The Ivy Leaf, volume 1, issue 5

United States Division - North

Volume 1, Issue 5 Established in 1917 to honor those who serve December 3, 2010

Steadfast and Loyal
Warrior

Spc. Andrew Ingram
USD-N Public Affairs
LongKnife

CONTINGENCY OPERAT-
ING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq
– U.S. Forces-Iraq Deputy
Commanding General of Op-
erations Lt. Gen. Robert W.

Ironhorse
Cone presented awards for
valorous actions to Soldiers of
Devil

2nd Platoon, Company B, 1st
Battalion, 27th Infantry Regi-
ment, 2nd Advise and Assist
Brigade, 25th Infantry Divi-
sion, during a ceremony at
Fit for Any Test

Contingency Operating Base

Fit for Any Test
Speicher, Iraq Dec. 2.
Sgt. 1st Class Kristopher
Verrett, platoon sergeant, 2nd
Platoon, Company B, deployed
in support of Operation New
Dawn, was awarded the Silver
Star Medal for his actions dur-
ing an enemy ambush, Sept. 7,
Ironhorse

in northern Iraq.

Devil
Eighteen of Verrett’s “Wolf-
hound” Soldiers of Company
B also received awards during
the ceremony for their valor-
LongKnife

ous actions that day.
Cone commended the Sol-
Steadfast and Loyal

diers for their character, disci-
pline and fortitude during the
attack.
“Valor is all about charac-
ter,” said Cone. “In an instant
Warrior

a challenge comes – in an in- U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Shawn Miller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
U.S. Forces-Iraq Deputy Commanding General of Operations Lt. Gen. Robert W. Cone presents the Silver
stant, a horrible thing happens,
Star Medal to Sgt. 1st Class Kristopher Verrett, platoon sergeant, 2nd Platoon, Company B, 1st Battalion,
and either valor is there or it is 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, during a ceremony at Con-
tingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, Dec. 2, 2010. Verrett, who earned the medal for valorous actions
See MEDALS, pg. 4 during an enemy attack on his platoon Sept. 7, said he believes his Soldiers are far more deserving of the
award, and deserve the credit for their actions on that day.

The Ivy Leaf December 3, 2010

ho rse
I ron ng
tro
Pfc. Brian Thacker, a Coal strate his physical and mental

S Grove, Ohio-native and cav-
alry scout with Troop C, 2nd
Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regi-
stamina required to accomplish
the mission after completing
two days of security at Com-
ment, 2nd Advise and Assist bined Check Point Three and
Brigade, 25th Infantry six hours of mounted patrols.
Division, exhausted Thacker’s dedication
from a long day of to duty and his sense
patrols, worked of responsibility
tirelessly to fix to maintain his
his M1127 equipment is
Stryker a testament
Reconnais- to the pride
sance Vehicle and discipline he
Nov. 15, 2010. shows to his Platoon
His vehicle was and Troop. His never-
not mission capable due quit attitude makes him a
to a mechanical fault that worthy Ironhorse Strong: Sol-
occurred just prior to the end of dier of the Week.
the day’s mission.
Thacker found the fault and
brought the vehicle to a fully
Mission Capable status for the
U.S. Army photo
following morning’s assump-
Pfc. Brian Thacker, cavalry scout, Troop C, 2nd Squadron, 14th Cav-
alry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division,
tion of the Squadron’s Quick
is the “Ironhorse Strong: Soldier of the Week” for the week of Nov. 28, Reaction Force mission by the
2010 for his dedication to his Platoon, Troop, equipment, and the mis- platoon.
sion. His can-do attitude and dedication brought a mission-essential Thacker’s five hours of trou-
piece of equipment back to a Mission Capable status in a timely man-
ner Nov. 15, 2010.
bleshooting and repairs demon-

‘Garry Owen’ Soldiers teach ‘Diablos’ conduct room Newest IA Division builds Soldiers enjoy Thanksgiving
Iraqi soldiers TSE clearing drill with IA partnership with oldest U.S. on small outpost
Army Division
Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8

THE Ivy Leaf Task Force Ironhorse
Commanding General – Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins
The Ivy Leaf is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. Command Sergeant Major – Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey
Army. Contents of The Ivy Leaf are not necessarily official views
of, or endorsed by the U.S. Government, Department of the Army
or the 4th Infantry Division. The appearance of advertising in this Task Force Ironhorse Public Affairs
publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage TF Ironhorse PAO – Lt. Col. Steve Wollman
without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, TF Ironhorse PA NCOIC – Master Sgt. Carmen Daugherty-Glaze
marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other The Ivy Leaf Editor – Spc. Andrew Ingram
non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. All editorial The Ivy Leaf Layout & Design – Spc. Thomas Bixler
content of The Ivy Leaf is prepared, edited, provided and approved
by the United States Division-North Public Affairs Office.
1st Advise and 2nd Advise and
Do you have a story to share? The Ivy Leaf welcomes submissions Assist Task Force Assist Brigade
from readers. Send to the USD-N PAO at usdnpao@usdn4id.army. 1st Infantry Division 25th Infantry Division
mil. The Ivy Leaf reserves the right to edit submissions selected
for the paper. For further information on deadlines, questions or 4th Advise and
comments, email USD-N PAO or call DSN 849-0089. Assist Brigade
1st Cavalry Division

2


Taking care of Soldiers, taking care of the mission
Command Sgt. Maj. Keith Moore sum of all the individual efforts put forth by the right thing when people are not look-
Division Special Troops Battalion the men and women working here at COB ing, and for the most part, our Soldiers
4th Inf. Div., U.S. Division-North Speicher. I want our Soldiers and troops to want to do the right thing. We as leaders
walk away from this experience with the must allow our Soldiers to set the example.
As we embark upon our second month realization that their senior leaders appreci- We must put the ownership and the respon-
of this deployment, in support of Opera- ate what they do on a daily basis. sibility back in the troops’ hands.
tion New Dawn, I hope all is well with you, This organization is made of successful We instill a considerable amount of trust
your loved ones, and your Soldiers. I also Soldiers who care about every one of us and responsibility in our troops, because
hope that you enjoy your job as much as I and care about our well-being. We as lead- we ask so much of them on a daily basis.
love mine. ers need to make an effort and invest time Our Soldiers, comprising less than one per-
As
combat
the
ser-
“Soldiers, by giving back to the Soldiers what they cent of the American population, serve in
give to us on a daily basis. defense of this grateful nation, answering
vice support don’t give Our Soldiers are doing a good job. The the call even in harm’s way. At a minimum,
unit deployed men and women in uniform here are doing we as leaders can ask our troops to be re-
to sustain Task safety and what they are supposed to be doing. They sponsible and allow them to make deci-
Force Iron-
horse and the discipline a want to serve their country and represent
this great organization that we call the 4th
sions on their own. And for the most part,
99 percent of our force will appreciate that
U.S. Division-
North Head-
day off.” Inf. Div.
At the same time, we as leaders cannot
initiative and make the right choices.
As we approach the holiday season,
quarters, the allow our troops to fall into a pattern of there are those who will be away from their
4th Infantry Division Special Troops Bat- complacency. Everyone needs to be aware Families for the very first time. It is impor-
talion is committed to ensuring the quality of their surroundings, maintaining situ- tant to recognize these troops and keep in
of life for U.S. forces on Contingency Op- ational awareness at all times and ensuring mind that they are dealing with their own
erating Base Speicher. overwatch. set of emotions and difficulties as they
As the senior enlisted leader for approx- Soldiers, don’t give safety and discipline adjust to being deployed. As leaders we
imately 900 Soldiers of the “Steadfast” a day off. Don’t forget your battle buddies, should offer our Soldiers the “right hand of
Battalion, I am responsible for overseeing and hold yourself accountable to what you fellowship,” taking time to eat dinner with
the dining facilities, billeting, mail and mo- know is right. It has always been my motto, them and acknowledge the fact that the ser-
rale for our men and women operating on nine out of ten times, if anything bad hap- vice they provide is invaluable to this orga-
this COB. pens, you have to ask whether safety or dis- nization and our nation.
It is important to realize and acknowl- cipline were given a day off. From private to general, it is our obliga-
edge that the success of our mission is the As leaders, we expect our troops to do tion and responsibility to take care of one
another. What we as service members ac-
complish is not about the individual per-
son, it never has been – it is about what we
do on a daily basis to look after each other
and make this organization stronger. Think
about what you can do personally each day
to help one another, look after your battle
buddy and team.
Soldiers, take advantage of this oppor-
tunity and the many services available to
us here and use this deployment to better
yourselves and this great organization that
we support. Make the best of your time
which is afforded to you to learn and build
upon these experiences that you will carry
with you for the rest of your lives.
Leaders, put your arm around your
troops and let them know that they are
part of an extended Family, the U.S. Army
Family, and an invaluable member of our
U.S. Army photo by Master Sgt. Carmen Daugherty-Glaze, USD-N PAO team. Soldiers are our most precious com-
The 4th Inf. Div. Special Troops Battalion Command Sgt. Major Keith Moore discusses range modity and without them we would not be
safety with Spc. John Rohrback, Base Reaction Force, Company D, 4th Inf. Div. Special Troops
Battalion, while inspecting weapon’s training of the Ugandan security team at Contingency where we are today.
Operating Base Speicher, Iraq Dec. 3, 2010. Fit For Any Test! Steadfast 9

3

Continued from MEDALS, pg. 1

not. The fact of the matter is for himself after receiving a direct
the people in this platoon it was order.
there.” “I was humbled, shocked
During a mission in support and proud when I got on the
of Commando Battalion, 1st ground in Tuz that day,” said
Brigade, 4th Iraqi Army Divi- Lt. Col. Donald Brown, com-
sion, Verrett’s platoon came mander, 1st Bn., 27th Inf. Regt.
under small-arms fire from an “When I heard about what Sgt.
Iraqi soldier. 1st Class Verrett had done in
Simultaneously, the platoon spite of his wounds – how he
was ambushed, coming under had refused evacuation – when
fire from enemy forces at a sec- I heard what all of these men
ondary location. had done, I knew that nothing
During the initial barrage, 11 could break these men or this
U.S. Soldiers were wounded, company.”
U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Shawn Miller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
including Verrett. Despite his actions, Verrett,
Despite a 7.62mm round a native of Newberry, Mich. Leaders of U.S. Forces-Iraq presented Soldiers assigned to Company
B, 1st Battalion, “Wolfhounds,” 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise
lodged in his shoulder, Verrett said he believes his Soldiers and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, from Schofield Barracks,
continued to lead his platoon, deserve more honor than he. awards for valorous actions in the face of enemy contact, during a
repeatedly putting himself in “I want to make it clear, ceremony at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, Dec. 2, 2010.
the line of fire to gain a full I am not deserving of any- The Wolfhound Soldiers of 2nd Platoon earned the medals for actions
taken during an enemy ambush in northern Iraq, Sept. 7. The Soldiers
accountability of his Soldiers thing,” said Verrett. “All of of 1st Bn., 27th Inf. Regt. are deployed as part of U.S. Division-North in
and prevent U.S. Soldiers and these young Soldiers deserve support of Operation New Dawn.
Iraqi Forces from firing on each so much more credit. Sure they
other. received awards today, but it is Batule, from Schofield Bar- people react until a situation
While evacuating the area, not nearly enough.” racks, Hawaii and Pfc. Chris- happens, and I could not have
Verrett ignored his injuries and “I could not serve with a bet- topher Horton, a combat medic asked for better,” he said. “All
assisted in the movement of 10 ter bunch of guys,” he said. “I from Zypher Hills, Fla. of our guys did a spectacular
other wounded Soldiers into do not believe anybody could.” The Army Commendation job, and we are getting recog-
medical evacuation helicopters, During the attack, two 2nd Medal was presented to 1st Lt. nized for something that was
only seeking medical attention Platoon Soldiers, Staff Sgt. David Tyson, from Savannah, really a platoon effort.”
Philip Jenkins and Pfc. James Ga.; Staff Sgt. Destry McMas- Command Sgt Maj. Alan
McClamorock, both infantry- ter, a transportation specialist Higgs, senior enlisted leader,
men, made the ultimate sacri- from Dexter, N.M.; Sgt Adam 1st. Bn., 27th Inf. Regt., said
fice in service to their nation. Costello, a combat medic from solid training and good leader-
“To the guys that did not North Beach, Mass.; Cpl. Josh- ship is what brought his Sol-
make it – I love you,” said Pfc. ua Castleman, an infantryman diers though the ordeal.
Christopher Dunham an infan- from Bellingham, Wash.; Cpl. “It is unfortunate this event
tryman, from Houston, who Tyler Royal, an infantryman happened, particularly in the
received the Army Commenda- from Maple Grove, Minn.; Spc. progress of trying to advise and
tion Medal for his actions dur- Kevin Higgins, an infantryman assist our Iraqi counterparts,
ing the attack. “You never know from Sulphur, Okla.; Spc. Der- but I could not be prouder of
U.S. Forces-Iraq Deputy Com-
manding General of Operations
how much somebody means to rick Kozlowski, an infantryman the way 2nd Platoon, Company
Lt. Gen. Robert W. Cone con- you until they are gone.” from Staten Island, N.Y.; Spc. B reacted to the attack,” Higgs
gratulates Pfc. Ryan Jones, an The Bronze Star Medal with Jeremy Tonkin an infantryman said. “It is one thing to know
infantryman assigned to Com- valor device was presented from Morgan Hill, Calif.; Pfc. where your enemy is at and to
pany B, 1st Battalion, 27th In-
fantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and
to Capt. Christopher Defiori, Jose Nieves, an infantryman fight him, but it is another thing
Assist Brigade 25th Infantry Divi- commander, Company B, from from El Paso, Texas; Pfc. Mark not to expect the enemy and to
sion before presenting him with Houston; Sgt. Hairom Abra- Ocaba, an infantryman from react with courageousness and
a Bronze Star Medal with valor ham, infantryman, from Micro- Richtown Park, Minn.; and Pfc. determination.
device during an awards cer-
emony at Contingency Operating
nesia; Spc. Zachary Gardner, Bryan Ward an infantryman “The actions of this platoon
Base Speicher, Iraq, Dec. 2, 2010. infantryman, from Aurora, Ill.; from Duncanville, Texas. and the decisions they made
Cone presented the award to and Pfc. Ryan Jones, infantry- Costello, a veteran of mul- that day definitely prevented
Jones for actions taken when his man, from West Alexandria, tiple deployments, said he additional casualties from oc-
platoon was ambushed Sept. 7.
Jones said he believes all of his
Ohio. believed the entire platoon de- curring, and I think they are he-
platoon mates are just as deserv- The Army Commendation served recognition for their ef- roes, everyone of them.”
ing of recognition for their efforts Medal with valor device was forts Sept. 7.
that day. presented to 1st Lt. Andrew “You never know how
4


‘Garry Owen’ Soldiers crime scene investigations.
The Iraqi soldiers learned the
contaminated.
“The classroom part of the

1st Cavalry Division
proper way to collect evidence training was the first step to
teach Iraqi soldiers TSE and the importance of gathering
information at a crime scene to
learning how to process a crime
scene,” said Pvt. Hassim Hasan,
prosecute criminals and violent an infantryman assigned to 12th
Pfc. Angel Washington extremists. Bde., 2nd IA Division, from Na-
4th AAB Public Affairs “After this training, you will jaf, Iraq. “What I learned here, I
1st Cav. Div., USD-N be able to go out on real mis- will be able to apply to my mis-
sions and actually collect evi- sions.”
JOINT SECURITY STATION dence,” said Carraway, a native First Lt. Jeff Lalka, platoon
INDIA, Iraq – Twenty-three sol- of Pittsburg, Penn. “The evi- leader, Company B, 2nd Bn.,
diers assigned to 12th Brigade, dence you collect will be sent to 7th Cav. Reg., said the training
2nd Iraqi Army Division, took a crime lab, presented to an Iraqi is important to Iraq’s future, be-
Pvt. Hassim Hasan, an infantry-
notes in the classroom and par- judge and will later be used to cause Rule of Law prosecutions
man assigned to the 12th Bri-
gade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division, ticipated in hands-on exercises convict actual terrorists.” require evidence at crime scenes
searches for evidence during to learn how to “put away the Following the informational to be carefully gathered and pre-
tactical site exploitation training bad guys” during a tactical site part of the training, U.S. Sol- sented to an Iraqi judge.
Nov. 23, 2010. Hasan, a native of
exploitation class at Combat diers mentored their Iraqi coun- “We are here to help the IA
Najaf, Iraq took part in the class
taught by U.S. Soldiers assigned Outpost Fortitude, Nov. 23. terparts, helping the Iraqi sol- become more familiar with their
to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 7th James Carraway, a law en- diers apply the information they judicial system and learn how to
Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise forcement professional with the had learned in the classroom collect evidence to be presented
and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry
Military Professional Resource through practical exercises to to a court,” said Lalka, a native
Division, to learn the proper way
to collect evidence to be pre- Institute, and U.S. Soldiers as- become familiar with the TSE of Buffalo, N.Y. “By ensur-
sented in a court of law. “What I signed to Company B, 2nd Bat- process. ing the Iraqi soldiers know the
learned here, I will be able to ap- talion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, The U.S. and Iraqi soldiers proper ways and processes to
ply to my missions,” said Hasan.
4th Advise and Assist Brigade, practiced searching crime obtain evidence, we are helping
Soldiers of 2nd Bn., 7th Cav. Reg.
are deployed to northern Iraq as 1st Cavalry Division, led the scenes together, collecting evi- soldiers to become proficient in
a part of U.S. Division-North in TSE class to teach the Iraqi sol- dence, cataloging the evidence, completing the task of keeping
support of Operation New Dawn. diers the proper procedures for and ensuring the site was not people off the streets that belong
behind bars.”
After completing the train-
ing the U.S. Soldiers tested their
Iraqi counterparts by setting up
a mock crime scene for the IA
soldiers to search without the in-
structors help.
Searching high and low, tak-
ing pictures and being cautious
of improvised explosive devices
are some of the techniques the
IA soldiers quickly learned in
gathering evidence to be pre-
sented in a court of law.
“They picked up in one day’s
time frame everything that we
needed to teach them,” said Staff
Sgt. Jay Schroeder, squad lead-
er, Company B, from Sherman,
Texas. “They are very willing to
learn and I can see they want to
take part in learning more about
their judicial system.”
U.S. Army photos by Pfc. Angel Washington, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N Soldiers of 2nd Bn. 7th Cav.
Soldiers assigned to 12th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division, search for evidence during tactical site exploi- Reg. are deployed to northern
tation training Nov. 23, 2010. U.S. Soldiers assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, Iraq as a part of U.S. Division-
4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, taught Iraqi soldiers the proper way to search and
collect evidence at crime scenes in order to prosecute criminals. Soldiers of 2nd Bn. 7th Cav. Reg. are
North in support of Operation
deployed to northern Iraq as a part of U.S. Division-North in support of Operation New Dawn. New Dawn.

5


Urban Operations training, ‘Diablos’
conduct room clearing drill with 49th IA
Spc. Kandi Huggins nating with IA troops learning nearby abandoned buildings. and non-verbal communica-
1st AATF Public Affairs procedures for entering a build- “This will make the training tion to signal each individual’s
1st Inf. Div., USD-N ing and clearing a room. more realistic,” said Staff Sgt. readiness for movement, the
The training exercise is de- Robert Drummond, infantry- positioning of each Soldier as
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- signed to mimic the rapid de- man, Company D, 1st Bn., 14th they enter a room, and the im-
ING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq cisions and the quick orders a Inf. Reg. “Using actual build- portance of muzzle awareness
– The “Diablos” of Company squad or platoon would have ings will give them things they as well as maintaining security
D, 1st Battalion, 14th Infan- to make during an actual room can’t get from a ‘glass house’ inside and outside the building
try Regiment, 2nd Advise and clearing. (drill), such as doors, windows, and rooms.
Assist Brigade, 25th Infan- “It is important for the Com- walls, which will allow them to The Diablos have been in-
try Division, from Schofield mandos to learn how to effec- learn how to effectively make structing IA soldiers on room
Barracks, Hawaii, conducted tively enter a building and clear quick decisions because in an clearing procedures at least
Military Operations in Urban a room,” said Sgt. Maj. Zreean, actual clearing, the situation is three times a week for the last
Terrain training with the Com- senior enlisted leader of the ever-changing.” month.
mando Company, 49th Brigade, 49th IA Bde. “Because they are During glass house drills, At the conclusion of their
12th Iraqi Army Division, at always conducting raids and tape is used to represent the training, the IA soldiers will
Contingency Operating Site searching buildings, this train- walls of a building. This allows conduct a live-fire exercise
Warrior, Iraq, Nov. 25. ing will allow them to be more instructors to view and evaluate implementing their training and
The Soldiers from Company organized and faster.” training more effectively. demonstrating their capabilities
D instructed the Commando Separated into two groups, The squads were instructed to effectively enter a building
soldiers throughout a month- the IA soldiers conducted their on how to stack on the outside and clear a room.
long training program, culmi- room clearing exercise using wall near the door, use verbal

Photo by Spc. Kandi Huggins, 1st AATF PAO, 1st Inf. Div., USD-N
Iraqi Army soldiers of the 49th Brigade, 12th Iraqi Army Division, stack outside a wall of an abandoned building during room clearing training at
Contingency Operating Site Warrior, Nov. 25, 2010. Supervised by noncommissioned officers of Company D, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regi-
ment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, the Iraqi soldiers practiced verbal and non-verbal
communication between squads as they moved into the rooms.

6


Newest Iraqi Army Division Builds Partnership
with the Oldest U.S. Army Brigade
Spc. Kandi Huggins Col. Eric Welsh, command-
1st AATF Public Affairs er, 1st AATF, 1st Inf. Div.,
1st Inf. Div., USD-N concluded the luncheon by
presenting Sameer and his staff
CONTINGENCY OPER- with brigade coins.
ATING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq Welsh used the opportunity
– The 12th Iraqi Army Divi- as a chance to explain the histo-
sion, under the command of ry of the Army’s oldest brigade.
staff Brig. Gen. Sameer Abdul “While this is just a piece
Kareen, hosted a partnership of metal that can be made by
luncheon with the “Devil” anyone, the significance of this
Brigade, 1st Advise and Assist coin is what is important,” said
Task Force, 1st Infantry Divi- Welsh. “This signifies the Devil
sion, from Fort Riley, Kan., at Brigade as being the Army’s
the 12th Iraqi Army Division oldest continually active unit,
Headquarters on Nov. 22. and a unit that has never re-
The luncheon provided an treated from any challenge in
opportunity for the two units to its long history.” Col. Eric Welsh, commander, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st
strengthen the relationship built He explained the Devil Bri- Infantry Division, from Fort Riley, Kan., presented staff Brig. Gen.Sa-
between the 12th IA Div.and its gade earned its namesake in the meer Abdul Kareen, commander of the 12th Iraqi Army Division, with
American partner-unit. a “Devil” Brigade coin after a luncheon between the two staffs at the
trenches of World War I, when 12th IA Div. Headquarters, Kirkuk, Iraq Nov. 22, 2010.
From a historical perspec- German soldiers witnessed the
tive, the units’ partnership is brigade’s continuous attacks American Soldiers continued dured sacrifices to uphold the
somewhat ironic. despite being hit with poison to advance. Upon hearing this, freedoms we believe in, and I
The 12th IA Div. is the new- gas, artillery and machinegun the 1st BCT, 1st Inf. Div. soon present this to you as a small
est division in the Iraqi Army; fire. adopted the moniker for its own token of the sacrifices your
while the Devil Brigade is the The Germans believed that as a source of pride. people have endured.”
oldest continually active unit in only devils could survive in “Today,” said Welsh, “both “There is no mission too dif-
the U.S. Army. such an environment as the Americans and Iraqis have en- ficult, and there is no sacrifice
too great,” concluded Welsh,
referencing the motto of the 1st
Inf. Div.
In addition to providing a
chance to talk about unit histo-
ry, the luncheon also gave both
staffs the opportunity to meet
each other and discuss ways to
improve their respective units.
“I think this is a great op-
portunity to meet in an infor-
mal setting and exchange ideas
about how to be better staff
officers,” said Maj. Danny Ca-
zier, who advises the Iraqi pub-
lic relations and information
operations officers of the 12th
IA Div.
“Sometimes the best ideas
don’t get talked about inside
Photos by Spc. Kandi Huggins, 1st AATF PAO, 1st Inf. Div., USD-N
an office,” he said. “Often it’s
Staff Brig. Gen. Sameer Abdul Kareen, left, hosts a luncheon for the command and staff of 1st Advise and when we are sitting down at
Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, at the 12th Iraqi Army Division Headquarters, Kirkuk, Iraq on Nov. lunch or drinking chai.”
22, 2010. The luncheon provided an informal setting for the commanders and staffs to meet and discuss
ways to continue the excellent relations and cooperation between the units.

7


Soldiers enjoy Thanksgiving on small outpost

25th Infantry Division
Sgt. Shawn Miller Lt. Michael Gardner said of his what the holiday means. them an overview of the holiday
109th MPAD men. “I think that Thanksgiving and its history.
USD-N PAO Gardner, also on his first here is truly unique because “Other than the food, I hope
deployment, serving as a pla- of the facility we are at,” said they had the opportunity to get
SAMARRA, Iraq – Dozens sat toon leader, said that living and Dieffenbach, a native of Kan- a good feel for what Thanksgiv-
at the decorated tables, enjoying working in the confined space sas City, Mo. “It’s an Iraqi-U.S. ing means to the American Sol-
plates piled high with freshly really allows the Soldiers to base that’s all coming together dier,” Gardner remarked.
cooked turkey, potatoes and all build camaraderie. for a unique American holiday.” That afternoon, the Soldiers
the traditional side dishes and Holiday care packages from The ISF and local officials continued their holiday by re-
desserts. Were it not for the home are shared between them, have welcomed the American laxing or making calls to loved
barbed wire topped blast walls he added, helping ease any Soldiers to celebrate Ramadan ones a few time zones back in
and weapons at the feet of the stress. and Eid with them in the past, so the United States, who would be
Soldiers on a remote outpost “This is probably one of the inviting the Iraqis to Thanksgiv- just beginning their Thanksgiv-
in Iraq, this would be a normal best Thanksgivings I’ve been ing dinner was a gesture of that ing.
Thanksgiving scene. involved with,” said Gardner, a friendship, Dieffenbach said. Of the three Thanksgivings
Soldiers of Battery A, 2nd native of Savage, Minn. “We work with these guys al- he spent in Iraq, Dieffenbach
Battalion, 11th Field Artillery The battery commander, most on a daily basis,” Gardner said that this one will be espe-
Regiment, received a holiday Capt. Brian Dieffenbach, said. “This is another opportu- cially memorable.
treat at the Samarra Joint Coor- echoed the sentiment and said nity for us to show them one of “This will probably be the
dination Center as their battal- that this year, he is thankful for our traditions.” most special for me, because it’s
ion and brigade leaders from the being able to spend the time Though they did not work off with the guys I’m responsible
2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, with his Soldiers. dinner with a post-dinner game for and the guys I lead on a daily
25th Infantry Division, from “Being with your Family is of football, the Iraqis were af- basis,” he said proudly. “I get to
Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, probably the best tradition, and forded a chance to experience sit there and tell them ‘Thank
paid a visit Nov. 25 to serve a here the best Family we have to a small part of the Thanksgiv- you.’”
Thanksgiving feast. offer is the guys we’re serving ing rituals, as U.S. leaders gave
“It feels like Thanksgiving with,” Dieffenbach said.
here; it really does,” said Spc. The smell of roast turkey,
Omar Franco, a resident of stuffing and baked apple pie
Maui, Hawaii. “It means a lot lured Soldiers toward the small
to have the sergeants major and cafeteria as Dieffenbach and
the higher headquarters officers other senior leadership wel-
come out here and show their comed them in to take part in
appreciation for the Soldiers.” the feast.
Franco, on his first deploy- Holiday meals have come a
ment, said that he is adjusting long way since the cold turkey
being away from home as best patties and powdered potatoes
as possible during the holiday of previous deployments, said
season. Dieffenbach, now on his third
“It’s a little bit different. tour to Iraq.
There’s no Family around, but There was even a bit of a sur-
I have my platoon that I work prise for Franco.
with every day,” he explained. “I eat pumpkin pie every year
As the Soldiers enjoyed a re- for Thanksgiving back home,”
laxed morning, a few took the he exclaimed as he found his
opportunity to break out a foot- favorite annual dessert. “I made
ball and play a game of catch sure to grab a slice.”
as a way of preserving holiday In the true spirit of Thanks-
traditions. For the Soldiers on giving, being thankful for one’s
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Shawn Miller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
this outpost, barely larger than blessings, U.S. leaders decided Spc. Omar Franco, from Maui, Hawaii, left, and Pfc. Chad Sirilla, from
a football field itself, the time to create new customs by ex- Canton, Ohio, enjoy a freshly prepared Thanksgiving dinner with all
off spent with friends was a tending an invitation to their the trimmings, Nov. 25, 2010, at the Samarra Joint Coordination Center
welcome respite from the daily local Iraqi Security Forces in Samarra, Iraq. Franco and Sirilla, part of the Soldiers of Battery A,
2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Bri-
tasks of conducting operations. counterparts and government gade, 25th Infantry Division, from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, inhabit
“They really appreciate the officials to take part in the cel- the small outpost, providing support operations to local Iraqi Security
bond between the Soldiers,” 2nd ebration and introduce them to Forces in support of U.S. Division-North and Operation New Dawn.

8

!

Composite Risk Composite
Risk Management is
“Get in the habit of assessing
the situation, looking at
Management, the Army and U.S.
Division-North’s primary your actions, identifying
decision-making process for hazards and mitigating
more than a identifying hazards and controlling
risks across our missions, functions, the risks. A hands-on
mindset
operations and activities.
Every one of our service members, command- approach to safety
ers, leaders and Department of Defense civilian creates a culture
Mr. Paul Burns employees are required to apply CRM in their decision
Safety Officer making process, balancing risk versus cost, to preserve lives that demands
U.S. Division-North and materiel in support of our mission.
We achieve this mindset through timely and relevant training,
the rules be
building knowledge and instilling core values. It begins with the followed...”
individual and carries over to our Troop Leading Procedures and day-to-day
operations.
Deployed in support of a directed mission, we do not have the luxury of risking
our safety. We must take proper precautions when performing any task – it saves time,
resources and manpower; directly contributing to the successful accomplishment of our
mission.
When you see an incorrect action, correct it. Get in the habit of assessing the situation, looking at
your actions, identifying hazards and mitigating the risks. A hands-on approach to safety creates a
culture that demands the rules be followed and creates an environment where safety is the valued standard.
Everyone plays an important role as a member of this team. An accident in a forward environment decreases
the force strength of a unit. Something as simple as a pick-up game of football, not wearing a seat belt or adhering
to the prescribed dress code can seriously degrade the readiness of a section or a unit, requiring additional manpower
and resources to compensate for an unnecessary loss.
Every person here has a responsibility to ensure a safe environment for ourselves and each other. We must set the standard
by being proactive about the safety and well-being of everyone. We must enforce the standard, knowing that consequences for
unsafe acts are not a matter of chance, but time. Unsafe acts will eventually result in an accident where someone will get hurt or killed.
Our actions establish a climate that spreads, becomes the norm and is self-sustaining. A safer environment will prevent more than just an
injured Soldier – it saves leaders’ time, Families grief and Soldiers’ lives.
For more information on Composite Risk Management contact my office at radford.mccauley@usdn4id.army.mil or
timothy.r.cline@usdn4id.army.mil and visit the U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center Web site at https://safety.army.mil.

1 – Identify Hazards: A hazard is a condition with the potential
to cause injury, illness, or death of personnel; damage to or loss of
equipment or property; or mission degradation.
1 Identify
Hazards 2 Assess
Hazards

2 – Assess Hazards: Hazards are assessed and risk is assigned in “Assessment”
terms of probability and severity of adverse impact of an event/oc-
“Management”
currence. See RISK ASSESSMENT MATRIX (FM 5-19, 1-22, Fig. 1-4)
3 – Develop Controls & Make Decisions: Leaders develop con- Develop
trols that either eliminate the hazard or reduce the risk (probability
and/or severity) of a hazardous incident occurring, then make risk
5 Supervise
& Evaluate 3 Controls & Make
Decisions
decisions by determining what is an acceptable level of risk.
4 – Implement Controls: Leaders and staffs ensure that controls
are integrated into SOPs, written and verbal orders, mission brief-
ings, and staff estimates. The critical check for this step is to ensure
the controls are converted into clear and simple execution orders.
5 – Supervise & Evaluate: Supervision is a form of control mea-
4 Implement
Controls
sure. It ensures subordinates understand how, when and where
controls are implemented. It also ensures that controls are imple- A flow chart of the CRM process as outlined in FM 5-19, consisting
mented, monitored, and remain in place. of two phases: “Assessment” and “Management” (divided here by a
dashed line); and five steps listed clockwise starting with “Identify
Hazards” and ending with “Supervise & Evaluate.”

9


the

Purrfect Angelz
The Purrfect Angelz perform their opening act for Soldiers deployed
in support of Operation New Dawn at Contingency Operating Base
Speicher, Iraq, Nov. 23, 2010. The Purrfect Angelz have been perform-

visit COB Speicher
ing for U.S. military personnel deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan since
2005.

The Purrfect Angelz: (from left) Lindsay, Paige, Camille, Giselle, and
Amber, render a salute to an audience of Soldiers deployed in support
of Operation New Dawn, after their opening act at contingency operat-
ing base Speicher, Iraq, Nov. 23, 2010. The Purrfect Angelz are com-
prised of actresses and dancers who volunteer to leave their normal
careers for weeks at a time to perform for deployed service men and
women. The Angelz have been performing for U.S. military personnel
deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan since 2005.

Purrfect Angelz Member, Giselle, Purrfect Angelz member, Lind-
performs a solo act for Soldiers say, performs a song and dance
deployed in support of Operation routine for Soldiers deployed
New Dawn at Contingency Oper- in support of Operation New
ating Base Speicher, Iraq, Nov. Dawn at Contingency Operating
23, 2010. At 22-years-old, the La Base, Speicher, Iraq, Nov. 23,
Mirada, California native, is the 2010. Lindsay, a Scottsdale, Ari-
youngest member of the Purrfect zona native, has been performing U.S. Army photos by Spc. David Strayer, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
Angelz. This is her first tour over- since the age of five. Her enter-
Purrfect Angelz member, Amber, tap-dances for Soldiers deployed
seas to entertain deployed U.S. tainment career spans from col-
in support of Operation New Dawn at Contingency Operating Base
service members. lege dancing and professional
Speicher, Iraq, Nov. 23, 2010. Amber, a Dallas, Texas native, attended
basketball cheerleading, to major
Southern Methodist University as a pre-med major. She also danced
motion picture acting. Lindsay
as a part of Toby Keith’s performance during the Country Music
closed the Purrfect Angelz per-
Awards. This is Amber’s second trip to Iraq to perform for deployed
formance with the song “Proud
service members.
to be an American.”

10


Ft Carson, Colorado

Web site provides PCS support
Kerstin Lopez Turning to other military spouses and it’s beneficial in three major ways – to
Mountaineer staff searching the Internet for information ease a major stressor, solve the issue of
about their soon-to-be new duty station at unfamiliarity and reduce transition time.
A local military spouse has found a Fort Carson helped, but didn’t give Haynie “I found my niche and it was PCSing.
way to help the Army community during all the answers she was seeking. The These support groups for the most part
one of the most stressful times in military information was fragmented and strewn cross-promote and it is an absolute won-
life – moving. throughout multiple Web sites, she said. derful system. It is empowering,” Haynie
Susanna Haynie, a military spouse “As I searched the Web I noticed that said.
since 1993, began an interactive Web site I was not the only one asking seemingly Recently, something big came along
to help other military spouses with some similar questions – Where are the great that catapulted the relocation Web site
of the common questions they encounter schools? Where are the safe neighbor- into the minds of many people. The Army
when making a permanent change of sta- hoods? Who had tips about PCSing?” Public Affairs Online and Social Media
tion move. And so came the idea and launch of Division had been looking for an example
While stationed at Fort Lewis, Wash., Haynie’s innovative and interactive Web of how military spouses were using the
in 2009, Haynie realized a permanent- site. Internet, social media in particular, to con-
change-of-station move would be on the “Long story short, I wondered what it nect with each other.
horizon within six months after her hus- would be like to have it all on one site and Haynie was approached by the social
band’s return from deployment, and her the Web site would have to be across ‘bor- media division to see if she was interested
anxiety was quickly compounding. ders, branches and ranks,’” Haynie said. in having the Web site featured in the
“I very well realized that it would be The site, http://www.militarydutysta- Association of United States Army Social
somewhat of a sprint to the finish line, tions.com, allows people to leave their Media Workshop exhibition during the
between reconnecting with my husband remarks and suggestions regarding area annual conference Oct. 25-27.
and getting the Family ready to relocate,” schools, housing and medical information, “I immediately realized that this is a
she said. things to do and moving tips. Haynie said wonderful opportunity for the Web site to
reach a large audience. I was so excited to
have been chosen,” Haynie said.
She believes having the site featured
at the AUSA conference will have a great
impact as commanders, Family readiness
group leaders and other participants carry
the information of the AUSA conference
home and pass it on.
“I am proud to announce that the
AUSA added my Web site to their list of
resources.”
Ashlie Paulo, military spouse, said
the Web site was a great help before she
relocated to Germany.
“(The Web site) has helped me out a
lot,” Paulo said. “I really appreciate this
site because there’s a lot that I could not
find if it was not for this site. This site
responds fast and gives really good sug-
gestions.”

The site, http://www.militarydutystations.com, is shown at the Association of United States
Army Social Media Workshop exhibition during the annual conference Oct. 25-27, 2010.

11


Hey Doc: ‘I dare you to eat that!’
Hey Doc: “Question for you ‘Ramallah Runs’…you get and normal or slightly acidic frigerator you bought for $20?
… My roommate threw down the idea. How long can food pH. (Remember science class?) Do you have a thermometer?
a challenge. I had some left- stay in the refrigerator before Crackers and condiments As you and your roommate
over food from Thanksgiving it goes bad? I thought that if are examples of non-PHF. Cold open and close the refrigerator
sitting in my fridge for several there’s nothing growing on it, food should be stored at a tem- getting water and sodas, you
days and he dared me to eat it’s still good.” signed Petri perature of 40 degrees Fahr- lose cool air, so be conserva-
it. It looked and smelled fine. Dish. enheit or below and hot food tive in trusting your food.
Now I have ‘Montezuma’s at 140 F or above. The danger Food borne diseases cause
Revenge,’ the ‘Tikrit Trot,’ the Dear “Petri Dish,” zone which bacteria may grow more than 76 million illnesses
It’s not surprising you got is 41-139 F. in the United States each year.
sick. Under proper conditions, Improperly handling and Improper handling of cooked
food should be left in the re- storing cooked food can cause food is one of the most com-
frigerator for no more than 24 food poisoning. Leftovers are mon causes of food poisoning.
hours is a great rule of thumb. foods that you do not eat with- The longer you store food
More specifically, the in two hours, such as the food in the fridge, your chances
answer depends on the type you brought from the dining of food poisoning increase.
of food. Without getting too facility. Keep in mind the time Before you ask to move to a
technical, food is categorized it takes to transport the food to containerized housing unit
as Potentially Hazardous Food, your refrigerator. Consider the closer to the toilets, pay closer
or non-PHF. PHF requires time that you are wrapping the attention to the age and tem-
time-temperature control to food, walking out of the DFAC perature of your leftovers.
keep it safe for human con- to the bus stop, travel time, etc. Follow these tips and next
sumption. Meat, fish, poultry, Do you think your food is still time there is a challenge, you
milk and dairy products are in the safe temperature zone? will throw it down, not up!
examples because they contain More to consider ... How Taskforce Ironhorse, keep
moisture, high protein content, good is that hand-me-down re- those questions coming!

As Soldiers, honor is a way of life
Master Sgt. Jose A. Colon helping others can make it all worthwhile. is a loyal friend; his word is his bond. He
USD-N Equal Opportunity Office As a teenager, the local kids and I vol- always shows respect; his kindness and
unteered for Red Cross search and rescue selflessness sets him apart from others in
“On my honor, I will do my best, to do teams. I became an instructor for programs this materialistic world; and integrity is his
my duty …” These are the first words of such as First Aid, CPR, Shelter Manage- watch word – his courage legendary.
the Boy Scouts of America Oath. ment, and eventually a Disaster Action It takes a special kind of person to vol-
I came late to the Boy Scouts, but soon Team Coordinator. unteer, yet when we look at the qualities
after I started Scouting I began to see life My friends and I organized health clin- exhibited by those who give of themselves
from a different perspective. Having made ics in distant rural areas in Puerto Rico, for a greater good, these are the qualities
it a point to put my money where my helping the local Women’s Shelter, trans- usually exhibited by those who go through
mouth was and volunteer, I found myself porting abused and endangered women to life honorably.
providing not just my time, but my years safe houses, collecting food and medicine Today, our military is an all-volunteer
of experience to help young men learn for Latin American nations stricken by force. It takes a special kind of person to
useful skills, while gaining maturity and floods and earthquakes, and when disaster volunteer to defend our Nation, and our
responsibility. struck in our back yard, you could find the way of life.
When you give of yourself, in order to old gang splashing in the aftermaths of a Our Families are also praiseworthy,
help others, whether you want it or not, hurricane, helping Families shovel mud because they stay at our side by their own
you benefit one way or another. You learn off their houses, and mopping floors, or free will. They support our mission, and
new skills, make new friends and open removing trees from roadways. their efforts, usually, go unnoticed. They
new doors. You understand that there is The nobility that distinguishes an also live honorable lives.
almost nothing impossible in life once you honorable individual is not based on titles Honor is a way of life not easily under-
set your mind to accomplish it, and if that or monetary riches, but in the riches of stood by those who have not learned the
is not enough, then just the satisfaction of that person’s character. Such an individual joy of volunteering.

12

The Ivy Leaf, volume 1, issue 5

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The Ivy Leaf, volume 1, issue 5