The Ivy Leaf, vol 1 iss 9

Volume 1, Issue 9 December 31, 2010

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CONTINGENCY OPERAT-ING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq – Soldiers of the 12th Iraqi Army Division and Iraqi Police from the Kirkuk Police Department, conducted a joint operation to disrupt and capture terrorists operating within Kirkuk prov-ince Dec. 24.

Operation Devil’s Eve, a four-day mission under the

joint command of staff Brig. Gen. Sameer, commander, 12th IA Div., and Maj. Gen. Jamal, the Provincial Director of Police in Kirkuk, resulted in the capture of twelve war-ranted individuals and multiple weapons caches.

“This (operation) indicates that we, the Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police, with support from American forces, can pro-vide security to the people of Kirkuk … Arabs, Turkomen, Syrians or any other group …

and they can feel secure as we prosper as Iraqis,” Jamal said.

The combined ISF air as-sault operation, using intelli-gence gathered in the weeks of planning leading to Operation Devil’s Eve, reached multiple targets, using Iraqi aircraft to provide ISF speed and the el-ement of surprise needed to detain warranted individuals before they could flee the area.

Iraqi Police and elements from the 12th IA Div. formed cordons around the outskirts of

the objectives to further pre-vent the insurgents’ ability to escape.

The ISF began plans for the operation in early Decem-ber targeting terrorists in the Kirkuk area.

Soldiers of 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, “Devil Brigade,” 1st Infantry Divi-sion, from Fort Riley, Kan., as-sisted Iraqi Security Forces in planning and rehearsals prior to the mission that resulted in confiscating several caches of improvised explosive devices, rockets, and TNT barrels, said Sameer.

The 12th IA Staff, complet-ed plans for the air assault op-eration with the “Dark Knight”

Iraqi Security Forces conduct ‘Devil’s Eve’ Air AssaultISF unite as ‘one team’ to protect people of Kirkuk

Soldiers of 12th Iraqi Army Division load an Iraqi Air Force Mi-17 helicopter at a combined check point in northern Iraq, Dec. 23, 2010. The Iraqi Security Forces conducted a four-day joint operation, Operation Rat Trap, leading searches and raids with IA soldiers and Iraqi Police in and around the city of Kirkuk to detain warranted individuals and disrupt violent insurgents. “This (operation) indicates that we, the Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police, with support from American forces, can provide security to the people of Kirkuk,” said Maj. Gen. Jamal, Provincial Director of Police in Kirkuk province.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kandi Huggins, 1st AATF PAO, 1st Inf. Div., USD-N

Spc. Kandi Huggins1st AATF1st Inf. Div., USD-N

See AIR ASSAULT, pg 4

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!

Pfc. John Dorff, military intelligence analyst, from Orlando, Fla., assigned to Company A, 1st Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, earned recognition as “Ironhorse Strong” Soldier of the Week, for actions assisting a unit medic providing trauma care to a wounded teammate.

Conducting a patrol in Kirkuk, Soldiers assigned to 1st AATF, 1st Inf. Div., reacted immediately when small-arms fire wound-ed their interpreter Dec. 10.

The “Devil” Brigade Soldiers moved the translator to a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle, where Dorff and the unit medic awaited.

Dorff assisted the medic cutting off the translator’s clothing and maintained con-trol of the first aid pack so Walker could effectively treat the casualty.

He also prevented further injury by se-curing the casualty during a rough ride to Contingency Operating Site Warrior.

Returning to COS Warrior, Dorff com-pleted a full assessment of the incident and provided actionable intelligence to the bri-gade.

“Although this was Pfc. Dorff’s first mission off the COS, he handled himself

with poise and confidence under enemy fire,” said Sgt. 1st Class Brandon Ogburn, Fusion cell noncommis-sioned officer in charge, 1st AATF, 1st Inf. Div.

During his time deployed with the task force, Dorff has provided analytical products and on the spot assessments far above his experience lev-el, said Ogburn.

Dorff is an excellent ex-ample for all Soldiers and leaders of 1st AATF, 1st Inf. Div., and is highly dedicated to mission success, and a motivational force within his Fusion cell, providing inspi-ration to his fellow Soldiers, said Ogburn.

First Sgt. Patrick Thomas, first sergeant, Company A, 1st BSTB, said Dorff’s ac-tions on that day epitomize the Company A Motto, “Avengers never quit.”

“His respect, professionalism and self-less service are to be followed by his fellow Soldiers, leaders and Iraqi counterparts for years to come,” Thomas said.

THE Ivy LeafThe Ivy Leaf is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. 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 publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. All editorial content of The Ivy Leaf is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the United States Division-North Public Affairs Office.

Do you have a story to share? The Ivy Leaf welcomes submissions from readers. Send to the USD-N PAO at [email protected]. The Ivy Leaf reserves the right to edit submissions selected for the paper. For further information on deadlines, questions or comments, email USD-N PAO or call DSN 318-849-0089.

Commanding General – Maj. Gen. David G. PerkinsCommand Sergeant Major – Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey

TF Ironhorse PAO – Lt. Col. Steve WollmanTF Ironhorse PA NCOIC – Master Sgt. Carmen Daugherty-Glaze

The Ivy Leaf Layout & Design – Spc. Thomas Bixler

2nd Advise and Assist Brigade

25th Infantry Division

1st Advise and Assist Task Force

1st Infantry Division

4th Advise and Assist Brigade

1st Cavalry Division

Task Force Ironhorse

Task Force Ironhorse Public Affairs

Page 4 Page 5 Page 7 Page 9

Staff meetings bring results, cohesion

‘Long Knife’ transfers base to Iraqi Army

256th CSH assumes care for Soldiers in Iraq

Haweja Elementary School re-opens with U.S. help

Pfc. John Dorff, military intelligence analyst assigned to Company A, 1st Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 1st Ad-vise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, earned recogni-tion for superior performance of duty when his unit received small-arms fire while conducting a patrol through Kirkuk, Dec. 10, 2010. Dorff assisted the unit medic providing trauma care to the injured translator in the back of a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle. For his actions and profession-alism, Dorff is the “Ironhorse Strong” Soldier of the Week.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Robert England

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!10

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As we celebrate the passing of 2010, I would like to take a moment to thank every member of the Task Force Ironhorse team for the numerous contributions and sacrifices that you and your Families have made in support of Operation New Dawn. I encour-age each of you to take a moment to reflect on all that we have accomplished as individuals and as a team this past year. Upon reflection, the tasks of training and preparing for this deployment have been truly herculean. Your intensity and attention to detail are what makes our units ready to accomplish any task, no matter how daunting.

Every day U.S. Di-vision-North Command Sergeant Major Daniel A. Dailey and I are im-pressed by what we see and hear as we travel throughout our operating environment in northern Iraq. We also get positive feedback from Iraqi lead-ers as well as our military leaders and distinguished visitors. You are doing a great job—keep it up!

While the security agreement calls for U.S. forces to leave Iraq by the end of 2011, there is still work to be done. The quality of our endeavors over the upcoming months is what will make the difference in leaving a safe and stable Iraq. Meet each day as a challenge as we complete the final chapter in Iraq. What you do each and every day has far reaching effects well beyond your op-erating bases and the Iraqi forces that you train and mentor. The successful accomplishment of this mission is wholly dependent upon your actions. Your steadfast professionalism and commit-ment to excellence will leave an indelible mark on the Iraqi people and the legacy left by U. S. forces in Iraq.

The new year promises to be a fulfilling one for the men and women of Taskforce Ironhorse. U.S. Division-North will complete its ongoing mission to advise, train and assist our Iraqi partners in accordance with the security forces agreement, working toward the eventual closure of U.S. bases and withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq. As we write the closing chapters for U.S. forces in Iraq, it will be your hard work and sacrifice that will ensure the hard work and blood shed by those who have been here before us were not in vain.

Based on our numerous successes in 2010, I am confident that we will achieve even greater success in 2011. We have built a team of teams to ensure success in Iraq; however, none of this would be possible without the continuous outpouring of support from our friends and Family back home. Our continuing success is largely due to their selfless dedication, tireless support and commitment to our forces and our mission.

Stay focused, keep your eye on the task to be done, and always

place safety first—stay strong, Ironhorse Strong!STEADFAST AND LOYAL! IRONHORSE 6

2011: a promising year for IraqMaj. Gen. David G. PerkinsCommanding General4th Infantry Division and U.S. Division-North

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David Strayer, 109th MPAD, USD-NMaj. Gen. David G. Perkins, commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division and U.S. Division-North, presents a coin to Spc. Manpreet Singh of Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, in recognition of the con-tinuous hard work and attention to detail displayed by Singh on a daily basis during his service at the Bayji Oil Refinery in northern Iraq, Dec. 25, 2010. Perkins, accompanied by Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Daily, command sergeant major of the 4th Inf. Div. and U.S. Division-North, conducted a battlefield circulation across parts of northern Iraq, visit-ing small checkpoints and outposts such as BOR to spend time with the Soldiers deployed in support of Operation New Dawn during the holiday season. “We are at a pretty (remote) location─always running missions, and staying prepared,” said Singh, a native of Fresno, Calif. “We are pretty much self-sustaining. It means a lot that two people that are so important would take the time to fly all the way out here on Christmas Day to see us.”

“Your steadfast professionalism and commitment to excellence will leave an indelible mark on the Iraqi people and the legacy left by U.S. forces in Iraq.” ─ Ironhorse 6

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!

FORWARD OPERATING BASE WAR-HORSE, Iraq – Four Iraqi Army officers sat at a table facing tribesmen from a lo-cal Iraqi village. A man in the audience standing to address one of the IA officers exchanged words for a few minutes before quietly sitting down.

Senior officers from 17th Brigade, 4th Iraqi Army Division, met with sheiks and tribesmen from the village of Hamayyid at Forward Operating Base Atruz in the southern Salah ad Din province Dec. 21.

Lt. Col. John Steele, a member of the Stability Transition Team, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, and an advisor to the 17th IA Bde., described this meeting as a path toward cohesion.

“These meetings are to formulate syn-ergy,” he said. “At these (synchronization) meetings, the staff officers in the 17th IA

Bde. share intelligence aimed at establish-ing a more peaceful environment.”

Steele, a Dover, N.H.-native, explained the intent of the IA officers as well as the increasingly limited role U.S. forces play in these staff to staff meetings.

“The key point of all this is for the bat-talion intelligence officers in the 17th IA Bde. to bring all the (intelligence) together to establish appropriate courses of action,” he said. “For us, it’s a chance to bring our knowledge and experience to help them get better establishing those plans.”

Capt. Ian Fleischmann, intelligence offi-cer of Task Force 2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd AAB, 25th Inf. Div., said senior IA officers meet weekly with sheiks and tribesmen from the village of Hamayyid to share information and plan future operations.

The Hamayyid tribesmen attended the meeting to discuss solutions for bringing an end to indirect fire originating from their village aimed at Joint Base Balad,

explained Fleischmann, who hails from Grand Rapids, Mich.

Steele said the meeting concluded with a pledge signed by the 31 tribal leaders stat-ing they will work with the IA officers to stop the indirect fire coming from Hamayy-id and that they will report any suspicious activity to the 17th Bde., 4th IA Div.

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Training Team, attached to 1st AATF to advise their ISF coun-terparts and prove guidance as needed.

“We’re sincerely proud to be here to advise, train and assist the ISF,” said Col. Eric Welsh, commander, 1st AATF, 1st Inf. Div., from Fort Riley, Kan. “This operation has been all about them from the planning to the training leading up to this important event.

“If you are a citizen of Kirkuk, be assured that regard-less of your ethnicity, the ISF are working together for your security and stability.”

Iraqi Police assisted in the effort developing warrant pack-ets based on evidence to be used by IA soldiers to detain the suspected criminals.

The operation also required coordination with the Iraqi Air Force, who provided Mi-17 he-licopters to transport comman-dos from the 12th IA Comman-

do Battalion to the objectives.In the days leading to Op-

eration Devil’s Eve, ISF con-ducted a series of targeted raids in the Zaab River valley, a route insurgents use to smuggle weapons and conduct financing operations.

The success of the shaping operations, called Operation Rat Trap, led to the arrest of several warranted individuals and capture of numerous cach-es as well as providing the in-telligence necessary to plan for Devil’s Eve, said Sameer.

“This is only one of five ar-eas where we had operations …,” he said. “And this will not be the last joint operation we conduct.”

Sameer explained that the people of Kirkuk provided much of the information need-ed to target the terrorists.

The assistance of the gener-al population demonstrates the violent extremists are having

fewer and fewer places to find support, he said.

“The Iraqi Army, Iraqi Po-lice, Iraqi Air Force and U.S. Forces are all a team that worked together for this op-

eration,” concluded Jamal. “We are one team that stands united together.”

Continued from AIR ASSAULT, pg 1

Col. Eric Welsh, commander of the “Devil Brigade,” 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, from Fort Riley, Kan., com-pliments the success of the joint operations conducted and planned by the Iraqi Security Forces in and around the city of Kirkuk during a press conference discussing Operation Rat Trap and Operation Dev-il’s Eve, Dec. 24, 2010. Staff Brig. Gen. Sameer, commander,12th Iraqi Army Division, left, and Maj. Gen. Jamal, the Provincial Director of Po-lice in Kirkuk, right, said their forces are united as one team working together for the security and stability of the people of Kirkuk, regard-less of ethnic background.

Lt. Col. John Steele, an advisor to 17th Bri-gade, 4th Iraqi Army Division, and a member of the Stability Transition Team, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, in-forms local tribesmen on ways the U.S. forc-es plan to assist the IA during a staff to staff meeting Dec. 21, 2010 at Forward Operating Base Atruz in the Salah ad Din province.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kandi Huggins, 1st AATF PAO, 1st Inf. Div.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Robert England

Staff meetings bring results, cohesionSpc. Robert England2nd AAB Public Affairs25th Inf. Div., U.S. Division-North

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!10

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‘Long Knife’ transfers base to Iraqi Army

CONTINGENCY OPERAT-ING SITE MAREZ, Iraq – Troopers assigned to Troop C, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Reg-iment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, transferred Contingency Op-erating Post Nimr to the Iraqi Army, Dec. 28.

The troopers conducted an inspection of the outpost near Sinjar Mountain in north-western Iraq with Brig. Gen. Rashid, commander of the 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Divi-

sion, and Capt. Ravo, buildings officer for the Iraqi Army Loca-tion Command.

Despite the lack of a cer-emony and fanfare, the Soldiers present took notice of the im-portance of the transfer.

“This is our first step in re-ducing our overall footprint,” said 1st Lt. Michael Vance, executive officer for Troop C, 6th Sqdn., 8th Cav. Regt. “It’s a very visible sign of the Iraqi Army becoming more capable at securing the local area.”

Vance, a native of Pitts-burgh, Pa., first lived at COP Nimr, Arabic for tiger, in 2003, as an enlisted infantryman with the 2nd Battalion, 187th In-

fantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Since then, Vance deployed to Afghanistan, and served as a drill sergeant, training new in-fantrymen, and graduated from Officer Candidate School.

“It seems to have come full circle for me here in Iraq,” said Vance, who has returned to Iraq in support of Operation New Dawn. “I was a young infan-tryman here when we first es-tablished Nimr, and now I find myself almost eight years later being responsible for closing it, and being one of the last U.S. Soldiers to leave it.”

Prior to the transfer, Soldiers of Troop C worked and lived out of the post, maintaining barracks space, latrines, a com-mand post and a large generator to power all of their operations and life support.

The 11th Brig., 3rd IA Div., assumed complete control of COP Nimr, incorporating the outpost into their larger Iraqi base by the same name.

To prepare for the trans-fer, IA officers conducted in-spections of the buildings and equipment.

“They inventoried every-thing from air conditioners to light switches,” Vance said.

Capt. Philip Crabtree4th AAB Public Affairs1st Cav. Div., USD-N

Lt. Col. Robert Reynolds, a native of Savannah, Ga., and commander of 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, conducts an inspection of Contingency Operating Post Nimr with Brig. Gen. Rashid, commander of the 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, Dec. 28, 2010. Rashid’s unit, based at a nearby IA post by the same name, is now responsible for the former U.S.-operated base. The troopers assigned to 6th Sqdn., 8th Cav. Reg., 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div., U.S. Division-North, are the first in the 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div., to transfer a U.S. base to the IA since Operation New Dawn began.

U.S. Army photo by Capt. Philip Crabtree, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N

See BASE, pg 7

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!10

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A U.S. Division-North Christmas

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!10

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CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq – The 21st Combat Support Hospital cased its colors after a 12-month deployment, passing command to the 256th Combat Support Hospital during a Transfer of Authority ceremony at Contingency Operating Base Speicher Dec. 24.

With the unfurling of the colors, 256th CSH, an Army Reserve unit based in Brooklyn, Ohio, assumed the mission to provide care for troops deployed to U.S. Division-North in support of Operation New Dawn.

Gathering the many campaign streamers hanging from the standard, Col. Barbara Holcomb, commander of the 21st CSH, from Fort Hood, Texas, furled the unit col-ors before praising her Soldiers and wel-coming the incoming unit.

“The past year has flown by and I am amazed by how much the Soldiers have ac-complished,” said Holcomb.

“I thank all the Soldiers for their selfless service, positive attitude and constant focus on the mission,” she said, further praising her Soldiers.

After saluting the uncased colors of his unit, Col. Martin Phillips, commander, 256th CSH, acknowledged the outgoing unit, thanking the Soldiers for sharing their experience and expertise.

“They have set us up for success,” he said.

Phillips assured those in attendance that his unit is well-prepared to provide quality medical care for U.S. Division-North Sol-diers.

“The dedication of the Soldiers to their profession and to each other is awe inspir-ing,” said Phillips. “Providing care is a re-sponsibility none of us takes lightly.”

During the past year, the 21st CSH set a standard in caring for the Soldiers that came through its doors, and the 256th CSH has every intention of keeping the high standards set by the outgoing unit, he added.

“We make a difference to every person that comes in our door,” said Philips.

256th CSH assumes care for Soldiers in Iraq

Col. Martin Phillips, commander, 256th Com-bat Support Hospital, and Command Sgt. Maj. Donnie Montgomery, the hospital’s senior enlisted leader, uncase the unit colors during a Transfer of Authority ceremony at Contin-gency Operating Base Speicher, Dec 24, 2010. Phillips said it was a privilege and honor to work with 21st CSH Soldiers who shared their experience and expertise with the incoming unit.

Sgt. Coltin Heller109th MPADU.S. Division-North Public Affairs

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller

Iraqi Army Capt. Ravo, the building officer for the Iraqi Army Location Com-mand accompanied the 11th Brig. Com-mander, Brig. Gen. Rashid, during the as-sessment of the base, and formally accepted responsibility for the site as Troop C de-parted.

“I am sad to see the American Soldiers leave here,” said Ravo, who serves at Al Kisik Base west of Mosul. “I like to work with them. They do a great job and have helped me and my fellow of-ficers. I hope we have

a partnership that will last for-ever.”

COP Nimr is the first base to be transferred by the 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div., to the Iraqi Army and is a sign of the times as Op-eration New Dawn progresses.

Throughout the coming year, Soldiers will transfer more bases of various sizes or close them altogether.

As bases change hands, Iraqi Security Forces assume sole re-sponsibility for security in larg-er areas of Ninewa province.

Concurrent with the base transfers, Soldiers assigned to the “Long Knife Brigade” con-tinue to train their ISF partners to ensure they are well-pre-pared and can conduct indepen-dent operations.

Continued from BASE, pg 5

Sgt. Christopher Valdez, an infantry squad leader assigned to Troop C, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, watches with a soldier from the 11th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, as Contingency Operating Post Nimr is transferred from U.S. forces to the Iraqi Army, Dec. 28, 2010. Valdez, a native of Albuquerque, N.M., left COP Nimr with the rest of the Soldiers assigned to Troop C after seven months of working side-by-side with the IA soldiers.

U.S. Army photo by Capt. Philip Crabtree, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!

CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE MAREZ, Iraq – After the first few months of being deployed, statistics show Soldiers become ac-customed to their surroundings and sometimes choose shortcuts that might put themselves or others in harm’s way.

To combat complacency and re-inforce Soldier’s safety awareness, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, “Hammers,” 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Di-vision, halted operations for a safe-ty stand down day, Dec 23.

The unit, which assumed its mis-sion to advise, train and assist Iraqi Security Forces in late October, has statistically passed the mark in its deployment where Soldiers can slip into a mode of complacency, expressed Maj. Vincent Thomas, commander, HHC, 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div.

During the safety stand down, the unit, from Fort Hood, Texas, held classes consisting of suicide prevention, vehicle safety, fire prevention, burn barrel operations and weapons safety awareness.

Soldiers rotated through each station learning the importance of safety and be-ing aware of their surroundings while de-ployed.

“The biggest thing is familiarization with some of the hazards that have gotten Soldiers hurt in the past, and ways they can avoid those same mistakes to prevent in-jury and accomplish the mission,” said Mr. Sean Morrill, safety officer assigned to 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div.

During weapon safety and awareness training, Soldiers reinforced muzzle aware-ness, treating every weapon as if it were loaded.

“We always have to keep in mind weap-on safety and muzzle awareness,” said Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Thomas, provost marshal

noncommissioned officer in charge, 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div., and a native of Lex-ington, Ky. “It’s important for our Soldiers, while they are training Iraqi soldiers that they are emphasizing weapons safety as well, so they don’t hurt themselves or any-one around them”

The safety day provided “Long Knife” Soldiers of 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div., the opportunity to reassess their operating en-vironment and familiarize with the equip-ment not used as a part of their everyday mission.

“This was my first time working with (a squad automatic weapon), learning how to clear it and how it works,” said Sgt. Tara Davis, personnel actions NCO, HHC, 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div., and native of Savan-nah, Ga. “It’s important for me to know this so that I can pass the knowledge I’ve learned today to Soldiers assigned in the future.”

The Soldiers also attended the “I. A.M. Strong” campaign, an important class that is often seen at every Army installation from restrooms to poster boards at post ex-changes.

The campaign, Intervene, Act, Moti-vate, is used to educate Soldiers how to be proactive in preventing sexual assault before it occurs, said Sgt. 1st Class Chris Seeley, an intelligence analyst from Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

“Sexual harassment will not be tolerated in the Army, and it is not part of the Army values,” said Seeley, the Ninewa Combined Coordination Center NCOIC, assigned to 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div.

The Soldiers of “Long Knife” Brigade, 4th AAB, 1st Cav. Div., arrived in northern Iraq in September to support the efforts of U.S. Division-North in its ongoing mission to advise, train and assist ISF during Op-eration New Dawn and to do it safely.

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‘Hammers’ sustain emphasis on safety during Operation New DawnStaff Sgt. Renee Wilson4th AAB Public Affairs1st Cav. Div., U.S. Division-North

Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Thomas, provost marshal office noncommissioned officer in charge, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, instructs Sgt. Tara Davis, personnel actions NCO and native of Savannah, Ga., how to clear an M249 Squad Automatic Weapon during the unit’s safety stand down day, Dec. 23. Weapon safety and aware-ness is also taught to Iraqi Army counterparts so they can keep themselves and others around them safe, explained Thomas, who hails from Lexington, Ky.

U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Renee Wilson, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!Haweja Elementary School re-opens with U.S. help

CONTIGENCY OPERATING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq – The Haweja Students of the Al Tau-fal Elementary School lined the entrance of their newly re-constructed school, clapping to celebrate the building’s grand opening, Dec. 19, in Kirkuk province.

Lt. Col. Andrew Ulrich, commander of 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment and Capt. Tony Smith, commander of Company A, 1st Bn., 14th Inf. Regt., joined members of the Department of State Kirkuk Provincial Reconstruction Team at the school’s opening.

“This was truly a team ef-fort that, although it was a long time in coming, showing how we can cooperate together to make Kirkuk better,” said Doug Teper, a governance advisor for the PRT, who works with local district councils in the prov-ince.

The project to renovate the school required the coopera-tion of the Iraqi Government, the Kirkuk Provincial Council, Iraqi Security Forces, PRT, and the “Golden Dragons” of 1st Bn., 14th Inf. Regt.

During Operation Iraqi Free-dom in 2005, insurgents severe-ly damaged the school during an attack. Iraqi government of-ficials surveyed the school soon after the attack, determining it needed to be demolished and rebuilt from the ground up.

“This school and the paved roads, leading to all of the schools, are very important for Haweja,” said Hussain Abu Sadam, the City Council chair-man. “Lt. Col Ulrich, and Capt. Smith, we all want to say, thank you.”

The project was made pos-sible by U.S. Army funding

through the Commander’s Emergency Response Program. The PRT then worked closely with the Kirkuk Provincial Council and local Haweja dis-trict council to ensure the polit-ical process allowed the project to proceed.

“Part of our mission in the region is to find ways to allow economic growth and political stability while encouraging eth-nic and tribal rivals to work to-gether peacefully,” said Daniel Fennell, the public diplomacy officer of the Kirkuk PRT, who served as one of the leads on the school project. “The PRT

was able to help get Iraqi cen-tral planning approval for the project, and to find middle ground when provincial plan-ners and Haweja district of-ficials disagreed on how the project should be carried out.”

Since 2003, the U.S. Gov-ernment has provided funds to renovate or reconstruct 135 schools in Kirkuk prov-ince, including the all-girls school opened in October di-rectly across the street from the Haweja Boy’s School, said Fennell.

Fennell stated the project helped to create good relations

with the citizens of Haweja.“We have built a very strong

relationship with the U.S. and we will work hard to keep that relationship,” said Abu Sadam.

“Our focus is on the econo-my and schools to help Kirkuk in the long-term,” said Smith, a Braham, Minn.-native.

Smith stated that the project is consistent with the overall focus of Operation New Dawn, which will help Iraq as a whole as Iraqi Security Forces take the lead for security operations.

Pvt. Alyxandra McChesney1st AATF Public Affairs1st Inf. Div., USD-N

Lt. Col. Andy Ulrich, right, commander of 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, explains to the Kirkuk City Council the work that Capt. Tony Smith, com-mander of Company A, 1st Bn., 14th Inf. Regt., did to assist in making it possible for the Haweja school to open Dec. 19, 2010. Al Taufal Elementary School is one of 135 schools renovated or rebuilt in the Kirkuk province since 2003. The 1st Bn., 14th Inf. Regt., from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, is attached to 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division in support of Operation New Dawn.

U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Alyxandra McChesney, 1st AATF PAO, 1st Inf. Div.

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!

CONTINGENCY OPERAT-ING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq – ATTENTION SERVICE MEMBERS OF U.S. DIVI-SION-NORTH!

Is deployment getting you down? Do you need a break

from working long days and long nights? Have months of separation from your loved ones got you singing the blues?

Then put in a request for a pass to the Comprehensive Sol-dier Fitness Center at Contin-gency Operating Base Speich-er, Iraq!

At the start of the new year,

U.S. Division-North begins a three-track initiative to improve morale and overall wellness of service members deployed in support of Operation New Dawn, said Maj. Samuel Pres-ton, psychiatrist, 4th Infantry Division and U.S. Division-North.

“The mission of the CSF Center is not merely to give people days off from work,” said Preston. “Soldiers will re-turn to their units with tools to provide insight to get through tough times and how to respond to stress.”

Each month, select U.S. Di-vision-North service members will participate in three pro-grams designed to strengthen their minds and rejuvenate their bodies, explained Sgt. Maj. Scott Leeling, senior noncom-missioned officer in charge of the CSF Center.

Commanders have the op-tion to refer their troops to the CSF Center to participate in Freedom Rest, Ironhorse Strong or the Resilience Uni-versity.

During the four-day Free-dom Rest Track, guests have the opportunity to relax in spacious, hotel-like, accom-modations; play video games; use free Internet; wear civilian clothes and order food from the kitchen 24 hours a day.

“This cycle is completely relaxed,” said Leeling. “This is all about giving Soldiers the opportunity to step back from the fight and rejuvenate for a few days.”

Freedom Rest can facilitate up to 75 service members at a time and is held twice a month, Leeling said.

The Ironhorse Strong Track

offers the amenities of Freedom Rest, where service members can unwind from the stresses of deployment, and affords the opportunity for troops to attend classes on subjects ranging from communication skills to yoga, he said.

This track, complete with comfortable accommodations and service, also provides U.S. Division-North service mem-bers the opportunity to work through personal issues and re-ceive help to become more re-silient, explained Leeling.

During the first day of the track, Ironhorse Strong par-ticipants complete a survey to identify which classes the ma-jority of the Soldiers are inter-ested in taking, explained Leel-ing. The cadre at the CSF center will provide instruction for the top two choices of the group survey.

“There are only so many video games a person can play, and there is only so much tele-vision they can watch,” said Leeling. “This cycle gives Sol-diers the opportunity to stretch their minds and stretch their bodies, to strengthen the five pillars of Comprehensive Sol-dier Fitness.”

CSF is a holistic program focused on developing physi-cal, emotional, social, spiritual and familial strength, explained Sgt. Maj. Robert Johnson, mas-ter resiliency trainer, 4th Inf. Div. and U.S. Division-North.

“The goal of CSF is to build an army of balanced, healthy, self-confident Soldiers, Family members and Army civilians whose resilience and total fit-ness enables them to excel in an era of high operational tempo and persistent conflict,” he said.

As many as 75 service mem-bers can request to attend an it-eration of the Ironhorse Strong Track held twice a month be-ginning Jan. 6.

Make your reservations:Comprehensive Soldier Fitness Center brings USD-N troops relaxation and learningSpc. Andrew IngramUSD-N Public Affairs

Spc. Dexter Osdey, a petroleum supply specialist, assigned to Head-quarters and Headquarters Troop, Task Force ODIN, Observe, Detect, Identify and Neutralize, plays a video game while enjoying lunch at Freedom Rest-North, Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, Dec. 13, 2010. Soldiers who receive passes to Freedom Rest wear ca-sual attire and take a break from their busy lives deployed to Iraq as part of U.S. Division-North, in support of Operation New Dawn. Osdey, who hails from New-Orleans, received a four-day pass to Freedom Rest from his commander for winning the Task Force ODIN Soldier of the Month Board. Soldiers who wish to spend time at Freedom Rest can request a slot through their chain-of-command.

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD-N, PAO

See CSF, pg 11

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPIECHER, Iraq – Soldiers stationed at Contingency Operating Base Speicher gathered to hear the spiritual harmonies of the Gospel Keynotes at the Morale, Wel-fare and Recreation Center-North, Dec. 25.

The contemporary gospel group played Christmas Day performing to boost the morale and spirits of Soldiers deployed in support of Operation New Dawn and to provide another way for Soldiers to gather for Christmas Mass.

“I am glad to see gospel music played for the Soldiers,” said Chief Warrant Offi-cer James Quick, U.S. Division-North Tar-geting officer assigned to Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Division.

“This not only boosts morale, it uplifts the Soldier’s spirits during this special time of the year,” said Quick, who hails from Bennettsville, S.C.

Jeffery Newberry, lead singer of the Gospel Keynotes, said the group felt com-pelled to come and play for the Soldiers this year.

“We came here because of what the Sol-diers are doing,” said Newberry, who calls Fort Lauderdale, Fla. home. “The reaction was heartfelt, and we enjoy making people smile.”

While other bands only perform for the Soldiers, the Gospel Keynotes took it one step further as Newberry walked into the

audience and handed over the microphone for numerous Soldiers to lead songs they knew.

“He shushed me earlier for singing along,” laughed Sgt. Maj. Reginald Rob-inson, senior enlisted leader from Fort McCoy, Wis., who leads the Expedition-ary Disposal Remediation Team, Defense Reutilization Management Office, at COB Speicher. “It was a dream come true.”

Although this marks the band’s first time playing abroad for the Soldiers, New-berry said the band plans to make a return trip and play for the troops whenever they get the opportunity.

“I feel that we must come back as long as there are Soldiers here,” said Newberry. “This gave me a new perspective on life. I will go home knowing I can do so because of the sacrifices made here.”

“I would like Soldiers to walk away from the CSF Cen-ter with the sense that they can be resilient,” said Johnson. “I don’t want them to be like an egg that breaks when you drop it, but like a ball that bounces back from adversity and chal-lenges.”

At the Resilience Univer-sity Track, U.S. Division-North leaders spend 40 hours studying CSF and adult learning theory.

Upon completion of the course, the leaders take what they have learned back to their

units to share CSF principles with their Soldiers and peers at the company level, said Pres-ton, who designed the course curriculum.

“This is a proactive ap-proach to complete Soldier fitness,” explained Leeling. “Strong minds and strong bod-ies lead to strong Soldiers, and that is what we want to build with this program.”

Leeling said once a month each battalion designates as many as three service members of E-5 to O-3 grade to attend

the Resilience University.The first iteration of the Re-

silience University begins Jan. 12.

Lt. Col. Mary Krueger, di-vision surgeon, 4th Inf. Div. and U.S. Division-North said the CSF Center is more about strengthening U.S. forces as a whole than giving individual service members a break from the rigors of deployment.

“The CSF Center is a place where service members not only rejuvenate themselves, but learn skills,” said Krueger.

“They will take those skills back to their units to teach oth-ers how to use them as tools to be resilient in the face of adversity throughout their de-ployment and upon returning home.”

Service members interested in attending one of the tracks at the Comprehensive Sol-dier Fitness Center should call DSN: (318) 845-6672 and work through their chain-of-com-mand for more information.

Sgt. Coltin Heller109th MPADUSD-N Public Affairs

Keynotes perform for COB Marez Soldiers

Sgt. Maj. Reginald Robinson, senior enlisted leader from Fort McCoy, Wis., assigned to the Ex-peditionary Disposal Remediation Team, Defense Reutilization Management Office, 4th Infan-try Division, performs with the Gospel Keynotes, who played to raise morale and the spirits of Soldiers stationed at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Dec. 25, 2010. Robinson, the first Soldier of many to sing that night, said it was dream come true to sing with the band. This was the Keynotes first performance for Soldiers deployed overseas. Lead singer, Jeffery Newberry said the band plans for repeat performances as long as there are Soldiers still serving abroad.

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO

Continued from CSF, pg 10

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The Ivy Leaf December 31, 2010Happy New Year!

Dear “Thrifty,”Weight loss and athletic enhancing

products are among the top selling dietary supplements with retail sales of more than $5.4 billion in 2005. What drives the pur-suit of the “Quick Fix?” It’s that longing for rapid weight loss with minimal effort and the desire for enlarged muscle mass in the shortest time possible. There are well over 100 compounds used in hundreds of different over-the-counter products mar-keted for weight loss and athletic enhance-ment. With great advertisement and overly ambitious explanations of the health benefits, they are flying off the shelves.

The average consumer does not real-ize that over the counter products have only minimal federal regulatory require-ments. Manufacturers can legally make claims that ingredients may “promote” or “support” health. Be wary of outrageous claims! Most important, the makers are not required to prove the product is safe, effective, or even pure in quality. If you use caution and follow directions, there are a few products on the market that have some decent clinical trials showing some benefit.

Creatine is by far the most commonly used and studied supplement. It is thought that oral creatine improves the energy production process and speeds recovery

time for short-burst activities like weight lifting. Clinical trials have shown im-provement in strength and size of muscles when used with a consistent exercise rou-tine. The increase in muscle size, however, is likely due to the movement of water from the surrounding area of the muscle cell into the center of cell. Because of this inward shift of water, creatine can lead to dehydration and severe muscle cramps. So, creatine users are advised to drink a minimum of 4 liters of water daily along with cycling off the product at regular intervals to minimize dehydration. For safety, do not exceed 20mg per day!

Protein intake is directly linked to increased muscle mass when used with a consistent lifting routine. Protein supplementation helps maintain a positive nitrogen balance, providing the needed molecules for muscle recovery. Protein comes in many forms and not all provide the same result. The main types of protein are whey, casein, soy, and dietary.

Whey protein is absorbed very quickly and is best for post-workout supplementa-tion. Whey is manufactured as either a concentrate or isolate product. Concentrate products contain far more lactose, which increases bloating and gas. Casein absorbs slowly and is intended for protein mainte-nance. Along with dietary protein, casein is helpful for increasing total daily protein intake.

Protein intake requires regulation because too much protein increases the risk of kidney stones and possible kidney failure. The average adult should consume 0.4 grams of protein per pound of body weight (0.8g/kg). An example would be a 200-pound person needs 80 grams of protein. Athletes that are working out consistently need more protein and should increase their intake to 0.5-0.7 grams per

pound (1.2-1.5g/kg) daily.Caffeine and its botanical cousin

guarana and yerba mate have been shown to improve mental awareness and supply increased energy. However, there’s no proof that they will help you lose weight. Caffeine, typically combined with taurine, has been shown in clinical trials to im-prove energy levels, mental alertness, and give minimal improvements in endurance when consumed prior to exercise. Caffeine is why many dietary supplement products continue to be big sellers. These products along with energy drinks do not define the amount of caffeine in each serving. Manu-facturers often combine caffeine with guarana and/or mate, which only increases the quantity of caffeine per serving. Intake of 300mg or more of caffeine at one time can be harmful due to increased heart rate, blood pressure and dehydration. Warning! These products may contain as much as 300mg per serving with multiple servings per drink.

Consider this when deciding to spend your hard-earned money on dietary supplements: the overwhelming majority of products lack clinical evidence to sup-port their claims that they improve weight loss or enhance athletic performance. Your best pathway to your physical fitness goals is a consistent exercise routine along with a well-defined meal plan. Nothing replaces hard work and time!

My overall recommendation for supplements is to save your cash as they are just not worth it. An upcoming article will highlight dangerous supplements, so be watching for it. In the meantime, stay “ambitious, thrifty, and safe!”

Keep those questions coming. Ironhorse Strong!

Hey Doc: ‘Am I wasting my hard-earned money on dietary supplements?’

‘Hey Doc:’ I work out religiously and want to compete in the next body building competition. How do I get huge and ripped without cashing in my thrift savings plan, pawning my valuables, or hurting myself?

–Yours Truly, “Ambitious, Thrifty, and Concerned”

Capt. Todd C. Schwartz21st Combat Support HospitalU.S. Division-North

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