Muslim Soldiers celebrate end of Ramadan. Eid al-Fitr holiday marks end of 30-day fast.

1. U.S. Division-North
Volume 1, Issue 44 Established in 1917 to honor those who serve September 3, 2011
Muslim Soldiers celebrate end of Ramadan
Black Jack
Steadfast and Loyal
Eid al-Fitr holiday marks end of 30-day fast
Spc. Crystal Hudson al-Fitr at Contingency Operating Base sion commanding general.
29th MPAD Speicher, Iraq, Aug. 30. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain
USD - N Public Affairs Eid al-Fitr is the culmination of 30 from eating and drinking from sunrise
days of fasting and marks the end of the to sunset for 30 days.“The fasting is not
LongKnife
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE Islamic holy month of Ramadan. only fasting of the food and water,” Ab-
SPEICHER, Iraq – Muslim Soldiers “It is basically like Christmas in our delazim said, “it is actually fasting from
and civilians came together during ear- country,” said Dr. Alaa Abdelazim, cul- all sin.”
ly morning hours to celebrate the Eid tural advisor for the 4th Infantry Divi- See FAST pg. 3
Ironhorse
Devil
Fit for Any Test
Fit for Any Test
Ironhorse
Devil
LongKnife
Steadfast and Loyal
BLack JAck
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Crystal Hudson, 29th MPAD, USD-N PAO
Muslim Soldiers and civilians read from the Quran during Eid al-Fitr morning prayers at COB Speicher, Iraq, Aug. 30, 2011. The celebration
marks the end of 30 days of fasting during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Fasting during the month allows Muslims to understand how it
feels to be poor and hungry, said Dr. Alaa Abdelazim, cultural advisor for the 4th Infantry Division commanding general.

2. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
second Lieutenant
amanda Fonk
With the start of Operation New Dawn, to improve their technical knowledge and
U.S. forces’ mission shifted from combat skills, which enabled the 17th IA Bde. to
to preparing the Iraqi military to take re- better serve and protect the people in their
sponsibility of their country’s security mis- region.
sion. “She is what I like to call a cog in the
“Advise, train and assist,” became the machine,” Chatman said. “She has inte-
mantra of Soldiers deployed to Iraq in grated herself into the unit very well, and it
2010 and 2011. would not run properly without her.”
Second Lieutenant Amanda Fonk, a In addition to furthering the mission by
maintenance platoon leader assigned to training and mentoring her Iraqi counter-
Company G (Forward Support Company), parts, Fonk set herself apart through the
3rd Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regi- ability to handle large responsibilities with
ment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st minimum oversight, exemplified during
Cavalry Division, contributed to this mis- the ramp up for the battalion’s M109A6
sion by building an innovative partnership Howitzer training, said Chatman.
with maintenance officers of the 17th Iraqi Fonk streamlined the procurement of
Army Brigade, said Capt. Crystal Chat- the 155 mm projectiles and developed a
man, commander, Company G. delivery schedule to ensure the unimpeded
“We conducted a key leader engage- supply of ammunition for “Red Dragons”
ment with the Iraqis to identify their of 3rd Bn., 82nd FA Regt.
training needs,” said Chatman. “We took “She has the ability to handle huge lo-
a look at their vehicles and realized they gistical challenges,” said Chatman. “She
could use our help in that area. (Fonk) and has a very firm grasp on what needs to be
her platoon started working with the Iraqi done and how to do it. I could see her truly
maintenance soldiers and have vastly im- excelling in the logistics field.”
proved the way they operate.” For her dedication to her unit’s mission,
A native of Milwaukee, Fonk and her Fonk is this week’s “Ironhorse Strong”
U.S. Army photo Soldiers worked with the Iraqi maintainers Soldier of the Week.
Preventive medicine Soldiers Celebrate Women's Field Artillery Soldiers 'Outlaws' keep peace in
specialists maintain healthy Equality aid Kirkuk through Kirkuk
environment checkpoint validations
Page 4 Page 6 Page 8 Page 9
THE Ivy Leaf Task Force Ironhorse
Commanding General – Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins
The Ivy Leaf is an authorized publication for members of the
Command Sergeant Major – Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey
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. Everything advertised 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. Craig Zentkovich
marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other The Ivy Leaf Editor – Sgt. 1st Class Rob Barker
non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. All editorial The Ivy Leaf Layout & Design – Spc. Andrew Ingram
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 1st Cavalry 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 318-849-0089. Assist Brigade
1st Cavalry Division
2

3. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
FAST Cont'd from pg. 1
Ramadan allows Muslims
to understand how it feels to
be poor and hungry, Abdelaz-
im said, and added “We share
their agony and unfortunate
life.”
Ramadan has a unifying ef-
fect by allowing all Muslims
to have a shared experience
while fasting.
“We get to know each
other. We share the same feel-
ings,” said Abdelazim. “We
will feel it together. We make
peace with each other, and we
will be closer than we could
ever imagine.”
Abdelazim, who lives in
Killeen, Texas, said at the be-
ginning of Ramadan, not all
Muslims on COB Speicher U.S. Army photo by Spc. Crystal Hudson, 29th MPAD, USD-N PAO
knew each other, but by the Dr. Alaa Abdelazim, cultural advisor for the 4th Infantry Division commanding general, shares encourag-
end of the month, everyone ing words with Muslim Soldiers and civilians during the Eid al-Fitr morning prayers at Contingency Op-
erating Base Speicher, Iraq, Aug. 30, 2011. Fasting during the month allows Muslims to understand how it
became friends and felt like a feels to be poor and hungry, said Abdelazim, who lives in Killeen, Texas.
Family. Ramadan also brought
the fasting Soldiers and civil- have been able to do it.” ed me and made me feel like support like what the leader-
ians closer to their co-workers It was Ameen's second time I could do it,” Ameen, who ship of the 4th Inf. Div. pro-
from other cultures and faiths. fasting since being deployed had deploymnt orders for 12 vided during Ramadan.
“We have a lot of support for almost 18 months at COB months, but volunteered to “Helping us to perform not
from our units and the people Speicher. During Ramadan, extend, said. “You feel them only our jobs, but even our be-
who we work with,” said Spc. Muslim Soldiers had the op- there, always trying to protect liefs, it gives (me) a big sense
Bashar Ameen, a linguist with tion to change their work you.” of happiness, and gives us the
4th Inf. Div., from San Diego. schedules from day to night. Abdelazim said he has nev- morale we need to perform
“Without the unit, I wouldn’t “(My leadership) support- er seen such a high level of our jobs,” said Abdelazim.
COB Speicher Suicide prevention 48-hour event
Come help raise awareness
of Suicide Prevention by
particpating in the COB
Speicher 48 Hour Event
Marathon Sept. 9-10.
Partner up and choose from
running, spin classes, ruck
march, P90X and other
events to equal a marathon
or more. For more informa-
tion contact Spc. Katy Palis,
katy.m.palis@us.army.mil.
3

4. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
Preventive medicine specialists
maintain healthy environment including threats of disease and other envi- cy Operating Base Warhorse in support of
2nd Lt. Alyson Randall
2nd AAB Public Affairs ronmental hazards. Operation New Dawn.
1st Cav. Div., USD - N Specialists Amanda Rose and Eddy Lu- Working at Teal Medical Clinic at COB
engas, both preventive medicine specialists Warhorse, Rose and Luengas mitigate
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE with Company C, 15th Brigade Support health and environmental issues by con-
WARHORSE, Iraq – While combat opera- Battalion, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, ducting inspections around the COB.
tions in Iraq have given way to the advise, 1st Cavalry Division, U.S. Division – “We do routine health inspections at the
train and assist mission, Soldiers still en- North, ensure deployed Soldiers work and places Soldiers use on a daily basis, like the
counter many challenges while deployed, live in a healthy environment at Contingen- gym, barber shop, and dining facility,” said
Rose, from Flint, Mich.
The team also inspects water sources on
the COB, explained Luengas, adding that
clean drinking water is vital to maintaining
the force.
“We test the levels of minerals in the
water, since too much hardness could cause
kidney stones in humans,” said Luengas, a
native of Santa Ana, Calif.
Additionally, the team goes to the source
of the problem, regardless of what type of
infection or disease it is, added Luengas.
Animals and insects are two factors that
commonly cause issues on the COB.
“For instance, an armadillo carries a
strain of leprosy,” said Luengas, “or (ser-
vice members) might not realize how
harmful a stray dog really can be.”
“We can educate everyone
on such a wide range of top-
ics that affect their health.”
–Spc. Amanda Rose
Company C, 15th BSB
Most Soldiers do not realize how many
diseases can be transferred from animals
and insects, he added.
The most important part of the team’s
job is to educate Soldiers by making them
aware of the diseases and how to stop them
from spreading, said Rose.
“We can educate everyone on such
a wide range of topics that affect their
health,” she said.
U.S. Army photo by 2nd Lt. Alyson Randall 2nd AAB PAO
The preventive medicine team contin-
Specialists Amanda Rose and Eddy Luengas, conduct routine water testing at Teal Medical
Clinic, Contingency Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq, July 29, 2011. Rose, from Flint, Mich., and
ues to work diligently so Soldiers can focus
Luengas, from Santa Ana, Calif., serve as preventive medicine specialists with 15th Brigade on the mission instead of threats to their
Support Battalion, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, U.S. Division – North. health, said Rose.
4

5. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
Cavalry troopers learn skills to succeed
Sgt. Justin Naylor The beginning of the class focused on im- spending time planning and building a blue-
2nd AAB Public Affairs proving personal habits, such as being proac- print for how they want their life to look; de-
1st Cav. Div., USD - N tive, making plans, and organizing goals to cide what is important to them and focus on
make them easier to accomplish. Matthews accomplishing what matters to them and thus
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE related some personal anecdotes that helped become more resilient.
WARHORSE, Iraq – There are many ways to the participants connect with the subjects. “This will help the Soldiers be better able
improve yourself while deployed. A group of Before a recent trip to a major Fam- to handle any situation, civilian or military,”
Soldiers and Airmen worked on self-develop- ily theme park, Matthews said he conducted said Matthews, as he talked about developing
ment during a resiliency class at Contingency hours of research about the best days to visit good habits at work.
Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq, Aug. 2. certain areas of the park, which restaurants In the military, individuals cannot think
The goal of the class was to help partici- were busiest at certain times of the day, and about putting themselves first, they have
pants learn which habits will help them to be how to avoid long lines. to strive for team success, he said. Service
more effective in their careers and personal By spending time preparing before he members must also work to better understand
lives, explained Chaplain (Capt.) Alfred Mat- went to the park, his Family maximized the their teammates, and take the feelings of
thews, chaplain for 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry amount of time they could spend having fun those they work with into account.
Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, there, he explained. It will help their team function better as
1st Cavalry Division, U.S. Division – North, Matthews said service members should a whole, he continued. Servicemembers also
and a Houston native. try to do this is in their day-to-day lives by need to think about their own strengths and
weaknesses, as well as those of their team-
mates, when they are making plans. By plan-
ning around personal strengths, teams can
better combine their efforts.
For the service members participating in
the class, it was a chance to learn new ways
to improve themselves personally and profes-
sionally.
“This class showed me how to effectively
use my time to become a more profession-
al, and all around better, Soldier,” said Spc.
Thomas Donahue, a mechanic with 2nd
AAB, 1st Cav. Div., and a Boston native.
"I can apply the habits we talked about
here directly to my life, and they will help me
be a better teammate as well," he added.
Donahue said the class was refreshing be-
cause it was a chance to step back from work
and focus on developing himself as an indi-
vidual. If Soldiers are going to be in Iraq, why
would they not use some time to improve
themselves, he said.
The class was the third course the chap-
lains of 2nd AAB, 1st Cav. Div., have hosted,
all of which have focused on improving re-
siliency.
"Learning new skills and habits and build-
ing our personal resiliencies, is what helps us
get through the tough times in life, such as
during a deployment," said Matthews. “Re-
siliency is just being comfortable with who
we are, and the mission we have.”
Another resiliency class has already been
planned and will focus on helping service
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Justin Naylor, 2nd AAB PAO
members manage personal finances.
Specialist Thomas Donahue, a mechanic with 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Di-
“Resiliency training is about how to be
vision, U.S. Division – North, and a Boston native, writes down a personal mission statement successful not just as a Soldier, but as a per-
during a resiliency class at Contingency Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq, Aug. 2, 2011. son,” he said.
5

6. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
Soldiers celebrate women’s equality
Spc. Andrew Ingram come valuable assets in the defense of their operations noncommissioned officer, Divi-
USD - N Public Affairs country. sion Signal section, Company C, DSTB,
“I’m proud that I am a woman in the mil- 4th Inf. Div.
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE itary,” she said. “We are (deployed) every “For some people, I think the presenta-
SPEICHER, Iraq – Soldiers and civilians day, brothers and sisters in arms, side by side tion really opened their eyes to what wom-
deployed to northern Iraq, in support of to protect the Constitution and the American en have achieved in the military and in the
Operation New Dawn, paid homage to way of life.” work force,” said Lane. “I think the more
women’s struggle for equal rights during Events like the Women’s Equality Day we know about each other, the better our
the Women’s Equality Day celebration at ceremony bring service members closer workforce becomes. Yes, we have come a
Contingency Operating Base Speicher, together, building a stronger fighting force long way, and I think we will continue to
Iraq, Aug. 26. and closing the gaps that can grow between battle. Women have to prove themselves
During the celebration, sponsored by Soldiers of different genders, races or back- where men do not, but … we have come
the U.S. Division – North Equal Opportu- grounds, said Master Sgt. Jennifer Lane, a long way.”
nity Office, participants honored women
who paved the way for female service
members. Participants shared poetry and
highlighted the importance of men and
women working together as equals.
Keynote speaker, Lt. Col. Mary
Krueger, division surgeon, U.S. Division
– North and 4th Infantry Division, said
the differences between men and women
should be recognized as strengths meant to
complement each other.
“When we talk about equality, we ask
the question, ‘Are men and women the
same?’” Krueger said. “I say, ‘Thank
goodness no!’ We are equally valuable, but
we are wonderfully unique.”
Men and women alike should be looked
at for their individual strengths and pro-
ficiencies instead of their gender, said
Krueger.
“Match the skill set to the task,”
Krueger said. “Don’t look at the gender of
a person to decide whether they can do it
or not. Look at their skills, and then assign
the right person to the task.”
The event highlighted the progress
women have made in gaining equal rights
and acceptance over the course of history,
said Staff Sgt. Vanessa Kennedy, medical
logistics specialist, Company B, Division
Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Di-
vision.
“Women’s Equality Day is just a re-
minder of how much women have per-
severed,” said Kennedy, who hails from
Baltimore. “Because of our persistence,
we will continue to gain momentum in our
society, and to fight for the things that we
want.” U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Josh Tverberg, USD - N PAO
Kennedy said she is proud of the strides First Sergeant Deirdre Neeley, senior enlisted Soldier, Company C, 62nd Expeditionary Signal
Battalion, 11th Signal Brigade, from Clarksville, Texas, shares a poem she wrote during the
women in the military have made over- Women’s Equality Day celebration at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, Aug. 26,
coming stereotypes and prejudices to be- 2011. During the event, participants celebrated the history of the Women’s Rights Movement.
6

7. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
‘Long Knife’ commander conducts press brief
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Andrew Ingram, USD - N PAO
Colonel Brian Winski, commander of 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, answers questions during a live Pentagon Press
Brief via remote satellite uplink at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, Sept. 1, 2011. During the press conference, Winski dis-
cussed the “Long Knife” Brigade's mission as an advise and assist brigade deployed to northern Iraqi in support of Operation New Dawn.
During its yearlong deployment, the 4th AAB advised Iraqi Security Forces, Kurdish security forces and Iraqi Police on combined patrols,
assisting at combined checkpoints, and trained the Iraqi Army, police and Federal Police on tactics.
Sgt. 1st Class Brent Williams satellite feed. mission to lead, train and men- Iraqi training site, the Ghuzlani
USD – N PAO Winski noted the 4th AAB tor Iraqi Security Forces in the Warrior Training Center, located
was the first advise and assist Dohuk, Arbil and Ninewa prov- at Contingency Operating Site
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- brigade to deploy in support of inces of northern Iraq in Sep- Marez, where IA units learned
ING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq Operation New Dawn, and one tember of 2010. to conduct coordinated attacks,
– Colonel Brian Winski, com- of the six advise and assist bri- Employing the full extent of organize defenses, and employ
mander of 4th Advise and Assist gades to serve in Iraq from 2010 their collective training and ex- combined arms.
Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, to 2011. perience, Long Knife Soldiers “In addition to advising and
hosted a live Pentagon Press He also outlined the efforts worked from remote operat- training the army and police
Brief via remote satellite uplink of U.S. Soldiers in implement- ing bases and combined check forces, and assisting our Iraqi
at Contingency Operating Base ing organized training and pre- points throughout northern Iraq Security Force counterparts
Speicher, Iraq, Sept. 1. paring Iraqi troops to train their to prepare ISF to take full re- across the province, we sup-
During the press conference, forces as the U.S. withdraws sponsibility for defending their ported (the U.S. Department of
Winski discussed the mission of from Iraq at the end of the year. country, said Winski. State) as they developed gover-
“Long Knife” Brigade and its “The Iraqi Security Forces The Long Knife Soldiers nance and civil capacity across
Soldiers, who are scheduled to in Ninewa are quite capable,” partnered with Iraqi Army ji- the province as well,” said Win-
redeploy to Fort Hood, Texas, Winski noted, “and the focus of nood, Arabic for soldiers, to ski, a native of Milwaukee.
having completed a 12-month our training and advisory efforts conduct individual and collec- Winski also discussed his
deployment in support of Op- have been to assist them with in- tive training, teaching core com- brigade’s role in working with
eration New Dawn. ternal security efforts, counter- petencies and common tasks Kurdish security forces, partner-
“Our mission since arrival terrorism operations, (and) basic necessary to protect the Iraqi ing with Iraqi forces, as part of a
here a year ago has been to ad- police functions.” borders and its people. combined security mechanism,
vise, train and assist the 60,000 Approximately 3,000 Sol- U.S. Army Soldiers also conducting trilateral security
Iraqi Security Forces that we’re diers of the 4th AAB, deployed planned, prepared and con- operations to ensure stability in
partnered with,” he explained to as part of U.S. Division – North, ducted organized tactical mili- the northern provinces.
a pool of reporters through the assumed responsibility for the tary training from the enduring See BRIEF pg. 9
7

8. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux, 1st AATF PAO
First Lieutenant Dustin Vincent, (center), mission commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Gabriel Espinosa, senior enlisted Soldier of 1st Bat-
talion, 5th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, ask Emergency Services Unit Maj. Ahmad Moham-
mad, combined check point commander, about CCP operations during a validation inspection conducted at a checkpoint in Kirkuk, Iraq, Aug.
Verify and Secure: Field Artillery Soldiers aid Kirkuk
through checkpoint validations
Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux “These CCPs ensure Violent Extremist through the CCPs at different times of day
1st Advise and Assist Task Force Networks targeting U.S. forces and Iraqi to get fresh eyes on any changes that might
1st Inf. Div., USD - N Security Forces can’t use the main roads to affect force protection,” said Gregory.
smuggle illegal weapons through the city,” “The Iraqi Security Forces, comprised
CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE said Capt. Gregory Arrowsmith, chief of op- of the CSF and the ESU, man the CCPs 24
WARRIOR, Iraq – Soldiers of Battery A, 1st erations, 1st Bn., 5th FA Regt. “The protec- hours-a-day,” said 1st Lt. Dustin Vincent, a
Battalion, 5th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st tion of Kirkuk and COS Warrior hinges on platoon leader and mission commander for
Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry the security of the … routes into the city.” Battery A. “We go out to each checkpoint …
Division, assessed the security of the main U.S. forces, partnered with other ISF to assist their operations, monitor progress,
routes into Kirkuk during a combined check- elements, maintained the checkpoints ear- and go over the questions on the checklist. It
point validation patrol conducted at CCPs lier this year, said Gregory, a field artillery is also an opportunity to improve their CCP
throughout Kirkuk, Aug. 30. officer from Livonia, Mich. Currently, the operations (and make their) force protection
The Soldiers conducted the validation Combined Security Force, an integrated unit methods more efficient.”
checks as a force protection operation de- of Iraqi Police, Iraqi Army and Kurdish Se- The checklist is a two page list of ques-
signed to monitor and verify the progress of curity Forces, man the checkpoints. An en- tions and reminders that must be validated by
the Combined Security Forces and Emergen- tire battery from 1st Bn., 5th FA Regt., was both the U.S. officer in charge and the Chief
cy Services Units. assigned to ensure the CCPs have what they of the CCP covering areas such as ammo,
Soldiers ensure the Iraqis are using the need and report any shortfalls the ISF may current personnel and supply concerns.
correct tactics, techniques and procedures at have. “We normally spend an hour or more at
the CCPs. The transfer of authority of the CCPs to each location. We have a validation process
The validation also verifies the Iraqi Se- ISF control was a goal of Operation New we go by with our counterparts,” said Vin-
curity Forces are capable of maintaining Dawn and the advise, train, and assist mis- cent, who hails from Dallas.
an enduring checkpoint presence after U.S. sion conducted by the 1st AATF after their The progress of the ISF has enabled
forces withdraw from Contingency Operat- arrival to northern Iraq. U.S. Soldiers to conduct considerably fewer
ing Site Warrior. “We normally cycle different platoons checks over the past year, said Vincent.
8

9. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
‘Outlaws’ keep peace in Kirkuk
Spc. Crystal Hudson
29th MPAD
USD - N Public Affairs
CONTINGENCY OPERAT-
ING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq –
Every day, Soldiers assigned
to 1st Battalion, 5th Field Ar-
tillery Regiment, 1st Advise
and Assist Task Force, 1st In-
fantry Division, provide pa-
trols in the area surrounding
Contingency Operating Site
Warrior, Iraq.
During these counter im-
provised rocket assisted mu-
nitions missions, “Outlaw”
Soldiers spend 12 hours a day
roaming the streets of Kirkuk
City, gathering information
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Crystal Hudson, 29th MPAD
about possible threats and pro-
viding a visible presence in an Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry
Division, conduct an interview with an Iraqi citizen during a patrol of Kirkuk, Iraq, Aug. 26, 2011. The artil-
effort to deter violence against lery Soldiers spend 12 hours patrolling the areas outside of Contingency Operating Site Warrior, Iraq.
U.S. forces and the people of
Kirkuk province. document changes and inter- in laundry or eat at the dining Just outside the gate, the ar-
“This is not like any other view civilians. facility due to the long hours, tillerymen spotted suspicious
deployment,” said 1st Lt. “Our mission is to deter Vincent said. holes on the side of the road
Dustin Vincent, platoon leader IRAM attacks by our pres- When not actively patrol- while on patrol August 26. The
with 1st Bn., 5th FA Regt., and ence,” said Cpl. Cory Bell, ling the streets of Kirkuk, the platoon dismounted in order
Dallas native, explaining that artilleryman with 1st Bn., 5th Soldiers of 1st Bn., 5th FA to talk to people digging the
many of his noncommissioned FA Regt., and Amarillo, Texas Regt., set up observation posts holes and discerned that they
officers spent previous deploy- native. overlooking the city, Vincent were contracted to put signs up
ments during Operation Iraqi Bell added that there are said. on the side of the road.
Freedom actively pursuing in- challenges to having such a re- The Soldiers have an inti- Since the Outlaws took
surgent activity, and needed to petitive mission. Knowing the mate knowledge of the areas over the IRAM mission in
adjust focus for the U.S. mis- impact of their job keeps the they patrol; a new hole in the July, there have been no rocket
sion in support of Operation platoon focused, he said. ground or change in the land- attacks in their patrol area, ac-
New Dawn. The Soldiers work hard to scape is easily noticed as a cording to Vincent, who con-
Every day, Soldiers of balance their mission require- potential IED because of all cluded, “The fear of getting
“Outlaw” platoon patrol, in- ments, but often have little or the time they’ve spent in this caught stops a lot of people
vestigate suspicious activity, no time to get haircuts, turn environment, he added. from acting.”
BRIEF cont'd from pg. 7 Courtney Kube of NBC News asked “We are proceeding with all the pa-
“We have since transitioned, and now Winski if U.S. forces remaining in northern rameters of the security agreement, and
have a long-term sustainable security Iraq will leave by Dec. 31, or will the units our successors are proceeding with a
solution implemented in all those areas replacing 4th AAB be required “to maintain number of base transitions and some of
where the Iraqis and the Kurds are secur- some sort of presence to help train?” the training transitions …, but again,”
ing bilaterally now … and are doing so As Long Knife Soldiers return to their he explained, “the security agreement
quite effectively,” he added. Families awaiting their arrival at Fort Hood, parameters are clear, and everything is
Following his opening remarks, the Texas, Winski said U.S. forces will contin- proceeding to comply with the param-
Long Knife commander opened the ses- ue their mission to transition U.S. bases to eters of the security agreement, barring
sion to questions from the reporters gath- Iraqi control and support the ISF, providing a decision at the Iraqi government and
ered in Washington, D.C. assistance and over watch if requested. U.S. government-level.”
9

10. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
1st AATF hosts partnership dinner
Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux mote cooperation and unity.”
1st AATF Public Affairs The key leaders hoped to
1st Inf. Div., USD - N mingle with everyone without
the pressures of a structured
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- forum. The dinner provided
ING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq an opportunity for attendees
– The 1st Advise and Assist to speak with each other about
Task Force, 1st Infantry Di- progress in Kirkuk province,
vision, and Kirkuk Provincial continued Pappal, a native of
Reconstruction Team wel- Creekside, Pa.
comed government, military, Dr. Najmaldin Karim, Pro-
and religious leaders to the 8th vincial Governor of Kirkuk,
Annual Partnership Dinner at was one of the first to arrive to
Contingency Operating Site help set the tone and purpose
Warrior, Iraq, Aug. 24. of the evening.
The dinner provided an “I feel good to be at the site
opportunity to enhance civic of such a wondrous gather-
relationships and cooperation ing,” said Najmaldin. “A so- U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux, 1st AATF PAO
among U.S. forces, and the cial dinner like this will help
Colonel Michael Pappal, commander, 1st Advise and Assist Task
administrative and political make the guests feel more at Force, 1st Infantry Division, welcomes Mullah Mustafa Hussein, direc-
leadership of Kirkuk province. ease.” tor of the Sunni Endowment in Kirkuk, to the 8th Annual Partnership
“Our support for the city of These dinners have been Dinner hosted at Contingency Operating Site Warrior, Iraq, Aug. 24,
Kirkuk goes beyond military 2011. The dinner provided an opportunity for attendees to enhance
fruitful in the past in promot-
civic relationships and cooperation among U.S. forces and the admin-
operations,” said Col. Michael ing goodwill between the vari- istrative and political leadership of Kirkuk province.
Pappal, 1st AATF commander ous ethnicities and political
and host of the event. “Many groups in Kirkuk, said Na- years.” Mohammad Korsheed, dep-
military, political and reli- jmaldin. “The results of co- Other key leaders of the uty chairman of the Kurdish
gious leaders representing the operation between us and the Kirkuk province, included: Democratic Party; Tahsen
diverse culture of the province American forces will continue Imad Yochanna, Chief of the Kehaya, member of the Pro-
have all gathered here to pro- to be seen in the following Christian Democratic Party; vincial Council and the Shia/
Turcoman Political Party and
Mullah Mustafa Hussein, pro-
vincial director of the Sunni
Endowment and Imam in
Kirkuk.
“The Kirkuk people have
had no problems getting along
with one another,” said Mullah
Mustafa. “We have been living
like this for many years. It is
groups outside of our province
that want us to fight with each
other.”
The dinner is the eighth
time the leaders have met like
this, continued Mustafa.
“The terrorists hate when
we work together,” said Mus-
tafa. “I hope this isn’t the last
time we have one of these
(partnership dinners). Many
U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Sara Wakai, 1st AATF PAO
of us are here in heart, not just
Provincial Governor of Kirkuk Dr. Najmaldin Karim, center, speaks with other political and military leaders
during the 8th Annual Partnership Dinner hosted by the 1st AATF at COB Warrior, Iraq, Aug. 24, 2011. “The
in person, and we want to con-
relaxed atmosphere of a social dinner was conducive for many organizations within the province,” said tinue to make Kirkuk wonder-
Najmaldin. “It is wonderful to see so many different groups socialize together and smile.” ful.”
10

11. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
Hey Doc: I am worried about my battle buddy ...
Maj. Samuel Preston and talking about death, “not caring,” or 3. ESCORT them safely to the
Spc. Katy Palis loss of interest in activities that use to chain of command, to medical person-
USD - N Division Behavioral bring joy like sporting events, games, nel, or a chaplain ASAP. If the Soldier
Health Section friends. is unwilling to seek help, recruit oth-
ers to contact the chain of com-
“My battle buddy has isolated mand. DO NOT leave a Soldier
himself in the past week, seems alone if you think he or she is
more depressed than usual, and having thoughts of hurting him-
keeps talking about 'after he is self or herself or someone else.
gone.'” The VA suicide hotline is
-Signed, Concerned Soldier staffed 24 hours a day, 365
days-a-year. The number is
Dear “Concerned Soldier,” 809-463-3376. After the dial
It’s good you know your battle tone, key in 1-800-273-TALK,
buddy well enough to notice a or while in Iraq, dial 1-2-3 on
change in his behavior, and you a DSN phone. This service is
want to help him. The immediate for Soldiers, battle buddies, or
and most important thing to do Family members who are con-
is talk to your battle buddy. Let We all have ACE cards; these items cerned about suicide and want
him know that he is not alone. Tell are not a waste of trees, ink, and space to do something about it.
him you noticed the recent changes, in our wallets. They are a constant re- September is Suicide Prevention
are concerned about him, and willing minder of what to do when it looks Awareness Month. There will be a
to help get him to the right person for like someone is at risk for suicide. variety of events occurring all month
support. A.C.E.: Ask, Care, and Escort: to help raise awareness and build re-
Investigations following suicides 1. Don’t be afraid. ASK the person lationships necessary to eliminate
reveal individuals give subtle hints if they are having thoughts of suicide. suicide from our ranks. Suicide pre-
that they are losing the interest to 2. Show CARE (compassion) for vention vigilance is not just for Sep-
live. Indications someone could be him or her. Listen for cues, prompt- tember alone, but every day. We owe
thinking about suicide include giving ing you to get them to the command it to ourselves and our fellow Soldiers
away important possessions, acting or emergency services. Remove dan- to take an interest and show support.
anxious or agitated, feeling hopeless, gerous objects (weapons) if there is Keep those Taksforce Ironhorse ques-
withdrawing from friends and Family, concern about safety. tions coming.
USD-N So c ia l Me dia
To read more stories and see the photos that go with them,
as well as some videos, check out the links below. Read and
share what you see and pass along the Soldiers' stories.
www.facebook.com/4thid
www.youtube.com/the4id
www.flickr.com/photos/the4id
www.slideshare.net/the4id
www.twitter.com/4thInfDiv
11

12. The Ivy Leaf September 3, 2011
Chaplain’s Corner:
What Do you See?
Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Keith Goode us very disappointed. ences. It strengthens the
USD - N Chaplain So let’s think – what have perception of what is impor-
we gotten used to while here tant, yet makes sure that our
in Iraq? Laundry? Gatorade? outlook is not so rigid that it
Sniperhill? Mail? Container- cannot bend when stress and
ized Housing Unit? Gym? change demands it.
What have we gotten used There we find content-
to being without? Family? ment for our spirit, minds
Finances? Restaurants? Re- and bodies. We are enabled
sponsibility? to live in peace regardless
What is going to happen of what happens in our daily
to your perspective when lives, because we clearly see
things change or when re- that God is in control. With
sponsibilities return? When this perception, it is not the
the heart, mind, and body are end of the world when the
distracted by ruined expec- Internet in the CHU is turned
tations, the opportunity for off, the redeployment date is
disappointment is very real. delayed, or the relationship at
When perceptions of life are home is strained. In our per-
jumbled and confused, it is sonal and professional lives,
possible to become disap- faith informs us and we know
pointed with life itself. Look to be thankful for what we
again at your life and ask, are given today, and we trust
“Is my perception of life the Lord will provide what
realistic enough to adjust to is best tomorrow – content-
the changes that are certainly ment.
coming, or am I doomed to Does that mean we will
despair?” experience no pain or disap-
We read in the Bible this pointment? No, but we
What do you see in this life is a very good thing. It verse from First Timothy will be empowered to react
picture? Is there a cup or would be a miserable thing, 6:6-8: "But Godliness with to those difficulties with a
perhaps two faces? Which if every morning, we had contentment is great gain. realistic expectation that sees
one do you see first? Can you to learn all over again how For we brought nothing into beyond the trouble and looks
even tell the difference? to tie shoelaces on a pair of the world, and we can take to the Lord for the solution.
In part, perception can be combat boots or if we found nothing out of it. But if we We look through the difficul-
described as what our mind ourselves wandering around have food and clothing, we ties with the perspective of
“sees,” regardless the facts looking for the dining facility will be content with that." hope.
that are before us. We expect because it was moved every When perceptions are So the goal is to keep the
to see the things we do night. Being able to settle altered, the secret to living a proper perspective in your
because that is what we have into a routine is part of what non-frustrated life is con- life; that is, making sure you
always seen, or it is what we keeps us resilient and helps tentment with God and with are “seeing” what is really
have hoped to see, or it is us manage the other stressors what God has given. there. Already, there have
what we have been told we’ll that we face in our duties When we spend our days been too many among us
see. Our past experiences, each day. At this point in the focusing on our relationship lose perspective, and that has
through training, education, deployment, though, it would with the Almighty, we devel- led some to make choices
expectations, relationships, be good to take stock of our op an eternal perspective that that have resulted in greater
etc., shape us for good or perceptions and how changes naturally affects daily expec- pain and loss. As we come
bad, to deal with the daily in the routine might affect tations. A life of faith in God to the last pages of the final
details of our lives. our lives. Failure to do so wonderfully shapes those chapter, don’t let that be you!
All things considered, a may catch us by surprise and expectations we depend on to Look closely – what do you
strong, healthy perception of ruin our perception, leaving make sense of daily experi- see?
12