife to help curb the mortality rate of women and children in a country with one of the highest rate of maternal and infant deaths in the world.

“These guys have been awesome – very motivated and willing to help out,” Stehman said. “My second trip out, prior to the ACE taking over transportation duties, I rode with (Combat Logistics Battalion 3) – the folks who have been trained on this and do this on a regular basis. Since I started riding with the ACE guys, I have been impressed that my trips with them have been smoother, more organized and I have felt just as safe as compared to my trip with CLB.”

To prepare for their task, the MALS Marine received extensive ground operations training prior to their first mission.
According to Cpl. Clintt F. Hazlet, a flight equipment mechanic with MALS-16, he and the team of Marines conducted basic fire team, squad and humvee formation training, in addition to several escalation of force and Afghan culture briefs. Drivers and vehicle commanders received additional training.

“The training these Marines have been through has improved their situational awareness and their ability to detect and avoid dangerous situations,” Rochefort said. “We may be with the wing, but we are Marines: we have to be prepared for anything.”

Despite their precautions, there was one obstacle for which their training did not prepare them.

“There is no prior training for fending off a swarm of children,” Hazlet said jokingly as he passes out candy to Afghan children and watches them tear through a box of toys. “This mission is about helping them, making sure these kids are healthy and grow up knowing we’re just trying to help.”

CLB-3 sets bar in Afghanistan

2009-01-31T03:46:00.000-08:00

Date written: Jan. 30, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Swapping the sandy beaches of Oahu for the sands of Afghanistan, Marines and sailors of the Hawaii-based Combat Logistics Battalion 3 are leaving their footprints while forward-deployed to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The Corps’ newest battalion serves as the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan and provides direct support to the success of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of SPMAGTF-A.

The unit made its mark in the history books June 27, 2008, when it transformed from the nondeployable Combat Service Support Group 3 to the smaller and more deployable CLB-3. A little more than 100 days later, the battalion began deploying its members to Afghanistan.

“The battalion had already assumed that it would be deploying by the time the official order was issued,” said Capt. Robert Barber, CLB-3’s operations officer. “We were already conducting predeployment training and while training quickly, we trained thoroughly.”
Barber said CLB-3 was not officially issued a deployment order until Sept. 27, 2008. The combat logisticians deployed a quartering party Oct. 1, the advance party Oct. 15 and its main body Nov. 2 – all of which they completed within 37 days’ notice.

Barber also said in addition to the predeployment training, there were numerous additional requirements regarding personnel and equipment readiness and the logistical planning required in order to move the battalion from Hawaii to Afghanistan for combat.
Cpl. Joseph W. Iovinelli, Headquarters Company’s noncommissioned officer in charge of organic supply, said it’s a testament to the fact that Marines are always ready at a moment’s notice.

Within the battalion, Headquarters, Support and Motor Transportation Companies supply the unit with the right mix of Marines and resident expertise necessary to create a self-sufficient logistical force ready to complete any mission it’s tasked with.

“The missions that we’re here to (accomplish) are to conduct operations to rid the country of insurgencies and eventually turn it over to the people of Afghanistan, and train and mentor the Afghan National Police,” said 1st Sgt. Michael W. O’Donnell, Headquarters Co. first sergeant. “We support the battalion by making sure that everyone out here has what they need.”

O’Donnell went on to explain that the key role of Headquarters Co. is supporting staff functions, such as intelligence, logistical supply, medical, administration, legal, communications and more.

The Marines of Support Co. are the architectural force of the battalion, making something of nothing using ingenuity and craftsmanship, while utilizing their engineers, bulk fuel specialists and other assets to cover all maintenance aspects.

“We’re the builders and fixers,” said 1st Sgt. Mike Lanpolsaen, Support Co. first sergeant.
Lanpolsaen went on to say that he’s very impressed with their performance of the Marines and the battalion and is proud to be a part of it.

Turning the wheels for success, Motor Transportation Co. brought everything it needs to support 3/8 in the way of supplying and resupplying the forward operating bases to ensure the Marines at the FOBs in the remote reaches of southern Afghanistan receive everything they possibly need to do their jobs. Motor Transportation Co. accomplishes this through its robust combat logistics patrol capability.

“Any logistics items we can take to make their day a little better, we’re going to take to them,” said Staff Sgt. Chris O. Ross, platoon sergeant for Motor Transportation Company’s 2nd Plt.

Ross said the Marines of Motor Transportation Co. are very efficient at what they do and are some of the very best Marines in the Corps.

Proving that it’s the sum of all parts that matters most, each company works with the other to accomplish any task, whether it’s gathering supplies, loading them on the trucks, providing construction support or moving equipment from FOB to FOB.

“Once we get to the FOBs, we are repairing equipment, revamping power grids, providing sustainment supplies, delivering mail, disbursing money and operating mobile post exchanges, building survivable positions and providing life support in the form of laundry, shower and heat to the Marines,” Barber said. “We then return to Camp Bastion and prepare for the next FOB.”

Working around the clock, the battalion has thus far completed 22 combat logistics patrols and participated in strategic operations in support of 3/8.

“We have the ‘North Pole’ model of work,” said Lt. Col. Michael Jernigan, the CLB-3 commanding officer. “In CLB-3, we have the Marines and sailors that do the (work) behind the scenes like Christmas elves making toys, so 3/8 can get the magic of Christmas every day.”

3/8 Marines perform DANCON March

2009-01-31T00:47:00.000-08:00

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), participate in the Danish Contingent March at Camp Bastion, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 23, 2009.
The 23-kilometer hike was held to honor fallen Danish soldiers, and the proceeds generated by the $20 registration fee will be donated to the soldiers’ families. Eight Marines from 3/8 marched in the event to show their support.
3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. SPMAGTF-A is here to reinforce success and sustain the momentum of the ongoing progress by the alliance.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Jerome J. Estrella marches alongside Danish service members during the Danish Contingent March at Camp Bastion, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 23, 2009.
The 23-kilometer hike was held to honor fallen Danish soldiers, and the proceeds generated by the $20 registration fee will be donated to the soldiers’ families. Eight Marines from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), marched in the event to show their support.
Estrella is a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense specialist with 3/8, the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. SPMAGTF-A is here to reinforce success and sustain the momentum of the ongoing progress by the alliance.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Pfc. Omar Horta stays focused during the Danish Contingent March at Camp Bastion, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 23, 2009.
The 23-kilometer hike was held to honor fallen Danish soldiers, and the proceeds generated by the $20 registration fee will be donated to the soldiers’ families. Eight Marines from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), marched in the event to show their support.
Horta is a bulk fuel specialist with 3/8, the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. SPMAGTF-A is here to reinforce success and sustain the momentum of the ongoing progress by the alliance.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)
CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (reinforced), and Danish service members present their certificates of completion at the finish line of the Danish Contingent March at Camp Bastion, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 23, 2009.
The 23-kilometer hike was held to honor fallen Danish soldiers, and the proceeds generated by the $20 registration fee will be donated to the soldiers’ families. Eight Marines from 3/8 marched in the event to show their support.
3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. SPMAGTF-A is here to reinforce success and sustain the momentum of the ongoing progress by the alliance.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer)

Afghan villagers build irrigation ditch

2009-01-29T02:23:00.001-08:00

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Afghan National Police hand out candy to local children while providing security for an irrigation ditch project along Route 515 in Delaram District, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 21, 2009. Dozens of local Afghans showed up to work on the project, which will increase the output of local crop fields by ensuring they have sufficient water. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3 recently completed Operation Gateway III along Route 515 in southern Afghanistan. The operation was a strategically planned effort to clear the route of deadly improvised explosive devices laid by insurgents and provide an alliance presence. CLB-3 is the logistics combat element and 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
(photo by Gunnery Sgt. James A. Burks)

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Chief Warrant Officer Philippe E. Chasse hands out candy to children along Route 515 in Delaram District, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 21, 2009. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3 recently completed Operation Gateway III along Route 515 in southern Afghanistan. The operation was a strategically planned effort to clear the route of deadly improvised explosive devices laid by insurgents and provide an alliance presence. CLB-3 is the logistics combat element and 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
(photo by Gunnery Sgt. James A. Burks)

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – An Afghan man carries a shovel while walking along Route 515 Jan. 21, 2009, in Delaram District, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Dozens of local Afghans showed up to work on the irrigation ditch project, while the Afghan National Police provided security. The project will ensure that local crop fields have sufficient water, increasing their output. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3 recently completed Operation Gateway III along Route 515 in southern Afghanistan. The operation was a strategically planned effort to clear the route of deadly improvised explosive devices laid by insurgents and provide an alliance presence. CLB-3 is the logistics combat element and 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
(photo by Gunnery Sgt. James A. Burks)

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – U.S. Navy corpsmen treat an injured Afghan man while assisting local villagers with an irrigation ditch project along Route 515 in Delaram District, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 21, 2009. Dozens of local Afghans showed up to work on the project, while the Afghan National Police provided security. The project will ensure that local crop fields have sufficient water, increasing their output. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3 recently completed Operation Gateway III along Route 515 in southern Afghanistan. The operation was a strategically planned effort to clear the route of deadly improvised explosive devices laid by insurgents and provide an alliance presence. CLB-3 is the logistics combat element and 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
(photo by Gunnery Sgt. James A. Burks)

A Road More Traveled

2009-01-24T23:33:00.000-08:00

Date written: Jan. 20, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The once deadly, improvised explosive device-laden path of southern Afghanistan’s Route 515 is now safer for everyday vehicle traffic due to the efforts of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3.

During Operation Gateway III, Dec. 28 – Jan. 25, 2009, the Marines and sailors of 3/8 and CLB-3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, cleared any existing IED and insurgent threats on this important east-west route in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Prior to Gateway III, the last time Route 515 saw measurable traffic was July 2008, when 2nd Bn., 7th Marines, last operated on its dirt surface, experiencing several casualties. The absence of an alliance or Afghan National Security Forces presence left broad opportunities for insurgent forces to move at freewill, using it as a resupply route to fuel their insurgency.

Now that the route is clear and combat outposts have been constructed along its 43-kilometer length to boost security, Afghan leaders are hopeful that the reopened route will increase Afghan commerce in the region by enhancing security and allowing freedom of movement for their citizens. The thoroughfare also provides quicker accessibility to and from several of the alliance’s forward operating bases in the region.

In the past several months, both alliance forces and Afghan locals were forced to use Route 1, a path that took them 25 kilometers out of their way, as an alternate means to travel to the southwestern village of Bakwa, despite the realization that Route 515 promoted faster movement.

Lance Cpl. Matthew D. Ellis, an intelligence analyst with SPMAGTF-A, explained insurgents use “rat lines,” which intersect Route 515, to transport supplies and weapons from the south. Rat lines are old caravan routes thought to date back to biblical times, stretching from Pakistan to Iran.

“The 515 goes all the way to Iran, and that’s why the insurgents have been using it to transport weapons and supplies,” Ellis said. “They’ve had time to build up and have freedom of movement for the past six months since 2/7 stopped using the route. Route 515 was the insurgents’ main supply route in this region. We’ve already taken control of Route 1 and now the 515, so they’re not going to be moving a lot of supplies through either route any more.”

CLB-3 supplies success during Operation Gateway III

2009-01-24T23:27:00.000-08:00

Date written: Jan. 20, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines with 2nd Platoon, Motor Transportation Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, conducted multiple combat logistics patrols in support of Operation Gateway III in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Dec. 28, 2008, through Jan. 25, 2009.

The logistics combat element Marines, part of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, endured more than two weeks behind their steering wheels and gun turrets in improvised explosive device-laden terrain during the initial phases of the operation. Military planners with SPMAGTF-A designed Operation Gateway III as a deliberate plan to clear southern Afghanistan’s Route 515 of any existing IED and insurgent threats on the important east-west route.

The combat logisticians directly supported 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of SPMAGTF-A, with the essential supplies and construction support necessary to erect three combat outposts at strategic locations along Route 515. In a limited amount of time, the three locations were successfully developed from barren land into safe havens for the 3/8 Marines occupying the area.

“Ultimately I was surprised,” said Staff Sgt. Chris O. Ross, platoon sergeant. “The COPs were built quickly, and the Marines were working overtime to do it.”

Ross also said the timing and coordination required to conduct the operation came together well.

Second Lt. Juliann C. Naughton, 2nd Platoon’s convoy commander, explained it’s shocking for the locals to wake up the next morning to see that a military outpost has appeared from nowhere during the course of the night.

“The logistical support was a success, and we delivered the materials in a timely manner,” Naughton said. “We’ve also been interacting with the villagers and letting them know why we’re here.”

Fortifications including concertina wire, a parapet several feet tall and dirt-filled protective barriers ensured the Marines on the interior of the COPs were shielded from outside threats. Multiple observation posts and several heavy and medium machine guns provided security and over-watch for the combat logisticians as they performed their craft.

The interior of the COPs offer living quarters, hygiene facilities, combat operations centers and more to accommodate its current and future residents.

The posts were strategically placed along the route to show an alliance presence, as well as enable safe travel.

“We cleared 515 to make it safer for the Marines, but also the Afghan people and to gain ground for future operations,” said Lance Cpl. Kevin L. Tobler, a turret gunner with 2nd Plt.

Tobler said he was excited to contribute to the operation and felt he was doing his part, ensuring the safety of the Marines in his vehicle and those around him.

Making their first initial push down Route 515 Dec. 28, the combat logistics patrol of mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles, humvees, 7-ton trucks and logistics vehicle systems made their move down the 43-kilometer-long stretch of dangerous roadway.

Naughton explained that Route 515 hadn’t been traveled by the U.S. military since July 2008, and it is notorious for the IEDs buried in its dirt-packed surface.

Driving more than 290 miles on a series of interconnected asphalt roads and carving their own path into the Afghan soil of Route 515, the combat logistics patrol provided 3/8 with more than 100,000 pounds of supplies, consisting of tents, communications equipment, food, water and other provisions to supply the COPs.

Team Smasher, 3/8’s route clearance and heavy weapons element, was used as a buffer between CLB-3’s supply trucks and potential IEDs placed in the road. Although Smasher came into contact with multiple IEDs, 2nd platoon was able to avoid any complications due to Smasher’s mutual support.

“Marines are first to fight,” Naughton said. “We put ourselves at the point of friction and now have a presence. 515 is dangerous, everything we do is dangerous, but it’s a risk we take.”

Naughton explained that the Marines have to ensure their own safety, as well as those around them and those they can’t see. On the road, every Marine was on the alert and aware of their surroundings.

“It can be rough being on the road for long periods of time, but I love driving in the convoys and our missions,” said Lance Cpl. Tyrone Young, a motor transport operator with 2nd Plt. “I feel we’re helping the Afghan people and the fight against the insurgents, but mostly that we’re making a difference.”

Upon arrival at each coordinated destination, CLB-3 was given a 48-hour time limit to construct a security perimeter and continue building the COPs.

Once the supplies were removed from the vehicles, Support Co. Marines with CLB-3 began construction on the defensive barriers using heavy equipment to fill them and military bulldozers to create and push mounds of dirt.

Once the walls were built, tents were set in place, ground communications were established, and an inner defense of mortars was set.

“The Marines were excited to be part of the operation and help out in any way possible,” Ross said. “They never showed signs of slowing down.”

While at COP Barrow, the Marines were attacked twice with mortar fire but were quick to respond, using radio communications, vehicle movement and 3/8’s mortar fire.

“Communication at all levels,” Naughton said. “The Marines know how to react, and they respond well to any situation.”

Much coordinated planning was implemented by CLB-3 and 3/8 before Operation Gateway III began.

“It’s a team,” said Lt. Col. Michael Jernigan, the CLB-3 commanding officer. “As a MAGTF we were able to do this with the ground combat element. We provided the logistics backbone.”

Jernigan said the Marines work long days and nights, and workdays are sometimes 36 to 48 hours; however, each Marine carries their weight, whether they’re driving in a truck to resupply a position, or they are operating heavy equipment.

“In CLB-3, we have Marines and sailors that do the things behind the scenes. They work all night, they work all day and they work all year round,” Jernigan said. “Additionally, we’ve got the team at Bastion that’s resetting all the maintenance parts and sending out contact teams to fix all the equipment from 3/8 and (CLB-3), so we can continue the mission.”

The work of the Marines is always impressive, he said.

“(We were) a key component because we had to do a lot of the backstage work,” Jernigan said. “We moved into an hostile environment, brought what we needed to survive and built three (COPs), to enable the Afghan police to move in and coordinate with the U.S. Marines to make that area safer for the local Afghans.”

Once all three COPs were complete, CLB-3 regrouped back to Camp Barber to reset for future operations. “Our mission here is direct support to 3/8. This is what we expect,” Jernigan said. “The Marines have always come through and done what is required of them. They use innovation and think of solutions to problems that people haven’t seen yet.”

Marines of 3/8 clear southern Afghanistan’s deadly Route 515

2009-01-24T23:19:00.000-08:00

Date written: Jan.21, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines and sailors of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3 successfully completed Operation Gateway III, Dec. 28, 2008, through Jan. 25, 2009, in Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

As the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, 3/8 dispatched Weapons Company’s “Team Smasher,” a task-organized element comprised of a Route Clearance Platoon with heavy weapons elements, to clear southern Afghanistan’s Route 515. The Marines of CLB-3, SPMAGTF-A’s logistics combat element, followed in trace, constructing three combat outposts along the important east-west route.

Marines of 3/8’s Co. I provided security for Team Smasher and CLB-3’s combat logisticians by conducting joint patrols with Afghan National Army soldiers, and then manned the outposts once they were constructed.

Route 515, which is notorious for improvised explosive devices laid by insurgents, has been a road few have dared to travel, but it is an important roadway that provides a direct route between the districts of Delaram and Bakwa in the east of Farah Province.

“By opening Route 515, we will decrease travel time for alliance forces, as well as enable civilian goods, that are vital to the community, to pass through the area with less resistance,” said Lt. Col. David L. Odom, 3/8’s commanding officer. “The clearing of the route will also open the lines of communication between the two major district centers.”

The construction of the COPs provides an alliance presence in a volatile area, which in turn provides a safer environment for local villagers by eliminating many of the imminent dangers that locals and Marines faced while traveling through the region.

“There is more danger during the commute to work than there is actually at work, so it will be in everybody’s best interest to have a Marine presence in the area,” said Capt. Mike Hoffman, Co. I. commanding officer.

Odom said the COPs are designed to deny the insurgents the ability to disrupt the security that’s now established on Route 515.

While at the COPs, Marines conducted both mounted and dismounted security patrols and provided a quick reaction force, designed to respond at short notice to any contingencies that arose during the operation. When the Marines were not on patrol or on standby with the QRF, they were constantly fortifying their position, which included filling thousands of dirt-filled protective barriers and laying hundreds of coils of concertina wire.

The COPs were reinforced with machine guns and 120 mm mortar systems provided by 3/8’s Weapons Co., 81mm mortar platoon. The Marines were also supported from the sky with close-in fire support provided by several AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopters of Marine Light/Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, a component of the SPMAGTF-A’s air combat element, and Scan Eagle unmanned aerial vehicles to keep an eye on insurgent activity.

The Marines conducted several face-to-face engagements with local villagers to ensure they knew the Marines were there to provide a safer environment for them. During one meeting, a local villager said he enjoyed the Marine presence in the area and thinks the clearing and plans to pave the route in the future could definitely bring more commerce to the Afghan villages.

Throughout the operation, the Marines at the COPs remained vigilant and ready for enemy resistance. During an indirect fire attack during which COP Barrow was targeted by numerous enemy mortar rounds, the Marines returned fire with 120 mm mortar systems and dispatched a QRF in a matter of minutes.

“We always have to be ready,” said Lance Cpl. Anthony Lostal, a mortarman with 3/8’s Weapons Co., and one of the mortarmen who quickly responded to the IDF attack. “One second too late, and that could cost a Marine his life,” he said.

During the course of the operation, the Marines located and defeated dozens of IEDs, apprehended and tactically questioned several persons of interest and eliminated several insurgents.

The three COPs along Route 515 will eventually transition from just a U.S. Marine presence into a combined presence of Afghan National Police and U.S. Marines to ensure the safety of local villagers and alliance forces, Odom explained.

Huskies help Marines lead way in Afghanistan

2009-01-24T23:13:00.000-08:00

Date written: Jan. 21, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines are employing a unique piece of equipment that’s helping lower the threat of improvised explosive devices in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
Operation Gateway III, which involved the clearing of southern Afghanistan’s IED-laden Route 515, marked the first time the Route Clearance Platoon of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), used the Husky tactical support vehicle in combat operations.

The Husky, equipped with an Interim Vehicle Mounted Mine Detector to detect hidden metallic explosives, is similar in construction to the mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicle, also known as the MRAP, with a V-shaped undercarriage to direct the blast away from the vehicle and protect its driver.

Its single-operator cockpit is fitted with armored steel, ballistic windows and an on-board automatic fire extinguisher. The vehicle detects IEDs with its IVMMD, which employs both metal detection and ground penetrating radar sensors to find the deadly IEDs.

“This is a very safe vehicle,” said Andrew Jorgensen, the lead field service representative of the Husky [s1] . “There have been a lot of safety upgrades to ensure the operator is well protected. I have known operators to have had an explosive detonate underneath this vehicle, and then 15 minutes later they are outside taking pictures with the vehicle.”

First Lt. Samuel Murray, the Route Clearance Plt. commander, said his Marines feel very secure in the Husky.

“This is an overall better vehicle than previous models,” Murray said. “If a mine were to detonate underneath the vehicle, I am sure the operator would come out of it just fine.”

During Operation Gateway III, the upgraded Huskies proved to be effective after encountering pressure-plate IEDs that detonated beneath the vehicles. Reports confirmed that the vehicles sustained mostly minimal damage that did not require outside assistance to repair and no injuries were reported. In most cases, the vehicles were back on the road in less than two hours.

Once the Husky’s IVMMD detects an IED, it sounds an alarm to the operator in the cabin.

“The sensors on the IVMMD pin-point exactly where the explosives are hidden,” Murray said. “Once we figure out where it is, we mark it using water-based paint.”

The finding is then exploited by explosive ordnance disposal teams.

The Husky has also been used in Iraq since 2003 to battle the threat of IEDs, and now the vehicles are a vital asset for saving lives and completing the overall mission in Afghanistan.

“The Husky keeps us from having to put Marines on the ground to sweep for mines,” Murray explained. “Although this isn’t the sexiest job in the Marine Corps, it is a job that has to be done and we are well prepared to handle it.”

Marine logistics patrol pushes through IEDs, insurgent attacks in Afghanistan

2009-01-18T07:55:00.000-08:00

Date written: Jan. 17, 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Not even a series of potentially deadly events was enough to stop a Marine combat logistics patrol from meeting its objective recently in southern Afghanistan.

The 1st Platoon of Combat Logistics Battalion 3’s Motor Transportation Company proved its combat abilities and calmness under fire when insurgents attempted to waylay one of its combat logistics patrols traveling from here to Forward Operating Base Musa Qala, Dec. 13, 2008.

While enroute to the FOB with a load of British and American supplies, the platoon, part of the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, experienced several improvised explosive device strikes and discoveries, damaged vehicles and a coordinated attack by insurgents.

“There were three things I said would happen during this convoy,” said Sgt. Benjamin C. Chesterbristow, the dismounted sweep team noncommissioned officer in charge for 1st Plt.

Chesterbristow predicted the combat logistics patrol would find an IED, hit an IED and engage in a firefight – his predictions became reality.

The combat logistics patrol struck two IEDs, uncovered four additional IEDs, received indirect and small-arms fire and rocket-propell
ed grenade fire all within a 54-hour period before reaching its destination more than 60 kilometers away.

“My whole cab filled with dust, and I couldn’t see in front of my face,” said Pfc. Christopher M. Reep, a motor transport operator with 1st Plt, who was operating a 7-ton truck that day.

Reep’s truck was the first to roll over a hidden IED, and he said it was the loudest pop he’d ever heard in his life.

In the process of approaching Reep’s battered truck, sweep team members, trained specifically to find IEDs, uncovered two more IEDs buried beneath the earth and called for their explosive ordnance removal team to destroy the threats.

Once Reep’s immobilized vehicle was rigged to be towed, the combat logistics patrol pressed forward through the unmarked terrain with no road to guide them.

“I knew about Musa Qala and the route,” said 23-year-old 2nd Lt. Rebecca M. Turpin, 1st Platoon’s convoy commander. “It wasn’t surprising that we were hit.”

Shortly after, the combat logistics patrol hit another IED during the night that destroyed the lead vehicle’s mine roller, a device used to pre-detonate IEDs and protect the vehicles and their occupants.

“I don’t remember the sound of the blast, all I remember is smoke flying in front of us, as well as the laughter in the back of my vehicle and someone yelling-out ‘we found one,’” remarked Chesterbristow.

Having to stop for the night, the patrol set up a defensive position and attempted to get some rest until it could acquire a new mine roller.

Fortunately, CLB-3’s combat operations center arranged the air-lift of a replacement mine roller, which arrived at midnight via a British CH-47 Chinook helicopter.The Marines worked diligently to install the replacement mine roller in order for the patrol to continue its push forward.

At first light on Dec. 14, the combat logistics patrol continued its movement but was attacked with rocket propelled grenades and small-arms fire courtesy of insurgents outside a nearby village. One of the RPGs struck the patrol’s refueling truck, rendering it immobile and leaving the patrol no choice but to set up another defensive position until the truck’s damaged wheel could be repaired.

Air support consisting of a pair of AH-1W Super Cobra helicopters from Marine Light/Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, part of SPMAGTF-A’s air combat element, was dispatched to give the patrol further assistance, suppressing the insurgents’ attack, while F/A-18 Hornets and a B-1 Bomber from other alliance forces waited on standby.

“I’ve never seen anyone shoot RPGs accurately before, but all our movements were right. Everyone posted security where they needed to, and the gunners were on-point with their weapons,” said Sgt. Steven K. Smith, a motor transport operator with 1st Plt.

Smith said he’s encountered similar situations but never in such close succession.

“You’re drained and tired,” Smith explained. “You want to sleep, but you want to stay up. Your body and your mind are fighting each other at the same time.”

“It’s a new battlefield for me,” said Chesterbristow, who has three tours in Iraq under his belt. “It’s definitely an eye-opener to see a force that actually wants to stay and fight.”

Through training, combat proficiency and cool thinking, the combat logistics patrol reached its destination in Musa Qala, off-loaded its cargo, and then returned to base with no casualties.

“Before stepping off, everybody knew what to do, and that’s exactly what they did,” Turpin said. “The Marines are efficient and are the most professional and calm group of Marines I have. It’s an absolute honor to serve with them.”

Marines construct construct and guard combat outposts

2009-01-17T04:47:00.000-08:00

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), fire 120 mm mortars on a combat outpost during Operation Gateway III Jan. 2, 2009, in the Farah province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. (photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)
FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marine Sgt. Brian Morris (right), a mortarman with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, supervises Marines filling dirt-filled protective barriers on a combat outpost during Operation Gateway III in the Farah Province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Jan. 6, 2009. 3/8 is the ground combat element for the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Afghanistan. (photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)
FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), maintain security on a patrol during Operation Gateway III in the Farah province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Jan. 7, 2009. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. (photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)
FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Christopher Hudson, with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), maintains security on a patrol during Operation Gateway III in the Farah province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Jan. 7, 2009. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. ( photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)

Cobras strike in Afghanistan

2009-01-16T05:58:00.000-08:00

Story by Capt. Justin M. Welan
Photos by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

CAMP BASTION, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The shriek of the air horn breaks the silence of the day, the peaceful calm of the flight line violently interrupted. In seconds, papers fly, chairs are knocked out of the way, and shouts fill the air as maintainers and aircrew sprint to the aircraft.

To the casual observer, it seems nothing more than chaos erupting. But for Marine Light/Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, Detachment B, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, this is an intricate and rehearsed reaction, as each member moves with the rapid precision reminiscent of a NASCAR pit stop. One hundred meters and thirty seconds later, pilots are already donning their flight gear. Just minutes later, the aircraft are already started, armed and pilots are grabbing last-minute details for the troops in contact from the battalion air officer. As they pull in collective, clawing into the air, the aircraft momentarily shudder as every single ounce of lift is allocated to getting a full load of fuel, rockets, rounds and missiles airborne. As the Cobras disappear on the horizon, silence again fills the air along with the nervous anticipation among the mix of airframers, avionics technicians and ordnance men. They turn-to in preparation for hot reloading, troubleshooting and battle damage assessment, as the next evolution of managed chaos is about to begin.

The Marine Corps’ 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, originally scheduled to deploy to Iraq, was redirected a month prior to deployment and by April found itself operating in the Helmand province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Tasked with the mission of training and mentoring the Afghan National Police, 2/7 was baptized under the full assault of Taliban and insurgent forces. They faced rocket and mortar indirect fire, or IDF attacks, direct-fire engagements from small-arms, rocket-propelled grenades and heavy machine guns, as well as a vast network of Improvised Explosive Device manufacturers and emplacers.

The mission of 2/7 was to establish, train and mentor local ANP units in order to build confidence in their ability to deter and interdict the insurgency. Reinforcements assigned to assist 2/7 with its mission included a combat engineer platoon, a shock trauma platoon, a radio battalion detachment, reconnaissance Marines, DynCorp civilian contractors and personnel specializing in civil military operations.
No deployment is complete, however, without the presence of “Mr. Murphy.” The Marines of 2/7 rapidly found themselves deeply engaged in combat operations and quickly realized that their training and mentoring mission would have to be complimented by significant counterinsurgency and combat operations. The mission for 2/7 formally changed and the wheels at Headquarters Marine Corps were set in motion to reconfigure the Marines in Afghanistan for full combat support. Among the shortfalls identified immediately were rotary wing close air support assets.

“Be prepared to leave for Afghanistan as early as this weekend.” Those were the words of our executive officer, as he spoke to us on a Tuesday morning in early August, in our ready room aboard Marine Corps Air Station New River, Jacksonville, N.C. Even though the squadron had spent the previous months preparing for its fifth deployment to Iraq, rumors had been swirling around about an alternate tasking to provide a detachment in support of 2/7.

In the end, the decision was made to deploy HML/A-269, Det. B, to Afghanistan to support Task Force 2/7. The detachment, comprised of four AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopters, ten pilots and approximately forty aircraft maintainers, ordnance men and support Marines, arrived at Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan, in mid-August of 2008.

Upon its arrival to Kandahar, HML/A-269, Det. B, was initially placed under operational control to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air combat element formed from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365, also stationed out of MCAS New River.
That first week in-country was filled with a variety of briefs with topics ranging from rules of engagement to first aid. In addition to theater in-briefs and acclimatization, pilots began their orientation flights while the maintainers quickly got acquainted with the aircraft. Frequent IDF attacks reminded everyone that even though Kandahar Air Field was a sprawling multinational base hosting thousands of service members and civilian contractors with a steady flow of U.S. and international heavy-lift aircraft, foreign attack jets, and a wide array of transport helicopters, both civilian contractor and military, it was located in the middle of a dangerous combat zone.

The advantages of Marine Corps rotary wing close air support became readily apparent to the operational forces in Regional Command – South. HML/A-269, Det. B, was comprised of experienced pilots and maintainers, most with two previous combat deployments under their belts. Within one week of arrival, HML/A-269, Det. B, repositioned from Kandahar to its present home at Camp Bastion and began conducting flight operations in support of 2/7. The mission was simple: provide close air support in direct support of 2/7, 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week. With no end date established, the Marines of HML/A-269, Det. B, were ready to get to work.
On several early flights in 2/7’s area of operations, surface-to-air fire was encountered and dealt with appropriately and effectively. The mission of forward air control (airborne) was also frequently executed to control aviation and surface fires at the outposts. Much like 2/7, HML/A-269, Det. B, quickly found itself immersed in a kinetic fight on a regular basis.

The move to Camp Bastion was a step back in time to the days of the Corps’ combined arms exercises at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms. A single airstrip, with a small contingent of general purpose medium-sized tents represented the entire Marine Air-Ground Task Force footprint. Looking off to the north, Hildago was replaced by Kuh’e Khvajeh Ultat Baba, and at about the same distance to Gay’s Pass was FOB Cafferetta, on the edge of a town called Now Zad, a war-torn village that conjures images of no-man’s land from WWI. Thankfully, the offensive smell of the waste-water treatment pond, also know as Lake Bandini, was left back at Kandahar.

Built in early 2006, Camp Bastion is the largest British overseas military camp built since World War II and the main British military base in Afghanistan. It is situated northwest of Lashkar Gah, the capital of Helmand province. Originally quartering only British forces and a small number of U.S. Special Forces and civilian contractors, Camp Bastion became the home of 2/7 and, after a brief stay in Kandahar, home to HML/A-269, Det. B.

In spite of its small size, Camp Bastion revealed itself to be a busy place. HML/A-269, Det. B, shared the air field with British Apaches, CH-47s, H3s, and Lynx. U.S. Army Blackhawks flew out of Camp Bastion, filling the medevac role for the area of operations. In addition to these aircraft that called Camp Bastion home, the airspace was continuously transited by Marine CH-53s and C-130s, Air Force C-17s, coalition unmanned aerial systems and a wide variety of coalition and civilian cargo aircraft.

Task Force 2/7’s area of operations was greater than 35,000 square kilometers (more than twice the size of Connecticut), with terrain that varied from flat, open desert to rugged 9,000-foot mountain peaks. Population centers ranged in size from small groups of tents, erected by sheep herders, to cities with populations in the thousands. Nowhere in their AO was there a safe haven for the Marines that was free from the constant threat of enemy attack. Such attacks were, at times, as simple as pressure plate IEDs, or as complex as coordinated small-arms and mortar attacks complete with support-by-fire positions and maneuver elements.

Using the theater call sign “Abusive,” HML/A-269, Det. B, immediately got to work for 2/7 by focusing on a core mission set that centered around close air support, surface and rotary wing escort, and armed reconnaissance. Previous training and experience allowed HML/A-269, Det. B, to quickly get the birds in the air and support the ground troops needing the firepower they had to offer. The detachment quickly established a battle rhythm. In addition to pre-planned missions, HML/A-269, Det. B, was ready at a moment’s notice to respond to mission supporting troops in contact. Within the first week after their arrival, the pilots on both shifts became intimately familiar with the various towns and widely varying terrain as a result of supporting tasking and responding to missions throughout all 35,000 square kilometers of 2/7’s AO.

Word of HML/A-269, Det. B’s arrival at Camp Bastion spread fast throughout the AO and support requests from a wide array of Combined Joint Special Operation Task Force units, Estonian forces and British ground forces started flooding in. The task for the HML/A-269, Det. B, operations officer was to liaise with the MEU operations section in order to balance all of the various requests. HML/A-269, Det. B’s primary mission was to support 2/7, however; great effort was put forth to provide support to other units as asset allocation would allow.

The months of September and October found the Marines of HML/A-269, Det. B, heavily engaged with the Taliban and insurgents. Little by little however, the insurgent fighters learned that shooting while “the skinny gray helicopters” (Taliban description of the AH-1W) were overhead was not a bright idea. Soon, the distinctive sound of the AH-1Ws flying overhead was enough to quell attacks on friendly forces. The pilots of the detachment were faced with the feeling, familiar to any attack helicopter pilot, that the “bad guys” were getting away. However, the security that the presence of AH-1Ws overhead provided was often enough for mission accomplishment, even if a round was never fired.

After an initial honeymoon period of relatively little surface-to-air fire as the insurgents reacted to the presence of AH-1Ws in the AO, the situation gradually evolved and surface-to-air fires became more frequent. Along with radio intercepts discussing their attempts to hide from the helicopters, enemy fighters’ discussions turned frequently to shooting at those same helos, with airburst RPG’s being the weapon of choice. As the threat evolved, the pilots of HML/A-269, Det. B, continually re-examined their tactics so as to best accomplish the mission while reducing the enemy’s effectiveness.

Cowardly one moment, brazen another, the insurgent fighters proved to be a resilient and ever-present threat. They were knowledgeable on the alliance forces’ rules of engagement and were quick to adapt and change their own tactics, techniques and procedures to exploit the limits of the alliance’s ROE. They gave little to no thought to using innocent civilians as human shields. One of the obvious advantages they had was an intimate knowledge of the terrain and population centers. They used this familiarity to mask their movements and to blend in with the local populace.

During the early part of November, the squadron detachment gained a new headquarters element. The 24th MEU departed and was replaced by SPMAGTF-A. Headquartered out of Kandahar, SPMAGTF-A picked up where the 24th MEU left off, taking over command of HML/A-269, Det. B, as well as 2/7.

In late November, after eight intense months of daily combat operations, 2/7 was replaced by 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced). Since HML/A-269 and 3/8 are both stationed in Jacksonville, N.C., the arrival of 3/8 brought a number of familiar faces to Camp Bastion, to include two Cobra pilots from HML/A-269 who were on one-year FAC tours. With their relief-in-place with 2/7 complete, 3/8 rapidly got to work, picking up where their predecessors left off.

In addition to a change in higher headquarters and supported units, November brought another undeniable change – cold weather. Sitting at roughly 3,000 feet mean sea level, Camp Bastion’s temperatures regularly dropped below freezing at night and struggled to break the mid-40s during the day. This presented increasing challenges to the maintenance Marines. With no hangar facilities, all maintenance, from the routine “daily and turnarounds” to in-depth phase inspections, was conducted while exposed to the deteriorating weather. Mid-December also marked the official beginning of the Afghan rainy season, which complicated the situation even further. Camp Bastion’s dirt roads, combined with the influx of rain and heavy vehicle traffic, created a quagmire.

In spite of the worsening weather, the mission and operational tempo did not change. The expected slow-down in insurgent activity that normally arrives with the Afghanistan winter never materialized. In fact, through the first half of December, the squadron detachment flew nearly as many hours at it had in any previous full month. HML/A-269, Det. B, found itself being requested by external agencies and multinational forces even more than usual during periods of degraded weather, when fixed-wing aircraft couldn’t fly. The detachment’s capabilities and training allowed it to operate in conditions considered unworkable for any other rotary wing asset in theater. The AH-1W Super Cobra’s all weather capabilities make it absolutely vital to the fight in Afghanistan, especially during the winter months when the weather traditionally takes a turn for the worse. The pilots of HML/A-269, Det. B, realized that their enemies were bound and determined to hold onto any and all tactical and geographical advantages they had secured throughout the recent months.

Looking back on the time that HML/A-269, Det. B, spent in Afghanistan, it is impossible to ignore the improvements made by U.S. and alliance ground forces. Their efforts have assisted the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in weakening the grip of terror to which Taliban and insurgent fighters had been subjecting the people of Afghanistan. The combination of kinetic operations and civil military interactions to include the training of local forces and in-depth counterinsurgency operations has made significant strides toward pacifying the strongholds of the insurgents. The balanced use of the full-range of mission capabilities of the MAGTF once again demonstrated why the Marine Corps is the force of choice when combating an insurgency.

Vice President-elect Biden visits Marines in Afghanistan

2009-01-12T03:37:00.000-08:00

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – U.S. Vice President-elect Joe Biden meets with U.S. Marines assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan during his visit to Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 11, 2009. Biden spoke to senior leaders with the International Security Assistance Force regarding operations in theater. “I am very interested in what becomes of this region because it affects all of us,” Biden said. During his stay, Biden reaffirmed his and President-elect Barack Obama’s pledge to support the troops and their efforts in the region.
(photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso)
CAMP BASTION, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – U.S. senators and U.S. military leaders sit and talk after eating lunch during their visit to Camp Bastion, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 11, 2009. U.S. Army Brig. Gen. John Nicholson (left), the deputy commander of Regional Command South; U.S. Army Gen. David McKiernan (second from left), commander of the NATO-led force in Afghanistan; Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles (center), the British ambassador to Afghanistan; U.S. Vice President-elect Joe Biden (right); and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham (second from right) visited Camp Bastion during their tour of Afghanistan and met Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)

CAMP BASTION, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – U.S. Vice President-elect Joe Biden (center) and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham (right) speak with Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles (left), the British ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, during their visit to Camp Bastion, Helmand Province, Afghanistan, Jan. 11, 2009. They visited Camp Bastion during their tour of Afghanistan and met Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)

CAMP BASTION, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – U.S. Vice President-elect Sen. Joe Biden (left) and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham (right) pose for a photograph with U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Francois D. Stills (center), at the Camp Bastion mess hall, Jan. 11, 2009. Biden, Lindsey and U.S. military leaders in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan visited Camp Bastion, Helmand Province, Afghanistan, during their tour of Afghanistan and met Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. Stills is the administration chief for 3/8.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)

Spirit of America’s generous support aids Marines, Afghan forces in counterinsurgency operations

2009-01-08T05:20:00.000-08:00

Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Spirit of America, a nonprofit organization supported solely by private contributions, is offering their generosity to Marines and Afghan National Security Forces in their fight against the ongoing insurgency in the Helmand and Farah provinces of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Spirit of America has arranged to spend a start-up amount of $50,000 of its collected donations toward the purchase of supplies and equipment to be shipped to and distributed by 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), to Afghan National Security Forces and the local populace. Plans for the procurement of an additional $500,000 of much-needed medical supplies are also underway.

As the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, Marines with 3/8 train, mentor and partner with Afghan National Security Forces as they work to provide a secure environment for the Afghan people.

“Spirit of America contacted us,” said Maj. Brian T. Mulvihill, the executive officer of 3/8. “They described what they did in Iraq and offered us the same support. We gladly accepted, as the benefits critically enhance our and the Afghan National Security Forces’ mission capabilities in this counterinsurgency environment.”

With the help of Spirit of America, 3/8 is able to provide the Afghan National Security Forces with equipment, in addition to mentorship, to help the Afghans secure and defend their country.

“The supplies will be given to the local governments of the different district centers in which we operate,” Mulvihill said. “In turn, with security and oversight from us, those supplies will be distributed to those most in need. This will enable the local government and security forces to take a bigger role in providing for their own people.”

The first shipment to 3/8, expected in March, includes an assortment of desired supplies, such as ballistic eye protection, hygiene kits, military-use first aid kits, personal hydration systems and water purification tablets. The second shipment of $500,000-worth of much-needed medical supplies will help sustain local Afghan medical clinics, which are in dire need of the supplies.

The donations will be used to legitimize the local Afghan leadership and greatly increase 3/8’s success in its counterinsurgency mission.
Alliance forces continually stress that Afghan leadership is the key to success in Afghanistan, and America’s donations will reinforce security gains with positive improvements for the local populace.

Success in Afghanistan requires the host nation to defeat insurgents or render them irrelevant, uphold the rule of law, and provide a basic level of essential services and security for the populace. The key to all these tasks is developing an effective Afghan National Security Force.

“The key to winning a counterinsurgency fight is to create stability for the local populace,” said Mulvihill. “The way the enemy wins is by destabilizing local government, or by creating the appearance that they are the ones that can provide the necessary security. These supplies will allow us to help legitimize the local government and security forces in the eyes of the people.”

“We are excited to work with 3/8 on this outreach effort to benefit the Afghan people,” said Michele Redmond, the program director of Spirit of America. “Spirit of America was founded as a means to channel the incredible generosity of the American people to help U.S. troops fighting the war on terror. Spirit of America has always supported requests to aid the Afghan people, but earlier this year we recognized the increased significance of success in Afghanistan and the vital contribution that winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people could play in that success.”

Spirit of America was born out of the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001. With possible future troop level increases in Afghanistan, the American public is focused on the challenges in the region.

“As always, Spirit of America stands ready to help our troops in Afghanistan as they do everything within their power to stabilize the area, build positive relationships with the various populations and plant the seeds of freedom for all,” said Dennis Norris, the executive director of Spirit of America. “Spirit of America supporters will take this project under their collective wings, as they have done with all of our projects, and see to its eventual success. Together they will fund an effort that yields positive results for both the Afghan people and the (troops) involved in the project’s implementation.”

Visit Spirit of America’s Web site at: http://www.spiritofamerica.net/site/mission for information on its support to military operations around the world. Also, visit Spirit of America’s 3/8 project page at: http://www.spiritofamerica.net/projects.

VMGR-252 supports combat operations in Afghanistan

2009-01-08T04:28:00.000-08:00

Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Combat operations are what every Marine has trained for, and are some of the most arduous times as well. Long hours, poor living conditions, and knowing that the Marine next to you is counting on you are all components of the life we live. These factors and others all combine to define forward deployed Marines around the world. These Marines have answered the call of their country and Corps and are doing everything and more than what has been asked of them.

Included in this company are the aircrew and maintainers of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 Detachment B. They deployed from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., and have been performing combat operations from Kandahar Air Field, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan since Oct. 23, 2008.

The mission of VMGR-252 Det. B is to support the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan commander by providing air-to-air refueling and assault support, day or night, under all weather conditions during expeditionary, joint, or combined operations.
As of Dec. 20, 2008, VMGR-252 Det. B has flown more than 300 flight hours. These flights have been critical to the war fighting effort in support of North Atlantic Treaty Organization, International Security Assistance Force and SPMAGTF-A.

From Oct. 23, 2008 to Dec. 20, 2008, VMGR-252 Det. B carried more than 1.7 million pounds of cargo, 3,000 passengers, delivered more than 60,000 pounds of supplies via aerial delivery and provided battlefield illumination on 12 separate occasions to Marines and ISAF forces on the ground.

The daily success of the squadron’s mission hinges on many variables and every Marine has a role to play. Just like any team, the seamless integration of the operations department, maintenance department and aircrew is the key to providing SPMAGTF-A every capability of the KC-130J Hercules.

Operations Department

The operations department begins each day by collating and prioritizing the tasking received from SPMAGTF-A while taking into account the requirements of the maintenance department. Then a “flow,” or schedule of events, is created and that becomes the plan of the day.

To date, missions in support of SPMAGTF-A, NATO, and ISAF have included heavy cargo and passenger transport, aerial delivery, battlefield illumination and rapid ground refueling.

Those assault support missions are crucial to the success of ground forces operating within the borders of Afghanistan due to the unique terrain and weather conditions associated with this location.

“Aerial delivery is probably the most important mission we can provide ground troops due to the poor weather and a lack of road structure,” said Capt. Kevin M. Shiels, a KC-130J aircraft commander and assistant operations officer.

Delivering essential items such as water, chow, fuel and ammo via parachute allows the operating forces, whether they are U.S. Marines, British Royal Marine Commandos, or Special Forces, to stay embedded and extend their presence within a specific area, according to Shiels.

In addition to providing supplies to ground troops, the unit also has the ability to establish mobile FARPs, or Forward Arming and Refueling Points, by taking advantage of the KC-130J performance characteristics. VMGR-252 Det. B has the ability to land at unimproved landing zones, set up hoses and nozzles providing multiple refueling points, and await the planned arrival of various tactical and assault support helicopters and tilt-rotor aircraft. VMGR-252 Det. B conducted rapid ground refueling in support of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466, another component of the SPMAGTF-A air combat element, during a high priority VIP mission Dec. 1, 2008, issuing 16,100 lbs of.

This refueling evolution allowed the helicopters to extend their range and time airborne for fluid timeline support.

Another true assault support mission in which aviation and ground element integration is essential is battlefield illumination. After a careful study of coordinating instructions from ground forces, VMGR-252 Det. B can “Bring the sun.”

“Our presence in the sky may be small, but the results are enormous,” said Capt. Aaron M. Gates, an aircraft commander and maintenance officer.

Having the capability to provide countless hours of both overt and covert lighting from parachuting flares not only turns night into day for ground forces, but supports both ground assaults and airborne raids alike.

“Establishing key tactical relationships is crucial here in Afghanistan, especially since many NATO forces have yet to see the flare capability,” Gates said. “Providing such thorough support to our allies extends our dependability not only within Afghanistan, but across many coalition borders as well.”

The operations department delicately balances the support demands from the SPMAGTF-A ACE and the maintenance department. These essential missions can only be flown once the aircraft is prepped and ready for flight.

Maintenance Department

VMGR-252 Det. B’s maintenance department is comprised of multiple sections: maintenance control, where every task and work order is generated, prioritized and supervised; aviation electricians, who maintain all electrical systems on the aircraft; safety and survival technicians, who are responsible for the air-conditioning systems and liquid oxygen (LOX); communication and navigation technicians, who ensure all communications and navigational aids are functioning; and fixed wing engine mechanics, commonly referred to as power lines, who are responsible for the four engines, auxiliary power unit (APU) and fuel systems.

Airframes mechanics have an overall responsibility to ensure the airworthiness of the aircraft as well as the tires, brakes, and hydraulics. The supporting work centers include flight equipment, which makes sure all essential and emergency flight gear is issued, and ground support equipment, which provides all the external gear needed, such as power carts, tow tractors and maintenance stands. Safety concerns and maintenance issues are addressed by Quality Assurance, while the ordnance technicians ensure the aircraft is correctly configured for combat missions.

Conducting maintenance on the KC-130J is an ongoing evolution. As soon as the aircraft returns from flight, maintainers like Lance Cpl. Kristin M. Darnall, a fixed wing engine mechanic, immediately begin inspections to ensure the aircraft is ready for the next mission.
While fueling the aircraft, she inspects the engines and APU for faults, leaks and visual damage. At the same time, airframes mechanic Cpl. Nathaniel P. Simpson starts his walk-around.

“We inspect all major parts of the aircraft,” Simpson said. “We ensure all the systems are serviced and functional, and if we find a discrepancy, we fix it immediately.”

In addition to those Marines, Lance Cpl. Ronald A. Raab, an aviation electrician, and Cpl. Christopher T. Cullen, a communication and navigation technician, are waiting for the crew chief to debrief any discrepancies noted during flight.

Cpl. Julian Rodriguez, a flight equipment technician, stands by to exchange flight gear for the returned aircrew and issue gear to the next aircrew.

This flurry of activity is coordinated by Gunnery Sgt. Rafael Soriano, the maintenance control chief. He ensures the availability of the support equipment provided by Cpl. John A.

Barrerocasallas, a ground support equipment mechanic, and choreographs the efforts of the work centers. These Marines work a schedule usually dictated by flight operations, which means the majority of this work is done at night.

Once all the maintenance is performed and the relevant paperwork is filed, the aircraft is once again turned over to the aircrew. The aircraft commander signs for possession of the bird and the maintenance department prepares for the next flight.

Aircrew

A typical aircrew for the KC-130J Hercules consists of an aircraft commander, co-pilot, crew chief and loadmaster.
The aircraft commander is responsible for the perfect execution of the mission and the safety of the crew. Mission planning is an essential part of the aircraft commander’s day. Assisted by the co-pilot, he must ensure every contingency has been planned for.

In addition to his own planning, the aircraft commander must rely on his crew to perform their assigned tasks.

Crew chiefs, such as Sgt. Jonathan A. Taylor, describe themselves as a “jack of all trades, master of none.”

“Crew chiefs are familiar with every system aboard the aircraft,” Taylor said.

In addition to their responsibilities during flight, crew chiefs act as the conduit to the maintenance department, ensuring all discrepancies are annotated and understood.

In the cargo compartment, the loadmaster prepares to board passengers and cargo. He must ensure the proper placement of each pallet and crate. The aircraft must be loaded evenly, a daunting task when transporting a myriad of necessary cargo.

“Loadmasters take charge of every passenger, their baggage and any supplies they transport, and oversee all loading and unloading of the aircraft,” said Sgt. Wayne L. Bossory, a loadmaster.
Any emergency on the aircraft demands the coordinated efforts and instant reaction of all crew members aboard. Emergency procedures are briefed prior to flight and the crew coordination is rehearsed until all members of the crew share the full trust and confidence of the others. Ever willing to help each other, the aircrews share some tasks to ensure the successful completion of the mission.

Upon landing, the aircraft commander and co-pilot debrief all aspects of the mission to identify areas for improvement while the loadmaster unloads and the crew chief is debriefing maintenance. And then the cycle repeats itself.

Afghanistan
Every pallet transported and every passenger carried is one less that has to traverse the hostile roads of Afghanistan.

The ability to air drop cargo to troops on the ground effectively multiplies the combat power of SPMAGTF-A and ISAF ground forces. Whether home or deployed, this dedicated team continues to operate to the fullest extent of the KC-130J’s capacity.

The Marines of VMGR-252 Det. B are prepared for any assigned task, but this is the task they have trained for. Providing support to the war fighting efforts in Afghanistan has given these Marines a sense of collective pride and satisfaction.

Aircraft commander Capt. James P. Sconfietti said, “I like it in Afghanistan. We are actually exercising the full range of our tactics manual while supporting coalition forces.”

SPMAGTF-A assists Afghan govenor during town hall meeting

2009-01-08T01:58:00.000-08:00

DELARAM, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – A U.S. Marine provides security during a shura (town council meeting) in Delaram, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 6, 2009. U.S. Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), provided security for the local Afghan community, along with Farah Provincial Governor Rohullah Amin and sub-governors of the province who spoke at the shura. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. SPMAGTF-A and ISAF forces support the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in its efforts to provide security and services to the Afghan people.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)
DELARAM, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Farah Provincial Governor Rohullah Amin (center) speaks at a shura (town council meeting) in Delaram, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 6, 2009. Amin and his sub-governors addressed the locals’ concerns with future and ongoing activities, such as upcoming elections and fighting against insurgents in the area. Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan and ISAF forces support the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in its efforts to provide security and services to the Afghan people.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)
DELARAM, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – An Afghan elder rests against a wall as he listens to remarks during a shura (town council meeting) in Delaram, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 6, 2009. Farah Provincial Governor Rohullah Amin and several sub-governors of the province spoke at the shura, addressing the locals’ concerns with future and ongoing activities, such as upcoming elections and fighting against insurgents in the area. Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan and ISAF forces support the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in its efforts to provide security and services to the Afghan people.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)

DELARAM, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan –Afghans express their concerns about matters in the community during a shura (town council meeting) in Delaram, Farah Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 6, 2009. Farah Provincial Governor Rohullah Amin and several sub-governors of the province spoke at the shura, addressing the locals’ concerns with future and ongoing activities, such as upcoming elections and fighting against insurgents in the area. Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan and ISAF forces support the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in its efforts to provide security and services to the Afghan people.
(photo by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)

Afghanistan’s Farah Provincial governor, key Marine Corps leaders meet

2009-01-06T01:18:00.000-08:00

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Key leaders of the Farah province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan met with senior leaders of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan Jan. 3, 2009, to discuss the alliance’s progress and security advancements in the southwestern province.

Col. Duffy W. White, commander of SPMAGTF-A, attended the bi-weekly meeting to introduce himself and make known his support to Farah Provincial Governor Rohullah Amin, during their first meeting together.

Other key military and security force leaders also engaged Amin on such topics as future alliance operations, budgetary expenses and policy-making in the region.

The key leaders discussed several of the positive effects seen in Farah Province, including revised legislation, progress in the logistical support of Afghan forces, increased security patrols, improved commerce and the building of schools and improvements in infrastructure, all of which support ongoing counterinsurgency operations.

“Success is really close,” Amin said of government policies, through an interpreter. “All we have to do is make good decisions.”
T

hough much is going well in Farah, the region is still faced with overcoming challenges. Leaders addressed the dangers children are facing in the area. Amin said he would ask for the support of Afghan elders to promote and protect the schools. Kidnappings, beatings and threats of violence by criminals and insurgents toward police still threaten progress in the area.

Financial issues were a hot topic during the meeting, though Marines are assisting through initiatives such as providing cold-weather clothing for police, as well as instructional training.

In an upcoming visit to the city of Delaram, Marines are excited the governor will have a chance to meet with newly recruited Afghan police cadets. The cadets will then be sent to a police cadet training center where they will be trained by Afghan police instructors, supervised by American law enforcement contractors and assisted by U.S. Marines.

“Where the Marines work as district leaders, there is really good coordination,” said Amin of his experience of working with U.S. Marines.

In other areas, Marines and sailors with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of SPMAGTF-A, are working diligently to clear highway roads of improvised explosive devices and other threats to improve security and infrastructure in the region.

“It’s getting better everyday,” said Amin. “We should continue this. There may be some problems, but we should keep going on. We will continue working well with others.”

Afghanistan deployed Marines deliver FOB building materials

2009-01-05T02:29:00.001-08:00

Story by: Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELARAM, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 delivered more than 95 thousand pounds of building materials to Marines operating in southern Afghanistan Jan. 2.

The delivery was part of a Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan effort to establish combat outposts in areas of Farah Province in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, an area notorious for insurgent attacks.

To speed the process along and minimize the risk of injury to Marines on the ground, HMH-466, part of SPMAGTF-A’s air combat element, delivered all of the material and equipment needed to establish a forward operating base in a manner only a heavy helo squadron could perform.

Rather than tasking Marines to load materials onto trucks and conduct numerous convoy operations to build the outposts, the HMH-466 Marines delivered the “FOBs in a box,” by conducting heavy lift external operations, hooking large containers to CH-53E Super Stallions and flying with the shipment dangling from the aircrafts’ under side.

“We essentially picked up three large shipping containers with everything a unit would need to make a FOB,” said Capt. Molly Cahill, a Super Stallion pilot.

The operation was a heavily organized event, which required several hours of maintenance from helicopter mechanics as well as coordination with all the elements of SPMAGTF-A, from the ground combatants to the Marines in the air.

With the dust-filled environment to which the aircraft are constantly exposed, they often can’t produce the engine power required to lift a 20-thousand-pound shipping container, but the Marines were up to the task.

“Our maintainers got the engines back up to specification power,” said Maj. Stuart Howell, a CH-53E pilot and the unit’s weapons and tactics instructor. “The Marines just worked it back into shape, cleaning out the engines and in some cases replacing them. We couldn’t have accomplished this mission without them.”

With the birds ready to fly, Marines on FOB Delaram prepared the crates to be picked up.
The Super Stallions arrived on Deleram in the early morning, where a Marine Helicopter Support Team was standing by to hook the cargo to the aircraft.
Three hours later, the mission was completed.

“It all went pretty well,” Cahill said. “When we got there the loads were pre-staged and we used another pilot on the ground to help coordinate the whole thing. Once we got to our destination, a Marine popped smoke and we dropped the load; easy, quick in and out operation.”

Cahill said her and all the Marines involved were more than happy to support the mission.

“We were able to give them everything they needed.” She said. “It would have taken them a long time to convoy all the supplies they needed and with external lifts, we don’t have to land the aircraft. If there’s a chance of increased threat, you can get in and out of the zone a lot faster. So we minimized the danger for all Marines involved.”

In addition to the “FOBs in a box,” Cahill and her team delivered generators and more than 900 gallons of fuel.

Pound, Wisconsin-native receives Christmas call from President Bush

2008-12-28T02:22:00.000-08:00

Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

CAMP BARBER, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – How special would you feel if you received a phone call from U.S. President and Commander in Chief George W. Bush on Christmas Eve, while serving in Afghanistan?

Just three days before her 21st birthday, Cpl. Louise M. Nowak, a combat engineer with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, was informed President Bush was waiting on the phone to speak with her.

According to Nowak, it was just like any other day in Afghanistan when someone came up to her and said, “Did you know you are going to be talking to the president?”
Nowak replied, “What? Really!”

Close to 4 p.m., fellow Marine Lance Cpl. Antonio J. Paul was making his way to tell Nowak to report to the command operations center for the phone call.

“I was on my way to tell her, and I was like wow! I wish I could talk to the president, but she is a good-to-go Marine and she deserved it,” Paul said.

Nowak hurried her way to the COC to answer the call.

“I was really excited,” said Nowak. “My heart just started beating really fast. It was a great honor.”

Nowak described the phone call as kind of comical from her point of view, because of the long delay on the secured phone lines. When the commander in chief first spoke to her, she heard him ask, “Is this Cpl. Louise Nowak?” Nowak excitedly waited-out the delay and answered, “Yes sir, can you hear me?” They agreed the phone lines were working well enough.

“We talked a little bit about being over here, and he asked how long I had been over here and I told him it’s been two months now,” Nowak said. “I told him I was very, very honored to be over here, and that I was really happy because it means a lot to me that we are over here helping this country out.”

Bush assured her the troops are doing great things for the people of Afghanistan and even more for the overall security situation of the world.

“He tasked me with one thing and that was to tell everybody God bless and Merry Christmas,” Nowak said with a proud smile.
The conversation only ran about three to four minutes in length, but it was the significance of who was on the phone that made it so special for the Pound, Wis.-native.

Nowak was one of a select few forward-deployed U.S. service members chosen to receive the traditional presidential Christmas Day phone call.

“She was picked based on a couple of reasons,” said Sgt. Maj. Danny Duvall, the battalion sergeant major for CLB-3. “She is an overall good Marine. She is hard working and very mature. It’s the little things that she has done that made her an easy choice.”

Nowak first deployed to Al Asad, Iraq, from Aug. 19, 2007, through March 15, 2008, before voluntarily deploying to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on Nov. 5, 2008. In Iraq, she worked directly with infantry Marines building bunkers and providing other construction support. She also participated in the ‘Lioness Program’ for a month and a half, assisting with the security screening of Iraqi women.

“It’s all been a great experience,” said Nowak.

Operation Santa successfully carried-out in Southern Afghanistan

2008-12-26T21:28:00.000-08:00

Story by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Third Battalion, Eighth Marine Regiment (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 3 successfully conducted Operation Santa early Christmas morning, delivering mail and gifts to Marines and sailors throughout Southern Afghanistan.

Weeks of coordination, planning and preparation went into successfully carrying-out Operation Santa for the troops. The commanding officers of the battalions, Lt. Col. David L. Odom of 3/8, the ground combat element, and Lt. Col. Michael Jernigan of CLB-3, the logistics combat element, each elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan, personally saw to it that all Marines’ and sailors’ mail and Christmas packages received by the battalions’ post office were specially delivered by Christmas morning, boosting morale on the holiday.

Working with families back at Camp Lejeune, N.C., 3/8’s home base, and various charities across America that sent Christmas stockings and care packages, the battalions engineered Operation Santa, so they could provide a little extra Christmas cheer for the Marines and sailors who are forward-deployed in austere locations, Odom said.

The two commanders made a four-hour trip to deliver the packages in two CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466, part of SPMAGTF-A’s air combat element. They traveled approximately 370 miles to make all the deliveries to five forward operating bases manned by their U.S. Marines and sailors.

Included with the 8,600 pounds of mail were 1,400 pounds of Christmas dinners complete with turkeys and pies, along with 750 pounds of holiday donations for the troops by schools, churches, families and other patriotic organizations. The Christmas spirit totaled an impressive 24 pallets-worth, weighing-in at approximately 10,000 pounds.

A couple of weeks prior to the holiday, a generous offering was presented to 3/8 by Patty Lewis of Willow Grove, Penn. She contacted 3/8 through an e-mail on behalf of Moms4RMarines.org and requested to mail gift-filled, Marine Corps digital camouflage patterned Christmas stockings to all of the service members of the battalions. With only a small window of time to work with, Lewis, along with several other organizations, miraculously managed to get all the Christmas donations delivered just in time.

The final packages arrived to Camp Bastion, in the Helmand province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, on Christmas Eve, leaving the Marines with just enough time to sort and load the stockings onto military aircraft for distribution to all of the service members early the next morning.

The holiday-gift stockings arrived filled with boot socks, candy, toiletries, head lamps, pocket-sized games and much more.
“It was wonderful knowing people other than my family care to send us gifts for Christmas,” said Lance Cpl. Jared M. Malimski, a supply clerk with 3/8.

To spread their blessings of generosity and Christmas cheer, the Marines of 3/8 shared their Christmas spirit with the Dutch military forces also stationed at Camp Bastion.

Both Odom and Jernigan extended their warm-hearted thanks to the families and organizations that generously donated, making Operation Santa an overwhelming success.

“I’d like to thank the Salamone family, Patty Smith, Boy Scout Troop 125 and the Slider family of Operation Support our Troops; the Brown family of the Blue Star Mothers of Spartanburg, S.C.; the Jones family of the South Washington County Military Support Group; Patty Lewis of Moms 4R Marines; the Saint Luke United Methodist Church of Hartsville, S.C.; the First Assembly of God in Griffin, Ga.; the Church of Saint Anne’s School in Garden City, N.Y.; the Esquinas family and Cathy Hedrick,” said Odom. “These are just some of the many fine Americans who have generously supported us.”

Commandant makes holiday visit to Marines, sailors in Afghanistan

2008-12-25T22:03:00.000-08:00

Story by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – General James T. Conway, the 34th commandant of the Marine Corps, paid a special holiday visit to his deployed troops Dec. 24, 2008, in the Helmand province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Conway and Sgt. Maj. Carlton W. Kent, the 16th sergeant major of the Marine Corps, visited Camp Barber and Forward Operating Bases Bakwa and Delaram to speak with the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Battalion 3, the ground combat and logistics combat elements of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan.

During his visits, Conway had the opportunity to see three Marines extend their Marine Corps careers.

Re-enlisting Marines Sgt. Walter F. Meredith, Cpl. Eric M. Shaufler and Sgt. Herbert T. Barber III, reaffirmed their oaths with Conway Dec. 23 at Camp Barber.

During their visit, Conway and Kent took the time to talk to the Marines while opening the floor for questions.

“You are living up to the legacy of the Marines that came before you,” Kent told the Marines. “The seventh sergeant major of the Marine Corps, Hank Black, who is nearly 90 years old, still keeps up with the Marines today. He told me to tell you that he was proud of you and everything you do.

“No matter how long you serve, you will always be able to carry the Eagle, the Globe and the Anchor with you,” Kent said, referring to the Corps’ emblem and the spirit of the Marine Corps.

Conway gave the Marines some patriotic and encouraging words during the visit.

“Your country knows that you are over here, and your country supports you in all the good things that you do out here,” he said. “All of us joined the Marine Corps knowing that one day we would probably see some combat because that is what we do. That is our heritage.”
While at FOB Delaram, Conway got the chance to eat lunch with a few Marines from Company K, 3/8.

Lance Cpl. William Maykrants, a rifleman with Co. K, said it was a very exciting experience to eat a meal with the commandant.

“It was really motivating and definitely a morale booster,” he said. “We got to talk about some of the different things that happen out here.”

Before departing, Conway had a few last words for all the Marines.

“We are extremely proud of you for you service and extremely proud to call you United States Marines.”

3/8 provides security in Afghanistan

2008-12-24T06:56:00.000-08:00

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Sean Kunis, a rifleman with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, maintains security during a patrol in the Helmand province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Dec. 21, 2008. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. ( photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)
HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Sean Kunis, a rifleman with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, maintains security during a patrol in the Helmand province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Dec. 21, 2008. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. (photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. James Welch, a rifleman with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, looks through binoculars on the rooftop of an abandoned house in the Helmand province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Dec. 21, 2008. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. (photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Cpl. Josh Reasbeck, a patrol leader with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, maintains security on the rooftop of an abandoned house in the Helmand province of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Dec. 21, 2008. 3/8 is the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan. (photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau)