Today's Pic's Tuesday, March 07, 2006

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USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently underway in the Atlantic Ocean participating in Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is an intermediate-level strike group exercise designed to forge the strike group into a cohesive, fighting team. COMPTUEX is a critical step in the pre-deployment training cycle. U.S. Navy Illustration by Draftsman 2nd Class Sabrina Parker
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USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently underway in the Atlantic Ocean participating in Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is an intermediate-level strike group exercise designed to forge the strike group into a cohesive, fighting team. COMPTUEX is a critical step in the pre-deployment training cycle. U.S. Navy Illustration by Draftsman 2nd Class Sabrina Parker
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Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Rob Gaston, takes digital photographs from a MH-60S Seahawk helicopter assigned to the "Bay Raiders" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Two Eight (HSC-28) during a replenishment. USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently underway conducting Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Devonte Jones


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Squadron personnel conduct routine morning operations as they pass through the Strait of Gibraltar aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). Roosevelt and embarked Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8) are underway on a regularly scheduled deployment conducting maritime security operations. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Javier Capella
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Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Kenneth Akers observes as ship security personnel enter the foc'sle aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during a tactical movement training exercise. Lincoln and embarked Carrier Air Wing Two (CVW-2) are deploying on a six-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman James R. Evans
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Fifty-caliber machine-gun Mount Captain, Aviation Ordnanceman Mark Hubbard awaits orders before participating in a Pre-aim Calibration Fire (PACFIRE) off of the fantail aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln and embarked Carrier Air Wing Two (CVW-2) are deploying on a six-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Timothy C. Roache Jr.
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An E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the "Tigertails" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron One Two Five (VAW-125) taxi on the flight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Eisenhower is underway conducting Tailored Ship's Training Availability/Final Evaluation Period. U.S. Navy photo by Lithographer 3rd Class Sharay Bennett
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An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the "Wildcats" of Strike Fighter Squadron One Three One (VFA-131), prepare to land aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Eisenhower is underway conducting Tailored Ship's Training Availability/Final Evaluation Period. U.S. Navy photo by Lithographer 3rd Class Sharay Bennett
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A landing signalman enlisted directs a landing of a SH-60 Seahawk helicopter, assigned to the "Bay Raiders" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Two Eight (HSC-28) onto the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently underway conducting Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Milosz Reterski
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A Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) loaded with equipment from the 31st Marine Service Support Group (MSSG) makes its way toward the stern gate of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49). The joint efforts of more than 500 AFP and U.S. medical, dental, engineer and protection personnel were able to bring medical and dental support to more than 11,000 Filipino people and 504 animals, along with building four elementary schools. Harpers Ferry and Elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are participating in Balikatan 2006, an annual bilateral combined Republic of the Philippines and U. S. military exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class Brian P. Biller
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A member of Beachmaster Unit One, (BMU-1) Detachment Western Pacific guides a Landing Caraft, Air Cushion (LCAC) onto the beach to load U.S. service members and equipment assigned to the 31st Marine Service Support Group (MSSG). The joint efforts of more than 500 AFP and U.S. medical, dental, engineer and protection personnel were able to bring medical and dental support to more than 11,000 Filipino people and 504 animals, along with building four elementary schools. USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) and Elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are participating in Balikatan 2006, an annual bilateral combined Republic of the Philippines and U. S. military exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class Brian P. Biller
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Townspeople from the local village of Tiptipon gather near the beach to bid farewell to U.S. service members assigned to the 31st Marine Service Support Group (MSSG) following a Civil Action Project in their village. The joint efforts of more than 500 AFP and U.S. medical, dental, engineer and protection personnel were able to bring medical and dental support to more than 11,000 Filipino people and 504 animals, along with building four elementary schools. Harpers Ferry and Elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are participating in Balikatan 2006, an annual bilateral combined Republic of the Philippines and U.S. military exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class Brian P. Biller
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Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Service Support Group (MSSG) load equipment on a Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) on the island of Jolo, before heading out toward the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49). The joint efforts of more than 500 AFP and U.S. medical, dental, engineer and protection personnel were able to bring medical and dental support to more than 11,000 Filipino people and 504 animals, along with building four elementary schools. Harpers Ferry and Elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are participating in Balikatan 2006, an annual bilateral combined Republic of the Philippines and U.S. military exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class Brian P. Biller
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Staff Sgt. David Lyle, from Task Force Marshall, trains Sailors in urban warefare tactics at the South Carolina Army National Guard’s McCrady Training Center. Photo by Chris Rasmussen.
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Pfc. Richard Enz, from the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, provides security for fellow Soldiers as they search for weapons caches and terrorists in Mosul, Iraq. Photo by Tech. Sgt. John Foster.
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Soldiers from the 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division await air transport back to base after a successful operation in Remagen, Iraq. Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Shawn Hussong.
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Marines with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment cross a bridge to an island in Alus, Iraq, during Operation Minotaur Feb. 26, 2006. The Marines searched for weapons caches, spoke with locals and searched for insurgents. The operation was aimed at clearing more than nine kilometers of riverbank and several small villages south of Haqlaniyah – a town along the Euphrates River in Al Anbar Province. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Adam C. Schnell
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U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Patrick D. Guild digs for a possible hidden weapons cache while Lance Cpl. Casey W. Beeman, metal detector in hand, watches. Both Marines, infantrymen with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, were looking for hidden weapons caches in Alus, Iraq, during Operation Minotaur Feb. 26, 2006. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Adam C. Schnell
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U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Patrick D. Guild, a Marine infantryman and team leader with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, talks to a local villager during Operation Minotaur in Khaffajiyah, Iraq, Feb. 26, 2006. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Adam C. Schnell
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U.S. Marines walk up a hill while sweeping for weapons caches near the Euphrates River in Khaffajiyah, Iraq, during Operation Minotaur Feb. 26, 2006. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Adam C. Schnell

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An Iraqi worker cleans a damaged restaurant at the scene of a car bomb explosion on March 7, 2006 in Zaafraniya district of Baghdad, Iraq. A car bomb exploded on March 7, 2006 when a U.S military patrol passed by in Zaafraniya district of Baghdad. The blast injured 5 civilian bystanders. (Photo by Wathiq Khuzaie /***** Images)
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Iraqis gather at the scene of a car bomb explosion on March 7, 2006 in Zaafraniya district of Baghdad, Iraq. A car bomb exploded on March 7, 2006 when a U.S military patrol passed by in Zaafraniya district of Baghdad. The blast injured 5 civilian bystanders. (Photo by Wathiq Khuzaie /***** Images)
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U.S soldiers secure the scene of a car bomb explosion on March 7, 2006 in Zaafraniya district of Baghdad, Iraq. A car bomb exploded on March 7, 2006 when a U.S military patrol passed by in Zaafraniya district of Baghdad. The blast injured 5 civilian bystanders. (Photo by Wathiq Khuzaie /***** Images)
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A U.S soldier stands guard at the scene of a car bomb explosion on March 7, 2006 in Zaafraniya district of Baghdad, Iraq. A car bomb exploded on March 7, 2006 when a U.S military patrol passed by in Zaafraniya district of Baghdad. The blast injured 5 civilian bystanders. (Photo by Wathiq Khuzaie /***** Images)
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An Iraqi speaks with a US soldier and a translator at the site where a car bomb exploded in Baghdad's Zaafraniya district, 07 March 2006. Iraq's political deadlock deepened as the dominant Shiite United Iraqi Alliance (UIA) opposed efforts by President Jalal Talabani to convene parliament amid bickering over who should lead the next 'national unity' government. The dispute came amid increasing violence which today morning saw at least eight killed and 22 wounded in a series of attacks, five involving car bombs. AFP PHOTO/AHMAD AL-RUBAYE (Photo credit should read AHMAD AL-RUBAYE/AFP/***** Images)
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An Iraqi policeman secures the site where a car bomb exploded in Baghdad's Zaafraniya district, 07 March 2006. Iraq's political deadlock deepened as the dominant Shiite United Iraqi Alliance (UIA) opposed efforts by President Jalal Talabani to convene parliament amid bickering over who should lead the next 'national unity' government. The dispute came amid increasing violence which today morning saw at least eight killed and 22 wounded in a series of attacks, five involving car bombs. AFP PHOTO/AHMAD AL-RUBAYE (Photo credit should read AHMAD AL-RUBAYE/AFP/***** Images)
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The carriage carrying The President of the Federal Republic of Brazil, His Excellency Mr Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and HM Queen Elizabeth II is seen as they take part in a carriage procession along the Mall to Buckingham Palace where they will enjoy lunch during their State Visit to the UK on March 7, 2006 in London, England. The Brazilian couple are staying at the Brazilian Residence and Buckingham Palace during their stay as guests of the Queen. (Photo by Chris Jackson/***** Images)
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Home Secretary Charles Clarke arrives for a ceremony at Horse Guards Parade on March 7, 2006 in London, England. The Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his wife attended a ceremonial welcome at Horse Guards parade by the Prime Minister and the Queen Elizabeth II during his 3 day state visit to England. (Photo by Daniel Berehulak/***** Images)
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The President of the Federal Republic of Brazil, His Excellency Mr Luiz Inacio da Silva, his wife Senhora Marisa Leticia Lula da Silva, (C) HRH Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh (L) arrive by carriage for lunch at Buckingham Palace during their State Visit to the UK on March 7, 2006 in London, England. The Brazilian couple are staying at the Brazilian Residence and Buckingham Palace during their stay as guests of HM The Queen. (Photo by Anwar Hussein/***** Images)
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A demonstrator gestures during a rally against Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra at Sanam Luang in Bangkok March 7, 2006. A Thai police general said on Tuesday he had urged Thaksin to agree to step aside after the April 2 snap election to ease the country's growing political crisis.
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An unidentified man holds a gun to his head threatening to kill himself outside a kindergarten in the northern German town of Hamburg March 7, 2006. Police were at the scene, but there is no immediate explanation for his action.
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Sudanese women holding placards demonstrate against the deployment of foreign troops in the Darfur region, outside the U.S. embassy in Khartoum March 7, 2006. Some 200 Sudanese students demonstrated on Tuesday urging the United Nations to leave their country and calling it a colonial force, days ahead of a decision to deploy U.N. troops to the Darfur region.
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French students demonstrate against the terms of a new youth contract for first-time job seekers, as they march through Paris March 7, 2006.
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Villagers work at a stone quarry on the outskirts of Jagdalpur, in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh March 7, 2006. Although India is expected to grow at more than 7 percent in the year ending March 2006, with finance planners in New Delhi highlighting its record foreign reserves, rising middle class incomes and booming stock market, around 26 percent of its population, 260 million people, live below the poverty line.
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A Marine with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's Maritime Special Purpose Force covers his "wounded" comrade during an early-morning raid on Guam Feb. 8. The raid was conducted as part of the MEU's Training in an Urban Environment Exercise.
Photo by:Cpl. Will Lathrop
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A Marine with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's Maritime Special Purpose Force maintains security during an early-morning raid on Guam Feb. 8. The raid was conducted as part of the MEU's Training in an Urban Environment Exercise.
Photo by:Cpl. Will Lathrop
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Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's Maritime Special Purpose Force move to security positions during an early-morning raid on Guam Feb. 8. The raid was conducted as part of the MEU's Training in an Urban Environment Exercise.
Photo by:Cpl. Will Lathrop

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In this photo provided by Christian Peacemaker Teams, Tom Fox, seated right, 54, of Clear Brook, Va., is shown at a summer camp in an undated photo. Arab television broadcast a new videotape Tuesday, March 7, 2006 showing three Christian peace activists taken hostage in Iraq last year, but Fox was not seen in the footage. (AP Photo/Christian Peacemaker Teams Iraq, File)
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An Iraqi soldier climbs into a truck waiting for distribution at the Iraqi Army's national supply center at Taji air base 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. Despite aggressive American training in combat operations, the Iraqi Army has been plagued by supply and pay problems. (AP Photo/Jacob Silberberg)
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An Iraqi Army paymaster counts out a fellow soldier's monthly wages, equivalent to about $300, at Taji air base 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. Despite aggressive American training in combat operations, the Iraqi Army has been plagued by supply and pay problems. (AP Photo/Jacob Silberberg)
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An Iraqi girl carrying a plastic container goes with her relative to market to buy gasoline, in Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. Frequent curfews and explosions in Baghdad and surrounding areas have increased the shortage of fuel and other essential items. (AP Photo/Mohammed Hato)
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Qais al-Sharaa cuts the hair of a customer in his barbershop in Baghdad, as brother-in-law Jassim Moussawi, left, and cleaner Rassoul Eidi walk behind, Feb. 19, 2006. Al-Sharaa's shop sits on the corner of Firdous Square only meters from the spot where the most lasting image of the Iraq invasion unfolded _ U.S. Marines hauling down a statue of the fallen ruler on April 9, 2003. (AP Photo/Hadi Mizban)
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Iraqi women holds a poster of Iraqi prime minister Ibrahim Al-Jaafari during a pro-Jaafari demonstration, in Basra, Iraq's second-largest city, 550 kilometers (340 miles) southeast of Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. Iraq's president failed in a bid to order parliament into session by March 12, further delaying formation of a government. (AP Photo/ Nabil Al-Juarni)
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Iraqi children gather near a destroyed car after a car bomb attack in Baquba, March 7, 2006. *******/Helmiy al-Azawi
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Palestinians protest in the West Bank city of Ramallah, in support of the release of foreign hostages being held in Iraq, in December 2005. Two Canadians and a Briton working for a Christian peace group kidnapped in Iraq three months ago issued a new plea for their release, according to a video broadcast on Al-Jazeera.(AFP/File/Jamal Aruri)
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A candle lit vigil is held by foreign Christian Peacemaker Teams activists and Palestinians in the divided West Bank town of Hebron for the four members of CPT. Two Canadians and a Briton working for a Christian peace group kidnapped in Iraq about three months ago pleaded for help from Gulf leaders, according to a video broadcast on Al-Jazeera .(AFP/File/Hazem Bader)
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A man injured by a car bomb blast is taken to hospital, in Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. At least seven people were reported killed and 11 injured Tuesday in scattered bombings, mortar and gun fire in Iraq's beleaguered capital, police said. Iraq's president failed in a bid to order parliament into session by March 12, further delaying formation of a government and raising questions whether the political process can withstand the unrelenting violence or disintegrate into civil war. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim)
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Iraqs view the wreckage of a car bomb blast in Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. At least seven people were reported killed and 11 injured Tuesday, in scattered bombings, mortar and gun fire in Iraq's beleaguered capital, police said, as Iraq's president failed in a bid to order parliament into session by March 12, further delaying formation of a government and raising questions whether the political process can withstand the unrelenting violence or disintegrate into civil war. (AP Photo/Mohammed Hato)
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U.S. soldiers leave from the site of a car bomb blast after doing preliminary investigations, in Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. At least seven people were reported killed and 11 injured Tuesday in scattered bombings, mortar and gun fire in Iraq's beleaguered capital, police said, as Iraq's president failed in a bid to order parliament into session by March 12, further delaying formation of a government and raising questions whether the political process can withstand the unrelenting violence or disintegrate into civil war.(AP Photo/Mohammed Hato)
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A man injured by a car bomb blast recovers in a hospital, in Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. At least seven people were reported killed and 11 injured Tuesday in scattered bombings, mortar and gun fire in Iraq's beleaguered capital, police said, as Iraq's president failed in a bid to order parliament into session by March 12, further delaying formation of a government and raising questions whether the political process can withstand the unrelenting violence or disintegrate into civil war.(AP Photo/Mohammed Hato)
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A family walks past the site of a car bomb blast, in Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. At least seven people were reported killed and 11 injured Tuesday in scattered bombings, mortar and gun fire in Iraq's beleaguered capital, police said, as Iraq's president failed in a bid to order parliament into session by March 12, further delaying formation of a government and raising questions whether the political process can withstand the unrelenting violence or disintegrate into civil war. (AP Photo/Mohammed Hato)
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An Iraqi man walks past unexploded ordnance next to the wreckage of a car bomb blast, in Baghdad,Iraq, Tuesday, March 7, 2006.At least seven people were reported killed and 11 injured Tuesday in scattered bombings, mortar and gun fire in Iraq's beleaguered capital, police said, as Iraq's president failed in a bid to order parliament into session by March 12, further delaying formation of a government and raising questions whether the political process can withstand the unrelenting violence or disintegrate into civil war.(AP Photo/Mohammed Hato)
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Iraqi firemen extinguish a fire after a car exploded in Basra, 550 Km (341miles) south of Baghdad, March 6, 2006. Police said four persons were wounded in the blast and they are still determining the cause of the explosion. Picture taken March 6, 2006. *******/Atef Hassan
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An Iraqi soldier secures the site where a car was destroyed in an unknown explosion in the southern city of Basra. Most Americans believe the sectarian violence in Iraq is building up to a civil war, and more than half think US troops should begin to withdraw from that country, according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll published.(AFP/Essam Al Sudani)
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A car burns after it exploded in Basra, 550 Km (341miles) south of Baghdad, March 6, 2006. Police said four persons were wounded in the blast and they are still determining the cause of the explosion. Picture taken March 6, 2006. *******/Atef Hassan
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A U.S. soldier (R) talks to an Iraqi man near the scene of a car bomb attack in Baghdad March 7, 2006. A civilian was killed and his wife was wounded when a car bomb struck at a U.S. patrol in western Baghdad, police said. *******/Thaier al-Sudani
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Iraqi residents walk on a road near the scene of a car bomb attack in Baghdad March 7, 2006. A civilian was killed and his wife was wounded when a car bomb struck at a U.S. patrol in western Baghdad, police said. *******/Thaier al-Sudani
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Iraqi firemen hose down a car after a car bomb attack in Baghdad March 7, 2006. A civilian was killed and his wife was wounded when a car bomb struck at a U.S. patrol in western Baghdad, police said. *******/Thaier al-Sudani
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Wreckage of a car used as a car bomb lies on a street after an attack in Baghdad March 7, 2006. A civilian was killed and his wife was wounded when a car bomb struck at a U.S. patrol in western Baghdad, police said. *******/Thaier al-Sudani
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British troops prepare to go on patrol in Basra. Britain will pull most of its troops from Iraq by the middle of 2008 under a phased withdrawal that could begin within months, Britain's top army officer there said in an interview(AFP/File/Essam Al-Sudani)
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Australian Defence Minister Brendan Nelson (2nd L) meets Australian soldiers at the Al Muthanna Task Group base at Camp Smitty in southern Iraq, March 5, 2006. Australia has committed its forces to remain in Iraq into 2007, media reports said on March 7, 2006. Picture taken March 5, 2006. EDITORIAL USE ONLY *******/Australian Department of Defence/Handout
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Iraqi police inspect ammunitions recovered near a mosque in Basra, 341miles south of Baghdad March 6, 2006. *******/Atef Hassan
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Australian Defence Minister Brendan Nelson (C) and the Australian Joint Task Force Commander Brigadier Paul Symon (L) arrive at the Al Muthanna Task Group base at Camp Smitty in southern Iraq, March 5, 2006. Australia has committed its forces to remain in Iraq into 2007, media reports said on March 7, 2006. Picture taken March 5, 2006. EDITORIAL USE ONLY SOLDIER'S FACE MASKED AT SOURCE *******/Australian Department of Defence/Handout
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British soldiers stand near the body of their comrade killed in Amara about 230 miles southeast of Baghdad February 28, 2006. Britain plans to pull out nearly all its soldiers from Iraq by the summer of 2008, with the first withdrawals within weeks, a top military commander said in an interview published on Tuesday. *******/Salah Thani
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An Iraqi soldier holds a weapon aboard a tank in Baghdad March 6, 2006. *******/Mohammed Ameen
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An Iraqi woman walks past the wreckage of a car following an explosion in Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, March 6, 2006. A series of explosions rocked the Iraqi Monday, killing at least four people, wounding 20 and ending a relative lull in bombings over the past several days days. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim)
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An Iraqi man walks past a burning car, in Basra, 550 kilometers (340 miles) southeast of Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, March 6, 2006. Two men were burned to death in their car after shootout with Iraqi police in the southern city Monday, and security officials said the victims were British citizens. In London, a foreign official spokesman said he was aware of unsubstantiated reports of an incident involving non-Arabs. (AP Photo /Nabil Al-Jurani)
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Iraqi fire fighters try to extinguish a fire in a car, in Basra, 550 kilometers (340 miles) southeast of Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, March 6, 2006. Two men were burned to death in their car after shootout with Iraqi police in the southern city Monday, and security officials said the victims were British citizens. In London, a foreign official spokesman said he was aware of unsubstantiated reports of an incident involving non-Arabs. (AP Photo /Nabil Al-Jurani)
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Iraqi people view a burned car, in Basra, 550 kilometers (340 miles) southeast of Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, March 6, 2006. Two men were burned to death in their car after shootout with Iraqi police in the southern city Monday, and security officials said the victims were British citizens. In London, a foreign official spokesman said he was aware of unsubstantiated reports of an incident involving non-Arabs. (AP Photo /Nabil Al-Jurani)
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Iraqis comfort each other during the funeral of Sheikh Tarek Abdullah Ibrahim al-Obeidi of the powerful Obeidi tribe in the northern city of Kirkuk. Al-Obeidi was killed in a roadside bomb in the Sunni rebel bastion in Hawijah, northern Iraq. At least 13 people were killed Monday in a series of bombings and shootings across Iraq as US-led coalition forces were accused of widespread human rights abuses in the strife-torn country.(AFP/Marwan Ibrahim)

[Adumb]

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U.S. President George W. Bush makes remarks about Women's History Month in the East Room at the White House March 7, 2006 in Washington, DC. The president delivered remarks about Women's History Month and welcomed a delegations of women from both Iraq and Afghanistan. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/***** Images)
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HIRES (http://www.defendamerica.mil/images/photos/mar2006/index/Hires/060306-A-2718K-003.jpg)

U.S. Army soldiers from the 4th Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment perform calibration fires with a howitzer in Mosul, Iraq, March 6, 2006.
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U.S. Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Service Support Group load equipment on a Landing Craft, Air Cushion on the island of Jolo, Philippines, March 3, 2006, before heading out toward the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry. The joint efforts of more than 500 American and Filipino medical, dental, engineer and protection personnel were able to bring medical and dental support to more than 11,000 Filipino people and 504 animals, along with building four elementary schools. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian P. Biller
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U.S. Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Service Support Group continue to load equipment on a Landing Craft, Air Cushion on the island of Jolo, Philippines, March 3, 2006, before heading out toward the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian P. Biller
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U.S. Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Service Support Group continue to load equipment on a Landing Craft, Air Cushion on the island of Jolo, Philippines, March 3, 2006, before heading out toward the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian P. Biller
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A Landing Craft, Air Cushion loaded with equipment from the 31st Marine Service Support Group makes its way toward the stern gate of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry in the Celebes Sea, March 3, 2006, during Balikatan 2006. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian P. Biller
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A woman shout slogans as protesters, opposed to the French government's new plan for reducing joblessness, take to the streets in Paris, Tuesday March 7, 2006. The new type of contract would make it easier for companies to fire young workers during their first two years in a job. Critics say young workers will be vulnerable and that they should benefit from the same labor protections as older workers. Makeup on her face reads: 'CPE (First Employment Contract) No.' (AP Photo/Francois Mori)
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Blood stains are seen on the floor of a railway station in Varanasi in northern India. At least 15 people died and around 60 were injured in three separate bomb attacks in the holiest Hindu city of Varanasi in northern India.(AFP)
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People and policemen stand at the site of a bomb blast at the railway station in Varanasi, India, Tuesday, March 7, 2006. Explosions rocked a packed railway station and crowded Hindu temple Tuesday in Hinduism's holiest city, and at least 12 people were killed and dozens injured, officials said. (AP Photo/Rajesh Chaurasia)
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Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (L) shakes hands with India's Foreign Minister Natwar Singh in Tehran September 3, 2005. The White House said on Tuesday it still opposes a proposed natural gas pipeline linking energy-rich Iran with India, clarifying remarks by President Bush that seemed to soften U.S. opposition to the project. *******/Morteza Nikoubazl
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Palestinian security officers march at the Palestinian Authority headquarters in the West Bank city of Ramallah on March 7, 2006. *******/Loay Abu Haykel
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Kosovo Albanian girls, their family displaced by the 1998-99 war, peer at the snow through the broken window of their makeshift home in the provincial capital Pristina, March 7, 2006. Direct Serb-Albanian negotiations to decide the future of the U.N.-run province are due to resume next week in Vienna. *******/Hazir Reka
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A supporter of the former South African Deputy President Jacob Zuma reads a newspaper outside the court in Johannesburg. Zuma's electric rape trial saw the defence grilling the alleged victim on whether she tried to seduce the accused and how she contracted HIV.(AFP/Fati Moalusi)
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South Africa's former deputy president Jacob Zuma addressing supporters, outside Johannesburg high court, in February 2006. Zuma's electric rape trial saw the defence grilling the alleged victim on whether she tried to seduce the accused and how she contracted HIV.(AFP/File/Alexander Joe)
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Palestinian security officers stand in the Palestinian Authority headquarters in the West Bank city of Ramallah March 7, 2006. *******/Loay Abu Haykel
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Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (C) and Britain's Prince Philip (R) inspect the guard of honour during a visit to Horse Guards Parade in London, March 7, 2006. Lula Da Silva is on a three-day official visit to Britain. *******/Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP/WPA/Pool
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A delegation of Palestinian women wait for a security check before meeting Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (not seen) at Palestinian Authority headquarters in the West Bank city of Ramallah March 7, 2006. *******/Loay Abu Haykel
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A young Thai boy and his parents wait for Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to arrive in Suphanburi province,140km (87 miles) west of Bangkok March 7, 2006. The heads of government electricity and water unions backing a campaign to oust Thaksin threatened on Monday to call informal strike action this week unless he quits. *******/Sukree Sukplang
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Iraqi policemen secure the site where a car exploded in the city of Hilla. Iraq was plunged into political deadlock as the dominant Shiites opposed efforts by President Jalal Talabani to convene parliament amid bickering over who should lead a government of national unity.(AFP/Qassem Zein)
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Palestinian parliament members attend the second session of the Palestinian Legislative Council in the West Bank city of Ramallah March 7, 2006. *******/Loay Abu Haykel
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Students and workers demonstrate against the French government's new plan for reducing joblessness in Lille, northern France March 7, 2006. Thousands of workers and young people started marching in France on Tuesday to protest against a youth job plan that has sent Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin's popularity tumbling. The placard reads, 'I have a dream: that one day I will get a contract employment'. *******/Pascal Rossignol
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A video grab shows people outside a temple after an explosion in Varanasi March 7, 2006. *******/ANI via ******* Television
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Volunteers hand out national flags at a rally against Thailand's Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra at Sanam Luang, Bangkok, on Tuesday March 7, 2006. Thousands of protesters gathered for the third straight evening to hear speakers denounce Thaksin for alleged corruption and abuse of power. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel)
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Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva inspects a Guard of Honour at the Horse Guards Parade in London, 7 March 2006. Lula Da Silva is on a three-day official visit to Britain. *******/John D McHugh/AFP/WPA/Pool
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Afghan security officers stand-by as a tractor eradicates opium poppies from a field in the Shinwar district of Nangarhar province, east of Kabul, Afghanistan on Monday, March. 6, 2006. Drug eradication teams tore up crops Monday in eastern Nangarhar province, where dozens of Afghan armed police blocked angry farmers from interfering with the work as U.S. and British narcotics agents hope to eradicate 20,000 hectares of this year's crop before sap is collected. Cultivation of opium poppies has increased in large chunks of Afghanistan, according to a survey by the government and the United Nations.(AP Photo)
http://www.defenselink.mil/home/images/photos/2006-03/index/20060307c.jpg
HIRES (http://www.defenselink.mil/home/images/photos/2006-03/index/Hi-Res/060303-F-2869F-056.jpg)

Iraqi army soldiers climb stairs during a joint patrol with the 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade in Mosul, Iraq, March 3, 2006. U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. John M. Foster
http://www.mod.uk/NR/rdonlyres/6C2CDCDD-6498-4981-A37D-490A58E6161F/0/rafreg1.jpg

Sergeant Jonathon Tointon (left) and Corporal Harry Jardine (right) of the Precision Attack Section of 51 Squadron RAF Regiment.
[Picture: LA (Phot) Dave Griffiths Basrah Combat Camera Team]
http://www.mod.uk/NR/rdonlyres/77030BA6-CDE4-4736-89BC-A54238A50D66/0/rafreg2.jpg

The Close Precision Attack Section of 51 Squadron RAF Regiment.
[Picture: LA (Phot) Dave Griffiths Basrah Combat Camera Team]
http://www.mod.uk/NR/rdonlyres/7D6AC384-42F5-42D3-AEC2-BE0AE20BD3B7/0/seakingres.jpg

Stranded 3000 feet up, the RAF Sea King rescue helicopter before it was recovered.
[Picture: RAF]

[Doomsayer]

are aussies also using MICH helmets ?

[Sir Zach of R.]

What's up with the MEU Marines taking the handguards off their M16s?

[scrybe]

http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/Lookup/200636225216/$file/060208-M-2061L-025LR.jpg
HIRES (http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/ae82f18a8e1b160b852568ba007e7e5e/d28264407eca92b48525712a0015440a/$FILE/060208-M-2061L-025.jpg)

http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/Lookup/20063622504/$file/060208-M-2061L-008LR.jpg
HIRES (http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/ae82f18a8e1b160b852568ba007e7e5e/6b95a96625f7a0ed8525712a00151040/$FILE/060208-M-2061L-008.jpg)

No handguards on that M16? Wonder why...

[ammotech]

No handguards on that M16? Wonder why...

They had the railed handguards with attachments (light/laser ect.) but instead of taking each item off the rail for training (if the scenario does not require it) they just removed the whole rail.

Just a guess.

[Chulo]

http://us.news3.yimg.com/us.i2.yimg.com/p/rids/20060307/i/r1479674232.jpg?x=236&y=345&sig=oQ2CRcydnlvnqr.ffiHh1w--
thats one FAT baby! .. fat, angry and hungry.. must have not gotten his milk treats

[kapral]

No handguards on that M16? Wonder why...

I suppose these are FX/simmunition training. sometimes they don't have handguards or picatinny rails

[scrybe]

I suppose these are FX/simmunition training. sometimes they don't have handguards or picatinny rails
Yea that's kind of what I was thinking. I've seen that before. It's hard to tell if it's even got a gas tube on it though. Looks like he has a butt-stock mag holder on it too....

[G-Capo]

Great images,Any more of Lula in London?

[Royal]

http://www.defendamerica.mil/images/photos/mar2006/photoessays/pi030606a3.jpg
http://cache.*****images.com/xc/57014778.jpg?v=1&c=MS_GINS&k=2&d=E3A33B54CA52535BFF86791A202B2DA1



How many times do these guys get fing taught - if you talk to someone TAKE YOUR BLOODY SHADES OFF

[Zarathustra]

good pics thanks

[kapral]

How many times do these guys get fing taught - if you talk to someone TAKE YOUR BLOODY SHADES OFF
Interesting point. Is that some kind of cultural offence to them? or just courtesy?

[Swedish Chef]

Thank you very much SS! woot

[Digital Marine]

Interesting point. Is that some kind of cultural offence to them? or just courtesy?

Common courtesy. It's also a nice gesture when they take their shades off when they talk to someone... might change their idea about the Marines/soldiers.

[BMF_EOD]

But they are also taught that eye protection can save your eyesight and is a critical piece of your "armor".

[Createdeemcee]

yup simunitions,

some of the barrels are crude and incomplete.

[Digital Marine]

But they are also taught that eye protection can save your eyesight and is a critical piece of your "armor".

That is true as well.



http://www.defenselink.mil/transformation/images/photos/2006-03/photoessays/tpi030706b3.jpg

Anyone got a highres of this one, or knows what kind of rucksack they're wearing?

[Adumb]

Anyone got a highres of this one, or knows what kind of rucksack they're wearing?
HiRes (http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/photos/060303-N-4772B-165.jpg) :)

[Digital Marine]

HiRes (http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/photos/060303-N-4772B-165.jpg) :)

Thanks!:) :)

[Royal]

But they are also taught that eye protection can save your eyesight and is a critical piece of your "armor".

If you're close enough to shake hands with a guy, eye protection does squat - if he's gonna blow himself up, you're pink mist, if the incoming is from elsewhere he's gonna get it too, so pay the poor bastard the common courtesies.

Force Protection at all costs kills more people than it saves (Fact. At least in the UK armed forces) through heat stress and increased physical and mental fatigue leading to vehicular and weapon/ammo related incidents.

[BMF_EOD]

In the last year insurgents have been placing secondary devices in the areas the expect responders to arrive after a bombing. This is a prevelant tactic that I am not worried about a suicide bomber at close range- I am worried about the artillery round 100ft + away that creates secondary rock and debri hazards. It's not really polite to talk to a guy holding an automatic weapon with body armor on either but unfortunately it is a necessity.

[charge_8]

It is policy that you shall keep eye protection on at all times while out on patrol. While the guy next to him may not blow himself up, what about another IED hidden near by in order to kill ISF or US forces after an IED attack. Don’t think for a minute that we are culturally ignorant. Our interpreters often explain why we wear the protective gear to locals. Why we sometimes turn down tea or sweets. Most of the Iraqis that I deal with (ISF and Civilian) now understand. I would rather explain my perceived cultural ignorance to an Iraqi and keep my eye site.

[Fliptape]

http://img348.imageshack.us/img348/2839/cookie0yd.jpg

[Adumb]

http://www.defendamerica.mil/images/photos/mar2006/index/ii030706g.jpg
HIRES (http://www.defendamerica.mil/images/photos/mar2006/index/Hires/060303-N-7586B-124.jpg)

U.S. Army Pfc. Brandie Leon patrols a local neighborhood in East Baghdad, Iraq, March 3, 2006, to help maintain peace after recent attacks on mosques in the area. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Bart A. Bauer
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/AmericaSupportsYou/Photos/Essay/2006-03/essays_lores/screen_20060305094411_rummy_w_ssgt_health_calhoun.jpg

Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld chats with retired Army Staff Sgt. Heath Calhoun, a 101st Airborne Division soldier wounded in Iraq, during the Vail Veterans Program.
Defense Dept. photo by Donna Miles
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/AmericaSupportsYou/Photos/Essay/2006-03/essays_lores/060304-N-0696M-300.jpg

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Joseph Worley, who lost most of his left leg in Fallujah, Iraq, September 2004, is ready to hit the slopes in Vail, Colo., March 4, 2006. The veterans gathered for Vail's Adaptive Ski Program that provided ski and snowboard classes for twenty-four servicemembers who lost limbs in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Defense Dept. photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley,
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/AmericaSupportsYou/Photos/Essay/2006-03/essays_lores/060304-N-0696M-332.jpg

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Joseph Worley, who lost most of his left leg in Fallujah, Iraq, September 2004, steadies himself with the help of an instructor after his first attempt at advancing to a mono-ski in Vail, Colo., March 4, 2006. The veterans gathered for Vail's Adaptive Ski Program that provided ski and snowboard classes for 24 servicemembers who lost limbs in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Defense Dept. photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/AmericaSupportsYou/Photos/Essay/2006-03/essays_lores/20060306123029_10_christopher_fesmire-20060306.jpg

Former Marine Sgt. Christopher Fesmire, who was medically retired from the 1st Marine Division after losing both legs above the knee in Qain, Iraq, in October 2004, whizzes down the tubing trail at Vail Mountain's Adventure Ridge during the Vail Veterans Program. Fesmire, an accomplished snowboarder before being wounded, called the Vail program "very special."
Defense Dept. photo by Donna Miles
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/AmericaSupportsYou/Photos/Essay/2006-03/essays_lores/060304-N-0696M-154.jpg

U.S. Army Sgt. Tim Gustafson prepares to hit the slopes on a "bi-ski" in Vail, Colo., March 4, 2006. The veterans gathered for Vail's Adaptive Ski Program that provided ski and snowboard classes for 24 service members who lost limbs in Iraq and Afghanistan. An improvised explosive device struck Gustafson on Jan. 24, 2005, while commanding a combat patrol on a routine clearance mission in the Diyala Province of Eastern Iraq. He suffered compound fractures and lost most of his right leg to the injury.
Defense Dept. photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/AmericaSupportsYou/Photos/Essay/2006-03/essays_lores/20060306122948_10tim_gustafson-20060306.jpg

U.S. Army Sgt. Tim Gustafson, a Tennessee National Guardsman participating in the Vail Veterans Program at Vail, Colo., gets instruction on how to traverse the slopes on a "bi-ski" from Carl Desrosiers, of the Vail Adaptive Ski Program.
Defense Dept. photo by Donna Miles
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/AmericaSupportsYou/Photos/Essay/2006-03/essays_lores/20060305094617_vets_pose_with_rumsfeld.jpg

America Supports You member Vail Resort sponsored the Vail Veterans Program March 1-5 at Vail, Colo. U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, fifth from left in blue jacket, poses with wounded troops participating in the program just before they begin their third and final day of skiing.
Defense Dept. photo by Donna Miles
http://cache.*****images.com/xc/57019187.jpg?v=1&c=MS_GINS&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF19390335F8FA9CA92A6CBED6936E27D0E09329DF394FE942516

TRH Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Charles, Prince of Wales arrive at Buckingham Palace for a State Banquet thrown by HM The Queen for the President of the Federal Republic of Brazil, His Excellency Mr Luiz Inacio da Silva and his wife Senhora Marisa Leticia Lula da Silva during their State Visit to the UK on March 7, 2006 in London, England. The Brazilian couple are staying at the Brazilian Residence and Buckingham Palace during their stay as guests of HM The Queen. (Photo by Chris Jackson/***** Images)
http://cache.*****images.com/xc/57018218.jpg?v=1&c=MS_GINS&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF19390335F8FA9CA92A64EA446DE380801F459D55AD35CA51490

An Iraqi policeman stands guard as demonstrators carry pictures of Iraq?s Prime Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari during a pro al-Jaafari rally on March 6 in Basra, Iraq. The Kurdish and Sunni minorities do not agree with the Shiite majority over their drive to keep al-Jaafari in power. (Photo by Khaldoon Zubeir / ***** Images)
http://cache.*****images.com/xc/57014981.jpg?v=1&c=MS_GINS&k=2&d=E3A33B54CA52535BB60C4584D0DFB4E8

Iraqi women demonstrate in support of embattled Prime Minister Ibrahim Jaafari during a demonstration to support him in the southern city of Basra, 07 March 2006. Iraq was plunged into political deadlock as the dominant Shiites opposed efforts by President Jalal Talabani to convene parliament amid bickering over who should lead the next government. The dispute came amid increasing violence which today morning saw at least eight killed and 22 wounded in a series of attacks, five involving car bombs. AFP PHOTO/ESSAM AL-SUDANI (Photo credit should read ESSAM AL-SUDANI/AFP/***** Images)
http://cache.*****images.com/xc/57017983.jpg?v=1&c=MS_GINS&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF1939847EC77F5F8D1CEE4E2A3162DF9B651

U.S. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld (R) gestures during a briefing with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Marine General Peter Pace, at the Pentagon March 7, 2006 in Arlington, Virginia. Secretary Rumsfeld and General Peter Pace held the briefing about the war on terrorism and recent violence in Iraq including the allegations that Iraq is nearing a civil war. (Photo by Brendan Smialowski/***** Images)
http://cache.*****images.com/xc/57017132.jpg?v=1&c=MS_GINS&k=2&d=E3A33B54CA52535B9988F195EE410BE0

US President George W. Bush(R) looks on as First Lady Laura Bush speaks during ceremonies for Women's History Month and the celebration of International Women's Day 07 March 2006 in the East Room of the White House. AFP Photo/Paul J. RICHARDS (Photo credit should read PAUL J.RICHARDS/AFP/***** Images)
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/Lookup/200637123830/$file/stresslow.jpg
HIRES (http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/ae82f18a8e1b160b852568ba007e7e5e/d3998d9aa38407f68525712a0060e8d8/$FILE/stress.jpg)

A Marine with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, provides security while role players reach out for help during cultural and combat immersion training on March 5. A Hollywood production company provided make-up, actors and explosions to help replicate combat conditions during the 24th MEUs Training in an Urban Environment exercise, taking place throughout the Hampton Roads, Va., area.
Photo by:Lance Cpl. Jeffrey A. Cosola
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/Lookup/200637123050/$file/mouthlow.jpg
HIRES (http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/ae82f18a8e1b160b852568ba007e7e5e/9fde8324c4602c1f8525712a0060350c/$FILE/mouth.jpg)

A Marine with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, reacts to an Iraqi-American role player during cultural and combat immersion training on March 5. The exercise comes during the 24th MEUs Training in an Urban Environment exercise, taking place throughout the Hampton Roads, Va., area.
Photo by:Lance Cpl. Jeffrey A. Cosola
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/Lookup/200637122646/$file/leggrablow.jpg
HIRES (http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/ae82f18a8e1b160b852568ba007e7e5e/e1c0ae5e439d53ac8525712a005fd5e4/$FILE/leggrab.jpg)

A Marine with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, provides security while role players reach out for help during cultural and combat immersion training on March 5. A Hollywood production company provided make-up, actors and explosions to help replicate combat conditions during the 24th MEUs Training in an Urban Environment exercise, taking place throughout the Hampton Roads, Va., area.
Photo by:Lance Cpl. Jeffrey A. Cosola
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/Lookup/200637122229/$file/fireballgoodlow.jpg
HIRES (http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/ae82f18a8e1b160b852568ba007e7e5e/7c41ea4b6b71c05c8525712a005f715f/$FILE/fireballgood.jpg)

Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, are surprised by a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device while on patrol in a simulated Iraqi village during cultural and combat immersion training on March 5. The exercise comes during the 24th MEU’s Training in an Urban Environment exercise, taking place throughout the Hampton Roads, Va., area.
Photo by:Lance Cpl. Jeffrey A. Cosola
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/Lookup/20063712141/$file/stickfightlow.jpg
HIRES (http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/ae82f18a8e1b160b852568ba007e7e5e/10f37a326cbb69b48525712a005eaae8/$FILE/stickfight.jpg)

A Marine with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, reacts to an Iraqi-American role player during cultural and combat immersion training on March 5. The exercise comes during the 24th MEUs Training in an Urban Environment exercise, taking place throughout the Hampton Roads, Va., area.
Photo by:Lance Cpl. Jeffrey A. Cosola

[kapral]

That is true as well.



http://www.defenselink.mil/transformation/images/photos/2006-03/photoessays/tpi030706b3.jpg

Anyone got a highres of this one, or knows what kind of rucksack they're wearing?

ILBE. It consist of Main rucksack an smaller assault one with camelbak. interesting is, that ILBE has SAPI or something similliar pockets inside :)

[Adumb]

http://www.dvidshub.net/media/thumbs/img/0603/16325.jpg
HIRES (http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=16325)

A Paratrooper from 2nd Bn, 325th AIR takes aim at an enemy sniper while clearing a rooftop during the 2nd BCT's Joint Forced Entry Exercise.
http://www.dvidshub.net/media/thumbs/img/0603/16326.jpg
HIRES (http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=16326)

A Paratrooper from 2nd Bn, 325th AIR pulls security on a rooftop after clearing it of enemy forces during the 2nd BCT's Joint Forced Entry Exercise.
http://www.dvidshub.net/media/thumbs/img/0603/16327.jpg
HIRES (http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=16327)

Paratroopers from 2nd Bn, 325th AIR search an enemy killed in action during the 2nd BCT's Joint Forced Entry Exercise.
http://www.dvidshub.net/media/thumbs/img/0603/16328.jpg
HIRES (http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=16328)

Paratroopers from 2nd Bn, 325th AIR move forward to assault an enemy stronghold during 2nd BCT's Joint Forced Entry Exercise.
http://www.dvidshub.net/media/thumbs/img/0603/16331.jpg
HIRES (http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=16331)

Command Sgt. Maj. Ronald T. Riling, Command Sergeant Major, Multi-National Division-Baghdad, engages in a game of soccer with a local child while other children take interest in the match. Riling, along with Maj. Gen. James D. Thurman, MND-B Commander made several stops in northeast Baghdad.
http://www.dvidshub.net/media/thumbs/img/0603/16332.jpg
HIRES (http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=16332)

The Multi-National Division-Baghdad Commander, Maj. Gen. James D. Thurman, passes out candy to several Iraqi children in a neighborhood of northeast Baghdad.
http://www.dvidshub.net/media/thumbs/img/0603/16333.jpg
HIRES (http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=16333)

The Multi-National Division-Baghdad Commander, Maj. Gen. James D. Thurman speaks with a local store owner in the streets of northeast Baghdad. Thurman questioned the prices of different items and asked him his opinion about the security of the neighborhood.
http://www.dvidshub.net/media/thumbs/img/0603/16334.jpg
HIRES (http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=16334)

The Multi-National Division-Baghdad Commander, Maj. Gen. James D. Thurman, speaks with local Iraqi citizens in northeast Baghdad March 1, 2006. Thurman and MND-B Command Sgt. Maj., Ronald T. Riling visited several neighborhoods of Sunni and Shia backgrounds.

[GLax]

yea we had to wear eyepro at all times on patrol, and we usually werent out shaking hands anyway. only time we were authorized to drop the eyepro was when we were doing raids cuz they fog up real bad going into a house...

[Adumb]

http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/webphoto/web_060307-N-7711S-296.jpg
HIRES (http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/photos/060307-N-7711S-296.jpg)

Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Erica Greene aims at her target on the far side of aircraft elevator three during a small arms firing exercise aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Reagan with her embarked Carrier Air Wing One Four (CVW-14) is currently on her maiden deployment conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region and participating in the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate Airman Christine Singh
http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/webphoto/web_060307-N-7711S-087.jpg
HIRES (http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/photos/060307-N-7711S-087.jpg)

A gunner's mate fires off a round from an M-14 at a target during a small arms firing exercise aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Reagan with her embarked Carrier Air Wing One Four (CVW-14) is currently on her maiden deployment conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region and participating in the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate Airman Christine Singh
http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/webphoto/web_060307-N-7711S-012.jpg
HIRES (http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/photos/060307-N-7711S-012.jpg)

Airman Melissa Watson fires off a round from an M-14 at a target during a small arms firing exercise aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Reagan with her embarked Carrier Air Wing One Four (CVW-14) is currently on her maiden deployment conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region and participating in the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate Airman Christine Singh
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41412000/jpg/_41412086_posterap.jpg


A giant poster in the northern German city of Hanover is cleaned ahead of a major computer fair.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41412000/jpg/_41412088_chileesap.jpg


Indian women prepare drying red chillies in Ahmadabad. They reportedly earn 500 rupees ($11) for each batch of 20kgs.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41412000/jpg/_41412094_crucifixap.jpg


Work continues on a giant crucifix for St Josef Cathedral, which is due to open in the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, in May.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41412000/jpg/_41412096_kenya2ap.jpg


Kenyans march in favour of press freedom, following recent government-backed raids on a newspaper and TV office.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41413000/jpg/_41413652_iraqap.jpg


An Iraqi girl goes with a relative to buy fuel in Baghdad, which is low on essential supplies because of ongoing violence.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41412000/jpg/_41412100_mirali*******.jpg


Shops are closed in the North Waziristan town of Mir Ali after fighting between Pakistani security forces and militants.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41413000/jpg/_41413654_nicaraguaap.jpg


Nicaraguans crowd onto a bus during a partial transportation strike in the capital Managua.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41412000/jpg/_41412098_kievap.jpg


Russian men buy bunches of flowers in preparation for International Women's Day celebrations on Wednesday.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41413000/jpg/_41413650_brazilap.jpg


Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva inspects the guard of honour at Horseguards Parade during a visit to Britain.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41412000/jpg/_41412136_tokya2ap.jpg


Thousands of Japanese attend a rally in Tokyo in protest at plans to allow women to ascend to the imperial throne.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41413000/jpg/_41413576_railwayafp220.jpg


A number of people have been killed after a series of explosions in the northern Indian pilgrimage city of Varanasi.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41413000/jpg/_41413566_templeap416.jpg


Thousands of worshippers are thought to have been in the Sankot Mochan temple at the time of the first explosion.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41413000/jpg/_41413580_stationpicsap220.jpg


Minutes later, there were two explosions at the city's main railway station.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41413000/jpg/_41413568_girlap416.jpg


Dozens of people were hurt in the explosions, which happened just after 1800 (1230 GMT).
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41413000/jpg/_41413572_manap416.jpg


There has been no claim of responsibility for the blasts.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41413000/jpg/_41413578_searchap416.jpg


Police later searched for more devices as security was stepped up.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41411000/jpg/_41411376_haroonflee3_220bbc.jpg


Pakistan says troops have killed 140 militants in recent fighting in North Waziristan. Thousands of people have left the regional capital, Miran Shah.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41411000/jpg/_41411384_haroonkhajori_416bbc.jpg


A curfew and road blocks are in place. A BBC reporter was among journalists barred from entering Miran Shah.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41411000/jpg/_41411388_haroonwounded_220bbc.jpg


Many civilians have been wounded in the clashes, including this local man.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41411000/jpg/_41411390_market_416yahafp.jpg


Helicopter gunships have been pounding the town to flush out militants. The main market area in Miran Shah has been severely damaged.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41411000/jpg/_41411386_haroonmonkey_220bbc.jpg


Abdullah is a motor mechanic in Miran Shah. He left the town with his pet monkey and very few belongings.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41411000/jpg/_41411380_haroonflee4_220bbc.jpg


Most of those leaving had to walk for miles and then wait for transport to nearby towns.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41411000/jpg/_41411392_soldier2_220ap.jpg


These are said to be the fiercest clashes between the army and pro-Taleban militants since troops went into the area more than three years ago.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41411000/jpg/_41411368_soldier_416ap.jpg


The clashes started when militants seized government buildings in Miran Shah. Army patrols are out in force.

[sir-chimp]

http://us.news3.yimg.com/us.i2.yimg.com/p/rids/20060307/i/r1479674232.jpg?x=236&y=345&sig=oQ2CRcydnlvnqr.ffiHh1w--
thats one FAT baby! .. fat, angry and hungry.. must have not gotten his milk treats


kid looks like he is yawning

[SuperShot5000]

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41411000/jpg/_41411386_haroonmonkey_220bbc.jpg

Pet monkey? Hahahahaha.
Send my ass to Pakistan.
I want one.
At the risk of being shot, too.

[Beckett]

tell he bit ya and threw his crap on ya .:-(

[elguapo]

http://www.fab.mil.br/imprensa/Noticias/2006/imagens/03_mar/0703/gda01.jpg

http://www.fab.mil.br/imprensa/Noticias/2006/imagens/03_mar/0703/gda02.jpg

FREETRANSLATION

Pilots of the First Group of Air Defense (1 the GDA), with headquarters in Anápolis-GO, are since yesterday in the France, where will go to prepare for the receipt of the airships Mirage 2000, recém acquired by the FAB.

[Crna Legija]

Check out these hi-res pics from the Oz DoD

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2006/Mar/20060307a/20060304adf8243116_238.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2006/Mar/20060307a/20060304adf8243116_278.jpg

Blurred out face, no velcro name tag and boots are different to what everyone else has on.

[Flavius22]

thank you for posting these pics daily its appreciated

[Chulo]

http://img348.imageshack.us/img348/2839/cookie0yd.jpg

thanks!!
now.. does that shirt say play boy and have buggs bunny on it? LOL

[Royal]

It is policy that you shall keep eye protection on at all times while out on patrol. While the guy next to him may not blow himself up, what about another IED hidden near by in order to kill ISF or US forces after an IED attack. Don’t think for a minute that we are culturally ignorant. Our interpreters often explain why we wear the protective gear to locals. Why we sometimes turn down tea or sweets. Most of the Iraqis that I deal with (ISF and Civilian) now understand. I would rather explain my perceived cultural ignorance to an Iraqi and keep my eye site.


We spend 50 odd years learning the lessons of counter insurgency and then we throw them away. I all can say is thank God we havn't got quite that stupid down south - though we're not far behind.

Makes me want to cry :(

[ZoneOne]

Check out these hi-res pics from the Oz DoD

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2006/Mar/20060307a/20060304adf8243116_238.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2006/Mar/20060307a/20060304adf8243116_278.jpg

Blurred out face, no velcro name tag and boots are different to what everyone else has on.


He's SPECIAL... duh!