Department of Defense Press Service [Archive]

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 04:02 PM

From: DoD Tranascripts <dltranscripts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Secretary Rumsfelds Interview with Tony Macrini on WNIS-AM
To: DODTRANSCRIPTS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS TRANSCRIPT from the United States Department of Defense

DoD News Briefing
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld
Tuesday, April 6, 2004

Q: I’m going to interrupt the news right now because I want to get to
this. Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, Secretary of Defense, is here in Norfolk today
and there’s going to be a presentation, there’s going to be a press conference at
10: 30 at headquarters SACT (sp) in Norfolk, Virginia, featuring the NATO Secretary
General and the U.S. Secretary of Defense. So let’s welcome to WNIS Secretary
Donald Rumsfeld.

Good morning, sir.

Rumsfeld: Good morning. How are you?

Q: Outstanding. Good to have you on. Now I was looking at your bio. And you
were a active Navy aviator for quite some time and then in the reserves. So I
guess you’ve been in Norfolk before, huh?

Rumsfeld: Well, I have. I came through Norfolk, first time, when my father was in
the Navy back in World War II and then I was stationed in Norfolk in 1956 when I
was training for the Olympic wrestling team and had a daughter born in Portsmouth
Naval Hospital.

Q: Wow. (Laughs.)

Rumsfeld: Forty eight years ago.

(Laughter)

Q: Okay, so a lot of memories when you’re back here. Well, that’s good, sir.
That’s good. Of course, here we’re all focused on the continued fighting in Iraq
and we’re looking at this. And one of things I wanted to ask you about, when we
look at it * and if you can tell us who are we fighting? Is it organized, is it
disparate forces, a number of different groups operating under different banners?
What can you tell us about that, sir?

Rumsfeld: There are several different groups. The * clearly, there are foreign
terrorists that have come across the borders from Syria and Iran into the country
and are a part of the problem. Then there are elements of the former regime that
would like to take back the government and the control of the country * the
Baathists. And that was basically the problem in Fallujah, their Fedayeen Saddam
people that go around in black masks. You’ve seen pictures of them, I’m sure.

Q: Um-hm. Yes.

Rumsfeld: And most recently, the elements within the Shia population, this fellow
named Sadr…

Q: Yeah.

Rumsfeld: … young cleric who is opposed to the coalition and he has been causing
trouble and he has what’s called a Mehdi army, which is several thousand people who
are in opposition.

Q: Sir, this Sadr, there have been published accounts indicating that he is the
tool of the Iranians. Do you buy that?

Rumsfeld: Well, his father was a very distinguished person who had a good name in
the country many, many years ago. And he’s been gone * long gone. He was killed
by Saddam Hussein. And this young person really has a very limited following and
is reputed to have connections with Iran, but it’s * I don’t think that I’m in a
position to…

Q: Okay.

Rumsfeld: … really characterize his…

Q: Fair enough.

Rumsfeld: … particular bent is, other than he’s a violent person.

Q: Now as you know, sir, and you know better than I, when looking at these
situations, you always have to plan for the worst-case scenario and war does make
strange bedfellows. The U.S. and the Soviet Union in World War II. Are there any
indications, sir, that the Sunni and Shiite are, in any way, joining forces against
us?

Rumsfeld: No.

Q: Okay.

Rumsfeld: They’re not. They’re each vying for control and power in the country.

Q: Now you know, everybody’s got an opinion. And we see Senator **** Lugar saying
we may need more troops in Iraq. What does Secretary Rumsfeld have to say about
that?

Rumsfeld: Well, if we do, we’ll put them in. The commander, John Abizaid, has to
be reviewing that question periodically. And I talked to him yesterday morning and
he indicated at that time they had no plans to request additional troops, but it’s
certainly possible.

Q: We see June 30th and the president reaffirmed yesterday that that is a day we
will plan to turn things over to Iraq. Are we still on target? Are you on board
with that?

Rumsfeld: Well, you said “turn things over.”

Q: Okay.

Rumsfeld: I think there’s a bit of confusion about that.

Q: Okay.

Rumsfeld: There never was any intention to turn over the security responsibilities
in the country because it’s clear that the Iraqi security forces are not prepared
to do that. They’ve come a long way from zero up to 200,000 of them, but they’re
still in the process of being trained and equipped and that will take some time.

The June 30th date was a scheduled date to turn over sovereignty to an interim
Iraqi government…

Q: Okay.

Rumsfeld: … and that is still on schedule.

Q: All right. Secretary Donald Rumsfeld is with us this morning. And one final
question for you. Nowhere probably in the country has more military families than
here in the Tidewater of Virginia, as you know, having lived here yourself. What
would you like to say to them today, sir?

Rumsfeld: Well, the young men and women in the service today are doing * all
volunteers, each one of them -- are doing such a superb job in Iraq, in
Afghanistan, in the horn of Africa and elsewhere around the globe, in Korea. And I
visit them, I talk to them and they are talented, they’re trained, they’re
well-lead, they’re well-equipped and they know they’re doing something that’s
important. And the pride they feel in that is an exciting thing to see and we
recognize that the families of these folks also sacrifice and serve and their long
separations from their sons and daughters and loved ones and this country is
certainly grateful to all of them for it.

Q: Well, Secretary Rumsfeld, I want to thank you very much for coming on today.
It was a pleasure and I thank you very much. And I hope you enjoy your stay in
Norfolk, sir.

Rumsfeld: Thank you very much, Tony.

Q: All right. Secretary Donald Rumsfeld right there on AM 790 WNIS.

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 04:02 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 271-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 07, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Sgt. Gerardo Moreno, 23, of Terrell, Texas, died April 6, in Ashula, Iraq,
when individuals who fired a rocket-propelled-grenade attacked his unit. Moreno
was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood,
Texas.

The incident is under investigation.

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 04:03 PM

From: DoD Tranascripts <dltranscripts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Secretary Rumsfelds Interview with WAVY-TV
To: DODTRANSCRIPTS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS TRANSCRIPT from the United States Department of Defense

DoD News Briefing
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld
Tuesday, April 6, 2004

Q: I know we have limited time, so I just want to get right in on the things that
are really meaning a lot to the folks here in Hampton Roads.

Rumsfeld: Um-hm.

Q: Twenty five miles away is Blackwater Security in Moyock, North Carolina. Folks
very concerned about what happened to four members of the security team. What I
want to know is why is the military * I know privatization has been a huge issue
and we’re privatizing a lot of services. Why is the armed services privatizing
armed security?

Rumsfeld: The armed services are not privatizing security. The…

Q: These men were providing security for…

Rumsfeld: … society…

Q: … a convoy.

Rumsfeld: … the society is privatizing security. And…

Q: However you want to say it.

Rumsfeld: Well, I mean, that’s the fact. Those tasks that are military tasks are
being performed by military people. And there are a great many people who are
involved in various types of enterprises or activities that don’t have military
people and they need security. So there’s created a market for security forces.
And it’s been a good thing that the security forces around this country and the
world do a superb job. We end up hiring contracts for the security people
sometimes, for example, when a foreign leader needs protection. And the…

Q: When you say, “we hire” you mean the military?

Rumsfeld: I mean, the United States government. It happens not to be the military,
it happens to be the Department of State, is asked for assistance, for example,
from time to time to assist some country that is just beginning to develop a
capability and before they have it, the Department of State may recommend that they
look at various security outside security firms and they do that. And so it’s a
perfectly understandable thing. It isn’t that there’s a shortage of U.S. military
for military tasks. We’ve got something like 2.4 million men and women and gone
active in guard and reserve and individual ready reserve who were available to
serve in military functions. But there are a number of instances where people want
security forces so they use a private security firm and that’s a good thing.

Q: This morning, I read that there’s a possibility maybe contingency for more
troops to be sent to Iraq. What do you think it would take to kind of activate
that, to give the go-ahead to send more forces in?

Rumsfeld: It would just take the commander on the ground that are requesting it.
And the commander currently is Rick Sanchez, who’s in charge of Iraq and John
Abizaid who has the central command. And they make those judgments, as they go
along and they’ve been told by me that if they at some point feel they need
additional forces, that they’ll request it and they’ll have them.

Q: We have a reporter, a military reporter who, just within hours got back from
Iraq. And in her travels inside Camp Anaconda in Kuwait and other places in Iraq,
she spoke to a lot of troops who say, “we need more people.” So how do you, as the
Secretary of Defense, how do you really take the pulse of the troops when you’ve
got the average non-commissioned officer saying we really need more people and the
leaders at this point saying, we’re fine?

Rumsfeld: First of all, the average non-commissioned officer is not saying what
you’re saying they’re saying. That is one or two. There are hundreds of them. And
you can get any view across the full spectrum of opinion. And it depends on where
the person is, what their circumstance is, what their personal opinion is. And it’s
the job of General Sanchez and his team to look at the totality of it, ask that
question, every day, every week, every month and make a considered judgment about
it and that’s what they do. And clearly, someone back in Washington, D.C., isn’t
in a position to make that judgment. It’s judgments and recommendations that would
have to come from the field. And it would * if you tried to follow the
recommendations of 115,000 people who are in Iraq for the United States military,
would have views all across the spectrum, you can’t do that. You have to have the
senior people look at it on the ground in Iraq, General Sanchez and his team, or
General Abizaid, and make a recommendation to us in which case, we’ll clearly be
responsive and do what they recommend.

Q: So you’re saying those folks who are saying, we don’t have enough people, we
don’t have the right equipment, they’re just unhappy?

Rumsfeld: No. No. You can have a person in one part of the country, for example,
take the north, where there’s not been anything going on, to speak of * it’s been
quite quiet, very few incidents * and they may say, well, we don’t have a problem
here, we have too many people. You can have a situation in Baghdad where there
have been a number of incidents and problems and at some moment, someone could say,
we don’t have enough people. So it’s not a matter of the total number of people,
it’s a matter of distribution of the people. And that’s * it’s is complicated.
It’s not an easy thing to do. And it’s perfectly normal that people have opinions
and express them. It’s a free country and we have a free press. But simply
because someone says we have too many or we have too few, doesn’t mean we have too
many or too few. That’s something that the senior people have to make a judgment
on * the military people * and it’s not something that’s decided in Washington.

Q: How does the military overall have to change its strategy and is there any
ongoing concern about changing, just in case there is a real Shiite uprising, which
it looks like there could be?

Rumsfeld: Well, they’ve already made a change, for example. During this
deployment and re-deployment process, there have been people coming in before
people leave. And as a result, there has been an overlap. And instead of having
the normal 115,000 troops in Iraq, today we have something like 135,000.

Q: Right.

Rumsfeld: And that’s because the ones that have been replaced, haven’t left yet.
And my guess is that General Abizaid will probably take advantage of that during
this period.

Q: When you say “this period,” do you mean between now and June 30th?

Rumsfeld: No. I was just talking about this immediate period. June 30th is a
date that doesn’t have anything to do with the security forces or our troops or
military people. It has only to do with the transferring of governance to interim
Iraqi government. And there have been a lot of confusion about that. People have
said, well, if you’re going to transfer sovereignty on June 30th, does that mean
the troops are coming home? But, of course, it does not. The president has said
quite clearly that the troops are going to stay there until there are Iraqi
capabilities, security capabilities that can take over those responsibilities and
they’ll stay as long as necessary and not any longer than is necessary. We have no
desire to have our forces there. But 25 million people have been liberated. It’s
a good thing for the people of Iraq that they’ve been liberated. The killing
fields are not being piled high with bodies. Saddam Hussein, on the average
throughout his 33 decades, killed something like 15 (thousand) to 25,000 people a
year.

Q: I think most people understand that and I think they understand that Iraq is
better off without Saddam Hussein. Whether there are weapons of mass destruction
or not, I think people understand that at least that’s something everybody can
agree with. What’s our interest now in making sure that Iraq is a stable place,
whether it means we’re in there for two more years or 10 more years?

Rumsfeld: Well, we do have an interest in that. It’s an important part of the
world and it is, we believe, important. Look at Afghanistan. Afghanistan had a
terribly difficult history * civil war, occupation by the Soviets. And today
they’re moving along towards a more democratic system. And the 25 million people
in Afghanistan today are free and women have rights to vote and to participate in
the society, which they didn’t have. And the Taliban are not running around
killing people and the al Qaeda are not using Afghanistan as a platform for killing
Americans anywhere in the world today.

Now Iraq, the same situation. You got 25 million people. They’re free today.
They’ve been liberated. And if they are able to make a transition to a free
government -- a democratic government, a government that’s whole and one country at
peace with its neighbors * it can change the economic circumstance in that part of
the world enormously for to the benefit of all those people.

Q: Lots of people now are saying * making a huge issue of out of how many American
servicemembers who died since the end of combat. Are you worried that the next
thing will be how many American servicemembers have died since the transfer of
power on June 30th, that that would be a new benchmark for people to say, “See, you
know, it’s not working,” because I mean 40 percent of Americans now believe we
should not be there. And I know you’re not one to subscribe to the latest polls.
But there are people who feel like we shouldn’t be there. What if they use June
30th as the next benchmark to say, “and Americans are still dying beyond June
30th,” I hope not, but chances are, it’ll keep happening.

Rumsfeld: Well, if you do something in life, somebody’s not going to like it. So
you’ve got a choice. You either do nothing, in which case, it’s irrelevant, or you
do something and it’s always going to be 1 percent, 5 percent, 10 percent, 20
percent who aren’t going to like it.

Q: Forty percent.

Rumsfeld: Fine. That’s fair enough. And my heart breaks every time someone is
killed. It isn’t the numbers, total numbers, it is * you cannot go visit the
people in the hospitals and see the courage that they’ve demonstrated and the loss
of limbs and the lives that aren’t lived and not feel deeply about the truly
wonderful young men and women who are doing this. And they’re doing something
that’s noble, it’s right, it’s important. And throughout the history of mankind,
there have been times when there’s never been a conflict where there are a 100
percent of the people thinking it was the right thing or a good thing or a useful
thing. And yet, our freedom has been preserved and we’ve been a force for good in
the world. And the young men and women in uniform today are a force for good in
the world.

Q: How much will we continue to rely on the reserve force and how long can this
stop order stay in effect to keep people? And this will be my last question, I
know you have to go.

Rumsfeld: The militaries use stop loss orders for * throughout history. The
reason, obviously, is if you have a unit, and people are…

Q: Right. I understand that.

Rumsfeld: … due to get out at different times…

Q: Right.

Rumsfeld: … you put a stop on it. And I would guess that would continue to be a
normal part of the personnel policies of the armed forces. People understand that
when they go in…

Q: Well, we have one that’s being used right now. Is there any…

Rumsfeld: It’s…

Q: … limit to how long that you can keep people who are supposed to be getting out
of the military rejoining their family there?

Rumsfeld: The way the stop loss is used in the most of the services today is
essentially this * if a unit is going to go over and, say, a person is due to get
out in six months or less, that person doesn’t go. If it’s six months or more,
that person goes. And when they get towards the end of their period, they have a
stop loss. And so, the number of months, if your service in Iraq, for the sake of
argument, is up to one year in Iraq, therefore, the stop loss would very likely
keep them into Iraq no more than six months and if--

Q: Um-hm. Or it could be indefinite.

Rumsfeld: What do you mean indefinite?

Q: Stop loss.

Rumsfeld: Stop loss are not indefinite.

Q: That’s what I’m asking.

Rumsfeld: No, they’re not.

Q: Okay. Because there are * again, we have somebody hours from in-country, who
was talking to a reservists who said, “I thought I as going to be here for six
months, now I’m here for 18.” It’s a moral issue. That person…

Rumsfeld: They’re not there for 18.

Q: ... as soon as they can re-enlist…

Rumsfeld: Sure. Okay.

Q: … they may not.

Rumsfeld: That’s true.

Q: And I know that.

Rumsfeld: And what you just said is inaccurate. I don’t believe there’s a person
in that circumstance in Iraq for 18 months.

Q: I have no reason to believe that our military reporter is talking to people
that ...

Rumsfeld: I think that--

Q: … that are lying to her.

Rumsfeld: It wasn’t a matter of lying. I think you just misspoke or someone
misspoke to you. You can have a person who very likely could be in for 18 months
because there’s a period of training, there’s a period of deployment, there’s a
period of leave. They’d get 45 days leave out of that 18 months. But in Iraq, the
pattern has been, except for volunteers, that they’ve been there up to a year. And
I don’t know of anybody who’s been required to be there for 18 months, who did not
volunteer to be there for 18 months, although, it’s entirely possible. But as a
pattern, that’s not been the case.

Q: All right. I do appreciate your time.

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 04:04 PM

From: DoD Tranascripts <dltranscripts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Secretary Rumsfelds interview with “The Jimmy Ray Show” on WGH-FM
To: DODTRANSCRIPTS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS TRANSCRIPT from the United States Department of Defense

DoD News Briefing
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld
Tuesday, April 6, 2004

Q: It is our honor to have on the news line right now Secretary of
Defense Donald Rumsfeld. Good morning, secretary.

Rumsfeld: Good morning. How are you?

Q: Oh, it’s wonderful to have you on the show. We are fine here and
very honored to have you on the Jimmy Ray show. This being, like, the hub of the
United States Navy, the largest Naval base in the world. We’re just so proud to
have you on the show today.

Rumsfeld: Well, thank you. I know Norfolk well. I had a daughter born in
Portsmouth about 48 years ago here.

Q: Wow.

Rumsfeld: (Laughs.)

Q: Well, you know as I think you probably read in my bio that was advanced to
you that I was born in Pensacola, was a navy brat.

Rumsfeld: Indeed.

Q: And my Dad is probably enjoying this interview now from heaven.

(Laughter)

Rumsfeld: Well, I was stationed here in Norfolk back in 1956.

Q: Wow.

Rumsfeld: Yep.

Q: That’s only a couple years before I was born, Mr. Secretary.

(Laughter)

Unknown: Don’t tell him that.

Q: But it’s an honor to have you on the show. And I got to tell you, we got a lot
of response yesterday when we asked our listeners for questions for you. This
being a * obviously, a huge military, or not just Navy, but in all the armed
services we have bases, as you know here. And so there's a lot of interest at stake
and personal investment in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. And I was wondering if
we could throw a couple of questions at you from listeners?

Rumsfeld: Sure.

Q: Okay. Randy who lives in Norfolk called in yesterday with this. He has a son
and son in-law are both are in Baghdad. And he’s wondering after we turn the
country back over to the Iraqi government * the new Iraqi government * what is the
troop situation going to look like? How long will we stay there at the same
strength? Do you have that idea now or what’s the deal with that?

Rumsfeld: Well, there’s been some confusion about that in the press, I’ve
noticed. The June 30th date, that is the planned date to turn over the sovereignty
of the government…

Q: Right.

Rumsfeld: …to the interim government of Iraq is only for the government. It is
not for the security forces because the security forces in Iraq are coming along
well. They’re now up to something like 200,000 strong, but they have not been fully
trained and not been fully equipped.

Q: Right.

Rumsfeld: And they’re not ready to take over security in the country, so the
coalition troop situation will stay very much as it is today, until such time as
the Iraqis are able to take over those responsibilities.

Q: Now so it’s kind of hard to have a definite timeline then.

Rumsfeld: Exactly. It depends on the facts on the ground.

Q: Yeah. And in that theater, I mean, they’re changing every minute
almost.

Rumsfeld: Well, they do. And of course, the president has said we’ll
stay there with our forces, as long as it’s necessary and not a day longer.

Q: Right. And you know a lot of the antagonists to the Bush’s take on this whole
Iraq situation say, you know, listen, wasn’t this just a convenient way for
President Bush to, like, you know, take out his frustrations on the threat on his
father’s life and go over to Iraq and, you know, all that kind of stuff? I mean,
why Iraq, Secretary Rumsfeld? Why did he pick Iraq, some people say? I know the
answer to that, but…

Rumsfeld: Well…

Q: …could you address that?

Rumsfeld: You bet. Here’s a country that had used chemical weapons on its
neighbors and on its own people. Here’s a country that was killing somewhere
between 15,000 and 25,000 people a year and filling up these mass graves and
killing fields. It’s a country that was giving $25,000 to suicide bombers who
would go out and kill innocent men, women and children, the terrorists.

Q: Right.

Rumsfeld: And today what you see is 25 million Iraqi people who are free, who’d
been liberated and it is an amazing accomplishment.

Q: It never…

Rumsfeld: Young…

Q: I’m sorry.

Rumsfeld: … men and women over there are doing a superb job.

Q: And we’re so proud of our military. I mean, we thank them every
hour of the day on this show. But It’s amazing to me that the pundits always find
the little negative things, but neglect the positives like the fact that there are
so many people that are free now in Iraq and how strategic that country is now
going to become for us.

Rumsfeld: It certainly is for the world. And a peaceful Iraq is going to make an
enormous change in the Middle East and we just simply have to see it through. There
are going to be good days and bad days. And, obviously, the last few have been bad
days. And we’ve seen some violence first in Fallujah and more recently on Najaf by
the fellow, Sadr. But our folks are working the problem and have confidence
they’ll be able to move ahead.

Q: Well, you know, the Blackwater Security agency is based right out of Moyock,
North Carolina, real close to our area. As a matter of fact, we have a lot of
listeners in Moyock.

Rumsfeld: Ah-ha.

Q: So when that tragedy happened last week with the four Americans getting
brutalized and murdered and hung from the bridge there in Fallujah, it was quite a
shock to America, in general, but certainly to our area, because of the base being
in Moyock. And a lot of people want to know, why didn’t we go in sooner?

Rumsfeld: Well, the military commander on the ground, General Sanchez, made a
decision that he needed to prepare some Marines to be ready to go in in an orderly
way and find the people who were engaged in that tragedy and slaughter and do it in
a proper way and it required something like 48 hours. They began putting special
forces in within 48 hours, which is relatively soon, and they intend to find those
people and clean them out.

Q: You know, I find the problem back here in the States is not the information we
get, but the misinformation that’s spread around…

Rumsfeld: (Laughs.)

Q: …about things -- and I’m sure you deal with that all the time, people asking
you questions every time you turn around ,that are misinformed about the issue.

Rumsfeld: Indeed, it’s amazing. So many people in the press, they’re not on the
radio or television where they can change their story 30 seconds later. They have
to print it, so they try to print something and frequently it’s something that has
never happened.

Q: Right.

Rumsfeld: And they think it might, so they print it as news. People believe it’s
news and it wasn’t news, it never happened.

Q: Right. And the good stuff is, I mean, there’s so much good stuff
going on in the last year with * you know, with the Afghanistan thing. Obviously,
we’ve had some deaths. We’ve had some American soldiers that have fallen in this
effort and, you know, we regret all those. And nobody regrets them more than you
and President Bush and the people in the administration that actually ordered this
thing that started. But, you know, Afghanistan is free. Women have rights in
Afghanistan. Now there’s so many good things going on because of our actions after
9/11.

Rumsfeld: Even in Iraq, if you think about it, the hospitals are open, the clinics
are open, the schools are open, the oil production is back up, the electricity is
working, potable water is available and the economic activity is coming back. The
security situation has been uneven. There’s spikes of violence, as we’ve seen this
week. And then there’ll be periods in the north and south basically where it’s
been relatively calm throughout.

Q: Well * and it’s an amazing story, as far as I m concerned. Now let’s talk
about Osama Bin Laden. We got any leads on Osama Bin Laden? (Laughs.)

Rumsfeld: Oh, we have leads every day and everyone works them hard. And, of
course, our armies and navies and air forces were organized and trained and
equipped to fight armies, navies and air forces, not to hunt individual people.

Q: Right, right.

Rumsfeld: We know how difficult that is. But they are continuing. The
intelligence community continues to try to tries to turn up leads and we’ve had
good success in capturing or killing a large number of al Qaeda and a large number
of Taliban. And the hunt goes on. And my guess is he’s not very effective today.
Maybe his lieutenants can be effective…

Q: Right.

Rumsfeld: … and certainly they can continue to kill innocent people. But it’s very
difficult for him because we’ve got so much pressure on him. And he has to spend
an awful lot of time every day trying to not get caught.

Q: Right. That’s time consuming, trying not to get caught.

Rumsfeld: You bet.

Q: And the fact that the Pakistanis are on board with us now at least, you know,
in that neck of the woods, because the topography over there has go to be just
brutal.

Rumsfeld: It is terrible. And certainly at this time of year it’s still rugged,
but the Pakistanis have been very helpful and increasingly helpful. They’ve
suffered some terrorist attacks themselves and their cooperation has been going up
steadily.

Q: So…

Rumsfeld: Well, I want to thank you very much. I’m going to have to get on with
the day.

Q: Well, Secretary * Mr. Secretary, I thank you so much for being on the Jimmy
Ray Show. It’s an honor to have you on. And God bless you and Godspeed and, you
know, thank you for all that you do for our country.

Rumsfeld: Thank you so much. It’s a pleasure to talk to you.

Q: All righty. Thank you very much. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld on the
Jimmy Ray Show.

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 04:44 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Discusses New Supply Tracking System With Vendors
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2004 -- Defense Department officials met this week with
hundreds of vendors to discuss plans for implementing technology common among
today's retailers to revolutionize the supply chain to the battlefield.

The three-day summit at the Washington Hilton began April 6.

Military logisticians hope to take the "factory to the foxhole" by using radio-
frequency identification, or RFID, tags to improve supply chains while reducing
cost. The RFID technology has become part of a new DoD initiative making it
mandatory for all items in the department's inventory to be distinguishable
from one another.

Acting Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics
Michael Wynne said RFID technology is a way for DoD to ensure military forces
get everything they need, from "food and water to supply parts."

Many retail stores today, most notably the Wal-Mart chain, use RFID tags to
track products and control inventory costs. State transportation departments
use the technology to monitor tollbooth traffic, and farmers use it to keep
track of cattle.

Wynne said he intends to have RFID tags "capture information about all critical
assets as they move throughout DoD's supply chain" to decrease supply-chain
costs and improve efficiency. Military logisticians will know exactly what is
on a shipment pallet or container without having to unwrap it, he said.

The technology enables vendors to track where their supplies are located in
DoD's supply chain process, he said.

The Defense Department issued a memo on its RFID policy earlier this year,
requiring suppliers to put passive RFID tags on the packaging of the lowest
possible piece, part, case or pallet by January.

"RFID is a data collector," said Ed Coyle, chief of the Automatic
Identification Technology Office for DoD Logistics. "RFID can feed a network
(so) that you get the right information to the right place … so we can make
decisions about what we move where and who should be using what material --
managing the inventory."

Coyle told vendors at the summit that the "timing is right" for the technology
within the Defense Department, urging them to come up with a product to meet
the government's needs in a way that relies heavily on what's already in use in
industry.

"We don't think our requirements are significantly different or different at
all from those in the commercial sector," he said, "and from that perspective,
we need to play very heavily with those in the commercial sector to make sure
that the product we come up with collectively meets DoD's requirements. We
don't want to have to be unique," he said.

Alan F. Estevez, assistant deputy undersecretary of defense for supply chain
integration, said DoD needs the technology for the same reason that has driven
its adoption in industry: so that when the customer needs something, it's
there.

"Wal-Mart is doing it so that there is no 'stock out' for customers shopping in
their stores," he said. "We have the same view. We don't want to 'stock out'
for a soldiers, sailors or airmen out in the field."

Biography:
Acting Undersecretary of Defense for
Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Michael Wynne [/bios/wynne_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
DoD Acquisition, Technology and
Logistics [http://www.acq.osd.mil/]
DoD Automatic Identification Technology
Office [http://www.dodait.com/]
DoD Logistics and Materiel Readiness Supply Chain
Integration [http://www.acq.osd.mil/log/logistics_materiel_readiness/organizations/sci
/html/index.htm]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
DoD Tests Supply Tracking
Technology [/news/Jan2004/n01092004_200401094.html]

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 04:48 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Marines Breach Wall to Reach Insurgents Using Mosque as Cover
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2004 * Marines in Fallujah, Iraq, used air support today
to break through the wall of a mosque complex that insurgents were using to
fire on them, a U.S. Central Command news release reported.

The release said Marines saw anti-coalition forces firing from the Haj Musheen
Abdul Aziz Az-Kubaysi mosque complex. To gain access to the compound housing
the mosque, the release continued, the Marines used air support to breach a
wall several hundred yards away from the actual mosque structure. One anti-
coalition force member was killed in the attack, and there were no reports of
civilian casualties, the CENTCOM release said.

The anti-coalition forces firing from the mosque violated the law of war by
conducting offensive military operations from a protected structure, the news
release said. Though the mosque lost its protected status and became a lawful
military target, the Marines still targeted only the wall surrounding the
compound to prevent damage to the mosque, the release emphasized. Marines on
the ground saw no damage to the mosque after the strike, CENTCOM reported.

Initial reports indicate a platoon-size force was firing rocket-propelled
grenades and small arms from fortified battle positions inside and on top of
the mosque, and Marines recovered a fully functional mortar from inside the
compound after the strike, the release said.

This mosque was repeatedly used as a base to target Iraqi and coalition forces
throughout the day, CENTCOM reported, characterizing the breach of the wall as
"a graduated response to the threat."

The news release said the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force "will continue to
employ precision weaponry in order to protect lives of non-combatants, private
property, medical facilities and religious structures in accordance with the
law of war."

Combined Joint Task Force 7 officials reported that a Task Force 1st Armored
Division soldier was killed by RPG fire at about 6:30 a.m. today as his convoy
was relieving the security forces guarding the Diala Police Station in Baghdad.

Military officials also reported that 12 Marines died battling anti-coalition
forces in Ramadi on April 6, and that a Ukrainian soldier was killed and five
were wounded the same day when their patrol was attacked by small-arms fire in
Kut.

Also on April 6, a 1st Infantry Division soldier was killed and another was
wounded during a counter-fire mission at Logistics Support Area Anaconda near
Balad at about 8:35 p.m. The wounded soldier was evacuated to Landstuhl
Regional Medical Center, Germany, and was reported to be in stable condition.

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
1st Armored Division [http://www.1ad.army.mil/]
1st Infantry Division [http://www.1id.army.mil/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Coalition Vows To Destroy
Sadr's 'Mahdi Army' Militia [/news/Apr2004/n04072004_200404071.html]
U.S. Forces Conducting Raids
in Fallujah [/news/Apr2004/n04062004_200404066.html]

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 04:52 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: 'Run for Freedom' at Old Dominion University Honors War Dead
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2004 — Navy and Army ROTC members, as well as students,
faculty and staff at Old Dominion University and the local community are
lapping the school's perimeter in Norfolk, Va., during a six-day "Run for
Freedom" to honor every U.S. service member killed during the war on terror.

Organized by Jason Redman, a Navy SEAL attending the university through the
Navy's Seaman to Admiral Program, the event is a fundraiser to benefit families
of fallen service members. Proceeds will go to the Special Operations Warrior
Foundation, Freedom Alliance and Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors.

The run kicked off at 5 p.m. April 3 and continues 24 hours a day through mid-
day April 8, when university president Roseann Runte will lead a formation of
ROTC students during the final lap.

When the run is completed, hundreds of runners will have taken turns carrying
the American flag relay-style on a one-mile course around the campus, each
commemorating a service member lost during Operations Enduring Freedom and
Iraqi Freedom. Redman said plans originally called for the run to extend 650
miles, but that the number increases daily as U.S. casualties mount.

Some participants, particularly those in the ROTC programs, are running
multiple miles, with some tallying up more than 20 miles during the event.

The parents and five siblings of U.S. Army Spc. Donald L. Wheeler, a 22-year-
old native of Concord, Mich., arrived at the site to carry the flag around the
course in honor of their son and brother. He was killed Oct. 13 in Iraq when
his unit came under attack and was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade.

"I understand it was pretty emotional," said Redman, student battalion
commander of the school's Navy ROTC unit.

Redman said the primary goal of the event is raise awareness of the sacrifices
military members families like Wheeler's make in the name of the freedom.

He said running around the clock, even in the dead of night, increases
awareness of the ongoing nature of the mission, and the fact that service
members fighting the war on terror can't take time out when they're tired,
hungry or simply want to go home.

"This is a very fitting way for our campus community to honor these courageous
men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country," he said.

Related Site:
Old Dominion University Army
ROTC [http://courses.lib.odu.edu/rotc/]

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 05:14 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualties
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 273-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 07, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of eight soldiers
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on April 4, in Baghdad, Iraq, when
their units were attacked with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire.
Eight soldiers were assigned to two units at Fort Hood, Texas, while one soldier
was assigned in Germany. Killed were:

Sgt. Michael W. Mitchell, 25, of Porterville, Calif., from the Army’s
2nd Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Ray
Barracks, Friedberg, Germany.

Soldiers killed from the Army’s 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment,
1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas were:

Sgt. Yihjyh L. Chen, 31, of Saipan, Marianas Protectorate.

Spc. Robert R. Arsiaga, 25, of San Antonio, Texas.

Spc. Stephen D. Hiller, 25, of Opelika, Ala.

Spc. Ahmed A. Cason, 24, of McCalla, Ala.

Spc. Israel Garza, 25, of Lubbock, Texas.

Soldiers killed from the Army’s 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery
Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas were:

Cpl. Forest J. Jostes, 22, of Albion, Ill.

Spc. Casey Sheehan, 24, of Vacaville, Calif.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 08:38 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Wednesday Apr. 7, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 267-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 07, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Wednesday, April 7, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Wednesday, April 7, 2004

CONTRACTS

NAVY

Raytheon Systems d/b/a Raytheon Systems Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being
awarded an $82,422,619 firm-fixed-price contract for Lot 4 production of 314 AIM-9X
tactical missiles for the Navy (64), Air Force (186) and the government of Korea
(64); 125 captive air training missiles for the Navy (38), Air Force (70) and the
governments of Korea (14) and Finland (3); 4 dummy air training missiles for the
government of Korea; and 122 containers for the Navy (29), Air Force (72) and the
governments of Korea (20) and Finland (1). In addition the contract procures a
mentor-protégé program to enhance the industrial base. This contract combines
purchases of the Air Force ($45,524,170; 55 percent), Navy ($17,795,345; 22
percent), DOD ($400,707; .5 percent) and the governments of Korea ($18,228,976; 22
percent), and Finland ($464,364; .5 percent) under the Foreign Military Sales
Program. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. (84 percent); Rocket Center,
W.Va. (13 percent) and Andover, Mass. (3 percent), and is expected to be completed
in April 2006. This contract was not competitively procured. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command,
Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity (N00019-04-C-0006).

Norfolk Shipbuilding and Drydock Corp., Norfolk, Va., is being awarded
a $21,975,514 fixed-price contract for the drydocking phased maintenance
availability of the USS Bataan (LHD-5). Work involves miscellaneous repairs,
including drydocking. Work will be performed in Norfolk, Va., and is expected to
be completed by October 2004. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current
fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured and advertised via the
Internet, with three proposals solicited and three offers received. The Supervisor
of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, USN, Portsmouth, Va., is the contracting
activity (N62678-04-C-4019).

Alliant Techsystems ABL, Rocket Center, W.V., is being awarded an
estimated $13,000,000 cost, no-fee facilities contract for projects in support of
the Navy’s continuing restoration program at Allegany Ballistics Laboratory. Work
will be performed in Rocket Center, W.V., and is expected to be completed by
October 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal
year. The contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command,
Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-04-E-4410).

McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Co.,
St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $6,789,703 cost-plus-fixed-fee/firm-fixed price
delivery order against a previously issued basic ordering agreement
(N00019-02-G-3041) to procure the necessary materials and engineering services to
upgrade the mission display processor for the T-45. Work will be performed in
Albuquerque, N.M. (64 percent); St. Louis, Mo. (26 percent); and Bloomington, Minn.
(10 percent), and is expected to be completed in January 2007. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command,
Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity.

Alan Shintani, Inc.*, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded $6,457,000 for
a firm-fixed-price Task Order under an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity
multiple award construction contract for anti-terrorism force protection measures
at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility. Work will be
performed in Pearl Harbor, Oahu, Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by May
2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The
basic contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation website
with 17 offers received and award made on July 30, 2002._ _ The total contract
amount is not to exceed $60,000,000, which includes the base period and four option
years. The multiple contractors (four in number) may compete for task orders under
the terms and conditions of the existing contract. Three offers were received for
this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific Division, Pearl
Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (N62742-01-D-1342).

ARMY

Dimensions International Inc., Alexandria, Va., was awarded on April 6,
2004, a delivery order amount of $5,715,511 as part of a $5,715,511 time and
materials contract for Up Armor High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle
De-Processing. Work will be performed in Fairfield, Ohio (76 percent) and Kuwait
City, Kuwait (24 percent), and is expected to be completed by March 31, 2005.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a
sole source contract initiated on March 12, 2004. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive
and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity
(DAAE07-98-D-T061).

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 08:38 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualties
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 265-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 07, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who
were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom:

Pfc. Christopher Ramos, 26, of Albuquerque, N.M.

Cpl. Jesse L. Thiry, 23, of Casco, Wis.

Both Marines died April 5, due to injuries received from hostile fire
in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. They were assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st
Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

RIP, guys. :(

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 08:39 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 266-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 07, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Deryk L. Hallal, 24, of Indianapolis, Ind., died April 6, due to
hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th
Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 08:40 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Rumsfeld: Coalition Will Win 'Test of Will' in Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2004 * The coalition is facing a "test of will" in Iraq,
and it will meet that test, Defense Department leaders said at a press briefing
today.

"We will certainly not allow fugitives from Iraqi justice to stop progress
toward a better life for 25 million people," Defense Secretary Donald H.
Rumsfeld said. "We will not allow Sadr to get away with murder. We will not
allow Zarqawi and others to block the path to a free Iraq."

He was referring to radical Shiite Muslim cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, whose militia
is fighting coalition forces, and fugitive Jordanian terrorist Abu Musab al-
Zarqawi, believed to be behind terrorist activities in Iraq.

Rumsfeld also said troop levels in Iraq are higher than normal because of the
deployment and redeployment of U.S. forces in Iraq. Officials stressed that no
decisions have been made yet, but some units may extend past their one-year
tour if conditions dictate that.

"We have military plans to systematically address the situations we are
currently facing," Rumsfeld said. "Those plans are now being implemented.
Because we're in the midst of a major troop rotation, we have a planned
increase in the number of U.S. troops in the (U.S. Central Command) area of
responsibility, and indeed in Iraq.

"We're taking advantage of that increase," he said, "and we will likely be
managing the pace of the redeployments to allow those seasoned troops with
experience and relationships with the local populations to see the current
situation through."

Extending troops past their year is just one option Army Gen. John Abizaid,
CENTCOM commander, is looking at, officials said. Other options include
earlier-than-planned deployment of troops scheduled to go to Iraq, and shifting
coalition troops within the country.

"We've said it every week, every month from the very beginning that the
commanders on the ground make a continuing assessment as to the number of
troops they believe they need and the kinds of troops they need," Rumsfeld
said. "They make recommendations, and I sign deployment orders. You can be
certain that if they want more troops, we will sign deployment orders so that
they'll have the troops they need."

Rumsfeld said the vast majority of the Iraqi people want freedom for their
country. "Nonetheless, … as the date for Iraq's transition to self-government
approaches, those opposed to a free Iraq will grow increasingly desperate. And
indeed they are," he said.

Rumsfeld said the combat in Iraq is "a power play between those who favor
terrorism and a return to oppression, and those determined to have freedom and
self-government.

He said the Iraqi people would reject the terrorists and former Baathists. "The
overwhelming majority of the Iraqi people oppose them, and given a free choice,
the Iraqi people will choose the rule of law, not rule by murderers," Rumsfeld
said. "This much is certain: those who oppose the Iraqis people transition to
freedom and self-rule will not be permitted to derail it."

Coalition forces are taking the battle to the enemy. Two types of enemy are
attacking coalition forces in Iraq now, said Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers,
chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The 1st Marine Expeditionary Force is
taking on one type of enemy in Fallujah and Ramadi, consisting of Baathist
remnants, Iraqi extremists, foreign terrorists and members of the Zarqawi
network, he said.

The second enemy consists of "thugs and gangs that would associate themselves
with Sadr," the chairman said. This group is small * between 1,000 and 6,000
through all of Iraq * but it is active in Baghdad, Amarah, Nasiriyah, Kut,
Basra, Karbala and especially in Najaf, he added.

Myers said the two enemies have only one thing in common: "a desire to keep
Iraq from progressing towards peace and freedom and self-rule."

Myers also spoke about the performance of Iraqi security forces in the recent
fighting. He said they are a part of Operation Vigilant Resolve in Fallujah.
"They're part of the outer cordon, and perhaps some operations inside," Myers
said. "There are other Iraqi forces that are actually conducting operations in
Fallujah, with our forces. I'm told that's going very well.

"There are other instances where Iraqi forces have not been as aggressive," he
acknowledged. He said a priority has to be to properly equip and train Iraqi
forces.

Rumsfeld said the Iraqi forces would be more effective once the U.S. military
is freed from some of the constraints on U.S. ability to train and equip the
Iraqi security forces. "There's just too many rules and regulations and laws
and procedures that are based on peacetime constraints that impede and slow the
progress towards getting Iraqi forces trained and equipped and deployed in ways
that are effective," he said.

Biographie:
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld [/bios/rumsfeld_bio.html]
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Joint Chiefs of Staff [ http://www.dtic.mil/jcs/]
U.S. Central Command [ http://www.centcom.mil/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [ http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Coalition Vows To Destroy
Sadr's 'Mahdi Army' Militia [/news/Apr2004/n04072004_200404071.html]
Warrant Issued for Anti-
Coalition Cleric's Arrest [/news/Apr2004/n04052004_200404053.html]
Coalition Releases Letter
Meant for al Qaeda [/news/Feb2004/n02112004_200402113.html]

Seoulstriker

04-07-2004, 11:37 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualties
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 269-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 07, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of five Marines who
were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Christopher R. Cobb, 19, of Bradenton, Fla.

Pfc. Ryan M. Jerabek, 18, of Oneida, Wis.

Pfc. Moises A. Langhorst, 19, of Moose Lake, Minn.

Lance Cpl. Travis J. Layfield, 19, of Fremont, Calif.

Pfc. Langhorst died April 5; all others died April 6. All died due to
hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. They were assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th
Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 09:01 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualties
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 272-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 07, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who
were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Lance Cpl. Kyle D. Crowley, 18, of San Ramon, Calif.

Staff Sgt. Allan K. Walker, 28, of Lancaster, Calif.

Both died April 6, due to hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
They were assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine
Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 10:01 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Coalition Working to Pacify Fallujah, Destroy Sadr Militia
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2004 * Coalition forces are working to pacify Fallujah and
other parts the Sunni Triangle area, and they are destroying the militia led by
Muqtada al-Sadr in the central and southern areas of Iraq, the commander of
coalition forces in Iraq said today.

Army Lt. Gen. Ricardo S. Sanchez, commander of Combined Joint Task Force 7,
said during a briefing from Baghdad that the coalition will not allow thugs,
extremists and terrorists to stop the transition to Iraqi sovereignty or to try
to control the country with a violent power play.

"Coalition and Iraqi security forces are conducting deliberate, precise and
robust combat operations to separate, isolate and destroy the enemy wherever we
find him on the battlefield," Sanchez said. "We cannot tolerate acts of
violence directed against the Iraqi people and its fundamental government and
security structures."

The 1st Marine Expeditionary Force and the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps "have made
tremendous progress in restoring legitimate authority to Fallujah," Sanchez
said. He characterized opposition as "moderate," made up mostly of insurgent
attacks. He said the Marines continue their pursuit of key targets in the heart
of the city.

The Marines launched Operation Vigilant Resolve following the killing of five
soldiers north of Fallujah, March 31, and the murder and mutilation of four
American private security specialists in Fallujah the same day. Sanchez said
once the area is pacified, the Marines will move to stability operations in the
city of about 300,000. "The security situation will improve over the days and
weeks ahead," he said. "Once the security situation in Fallujah is stabilized,
the citizens in Fallujah will find no better friends than the Marines of the 1st
Marine Expeditionary Force."

He said the Marines are experts at civil-military operations and will bring
substantial resources to improve the quality of life in Fallujah. Sanchez said
coalition forces are allowing food and humanitarian supplies into the city.

In the central and southern areas of Iraq, coalition forces have launched
another operation dubbed Resolute Sword. This operation is aimed directly at
the militia forces of Muqtada al-Sadr. Pentagon officials said Sadr is a minor
Shiia cleric who is launching a power play to increase his stature in the
country as transfer of sovereignty approaches. The cleric is anti-American and
has urged followers to kill coalition forces.

An Iraqi judge issued a warrant for Sadr's arrest in conjunction with the
brutal murder of a rival Shiia cleric last year. On April 3, demonstrations
following the coalition's closing Sadr's newspaper turned violent in Najaf.
Officials had closed down the newspaper for encouraging and trying to incite
violence against the coalition. The unrest spread to other cities including
Baghdad, Nasiriyah, Kut, Amarah, Basra and Karbala.

"In Baghdad, our forces remain on the offensive, conducting intelligence-based
raids to destroy Sadr's militia as they attempt to intimidate the population,"
Sanchez said. "Despite attempts to incite violence, attack government
facilities and disrupt the lives of Iraqis, coalition units are in firm control
of Baghdad."

Sadr's militias do control portions of Kut and Najaf. Complicating the
situation in Najaf is the presence of thousands of Shiia Muslims in the area
for the annual Shiite pilgrimage holiday called Arbaeen, which starts April 9.
Sanchez said the coalition has been working with religious and security leaders
in the region to beef up security. Even with this effort, the area will be
dangerous. He said Abu Musab al- Zarqawi, an al Qaeda ally operating in Iraq,
has vowed to kill Shiia. Sanchez cautioned pilgrims to be vigilant.

The general said that offensive operations will continue to fight Sadr's
militia, its leaders and its facilitators. "Sadr's gang is attempting without
success to sabotage progress toward a free and independent Iraq," he said. "It
is attempting to intimidate the majority of moderate Iraqis who seek democracy
and a society that is ruled by law and not by the barrel of a gun."

Sanchez said violence will continue in the area until Sadr turns himself in or
his militia is destroyed. "Coalition military forces will conduct powerful,
deliberate and very robust military operations until the job is done," he said.
"We are committed, and we will not be deterred."

Helping the command is the fact that it is in the midst of a major troop
rotation, and this provides an increased number of U.S. troops in the country.
"We are taking advantage of these forces, and we will manage the redeployment
to give us the combat power that is necessary to accomplish the mission at
hand," he said.

The current coalition strength troop strength in Iraq is about 160,000 --
134,000 Americans. More than 200,000 Iraqis serve in the country's security
forces.

"There is a new dawn approaching for those Iraqis that have chosen to support
freedom and democracy," Sanchez said. "That is what we stand for, that is what
Iraqis expect and that is what we are committed to in this country."

Biography:
Lt. Gen. Ricardo
S. Sanchez [http://www.cjtf7.com/command-info/senior-leaders.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Rumsfeld: Coalition Will Win
'Test of Will' in Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04072004_200404076.html]
Marines Breach Wall to Reach
Insurgents Using Mosque as Cover [/news/Apr2004/n04072004_200404074.html]
Sadr Group Losing Influence
Among Iraq's Shiia, DoD Says [/news/Apr2004/n04072004_200404072.html]
Coalition Vows To Destroy
Sadr's 'Mahdi Army' Militia [/news/Apr2004/n04072004_200404071.html]
U.S. Forces Conducting Raids
in Fallujah [/news/Apr2004/n04062004_200404066.html]
Warrant Issued for Anti-
Coalition Cleric's Arrest [/news/Apr2004/n04052004_200404053.html]
Coalition Releases Letter
Meant for al Qaeda [/news/Feb2004/n02112004_200402113.html]

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 10:04 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualties
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 274-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 08, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who
were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Lance Cpl. Marcus M. Cherry, 18, of Imperial, Calif.

Pfc. Benjamin R. Carman, 20, of Jefferson, Iowa.

Both died April 6, due to hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. They
were assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine
Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine Corps
Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 12:02 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Rice: No Warning of Al Qaeda Using Planes As Bombs
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2004 * Although the U.S. government was aware of the al
Qaeda threat, senior policy makers had received no warning that the terrorists
would use planes as bombs to attack the homeland, National Security Adviser
Condoleezza Rice told the 9-11 panel here today.

Rice acknowledged to Thomas H. Kean, chairman of the National Commission on
Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, that she and other senior government
officials were "quite cognizant" of al Qaeda prior to the Sept. 11, 2001,
attacks on the United States and realized that "something had to be done."

Kean then asked Rice whether she had ever received any memo or other document
from the FBI, CIA or any other intelligence agency that warned of terrorists
"using planes as bombs."

Intelligence information pointing to potential terrorist "use of airplanes as
weapons actually was never briefed to us," Rice responded. She acknowledged,
however, that she couldn't say whether such a report may have existed, but that
one simply wasn't presented to the most senior officials.

Regarding the process of discerning potential terrorist threats, Rice noted,
"part of the problem is … you have thousands of pieces of information * car
bombs and this method and that method. And you have to depend, to a certain
degree, on the intelligence agencies to sort (and) to tell you what is actually
relevant, what is actually based on sound sources, what is speculative."

Rice said she could only assume that U.S. intelligence agencies didn't have
enough hard evidence to support a warning that airliners would be used to
attack the homeland.

"I do not remember any reports to us (providing) a kind of strategic warning
that planes might be used as a weapon," she told the commission.

Biography:
National Security Adviser
Condoleezza Rice [http://www.whitehouse.gov/nsc/ricebio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
National Commission on Terrorist
Attacks Upon the United States [http://www.9-11commission.gov/]
Dr.
Rice's Prepared Opening Remarks to Commission on Terrorist Attacks, April 8,
2004 [http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/04/20040408.html]

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 01:59 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 280-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 08, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Tyanna S. Felder, 22, of Bridgeport, Conn., died April 7, in
Balad, Iraq, of injuries sustained on April 4 in Mosul when her convoy vehicle was
hit with an improvised explosive device. Felder was assigned to the Army’s 296th
Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.

The incident is under investigation.

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 02:00 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Bremer Urges Arbaeen Pilgrims in Iraq to Be Vigilant
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2004 * Security conditions in southern Iraq prompted the
coalition's civilian administrator to issue a statement today promising the
best possible effort to protect Arbaeen pilgrims while urging them to be
vigilant and careful.

Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims are expected to converge on the southern city
of Najaf for Arbaeen that starts April 9, a religious observance that
commemorates the martyrdom of a Shiia religious leader.

"In light of the current unsettled security conditions in the south, and
especially in the holy city of Najaf, we in the coalition urge all parties to
exercise great vigilance and caution during the upcoming commemoration of
Arbaeen," began the statement issued by Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III.

Bremer noted that deposed dictator Saddam Hussein had repressed the observance.
"Now, individuals who seek to take power through mob violence and by blocking
Iraq's democratic path are also making it unsafe for Iraqis to worship God,"
Bremer's statement said.

The coalition administrator's statement said that while the fight to restore
law and order continues, he calls on all Iraqis "to cooperate with the
legitimate security authorities to thwart those who seek to disrupt this holy
commemoration."

He noted that many Iraqis and pilgrims from other nations are wondering if they
can safely observe Arbaeen, and he acknowledged that some governments have
urged their citizens not to go to Najaf.

"Each individual must judge the issue for himself or herself with the counsel
of their religious authorities," Bremer's statement said. "For our part, we and
the Iraqi authorities will do all we can with limited capabilities to
facilitate safety and security, but the pilgrims should make their individual
judgments knowing that the dangers this year are very real."

Biography:
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>
Related Site:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 02:17 PM

From: DoD Transcripts <dltranscripts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Secretary Rumsfeld Remarks from Capitol Hill
To: DODTRANSCRIPTS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS TRANSCRIPT from the United States Department of Defense

DoD News Briefing
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld
Thursday, April 8, 2004

Sen Warner: We just completed a briefing of the Senate. Almost three quarters of
the Senate, over 70 members came for an hour and half for a very thorough, in-depth
exchange first with the Joint Staff Intelligence, followed by the Secretary and the
chairman.

Mr. Secretary.

Rumsfeld: Questions.

Q: (inaudible) Japan has no plans to withdraw the troops from Iraq. May I have
comment on that?

Rumsfeld: I have not seen * you say that the Japan * the government of Japan has
announced they have no plans to withdraw their troops from Iraq -- is that what you
said?

Q: (Inaudible)

Rumsfeld: Well, I have not seen the report but clearly that is a good * a sound
position and it’s appreciated.

Q: Sir, will there be any significant relocation of the troops (inaudible)?

Rumsfeld: We don’t talk about movement of troops in a country.

(Cross talk)

Rumsfeld: When we have announcements to make, with respect to deployments or
redeployments, we tend to make them after the fact. What I have said and what
General Myers said yesterday is that we are at a circumstance in the country where
we were moving 115,000 in and 115,000 out. And we made a conscious decision at the
request of General Abizaid to take advantage of the fact that we had a overlap and
higher number than unusual * we’re up to 135,000 right now * and that we were going
to * General Abizaid was going to indicate to us which of those forces he would
like to remain in-country for some period to deal with the current situation.

Q: Mr. Secretary, (inaudible) Iraqi security forces in (inaudible), why don’t
they (inaudible)?

Rumsfeld: Well, they’ve lost over 250 people killed in action, so the suggestion
that they’re not out providing security for the country of Iraq would be a
misunderstanding of the situation.

Q: Mr. Secretary, have you seen images today (inaudible)?

Rumsfeld: Well, of course terrorists have been doing that type of thing for
hundreds of years.

Unknown: Thank you very much, Mr. Secretary.

Rumsfeld: Thank you.

Q: Appreciate it.

Rumsfeld: Good to see you. Thank you, sir.

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 02:58 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Afghanistan Was First Priority After 9/11, Rice Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2004 * Senior U.S. officials decided to focus on the al
Qaeda-Taliban connection in Afghanistan rather than on Iraq shortly after the
Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, National Security
Adviser Condoleezza Rice told the 9/11 panel here today.

After high-level discussions held at Camp David, Md., a few days after the
attacks Rice told Thomas H. Kean, chairman of the National Commission on
Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, that President Bush and his senior
advisers decided to target al Qaeda's sanctuary in Afghanistan.

Rice also told Kean "there was a discussion of Iraq," at the Camp David
meeting, which she said was precipitated by Defense Secretary Donald H.
Rumsfeld and Deputy Defense Secretary Paul D. Wolfowitz.

The two senior DoD leaders, Rice noted, pointed out that since the United
States was involved in a global war on terrorism, then perhaps "should we look
at doing something against Iraq," as well as Afghanistan.

However, toward the end of the meeting, Rice said, "not a single one" of the
president's senior advisers recommended an attack on Iraq at that time, noting
the decision had been made for a military move against Afghanistan.

After returning to the White House, Rice said, the president outlined what he
wanted to do to protect the homeland and plan for the Afghan campaign.

Rice said the president also told her that he wanted military contingency plans
drawn up against Iraq, "should Iraq act against our interests."

There was presidential concern, Rice observed, that Iraq "might try to take
advantage of us" in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. The regime of then-Iraqi
dictator Saddam Hussein, she pointed out, routinely was firing at U.S. and
coalition aircraft patrolling the country's northern and southern no-fly zones.
She added that there was some suspicion that Saddam may have had something to
do with the 9/11 attacks. Therefore, in the days immediately following 9-11,
Rice noted "it's not surprising that the president would say 'What about Iraq?'
given our hostile relationship with Iraq" at that time. However, Rice
emphasized, the focus of the U.S. government immediately after 9/11 was to go
after al Qaeda and their Taliban enablers in Afghanistan.

Rice later told panel vice chairman Lee H. Hamilton that before the attacks,
senior Bush policy makers believed that removing al Qaeda leader Osama bin
Laden *- while a good idea -- wasn't a "silver bullet" that would destroy the
terrorist network.

"What the president wanted was a plan to eliminate al Qaeda so he could stop
'swatting at flies,'" Rice explained to Hamilton, noting such a comprehensive
plan "takes some time" to develop and implement. The new plan, she noted, cited
the need to obtain Pakistani cooperation in fighting al Qaeda, and was approved
shortly before the 9/11 attacks.

Hamilton then asked Rice for her opinion regarding the viewpoint that
political, economic and cultural differences between the Islamic world and
Western societies caused discord that led to the 9/11 attacks.

"This is really the generational challenge," Rice replied to the panel vice
chairman. "The kinds of issues that you are addressing have to be addressed,
but we're not going to see success on our watch."

Rice observed that for decades the United States has employed "a policy that
looks the other way" when doing business with Middle Eastern governments that
repress their citizens' individual liberties.

"I think that that has tended to alienate us from the populations of the Middle
East," she said, though she noted ongoing government reform in places such as
Bahrain and Jordan.

"The building of democracy is tough," Rice acknowledged, pointing to the United
States' own growing pains and stumbles over more than 200 years.

Rice predicted peace and understanding would eventually take seed and grow
between the Middle East and the West. "This is why Iraq is so important," she
said.

Iraq's people "are struggling to find a way to create a multi-ethnic democracy
that works," Rice said. "It is going to be hard."

However, "if we stay with them, and when they succeed, I think they will have
made a big change in the middle of the Arab world," Rice said, "and we will be
on our way to addressing the source" of Middle East discord and terrorism."

Biography:
National Security Adviser
Condaleezza Rice [http://www.whitehouse.gov/nsc/ricebio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
National Commission on Terrorist
Attacks Upon the United States [http://www.9-11commission.gov/]
Dr.
Rice's Prepared Opening Remarks to Commission on Terrorist Attacks, April 8,
2004 [http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/04/20040408.html]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Rice: No Warning of Al Qaeda
Using Planes As Bombs [/news/Apr2004/n04082004_200404082.html]

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 03:40 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 277-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 08, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Lance Cpl. Shane L. Goldman, 20, of Orange, Texas, died April 5 due to
injuries received from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to
1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp
Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 04:41 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Deployed Troops Step Up Anti-Malarial Protections
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2004 -- It's peak mosquito season in Iraq, and U.S troops
deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom are taking steps to protect
themselves against malaria.

The high-risk season for malaria in Iraq runs from April 1 through Nov. 1,
according to Army Col. Fredric Plotkin, preventive medicine and force health
protection officer for U.S. Central Command headquarters at MacDill Air Force
Base, Fla. The highest-risk areas are in the northern, eastern and southeastern
provinces, Plotkin said. Baghdad and much of western Iraq are malaria-free.

The high-risk period for malaria in Afghanistan runs from March through
November, and malaria is a high risk year-round in the Horn of Africa.

Service members in high-risk areas are required to take anti-malarial
medication. The type of drug prescribed varies depending on the region, based
on the malarial strain present, Plotkin said.

Chloroquine, the drug most commonly prescribed to service members in Iraq,
requires only a weekly 500-milligram tablet and has fewer side effects than
other anti-malarial drugs, Plotkin said.

Other anti-malarial drugs frequently used by deployed U.S. service members are
mefloquine and doxycycline. These drugs generally are used in areas where
malaria is resistant to chloroquine or for service members who can't take
chloroquine.

Although U.S. Central Command issues general guidelines about how anti-malarial
drugs are prescribed, Plotkin said unit surgeons on the ground are authorized
to tailor these guidelines based on local conditions.

Use of anti-malarial drugs continues for four extra weeks after the exposure to
malaria, Plotkin said, to ensure that malaria parasites are cleared from the
blood. In addition, service members take primaquine for two weeks to kill any
malaria parasites in the liver, he said, adding that a blood test is required
before primaquine is prescribed.

Anti-malarial drugs serve as a second line of defense in the event that other
protective measures fail, Plotkin said.

These measures include using an insect repellent containing DEET
(diethylmethyltoluamide) on exposed skin, blousing pants into boots, wearing
sleeves down, treating uniforms with permethrin and sleeping under a
permethrin-treated bed net, he said.

These measures also protect service members against other insect-borne
diseases, such as leishmaniasis, for which anti-malarial drugs are not
effective, Plotkin said.

According to an Army message issued to the field in November, no cases of
malaria have been reported among coalition troops in Iraq, and encountering a
strain of malaria that is resistant to chloroquine is considered to be unlikely
in Iraq.

Malaria is a major health problem in tropical climates, with an estimated 500
million new cases causing at least 1 million deaths every year. Malaria usually
is fatal in only the very old, very young and those with weakened immune
systems, officials said.

Symptoms of malaria include a slow-rising fever that lasts several days,
followed by shaking chills and rapidly increased temperature. Victims often
feel malaise and suffer headache, nausea and profuse sweating. Plotkin said the
cycle of chills, fever and sweating typically repeats itself every one to three
days.

Plotkin said malarial symptoms may appear long after a service member has
redeployed from the affected region. For this reason, he said, service members
are counseled to advise their doctors that they served in an area where malaria
was present if they develop a flu-like illness within a year or so after
redeploying.

Related Site:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 04:48 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Guard, Reserve Leaders Address Appropriations Subcommittee
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2004 -- National Guard and Reserve leaders met before a
Senate subcommittee reviewing the fiscal 2005 military budget here April 7.

The leaders discussed transformation goals and spending requirements, but also
touched on issues such as deployments, stress on the force and the war on
terrorism before the Senate Appropriations Committee's defense subcommittee.

Air Force Lt. Gen. James E. Sherrard III, chief of Air Force Reserve, Air Force
Reserve Command, who addressed modernization efforts of several aircraft, said
the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and the global war on terrorism has meant that
one in three Air Force reservists has been mobilized during that time. He said
that such reliance has meant a change in how the Air Force Reserve employs its
forces.

"Like our active duty partners, the men and women of the Air Force Reserve are
very busy," the general said.

During fiscal 2003, Air Force Reserve Command made major Air and Space
Expeditionary Force contributions and still met practically all of its aviation
and support commitments, he said, deploying more than 23,350 personnel to meet
those commitments. "The challenge for fiscal year 2004," he told the
subcommittee, will be to meet the continued AEF demands of the global war on
terrorism primarily with volunteers if the number of mobilized personnel
decreases."

Lt. Gen. Dennis M. McCarthy, commander of Marine Forces Reserve, testified that
Marines too are carrying a heavy load.

The general said Marine units have participated in all aspects of Operation
Iraqi Freedom, providing air, ground, and combat service support as well as a
large number of individuals augmenting Marine and joint staffs.

He said the Marine units completed 27,389 Reserve activations in response to
both internal and joint operational requirements. Of the 27,389 Marines
mobilized since 9/11, 1,426 have been mobilized more than once, he aid.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. James R. Helmly, Army Reserve chief, said increased
deployments is a "critical issue" that should be recognized. He said the war in
Iraq is the first extended-duration war the nation has fought with an all-
volunteer force.

"There has been considerable concern raised about what is viewed as excessive
reliance on the nation's reserve components, both for small-scale operations
such as the Balkans rotations and for long-term contingency operations such as
Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom."

Although only 33 percent of Army Reserve troop strength has been called to
active duty, "raw numbers alone do not tell the whole story," he said.

"Some units -- notably military police and truck transportation units -- are in
fact overextended, and it is true that some types of units have been used more
in the war on terrorism than others," he explained. "Military police, civil
affairs, military intelligence, transportation and biological detection and
surveillance capabilities are the highest in utilization."

He told the subcommittee that Reserve leaders are committed to eliminating
"pockets of specialty overstress" by increasing the numbers of some units in
the active component, the Army Reserve and Army National Guard.

He said the Defense Department is deeply involved in determining how to
rebalance the active-reserve component force mix to mitigate the effects of
overuse of particular specialties.

Army Lt. Gen. Roger C. Schultz, director for the Army National Guard, told the
committee the Guard remains committed to its mission in the war on terror, but
needs modernization, training and equipment.

"Our soldiers will not reach their fullest potential of readiness with outdated
equipment, limited health care, and unpredictable deployment cycles," he said.
"In all areas, however, we remain dedicated to using our resources efficiently
and prudently."

Air Force Lt. Gen. Daniel James III, director of the Air National Guard,
highlighted his service's accomplishment in the war on terror, noting that more
than 36,000 Air Guard personnel were mobilized since 9/11 and that a third of
the Air Force aircraft in Operation Iraqi Freedom have been from the Air Guard.

"We flew 100 percent of the Operation Enduring Freedom A-10 missions and 66
percent of the Iraqi Freedom A-10 tasking," he said. "The A-10s flew more
combat missions in the Iraqi war than any other weapon system."

James said future needs will rely heavily on technological advances in space,
command and control, intelligence and reconnaissance systems, information
warfare and unmanned aerial vehicles. The Air Guard also is looking at the
ability to conduct high volume and highly accurate attacks with significantly
fewer platforms, he said.

For the Air Guard to remain part of the Total Force, "it has to expand its
capabilities as joint warfighters and make the changes to integrate seamlessly
into the joint warfighting force," he said.

"Now is the time for us to lead the way by considering, selecting and
implementing new concepts and missions that leverage our unique strengths to
improve Total Force capabilities in support of expeditionary roles and defense
of the homeland," he emphasized. "This can only be accomplished by involving
all Air National Guard stakeholders, working toward a common goal (of) enhanced
future relevance for the entire Air National Guard."

James said the Air National Guard will continue to defend the nation in the war
on terrorism while transforming for the future.

"We will do this across the full spectrum of operations in both the
expeditionary and Homeland Defense missions," he said. "The men and women of
the Air Guard are currently serving proudly in the far corners of the globe —
and here at home — and will do so with distinction with the necessary tools to
protect our freedoms."

Biographies:
Lt. Gen. James E. Sherrard
III [http://www.af.mil/bios/bio.asp?bioID=7128]
Lt. Gen. Dennis M. McCarthy [http://www.usmc.mil/genbios2.nsf/biographies/422BE8EB3A7FC6A7852568080062
C0FD?opendocument]
Lt. Gen. James R.
Helmly [http://www4.army.mil/USAR/leadership/helmly.php]
Lt. Gen.
Roger C. Schultz [http://www.arng.army.mil/guard_docs/biography/Schultz.pdf]
Lt. Gen. Daniel James
III [http://www.af.mil/bios/bio.asp?bioID=5929]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Lt.
Gen. James E. Sherrard III's Prepared Testimony, April 7, 2004 [http://appropriations.senate.gov/hearmarkups/record.cfm?id=220202]
Lt.
Gen. Dennis M. McCarthy's Prepared Testimony, April 7, 2004 [http://appropriations.senate.gov/hearmarkups/record.cfm?id=220206]
Lt.
Gen. James R. Helmly's Prepared Testimony, April 7, 2004 [http://appropriations.senate.gov/hearmarkups/record.cfm?id=220209]
Lt.
Gen. Roger C. Schultz's Prepared Testimony, April 7, 2004 [http://appropriations.senate.gov/hearmarkups/record.cfm?id=220260]
Lt.
Gen. Daniel James III's Prepared Testimony, April 7, 2004 [http://appropriations.senate.gov/hearmarkups/record.cfm?id=220263]
Air Force Reserve Command [http://www.afrc.af.mil/]
Marine Forces Reserve [http://www.mfr.usmc.mil/]
Army Reserve [http://www4.army.mil/USAR/home/index.php]
Army National Guard [http://www.arng.army.mil/]
Air National Guard [http://www.af.mil/sites/site_ang.asp]
Senate Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Defense [http://appropriations.senate.gov/subcommittees/defense/topics.cfm?code=de
f]

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 04:57 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Marines Prepared, Trained for Iraq Mission, Says Commander
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2004 -- Although the rules of engagement specifically
identify mosques as protected structures, Iraqi insurgents forfeited that
protection when they used a mosque in central Fallujah, Iraq, April 7 to launch
attacks on U.S. forces, the commanding general of the 1st Marine Expeditionary
Brigade told reporters at Camp Pendleton, Calif., today.

Marine Maj. Gen. Keith Stalder said that when a platoon-size group of enemy
forces occupied the mosque and the grounds immediately surrounding it and fired
on Marines, that mosque lost the protection of the law of war. At that point,
Stalder said, the Marines' right to defend themselves became the most important
issue.

"If anybody shoots at us from a mosque, then we are going to do what we need to
do to protect ourselves," he said.

Stalder said the Marines subdued and suppressed the enemy operating from the
mosque, killing at least one.

During the firefight, in which the Marines called in an air strike that took
out a wall surrounding the mosque, Stalder said the Marines made every effort
to minimize damage inflicted. "But once we do return fire or engage, we
minimize the damage to the degree that we can, and we ensure that the response
is proportional to the threat."

Stalder said that once security is established, the Marines will return to help
the local citizens there rebuild any damage -- not only from this most recent
combat activity, but also from earlier neglect during the Saddam Hussein
regime.

The Marines are making steady headway in Iraq, "winning on the ground in our
area of operation, " Stalder said. "Where we operate, we are doing the job, we
are performing our mission, killing the bad guys and making life better for the
average Iraqi people in the western part of Iraq."

He said the Marines, many of whom served in Iraq during the county's
liberation, are trained, equipped and prepared to deal with whatever enemy
resistance they encounter. "We went fully prepared to engage and kill the enemy
wherever they chose to fight and we are doing that right now," he said. "We are
winning every firefight we engage in."

Stalder credited the Army's 82nd Airborne Division, which previously served in
the Marines' area of operation, with doing "a magnificent job" and in making a
smooth transition of authority to the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force.

The general said he feels confident that the Marines have the proper number and
mix of forces to accomplish their mission, but that his staff on the ground
will reassess the situation regularly. "I am very comfortable that we have
everything we need right now," Stalder said.

He said no discussion is under way involving the extension of Marines'
deployments in Iraq, most of which now extend about seven months.

For now, Stalder said the Marines' mission in Iraq remains basically the same
as during the past deployment: "to conduct security operations, kill or capture
the bad guys who threaten that, and help the local Iraqis rebuild their lives,
their government and their country."

Biography:
Maj. Gen. Keith Stalder [http://www.usmc.mil/genbios2.nsf/biographies/BE4F757C6A4D9843852568090048
4456?opendocument]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
82nd Airborne Division [http://www.bragg.army.mil/www-82DV/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Marines Breach Wall to Reach
Insurgents Using Mosque as Cover [/news/Apr2004/n04072004_200404074.html]

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 05:25 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Thursday Apr. 8, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 276-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 08, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Thursday, April 8, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Thursday, April 8, 2004

CONTRACTS

NAVY

Rolls Royce Corp., Defense North America, Indianapolis, Ind., is being
awarded a $26,039,280 not-to-exceed modification to convert a previously awarded
advanced acquisition contract (N00019-03-C-0355) to an undefinitized multi-year
contract for the fiscal year 2004 * 2007 procurement of twelve T56-A-427 engines
for the E-2C Hawkeye 2000 aircraft and TE-2C trainer. Work will be performed in
Indianapolis, Ind., and is expected to be completed in September 2007. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems
Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity.

Micro Systems, Inc.*, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., is being awarded a
$23,703,730 not-to-exceed, indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract for a
maximum quantity of 40 Naval Target Control systems as well as maximum quantities
of supplies necessary to procure ground control stations, transponders, kits, and
other system associated hardware. Work will be performed in Fort Walton Beach,
Fla., and is expected to be completed in April 2007. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the fiscal year. This contract was not competitively
procured. The Naval Air Systems Command Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md. is
the contracting activity (N00421-04-D-0071)

Booz Allen Hamilton, McLean, Va., is being awarded an $11,952,400
cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the procurement of technical and engineering
support services for communications-electronics advanced technology for multiple
Department of Defense organizations including, but not limited to, Navy, Army, Air
Force, Special Operation Commands, Joint Special Operations Command, as well as
Departments of Justice and Treasury, United States Custom Service, Immigration and
Naturalization Services, Defense Intelligence Agency and United States Coast
Guard. Work will be performed in Lexington Park, Md. (80 percent) and St. Inigoes,
Md. (20 percent) and is expected to be completed in April 2005. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. This contract was competitively
procured by a request for proposal in which 12 firms were placed on the bidder’s
list and 1 offer was received. The Naval Air Systems Command Aircraft Division,
Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity (N00421-04-C-0058).

General Electric Co., Lynn, Mass. is being awarded a $7,892,901
cost-plus-fixed-fee task order against a previously awarded indefinite-delivery,
indefinite-quantity contract (N00019-03-D-0003) for component improvement program
services for the T58 engines owned by the Navy and the government of Egypt. Work
will be performed in Lynn, Mass. (98 percent) and Evendale, Ohio (2 percent) and is
expected to be completed in December 2007. This contract combines the purchases of
the Navy ($7,647,739; 96.89 percent) and the government of Egypt ($245,162; 3.11
percent) under the Foreign Military Sales Program. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md.
is the contracting activity.

Lockheed Martin, Maritime Systems and Sensors-Syracuse, Syracuse, N.Y.,
was awarded on April 6, 2004, a firm-fixed-price contract for $13,833,164 to
provide new electronics, transmitters, receivers and power supplies to upgrade five
AN/TPS-59 (V) 3 radar systems and spares. Work will be performed in Syracuse,
N.Y., and is expected to be completed July 2005. Contract funds will not expire at
the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was a sole source procurement.
The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity
(M67854-04-C-2012).

AIR FORCE

_ _ Veridian Engineering, Buffalo, N.Y., is being awarded a $26,800,000
indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to provide for technical and
scientific support and applied research effort in support of the Human
Effectiveness Directorate and Biosciences and Protection Division of the Air Force
Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. This effort will
include support in the areas of acceleration research, altitude protection, spatial
orientation and disorientation, warfighter fatigue research, oxygen systems,
aeromedical research, biodynamics research, human vibration research,
anthropometry, speech and communications, applied biotechnology, toxicology
research, chemical and biological attack modeling and simulation, chemical agent
detection and mitigation, and life support equipment. The Air Force can issue
delivery orders totaling up to the maximum indicated above, though actual
requirements may necessitate less than this amount. At this time, $300,000 of the
funds has been obligated. This work will be complete by April 2009. Solicitation
began January 2004 and negotiations were completed April 2004. The Air Force
Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting
activity (FA8650-04-D-6472).

McDonnell Douglas Corp., Long Beach, Calif., is being awarded a
$12,308,215 firm fixed price contract modification to provide for incorporation of
on-board inert gas generating systems into 43 C-17 aircraft. At this time,
$9,626,137 of the funds has been obligated. This work will be complete by July
2008. Negotiations were completed March 2004. The Headquarters Aeronautical
Systems Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity
(F33657-01-C-2001, P00020).

ARMY

BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems, Nashua, N.H., was
awarded on April 2, 2004, a $25,280,954 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract
for 13 Advanced Threat Infrared Countermeasures Systems inclusive of Common Missile
Warning Systems and 40 Common Missile Warning Systems. Work will be performed in
Nashua, N.H., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 3, 2005. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on March 22, 2004. The U.S. Army Communications-Electronics
Command, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-04-C-J404).

DRS Test & Energy Management, Huntsville, Ala., was awarded on April 6,
2004, a delivery order amount of $11,943,406 as part of an $18,655,164
firm-fixed-price contract for 135 chassis modification/embedded diagnostics vehicle
sets and spares for the A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicles. Work will be performed in
Huntsville, Ala., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 30, 2005. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on Sept. 8, 2003. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments
Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (DAAE20-03-G-0001).

The Protective Group*, Miami Lakes, Fla., was awarded on April 7, 2004,
a $6,603,673 firm-fixed-price contract for a ballistic armament protection system
for the UH60A/L and the UH60A/L Medevac. Work will be performed in Miami Lakes,
Fla., and is expected to be completed by Nov. 4, 2004. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were two bids solicited on
March 26, 2004, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile
Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (GS-07F-9489G).

Pacific National Group, Tucson, Ariz., was awarded on April 7, 2004, a
$5,446,000 firm-fixed-price contract for a HH-60 squadron operations facility.
Work will be performed at the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., and is expected
to be completed by March 18, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of
the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the
World Wide Web on Feb. 19, 2004, and 11 bids were received. The U.S. Army Engineer
District, Los Angeles, Calif., is the contracting activity (W912PL-04-C-0009).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

_ _ Betz Dearborn Inc., Trevose, Pa., is being awarded a $9,911,625 firm
fixed price with economic price adjustment type contract for jet fuel for the Air
Force. Performance completion date is expected to be April 7, 2006. Contract
funds will not expire by the end of the fiscal year. There was one proposal
solicited and one responded. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center
Richmond, Richmond, Va.
(SP0450-04-D-4104)

*small business

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 05:42 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 281-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 08, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Staff Sgt. George S. Rentschler, 31, of Louisville, Ky., died, April 7,
in Baghdad, Iraq, when his military vehicle was hit with a rocket-propelled
grenade. Rentschler was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 35th Armored
Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-08-2004, 05:43 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 282-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 08, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Scott Q. Larson Jr., 22, of Houston, Texas, died April 5, in
Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained when his convoy was ambushed. Larson was
assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Armor
Division, Ray Barracks, Friedberg, Germany.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-09-2004, 07:54 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 278-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 09, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Capt. Brent L. Morel, 27, of Martin, Tenn., died April 7 from hostile
fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Reconnaissance Battalion,
1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-09-2004, 01:29 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 285-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 09, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Sgt. 1st Class Marvin L. Miller, 38, of Dunn, N.C., died April 7, in
Balad, Iraq, when he was shot while on traffic control duty. Miller was assigned
to the Army’s 1st Squadron, 4th U.S. Cavalry, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt,
Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-09-2004, 02:27 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 286-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 09, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Sgt. 1st Class William W. Labadie Jr., 45, of Bauxite, Ark., died April
7, in Baghdad, Iraq, when his camp was attacked by individuals using rockets and
small arms fire. Labadie was assigned to the Army National Guard’s Troop E(-),
151st Cavalry Squadron, 39th Infantry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, from Marianna,
Ark.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-09-2004, 03:36 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Coalition Overpowering Pockets of Resistance in Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 9, 2004 — Coalition forces today unilaterally suspended
offensive operations in Fallujah, Iraq, at the request of the Iraqi Governing
Council, officials in Baghdad reported.

This move, they noted, will allow council members to meet with the city
leadership and leaders of anti-coalition forces in an effort to quell the
violence.

The coalition called the suspension at noon Iraq time so Iraqi government-
provided supplies could be delivered to the area and to enable the city's
residents to tend to the wounded and dead, according to a statement issued by
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III, Coalition Provisional Authority administrator.

Bremer stressed that coalition forces retain the right of self-defense during
the suspension and "will remain fully prepared to resume offensive operations
unless significant progress in these discussions occur."

During a Baghdad news conference, Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt, deputy operations
director for Combined Joint Task Force 7, echoed Bremer's assertion that
coalition forces retain the right to defend themselves. "If they are fired on,
they will fire back," he said.

Kimmitt told reporters offensive operations in several other "hot spots" within
Iraq are "going well," and that the coalition expects to regain control
relatively quickly of any Iraqi facilities occupied by militia forces loyal to
Shiia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, who is wanted by Iraqi authorities in connection
with the murder of a rival cleric.

Besides Fallujah, Kimmitt said the only other Iraqi cities with "any measure of
Sadr control" are Najaf and parts of Karbala. The coalition is intentionally
keeping a low profile in both cities as respect for the Arbaeen religious
observance starting today to commemorate the martyrdom of a Shiia religious
leader.

Kimmitt said Sadr militia has been observed in some portions of Karbala, but
that the coalition is taking "a very passive role" to avoid disrupting
religious pilgrims, currently numbered at about 1.2 million.

"That was always the plan for Arbaeen, that coalition forces would take an
outside approach toward the situation so that the vast number of pilgrims …
could conduct their observances with Iraqi security forces and local
authorities taking the lead," Kimmitt said.

He said coalition forces also are remaining outside and on the edges of Najaf
in a "force protection status" during Arbaeen. "We understand that the Sadr
militia currently are the predominant force inside the city," he said.

In Kut, Task Force Stryker led an assault to regain control of the CPA compound
and three bridges into the town, Kimmitt said. Elements of the 2nd Battalion, 6th
Infantry Regiment, and 2nd Light Armored Cavalry Regiment destroyed the Sadr
bureau in the city and were to continue operations through the night. Kimmitt
said the coalition expects to regain firm control of all government facilities
and Iraqi police stations in the city by April 10.

"We have seen numerous instances in which the people of Al Kut, once they
realize that the Sadr militia is no longer in control, are coming outside their
houses and waving to coalition forces," he said. "We are fairly comfortable
that the town of Al Kut is well on its way to coming back under coalition
control."

Kimmitt outlined the security situation in other areas within Iraq.

The northern area around Mosul is "quite calm" and "quite stable," he said.

The north central area, which includes Tikrit, Kirkuk and Samarra, has
experienced "a slight uptick in the number of attacks," Kimmitt said, likely by
former Saddam Hussein regime elements taking advantage of violence elsewhere in
the country. Kimmitt said the 1st Infantry Division is conducting offensive
operations to control this threat.

In the west, Ramadi is "quite quiet" today, Kimmitt said, after a local sheik
came forward to name 11 insurgents who had been fighting coalition forces. The
coalition captured and maintains custody of all 11 insurgents, he said.

The south-central region of Iraq from Baghdad south, a predominantly Shiite
area where Sadr has been operating, has remained relatively quiet with only
minor disturbances, Kimmitt said. In the Sadr City section of Baghdad, the
coalition remains "in firm control," with Sadr and his followers posing no
threat the Iraqi security forces and coalition forces can't handle, he said.

The southern region, where the Multinational Division Southeast operates, is
generally quiet, Kimmitt said.

Italian troops in the region are continuing offensive operations against Sadr
militia in Nasiriyah, "but the latest reports from the Italian brigade is that
the resistance is minor and manageable," Kimmitt said.

Dan Senor, the Coalition Provisional Authority's senior spokesman, said pockets
of resistance within Iraq should not overshadow tremendous strides made since
the Saddam regime fell exactly one year ago today.

He said the insurgents fear the democratic process in Iraq and "are trying to
accomplish with the barrel of a gun what they could never accomplish at the
ballot box."

"The coalition liberated this country from a totalitarian regime," he said.
"There is lots of progress, but still lots to be done."

Biography:
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Infantry Division [http://www.1id.army.mil/]
Multinational
Division Southeast [http://www.cjtf7.com/the-coalition/coalition-forces.htm]

Seoulstriker

04-09-2004, 03:36 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: General Officer Assignment
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 283-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 09, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

General Officer Assignment

The Chief of Staff, Army announces the assignment of the following general officer:

Brigadier General Byron S. Bagby, Assistant Division Commander (Operations), 10th
Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, New York to Chief, Office of Military
Cooperation, Egypt.

Seoulstriker

04-09-2004, 04:47 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Committee Hears DoD's Plans for Intelligence Transformation
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 9, 2004 -- DoD officials testified before the Senate Armed
Services Strategic Subcommittee April 7 on plans to transform intelligence
programs within the department.

Among those testifying was Stephen A. Cambone, undersecretary of defense for
intelligence, who provided insight on how defense intelligence will evolve in
the coming months and years, telling committee members of several initiatives
by the department.

Two major efforts evolving and in development within the Defense Department are
"horizontal integration" and "persistent surveillance," he said.

The Pentagon "quite diligently" has been working on horizontal integration, an
effort designed to move information easily among users and in a format that is
best suited to their needs, Cambone said. "We haven't gotten to the bottom of
it yet," he said. "It is a difficult subject. We know how to do it
technically."

Persistent surveillance, Cambone said, would go a long way toward helping
provide DoD with the type of surveillance it will need in the future. Although
it is most frequently associated with platforms in space, and particularly with
space-based radar, he added, space systems and a space-based radar are not the
definition of that capability.

"It needs to be integrated with those assets that fly, those that are on the
ground and, indeed, with our human intelligence capabilities," he said.
"Together they form a complex of collection capability which can yield the kind
of persistence we will require across the wide range of activity in which we
are going to be engaged."

But information collected is "useless" without having a basis for moving that
information, Cambone said, and that's why DoD is working so hard on horizontal
integration. And once the information is moved, having an analytic cadre
capable of analyzing that data and extracting knowledge from it is essential,
he added.

Other initiatives to transform intelligence include plans to cut through dozens
of outdated directives and instructions that exist within DoD, some dating 30
years, he said.

"Our work turned up 30 main directives that affect the work of the intelligence
community within the Department of Defense," he noted. "Some of them date back
to the 1970s, a good number of them are from the '80s, and the balance from the
'90s. We are in the process of trying to reconcile those directives and update
them in light of the changing environment."

Cambone said the department is working to clean up internal processes.
Officials are reviewing a list of committees, boards, working groups and other
organizations within the department that have some responsibility for
intelligence.

"At last count, that list is 14 pages long," he said, "which tells you
something about the need to clean up our internal processes to assure that we
have more people who are capable of saying 'yes' to initiatives and being able
to move more quickly, and fewer people who can say 'no,' which is essentially
what 14 pages of boards, committees and working groups amount to."

Cambone also mentioned that the Pentagon has put a great deal of work in the
area of information sharing among the intelligence community, operating forces
and coalition partners to make sure intelligence information "can flow much
more smoothly and much more rapidly."

DoD's intelligence budget proposal to Congress for fiscal 2005 calls for
substantial increases in intelligence funding for the next five or six years,
Cambone said. Much of the increase, he explained, is aimed at improving the
analytic capability of the intelligence community.

He said the Pentagon is on schedule to have intelligence reforms reflected in
the fiscal 2006 budget bill.

Biography:
Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence
Stephen A. Cambone [/bios/cambone_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Prepared Testimony of
Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence Stephen A. Cambone for the Senate
Armed Services Committee, April 7, 2004 [http://armed-services.senate.gov/statemnt/2004/April/Cambone.pdf]
DoD Transformation [http://www.dod.mil/transformation/]
Senate Armed Services Committee [http://armed-services.senate.gov/]

Seoulstriker

04-09-2004, 08:21 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Friday Apr. 9, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 284-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 09, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Friday, April 9, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Friday, April 9, 2004

CONTRACTS

AIR FORCE

Lockheed Martin Integrated Systems and Solutions, Santa Maria, Calif.,
is being awarded a $23,949,670 cost-plus award-fee contract modification to provide
for the modernized flight safety, control/display, and network systems for the East
and West Coast Spacelift Ranges. This equipment will bridge the gap between
existing systems and requirements for acceptance of modernized systems. This
effort supports the range standardization and automation phase IIA. At this time
$10,050,693 of the funds has been obligated. This work will be complete by
September 2008. Negotiations were completed April 2004. The Headquarters Space
and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles, Calif., is the contracting activity
(F04701-95-C-0029, P00170).

General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems, San Diego, Calif., is being
awarded a $9,124,893 firm fixed price contract modification to provide for
readiness spares, consisting of consumables, support equipment, and line
replaceable units, in support of the MQ-1L Predator unmanned aerial vehicle. Total
funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by August 2005.
Negotiations were completed April 2004. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is the
contracting activity (F33657-03-C-3018, P00001).

NAVY

Forrester Construction Co., Rockville, Md., is being awarded $8,288,000
for firm-fixed price Task Order 0021 under an indefinite-quantity multiple award
construction contract for design and construction of the Marine Corps Reserve
Training Center, Quantico. The aggregate area of the training center is 4067
square meters and the vehicle maintenance facility is 521 square meters. The
project also includes a new covered wash rack, demolition of two buildings,
relocation of two above-ground tanks, landscaping and other site work. Work will
be performed in Quantico, Va., and is expected to be completed by July 2005.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic
contract was competitively procured with 60 offers solicited, 24 received, and
award made to multiple contractors on Aug. 19, 1999. The basic total contract
amount for all contractors is not to exceed $500,000,000 (base period and four
option years). The multiple contractors (five in number) may be solicited to
compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the existing contract.
Three offers were received for this task order. The Engineering Field Activity
Chesapeake, Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Wash., D.C., is the contracting
activity (N62477-99-D-0118).

ARMY

Griffin Services Inc., Atlanta, Ga., was awarded on April 7, 2004, a
$6,934,500 increment as part of a $42,591,818 cost-plus-award-fee contract for
buildings and grounds maintenance and repair, vehicle and equipment maintenance,
supply support, facility issues, transportation, solid waste and energy management,
environmental support, mobilization management, force modernization, engineering
design, real property management and master planning. Work will be performed at
Fort McCoy, Wis., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 5, 2005. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown
number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on June 29, 2001, and one bid was
received. The U.S. Army Contracting Agency, Fort, McCoy, Wis., is the contracting
activity (DAKF61-02-C-0016).

C.E. Niehoff & Company*, Evanston, Ill., was awarded on April 7, 2004,
a delivery order amount of $1,045,554 as part of a $30,895,249 firm-fixed-price
contract for High Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicle Generator engines. Work will be
performed in Evanston, Ill., and is expected to be completed by April 15, 2009.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were
an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Dec. 8, 2003, and
three bids were received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command,
Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-04-D-0128).

Penn State University, State College, Pa., was awarded on April 8,
2004, a delivery order amount of $100,000 as part of a $40,000,000 firm-fixed-price
and cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for engineering and technical support of
evaluation and insertion of advanced materials and technologies. Work will be
performed in State College, Pa., and is expected to be completed by March 30,
2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This
was a sole source contract initiated on March 1, 2004. The U.S. Army
Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting
activity (W15QKN-04-D-1012).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

_ _ Specialty Defense Systms*, Dunmore Pa., is being awarded a $6,156,000
firm fixed price with indefinite quantity type contract for large field packs with
internal frames for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Work will be
performed in McKee, Ky., and Jefferson City, Tenn. Performance completion date is
expected to be April 30, 2005. Contract funds will expire by the end of the
current fiscal year. Solicitation was done on-line via the Web and four
responded. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia,
Philadelphia, Pa. (SP0100-04-D-4258)

* Small Business

Seoulstriker

04-11-2004, 09:47 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Delaying Sovereignty Transfer is Enemies' Wish, Bush Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 10, 2004 * Delaying the scheduled June 30 transfer of
sovereignty in Iraq because of recent violence would play into the enemy's
hands, President Bush said today in his weekly national radio address.

"Some have suggested that we should respond to the recent attacks by delaying
Iraqi sovereignty," Bush said. "This is precisely what our enemies want. They
want to dictate the course of events in Iraq and to prevent the Iraqi people
from having a true voice in their future. They want America and our coalition
to falter in our commitments before a watching world. In these ambitions, the
enemies of freedom will fail. Iraqi sovereignty will arrive on June 30."

As the sovereignty transfer draws closer, the president said, a "small faction"
is trying to derail the process. Saddam Hussein loyalists are responsible for
attacks against coalition forces in some cities, he said.

"In other areas, attacks were incited by a radical named Muqtada al-Sadr, who
is wanted for the murder of a respected Shiite cleric," the president added.
"Al-Sadr has called for violence against coalition troops, and his band of
thugs (has) terrorized Iraqi police and ordinary citizens."

Bush said coalition forces in Operation Vigilant Resolve in Fallujah and in
Operation Resolute Sword toward the south will defeat the insurgents. "Our
coalition's quick-reaction forces are finding and engaging the enemy," he said.
"Prisoners are being taken, and intelligence is being gathered. Our decisive
actions will continue until these enemies of democracy are dealt with."

Bush noted that Iraq has an interim constitution ready for its new government,
and that United Nations Special Envoy Lakhdar Brahimi is consulting with a wide
range of Iraqis on the structure of the interim government that will assume
control July 1. "We welcome this U.N. engagement," the president said.

"The transition to sovereignty will mark the beginning of a new government, and
the end of the coalition's administrative duties," Bush said. "But the
coalition's commitment to Iraq will continue. We will establish a new American
embassy to protect our nation's interests. We will continue helping the Iraqi
people reconstruct their economy, undermined by decades of dictatorship and
corruption. And our coalition forces will remain committed to the security of
Iraq."

With elections for a permanent Iraqi government scheduled near the end of 2005,
Bush said that government can count on continued help from the coalition. "We
will stand with the Iraqi people as long as necessary, to ensure that their
young democracy is stable and secure and successful," he said.

Bush said liberty in Iraq is in the best interest of the Iraqi people, the
Middle East and all freedom-loving countries, and that it will make for a safer
world. "As the greater Middle East increasingly becomes a place where freedom
flourishes," he said, "the lives of millions in that region will be bettered,
and the American people and the entire world will be more secure.

"From the first days of the war on terror, I said our nation would face periods
of struggle and testing," he continued. "As the June 30 transition approaches,
we will continue to see a test of wills between the enemies of freedom and its
defenders. We will win this test of wills, and overcome every challenge,
because the cause of freedom and security is worth our struggle."

Americans in uniform have the American people's gratitude and prayers, Bush
said.

"This weekend, many of the men and women who serve that cause in uniform will
celebrate Easter and Passover far from home," he noted. "In this season that
celebrates hope and freedom, our nation remembers in prayer the good and the
brave people of our military. They are the best of America, and America is
firmly behind them."

Related Site:
Text
of President Bush's Radio Address, April 10, 2004 [http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/04/20040410.html]

Seoulstriker

04-11-2004, 09:47 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Coalition in Afghanistan Seizes Weapons
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 10, 2004 * Coalition officials in Afghanistan today provided
details on recent weapons seizures and other activities at a press briefing in
the Afghan capital of Kabul.

During a cordon-and-search patrol April 7, U.S. forces found a small cache of
weapons and munitions south of Khowst. Soldiers confiscated blasting caps,
passports, and more than 100 7.62 mm armor-piercing and tracer rounds. Two
Afghans were detained and questioned.

On April 8 southeast of Ghazni, coalition soldiers confiscated nearly 30 SA-13
guided missiles, about 400 76 mm M99 anti-tank cannon projectiles and rockets,
11 guided-missile tail sections, more than 50 S-5K-P1 57 mm rockets, more than
20 57 mm projectiles, several 122 mm projectiles, more than 5,000 fuses of
various types and several 14.5 and 23 mm weapons components.

Also on April 8, a box of demolitions containing detonators and fuses to 107mm
rockets was found at a bakery near the Sarobi district. In Gardez, the local
police chief turned in 400 AK-47 assault rifles and several 14.5 and 23 mm
anti-aircraft weapon components.

In a compound north of Deh Rawood on April 9, coalition forces found a 107 mm
rocket, an anti-tank mine, wire with a battery, and propaganda materials for
the Taliban and al Qaeda.

One coalition soldiers and three from the Afghan National Army were injured
April 7 when they came under fire while conducting operations northeast of
Geresk. The four injured soldiers were treated at Kandahar Air Field, and the
coalition solider was then evacuated to a military hospital in Germany, where
he is being treated for a back injury and was listed in stable condition.

Seoulstriker

04-11-2004, 09:47 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Fallujah 'Under Control' as Gunfire Punctuates Cease-Fire
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 10, 2004 -- Sporadic gunfire continues in Iraq despite the
coalition's offer of a cease-fire in Fallujah, coalition officials said today
at a Baghdad news conference.

"In Fallujah, the situation is under control," said Army Brig. Gen. Mark
Kimmitt, deputy operations director for Combined Joint Task Force 7. "The 1st
Marine Expeditionary Force is responding to enemy provocations and attacks,
although suspension of offensive operations on the part of the MEF continues."

Coalition forces unilaterally suspended offensive military
Operations in Fallujah April 10, and this morning issued a statement saying
they were prepared to implement a cease-fire starting at noon today. "If the
cease-fire holds," the statement said, "talks regarding the re-establishment of
a legitimate Iraqi authority in Fallujah will begin."

The statement went on to say the cease-fire would depend on whether insurgent
forces abide by it. "Irrespective of this cease-fire, coalition forces will
always retain the inherent right of self-defense," the statement said.

Kimmitt said that despite the suspension of offensive operations in Fallujah,
"the enemy seems to continue to fight." Marines still are being fired upon, he
said, and are responding when necessary. Though the Marines continue to observe
the suspension, "they still retain at all times the inherent right of self-
defense," he added.

The general offered several possible explanations for the insurgents' apparent
disregard of the cease-fire offer.

"It may be a communications problems, where we have not gotten the message out
to the leadership," he said. "It may be that there is no leadership there, but
(only) small clusters that haven't gotten the word. And it may be that they've
chosen to fight. If it is the latter, then that's probably the wrong decision
to be making."

A team of coalition officials held discussions with Iraqi Governing Council
members today, seeking a solution to the attacks in Fallujah and Kut. Kimmitt
said coalition officials are awaiting the return of a team sent to Fallujah to
negotiate an end to hostilities in the city, and he spelled out what the
coalition hopes to achieve from the talks. Coalition officials want the
insurgents to lay down their arms and hand over the people responsible for
murdering four American contractors in Fallujah on March 31, he said.

"We would also like to hear that these people are willing to denounce their
membership to extremist groups," Kimmitt continued. "We would also like to hear
that they are prepared to move forward with justice, and also prepared to move
forward with turning Iraq into a democratic, sovereign nation."

More than 60 anti-coalition insurgents have been captured over the past few
days, Kimmitt said. Most are Iraqis, but the detainees include people holding
passports from Egypt, Syria and Sudan, he added.

Kimmitt said the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force faced multiple attacks today in
Fallujah, although he said the current security situation there is stable.

In Kut, another city were coalition forces have faced heavy insurgent activity,
coalition forces began offensive operations April 8 to restore coalition
presence in that city, Kimmitt said. Soldiers there have since secured three
bridges and used attack helicopters and AC-130 gunships to take back control of
the coalition compound in Kut, he added.

Soldiers killed three enemies and detained 74 suspects overnight after
recapturing a fourth bridge, several municipal buildings and a TV station,
Kimmitt said, and they seized weapons, ammunition and bomb-making material. He
said coalition soldiers will use cordon-and-search operations in Kut to destroy
the militia of radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr and to regain control of
municipal buildings.

U.S. Central Command reported today that two U.S. soldiers were killed late
April 9 by insurgent attacks, and that an airman had been killed in a mortar
attack at Balad Air Base shortly after midnight today.

Central Command officials reported that a 1st Cavalry Division soldier was
killed and another was wounded at about 8:30 a.m. April 9 when their quick-
reaction force was targeted by a coordinated attack. The soldiers were
responding to an earlier mortar attack near Camp Cooke. The attack consisted of
an improvised explosive device, followed by small-arms fire, CENTCOM reported.
The wounded soldier has been returned to duty, officials said.

In a separate attack, a 13th Corps Support Command soldier was killed and 12
were injured when their convoy was attacked at about 12:25 p.m. April 9 near
the Baghdad International Airport, CENTCOM officials said. The injured were
evacuated to Logistics Base Seitz, and some were later taken to combat support
hospitals.

Three Marines serving with the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force were killed April
8 while conducting security and stability operations near the Anbar province,
CENTCOM reported.

At today's Baghdad news briefing, Kimmitt summarized recent operations
throughout Iraq.

The northern zone of operations remains stable, he said, as Task Force Olympia
continues offensive and security operations with Iraqi police and security
forces. The governor and police chief there remain in control, he added, with
the cooperation of the police and the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps.

The north central zone has seen increased activity over the past four days by
anti-coalition cell members and militia forces loyal to Sadr. Kimmitt said.
Though he termed most of these attacks as "uncoordinated and ineffective," he
added that some 40 Iraqis were reported killed April 9 in Baqubah, though he
provided no further details.

In Baghdad, Kimmitt said, the 1st Armored Division continues offensive
operations against Sadr militia and a group that calls itself Mohammed's Army.
Kimmitt said soldiers from the unit conducted two intelligence-based attacks to
destroy and capture enemy targets and secure government facilities.

The security situation is stable in Iraq's south-central zone, Kimmitt said,
and security is high in Karbala, where an estimated 1.5 million religious
pilgrims have come to celebrate Arbaeen. Ceremonies are to be held until
Sunday. Kimmitt said the city hall there remains under coalition control, but
continues to be targeted by small-arms fire and rocket propelled grenades.

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
1st Armored Division [http://www.1ad.army.mil/]
AC-130
Gunship [http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?fsID=71]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Delaying Sovereignty Transfer
is Enemies' Wish, Bush Says [/news/Apr2004/n04102004_200404101.html]
Coalition Overpowering Pockets
of Resistance in Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04092004_200404091.html]
Marines Prepared, Trained for
Iraq Mission, Says Commander [/news/Apr2004/n04082004_200404087.html]
Bremer Urges Arbaeen Pilgrims
in Iraq to Be Vigilant [/news/Apr2004/n04082004_200404083.html]
Coalition Working to Pacify
Fallujah, Destroy Sadr Militia [/news/Apr2004/n04082004_200404081.html]

Seoulstriker

04-11-2004, 08:22 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Helicopter Crew Killed When Shot Down Near Baghdad Airport
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 11, 2004 * Both crewmembers of an Army AH-64 Apache attack
helicopter died today when insurgents shot down their helicopter near Baghdad
International Airport in Iraq.

Meanwhile, near the walled suburb of Abu Ghraib outside of Fallujah, there are
still reports of fighting despite a call for a cease-fire, Coalition
Provisional Authority officials reported at a Baghdad news conference.

The coalition and the Iraqi Governing Council are seeking a political end to
violence in Fallujah.

"We are now looking for the political track to be the method by which we re-
establish Iraqi control of the city of Fallujah, (and) get legitimate Iraqi
authority over that city, not extremist control," Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt,
deputy operations director of Combined Joint Task Force 7, told reporters at
the news conference.

Senior spokesman Dan Senor said several Iraqi political and governing council
leaders approached the coalition and indicated that, if given a safe passage
into the city, they would to try to minimize the bloodshed. "And we believed it
prudent to give them the opportunity to do so," Senor said. "We are now
waiting to see where that goes."

Senor said the coalition is working to clear the way for the council delegation
to get into and out of Fallujah easily to have discussions with leaders there.

"We trying to get access for the delegation; we're trying to get the fighting
to stop; we're trying to minimize the bloodshed; and we will go from there,"
Senor said.

Kimmitt said the Marines in and around Fallujah are maintaining the coalition's
unilateral suspension of offensive operations in Fallujah, which was announced
April 9. But sporadic fighting continues, he added, started by insurgents.

"In some cases they are attacking, and in some cases just taking pot shots,"
the general explained. He said it's unclear whether the insurgents have any
type of leadership structure, so it's possible those still fighting aren't
aware of the cease-fire.

Baghdad has been generally quiet for the past 48 hours, Kimmitt said. He
dismissed reports that coalition forces had withdrawn from Baghdad and had lost
control of Sadr City to a militia loyal to radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-
Sadr.

"We do not see a significant Sadr militia presence in Sadr City," Kimmitt said.
U.S. Army officials report that the Iraqi government in Baghdad has control of
that city, he added.

In Kut, the coalition has reestablished control of the city, Kimmitt said.
"There was some method or manner of Sadr control over the city for a small
period of time," he said, but coalition infantry moved in and now controls "the
vast majority" of Kut, he added. "It is clear the people of al Kut appreciate
the coalition presence," Kimmitt said, "although many of the people are staying
inside of their houses."

Kimmitt also reported that Italian forces have regained control of Nazaria.
Though small bands of Sadr militia likely are hiding out there, contact has
been negligible, Kimmitt said. The coalition plans to conduct intelligence-
based raids to clean up the remaining pockets of resistance, he added.

The most significant presence of Sadr militia is in the towns of Karbala and
Najaf, Kimmitt said, where they are mixed in with millions of pilgrims
observing the Muslim religious holiday al-Arbaeen, an observance the coalition
wants to respect.

"At this point we don't want to go into those cities," Kimmitt said. He said
the coalition has forces on the outskirts of both cities, and when the time is
right, will re-establish coalition and Iraqi government control.

"We don't we see military actions preferable. We don't see military actions as
inevitable," he said. "We seek any resolution that would allow, very simply,
restoration of legitimate authority into the towns of Najaf and Karbala."

Kimmitt told reporters that despite small pockets of resistance from Sadr's
militia, coalition forces are poised to finish off what remains of them.

"They are no longer an active offensive threat," he said. "They will be a
threat for some time to come, but coalition forces certainly have the
capability to maneuver forces anywhere in the country to finish the destruction
of the militia as long as it remains a threat to the people and progress of
Iraq."

Kimmitt said Iraqi and coalition authorities believe the overall security
situation is improving. "We're making progress and trying to get back to the
most important aspect, and that is to move the political process forward, move
the process of handing governance over."

Senor said that earlier this week Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III issued a
statement asking for Iraqis to be vigilant of possible terrorist attacks that
could occur during this week's religious holiday.

Coalition officials, he said, believe that past insurgent attacks at holy cites
have been orchestrated by al Qaeda leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. Senor noted
Zarqawi has claimed responsibility for past terrorist attacks in Najaf, and
most recently for an attack during the religious holiday of Ashoura.

Senor reminded reporters that an intercepted document drafted by Zarqawi laid
out a very clear plan for provoking civil war in Iraq, central to which was
engaging in terrorist attacks against Shiia at religious holy sites and other
parts of the country. The intercepted letter, he said, was meant for delivery
outside Iraq to the highest officials of the al Qaeda terrorist network.

The millions of Iraqis observing the al-Arbaeen period, Senor said, are
especially vulnerable to the types of terrorist attacks Zarqawi has
orchestrated in the past. Senor said he wanted to remind all Iraqis of "being
vigilant, being very aware of the very real threat that faces Iraqis,
especially many of the religious Shiia during this time."

Biography:
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
Text of
Intercepted Zarqawi Letter [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/transcripts/20040212_zarqawi_full.html]
AH-64
Apache [http://www.army.mil/fact_files_site/apache/index.html]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Fallujah 'Under Control' as
Gunfire Punctuates Cease-Fire [/news/Apr2004/n04102004_200404103.html]
Delaying Sovereignty Transfer
is Enemies' Wish, Bush Says [/news/Apr2004/n04102004_200404101.html]
Coalition Overpowering Pockets
of Resistance in Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04092004_200404091.html]
Marines Prepared, Trained for
Iraq Mission, Says Commander [/news/Apr2004/n04082004_200404087.html]
Bremer Urges Arbaeen Pilgrims
in Iraq to Be Vigilant [/news/Apr2004/n04082004_200404083.html]
Coalition Working to Pacify
Fallujah, Destroy Sadr Militia [/news/Apr2004/n04082004_200404081.html]

Seoulstriker

04-11-2004, 08:23 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: President Celebrates Easter With Families at Fort Hood
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 11, 2004 * President and Mrs. Bush visited Fort Hood, Texas,
today to observe Easter with the families of deployed soldiers.

"It's our honor to have celebrated this holy day with family members whose
loved one is in Iraq," the president said in a brief meeting with reporters.
"Fort Hood has made a mighty contribution to freedom in Iraq and to security
for the country. I value my time with the family members and those who
sacrifice on behalf of the country."

The president acknowledged that the spike in violence over the last week in
Iraq has been difficult, but he said a free Iraq will make for a safer world.
"It was a tough week last week, and my prayers and thoughts are with those who
paid the ultimate price for our security," the president said. "A free Iraq
will make the world more peaceful. A free Iraq is going to change the world."

Bush said he has spoken with Army Gen. John Abizaid twice in recent days, and
that the U.S. Central Command chief knows he can ask for more manpower if he
needs it. "He believes, like I believe, that this violence we've seen is part
of a few people trying to stop progress toward democracy," Bush said.

The United States is tough, but open-minded in its approach in Iraq, the
president said. "Members of the (Iraqi) Governing Council wanted a chance to
move into Fallujah and see if they could bring some order to the gangs and
violence," he said. "And as you can tell, our military is giving them a chance
to do so." Coalition forces suspended offensive operations in Fallujah April 9
to allow Iraqi leaders to seek a political solution that would restore
legitimate Iraqi authority in the city.

"I know what we're doing in Iraq is right," Bush said. "It's right for long-
term peace. It's right for the security of our country. And it's hard work."

Biography:
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Fort Hood, Texas [http://www.hood.army.mil/fthood/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-11-2004, 08:23 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Building Iraqi Security Forces Must Continue, Sanchez Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 11, 2004 * The commander of coalition forces in Iraq said
today that continuing to build Iraqi security forces is key to a successful
transfer of sovereignty.

Appearing on NBC's "Meet the Press," Army Lt. Gen. Ricardo S. Sanchez told host
Tim Russert that the refusal of some Iraqi army members to join in the fighting
in Fallujah uncovered some "significant challenges."

"We knew that there were some risks that we were taking by standing up security
forces quickly," he said, "and we also know that it's going to take us awhile
to stand up reliable forces that can accept responsibility for both the
internal and the external security of the country. We've got to continue to
work that."

Sanchez emphasized the coalition is committed to establishing those forces and
turning the security mission over to them as quickly as possible.

Handing over security to the Iraqi people will depend upon the coalition's
ability to quickly stand up Iraqi security forces, especially the police, the
army and the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps. "We've clearly showed some weaknesses
here in the last couple of weeks," Sanchez said. "And we are retackling the
problem with greater intensity to identify what leadership has to be built, and
that will be all the way from the national level down to the local level."

This involves building the security forces in small units and police stations
to provide the law and order in the cities, he said, and also giving Iraq the
external security capacity it will need over the next couple of years. "I think
it's going to take us awhile," he said, "but we're committed to it, and we'll
be here until that's done."

Sanchez said the 129,000 U.S. service members currently in Iraq are an adequate
number, "and we'll manage their redeployment as the operational and tactical
situation dictates."

Biography:
Lt. Gen. Ricardo
S. Sanchez [http://www.cjtf7.com/command-info/senior-leaders.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]

Seoulstriker

04-11-2004, 08:23 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Bremer Blames Violence on 'Poison' in Iraqi Society
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 11, 2004 * A "poison" that built up through Saddam Hussein's
regime in Iraq is responsible for the recent wave of violence in the country,
the coalition's civilian administrator said today.

Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III appeared from Baghdad on three Sunday news
programs.

"There is a lot of poison still in this society, and it's got to come out,"
Bremer told Chris Wallace on the "Fox News Sunday" program. "And, frankly, it's
better that it comes out now rather than later. It would have built up even
more danger, I think, later."

Acknowledging that recent violence has made for "a rough week" in Iraq, Bremer
insisted a relative handful of insurgents don't reflect the will of the Iraqi
people.

"You know, you have to step back a little bit," he said. "We liberated a
country of 25 million people here. We have a few thousand people who are
opposed to the democratic vision of the future of Iraq. They represent, as I
said earlier, something of a poison in the body politic, and we're going to
have to deal with that.

"But we ought to keep a little perspective on this," Bremer continued. "There
has been a huge amount of progress. The Iraqis, in poll after poll, tell you
that they find themselves better off economically now than they were a year ago
and expect to be much better off in another year. So our job is to keep them
focused on that hopeful future while dealing with these extremists who are
basically anti-democratic and don't believe in that future."

On NBC's "Meet the Press," Bremer said repeated polling of the Iraqi people
shows that "90 percent or more" want democracy in Iraq. "In these insurgents in
Fallujah and in the mobs that support (radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr),
we are seeing anti-democratic forces, enemies of freedom," Bremer said. "And
they simply have to be gotten out of the body politic here for Iraq to move
forward. And that's the process we're in now."

Bremer told Russert that while the makeup of the interim Iraqi government that
will take charge of the country June 30 still is unclear, the transfer of
sovereignty will take place as scheduled.

"We've always said that there are two dimensions to dealing with the problems
of Iraq," he said. "One, of course, is the military dimension, which we're
working on right now. But the other is to give a political perspective for the
Iraqis to have more and more responsibility. We've been working on that for
months."

Bremer said the coalition wants to get an interim Iraqi government in place
before the June 30 transfer of sovereignty so it can get some practice before
taking over. U.N. Special Envoy Lakhdar Brahimi is working with the coalition
and Iraqi leaders toward that end, Bremer said.

"And I'm confident that working with him and with the Iraqi people, we in fact
will get that," Bremer noted. "We'll get a representative government in place
before June 30."

On ABC's "This Week," Bremer updated host George Stephanopoulos on the status
of the cease-fire in Fallujah. "What we're trying to do is simply get the
forces to stop firing, have the insurgents stop firing on the Marines, and then
we'll have a delegation from the (Iraqi) Governing Council go in, and we'll try
to find out how we can proceed from there," he said. "But at the moment, we're
just trying to stabilize the cease-fire."

Bremer placed the blame for recent violence in Iraq squarely on Sadr's
shoulders. "Muqtada al-Sadr's forces attacked and killed Americans in Najaf
last Saturday," he said. "We did not start this. They started it. They attacked
and killed people working for the coalition: a Salvadoran (and) they attacked
Spanish soldiers and American soldiers in Najaf last Saturday. I don't think
anybody would argue that we shouldn't react to that.

"He then rose up, had his people rise up in other parts (of the country and) in
other cities, attacking Iraqi police stations, taking over government
buildings, intimidating the people," Bremer continued. "He is basically
violating the entire concept of a peaceful society which is governed by the
rule of law."

He said most Shiia in Iraq share that view. "What is interesting is that the
vast majority of the Shiia people in this country understand that, and are
happy to have us deal with him," the coalition administrator said.

As he has maintained throughout his tenure, Bremer said insurgent violence is a
sign that enemies of law and order are increasingly afraid a free and stable
Iraq is close at hand. "I think the insurgency we're seeing now in places like
Fallujah is an indication of people being worried that in fact we're going to
succeed here. And we're just going to have to deal with them. We're going to
have to see it through and pass sovereignty to an Iraqi government as scheduled
on June 30."

Biography:
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 01:12 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Negotiations Continue As Marines Take Fire Around Fallujah
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2004 * Coalition Provisional Authority and Iraqi
officials are continuing negotiations with insurgents in Fallujah and southern
Iraq, CPA officials said in Baghdad today.

Fighting across Iraq has caused about 70 U.S. and coalition combat deaths since
April 1, Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt told reporters at a Baghdad news
conference. The general estimated enemy casualties to be "10 times" over
coalition forces' losses during that period.

At present, Kimmitt added, "there's no reliable figure" on the number of
civilian casualties incurred during the Fallujah fighting. Kimmitt is deputy
operations director for Combined Joint Task Force 7.

U.S. Marines deployed around Fallujah are taking a watch-and-wait attitude
during the cease-fire, Kimmitt said, while enemy forces in the area continue to
snipe at the Marines.

Kimmitt said the coalition's cease-fire should not be construed as an
indication that enemy resistance in Fallujah has eroded the Marines' will and
ability to fight.
"With regards to the question whether the Marines have stopped fighting because
they've run out of fight, I can tell you that there is nothing further from the
truth," the general emphasized. "The fact is that the Marines are ready, on
order, to continue the operations to complete the destruction of enemy forces
in Fallujah."

The Marines, he added, are "more than capable, they are more than equipped,
they are more than armed" to do the job.

U.S., coalition and Iraqi officials, Kimmitt explained, are "working a
political track … to achieve the ultimate end-state, which is to restore
legitimate Iraqi control" of Fallujah.

A reporter noted Baathist insurgents in Baghdad are distributing leaflets
warning Iraqis not to support U.S. and coalition efforts. That, Kimmitt
observed, is "just another tactic on the part of the enemy to try to cow the
population into relenting on their deep aspiration to move toward sovereignty
and democracy and individual rights."

Insurgent elements in Iraq, Kimmitt emphasized, will "use any tactic they can -
- whether it's combat, whether it's intimidation, whether it's terrorism -- to
try to derail the process."

He said coalition and Iraqi security forces "remain resolved to attacking these
elements, defeating these elements, killing these elements, and moving
forward."

Insurgents in Iraq "are trying to use mob violence to determine who will have
power in Iraq … rather than relying on elections," said CPA senior spokesman
Dan Senor, who accompanied Kimmitt at the briefing.

Insurgents who killed and debased four U.S. contractors in Fallujah, plus other
disruptive elements such as outlaw Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's militia,
represent a societal "poison" left over from decades of dictatorial rule in
Iraq, Senor pointed out.

It is "critical," Senor said, to confront insurgent elements in Iraq "now,
rather than after" the slated June 30 handover of sovereignty to an Iraqi
government. Otherwise, "the task will only become more difficult down the
road," he concluded.

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Bremer Blames Violence on
'Poison' in Iraqi Society [/news/Apr2004/n04112004_200404114.html]
Fallujah 'Under Control' as
Gunfire Punctuates Cease-Fire [/news/Apr2004/n04102004_200404103.html]
Delaying Sovereignty Transfer
is Enemies' Wish, Bush Says [/news/Apr2004/n04102004_200404101.html]
Coalition Overpowering Pockets
of Resistance in Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04092004_200404091.html]
Marines Prepared, Trained for
Iraq Mission, Says Commander [/news/Apr2004/n04082004_200404087.html]

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 01:13 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: U.S. Task Force Reports Casualties
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2004 -- Combined Joint Task Force 7 today reported coalition
forces casualties sustained April 10 and 11 in Iraq.

According to CJTF 7 news releases, three Marines from 1st Marine Expeditionary
Force were killed April 11 in enemy action in Anbar province. Two of the Marines
were killed in action; the third died later from wounds during action.

One 1st Infantry Division soldier was killed and another was wounded when 15 anti-
coalition insurgents attacked a reconnaissance patrol near Khalis April 10. The
wounded soldier was reported in stable condition after evacuation to a coalition
medical facility near Baqubah.

Also, a Task Force 1st Armored Division soldier died April 11 from wounds received
in an improvised device attack April 10 in Baghdad.

The names of the deceased are being withheld pending next-of-kin notification.

Related Sites:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
1st Infantry Division [http://www.1id.army.mil/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Negotiations Continue As Marines
Take Fire Around Fallujah [/news/Apr2004/n04122004_200404121.html]
Helicopter Crew Killed When Shot
Down Near Baghdad Airport [/news/Apr2004/n04112004_200404111.html]
Fallujah 'Under Control' as
Gunfire Punctuates Cease-Fire [/news/Apr2004/n04102004_200404103.html]

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 03:11 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Air Force Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 300-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 12, 2004
Media Contact: Air Force Public Affairs - (703) 695-0640
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Air Force Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of an airman who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Airman 1st Class Antoine J. Holt, 20, of Kennesaw, Ga., died April 10
as a result of injuries sustained when his tent was hit by a mortar round at Balad
Air Field, Iraq. He was assigned to the 603rd Air Control Squadron, Aviano Air
Base, Italy.

For further information related to this release please contact Aviano
Air Base Public Affairs, 39-434-667344.

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 03:12 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: 2 Soldiers, 7 Contractors Missing in Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2004 * Two American soldiers and seven U.S. contractors
are missing following an attack on a convoy in Iraq, the top two U.S. generals
in the region said today from Baghdad.

The seven missing civilians work for Kellogg Brown & Root, Army Lt. Gen.
Ricardo Sanchez, commander of Combined Joint Task Force 7, said via a video
link with reporters in the Pentagon. KBR is a major American defense contractor
in overseas locations.

None of the missing Americans was identified. Army Gen. John Abizaid, commander
of U.S. Central Command, said the nine individuals are unaccounted for
following an attack on a convoy in Abu Ghraib two days ago. The generals
declined to give further details.

In other news, Abizaid has requested a small number of additional troops in
Iraq. He described what he requested as "two brigades worth of combat power,"
but refused to give more specific numbers.

"What I've asked for is essentially to have a strong mobile combat-arms
capability," he said.

Abizaid said he had made the request through the Joint Staff to Defense
Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. A senior DoD official said Rumsfeld would make a
decision on the request "soon."

Abizaid also discussed the volatile situation in Fallujah. He said reports
among Arab media outlets that U.S. military forces are targeting civilians in
the region are false.

"We absolutely do not do that, and I think everybody knows that," he said,
noting that some regional media outlets have "not been truthful in their
reporting."

"It is absolutely clear that American forces are doing their very best to
protect civilians and at the same time get at the military targets there," he
said.

Sanchez said the tactics being used in Fallujah are "fairly straightforward,"
and he echoed Abizaid's statements on protecting civilians.

"We are being very deliberate and precise in the application of that combat
power to prevent any wounding or injuring of noncombatants in the area,"
Sanchez said.

In closing, Abizaid commended the men and women of the U.S. armed forces "for
incredible sacrifice during a very tough period of fighting" over the past
week.

"They have not only brought honor and respect to the armed forces of the United
States," he said, "but they have added immeasurably to making Iraq a better
place for the future."

Biographies:
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld [/bios/rumsfeld_bio.html]
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
Lt. Gen. Ricardo
S. Sanchez [http://www.cjtf7.com/command-info/senior-leaders.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 03:12 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Magazine Names DoD As Employer of Year
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Rudi Williams
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2004 * Readers of Careers and the Disabled magazine have chosen
the Defense Department as public-sector employer of the year.

Jim Schneider, the magazine's editor, said DoD received the award "for its commitment
to recruiting, hiring and promoting people with disabilities."

Clarence A. Johnson, DoD's principal director for equal opportunity, accepted the
award for the department recently during the magazine's 12th annual awards reception in
New York City.

With more than 600,000 civilian employees at more than 6,000 locations worldwide, DoD
offers a lot of job opportunities in a lot of places, Johnson said at the ceremony.
More than 5,870 of those jobs * representing 1 percent of DoD's workforce -- are held
by people with severe disabilities who are targeted by the Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission for emphasis in federal affirmative-action programs, he noted.

"This year, in our annual reader survey, our readers selected the U.S. Department of
Defense as one of their top five employers for whom they would most like to work, or
whom they believe are progressive in hiring people with disabilities," Schneider said
in a message to the DoD equal employment opportunity office.

Careers and the Disabled magazine is designed to help companies and other employers
connect with people with disabilities at the undergraduate, graduate or professional
level seeking employment. Published quarterly, the magazine contains articles on
disabilities and careers. It also has general job postings and a list of companies
actively recruiting and seeking to employ people with disabilities and develop a more
diversified work force. Each issue features a special Braille section.

Seven DoD components had exhibits at the magazine's career fair: the National Security
Agency, Defense Intelligence Agency, Department of the Army (Fort Monmouth, N.J.),
Naval Surface Warfare Center (Dahlgren, Va.), Department of the Air Force (Randolph
Air Force Base, Texas), Defense Logistics Agency and the Defense Threat Reduction
Agency.

Johnson noted that in December, Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld established a
DoD-wide goal to increase the number of disabled employees to 2 percent of the
department's work force.

The average grade for DoD's employees with targeted disabilities, Johnson said, is 8.1
in the white-collar work force and 6.6 in the blue-collar work force in 15-grade pay
scales. Average salaries are $43,247 and $36,893, respectively.

"These employees have worked for the department an average of 19.6 years. Their
average age is 47.6 years," Johnson said. "Sixty-four percent are male. Thirty-six
percent are female. Twenty-three percent are minorities. Twenty-three percent of
these employees are disabled veterans. In that group, 10 percent have disabilities
rated 30 percent or more by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

"They're employed around the world in the full range of DoD's civilian occupations,"
he continued, "from pipe fitters and mathematicians to clerks and engineers, from
cryptographers and metalworkers to logistics technicians and maintenance personnel."

Johnson said DoD has three programs that help it lead the way in employment of
individuals with disabilities:

The Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program -- better known as "the CAP" -- is the
federal government's centrally funded accommodations program. It provides assistive
technology and services -- at no cost to the requesting organization -- for employees
with disabilities throughout DoD and in more than 50 federal partner agencies. For
details, call (703) 681-8813 or TTY (703) 681-0881. Information also is available on
the Tricare Web site.

DoD also co-sponsors with the Labor Department the governmentwide Workforce
Recruitment Program for College Students with Disabilities. The program provides
summer work experience, and in some cases full-time employment, for college students
with disabilities. Talented college students with disabilities from more than 175
colleges and universities are recruited for the program. They represent all majors,
and range from college freshmen to graduate students and law students with many levels
of experience.

Each year the Office of the Secretary of Defense funds a minimum of 200 summer jobs
through the program at DoD activities nationwide. For details, call (202) 693-7880 or
TTY (202) 693-7881, or visit the Labor Department's Web site.

Finally, The Defense Applicant Assistance Office helps people pursue DoD civilian
careers by providing a conduit between them and DoD recruiters using Web technology,
e-mail and live interaction with DAAO staff advisers. The staff offers help with
required documentation and forms, and provides advisory guidance on responding to
vacancy announcements. For details, call (888) DOD4USA (363-4872) toll-free, or TTY
703-696-5436. Information also is available at the DAAO Web site.

Biography:
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld [/bios/rumsfeld_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
DoD Equal Opportunity [http://www.dod.mil/prhome/misseo.html]
Office of the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense
for Personnel and Readiness [http://www.dod.mil/prhome/]
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission [http://www.eeoc.gov/]
Department of Labor [http://www.dol.gov/]
Computer/Electronic Accommodation Program
[http://www.tricare.osd.mil/cap/]
Workforce Recruitment Program
for College Students with Disabilities [http://www.dol.gov/odep/programs/workforc.htm]
Defense Applicant Assistance
Office [http://www.go-defense.com/daao-office.html]

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 03:13 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualties
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 303-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 12, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of three Marines
who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Eric A. Ayon, 26, of Arleta, Calif., died April 9 from hostile
fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine
Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Pfc. Chance R. Phelps, 19, of Clifton, Colo., died April 9 from hostile
fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine
Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Lance Cpl. John T. Sims Jr., 21, of Alexander City, Ala., died April 10
from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion,
4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp
Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 03:29 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 304-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 12, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Staff Sgt. Don S. McMahan, 31, of Nashville, Tenn., died April 9 in
Baghdad, Iraq, when individuals using rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire
attacked his convoy. McMahan was assigned to the 1st Battalion, A 94th Field
Artillery, 1st Armored Division, in Baumholder, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 03:55 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Seeks Technology For Anti-Terrorism Fight
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2004 * The Defense Department is seeking out technology
suitable for use in combating terrorism, a senior DoD official said here April
8.

In fact, much of the progress in the war on terror has come from technological
developments, Peter F. Verga noted to attendees at the Armed Forces
Communications and Electronics Association luncheon.

Verga, the principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for homeland
defense, explained that DoD invests almost $100 million annually in the
Technical Support Working Group * a department-run forum that gathers
"information on new ideas that may be useful in the war on terrorism."

Some TSWG-sourced ideas, Verga noted, include blast-resistant building designs,
countermeasures against explosives and weapons of mass destruction, personal-
protection equipment, and equipment for military and civilian emergency-
response teams for chemical incidents.

"All of those ideas started and were put through the TSWG process," Verga said.

Verga noted another DoD initiative, the Combating Terrorism Technology Task
Force, was formed within a week after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. That task
force first found suitable technologies to employ for homeland defense and in
the Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts, he said.

Now, he continued, the task force is identifying and accelerating technology --
such as explosives detection devices -- suitable for protection of troop
convoys moving along roads in Iraq.

Verga said he also works closely with the Department of Homeland Security's
undersecretary for science and technology, helping to find technology that can
be used by state and local first responders, such as night-vision and thermal-
imaging devices, information-sharing systems and biometric identification
systems.

"All of those are technologies developed for DoD purposes that are relevant and
have applicability in the homeland security mission," he concluded.

Related Sites:
Department of Homeland Security [http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/]
Combating
Terrorism Technology Task Force [http://www.dtra.mil/news/fact/nw_combat_t_tech.html]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
DoD Ready to Assist in Event
of Homeland Attack [/news/Apr2004/n04122004_200404126.html]

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 03:56 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Iraqis Hold Key to Legitimizing Their Own Security Forces
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2004 * Iraqis, not the U.S. military, will ultimately
solve security problems within their country, the top American general in the
region said today.

"I think we all need to understand that the solution to Iraq's security
problems does not lay with the United States armed forces," Army Gen. John
Abizaid, head of U.S. Central Command, said. "It's with the Iraqis themselves."

Abizaid and Army Lt. Gen. Ricardo S. Sanchez, commander of Combined Joint Task
Force 7, spoke from Baghdad via a video link to reporters in the Pentagon.

Abizaid said it's important to be both patient and innovative in building
institutions for various security forces, including the country's military,
police and civil-defense forces.

The two generals addressed the status of Iraqi security forces following recent
news reports outlining desertions and ineffectiveness. They conceded there have
been failures, but said there have been many successes as well.

"There are many Iraqis that have paid the ultimate sacrifice," Abizaid said.
"And we're extremely proud of the way that many of them have fought."

He said he believes the Iraqi forces will improve once there are solid chains
of command in place. "The truth of the matter is that until we get well-formed
Iraqi chains of command * all the way in the police service, from the minister
of interior to the lowest patrolman on the beat in whatever city it may be, and
the same for the army, from private to minister of defense * that it's going to
be tough to get them to perform at the level we want," Abizaid said.

A key addition will be the involvement of more senior Iraqis. The general said
senior officers in several important positions in the Ministry of Defense, the
Iraqi Joint Staff and field commands will be appointed over the next several
days.

He noted he and Sanchez have been closely involved in vetting and placing these
officers. "And I can tell you the competition for these positions has been
fierce," he added.

Sanchez pointed out American officials have consistently said it would take
time to build legitimate security forces within Iraq. "It's still going to take
us a significant amount of time to ensure that they are properly equipped,
properly trained and credible and capable with their countrymen," he said.

"It takes a long time to take security institutions from zero up to a level of
about 200,000 and expect them to come together and gel the way that they
should," Abizaid added.

Still, Abizaid said he believes the Iraqi forces are on the right track.

"We should not discount the Iraqi security services," he said. "They will
become the bulwark against terrorism and anti-democratic forces of this
country, because that's what the people want them to be."

Biographies:
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
Lt. Gen. Ricardo
S. Sanchez [http://www.cjtf7.com/command-info/senior-leaders.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
2 Soldiers, 7 Contractors
Missing in Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04122004_200404123.html]
Building Iraqi Security Forces
Must Continue, Sanchez Says [/news/Apr2004/n04112004_200404113.html]

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 03:58 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Ready to Assist in Event of Homeland Attack
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2004 * The Defense Department stands ready to assist
authorities at the federal, state and local levels in the event of another
terrorist attack on the homeland, a senior DoD official said here April 8.

In prepared remarks delivered to Armed Forces Communications and Electronics
Association members, Peter F. Verga said the Office of the Assistant Secretary
of Defense for Homeland Defense "is responsible for DoD's support to civil
authorities for domestic incident management," such as during attacks on the
homeland.

Verga, the principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for homeland
defense, noted that another DoD entity, the assistant secretary of defense for
special operations and low-intensity conflict, "is responsible for DoD's
support to the State Department, which has the lead for foreign consequence
management."

In the event of a chemical, biological, nuclear or radiological attack on the
United States, Verga said, the Joint Task Force Civil Support in Norfolk, Va.;
the Joint Task Force Consequence Management East at Fort Gillem, Ga.; or the
Joint Task Force Consequences Management West at Fort Sam Houston, Texas -- all
under U.S. Northern Command -- "would be available to provide command and
control of forces in support of civil authorities."

"We are working to strengthen DoD and civilian capabilities and surge capacity
to address multiple, simultaneous CBRN attacks in the United States," Verga
said.

Another important element defending the homeland involves intelligence and
information sharing, Verga pointed out. To this end, he noted DoD is working
closely with the FBI, CIA and other members of the intelligence community "to
maintain maximum awareness of potential attacks against and emerging threats to
the United States."

For example, DoD is "a full partner" in the Terrorist Threat Integration
Center, Verga said. The TTIC, he noted, is "a multi-agency joint venture"
created in May 2003. It "integrates terrorist-threat related information,
minimizing any seams between analysis of terrorism intelligence collected
overseas and inside the United States, to form a comprehensive threat picture."

Each day, Verga continued, TTIC "coordinates terrorist threat assessments with
partner agencies," including DoD, Department of Homeland Security, FBI, CIA and
State Department.

In a terrorist attack on America, NORTHCOM -* which defends land, air and sea
approaches to the United States -- would also provide support to U.S. civil
authorities, Verga noted.

This, he explained, would include "military support to civilian law enforcement
agencies, military assistance for civil disturbances, and incident management
operations in response" to an attack using weapons of mass destruction.

The U.S. Navy and Coast Guard, he noted, monitor sea approaches to America and
"patrol international waters and our territorial seas."

DoD's role in border security involves providing support, particularly to the
Department of Homeland Security, "when appropriate," Verga said. DoD maintains
quick- and rapid-reaction forces for this purpose, he added, and these Army and
Marine forces would operate under NORTHCOM's command and control.

Verga said DoD maintains "excellent" working relationships across the
Department of Homeland Security. For example, he cited the 64 people assigned
within DHS who provide critical intelligence and communications specialties.

DoD also has an around-the-clock presence in DHS's operations center "with
direct connectivity back to DoD for rapid response."

This year, Verga said, DoD is enhancing its partnership with DHS by
establishing a liaison office within DHS headquarters.

The Defense Department also is developing a "comprehensive" homeland defense
strategy for the 21st century, Verga said. That plan, he noted, will "provide
the framework for pursuing operational capabilities to prepare for tomorrow's
challenges."

Related Sites:
U.S. Northern Command [http://www.northcom.mil/]
Department of Homeland Security [http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/]
State Department [http://www.state.gov/]
Joint Task Force Civil Support [http://www.jtfcs.northcom.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 04:07 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 305-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 12, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Michelle M. Witmer, 20, of New Berlin, Wis., died April 9 in Baghdad, Iraq,
when she became involved in an improvised explosive device and small arms attack.
Witmer was assigned to the Army National Guard’s 32nd Military Police Company,
Milwaukee, Wis.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 04:07 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 306-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 12, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Adolf C. Carballo, 20, of Houston, Texas, died April 10 in Baghdad,
Iraq, when shrapnel struck him. Carballo was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion,
21st Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 04:55 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Egypt's Leader Urges Iraq Power Transfer 'As Soon As Possible'
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2004 * Egypt's senior leader today told President Bush
it's paramount to transfer sovereignty to an Iraqi government "as soon as
possible."

During his visit to Bush's ranch in Crawford, Texas, Egyptian President Hosni
Mubarak praised Egyptian-U.S. relations, noting that he'd had a "constructive,
candid and friendly" talk with the U.S. president "on a wide range of issues."

One of those issues, Mubarak noted during a news conference at the ranch, was
Iraq. "I conveyed to the president our serious concerns about the current state
of affairs" in Iraq, Mubarak told reporters. Egypt, he pointed out, was
especially concerned about humanitarian and security matters stemming from
recent fighting in Fallujah and in the southern portion of the country.

Mubarak said he'd also emphasized to Bush "the importance of restoring Iraq's
sovereignty as soon as possible within a context that preserves its territorial
integrity and unites all Iraqis toward a common future."

The Egyptian president noted he and Bush "agreed to intensify our extensive
cooperation" in fighting global terrorism, to include "finding solutions to the
political and economic problems that represent the underlying causes of
terrorism."

Bush welcomed "my good friend, Hosni, to my home," declaring America and Egypt
"have three decades of solid, beneficial relations behind us." The United
States, Bush pledged, "will continue to work with Egypt and the Arab world in a
spirit of common purpose and mutual respect."

During a question-and-answer-session with reporters, Bush vowed the U.S. and
coalition "will transfer sovereignty" to the Iraqi people, despite "a tough
week because of … lawlessness and gangs that were trying to take the law into
their own hands."

America and its coalition partners, Bush explained, are fending off insurgent
attacks while providing "security for the Iraqi people so that a transition can
take place."

The president emphasized that the United States "is a compassionate country
that cares about the loss of innocent life." However, he added, American troops
in Iraq do have the right to defend themselves against insurgent aggression.

The vast majority of Iraqis, Bush maintained, want a peaceful and free country.
The insurgents constitute "a small percentage of the Iraqi people," Bush said,
and shouldn't be allowed to "decide the fate of everybody."

Related Site:
State Department Background
Notes on Egypt [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5309.htm]

Seoulstriker

04-12-2004, 05:40 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 307-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 12, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Justin W. Johnson, 22, of Rome, Ga., died April 10 in Baghdad,
Iraq, when his patrol vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. Johnson was
assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Cavalry
Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 08:50 AM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Monday Apr. 12, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 299-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 12, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Monday, April 12, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Monday, April 12, 2004

CONTRACTS
-=== ===-
AIR FORCE

BAE Systems, Austin, Texas, is being awarded a $17,175,962 firm fixed
price contract to provide for 13 QF-4 Full-Scale Aerial Targets, and associated
technical support. BAE Systems will perform this effort in Mojave, Calif. Total
funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by July 2006. Solicitation
began March 2004 and negotiations were completed April 2004. The Headquarters Air
Armament Center, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity
(FA8675-04-C-0214).

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp., Savannah, Ga., is being awarded a
$16,161,556 firm fixed price contract to provide for contractor logistics support
through January 2012 in support of the C-37 aircraft at Chievres Air Base,
Belgium. Gulfstream will perform this effort at Chievres Air Base, Belgium. No
funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by January 2012.
Negotiations were completed March 2004. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is
the contracting activity (F33657-00-C-0038, P00045).

Lockheed Martin Corp., Akron, Ohio, is being awarded a $15,535,447
cost-plus fixed-fee contract to provide for the Opticle and Radio Frequency Comined
Link Experiment. This research and development project will develop a mobile Free
Space Optical communication network utilizing low data rate radio frequency. The
locations of performance are Lockheed Martin, 3200 Zanker Road, San Jose, Calif.,
and other locations. At this time, $8,000,000 of the funds has been obligated.
This work will be complete by February 2005. Solicitation began November 2003 and
negotiations were completed April 2004. The Air Force Research Laboratory,
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity
(FA8650-04-C-7108).

McDonnell Douglas Corp., Long Beach, Calif., is being awarded a
$5,903,488 cost-plus fixed-fee contract modification to provide for organic
Operational Flight Program Loading System equipment, Support Equipment Data
Acquisition and Control System equipment, and obsolescence and logistics support
analysis in support of the C-17 aircraft. Total funds have been obligated. This
work will be complete by March 2006. Negotiations were completed March 2004. The
Headquarters Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is
the contracting activity (F33657-01-C-2002, P00129).

ARMY

Weston/Bean Joint Venture, Chester, Pa., was awarded on April 9, 2004,
an $11,800,000 firm-fixed-price contract for Maintenance Dredging of the Miami
River Cut-Thrus one and 48 to the Miami Harbor. Work will be performed in Dade
County, Fla., and is expected to be completed by April 30, 2009. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 108 bids
solicited on Aug. 29, 2003, and five bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity (W912EP-04-C-0021).

Lucent Technologies Inc., McLeansville, N.C., was awarded on April 2,
2004, a $10,972,072 increment as part of a $10,972,072 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract
for the Coherent Communications, Imaging and Targeting Program, Phase II. Work
will be performed in McLeansville, N.C. (1.95 percent), Whippany, N.J. (10.49
percent), Holmdel, N.J. (17.31 percent), Murray Hill, N.J. (49.76 percent), El
Segundo, Calif. (1.14 percent), Triangle Park, N.C. (7.71 percent), Albuquerque,
N.M. (0.48 percent), Stanford, Calif. (1.11 percent), Anaheim, Calif. (6.34
percent), Toronto, Ontario (0.60 percent), Broomfield, Colo. (0.11 percent),
Danbury, Conn. (0.30 percent), Melbourne, Fla. (0.48 percent), Livermore, Calif.
(0.44 percent), Palo Alto, Calif. (0.45 percent), Los Angeles, Calif. (0.44
percent), Tucson, Ariz. (0.40 percent), Seattle, Wash. (0.36 percent), and Vienna,
Va. (0.13 percent), and is expected to be completed by March 2, 2006. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown
number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on April 2, 2003, and six bids were
received. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va., is the
contracting activity (HR0011-04-C-0048).

AM General Corp., Mishawaka, Ind., was awarded on April 9, 2004, a
delivery order amount of $2,714,574 as part of a $23,411,746 firm-fixed-price
contract for Differentials/Axles for the High Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicle. Work
will be performed in Mishawaka, Ind., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31,
2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There
were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Dec. 17, 2003,
and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command,
Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-04-D-0071).

Pangea Group*, Chesterfield, Mo., was awarded on April 9, 2004, a
delivery order amount of $100,000 as part of a $200,000,000 firm-fixed-price
contract for Design and Construction in Support of the Great Lakes and Ohio River
Division Mission. Performance location will be determined with each task order,
and is expected to be completed by April 8, 2009. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 111 bids solicited on Oct. 18,
2003, and 13 bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville,
Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0007).

Diversified Technology Consultants Inc.*, North Haven, Conn., was
awarded on April 9, 2004, a delivery order amount of $100,000 as part of a
$200,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract for Design and Construction in Support of
the Great Lakes and Ohio River Division Mission. Performance location will be
determined with each task order, and is expected to be completed by April 8, 2009.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were
111 bids solicited on Oct. 18, 2003, and 13 bids were received. The U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0008).

Vanguard Contractors Inc., Paducah, Ky., was awarded on April 9, 2004,
a delivery order amount of $100,000 as part of a $200,000,000 firm-fixed-price
contract for Design and Construction in Support of the Great Lakes and Ohio River
Division Mission. Performance location will be determined with each task order,
and is expected to be completed by April 8, 2009. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 111 bids solicited on Oct. 18,
2003, and 13 bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville,
Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0009).

Del-Jen Inc., Rolling Hills Estates, Calif., was awarded on April 9,
2004, a delivery order amount of $100,000 as part of a $200,000,000
firm-fixed-price contract for Design and Construction in Support of the Great Lakes
and Ohio River Division Mission. Performance location will be determined with each
task order, and is expected to be completed by April 8, 2009. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 111 bids solicited on
Oct. 18, 2003, and 13 bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0010).

Mascaro Construction Co., Pittsburgh, Pa., was awarded on April 9,
2004, a delivery order amount of $100,000 as part of a $200,000,000
firm-fixed-price contract for Design and Construction in Support of the Great Lakes
and Ohio River Division Mission. Performance location will be determined with each
task order, and is expected to be completed by April 8, 2009. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 111 bids solicited on
Oct. 18, 2003, and 13 bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0011).

NAVY

RL Associates*, Langhorne, Pa., is being awarded a not-to-exceed
$10,000,000 Phase III, Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Program contract
for Topic N97-006 entitled “Development of a 532 NM Narrowband Optical Filter.”
The contractor will provide an optical filter suitable for use in laser radar
systems near water surface and shore, where current acoustic techniques are
limited. Work will be performed in Langhorne, Pa. and is expected to be completed
in April 2009. Contract funds in the amount of $79,540 will expire at the end of
the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured using SBIR
Program Solicitation under Topic N97-006 and nine offers were received. The Naval
Air Systems Command Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J. is the contracting activity
(N68335-04-D-0011).

Electric Boat, Groton, Conn., is being awarded a $7,700,000
modification to previously awarded cost plus fixed fee contract (N00140-02-C-K009)
for intermediate and depot level overhaul, repair and modernization services for
Naval Submarine Support Facility (NSSF) New London, Conn. Work will be performed
in Groton, Conn., and is expected to be completed by June 2004. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not
competitively procured. The FISC Norfolk Detachment Philadelphia is the
contracting activity (Mod P00021).

*small business

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 08:51 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Remains of U.S. MIAS to be Recovered in North Korea
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 310-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 12, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Remains of U.S. MIAS to be Recovered in North Korea

_ _ The Department of Defense announced that U.S. and North Korean
specialists began preliminary work today in North Korea to prepare to recover the
remains of Americans missing in action from the Korean War.

For the first time since these operations began in 1996, supplies and
equipment were transported across the demilitarized zone to U.S. recovery teams.
This arrangement was made through negotiations led by the Defense POW/Missing
Personnel Office in February. And, for the first time since 1999, U.S. remains,
accompanied by recovery team members, will return across the demilitarized zone
(DMZ) at the end of each operation.

In late 2003, U.S. and North Korean negotiators scheduled five operations for 2004
in Unsan County and near the Chosin Reservoir, both sites of major battles and
heavy losses of U.S. servicemen.

This marks the ninth consecutive year that U.S. teams have operated
inside North Korea, bringing home some remains of the more than 8,100 soldiers
missing in action from the war. Specialists from the Joint POW/Missing Personnel
Command have recovered more than 180 remains since 1996 in 27 separate operations.
This year, the recovery work will be split between the two sites for a schedule
that will extend between April and October. Twenty-eight U.S. team members will
join with their North Korean counterparts for each of these approximately 30-day
operations.

More than 88,000 Americans are missing in action from World War II, the
Korean War, the Cold War, the Vietnam War and Desert Storm.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 08:51 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: U.S. POW/MIA Office Hosts Russian Archivists
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 311-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 12, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

U.S. POW/MIA Office Hosts Russian Archivists

_ _ The Department of Defense announced today that the Defense
POW/Missing Personnel Office will this week host a historic meeting between key
Russian and U.S. archivists examining the issue of American POWs and MIAs at the
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) at 8601 Adelphi Road, College
Park, Md.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for POW/Missing Personnel Affairs
Jerry D. Jennings, invited the Russians in 2003 to discuss technical areas
important to the effort to locate materials in the Russian archives about
unaccounted-for American servicemen. He is also acting American chairman of the
U.S.-Russia Joint Commission on POW/MIAs.

The three-day conference begins Tuesday and will feature presentations
by Jennings as well as by the Archivist of the United States Gov. John W. Carlin.
Additionally, NARA experts in the preservation, handling, storage and release of
historical materials will lead discussions with their Russian counterparts.

A delegation of ten Russians is expected to attend, including Chief of
Archival Services of the General Staff, Col. Sergei A. Ilyenkov, and Col. Vladimir
V. Kozin of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Other Russian attendees will
represent the Ministry of Defense; the Central Archives of the Navy; the Military
Medical Museum and Archives; and the Archives of the Border Guards. U.S.
archivists representing governmental and private collections also are expected to
attend.

The conference will examine issues of declassification of military and
political documents; technical aids to improve the operation of a modern archive;
Korean and Vietnam War documents held in Russian archives; and other issues of
importance to the American effort to account for missing U.S. servicemen.

A small team of U.S. POW/MIA specialists working full time in Moscow
recovers documents from Russian archives and conducts other research across the
country to clarify the fate of Americans still missing from several conflicts, to
include World War II, the Korean and Cold Wars and the Vietnam War.

Media are welcome to attend. Additional information about the schedule
of the archival conference may be found under “Upcoming Events” on the DPMO web
site at: http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo [http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo]

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 08:51 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 309-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 12, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Peter G. Enos, 24, of South Dartmouth, Mass., died April 9 in
Bayji, Iraq, when a rocket-propelled grenade struck his patrol vehicle. Enos was
assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Infantry
Division, in Schweinfurt, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 08:54 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 302-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 13, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Lance Cpl. Phillip E. Frank, 20, of Elk Grove, Ill., died April 8 from
hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 1st
Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton,
Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 08:54 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Myers Meets with Bahraini Leaders During Middle East Trip
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

MANAMA, Bahrain, April 13, 2004 * The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
arrived here today on a long-planned trip to consult with allies in the region.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers said the visit is to "move our military-to-
military relationship along." He said he will discuss matters in Iraq and in
the greater war on terrorism.

Bahrain hosts the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet and has been a major non-NATO ally of
the United States since 2001.

Myers said he "obviously" will discuss Iraq. He said the instability there is
not good for the region, and that all nations in the Persian Gulf understand
that. He said he is not asking for specific capabilities or materials from
Bahrain, but is looking for advice on the way forward.

The chairman will meet with Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al Khalifa, Defense
Minister Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, and his counterpart, Maj. Gen.
Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, chief of staff of the Bahrain Defense Forces.

He said he will discuss Bahrain's continued support to the coalition effort in
Iraq. He said the Gulf States * Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab
Emirates, Qatar and Oman * are concerned that the United States will not see
the situation in Iraq through. "The president on down has made our intentions
clear that the United States will not be pulling out of Iraq (with the mission
undone)," Myers said during a meeting with reporters traveling with him.
"That's not an issue, but it's the kind of thing that others need to hear and
be reassured on."

He will also meet with the 5th Fleet commander, Vice Adm. David C. Nichols Jr.,
and with American embassy officials.

Bahrain has been a close ally for years, an embassy official said. But many in
the oil-rich kingdom are upset with instability in Iraq. More than half of the
population of the kingdom is Shiia Muslim, and they identify with their
brethren in Iraq, the official said.

Biographies:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
Vice Adm. David
C. Nichols Jr. [http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/people/flags/biographies/nicholsdc.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>
Related Sites:
Joint Chiefs of Staff [http://www.dtic.mil/jcs/]
5th Fleet [http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/]
State Department
Background Notes on Bahrain [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/26414.htm]

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 09:34 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Effort in Iraq 'Going to Take Time,' Myers Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

MANAMA, Bahrain, April 13, 2004 * People around the world are going to have to
realize the coalition effort in Iraq is a long-term project, the chairman of
the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here today.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers arrived here today for meetings with Bahraini
leaders. On the flight over, he said the problems in Iraq can be solved, but it
will take time.

"We've been there just a year," Myers said to reporters traveling with him.
"We've got a country that lived for decades under a dictator that ruled by
fear. The thought that you are going to turn that around in a year, or two
years, is not reasonable. It's going to take a lot longer than that."

Myers said the coalition found a country with a dilapidated infrastructure, a
failing economic structure and a political vacuum. On top of those problems, he
added, is the fact that some Iraqis don't want the country to be free and
democratic. "That's what you're seeing now," he said.

He said the coalition is making great progress on all fronts. Electricity
generation is above pre-war levels, Iraq's oil is flowing to market, children
are being educated and the health system is being bulked up. "On any front,
we're making great progress," he said.

Yet there are those who don't want to see Iraq succeed, the chairman said, and
they "want to throw a rock into these gears to stop it from happening."

The prime rock thrower is Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, a Jordanian national affiliated
with al Qaeda. The chairman said Zarqawi would like to foment a civil war in
Iraq. "And he is frustrated, because despite all the attacks on the U.N., the
Red Cross and others, there still is the march towards sovereignty and
democracy in Iraq," he said.

"I don't think a civil war will come from the Iraqi people," Myers said. If
such a war were to happen, he said, it would be the work of "agitators like
Zarqawi, who see this as a fundamental fight for his views."

Myers said the path to a free, democratic Iraq will be bumpy. The key, he said,
is to ensure all in the country * including those favored by Saddam Hussein *
have a stake in the new Iraq that is emerging.

The chairman said the coalition will stick to the strategy of moving security
missions to Iraqi forces. He said the recent fighting showed the Iraqi security
forces were "uneven," but added that elements of the Iraqi army, the Iraqi
Civil Defense Corps and the Iraqi police that have done well.

"There are other elements that have not done as well," he said. "I don't think
it speaks that they don't want to be part of a free Iraq. I think it speaks to
the other issue, which is making sure they have clear guidance from Iraqis on
what it is they are supposed to be about."

Myers said the Iraqi forces need to have guidance and orders from an Iraqi
political leadership. "We haven't completed that chain of command yet," he
said. "Iraqis have to have their own chain of command to know they are moving
forward and working for a greater Iraq."

Myers said the coalition also must beef up training for Iraqi security forces
and get them the right equipment. "There is no indication that the Iraqis are
not willing to fight and die for a better Iraq. They have," he said.

The chairman said the disturbances caused by Muqtada al-Sadr have worked
against the radical Shiia cleric. "This doesn't have any of the trappings of a
popular uprising," Myers said. "(Sadr's) actions have further marginalized him.
The Shiia are not homogeneous, and his following was not large to begin with,
and there is nothing at this point to point to an uprising in the south."

The chairman said the coalition took advantage of the ongoing troop rotation
from the United States to place units where they will do the most good. Some 1st
Armored Division units, for example, moved to quell the disturbances in the
south. He said the United States now has 134,000 troops in Iraq. Some troops
due to go home will stay in Iraq longer, the chairman said, adding that defense
leaders are working through this and an announcement will be made at the
Pentagon soon.

He said about 40,000 U.S. troops are still in Iraq from Operation Iraqi Freedom
1. Not all will be held, he said. The 1st Cavalry Division officially will
relieve and assume authority from the 1st Armored Division on April 15, as
scheduled, he said.

The chairman said the difficulties in Iraq will not affect the U.S. Army's
effort to reconfigure itself. "In terms of being able to respond to other major
crises in the world, that won't change either. We have that capability," he
said. "Obviously we've got ground forces that are really busy now, and what we
have to look to is the next rotation to Iraq and Afghanistan."

He said he believes the troops affected by the decision understand that "the
security situation has changed, and we have to make adjustments."

Biography:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Myers Meets with Bahraini
Leaders During Middle East Trip [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404131.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
State Department
Background Notes on Bahrain [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/26414.htm]
1st Cavalry
Division [http://pao.hood.army.mil/1stcavdiv/history/history.htm]
1st Armored Division [http://www.1ad.army.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 12:35 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualties
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 312-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 13, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who
were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Cpl. Daniel R. Amaya, 22, of Odessa, Texas.

Lance Cpl. Torrey L. Gray, 19, of Patoka, Ill.

Both Marines died April 11 from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
They were assigned to 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I
Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine Corps
Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms Public Affairs Office at (760) 830-5472.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 01:59 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Myers Explains U.S. Position in Iraq to Arab Audience
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

MANAMA, Bahrain, April 13, 2004 * Events in Iraq dominated the chairman of the
Joint Chiefs of Staff's news conference following meetings with Bahraini
leaders here.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers spoke to a group of mostly Arab journalists
following meetings with the king of Bahrain, the defense minister and the chief
of staff of the Bahraini Defense Force.

American embassy officials said that Iraqi civilian casualties are a concern to
many people in this Persian Gulf nation. Their concern was sparked, in part, by
a front-page newspaper picture of a dog eating from a dead body in Fallujah.

Myers said the United States has taken great care since Operation Iraqi Freedom
began to minimize civilian casualties. "We have been very careful in how we
have used military power to achieve the ends we have achieved in Iraq," he
said. "That continues today. You have seen in numerous accounts that not only
U.S., but other coalition forces, will often put themselves in harm's way to
avoid causing innocent civilians harm. That continues today."

He said the ceasefire in Fallujah is a case in point. The U.S. Marines there
are not conducting offensive operations. "The offensive operations, it turns
out, are being conducted by those people in Fallujah who … don't want a free
and prosperous Iraq," he said.

Those elements are firing on Marines from many areas normally off-limits for
military operations, including mosques and schools. If an enemy uses a
protected site such as a mosque as a fighting point, it loses its protected
status, Myers said. "But in the U.S. view, that's not enough," said he added.
"Even though it may have lost its protected status, we still consider it a very
serious matter if we're going to attack a protected facility."

The chairman said he doesn't think anyone knows the number of casualties in
Fallujah. "Certainly any loss of life, whether it's coalition forces or
innocent civilians, no one likes that," he said. "We go to great lengths to
spare lives. What the coalition wants to accomplish in Iraq is not helped if
the coalition is reckless, and I guarantee we are not reckless. We are as
careful as can be, given the security challenges."

Myers also spoke about charges that Syria and Iran are trying to influence
Iraqis as the June 30 Iraqi sovereignty date approaches. Syria still sponsors
terrorist groups, and many of the foreign fighters who find their way to Iraq
do so through Syria. "We know Iran is also attempting to influence events
inside Iraq," he said. "If the Iraqi people are going to have a fair chance * a
decent chance * to decide their own future, it needs to be free of outside
influences."

Myers said that U.S. Central Command chief Army Gen. John Abizaid has asked for
the capabilities brought by two more brigades of U.S. soldiers. He expects an
answer to that request soon. But the long-term goal remains not U.S. troops,
but Iraqis defending their own country. "Our task is to ensure that Iraqi
security forces * the Iraqi police, the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps, the border
guards, the Iraqi army and the Iraqi Infrastructure Protection Force * … be
appropriately equipped, trained and manned for the duties that we ask them to
do," he said. "We're not there yet in terms of training and equipping."

But, he said, security is only one pillar that needs to be put in place. An
economic pillar * helped by $18.4 billion appropriated by the U.S. Congress *
is important to the country, as is the governance pillar * still on track for
turnover of sovereignty on June 30, he said. The change from a dictatorship to
a free Iraq is not going to happen over one year or two years, the chairman
said.

Myers said the U.S. military relationship with Bahrain is key to stability in
the region. He used his visit to thank Bahrain for its support over 60 years
and specifically to thank leaders for their support in the global war on
terrorism. "The United States is committed to maintaining a strategic
partnership with Bahrain, a major non-NATO ally, so we can assure the stability
of Bahrain but also the stability of the Middle East," he said.

The U.S. Navy has had some presence in Bahrain since just after World War II.
Myers said he doesn't know what the U.S. "footprint" will look like in the
future. "I don't have a good crystal ball," he said, "but a couple of
fundamentals apply. We think our presence in the Gulf has a stabilizing
influence, and so there will probably be some form of presence. I can't tell
you what that presence will be, but I can tell you we won't be anywhere where
we are not wanted."

Biographies:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Joint Chiefs of Staff [http://www.dtic.mil/jcs/]
State Department
Background Notes on Bahrain [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/26414.htm]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Effort in Iraq 'Going to Take
Time,' Myers Says [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404132.html]
Myers Meets with Bahraini
Leaders During Middle East Trip [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404131.html]

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 02:55 PM

From: DoD Advisories <dladvisories_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Corrects Civilian Casualty Announcement
To: DODADVISORIES-L@DTIC.MIL

PRESS ADVISORY from the United States Department of Defense

No. 019-04
PRESS ADVISORY Apr 13, 2004

Tuesday, April 13, 2004

On April 5, the Department of Defense incorrectly identified Emad Mikha,
44, of Sterling Heights, Mich., who died April 3, in Muqdadiyah, Iraq, as a
Department of the Army civilian employee.
http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/2004/nr20040405-1131.html. Subsequent
investigation determined that Mikha was a contractor employee.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 03:02 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualties
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 313-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 13, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died April 11 in Baghdad, Iraq when their
helicopter was shot down. Both soldiers were assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion,
227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Killed were:

Chief Warrant Officer Wesley C. Fortenberry, 38, of Woodville, Texas.

Chief Warrant Officer Lawrence S. Colton, 32, of Oklahoma City, Okla.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 03:04 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Colorado Guard Forms Alliance With Kingdom of Jordan
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Master Sgt. Bob Haskell
Special to American Forces Press Service

ARLINGTON, Va., April 13, 2004 * A new, landmark alliance between the Kingdom
of Jordan and the Colorado National Guard may be one more step toward bringing
peace and stability to the Middle East.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404134a.jpg] available.
</font></table>

That is what Prince Feisal Ibn al-Hussein, a member of Jordan's royal family
and commander of the Royal Jordanian Air Force, said he hoped for while
visiting the National Guard Bureau's joint headquarters April 1 to endorse the
new State Partnership Program between his country and the Centennial State.

It is the first time the National Guard's 11-year-old State Partnership Program
has formed an alliance with a Middle Eastern country to exchange military,
civil and cultural ideas.

The Jordan-Colorado partnership is the 45th affiliation between states and
countries since January 1993. Previous partnerships have been forged with
Eastern European nations that were former members of the Warsaw Pact, 13
countries in Latin America and the Philippines.

The National Guard's State Partnership Program aligns states with nations
around the world to help them develop modern military forces, learn the concept
of civilian control of the military, and establish civil-military relationships
that benefit the public during civil emergencies.

"Our part of the world is quite often misunderstood. Understanding can't but
help (lead to) greater stability, greater security and a greater opportunity
for peace," said Feisal following a breakfast meeting with Lt. Gen. Daniel
James III, director of the Air National Guard, and Air Guard Maj. Gen. Mason
Whitney, Colorado's adjutant general.

"Although we come from different cultures, we all face very, very similar
challenges in life. Being able to work together, to be able to address issues
together and understand each other is to the benefit of everybody," said
Feisal, the younger brother of Jordan's King Abdullah II.
"You don't lose out from being able to understand each other and work
together," added Feisal, a two-star general, who has flown military helicopters
and jet fighter planes.

He wore a lapel pin of the U.S. and Jordanian flags on his gray suit to signify
his support for the partnership.

Feisal, 40, has learned much about the American culture, because he was
educated at prep schools in Massachusetts and Washington, D.C., and earned an
electronic engineering degree from Brown University in Rhode Island in 1985.

Jordan asked to participate in the State Partnership Program last December and
asked to be affiliated with Colorado.

Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, chief of the National Guard Bureau, recommended
that partnership to the commander of the U.S. Central Command, Gen. John
Abizaid, on March 23. Central Command is expected to endorse Blum's
recommendation.

"We are building on a friendship that already exists between our two countries,
(and) between Jordan and Colorado," James observed.

Feisal agreed. "We already had a good relationship with Colorado from previous
exercises," he said. "When we looked at the Guard assets in Colorado, (we saw)
there is actually a very, very good fit between what we have in Jordan, whether
it is in the air force and army, and what there is available in Colorado."

The partnership will encompass civil defense and disaster response issues as
well as the more traditional military relationships, predicted Feisal. "I think
there is a lot that both sides can learn," he said.

"Our strategic interests in the Middle East are enormous, and we have seen by
virtue of the State Partnership Program that we can open a lot of doors in
terms of common interests," Whitney observed. "We feel it's a great learning
opportunity for our United States military, not only the Colorado National
Guard, to be involved in relationships with Middle Eastern cultures similar to
Jordan."

Colorado, he pointed out, has maintained a partnership with Slovenia since
1993.

"We feel that has been a great success for Slovenia and for the Colorado
National Guard. We're looking forward to having that similar success with
Jordan," Whitney said.

Slovenia was admitted to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization with six other
countries on March 29, three days before Whitney met Feisal to discuss the new
partnership between Jordan and Colorado.

"We fly the F-16 and Jordan flies the F-16. We feel that our Air National Guard
has similar interests with similar missions," Whitney added. "We have special
forces in the Army National Guard. We have aviation in the Army National Guard.
Jordan also has those missions within their military organizations. We feel
there there's going to be a great opportunity to exchange information."

Jordan has already asked that two of its Army helicopter pilots train at the
Colorado Army Guard's High Altitude Army Aviation Training Site, the only one
like it in the world, at Eagle County Airport, Whitney said.

Jordan is also familiar with the Air National Guard, because of its exchanges
with the 162nd Fighter Wing in Tucson, Ariz.

Eight Jordanian pilots were trained to fly F-16s in Tucson in 1997 and about 50
Jordanian troops received maintenance training there in 1998. Pilots in the
162nd delivered the first F-16s that Jordan purchased from the United States to
the Middle East nation in January 2003.

Jordan signed a peace treaty with Israel in 1994 and is now considered to be
one of the countries promoting peace and stability in that part of the world.

Prince Feisal said he hopes that participating in the State Partnership Program
will help.

"I wish that this would be the solution to the Arab-Israeli problem and to all
of our problems in the Middle East," he said. "In a small way, maybe it can
help. We will not know until we try it."

(Army Master Sgt. Bob Haskell is assigned to the National Guard Bureau.)

Biographies:
Gen John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum [http://www.ngb.army.mil/chief/bio.asp]
Lt. Gen. Daniel James
III [http://www.af.mil/bios/bio.asp?bioID=5929]
Maj. Gen. Mason C.
Whitney [http://www.cobuck.ang.af.mil/ourleaders.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Colorado Army National Guard [http://www.coloradoguard.com/]
Colorado Air National Guard [http://www.cobuck.ang.af.mil/]
Air National Guard [http://www.ang.af.mil/]
National Guard Bureau [http://www.ngb.army.mil/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
State Department Background
Notes on Jordan [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3464.htm]

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 04:26 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Fallujah Stable, 'Robust' Manhunt for Zarqawi Under Way
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 13, 2004 -- The security situation in Fallujah, Iraq, remains
stable, and coalition forces there are engaged in a "robust hunt" for al Qaeda
leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, believed to be in or near the city, coalition
officials said today.

"We believe right now Fallujah to be the hotbed for foreign fighters who are in
Iraq, in which we include Zarqawi," senior coalition spokesman Dan Senor told
reporters in Baghdad today. He would not provide details on how the manhunt is
being pursued.

Zarqawi, a Jordanian national, has a $10 million bounty on his head. He is a
convicted terrorist, and has claimed responsibility for numerous acts of
terrorism in Iraq. He is believed to be the author of an intercepted letter
intended for the highest levels of al Qaeda leadership. The letter provides a
blueprint for inciting civil war and promulgating disorder in Iraq to derail
progress toward Iraqi sovereignty.

Marines captured two known terrorists and three individuals suspected of
terrorist activity, said Combined Joint Task Force 7 news release today. All
were captured in a coordinated raid near Kharma, a small town northeast of
Fallujah. Marines recovered four AK-47 rifles, two shotguns and three other
small arms in the seizure, along with four AK-47 magazines and 3,000 rounds.

In other action, Marines near Kharma came under intense fire from about 100
enemy combatants located in buildings on the outskirts of town, according to
the release. The Marines maneuvered, returned fire and called artillery and
close-air support to destroy the enemy.

Also, Marines in the western reaches of Anbar province, near the Syrian border,
discovered two sets of improvised explosive devices. One set was a series of
four IEDs buried in dirt mounds along a road; the other was constructed of two
155 mm artillery rounds. Engineers and explosive ordinance disposal technicians
cleared both sets, with no explosions or casualties.

A 1st Infantry Division soldier was killed and another soldier and civilian
contractor were wounded in an improvised explosive device attack on their
convoy south of Baghdad today, another CJTF 7 release said today. The wounded
were evacuated to a military medical facility near Najaf and were reported to
in stable condition. Their names are being withheld until their families are
notified.

Despite the latest casualty, Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt said violence in most
cities throughout Iraq has quieted, and the area of operations for coalition
forces remains stable. Kimmitt is deputy operations director for CJTF 7.

Kimmitt provided details of more operations and events in Iraq:

In the north, government buildings and infrastructure are secure, and facility
protection service and Iraqi security forces are maintaining order. And the
situation remains stable in Mosul after municipal leaders made televised
addresses to discuss the importance of working with Iraqi security forces and
maintaining order.

A coalition base in the city was attacked April 11 with indirect fire, but
there were no casualties or damage to equipment.

In Tall Afar, the Iraqi armed forces base camp was attacked by indirect fire
April 10, but no casualties were reported.

The north-central zone of operations, where coalition forces remain on the
offensive, has seen a decrease in anti-coalition attacks over the past week.
However, Kimmitt said, coalition military leaders expect an increase in anti-
coalition activity, with demonstrations in a number of cities planned.

Five attacks were reported in Tikrit, and two more in Tuz. An improvised
explosive device attack April 12 wounded two coalition soldiers. Three more
attacks were reported in Samara, and four in Baqubah.

In Baghdad, the 1st Calvary Division is moving against radical Shiite cleric
Muqtada al-Sadr's militia and other extremist forces, Kimmitt said. During
intelligence-based raids overnight, the division captured 16 suspects. Today,
coalition forces detained 29 more suspects and confiscated numerous arms and
ammunition.

Kimmitt said Hazim al-Araji, a spokesman for Sadr, was detained today for
questioning and later released. After questioning, Araji was determined to have
"no direct involvement in violent acts in Iraq, and is not viewed as an
imminent threat to security," he said. "He was released at 5:50 p.m. today."

A CJTF 7 news release reported that 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment,
soldiers discovered 45 150-pound bombs near Kirkuk today. The site was secured
and an explosive ordnance disposal team was sent to assess the cache.

Senor said several individuals have approached coalition officials seeking a
peaceful resolution to the issue of Sadr's militia; however, he added the
coalition's position is very clear.

"We respect and appreciate their good intentions; we too want to minimize the
bloodshed. But we have a few principles that are very clear: The rule of law
must prevail in Iraq. There is no role for illegal militias and illegal mobs
and mob violence. There is no role for individual organizations that take
control of government properties," Senor said.

In the Anbar province, Marine forces continue offensive operations, except in
Fallujah, where a fragile cease-fire is in effect.

Kimmitt said that earlier this morning in the city, a helicopter was forced to
make an emergency landing due to ground fire. "The attack resulted in three
wounded, and a quick-reaction force secured the crew." Kimmitt said the
helicopter was destroyed to prevent it from falling into enemy hands.

In Ramadi and the central-south zone of operations, the situation is relatively
stable, and Kimmitt voiced relief that there have been no attacks in Karbala,
where millions of religious pilgrims came for the celebration of al-Arbaeen.

Security also is improving in the city of Kut, where there has been no
resistance against coalition forces in the city, and the coalition force there
has had freedom of movement, Kimmitt said. The deputy CPA administrator and 16
staff members returned to their offices there, he added, and are expected to
be fully operational in the near future.

He said intelligence raids in the city led to the arrest of six suspects.
Ukrainian soldiers, meanwhile, have "re-assumed responsibility" for two
bridges.

Kimmitt also reported that the cities of Diwaniyah and Najaf are stable,
although anti-coalition forces continue to conduct harassing attacks on
coalition base camps at night.

In addition, the Multinational Division Southeast too is calm. Kimmitt said
only one attack on coalition forces took place over the past 24 hours, and
there were no attacks in Amarah, Basra, Nasiriyah and Samawa during that same
period. A British Warrior fighting vehicle was engaged by what was believed to
be a rocket-propelled grenade followed by small-arms fire. There were no
casualties in either attack.

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
Text
of Intercepted Zarqawi Letter [http://www.iraqcoalition.org/transcripts/20040212_zarqawi_full.html]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Effort in Iraq 'Going to Take
Time,' Myers Says [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404132.html]
Coalition Enhances Reward
Program in Hunt for Enemies [/news/Feb2004/n02172004_200402171.html]
Bomb Kills 2 Soldiers;
Coalition Campaign Targets Zarqawi [/news/Feb2004/n02122004_200402122.html]
Coalition Releases Letter
Meant for al Qaeda [/news/Feb2004/n02112004_200402113.html]

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 04:30 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Agencies Work Together to Find Hostages in Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 13, 2004 -- Coalition officials said today the whereabouts of
as many as 40 hostages in Iraq from 12 countries are unknown.

Some countries are urging their citizens not to go to Iraq or to leave the
country, after several aid workers, contractors and coalition soldiers have
gone missing.

Senior coalition spokesman Dan Senor confirmed at a Baghdad news conference
that the FBI is working with coalition and Iraqi security forces to seek out
the "hostages and their takers," and that a number of other law enforcement
agencies from the international community are involved with the investigation.
He said the coalition will not negotiate with terrorists and kidnappers. "It is
in everybody's interest that the hostages are released as expeditiously as
possible," he added.

Meanwhile, Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt told reporters that every country has
to make a determination regarding security when it comes to ongoing operations
in Iraq. Kimmitt is deputy operations director for Combined Joint Task Force 7.

"We still have some tough fighting ahead of us," he said. "We will continue to
work closely with our Iraqi security forces to bring safety and security to
this country. But that has got to be a sovereign decision of the nation and an
individual decision made by each person. We can't declare at this point that it
is as safe as we want it to be, but can declare that we will continue to work
to reduce the amount of violence in this country."

Kimmitt said more progress needs to be made to be made with regard to the Iraqi
army, police and security forces, many of whom reportedly fled or refused to
participate during recent fighting against insurgents. But he added that many
Iraqi security forces have performed admirably. "Before we suggest that all the
forces just walked away from the fight, in fact there had been numerous forces
that, when mustered, went to where they needed to be and performed
brilliantly," he said.

Kimmitt said that Iraqi police in many towns have come back to man their
stations.

"In truth, there were a number of troops, there were a number of police, that
didn't stand up when their country called," he said. "We are going to take a
hard look at where we are on the development of the Iraqi security forces, and
we're going to redouble our efforts so that our eventual goal, which is an
Iraqi security apparatus capable of defending itself and public security, is
met," he said.

He said it will take time to train and equip the Iraqi security forces to meet
that goal, and that's why coalition forces will continue to work alongside
Iraqi security forces after the new Iraqi government assumes sovereignty June
30.

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 05:46 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 315-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 13, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Gregory R. Goodrich, 37, of Bartonville, Ill., died April 9 in Iraq
when his convoy came under attack by individuals using rocket-propelled grenades
and small arms fire. Goodrich was assigned to the Army Reserve’s 724th
Transportation Company, Bartonville, Ill.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 05:56 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 316-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 13, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Nathan P. Brown, 21, of South Glens Falls, N.Y., died April 11 in
Samarra, Iraq, when his patrol was ambushed. Brown was assigned to the Army
National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry, 1st Armored Division, Glens Falls,
N.Y.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 06:00 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 317-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 13, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Staff Sgt. Toby W. Mallet, 26, of Kaplan, La., died April 9 in Baghdad,
Iraq, when a rocket-propelled grenade struck his patrol vehicle. Mallet was
assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Infantry
Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 06:41 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Tuesday Apr. 13, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 314-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 13, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Tuesday, April 13, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Tuesday, April 13, 2004

CONTRACTS

NAVY

TITAN Corp., Mount Laurel, N.J.; RBC Inc., Alexandria, Va.; Sabre Systems Inc.*,
Warminster, Pa.; Navmar Applied Sciences Corp.*, Warminster, Pa.; and BAE Systems
Applied Technologies Inc.*, Rockville, Md. are each being awarded an
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract under a multiple award for the
development of sensor systems and equipment. Tasks performed under the contracts
will include planning, coordination, technology development, systems definition,
systems acquisition, and product support for manned and unmanned platform avionics
and sensors in support of the Naval Air Systems Command’s Avionics Department.
TITAN Corp., ceiling is $103,938,470; RBC Inc., ceiling is $88,980,798; Sabre
Systems Inc., ceiling is $82,806,727; Navmar Applied Sciences Corp., ceiling is
$86,759,486 and BAE Systems Applied Technologies Inc., ceiling is $82,077,846. All
companies will have the opportunity to bid on each individual task order. Places
and percentages of work will be determined based on the successful offeror for each
individual task order issued. The five-year ordering period expires in April
2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of is the contracting activity
(N00421-04-D-0080, N00421-04-D-0081, N00421-04-D-0082, the current fiscal year.
The Naval Air Systems Command Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md.
N00421-04-D-0083 and N00421-04-D-0084, respectively).

AIR FORCE

United Technologies Corp., East Hartford, Conn., is being awarded a $9,894,000 firm
fixed price contract to provide for 291 high-pressure turbine cases applicable to
the F100 engines on the F-15 and F-16 aircraft. At this time, $4,947,000 of the
funds has been obligated. This work will be complete by September 2006.
Solicitation began March 2004 and negotiations were completed April 2004. The
Headquarters Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., is
the contracting activity (F34601-01-G-0006-0749).

Seoulstriker

04-13-2004, 07:52 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 318-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 13, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Allen J. Vandayburg, 20, of Mansfield, Ohio, died Apr. 9, in Barez, Iraq when
a rocket-propelled grenade struck his vehicle. Vandayburg was assigned to the 2nd
Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Vilseck, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 10:12 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Despite 'Tough' Period, U.S. Won't Waver in Iraq, Bush Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2004 -- The United States will continue in its commitment to an
independent, free and secure Iraq, and the United States "must not waver" despite "a
tough, tough period," President Bush said at an April 13 news conference.

The president stood before reporters in the East Room of the White House to make his
administration's case for standing firm in Iraq, even with sporadic violence continuing
and the June 30 transfer of power to an interim Iraqi government two months away.

Despite the recent increase in violence and casualties, Bush said the United States will
not retreat from its mission.

"Weeks such as we've had in Iraq make some doubt whether or not we're making progress,"
the president said, "but we are making progress. Bush offered military members
assurances of the nation's commitment, and he emphasized the importance of the mission
in remarks aimed at their families. "We'll stay the course and complete the job, and
you'll have what you need," he said to forces in Iraq. "And my message to the loved ones
who are worried about their sons, daughters, husbands and wives is your loved one is
performing a noble service for the cause of freedom and peace."

The president placed blame for violence in Iraq on three groups: remnants of Saddam
Hussein's regime, Islamic militants, and terrorists from other countries.

He said that although these instigators of violence come from different factions, they
share common goals. "They want to run us out of Iraq and destroy the democratic hopes of
the Iraqi people," he said.

Calling the violence in Iraq a "power grab" by extreme and ruthless elements, Bush
sought to dispel the notion that the recent violence reflects the will of the Iraqi
people. "It's not a civil war. It's not a popular uprising," he explained. "Most of Iraq
is relatively stable. Most Iraqis by far reject violence and oppose dictatorship."

Bush specifically cited radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr as one of those
responsible for inciting riots and attacks against coalition forces. Sadr has assembled
supporters into an illegal militia and publicly supported the terrorist groups Hamas and
Hezbollah, the president said. He also accused Sadr of violence and intimidation against
Iraqi Shiia. Iraqi authorities have indicted the cleric for the murder of a prominent
Shiia cleric, Bush noted.

"Iraq will either be a peaceful, democratic country or it will again be a source of
violence, a haven for (terrorists), and a threat to America and to the world."

The president noted the violence in Iraq has a familiar ideology.

"The terrorist who takes hostages or plants a roadside bomb near Baghdad is serving the
same ideology of murder that kills innocent people on trains in Madrid, and murders
children on buses in Jerusalem, and blows up a nightclub in Bali, and cuts the throat of
a young reporter for being a Jew," the president said.

"We've seen the same ideology of murder in the killing of 241 Marines in Beirut," he
continued, "the first attack on the World Trade Center, and the destruction of two
embassies in Africa; in the attack on the USS Cole, and in the merciless horror
inflicted upon thousands of innocent men and women and children on Sept. 11, 2001."

Though terrorist acts often have religious reasons as the professed motive of the
perpetrators, Bush said that's not really the case. "None of these acts is the work of a
religion," he said. "All are the work of a fanatical political ideology."

Meanwhile, Bush said his administration is reviewing the needs of troops on the ground,
and he promised to send military commanders all the troops and resources they say they
need.

Bush said Army Gen. John Abizaid, commander of U.S. Central Command, is "clearly
indicating" that he may want more troops. "It's coming up through the chain of command,
and if that's what he wants, that's what he gets," the president said.

Some 135,000 U.S. troops are in Iraq, Bush said, and he said the U.S. military presence
there will continue "as long as necessary, and not one day more."

The president the nation's commitment to the June 30 transfer of sovereignty to the
Iraqi people, and said a delay would send the wrong message to the Iraqi people and to
the world about the value of an American promise. "We have set a deadline of June 30.
It is important that we meet that deadline," he said. "Iraqis do not support an
indefinite occupation, and neither does America." But sovereignty involves more than a
"date and a ceremony," Bush added. "It requires Iraqis to assume responsibility for
their own future."

The president said according to a schedule already approved by the Iraqi Governing
Council, Iraq will hold elections for a national assembly no later than next January.
That assembly will then draft a new permanent constitution, which will be presented to
the Iraqi people in a national referendum held in October of next year.

Iraqis then elect a permanent government by Dec. 15, 2005. That vote, he said, will mark
the completion of Iraq's transition from "dictatorship to freedom."

In the meantime, he said, other nations and international institutions are stepping up
to their responsibilities in building a free and secure Iraq. The coalition is working
closely with United Nations envoy Lakhdar Brahimi and with Iraqis to determine the exact
form of the government that will take charge of the country June 30.

A United Nations election assistance team headed by Carina Perelli is in Iraq developing
plans for next January's election, Bush noted. NATO is supporting the Polish-led
multinational division, and 17 of the alliance's 26 member nations have forces in Iraq.

The president listed several reasons why he believes success in Iraq is vital to the
United States.

He pointed out that a free Iraq will give 25 million Iraqis the to right to live in
freedom and will stand as an example to reformers across the Middle East. He also said
that a free Iraq will show that America is on the side of Muslims who wish to live in
peace.

But just as important, he said, a free Iraq will confirm to the world "America's word,
once given, can be relied upon even in the toughest times."

Victory on the Iraqi front is key to further victories in the global war on terror and
therefore to U.S. security, the president said. "Above all, the defeat of violence and
terror in Iraq is vital to the defeat of violence and terror elsewhere, and vital,
therefore, to the safety of the American people," he said. "Now is the time and Iraq is
the place in which the enemies of the civilized world are testing the will of the
civilized world. We must not waver."

On Easter Sunday, the president said, he visited wounded soldiers hospitalized at Fort
Hood, Texas, presenting the Purple Heart to some of them, and thanking them on behalf of
all Americans. Other men and women, he added, have paid an even greater cost. The nation
honors those killed and prays their families will find "God's comfort in the midst of
their grief," the president said.

He promised the families of those who have died in Iraq that "we will finish the work of
the fallen. This government will do all that is necessary to assure success of their
historic mission."

Related Site:
Transcript of
President Bush's News Conference, April 13, 2004 [http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/04/20040413-20.html]

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 10:12 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: National Guard and Reserve Mobilized as of April 14, 2004
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 319-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 14, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

National Guard and Reserve Mobilized as of April 14, 2004

This week all the services reported a decrease with the exception of the
Coast Guard who remain unchanged in support of the partial mobilization. The net
collective result is 1,728 less reservists on active duty than last week.

At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while
demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or
decrease. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial
mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 150,289; Naval Reserve
2,654; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 13,035; Marine Corps Reserve,
5,086; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 1,586. This brings the total National Guard
and Reserve on active duty to 172,650 including both units and individual
augmentees.

A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve who are currently on active
duty can be found at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Apr2004/d20040414ngr.pdf.

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 10:38 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: More Weapons Found, Seized in Afghanistan
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2004 * Coalition forces in Afghanistan have found and
seized more weapons, officials said at a news conference today in the Afghan
capital of Kabul.

Two PMN land mines, fuses and assorted mortar, rifle and tank rounds were found
near Ghazni April 13. The ordnance was destroyed in place and the cave in which
it was stored was collapsed, officials said. North of Khowst the same day,
coalition forces found 680 12.7 mm rounds, a Chinese-type 69-1 rocket-propelled
grenade, six Chinese 82 mm mortars, 27 Chinese-type 52 75 mm rounds, a 107 mm
Type 63-2 rocket, an Italian TC-6 anti-tank mine and 200 Yugo UTM 68P1 fuses.

U.S. forces recovered weapons April 12 near the 14th Afghan Militia Forces
weapons depot. Among the items found were several 57 mm and 76 mm anti-tank
guns, two M1938 122 mm guns, a D30 122 mm gun, a BM12 107 mm rocket launcher, a
ZPU 14.5 mm anti-aircraft artillery gun and a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun.

A ceremony marking the transfer of authority from the 10th Mountain Division to
the 25th Infantry Division is scheduled at Bagram Air Field April 15, officials
said.

At the news conference, the coalition struck down "erroneous reports" that two
unmanned aerial vehicles crashed April 11, a block away from an inauguration
ceremony for a new courthouse in Gardez.

"It was a single UAV," a spokesman said. "It landed after the ceremony, and
afterwards, controllers disassembled it for transport ease."

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
10th Mountain
Division [http://www.drum.army.mil/Drum_Command.htm]
25th Infantry Division [http://www.25idl.army.mil/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Coalition in Afghanistan
Seizes Weapons [/news/Apr2004/n04102004_200404102.html]

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 01:09 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Anbar Fighting, Roadside Bomb Near Baghdad Claim American Lives
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2004 -- Four Marines assigned to the 1st Marine
Expeditionary Force died in recent fighting in Iraq's Anbar province, and a
roadside bomb south of Baghdad claimed the life of a 1st Infantry Division
soldier.

A Combined Joint Task Force 7 news release reported today that two of the
Marines were killed by enemy action April 12, and two others April 13 while
conducting security and stability operations.

The 1st Infantry Division soldier was killed and another was wounded April 13
in an improvised explosive device attack on their convoy, U.S. Central Command
officials announced in a news release. The wounded soldier was taken to a
military medical facility near Najaf and was reported to be in stable
condition.

The names of the Marines and soldiers are being withheld until their families
are notified.

A Combined Joint Task Force 7 news release reported today that soldiers from
the 1st Infantry Division's 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, confiscated a
cache of weapons after stopping a vehicle at a traffic control point near
Tikrit. A search of the vehicle yielded 11 60 mm mortars, 16 fuses and 25
mortar charges. A military explosive ordnance disposal team disposed of the
munitions. The driver of the vehicle was taken to a coalition detention
facility for questioning.

Task Force Danger soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, killed one
assailant during a small-arms fire attack near Riyadh April 13, another CJTF 7
news release reported. The soldiers were conducting a route clearance mission
at the time of the attack. After the attack, they searched a nearby building
and confiscated two AK-47 assault rifles.

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Infantry Division [http://www.1id.army.mil/]
1st Battalion, 18th Infantry
Regiment [http://www.schweinfurt.army.mil/118/]
25th Infantry Division [http://www.25idl.army.mil/]
2nd Brigade, 25th
Infantry Division [http://www.25idl.army.mil/unit_frame.asp?unit_id=201]

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 01:34 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Officer's Retirement to be Coast Guard Milestone
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Rudi Williams
American Force Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2004 * When Lt. Cmdr. Rhonda Fleming-Makell, 41, ends her
terminal leave June 30, she will step into American history books as the first
African-American woman to retire as a commissioned officer in the Coast Guard's
214-year history.

<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="right" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> <TD align="left">high-
resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404144a.jpg] available. </font></table>

Tracing its birth back to Aug. 4, 1790, the Coast Guard took 128 years to accept
its first women in uniform and another 27 years to accept its first African
American women. Fifty-nine years after that, the first African-American woman is
retiring from the Coast Guard as a commissioned officer.

In 1918, twin sisters Genevieve and Lucille Baker of the Naval Coastal Defense
Reserve became the first uniformed women to serve in the Coast Guard. After the
Bakers were discharged, except for one lighthouse keeper, women didn't serve in
the Coast Guard again until the Women's Reserve of the Coast Guard * known as the
"SPARs" -- was established in 1942. SPARs is derived from an acronym for the Coast
Guard motto, "Semper Paratus, Always Ready."

More than 11,000 SPARs served during World War II. The first five African-American
women were accepted in the SPARs in 1945.

During a recent retirement ceremony for Fleming-Makell, Rear Adm. Erroll Brown,
the Coast Guard's first African-American flag officer, pointed out that Fleming-
Makell "didn't join the Coast Guard to make history; she joined to make a
difference."

Brown, assistant commandant of systems for the Coast Guard, said for 20 years
Fleming-Makell worked hard to make that difference. "She has moved our
organization more toward inclusion," the admiral said. "Through her character,
competency and commitment, she moved us through a journey of history, change and a
journey of destiny."

During the ceremony at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial in
Arlington, Va., the guest speaker, Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Tracy Slack, said
Fleming-Makell paved the way for others. "I'm one of the people she paved the way
for," said Slack, chief of the medical administration branch, Maintenance and
Logistics Command Atlantic. "What do you say about a woman who has braved
unfamiliar territory in an often-hostile work environment? It was no easy thing to
integrate the U.S. Coast Guard, and that's what she helped to do. Even though she
was invited into the organization, she wasn't always welcomed to the party."

Slack noted that when Fleming-Makell decided as a young college student to become
a Coast Guard officer, she didn't know the types of challenges she would face.
"She braved boot camp, and braved Officer Candidate School and then she
successfully completed assignments, as she was ordered. She really added a splash
of feminine color to every unit she went to."

Slack said when given the opportunity, Fleming-Makell helped change the Coast
Guard. "Most recently, she developed a program to enhance national security,"
Slack said. "As we hear in the news daily, that is of the utmost importance for
all of us. As program manager for several homeland security initiatives, she
successfully implemented the first official Coast Guard K-9 program since World
War II."

In early March, one of the newly created K-9 units found material for making
improvised explosive devices, including pipe bombs, electric and non-electric
blasting caps in a house, thus thwarting potential terrorist acts, Slack noted. As
part of the Coast Guard's role in homeland security, explosive-detection and
narcotics dog units are trained in techniques for searching ships, vehicles and
buildings as well as deploying from boats and helicopters.

"She wasn't there, but she was instrumental in moving the organization forward and
saving lives," she said.

But Fleming-Makell was there when a Coast Guard team based in Miami located a
large amount of narcotics during a law-enforcement boarding of a vessel.

"Because of Rhonda's actions, drug traffickers were not able to get poison to our
children," Slack said. "These things are tremendous, and she should be applauded."

During her 20 year career, Fleming-Makell served as a general law enforcement
officer; a human relations counselor; assistant special services officer; deputy
officer responding to search and rescue, law enforcement and marine safety
emergencies; operations officer at the Coast Guard Command Center in Washington;
assistant operations officer in Miami; chief of district personnel; and as a law
enforcement specialist at Coast Guard headquarters.

"Since high school, I'd always wanted to join the military, but I changed course
and went to college instead," Fleming-Makell said during an interview. "During a
career fair, I saw a Coast Guard booth and went over and received good information
about the organization."

She said two things impressed her about the Coast Guard * it's a humanitarian
service and "they didn't try to sell their program by offering me a lot of
incentives."

Enlisting in the Coast Guard in 1984, Fleming-Makell took advantage of a special
program that allowed students to complete their senior year of college before
entering active duty. "However, during the summer, students had to attend boot
camp," she noted. "Upon completion, I returned to school to complete my final
year."

After graduating from South Carolina State University in Orangeburg with a degree
in psychology and a minor in special education, Fleming-Makell was a member of the
deck force performing typical seaman's duties before going on to become a 1986
graduate of the Coast Guard Officer Candidate School at Yorktown, Va. She later
earned a master's degree in business administration from Arizona's University of
Phoenix.

"During that time, there were few African-American women officers -- about 10 in
the entire Coast Guard," she noted. "Most of us were placed in jobs like human
relations and civil rights, recruiting, public affairs and special services.
Although these were good jobs, being placed in them made it difficult to compete
with our counterparts when applying for career-enhancing opportunities such as
operational assignments.

"Products were very hard to get at the exchange, such as stockings for women of
color, cosmetics and hair products," she said. "Issues such as these were
important, because all military members were evaluated on appearance."

She eventually moved into career-enhancing jobs. Her last assignment was as a law
enforcement specialist within the Coast Guard's Office of Law Enforcement. Her
responsibilities included developing Coast Guard-wide law enforcement policy,
program management for several homeland security initiatives, maritime law
enforcement schools, law enforcement councils and maintenance of a $1 million
budget.

Four generations of her family attended the retirement ceremony at the women's
memorial, including her uncle Roscoe Smith, a World War II Army veteran, and in
her husband's line, Margaret Anderson, 87, the great-grandmother of her children.
Her father, retired history teacher William G. Fleming, and her mother, Earlene D.
Reed, who retired from the banking business, also were in the audience. Her elder
business-manager sister, Ulanda V. Sanders, chose not to serve in the military.

Also present was her husband, Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. William J. Makell Jr., and
their three children: Branden, 14, William III, 6, and Selena, 4. "I met my
husband during Eclipse weekend at the Coast Guard Academy in April 1992, and we
were married in 1997," Fleming-Makell said. Her husband works in the Office of
Command and Control Architecture (Command, Control, Computers, Communications,
Intelligence, Sensors and Reconnaissance) at Coast Guard headquarters in
Washington.

His father, William J. Makell Sr., served as a Coast Guard steward in the early
1950s. He later worked for the Defense Mapping Agency, becoming the first African-
American branch chief of the topographic plate graphic arts department.

Born in Morganton, N.C., on Nov. 26, 1962, Fleming-Makell graduated from
Greenville (S.C.) Senior High School, where she participated on the basketball and
track and field teams and was a member of the cheerleading squad. She garnered the
1981 most valuable player award in track and field.

A member of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Fleming-Makell was honored in the
March 1993 edition of Essence magazine in an article titled, "Not Just a Blue
Suit."

Fleming-Makell's advice to young African-Americans and other minorities who want
to be successful in the Coast Guard is: "Believe in yourself! Stay abreast of all
opportunities and apply for them. Assist one another, and be good shipmates."

Related Site:

Women's Reserve of the
Coast Guard ("SPARs") [http://www.uscg.mil/hq/g-cp/history/h_wmnres.html]

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 01:44 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Iraqi Court Convicts Three for Planting Roadside Bomb
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2004 - A three-judge panel of the Central Criminal Court
of Iraq tried and convicted three Iraqi men today for actions against coalition
forces, Combined Joint Task Force 7 announced in a news release.

All three were sentenced to 10 years each in an Iraqi prison.

The men were detained near Balad Nov. 20 after being discovered by coalition
forces in the act of burying a homemade bomb -- fashioned from 12 to 14 pounds
of C-4 explosives in a coffee-can type of container -- alongside a road.

"The defendants were tried in an Iraqi court with a prosecutor and defense
counsel," said Army Col. Dwight Warren, chief liaison officer to the Central
Criminal Court of Iraq. "This marks another step forward in the establishment
of an independent Iraqi judiciary."

Warren said the soldiers' vigilance saved lives by ensuring the bomb never
served its intended purpose. "Their apprehension of the three perpetrators will
prevent these terrorists from attempting to murder other soldiers or
civilians," he added.

Related Site:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 04:03 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: U.N. Official Sketches Out Iraq Government After June 30
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gene Harper
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2004 * U.N. special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi emphasized
today that Iraqi elections scheduled for January 2005 are "the most important
milestone" for the country in its progress toward sovereignty.

"There is no substitute for the legitimacy that comes from free and fair
elections," he said during a Baghdad news conference. "Therefore, Iraq will
have a genuinely representative government only after January 2005."

Brahimi used the briefing to provide preliminary observations on how the Iraqi
government should be formed after the June 30 switch in sovereignty. He and his
team have been Iraq nearly two weeks, meeting with a wide range of the
country's constituencies. They have included Iraqi Governing Council members,
governmental ministers, political parties, trade unions, professional
associations, women's groups, tribal leaders and academics.

He pointed out that security considerations have restricted the team's
movements in parts of the country. "We believe that the present security
situation makes it more important and more urgent for the political process to
continue," Brahimi said, "and we expect all stakeholders to redouble their
efforts to ensure that this process is successfully completed."

The U.N. official said he was confident that "a caretaker government" could be
put into place in May. It would be in charge from July 1 until the government
to be elected in January is in place.

"We see it as a government led by a prime minister and comprising Iraqi men and
women known for their honesty, integrity and competence," Brahimi said. "There
will also be a president to act as head of state, and two vice presidents."

He referred to provisions in the Nov. 15, 2003, agreement and the Transitional
Administrative Law stating that the Coalition Provisional Authority and the
Iraqi Governing Council will cease to exist June 30. "Some … members are
already assuming other responsibilities," Brahimi said, adding that others
"will be called upon to participate in various state institutions."

Brahimi also said he received a "large number" of suggestions that a "large
national conference should be convened."

"We see merit in this suggestion. It would serve the all-important aim of
promoting national dialogue, consensus building and national reconciliation in
Iraq," he said, adding that such a meeting would convene soon after June 30.
"The national conference would elect the consultative assembly to serve
alongside the government during the period leading to the election of the
national assembly, which would take place in January 2005."

Brahimi urged Iraqis to take the important, necessary steps for elections to
take place on time. But he cautioned that the security situation "has to
improve significantly for these elections to take place in an acceptable
environment."

Other concerns Brahimi said he and his team heard involved the status of
detainees, and former regime military personnel and Iraqi professionals, such
as teachers, doctors and engineers, sidelined by the "de-Baathification"
process.

He said his next steps included traveling to U.N. headquarters in New York to
brief his findings to Secretary-General Kofi Annan. "I also expect to meet the
president and members of the (U.N.) Security Council," Brahimi said. "My
recommendations to the secretary-general will be finalized only after I return
to Iraq and after we conduct more consultations with more people in Baghdad and
elsewhere in the country."

Related Sites:
United Nations [http://www.un.org/english/]
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 04:03 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Navy to Christen New Guided-Missile Destroyer Nitze
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 322-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 14, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Navy to Christen New Guided-Missile Destroyer Nitze

The newest Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer, Nitze will be
christened on Saturday, April 17, 2004, during a 1 p.m. EDT ceremony at Bath Iron
Works, Bath, Maine.

Sen. Susan M. Collins of Maine will deliver the ceremony’s principal address.
Leezee Porter will serve as sponsor of the ship named for her husband. In the
time-honored Navy tradition, she will break the bottle of champagne across the bow
to formally christen Nitze.

The ship’s name honors Paul H. Nitze, whose distinguished government career
included serving as the 57th secretary of the Navy from 1963 to 1967. Secretary
of the Navy Gordon R. England said, "Paul Nitze is a great American patriot.
Throughout a lifetime of service he has been a trusted advisor to our country's
presidents and other leaders. Ambassador Nitze stood the watch and bravely defied
the fascists and communists who threatened freedom during World War II and the Cold
War. His contributions to the Navy and our nation are many and we are honored to
have this fine ship bear his name."

As the Navy secretary, Nitze raised the level of attention given to quality of
service issues. His many achievements included establishing the first personnel
policy board and retention task force obtaining targeted personnel bonuses, and
raising command responsibility pay. Nitze also became a strong advocate for
officers' advanced education opportunities and worked to enhance greater
integration of senior Navy staff by moving the chief of naval operations' office
next to his own.

Born in Amherst, Mass., on Jan. 16, 1907, Nitze graduated "*** laude"
from Harvard University in 1928. After working in investment banking where he was
known as a Wall Street prodigy, he left that industry in 1941 to enter government
service. During the period 1944-1946, Nitze served as director and then as vice
chairman of the U.S. Strategic Bombing Survey for which President Truman awarded
him the Medal of Merit.

From 1953 to 1961, Nitze served as president of the Foreign Service
Educational Foundation while concurrently serving as associate of the Washington
Center of Foreign Policy Research, the School of Advanced International Studies of
Johns Hopkins University. In 1961 President Kennedy appointed Nitze assistant
secretary of defense for international security affairs and in 1963 he became the
secretary of the Navy, serving until 1967.

Following his term as secretary of the Navy, he served as deputy secretary of
defense (1967-1969), as a member of the U.S. delegation to the Strategic Arms
Limitation Talks (SALT) (1969-1973), and assistant secretary of defense for
international affairs (1973-1976). He was President Reagan's chief negotiator of
the Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (1981-1984). In 1984, Nitze was named
special advisor to the president and secretary of state on arms control. For more
than forty years, Nitze was one of the chief architects of U.S. policy toward the
Soviet Union. President Reagan awarded Nitze the Presidential Medal of Freedom in
1985 for his contributions to the freedom and security of the United States.

Nitze, designated DDG 94, is the 44th ship of 62 Arleigh Burke class
destroyers currently authorized by Congress. This highly capable multi-mission
ship can conduct a variety of operations, from peacetime presence and crisis
management to sea control and power projection, in support of the National Military
Strategy. Nitze will be capable of fighting air, surface, and subsurface battles
simultaneously. The ship contains myriad offensive and defensive weapons designed
to support maritime defense needs well into the 21st century.

Cdr. Michael Hegarty of Oklahoma will become the first commanding officer of the
ship with a crew of approximately 32 officers and 348 enlisted. Bath Iron Works is
building the 9,200-ton Nitze, which is 511 feet in length, with an overall beam of
66 feet, and a navigational draft of 33 feet. Four gas turbine engines will power
the ship to speeds in excess of 30 knots.

For more information on Arleigh Burke class destroyers, visit
http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/factfile/ships/ship-dd.html
[http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/factfile/ships/ship-dd.html] .

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 04:03 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 321-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 14, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pvt. Noah L. Boye, 21, of Grand Island, Neb., died April 13 from
hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th
Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton,
Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 08:25 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Myers Meets with Kuwaiti Leaders, Thanks Them for Support
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

KUWAIT CITY, Kuwait, April 14, 2004 * The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
arrived here today for talks with Kuwaiti leaders.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers , who traveled here from Bahrain, is meeting
with Prime Minister Sheihk Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah, Defense Minister
Jabir Mubarak Hamad al-Sabah and his counterpart, Air Force Lt. Gen. Fahad
Ahmad al-Amir, the chief of staff for the Kuwaiti military. It is the first
time since the United States named Kuwait a "major non-NATO ally" that
discussions at this level have been held.

Myers thanked the Kuwaitis for their steadfast support in the global war on
terrorism and in Operation Iraqi Freedom. U.S. troops staging in and out of
Iraq use Kuwait as a base. The U.S. military uses Kuwait's seaports to ship
vehicles and supplies. Kuwait's airports receive U.S. personnel. The troops and
vehicles marry up in Kuwait and personnel go through final training in the
emirate's Udari training area on the border with Iraq.

Troops moving out of Iraq use the emirate to clean and ready vehicles for
shipment back to the their home stations. They then fly out of the airport for
the reunion with family and friends.

Members of the Coalition Force Land Component Command are managing this
movement. A spokesman for the command, Army Lt. Col. Vic Harris, called the
rotation of forces the "largest American troop movement since World War II."
Some 60,000 American service members are in Kuwait. Many are troops rotating in
and out of Iraq, but others are involved in providing logistics support for
operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa.

"Thousands of trucks run daily into and out of Iraq," Harris said. "They carry
everything from fuel, to food, to all manner of logistics. It's a huge
undertaking."

Officials said that even with Army Gen. John Abizaid's request for more troops
in Iraq, some will continue to rotate. And Kuwait is the hub for the military's
rest and recreation program.

Myers said he spoke on behalf of all service members in expressing his sincere
appreciation for all Kuwait has done and continues to do to support U.S.
efforts in the region. "The United States is committed to maintaining a
strategic partnership with Kuwait so we can share in the security of Kuwait and
the stability of the Middle East," the chairman said.

Biographies:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Joint Chiefs of Staff [http://www.dtic.mil/jcs/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Coalition Force Land Component
Command [http://www.kuwait.army.mil/]
State Department Background
Notes on Kuwait [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5409.htm]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Myers Explains U.S. Position
in Iraq to Arab Audience [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404133.html]
Effort in Iraq 'Going to Take
Time,' Myers Says [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404132.html]
Myers Meets with Bahraini
Leaders During Middle East Trip [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404131.html]

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 08:25 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 324-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 14, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Lance Cpl. Robert P. Zurheide Jr., 20, of Tucson, Ariz., died April 12
from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion,
1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp
Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 08:25 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Myers Visits Italian Coalition Members in Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

TALLIL, Iraq, April 14, 2004 * A visit with foreign members of the coalition
force in Iraq was the first stop for the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
here today.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers visited with Italian members of the
Multinational Division Southeast. Italian Brig. Gen. Gian Marco Chiarini, the
commander of the 132nd "Ariete" Brigade briefed the American officer and his
staff.

The brigade, which is a mix of regular army and police, patrols the area in and
around Nasiriyah. There are 2,900 Italian troops and also 600 Romanian and
Portuguese soldiers in the unit.

The brigade is based outside Tallil air field and named its area Camp Mittica
after a World War II hero of the brigade. The unit has conducted 1,200 patrols
and arrested 168 individuals.

The brigade was involved in some of the violence sparked by extremist Shiia
cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. On April 6, Sadr's militia took the three bridges in
Nasiriyah that gave the U.S. Marines such a problem in 2003. The Italian unit
took to the street and took back the bridges. Italian army Capt. Luigi Paolo
Scollo led the unit that took back the bridges. He told Myers that three
rocket-propelled grenades hit his armored personnel carriers as the unit fought
for the bridges, but that two were duds.

"You were very lucky," Myers said to the captain. "But you were also very
professional in capitalizing on that luck."

Myers noted that the coalition has confiscated thousands and thousands of RPGs
since coming into Iraq. "Everybody in Iraq must have an RPG," Myers said.

"I think it must be a wedding gift," the captain joked.

American Air Force and Army units are based at Tallil, although the number has
dropped since the logistics center moved to Balad. In addition, there is a
South Korean and Dutch contingent on the base.

During the meeting, Myers told the Italians that he appreciated them being in
Iraq. "By all reports, your performance has been outstanding," Myers said.
"Your performance has been absolutely up to the challenge."

An Italian officer said that years of working with the American Army in NATO
exercises and in operations in the former Yugoslavia have made things much
easier. "We all know how we work together," he said. "We've done it in
training. We don't have to learn how to work together in combat."

Biography:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Joint Chiefs of Staff [http://www.dtic.mil/jcs/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Multinational
Divisions in Iraq [http://www.cjtf7.com/the-coalition/coalition-forces.htm]
State Department Background
Notes on Italy [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/4033.htm]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Myers Meets with Kuwaiti
Leaders, Thanks Them for Support [/news/Apr2004/n04142004_200404147.html]
Myers Explains U.S. Position
in Iraq to Arab Audience [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404133.html]
Effort in Iraq 'Going to Take
Time,' Myers Says [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404132.html]
Myers Meets with Bahraini
Leaders During Middle East Trip [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404131.html]

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 08:26 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Wednesday Apr. 14, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 320-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 14, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Wednesday, April 14, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Wednesday, April 14, 2004

CONTRACTS

NAVY

Northrop Grumman Ship Systems, Pascagoula, Miss., is being awarded a
$77,959,027 cost-plus-award-fee modification to previously awarded contract
(N00024-02-C-2302) to effect change from L-Band to S-Band Volume Search Radar, and
establish a land-based testing facility in support of the DD(X) program. . The
change will allow greater flexibility in future ship defense against air threats
and enable leveraging of S-Band advanced radar investments. Work will be performed
in Tewksbury, Mass. (66 percent), Moorestown, N.J. (24 percent), Pascagoula, Miss.
(10 percent), and is expected to be completed by June 2006. The Naval Sea Systems
Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

United Defense, L.P., Armament Systems Division, Minneapolis, Minn., is
being awarded a $42,970,410 firm-fixed-price modification to contract
(N00024-99-C-5206) to procure three 5”/62 MK 45 MOD 4 Gun Mounts. The 5”/62
caliber MK 45 MOD 4 is a fully automatic naval gun capable of supporting
anti-surface, strike, fire support, and anti-air warfare missions. The new MOD 4
configuration will support the Extended Range Guided Munition and will be installed
on DDG 107 through DDG 109. Work will be performed in Minneapolis, Minn. (60
percent) and Louisville, Ky. (40 percent), and is expected to be completed by
December 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal
year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Titan OAT, Fairfax, Va., is being awarded a $36,936,497
cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity completion service
contract, for technical, engineering, and management services to compliment organic
resources of the Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division, tenant
activities, and other federal agencies. Work will be performed in Indian Head,
Md., and is expected to be completed by April 2008. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. This procurement was competitively procured
and advertised on the Internet, with 11 proposals solicited and two offers
received. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Indian Head Division, Indian Head, Md.,
is the contracting activity (N00174-04-D-0004).

Raytheon, Network Centric Systems, St. Petersburg, Fla., is being
awarded a $9,573,873 cost-plus-award-fee modification to previously awarded
contract (N00024-03-C-5118) for Pre-Planned Product Improvement (P3I) to the Navy’s
Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) system. The P3I effort will re-host
current Block 1 software onto CEC processors compliant with Open Architecture
Computing Environment standards. The re-host onto more modern processor technology
will also significantly reduce cost, weight, power and cooling requirements for the
CEC processor set. CEC is a sensor netting system that significantly improves
battle force anti-air warfare capability by extracting and distributing
sensor-derived information to permit data availability to all participating CEC
units via the superset. CEC also improves battle force effectiveness by improving
overall situational awareness and by enabling longer range, cooperative, multiple
or layered engagement strategies. Work will be performed in St. Petersburg, Fla.,
and is expected to be completed by September 2005. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington,
D.C., is the contracting activity.

AIR FORCE

Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson Ariz., is being awarded a $25,424,634
firm fixed price contract modification. This action Exercise Option of 50 Advanced
Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles Air Intercept Missile (AIM)-120 C5 (FMS) missiles,
1 Lot Spares, 1 Lot software Configuration Management, 1 Lot Recontainerization.
This effort supports foreign military sales to Singapore. Total funds have been
obligated. Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is the contracting activity
(F08635-03-C-0031, P00018).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

_ _ Hunt Refining Co., Tuscaloosa Ala., is being awarded a $15, 556,687
fixed price with economic price adjustment for Jet Fuel for the Defense Energy
Support Center. Work will also be performed in another location in Tuscaloosa,
Ala. Performance completion date is scheduled for March 31, 2005. Contract funds
will expire by the end of the current fiscal year. There were 35 proposals
solicited and 24 responded. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support
Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-04-D-0493)

_ _ G.E. Aircraft Engines, Lynn, Mass., is being awarded a $5,332,697
firm fixed price contract to add another national stock number item to an already
existing contract for the U.S. Navy. The original contract is a requirement’s type
contract and the scope of the contract covers military unique, sole source items.
Performance completion date is expected to be August 31, 2004. Contract funds will
expire by the end of the current fiscal year. The contracting activity is the
Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Va. (SP0400-03-D-9404)

ARMY

General Dynamics Government Systems Corp., Taunton, Mass., was awarded
on April 13, 2004, a $10,124,087 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for
Common Hardware/Software items for the Project Manager, Army Tactical Command and
Control Systems computers and associated peripherals for battlefield commanders.
Work will be performed in Taunton, Mass., and is expected to be completed by April
10, 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.
There were 50 bids solicited on April 21, 1994, and three bids were received. The
U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the
contracting activity (DAAB07-02-C-E801).

Northrop Grumman Corp., Rolling Meadows, Ill., was awarded on April 13,
2004, a $7,580,721 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for various spare
parts in support of the Firefinder AN/TPQ-36(V) and AN/TPQ-37(V). Work will be
performed in Rolling Meadows, Ill., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 30,
2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This
was a sole source contract initiated on Nov. 1, 2001. The U.S. Army
Communications-Electronics Command, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting
activity (DAAB07-02-C-H302).

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 08:26 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Myers, Abizaid Hold Strategy Session in Baghdad
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

BAGHDAD, Iraq, April 14, 2004 * The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and
the commander of U.S. Central Command held discussions about the situation in
Iraq here today.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers and Army Gen. John Abizaid spoke for about an
hour and 20 minutes after Myers arrived from meetings in Kuwait.

A Joint Staff official characterized the discussions as "frank, productive, a
good give-and-take." The chairman is in Iraq following meetings with leaders in
Bahrain and Kuwait. He arrived in Iraq at Tallil and met with Italian troops
responsible for patrolling the city of Nasiriyah. He later flew on here.

The chairman arrives as the ceasefire in Fallujah continues. It has been five
days since the Marines have surrounded the area. The city is in the heart of
the Sunni triangle west of Baghdad, and has an enemy group of former regime
elements, foreign fighters and extremists. The Marines moved on the city
following the murder of four Americans by anti-coalition forces and the
mutilation of their bodies by an out-of-control crowd.

In the south, the riots encouraged by radical cleric Muqtada al-Sadr sputter on
in Najaf and Karbala. U.S. troops and other coalition forces have worked to
contain Sadr and his illegal militia. Earlier in Kuwait, Myers said that Sadr
had marginalized himself and his movement. The chairman added that Sadr's move
is against the best interests of Iraqs.

As if pointing up the problems in Iraq, soon after Myers arrived at the place
where he would stay, two rounds hit about 500 meters away. There were no
casualties.

Myers said he visits the region every three or four months "just to get more
texture on what's happening."

He said he is not in Iraq to deliver a message to coalition commanders, but
rather to learn from the situation on the ground. "What I need to know … is
what do they need to do the job?" he said. "You learn a lot from talking to the
commanders on the ground. I learned a lot talking to the Italians in Tallil.
Their morale was great, and they seemed in good spirits."

Biographies:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Joint Chiefs of Staff [http://www.dtic.mil/jcs/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Multinational
Divisions in Iraq [http://www.cjtf7.com/the-coalition/coalition-forces.htm]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Myers Meets with Kuwaiti
Leaders, Thanks Them for Support [/news/Apr2004/n04142004_200404147.html]
Myers Explains U.S. Position
in Iraq to Arab Audience [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404133.html]
Effort in Iraq 'Going to Take
Time,' Myers Says [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404132.html]
Myers Meets with Bahraini
Leaders During Middle East Trip [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404131.html]

Seoulstriker

04-14-2004, 08:26 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 325-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 14, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Sgt. Maj. Michael B. Stack, 48, of Lake City, S.C., died April 11 in Al
Anbar Province, Iraq, while his unit was conducting combat operations. Stack was
assigned to the Army’s 2nd Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group, Fort Campbell, Ky.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 09:51 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: 1st Cavalry Division Takes on Baghdad Responsibility
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

BAGHDAD, Iraq, April 15, 2004 * Task Force Baghdad, made up mostly of the 1st
Cavalry Division, has assumed responsibility for Baghdad and its environs from
the 1st Armored Division.

Maj. Gen. Martin E. Dempsey handed over the responsibility to Maj. Gen. Peter
W. Chiarelli in a "no-fuss, no-muss" manner. "We weren't going to have a
ceremony for this," said Army Lt. Col. Jim Hutton, the public affairs officer
for Task Force Baghdad. "Our people have more important things to do."

News reports indicate that at least portions of the 1st Armored Division, which
has its headquarters in Wiesbaden, Germany, will remain in Iraq as part of the
combat force plus-up that Army Gen. John Abizaid, U.S. Central Command
commander, requested.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers visited the headquarters of Task Force Baghdad
as part of a visit to Iraq. The Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman has stopped at
Tallil and visited with Italian members of the coalition, and at Hillah, where
he visited with the Polish commander of the Multinational Division Central. He
is meeting here with Combined Joint Task Force 7's commander, Army Lt. Gen.
Ricardo S. Sanchez, and Coalition Provisional Authority administrator
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III.

The transition of authority to the 1st Cavalry Division, based at Fort Hood,
Texas, was a long process. The Army identified the division as the replacement
last year. Planning went into high gear. CJTF 7 officials did not want to lose
the experience that the 1st Armored Division had painfully built up in a year in
Baghdad.

Officials from the 1st Cavalry Division visited their counterparts in Baghdad,
and 1st Armored Division personnel began sending information to Fort Hood. The
cavalry division went through training at Fort Hood, the National Training
Center at Fort Irwin, Calif., and the Joint National Training Center at Fort
Polk, La., before deploying.

The Fort Hood unit also began getting raw data from Baghdad and running its own
analyses. They then matched their conclusions with those of the 1st Armored
Division people in Iraq.

The 1st Cavalry Division's initial party deployed in January. Key staff people
met with their counterparts, and the initial party laid the foundation for
follow-on groups. They began a "left-seat/right-seat" training regimen. Under
this program, 1st Cavalry Division people observed 1st Armored Division people
doing their jobs. They would then switch; the 1st Cavalry person would do the
job and the 1st Armored Division person would critique the soldier's
performance. "This went right down to the squad level," Hutton said. "It was
enormously important."

But the 1st Cavalry Division did not just duplicate what the 1st Armored Division
did. For example, the cavalry unit is not based at the Baghdad airport, as the
armored division was. "Eventually, the airport will revert to the Iraqi people,
and they will need the space," Hutton said. "Plus, here force protection is a
bit easier."

Hutton said the division can still get to trouble spots quickly from its new
location.

The big shoulder patch of the 1st Cav is now apparent at military checkpoints
through the city, and, unfortunately, the division has already lost people *
seven soldiers died and 51 were wounded in an attack April 4.

Division officials said the 1st Cav faces a small number of enemies but a threat
that is constantly evolving. They said the division faces former regime
elements, foreign fighters and illegal militias of all stripes. The main focus
of concern is the Thawura area * also known as Sadr City. "Our job is to keep
the area safe, and we are doing that," Hutton said. "We can still go on any
street we want to go on. We can go anywhere we want to go. No government
building is occupied by enemy forces, nor will they be."

Biographies:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
Lt. Gen. Ricardo
S. Sanchez [http://www.cjtf7.com/command-info/senior-leaders.htm]
Maj.
Gen. Martin E. Dempsey [http://www.1ad.army.mil/1ADINFOMAIN/CommandGroup/CGBiography.htm]
Maj. Gen.
Peter W. Chiarelli [http://www.hood.army.mil/1stcavdiv/leaders/leaders.htm]
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Joint Chiefs of Staff [http://www.dtic.mil/jcs/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Multinational
Divisions in Iraq [http://www.cjtf7.com/the-coalition/coalition-forces.htm]
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
1st Cavalry Division [http://www.hood.army.mil/1stcavdiv/]
1st Armored Division [http://www.1ad.army.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 10:43 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Pope Families Welcome Loved Ones Home From Deployment
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C., April 15, 2004 — Balloons, hand-painted "welcome home"
signs, ear-to-ear smiles and a few tears greeted airmen and a small group of
soldiers who returned here April 14 following deployments in Southwest Asia.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404152b.jpg]
available. </font></table>

"It's great to have them back," said Lt. Gen. William Welser III, commander of
18th Air Force at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., who greeted the plane.

Welser credited the airmen with "doing a great job and making it happen" as
they support the war on terror. He said he witnessed many of the newly arrived
airmen at work in the region firsthand during his visit to Southwest Asia just
a few weeks earlier.

"But it's much better to see them home with their families, and to see the big
smiles on the kids' faces," he said.

Some family members who gathered inside a hangar at Pope Air Force Base here
were welcoming a loved one home from combat for the first time. Among them was
Sarah Barnes, who waited with 4-month-old Ian Michael to greet their husband
and daddy, Air Force Capt. Jason Barnes.

Barnes, recently assigned to the 41st Airlift Squadron at Pope after an
assignment at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska, had spent just two months in
Southwest Asia, but expects to return for his next, longer deployment to the
region in July. As excited as Sarah was about her husband's homecoming, she
admitted that the fact that he would leave again so soon gave it a
"bittersweet" note. "But for now," she said, "we're going to concentrate on
getting this little one to know his daddy before he goes back again."

For many other family members in the group, including Air Force Staff Sgt.
Julie Hewett from the 43rd Communications Squadron, today's homecoming was just
one more in a seemingly never-ending cycle of deployments and redeployments.

Hewett said she and her husband, Air Force Tech Sgt. Mark Hewett, have both
deployed frequently in support of the war on terror. "I figure that in the past
seven months, we've probably seen each other about two weeks," she said. Her
husband is expected to redeploy to Southwest Asia in July.

But that didn't dampen the enthusiasm of 3-year-old Davis, who, perched atop
Hewett's shoulders, excitedly pointed to the charter plane as it approached the
runway, then lumbered down the tarmac toward the waiting families. "That's my
daddy! That's daddy's plane!" he squealed.

Maggie Klavik and her four children, too, have learned to deal with their
husband's and father's frequently deployments to Southwest Asia. This one,
three and a half months long, was Maj. Pete Klavik's third in less than two
years with the 41st Airlift Squadron.

Maggie said shorter, more frequent deployments common in the Air Force — as
opposed to the longer deployments typical in the other services — are a lot
easier for the children left behind, particularly younger ones. "But it's
harder for the parents," she said.

"It's a lot harder," agreed Susan Broughman, whose husband, Master Sgt. Brandon
Broughman, was returning home from his third deployment with the 41st Airlift
Squadron. "There's always a transition, and you always have in the back of your
mind, 'It's great that he's home, but he's leaving again soon," she said.

But as the families awaited that first long-awaited glimpse of their loved ones
as they climbed from the aircraft and walked toward the hangar, their thoughts
were on the more immediate future: the first hug, the big dinner celebration
ahead, the catching up to do.

Erin Buczkowski hoped her husband, Capt. Braden Buczkowski, an exchange officer
from the Canadian Air Force, might even squeeze in some time to cut the grass
before a big North Carolina-style barbecue with the neighbors.

Army Spc. Manuel Ramirez from the 647th Quartermaster Company, one of the small
group of soldiers on the plane, said he had a lot of catching up to do with his
wife, Jessica, after serving 10 months in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

"We're just going to go out and have some fun," he said.

Biography:
Lt. Gen. William Welser
III [http://www.af.mil/bios/bio.asp?bioID=7549]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
18th Air Force [http://amcpublic.scott.af.mil/]
Pope Air Force Base, N.C. [http://public.pope.amc.af.mil/]
43rd
Communications Squadron [http://public.pope.amc.af.mil/43SPTG/43cs/Index.htm]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

200404152c.jpg Air Force Staff Sgt. Julie Hewett and her 3-year-old son, Davis,
await the arrival of their husband and father, Tech. Sgt. Mark Hewett, who
returned to Pope Air Force Base, N.C., April 14 after a deployment to Southwest
Asia. Photo by Donna Miles

200404152c_hr.jpg

200404152a.jpg Army Spc. Manuel Ramirez from the 647th Quartermaster Company
based at Fort Bragg, N.C., hugs his wife, Jessica, after returning to Pope Air
Force Base, N.C., following a nine-month deployment to Afghanistan. Ramirez was
among a small group of soldiers who returned home April 14. Photo by Donna
Miles

200404152a_hr.jpg

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 10:47 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Senior Leadership Approves New Civilian Personnel System Plan
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By K.L. Vantran
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2004 -- Senior leadership in the Defense Department approved
the plans for the new National Security Personnel System, Secretary of the Navy
Gordon R. England, who is heading the project, announced here April 14.

The system, authorized by the fiscal 2004 National Defense Authorization Act, will
introduce changes in the way the department hires, pays, promotes, disciplines and
fires its civilian employees.

Six teams of about 25 to 30 people, representing various agencies within DoD,
spent the last several weeks reviewing NSPS, said England at a meeting with
reporters in the Pentagon. Representatives from the Office of Personnel Management
and Office of Management and Budget also participated. The teams received
briefings from Department of Homeland Security and General Accounting Office
personnel.

Earlier this month, England and David S.C. Chu, undersecretary of defense for
personnel and readiness, sent a letter to the department's civilian employees on
the progress of NSPS.

"The task before us is to design a transformed system for the department's 700,000
civilian employees that supports our national security mission while treating
workers fairly and protecting their rights," the letter stated. "We want to ensure
that all stakeholders in the new system * including civilian employees (and)
managers … have an opportunity to provide their thoughts, ideas, views and
concerns."

The consensus for the journey ahead, said England, includes a full partnership
with OPM.

"They're working with us, providing assistance and expertise, in developing
regulations which are to be signed by the defense secretary and the director of
OPM," he added.

"We look forward to this effort," said George Nesterczuk, OPM's senior adviser to
the director for the Department of Defense. "It will take a while, but we're going
to do it right. The inclusion of employees and key stakeholders is vital to the
success of this effort."

England agreed. While NSPS is mission-first, it's also employee-centric, and the
secretary said he encourages input from employees. Mechanisms such as Web pages
and town meetings will not only provide information to the work force, but also
will allow for feedback.

The plan also calls for "aggressive, but event-driven schedules," he said. The
first milestone is to have a labor-relations draft regulation to the Federal
Register by November.

"We have schedules, but they could be longer (or) they could be shorter, because
it's event-driven and it depends on how we do each step," added England. "We won't
go to the next step until we finish, because we are going to do it right. We won't
rush it.

"We'll go through this in stages and phases," he continued. "We'll get feedback,
and we'll keep improving the program as we proceed."

England said NSPS is a great opportunity for employees, the Defense Department and
America.

"It's a great opportunity to have a terrific program for our employees, and I'm
convinced we will," he added. "The process will work and the product will be one
that everyone will want to embrace and be proud to embrace."

Biographies:
Navy Secretary Gordon R. England [/bios/england_bio.html]
Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness
David S.C. Chu [/bios/chu_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
National Security Personnel System [http://www.cpms.osd.mil/nsps/]
Office of Personnel Management [http://www.opm.gov/]
Office of Management and Budget [http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Chu, England Discuss New Civilian
System in Open Letter [/news/Apr2004/n04022004_200404021.html]
New Civilian Personnel System
Moves Forward [/news/Feb2004/n02192004_200402197.html]

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 11:08 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: World War II Memorial to Open Last Week of April
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2004 -- It's been a long time coming -- some 59 years
after the war -- but soon visitors wandering about the National Mall here will
see the new memorial dedicated to the nation's World War II veterans.

Betsy Glick, the memorial's communications director, said the 7.4-acre site
between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial still needs some
"fine-tuning of small items," but that the memorial will be ready for opening
the last week of April.

"We have yet to complete paving the sidewalks leading to the memorial, as well
as some components of the information pavilion and comfort facilities," she
said. However, she added, the few -- mostly travel writers —- who have managed
to get a glimpse of the memorial have been "very pleased" at how beautifully
the monument nestles in with existing elements on the Mall.

When she asked one veteran from Texas accompanying a reporter what he thought,
he replied, "You got it right."

Two 43-foot arches welcome visitors to a bronze-and-granite memorial plaza. The
arches, she said, serve as north and south entries to the plaza, and within
each arch are four bronze eagles that hold a suspended victory laurel.

A 17-foot granite pillar adorned with bronze oak and wheat wreaths, symbolic of
the nation's industrial and agricultural strength, represents each state and
territory from that period. "The 56 pillars celebrate unprecedented national
unity," Glick explained.

In the center of the pillars stands a rainbow reflecting pool with fountains
and a wall with 4,000 sculpted, gold-plated stars. The stars commemorate the
400,000 American soldiers who died in the war and the 16 million who served and
supported the war effort from home, she added.

The memorial, which cost $170 million to build and will be officially dedicated
May 29 during Memorial Day weekend, culminates an 11-year effort to honor
America's World War II generation.

The four-day celebration begins a 100-day summer-long tribute to the world War
II generation that Glick said is "long overdue."

"We are proud to finally have a place to honor those Americans in the military
and on the home front who took up the struggle to defend freedom and save the
world from tyranny," she said. "The memorial will stand as a symbol of American
national unity, a timeless reminder of the moral strength and awesome power of
a free people united and bonded together in a common and just cause."

Glick said the memorial fund received $194 million; $16 million came from the
government, and $15 million is interest income. She said the rest of the money
came from "hundreds of thousands" of individual donors.

"Corporations, veterans organizations, states, foundations, school children and
others, recognize that a tribute to the World War II generation is long
overdue, and contributed to help build a memorial in their honor," she
explained.

Organizers anticipate more than 100,000 visitors for the official dedication.
Glick said the four-day event will be perhaps the largest gathering of World
War II veterans since the war ended.

"There has been strong nationwide interest in attending the dedication
ceremony, particularly by members of the World War II generation," Glick said.
"We received requests for all 117,000 ticketed seats." Due to overwhelming
demand, she said, ticket requests are no longer being accepted.

Glick added that even more people are expected to participate in the four-day
"Tribute to a Generation" May 27-30 near the Smithsonian museums on the
National Mall.

Memorial organizers will cordon off a five-block area between Third and Seventh
streets in northwest Washington to host an array of outdoor events,
presentations, interactive displays and concerts.

The official dedication begins at noon May 30, with gates opening between 9 and
11 a.m. Two hours of pre-ceremony entertainment will include Big Band and Swing
music * the popular musical genre during the war -- and a patriotic finale.
Military bands also will provide entertainment during the event.

Other planned activities include a World War II-themed reunion and exhibition
on the Mall, a service of celebration at the Washington National Cathedral, and
an entertainment salute to World War II veterans from military performing
units. Related activities will take place at cultural venues throughout the
city.

President Bush has been invited to receive the memorial on behalf of the
nation. Former Sen. Bob Dole, who served as the volunteer national chairman of
the memorial fund-raising campaign, also is expected to take part in the
ceremony.

Glick said anyone planning to attend the dedication ceremony who does not have
a ticket should visit the memorial's Web site to find out about alternate
nonticketed viewing areas in the city, or to view the ceremony on television.

Related Site:
World War II Memorial [http://www.wwiimemorial.com]

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 12:06 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: 2 Soldiers Dead; Enemy Employing New Tactic in Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2004 * Two American soldiers died in Iraq April 14, one
of them as a result of enemy action, and five others were wounded. Also in
Iraq, coalition officials reported a new tactic used by terrorist forces: using
aid convoys to smuggle arms.

Two attacks with improvised explosive devices near Samarrah left one soldier
from Task Force Danger dead and another five wounded, according to a news
release from Combined Joint Task Force 7.

The first IED attack on a convoy at about noon local time killed one soldier
and wounded two. Nearby, a second attack on another convoy wounded three more
soldiers, according to the release. The wounded soldiers were taken to
Logistics Support Area Anaconda for medical treatment. They were listed in
stable condition.

A Task Force Olympia soldier in Mosul died April 14 from "an acute cardiac
event," a task force spokesman said in a release.

U.S. military officials in Mosul disputed a ******* wire-service report that a
U.S. soldier had been killed in action in Mosul. "No U.S. soldiers have been
killed in action in Mosul since an improvised-explosive-device incident more
than one week ago," an official said in a statement.

In restive Fallujah, where tensions remain high between Marines and the local
population, a convoy of humanitarian goods was found to contain weapons and
ammunition, according to CJTF 7 officials.

U.S. Marines working with Iraqi forces in the area reported finding armor-
piercing rounds, aiming sights for rockets, and rifles hidden in bags of rice,
grain and tea. "The man detained for transporting the weapons was wearing a
poorly made Red Crescent uniform in an attempt to make the convoy look
legitimate," a spokesman said in a statement.

Also in Fallujah, Marines engaged an enemy sniper, who then fled in an Iraqi
ambulance. "By using the ambulances, (the enemy forces) put wounded and dying
Iraqis in harm's way, preventing them the services they need to reach medical
care," the spokesman said.

Operationally, the past 24 hours have been eventful for coalition forces in
Iraq. Marines in Kharma, near Fallujah, repelled an attack by "a significant
number" of anti-Iraqi forces on a defensive position near a residential
neighborhood. Local residents later told the Marines the rebel forces had
virtually held them hostage in their own homes recently.

Through a series of raids, U.S. Marines and soldiers netted several suspects
and weapons caches in Anbar Province, according to CJTF 7 officials.

<li type=disc> Near Habbiniyah, soldiers with 1st Brigade Combat Team turned up
an IED factory. The soldiers discovered parts for making IEDs, weapons and a
suspected IED testing area. Soldiers killed 16 enemy combatants and detained
another 10.

<li type=disc> Soldiers with 1st Brigade Combat Team also captured seven enemy
suspected of launching IED and mortar attacks near Khalidiyah, just southeast
of Ramadi. Soldiers recovered four rocket-propelled-grenade rounds, an RPG
launcher, an IED triggering device attached to 100 feet of wire, and plastic
explosives.

<li type=disc> Marines in Ramadi conducted a cordon-and-search mission and
detained seven enemy after finding five sticks of dynamite, grenades and
blasting caps in two different houses.

<li type=disc> A raid on a smuggler's house in Fallujah turned up hidden
weapons. Sixteen men were detained.

Marines and soldiers also continue to assist local residents whenever possible,
officials said.

<li type=disc> Soldiers with the 1st Brigade Combat Team came to the aid of
three Iraqi men in Ramadi after their fuel truck caught on fire. The soldiers
rendered first aid to the injured men and remained on the scene until an Iraqi
ambulance arrived.

<li type=disc> Soldiers in Ramadi visited a glass factory to assess needed
repairs to a water-cooling tower the plant manager said was burned in a fire.

Related Sites:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
1st Brigade Combat
Team [http://www.riley.army.mil/Units/1BCT1ID/]

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 02:09 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 327-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 15, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Staff Sgt. Victor A. Rosaleslomeli, 29, of Westminster, Calif., died
April 13 in Iraq when an improvised explosive device exploded near his escort
vehicle. Rosaleslomeli was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment,
1st Infantry Division, Vilseck, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 02:12 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 328-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 15, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Richard K. Trevithick, 20, of Gaines, Mich., died April 14 in
Balad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device exploded near his convoy vehicle.
Trevithick was assigned to the Army’s 9th Engineer Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat
Team, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 03:05 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: National Guard Video Honors Sacrifices in War on Terror
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Master Sgt. Bob Haskell, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

ARLINGTON, Va., April 15, 2004 * Jeffrey Wershow died in Iraq in July. A year
after the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Wershow became a National Guard
icon.

Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, chief of the National Guard Bureau, is telling everyone
he can about the 22-year-old infantry specialist from the Florida Army National
Guard.

Blum tells Wershow's story while showing a video about what National Guard
soldiers and airmen have contributed to the global war against terrorism since
Sept. 11, 2001.
The 3-minute, 37-second video is a collage of film clips and still photos set
to the Toby Keith song "American Soldier," which was No. 1 on the country music
charts as the first year of the war in Iraq was coming to a close.

Veteran members of the National Guard Bureau's public affairs team produced two
videos to pay tribute to the fallen Guard members.

One is grounded in Toby Keith's hit song "American Soldier." It shows National
Guard troops performing their duties in Afghanistan, Iraq and supporting
homeland efforts.

The other is a memorial to the Guard members who have been killed during the
war against terrorism. Their names are displayed against an American flag that
is waving in the breeze. "Taps" is the mournful musical score. The 3-minute,
17-second video ends with the sobering message, "All Gave Some; Some Gave All."

Army Guard Sgts. 1st Class Paul Mouilleseaux and Tom Roberts shot most of
footage and photographs and produced the videos that are being distributed to
National Guard personnel throughout the country.

Blum presented the award-winning military journalists with Air Force
Achievement Medals for their poignant portrayals of the National Guard at war.

"What the National Guard does and means was the message we tried to convey in
the Toby Keith video," said Mouilleseaux, who also has two Emmy Awards. He was
a staff photographer on news teams for a Louisville, Ky., commercial television
station, WHAS-TV, which won Midwestern regional Emmy Awards in 1994 and 2000.

"With the memorial video, we wanted to inject some honor and pride and emotion
into the sacrifices that these Guard soldiers and airmen have made to make sure
they are never forgotten," Mouilleseaux added.

Wershow, who went to war with the 2nd Battalion, 124th Infantry, appears twice
in that National Guard video that also speaks to the sacrifices that Guard
soldiers and airmen have made during the war. Wershow is seen in the green haze
of a night-vision lens, planting the American and Florida flags beside a breach
in a defensive wall in northern Iraq.

Florida Army Guard and active Army soldiers invaded Iraq, Blum explains, in the
dead of a night before coalition forces actually launched Operation Iraqi
Freedom on the night of March 19, 2003.

Wershow did not have long to savor that moment, Blum relates a little later
during the video as a casket covered with Old Glory is carried onto an Air
National Guard plane. He was shot in the head and killed in Baghdad while
buying a can of soda on July 6.

"Jeffrey Wershow was one of our Guard members who went into the fight before
the fighting officially started," Blum has observed. "And Jeffrey Wershow was
one of the people who made the ultimate sacrifice."

There have been many Jeffrey Wershows during the past year, as the National
Guard has paid a dear price in blood and tears while holding up its end of the
fight against tyranny and terrorism, against those who would do this country
harm.

Sixty-five Guard members have died because they have been willing to go into
harm's way.

Fifty-five Army Guard soldiers and one Air National Guard officer had given
their lives during the first year of operations against Iraq by March 20,
according to Defense Department casualty reports.

That was the day that California Army Guard 1st Lt. Michael Vega, 41, died at
the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington from injuries suffered when
his vehicle rolled over during a firefight in Iraq on March 11.

Another eight Guard soldiers and an airman have died while taking part in
Operation Enduring Freedom, in which terrorists based in Afghanistan have been
the focus of attention since April 2002.

Twenty-seven of the Iraqi casualties have been killed in action or have died of
combat wounds, according to DoD reports. Three have been killed in action in
Afghanistan.

Many others have been wounded and lost limbs and have begun coming to grips at
places like Walter Reed with the reality of resuming their lives, which have
been forever altered by warfare.

They will be remembered in many places. The 56 who have died during Operation
Iraqi Freedom came from 25 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico,
based on Defense Department casualty reports.

Five belonged to Army Guard units in Iowa, the state that has been hardest hit.

California and Alabama have each lost four Guard soldiers. Indiana has lost
three Guard soldiers engaged in Operation Iraqi Freedom and another during
Operation Enduring Freedom.

July and November were the deadliest months during the first year of the Iraqi
war. Eight Guard Soldiers perished during each month. Seven more died during
August, September and December.

Improvised explosive devices have taken many of the lives that will again be
remembered with tears and "Taps" during Memorial Day observances in late May.

But the sacrifices have been made in many ways.

Illinois 1st Lt. Brian Slavenas and Iowa Chief Warrant Officer Bruce Smith and
Sgt. Paul Fisher were killed when their CH-47 Chinook helicopter was shot down
in Fallujah, Iraq, on Nov. 2.

Ohio Spec. Todd Bates drowned south of Baghdad on Dec. 10 after diving into the
Tigris River to try to save his squad leader, Staff Sgt. Aaron Reese, who fell
overboard during a river patrol. Both men with the 135th Military Police
Company died.

And many people now know the story of Florida Spc. Jeffrey Wershow because the
chief of the National Guard Bureau is telling everyone he can how the college
student and aspiring politician left his Florida home to put his life on the
line, as so many National Guard people have done when their country has called.

National Guard Casualties, War Against Terrorism

Following are the names of those who have died while participating in Iraqi
Freedom and Enduring Freedom operations. The list includes their ages, states
or territories in which their Guard units are based, and the dates and
countries of their deaths. KIA indicates they were killed in action. DOW
indicates they died of wounds. All were members of the Army National Guard
except for two who belonged to the Air National Guard, indicated by asterisks.

Operation Iraqi Freedom

2004

1st Lt. Michael Vega, 41, California, March 20, Washington, DC.

Sgt. Ivory Phipps, 44, Illinois, March 17, Iraq, KIA.

Master Sgt. Thomas Thigpen Sr., 52, South Carolina, March 16, Kuwait.

Sgt. William Normandy, 42, Vermont, March 15, Kuwait.

Spc. Jocelyn Carrasquillo, 28, North Carolina, March 13, Iraq, KIA.

Spc. Christopher Taylor, 25, Alabama, Feb. 16, Iraq, KIA.

Spc. Eric Ramirez, 31, California, Feb. 12, Iraq, KIA.

Spc. Elijah Wong, 42, Arizona, Feb. 9, Iraq.

Spc. Joshua Knowles, 23, Iowa, Feb. 5, Iraq, KIA.

Sgt. Keith Smette, 25, North Dakota, Jan. 24, Iraq, KIA.

Staff Sgt. Kenneth Hendrickson, 41, North Dakota, Jan. 24, Iraq, KIA.

2003

Spc. Michael Mihalakis, 18, California, Dec. 26, Iraq.

Staff Sgt. Michael Sutter, 28, Michigan, Dec. 26, Iraq, KIA.

Spc. Nathan Nakis, 19, Oregon, Dec. 16, Iraq.

Staff Sgt. Aaron Reese, 31, Ohio, Dec. 10, Iraq.

Spc. Todd Bates, 20, Ohio, Dec. 10, Iraq.

Spc. Raphael Davis, 24, Mississippi, Dec. 2, Iraq, KIA.

Spc. Aaron Sissel, 22, Iowa, Nov. 29, Iraq, KIA.

Cpl. Darrell Smith, 28, Indiana, Nov. 23, Iraq.

Spc. Robert Wise, 21, Florida, Nov. 12, Iraq, KIA.

Staff Sgt. Nathan Bailey, 46, Tennessee, Nov. 12, Kuwait.

Sgt. Paul Fisher, 39, Iowa, Nov. 6, Germany, DOW.

Spc. James Chance III, 25, Mississippi, Nov. 6, Iraq, KIA.

1st Lt. Brian Slavenas, 30, Illinois, Nov. 2, Iraq, KIA.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Bruce Smith, 41, Iowa, Nov. 2, Iraq, DOW.

Pvt. Algernon Adams, 36, South Carolina, Oct. 28, Iraq.

Sgt. Aubrey Bell, 33, Alabama, Oct. 27, Iraq, KIA.

Pfc. Paul Bueche, 19, Alabama, Oct. 21, Iraq.

Spc. Michael Williams, 46, New York, Oct. 17, Iraq, KIA.

Sgt. Darrin Potter, 24, Kentucky, Sept. 29, Iraq.

Sgt. 1st Class Robert Rooney, 43, Massachusetts, Sept. 25, Kuwait.

Capt. Robert Lucero, 34, Wyoming, Sept. 25, Iraq, KIA.

Spc. Michael Andrade, 28, Rhode Island, Sept. 24, Iraq.

Sgt. Charles Caldwell, 38, Rhode Island, Sept. 1, Iraq, KIA.

Staff Sgt. Joseph Camara, 40, Rhode Island, Sept. 1, Iraq, KIA.

Spc. Darryl Dent, 21, District of Columbia, Aug. 26, Iraq, KIA.

Staff Sgt. Bobby Franklin, 38, North Carolina, Aug. 20, Iraq, KIA.

Pfc. David Kirchoff, 31, Iowa, Aug. 14, Germany.

Staff Sgt. David Perry, 36, California, Aug. 10, Iraq, KIA.

Sgt. Floyd Knighten Jr., 55, Louisiana, Aug. 9, Iraq.

Pfc. Brandon Ramsey, 21, Illinois, Aug. 8, Iraq.

Staff Sgt. David Lloyd, 44, Tennessee, Aug. 5, Kuwait.

Sgt. Heath McMillin, 29, New York, July 27, Iraq, KIA.

Spc. Jon Fettig, 30, North Dakota, July 22, Iraq, KIA.

Sgt.1st Class Christopher Willoughby, 29, Georgia, July 20, Iraq.

Spc. Joshua Neusche, 20, Missouri, July 12, Germany.

Sgt. Roger Rowe, 54, Tennessee, July 9, Iraq, KIA.

Sgt. 1st Class Craig Boling, 38, Indiana, July 8, Kuwait.

Spc. Jeffrey Wershow, 22, Florida, July 6, Iraq, KIA.

Spc. Richard Orengo, 32, Puerto Rico, June 26, Iraq.

Cpl. John Rivero, 23, Florida, April 17, Kuwait.

Spc. Richard Goward, 32, Michigan, April 14, Iraq.

Spc. William Jeffries, 39, Indiana, March 26, Spain.

*Maj. Gregory Stone, 40, Idaho, March 25, Kuwait.

Non-deployed

Staff Sgt. Harold Best, 47, North Carolina, Oct. 7, 2003, Fort Stewart, Ga.

Spc. Jeremy Loveless, 22, Alabama, April 28, 2003, Fort Benning, Ga.

Operation Enduring Freedom

2004

Sgt. Roy Wood, 47, Florida, Jan. 9, Afghanistan.

2003

Sgt. Theodore Perreault, 33, Massachusetts, Dec. 23, Cuba.

Pfc. Kristian Parker, 23, Louisiana, Sept. 29, Qatar.

Sgt. Christopher Geiger, 38, Pennsylvania, July 9, Afghanistan.

*Staff Sgt. Jacob Frazier, 24, Illinois, March 29, Afghanistan, KIA

Spc. Brian Clemens, 19, Indiana, Feb. 7, Kuwait.

Sgt. Michael Barry, 29, Missouri, Feb. 1, Qatar.

2002

Sgt. Gene Vance Jr., 38, West Virginia, May 19, Afghanistan, KIA

Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Romero, 31, Colorado, April 15, Afghanistan, KIA

(Army Master Sgt. Bob Haskell is assigned to the National Guard Bureau.)

Biography:
Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum [http://www.ngb.army.mil/chief/bio.asp]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
National Guard Bureau [http://www.ngb.army.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 03:13 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Voter Education Key For Iraqi Elections, U.N. Official Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2004 * Iraqi citizens who will vote in January's
elections will need to be educated about the new system, a senior United
Nations official said in Baghdad today.

The "most important thing in an election," observed U.N. election expert Carina
Perelli, is "to make sure that the voters and the citizens know exactly what …
they are voting for" and how the electoral process works.

Some other requirements for Iraqi elections, Perelli noted, involve
establishing voter lists and training 70,000 to 130,000 poll workers.
Legislative changes necessary to hold Iraqi elections in January, she noted,
need to be concluded by the end of May.

Perelli, chief of the U.N.'s electoral assistance division, arrived in Iraq
with her group on March 26. Her group, she said, has been holding discussions
with Coalition Provisional Authority officials, Iraqi Governing Council members
and Iraqis outside the government * including religious leaders - to solicit
opinions and input for election planning.

She noted that an Iraqi electoral committee has been formed - from which an
Iraqi electoral commission will be established * for election planning and
preparations.

The Iraqi elections, U.N. special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi saidd April 14 at a
Baghdad news conference, "are the most important milestone" in Iraq's march
toward sovereignty.

Brahimi and other U.N. specialists, including Perelli, are in Iraq to assist in
the stand-up of Iraq's sovereign government after the June 30 transfer of power
from the CPA.

CPA administrator Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III praised the U.N.'s Iraq
contingent in an April 14 statement. "We are grateful to (U.N.) Secretary-
General (Kofi) Annan, Mr. Brahimi, and all the U.N. personnel here for their
highly constructive contribution."

Bremer's atatement emphasized the importance of the U.N. role in the process.
"We hope that the U.N. will continue to use its expertise to play a vital role
in advising Iraq as it moves forward with its political transition," he said.
"This is an important step on Iraq's path to sovereignty on June 30 and first
direct elections early next year."

Biographies:
U.N. Secretary-General
Kofi Annan [http://www.un.org/News/ossg/sg/index.shtml]
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
United Nations [http://www.un.org/english/]
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
U.N. Official Sketches Out
Iraq Government After June 30 [/news/Apr2004/n04142004_200404146.html]

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 04:26 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Health Officials Concerned Over Military Suicides
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2004 -- The number of suicides in Iraq has the full
attention of Defense Department health officials, who are asking soldiers
suffering from combat related stress to seek medical assistance.

In an interview with American Forces Radio and Television Service, Dr. David N.
Tornberg, deputy assistant secretary of defense for clinical and program
policy, said suicide deaths are a "primary concern" for his office.

"It's very important for anyone who is feeling stressed to come forward, to
speak to their chaplain, to speak to a mental health practitioner or physician,
to speak to someone in your line of authority," he said.

Especially troubling to Tornberg is an Army report by mental health experts
that revealed soldiers committed suicide at elevated rates during 2003, with
those deployed to Iraq and Kuwait experiencing the greatest increase.

DoD officials have reported a drop in the number of suicides this year, with no
suicides reported in January or February, and just one in March.

Tornberg said males ages 18-25 with financial, legal and relationship problems
compose the largest risk group for suicide.

According to DoD statistics, there were 24 suicide deaths in 2003 in Kuwait and
Iraq — a rate of 17.3 per 100,000. The overall Army suicide rate during the
same time period was 12.8 per 100,000 soldiers.

Still, officials say the Army suicide rates of 12.2 for 2003 and 11.9 from 1995
to 2002 remain lower than the national average of 21.5 per 100,000 for males
ages 20 to 34 — the age span for most U.S. soldiers in Iraq.

Though the military has several comprehensive programs in place to address the
mental health needs of service members, Tornberg said more emphasis will be
placed on suicide prevention training for leaders and troops, beginning before
and after the deployment cycle.

Prior to deployment, service members receive mental health screenings, and
during the course of deployment, mental health support teams are available to
provide assistance as needed, Tornberg said.

Upon redeployment, service members go through a "re-integration" process
designed to help their transition back into family life. Service members are
also re-screened for mental health problems. "Follow-on services are available
if they should encounter any difficulties," he said.

Tornberg said last year the military conducted a first-of*its-kind study of
service members in a battle zone. Mental health experts surveyed 756 soldiers
in Iraq between late August and early October.

The study consisted of hundreds interviews of soldiers, their leaders, and
support forces such as behavioral health and medical-care providers and unit
ministry staffs.

"They learned a lot from that trip," he said. "First and foremost, it
reaffirmed the fact that the battlefield today, despite all training, is a very
stressful environment."

Surprisingly, Tornberg said the majority, some 77 percent of the troops
interviewed, did not feel an "excessive" degree of stress, and felt they were
managing their stresses well. He said he believes they considered the stress
levels they anticipated as the benchmark in determining whether they
experienced "excessive" stress.

Still, he said recommendations in the report have called for making behavioral
health care more accessible to soldiers in combat and other high-stress
environments "so that mental health professionals are actively available and
ready down at the battle lines."

He said the study further revealed a need to optimize the well-being of
soldiers by enhancing environmental and living conditions in theater.

One of the significant developments in the Iraq study, he said, was the success
of combat stress control teams. He said the teams have been used in the past,
but that DoD has substantially increased the program and its focus.

Plans are to have combat stress teams "fully integrated" into the battlefield
and readily available to provide intervention as close to the front as
possible, he said.

"There is just no substitute for having those services readily available," he
said. "It's worked marvelously well in uplifting the mental health of the
troops."

He noted that 96 percent of soldiers who have ready access to mental health
resources are able to return to their units.

Tornberg said each service has its own stress management program to acquaint
service members to the various reactions to stress and the appropriate
management of those conditions.

The Army's Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, or "ASIST" program, is
a computer-based program that, along with classroom training, offers soldiers
and leaders training involving suicidal behavior.

The Army introduced the program about three years ago to give anyone who might
come in contact with a person at risk of committing suicide the tools to
intervene.

A "Soldiers, Leaders and Communities Saving Lives" suicide prevention campaign
launched earlier was aimed at teaching soldiers how to recognize early signs of
suicidal behavior and how to respond.

In February, the Army set up a toll-free crisis hotline to help curb suicides
among soldiers during high-stress periods.

Tornberg urged service members who are having problems dealing with stress to
come forward and address their issues. He also wants service members to look
out for comrades who may be displaying signs of stress. "It would be important
to talk to that individual," he said, "but also seek help for him or her as
well."

He said many service members don't seek help from a mental health professional
because they see that as a "sign of weakness" or believe a stigma is attached
to seeking help.

"It is absolutely not" he said. "Reaction to stress is a condition experienced
throughout society, not just in the military -- particularly in the young,
particularly in the aged," he explained. "It's something that we as a society
have to address. And the stigma is something that we want to be removed."

He said service members should seek help for stress disorders just as they
would for an ankle sprain.

Biography:
Deputy Assistant Secretary
of Defense for Clinical and Program Policy Dr. David N. Torberg [http://www.ha.osd.mil/CPP/tornberg-bio.cfm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
The Doctor Is In:
Suicide Prevention and Awareness [http://www.tricare.osd.mil/media/the_doctor18.cfm]
DoD Health Affairs [http://www.ha.osd.mil/]
American Forces Radio and Television
Service [http://www.afrts.osd.mil/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
2003 Suicide Rates Elevated
Among Iraqi Freedom Troops; 2004 Rates Dip [/news/Mar2004/n03252004_200403259.html]
'No Epidemic' Number Of
Soldier Suicides in Iraq [/news/Jan2004/n01292004_200401293.html]

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 05:19 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Thursday Apr. 15, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 326-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 15, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Thursday, April 15, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Thursday, April 15, 2004

CONTRACTS

AIR FORCE

Cooperative Utility Services Inc., Prattville, Ala., is being awarded a
$41,229,000 firm fixed price contract. The Utilities Privatization Program is for
the transfer of ownership, operation, and maintenance of the electric utility at
Maxwell-Gunter, Ala. The new owner, whether a utility company or other private
entity, shall plan, finance, design, construct, operate and maintain the Electric
System and it’s infrastructure. At this time, $433,200 of the funds have been
obligated. Solicitation began January 2000 and negotiations were completed
November 2003. The Air Education and Training Command is the contracting activity
(FA-4819-04-C-6001).

NAVY

General Electric Aircraft Engines, Government Contracts, Cincinnati,
Ohio, is being awarded a $14,000,000 modification to a previously awarded
cost-plus-award-fee contract (N00019-96-C-0176) to conduct risk reduction efforts
under the Pre-System Development and Demonstration Development Phase IIIb for the
F136 Propulsion System for the Joint Strike Fighter Air System Program. Efforts
will include additional component design and trade studies, hardware procurement
and fabrication, and test and system integration risk reduction tasks that will
allow the F136 propulsion system to enter Phase IV with lower technical and
schedule risk. Work will be performed in Evendale, Ohio (45 percent);
Indianapolis, Ind. (34 percent); and Bristol, United Kingdom (21 percent), and is
expected to be completed in April 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end
of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is
the contracting activity.

Coalescent Technologies Corp., Orlando Fla., is being awarded a
$7,877,887 cost plus fixed fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, service
contract for Research and Concept Development Support Services for Joint Forces
Programs. The contractor will provide research and concept development support
services to Joint Force programs such as Strike, Expeditionary Warfare, Air
Defense/Theater Ballistic Missile Defense (TBMD), Command and Control Warfare,
Logistics including Asset Visibility/Asset Management, Manpower and Infrastructure
architecture. Work will be performed in Orlando, Fla., and is expected to be
completed by April 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current
fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured and advertised on the
Internet, with 50 proposals solicited and two offers received. The Indian Head
Division, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head, Md., is the contracting
activity (N00174-04-D-0005).

Lockheed Martin Corp., Maritime Systems & Sensors (LMMS2), Baltimore,
Md., is being awarded a $5,553,751 firm-fixed-priced modification to previously
awarded contract (N00024-98-C-5363) to procure an ORDALT 16817 Type “B” Kit for the
MK 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS), CG Class Modernization Program Baseline II
and VII upgrade, Modernization Installation and Check-out (INCO) Spares,
Modernization Depot Spares and Modernization Operating Space Item (OSI). Work will
be performed in Baltimore, Md. (50 percent) and Aberdeen, S.D. (50 percent), and is
expected to be completed by December 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the
end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C.,
is the contracting activity.

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 06:29 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 329-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 15, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Sgt. Christopher Ramirez, 34, of McAllen, Texas, died April 14 in Al
Anbar Province, Iraq, from injuries sustained during combat operations. Ramirez
was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry
Division, Fort Riley, Kan.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-15-2004, 06:39 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Wolfowitz: U.S. at Crossroads, But Signs Say 'We Will Win'
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2004 -- America is at a crossroads that is no less
dangerous than the threat of the Cold War, but will emerge victorious, Deputy
Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz said here today.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="225" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/2004041511a.jpg] available.
</font></table>

Wolfowitz was the keynote speaker at a luncheon honoring Paul H. Nitze, a
former colleague and a key architect of U.S. policy toward the Soviet Union.
Nitze, a 40-year public servant and former State Department employee, was a
principal author of the National Security Council strategic outline of U.S.
countermeasures against the Soviet threat.

Wolfowitz said America's new adversaries are even more dangerous than the
former Soviet Union was, but that despite the danger, it is a war America will
win.

The deputy defense secretary, who once served as dean of the Paul H. Nitze
School of International Studies at Johns Hopkins University, said that with the
Soviet Union, "we knew who controlled their military forces. We knew their
names, and we knew where to find them." America's new enemies, he said, hide
among the shadows, shifting positions and methods with the wind. The very
freedom they threaten can often be their ally, he added.

"As they go about their ugly business, they exploit the freedom of open
societies," Wolfowitz said. "We may not always know where they are or where
they operate. But in understanding our freedoms, they know a lot about us."

Wolfowitz said that today the United States faces an enemy who not only hates
freedom, but also hates life itself. He read a passage of a letter written by
Muslim extremist and al Qaeda leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi -- a Jordanian
national and convicted terrorist -- that calls for Muslims to become martyrs
and to kill Americans.

That kind of "fanatical ideology," he said, justifies why the United State must
continue its course of action in the Middle East. Furthermore, it shows why
nothing is more important than sustaining progress and budding democratic
movements taking place in Afghanistan and Iraq.

As the United States moves forward in Iraq, it must leave no doubt in the minds
of its enemies and the millions of Iraqis that "America is committed to nothing
less than victory and success," Wolfowitz said. "We are there and it is crucial
that we succeed."

When sovereignty is handed over to Iraq on June 30, Wolfowitz said, the U.S.
engagement will change, but the commitment will not. "We will stay in Iraq
until our job is done, and not a day more," he said, repeating President Bush's
message from an April 13 news conference.

The global war on terrorism will be, perhaps, even longer than the Cold War,
Wolfowitz said. "It will test our resolve, perhaps even more than the conflicts
of World War II," he added. But nonetheless, he said, the United States will do
whatever it takes to achieve victory.

"Victory will take time and require sacrifice," he said, again invoking the
president's words. "Yet we will do what's necessary, we will spend what is
necessary to achieve this essential victory in the war on terror, to promote
freedom and to make our nation more secure."

The Aspen Institute, an international nonprofit organization that works to
foster leadership ideas, values and dialogue on contemporary issues, sponsored
the luncheon.

Biography:
Deputy Defense Secretary Paul
Wolfowitz [/bios/wolfowitz_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
The Aspen Institute [http://www.aspeninstitute.org/]

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 07:50 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 330-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 16, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Frank K. Rivers, Jr., 23, of Woodbridge, Va., died April 14, in Mosul,
Iraq when he collapsed during physical training. Spc. Rivers was assigned to the
Army’s 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort
Lewis, Wash.

The incident is under investigation.

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 12:37 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Fallujah Standoff Can't Continue, CPA Official Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2004 * The standoff between U.S. and coalition forces and
insurgents at the Iraqi city of Fallujah can't continue much longer, the
Coalition Provisional Authority's chief spokesman said today in Baghdad.

In Fallujah, about 35 miles west of Baghdad, "our Marines have been on the
receiving end of shots and violence over the past week" since an April 9 cease-
fire went into effect, Dan Senor told reporters at a news conference.

Baathist-regime supporters, foreign terrorists and other malcontents in and
around Fallujah have been attacking since U.S. and coalition forces moved
toward the city to subdue those responsible for the March 31 killing and
debasement of four American contractors and the deaths of five soldiers killed
by an improvised explosive device.

Insurgents in Fallujah appear "to be strengthening their defensive position,"
Senor pointed out, adding, "There's only so long that this situation can
continue."

Senor said if the insurgents continue not to observe the cease-fire, the
Marines may need to resume offensive operations. "We want to minimize
bloodshed, He emphasized. "We want a peaceful resolution, but we can't do that
at the expense of our Marines."

Elsewhere in Iraq, U.S. soldiers are deployed about 100 miles south of Baghdad
around the city of Najaf to subdue militant Shiia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr,
wanted by the Iraqi government for the alleged murder of a fellow cleric last
year.

Sadr, who repeatedly has called for U.S. and coalition forces to leave Iraq,
controls a 3,000-to-6,000-member militia called the Mahdi army, which last week
had forcibly taken over several Iraqi cities. Such militias are outlawed in
Iraq, and several senior U.S. military officials have called for the
destruction of the Mahda army.

Subsequent discussions to peacefully resolve the situations in Fallujah and
Najaf, Senor noted, have yet to prove successful.

If discussions to peacefully resolve the Fallujah situation "don't bear fruit,"
Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt noted, then U.S. Marines are prepared to resume
combat operations to defeat the insurgents. Kimmitt, who accompanied the
briefing with Senor, is deputy operations director for Combined Joint Task
Force 7.

The military situation across Iraq remains relatively quiet, Kimmitt noted.
However, he pointed out that enemy forces continue to attack U.S. supply
convoys along roads leading to and from Baghdad.

There appears "to be a concerted effort on the part of the enemy to try to
interfere with our lines of communication (and) main supply routes," the
general explained, noting the U.S. military has "alternative methods to get
those supplies to our forces."

However, Kimmitt conceded that such enemy practices -* if sustained over an
extended period -* could have an adverse effect on the Iraqi economy.

"Fewer supplies are going to be able to get to the people of Baghdad and the
surrounding region," he noted, with the effect of raising prices. Kimmitt added
that reconstruction projects critical to Iraqi economic development could be
stalled.

Efforts to disrupt military supply lines "are clearly" aimed at the U.S. and
coalition forces, Kimmitt observed. However, he said, such practices would
actually "most harm the people of Iraq."

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 12:37 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Military Force May Be Next Option In Fallujah, Myers Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2004 -- Further military action may be necessary in the
city of Fallujah, where despite a cease-fire and strained negotiations,
insurgents still are shooting at Marines, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of
Staff said during an April 15 news conference in Baghdad.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers, in Baghdad to meet with coalition military
commanders, told reporters that although discussions in Fallujah are ongoing,
"I think we have to be prepared and prepare ourselves that there may be further
military action."

He said that negotiations in the city are ongoing. "We'll have to see how they
play out. They can't go on, I don't think in my mind as a military man,
forever," he said. "At some point, somebody has to make a decision on what
we're going to do, and we certainly can't rule out the use of force there,
again, depending on how the negotiations go."

The general also assured reporters there is "sufficient military force" to deal
with both the situation in Fallujah and resistance in the south around Najaf.
"That is not the issue, and we will deal with it," he said.

Myers, who was joined at the briefing by the Comined Joint Task Force 7
commander, Army Gen. Ricardo S. Sanchez, said Marines in Fallujah are obeying
the cease-fire, but are being fired upon.

"They can return fire in self-defense, which they do, but they're trying their
best to follow the rules of the cease-fire," he emphasized.

The focus in Fallujah has been on radical Shiia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, who is
wanted by Iraqi authorities and who Myers said is trying to disrupt the
stability in the city. "And if they have to kill innocent Iraqi men, women and
children, they'll do that," he said. "Certainly they'll attack the coalition;
they'll do other things that extremists and terrorists do. And it just can't be
permitted," he said.

He said the U.S., coalition and Iraqi forces are committed to ending the
attacks by Sadr's "militia and thugs" as well as by holdouts of Saddam
Hussein's regime and foreign fighters. Myers pointed out that nobody wants Sadr
brought to justice more than the Iraqi Governing Council and other Iraqi
authorities.

"This was not a Shiia uprising," Myers said. "Sadr is a marginalized figure,
and he's being marginalized more and more every day by his own actions. When
the Iraqi people know the story, the full story of how he used his militia to
kill Iraqis, I think they'll understand."

In an effort to tell the "full story," Sanchez said his forces are trying to
communicate with the Iraqi people that this is "not about the coalition forces
against the Iraqi people" and those responsible for the violence are attacking
the democratic institutions of the country.

"They're attacking the religious, the political and the security structures of
this country in an effort to take it back towards an oppressive era," Sanchez
said. "We're communicating that to the people."

Myers also spoke on the issue of troop rotation in Iraq, after news that some
20,000 troops will be held over in the theater for as much as three months. He
told reporters that he will rely on his military commanders on the ground to
make that determination, and emphasized the decision will be dictated by the
security situation in Iraq.

"The duration for that additional capability to be here in Iraq is to be
determined," he said. "It will depend on events here on the ground. But I think
what it shows is our resolve to see this situation through."

He said the Pentagon is looking at the next two rotations of forces into Iraq
and Afghanistan, and is wrestling with how to rotate forces in and out of those
theaters.

Meanwhile, Sanchez pointed out that the Pentagon never dissuaded him from
asking for additional troops if needed.

"When we have needed those forces, we have asked for them in that time frame,
and we have received the support that was necessary for us to execute our
mission here on the ground," he said.

Biographies:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
Lt. Gen. Ricardo
D. Sanchez [http://www.cjtf7.com/command-info/senior-leaders.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Joint Chiefs of Staff [http://www.dtic.mil/jcs/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 02:10 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: General: Marines Not Hampered by Rules of Engagement
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2004 * Marines surrounding the volatile Iraqi town of
Fallujah may be in an offensive operational pause, but that doesn't affect
their ability to defend themselves, a top U.S. Central Command officer said
today in Doha, Qatar.

Marines moved into the city west of Baghdad in force after four U.S.
contractors were killed and their bodies mutilated there March 31. Iraqi
government officials since have brokered a cease-fire.

A pause in offensive operations doesn't mean Marines can't act proactively to
deal with immediate threats, Marine Maj. Gen. John Sattler, CENTCOM's
operations director, said in a telephone briefing from CENTCOM's forward
headquarters in Doha with reporters in the Pentagon.

He said the Marines in the area have not been "hamstrung or hampered in any
way, shape or form" by their rules of engagement and don't have to wait until
fired upon to take action, as has been reported in some media outlets.

"If someone's setting up down the street and preparing to take you under fire
or set up a mortar position somewhere where you don't have direct fire upon
them, the Marines are able to go ahead and take some limited * as they see fit
* offensive action to prevent that," Sattler explained.

The general also said that coalition forces in the area are comfortable with
the level of intelligence information they're getting in the area and are
content to let the Iraqi Governing Council work to negotiate an end to the
tense situation in Fallujah.

He noted that he feels it's important to give the negotiations a chance to
succeed. "Keep in mind, our goal is not to capture the town of Fallujah,"
Sattler said. "Our goal is to go and free the town of Fallujah, to go in and
eliminate those fighters, foreign fighters, those extremists that are in the
town that have taken it away from those who reside there."

Garnering far less publicity than operations around Fallujah, Marines have
stepped up efforts to shut down Iraq's border region with Syria as a throughway
for foreign fighters and smugglers.

Sattler said efforts are particularly focused in an area known as "the rat
line," where foreign fighters were traveling through the countryside around
Qaim, near where the Euphrates River passes from Syria into Iraq.

"We had an extreme amount of success on the front side, meaning that we did
find, fix, and ultimately finish a number of cells that were out there, that
were facilitating this type of movement," he said.

He acknowledged the Marines suffered some casualties in the area, but said it
is much calmer in the past two weeks.

Part of the Marines' success in tightening the border region can be attributed
to their forethought in upping the number of troops they brought when they
replaced the Army's 82nd Airborne Division in the region.

"When (the Marines) went out and did their reconnaissance (before assuming
control of the region), they made a conscious decision to bring more so they
could, in fact, work that border region very hard," Sattler said.

He declined to disclose specific numbers, but estimated that the Marines had a
third again the number of troops the Army had covering the same region.

Biography:
Maj.
Gen. John F. Sattler [http://www.usmc.mil/genbios2.nsf/biographies/E77F2EC0FF1C0FCD8525680900479F1F?opendocument]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Military Force May Be Next
Option In Fallujah, Myers Says [/news/Apr2004/n04162004_200404162.html]
Fallujah Standoff Can't
Continue, CPA Official Says [/news/Apr2004/n04162004_200404161.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 03:03 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Mosul Security Forces Show Way Ahead for Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

MOSUL, Iraq, April 16, 2004 * The threat facing members of the coalition's Task
Force Olympia here remains the same, but the people responding to it are
Iraqis, not Americans.

Mosul, a northern city with Sunni, Shiia and Kurdish ethnic groups, was not
immune to recent disturbances. On the night of April 9, former regime elements
conducted "well-organized and dangerous" attacks against Iraqi government
buildings, said Army Brig. Gen. Carter Ham, commander of Task Force Olympia.

Like the rest of Iraq, residents of Mosul had seen what was happening in
Fallujah and had demonstrated. Unlike in the rest of the country, their
demonstrations remained peaceful. "That was due to the early involvement of
religious and government leaders, members of the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps and
the Iraqi Police," Ham said.

But when the attack came later that night, it was not Task Force Olympia's
Stryker combat vehicles that answered the call. Instead, the men of the Iraqi
Civil Defense Corps and the Iraqi police responded. "They stood strong," Ham
said. "It was those forces that repelled the attack."

The galvanizing force was the governor of the province and the city, Ham said.
"He never left the building, and his personal courage made a big difference,"
the general noted.

"The Iraqi people in Mosul got the message that here is a strong, democratic
leader with a competent security force." Ham said.

He pointed out that the Iraqi Security Forces had to call on U.S. forces to
help in only one incident that night, but all the heavy lifting was done by the
Iraqis.

Ham said it was Iraqi leadership that made the difference with the security
forces. He said he is very proud of them for the way they reacted.

The results in Mosul seem to prove Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Richard
B. Myers' contention that Iraqi leadership and a set Iraqi chain of command is
necessary for the Iraqi security forces to do well.

Myers said that during the recent demonstrations and riots, the Iraqi security
forces did very well in some locations and poorly in others * including some,
according to news reports, who refused direct orders. He said that having an
Iraqi chain of command would reinforce the reality that the security forces are
fighting for their country and not to prop up a dictatorship.

Biography:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 05:03 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: U.S., British Leaders Say They Won't Abandon Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2004 * The top U.S. and British leaders today pledged
their nations' continued support for a free and democratic Iraq despite all
obstacles.

President George Bush, accompanied by British Prime Minister Tony Blair at a
White House press conference, told reporters he and Blair are resolved to stand
fast with Iraqis and will not "abandon them in their hour of need."

"The prime minister and I have made our choice," Bush declared. "Iraq will be
free. Iraq will be independent. Iraq will be a peaceful nation.

"And, we will not waver in the face of fear and intimidation."

Bush acknowledged the upsurge of violence directed against U.S. and coalition
forces in Iraq, noting, "The past few weeks have been hard and the days ahead
will surely bring their own challenges."

Recent attacks on U.S. and coalition forces in the Fallujah region west of
Baghdad and against troops serving 100 miles south near Najaf, Bush said, are
part of "an attempted power grab by extremists and terrorists."

The U.S.-led coalition, Bush vowed, "will not allow Iraq's future to be stolen
by a violent few," adding Iraq's people aren't eager "to trade one tyrant for
another."

The president praised the courage of the Iraqi people and pledged the June 30
transfer of authority to a sovereign Iraqi government "will be kept." On that
date "the Coalition Provisional Authority will cease to exist," Bush said,
while "coalition forces will remain in Iraq to help the new government
succeed."

America and Britain have stood "side by side" since the Sept. 11, 2001, terror
attacks, Blair observed, noting the two countries are also united to see
democracy established in Iraq.

"Our plan to do this is clear and we shall see it through," the British prime
minister declared.

Blair then outlined some key points of U.S.-coalition political and military
strategy in Iraq:

<li type=disc>Stand firm, "to do what it takes to win this struggle."

<li type=disc>Hold "absolutely," to the June 30 timetable of transferring
sovereignty to the Iraqi people.

<li type=disc>Redouble efforts to enable Iraqis to take increased
responsibility for their security and law and order.

<li type=disc>Continue reconstruction and encourage investment across the
country to benefit all Iraqis.

<li type=disc>Work with the United Nations for it to have a "central role in
developing the program and machinery for political transition" to Iraqi
democracy.

"And, we will seek a new U.N. Security Council resolution to embody the
political and security way forward" in Iraq, Blair said.

Bush praised the efforts of U.N. special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi, who visited
Iraq with other U.N. specialists to investigate ways to form an interim Iraqi
government after the CPA disbands and to assemble the necessary infrastructure
for upcoming elections in January.

Brahimi, slated to report his findings to U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan,
has "identified a way forward to establishing an interim government that is
broadly acceptable to the Iraqi people," Bush noted.

"Our coalition partners," the president continued, "will continue to work with
the U.N. to prepare for nationwide elections that will choose a new government
in January of 2005."

Related Articles:
Voter Education Key For Iraqi
Elections, U.N. Official Says [/news/Apr2004/n04152004_200404158.html]
U.N. Official Sketches Out
Iraq Government After June 30 [/news/Apr2004/n04142004_200404146.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Transcript of
Bush-Blair White House Press Conference [http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/04/20040416-4.html]
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org]
United Nations [http://www.un.org]

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 05:03 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Coalition Achieving Success in Horn of Africa
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2004 * Intelligence successes in U.S. Central Command
have led to the capture of suspected terrorists and interdictions of drug
shipments off the Horn of Africa, a senior CENTCOM official said today.

Service members of Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa have worked closely
with local governments and with CENTCOM's maritime component to combat
terrorism in the region, Marine Maj. Gen. John F. Sattler, CENTCOM's operations
director, said during a telephone interview with Pentagon reporters from the
command's forward headquarters in Doha, Qatar.

Sattler didn't give specific numbers, but said terrorists have been "brought to
justice" by host-nation authorities. He called this the "perfect solution" from
coalition officials' point of view.

"That's the way it should be," he said. "It's their country. It's their
sovereign territory."

U.S. service members have been in the Horn of Africa as part of the war on
terrorism for more than a year. Their mission is to work with local governments
and military forces to enhance those country's counterterrorism capabilities,
share intelligence and perform civic-assistance projects, Sattler explained.

Coalition forces are working with the militaries of Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia,
Eritrea, Djibouti and Yemen. The task force headquarters is at Camp Lemonier,
Djibouti.

Forces are working particularly hard to cut off lines of communication from the
Arabian Peninsula across the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. Intelligence in this
arena has led to the capture of suspected terrorists, Sattler said.

He said "a number" of suspected terrorists have been taken from dhows,
traditional fishing vessels in the region, and "pushed into the interrogation
system because of their ties to al Qaeda," but gave no other details.

In interdicting these dhows, officials have captured several suspected drug
dealers and turned them over to law-enforcement authorities of the local
nations.

"So we have been successful when we've stopped those dhows," Sattler said.

Biography:
Maj. Gen. John F.
Sattler [http://www.usmc.mil/genbios2.nsf/biographies/E77F2EC0FF1C0FCD8525680900479F1F?opendocument]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Combined Task Force Horn
of Africa [http://www.cjtfhoa.centcom.mil/default.asp]

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 05:04 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Policy Official Explains Terror War Strategy
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2004 * The U.S. strategy in the global war on terror
boils down to changing the way terrorists live, rather than changing the way
U.S. citizens live, the undersecretary of defense for policy said in an April
14 speech in Chicago.

Douglas J. Feith spoke at the University of Chicago's student-run political
union.

He said the aim of the war on terror, as defined by President Bush, is to
"defeat terrorism as a threat to our way of life as a free and open society."
This, Feith said, meant the nation no longer could rely solely, or even
primarily, on a defensive posture.

"If we tried to do so," he said, "we would have to clamp down drastically
across America, intruding grossly on the privacy rights and other civil
liberties of Americans. As terrorist attacks occurred, U.S. officials would
continually be under pressure to move toward police-state tactics — to
sacrifice our freedom and change our way of life."

The alternative, he said, is striking terrorists abroad, where they do much of
their recruiting, training, equipping and planning. "Given that our aim is to
preserve our society's liberties, we have no alternative to a strategy of
offense," Feith said. "In other words, we concluded that in dealing with the
terrorists we had either to change the way we live, or change the way they
live."

The terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, showed that threats previously
dismissed as wild speculation or only remotely possible had become the new
reality.

"Before 9/11, terrorism was commonly viewed as political * an action intended
to influence or persuade," Feith explained. "Many discussed terrorism as a form
of 'political theater,' a way that terrorist groups used shocking actions to
call attention * sympathetic attention * to a cause.

"According to that view," he continued, "the terrorists, adhering to
Machiavelli's dictum that it's better to be feared than loved, nonetheless
still wished to avoid being hated."

That view could hardly explain the Sept. 11 attacks, he said. "The terrorists
who killed 3,000 ordinary people at the World Trade Center, where 10 times that
number worked on a daily basis, would have been pleased to have killed them all
* or many times more than that, if they had had the means to do so," Feith
said.

He offered three possible motives for al Qaeda and other terrorists who target
the United States today: suicide attackers hoping to obtain benefits in the
next world, a nihilistic desire for death and destruction, and a hope of
destroying our nation's unity and sense of purpose, ultimately collapsing
political order and making resistance impossible.

He said the goal of defeating the United States may seem preposterous, "but it
may seem achievable to those who credit the Soviet Union's collapse to their
own resistance in Afghanistan, not to mention as a manifestation of divine
favor for themselves."

At the root of the U.S. strategy in the war on terror, Feith said, is the
president's bold and radical departure from previous policy. Feith cited four
terrorist acts against the United States to illustrate his point: the 1993
first World Trade Center bombing, the 1996 bombing of Khobar Towers in Saudi
Arabia, the 1998 destruction of U.S. embassies in East Africa and the 2000
bombing of the USS Cole in Yemen.

"The U.S. government's response in those cases was to use the FBI to
investigate," Feith said. "Our government was looking for individuals to
arrest, extradite and prosecute in criminal courts. President Bush broke with
that practice * and with that frame of mind * when he decided that 9/11 meant
that we are at war. He decided that the U.S. would respond not with the FBI and
U.S. attorneys, but with our armed forces and every instrument of U.S. national
power."

Feith said he thought the decision to depart from past practice was
"momentous," and that it showed proper comprehension of the problem.

"It looks obvious in retrospect," he said, "but that's often the case with
grand insights. At the time the president decided to respond to 9/11 by going
to war, he was departing radically and boldly from many years of a different
policy."

Defining the enemy, Feith said, became a key question for policy makers. "The
enemy is not a state or group of states; it's not a traditional type of enemy
we have faced in war," he said. "The enemy is not a discrete, hierarchical
organization either. Rather, the enemy is a far-flung network of terrorist
organizations and their state and non-state sponsors.

"Terrorist organizations rely on state sponsors for safe haven, funds, weapons
and other types of support," he continued. "We cannot win the war on terrorism
if we do not cut off state support for terrorist organizations."

The danger of weapons of mass destruction falling into the hands of terrorists
was another essential part of policy makers' thinking in forming the nation's
strategy, a consideration that took on "greatly intensified urgency" after the
Sept. 11 attacks, Feith said.

"The terrorists who destroyed the World Trade Center would gleefully have
killed 10, a hundred or a thousand times the number of victims on 9/11 if they
could have -- if they had had access, for example, to biological or nuclear
weapons," he said. "It's a significant coincidence that the list of key state
sponsors of terrorism overlaps so extensively with the list of problem states
that are pursuing WMD capabilities."

Therefore, he said, the main strategic threat in the war on terrorism is the
nexus among terrorist organizations, their state sponsors and weapons of mass
destruction.

The U.S. strategy for confronting the threat, Feith said, is "to organize and
help lead international efforts to deny terrorist groups systematically what
they need to operate and survive." The terrorists' needs, he added, are safe
havens, leaders, finances, ideological support and access to targets, and
weapons * especially weapons of mass destruction.

The United States has taken three useful, though not entirely distinct, types
of action to implement the strategy, Feith said: disrupting and attacking
terrorist networks, protecting the homeland and countering ideological support
for terrorism in what he called a battle of ideas.

"The war on terrorism will never end if all we do is disrupt and attack
terrorist networks, because while we are doing so, new terrorists are being
recruited and indoctrinated -- probably faster than anyone on our side can
capture or kill them," Feith said. "If we're going to avoid placing ourselves
on an ever-accelerating treadmill, our strategy must aim to stem the flow of
people into the ranks of the terrorists. Doing this requires a focus on the
widespread ideological support for terrorism."

As precedents, Feith noted that fascism and Nazism were discredited and the
collapse of the Soviet empire caused communist totalitarianism to lose most of
its following in the 20th century. A 50-year campaign led by the British in the
19th century, he added, changed the way the world thought about the slave trade.

"As President Bush has said, the world should view terrorism as it views the
slave trade, piracy on the high seas and genocide -- activities that no
respectable person condones, much less supports," Feith said.

To win the battle of ideas, he said, the United States is working to de-
legitimize terrorism and support the success of models of moderation,
especially in the Muslim world.

"The ideological struggle within the war on terrorism is in large part a civil
war between extremists and their opponents in the Muslim world," Feith
explained. "In the war on terrorism, the U.S. is not fighting the world of
Islam. On the contrary, we are allied with the many millions of Muslims who do
not want to be dominated by the kind of extremists who follow Osama bin Laden.

"Democratic reform and the success of democratic institutions in the Arab world
and the Muslim world generally are essential parts of the strategy to defeat
terrorism as a threat to our own freedom," he said.

Feith noted that in the two and a half years since the global war on terror
began, the United States and its coalition partners have:

<li type=disc>Ousted the Taliban regime and supported the new government in
Afghanistan;

<li type=disc>Provided training in counterterrorist operations to local forces
in the Philippines, Yemen, Colombia, the former Soviet republic of Georgia and
elsewhere;

<li type=disc>Fostered international cooperation on law enforcement,
intelligence, interdiction of terrorist finances and maritime interdiction
operations in the Mediterranean Sea, off the Horn of Africa, in the Pacific and
elsewhere;

<li type=disc>Killed or captured terrorist leaders and key operatives,
including two-thirds of al Qaeda's known leadership;

<li type=disc>Liberated Iraq from the Saddam Hussein regime and worked to
launch Iraqis on the path to freedom; and

<li type=disc>Induced the Libyan government to declare, dismantle and abandon
its programs for and stockpiles of weapons of mass destruction.

Operation Iraqi Freedom, Feith said, has eliminated a safe haven for
terrorists. Noting that Saddam encouraged Palestinian suicide bombings by
offering to pay $25,000 to the bombers' families, he said the Iraq operation
also has eliminated a source of financial and other types of support for
terrorists.

Feith said Iraq no longer is a possible source of WMD technology, materials and
training for terrorists. "By the way, this point is not negated by our not yet
having found Iraqi stockpiles of WMD or the possibility that Saddam secretly
destroyed all the stockpiles before the war," he added.

Feith said much remains to be done in Iraq, and he acknowledged that the United
States has had "a rough week or two" there. "Our losses weigh heavily," he
said, "but there is no cost-free option for America in Iraq."

He cited the "tenacity, creativity, courage and willingness to sacrifice" that
U.S. and coalition forces have shown in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere in the
war on terrorism.

"Among our forces," he said, "there's a phrase that has become common as a
byword: 'Failure is not an option.' Those forces give us protection, insight
and inspiration. Failure is not an option."

Biography:
Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Douglas J.
Feith [/bios/feith_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
U.S., British Leaders Say They
Won't Abandon Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04162004_200404167.html]
Wolfowitz: U.S. at
Crossroads, But Signs Say 'We Will Win' Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04152004_2004041511.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
Transcript
of Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Douglas J. Feith's Speech to the
Political Union, University of Chicago, April 14, 2004 [http://www.dod.mil/cgi-bin/dlprint.cgi?http://www.dod.mil/speeches/2004/sp20040414-0261.html]

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 08:10 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Poignant Reminder at the American Embassy in Kabul
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

KABUL, Afghanistan, April 16, 2004 * The 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) has
left a reminder to the Americans working here why what they do is so important.

On a plaque next to the flagpole in front of the U.S. Embassy here is written:

"In honor of the victims of 11 September 2001
The men and women who have given their lives in the War against Terrorism, and,
The Enduring Freedom that will survive."

Members of the unit spearheaded the liberation of Kabul from the Taliban. On
Dec. 2, 2001, soon after occupying the grounds of the embassy, the Green Berets
buried a piece of the World Trade Center at the flagpole.

The war on terrorism continues, and Afghanistan is one area where that war is
being won. Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers visited
Afghanistan as part of a trip to the U.S. Central Command area of operations.
The chairman visited leaders of Bahrain and Kuwait and troops and commanders in
Iraq before coming here.

Myers is gathering information he'll use to advise the president and the
defense secretary. He said he finds it useful to visit the areas where U.S.
troops are involved to get a feel for the command climate.

Following meetings with Combined Forces Command Afghanistan chief Army Lt. Gen.
David Barno and U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, Myers said
that he was encouraged by the signs of progress since his last visit in
December. The chairman said earlier that each time he comes to Afghanistan he
sees more stores open, more traffic on the streets, more people out and about.

He told reporters at the Kabul airport that the United States remains committed
to rebuilding Afghanistan and defeating terrorists. There are now roughly
15,000 U.S. military personnel in the country now, although 2,000 members of
the 10th Mountain Division are getting ready to depart soon. Those troops are
joined by 1,800 members of coalition nations and 6,500 members of the NATO-led
International Security Assistance Force.

The American force contains Army, Air Force, Marines and Navy personnel. Just
over 2,000 Marines just arrived in the country. The 1st Brigade of the 25th
Infantry Division from Hawaii has replaced members of the 10th Mountain
Division, who will return to Fort Drum, N.Y.

Myers said the Afghan National Army is doing very well. It responds to the
national government, and the people see it as a protection rather than a
threat. This is a step forward in a land plagued by 30 years of factional
unrest, occupation by the Soviet Union and a civil war. "It mirrors a greater
shift in the attitude of the people of Afghanistan: People can finally see past
the Taliban and see that there is a future in Afghanistan," said a senior Joint
Staff official traveling with the chairman.

With elections coming in September, American forces have ramped up their
presence in the country. "We're anticipating the elections and trying to ensure
no violence as (Afghanistan) heads towards elections," Myers said. "(U.S.
presence" is a little stronger and beefier than we've been."

The Afghan National Army is pulling more and more weight as more soldiers are
trained. There are currently about 9,600 ANA soldiers , with 7,000 trained and
operational. They are doing as great job, said Myers. A thousand ANA soldiers
went to Herat in the western part of the country last week to quell violence,
he said. They were successful. Part of that, the chairman said, is because they
are connected to and represent the national government. "They know where to
salute," the chairman said.

He said the troops levels in Iraq will not affect the troop levels for
Afghanistan.

Finally, Myers said he was very pleased with the cooperation the coalition has
received from Pakistan. The government has launched troops into the tribal
areas of the country * areas where Taliban remnants and al Qaeda fighters are
hiding. Both countries working the border will give the Taliban or al Qaeda no
rest, he said.

Biographies:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
Ambassador to
Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad [http://usembassy.state.gov/afghanistan/wwwhbiozal.html]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Terrorists Between Rock, Hard
Place in Afghanistan [/news/Apr2004/n04162004_200404165.html]
Military Force May Be Next
Option in Fallujah, Myers Says [/news/Apr2004/n04162004_200404162.html]
Myers, Abizaid Hold Strategy
Session in Baghdad [/news/Apr2004/n04142004_200404149.html]
Myers Visits Italian Coalition
Members in Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04142004_200404148.html]
Myers Meets with Kuwaiti
Leaders, Thanks Them for Support [/news/Apr2004/n04142004_200404147.html]
Myers Explains U.S. Position
in Iraq to Arab Audience [/news/Apr2004/n04132004_200404133.html]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
5th Special Forces Group
(Airborne) [http://www.campbell.army.mil/5thsfg.htm]
25th Infantry Division [http://www.25idl.army.mil/]
10th Mountain Division [http://www.drum.army.mil]
International Security
Assistance Force [http://www.afnorth.nato.int/ISAF/index.htm]

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 08:11 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Tiger Woods Trains, Hosts Golf Clinic at Fort Bragg
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

FORT BRAGG, N.C., April 16, 2004 -- Golf superstar Tiger Woods traded in his
green jacket for an Army battle dress uniform and his golf spikes for combat
boots this week to follow in his father's footsteps and train with the U.S.
Army Special Operations Command.

<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="right" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> <TD
align="left">high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/2004041610a.jpg]
available.</font></table>

The world's top-ranked golfer, whose father is a retired lieutenant colonel who
served in the Army's Special Forces, said he was "amazed to see how dedicated
everyone is" and praised the contributions the soldiers make every day to the
nation's security.

Woods said that in many respects, the physical and mental demands of the
military training he received are similar to those he experiences as a
professional golfer. "You have to be mentally ready," he said. "The only
difference is that (the soldiers are) putting their lives on the line. I'm not.
They're doing it for our country and to keep us safe, and they are to be
commended."

Woods arrived at Pope Air Force Base in his private jet April 12, one day after
playing in the Masters Tournament in Augusta, Ga., to take on what some might
consider an even bigger challenge: four days of Army special operations
training.

He called the weapons training he received "an absolute blast." His father,
retired Lt. Col. Earl Woods, said his son learned on the sniper course
something that could have a direct impact on his golf game: that his left eye
is his dominant eye. This, he said, will help his son with his "plumbing" on
the course to determine where the ball will go.

The junior Woods said the four-mile run he did in a 400-man formation, singing
cadence "at the top of my lungs" was a far cry from what he'd ever experienced
running solo with his MP3 player to train for his golf game.

He also received close-quarters combat training and trained in a vertical wind
tunnel used to train paratroopers.

But the highlight of the training experience, Woods said, was two tandem jumps
on April 15 with the Army's parachute team, the Golden Knights. "It was an
experience I'll never forget," he said. "I was so excited, I couldn't wait to
go." Woods described the jumps, from 13,500 feet, as "feeling like you're
floating, but at 120 miles an hour."

Earl Woods joked that his son was "like a little boy" who, as soon as he
finished the first jump, asked, 'Can I go again?'"

Today, wrapping up his visit here, Woods hosted the Tiger Woods Foundation's
30th Junior Golf Clinic at the post's Stryker Golf Course. The foundation
supports community-based programs that promote health, education and welfare
for children.

The two-hour clinic featured one-on-one golf instruction to 84 military
children, most from Fort Bragg. The top eight junior golfers received personal
instruction from Woods.

Among them was Gretchen McLean, 13-year-old daughter of Chief Warrant Officer
Jim McLean of the 1st Special Warfare Training Unit. With about four years of
golfing experience under her belt, Gretchen said she hoped to get some insight
into what many say separates Tiger Woods from the pack among professional
golfers: his ability, in Gretchen's words, "to zone everything out" and focus
on the game when under pressure.

Gretchen admitted that she was "so nervous that I was surprised I got the ball
to stay on the tee" during her session with Woods, but said she was, in fact,
able to "clear everything out of my mind" to concentrate on the ball. The
result, she said, was an extra 25 yards to her drive. "I think it's going to
make a big difference," she beamed.

Also selected for one-on-one instruction from Woods was Trevis Dowdy, a 16-
year-old from Clio, S.C., whose father, Sgt. 1st Class Jerry Dowdy, is deployed
to Iraq with the South Carolina National Guard's A Battery, 3rd Battalion, 178th
Field Artillery.

"It was awesome, the experience of a lifetime," Dowdy said. His father, also a
golfer, had called earlier in the morning from his base 40 miles south of
Baghdad to wish his son good luck.

After the clinic, Woods participated in an exhibition for more than 4,000
members of the Fort Bragg community. Other events were a performance by trick
shot artist Dennis Walters and a jump by the Golden Knights.

Woods's father, who first trained at Fort Bragg in 1963 following a tour in
Vietnam and was assigned to a Special Forces unit here before leaving for
another tour in 1970, joined his son at the clinic and exhibition.

The senior Woods said "it's still too early" to assess the impact of his son's
Fort Bragg experience. "It hasn't sunk in yet," he said. "It's like being in
the forest. You're too close to the trees to see the forest." Still, he said,
he expects the training will give his son "a better appreciation of teamwork
and of being a member of a team and how important a team is."

He said he hoped his son got a sense of how men and women in uniform "look out
for each other, support each other and love each other" * something he said "is
not prevalent on the PGA tour."

Earl Woods said he used his military training to instill in Tiger the
discipline and focus that has turned him into a world-renowned golfer. Woods
said his son "was always inquisitive about the training I put him through,"
particularly the "mental-toughness training," and "wanted to know where that
came from."

Tiger Woods said his exposure to the military training his father experienced
"sheds a whole new light" on his father's golf instruction methods. Earl Woods
said his son's interest in exploring the military firsthand "means a great deal
to me," especially because it was conducted at his former training ground,
though he said he's "awed by the post and its size" since he was here about 40
years ago.

"I'm very proud of Tiger for supporting our troops and honoring the sacrifice
they and their families make for our country," Earl Woods said.

Military family members, too, expressed appreciation that Woods took time from
his busy schedule to spend time with them.

"It's amazing that a man like him would make time to run a clinic like this at
Fort Bragg," said Command Sgt. Maj. Keith Wilbur from the 18th Aviation Brigade,
whose son, Keith, received personal instruction from Tiger Woods. "It shows
that he cares and is concerned."

Tiger Woods said his experience to military training has reinforced his deep
respect for the men and women in uniform. "It's an honor to walk in my father's
footsteps by training with the service men and women at Fort Bragg," he said.
"It's an experience I will never forget."

Related Site:
Fort Bragg, N.C. [http://www.bragg.army.mil/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

2004041610b.jpg Golfer Tiger Woods offers one-on-one instruction to Keith
Wilbur, son of Command Sgt. Maj. Keith Wilbur of Headquarters, 18th Aviation
Brigade, at Fort Bragg, N.C., April 16. Photo by Donna Miles

2004041610b_hr.jpg High resolution photo.

Seoulstriker

04-16-2004, 08:11 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Friday Apr. 16, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 332-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 16, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Friday, April 16, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Friday, April 16, 2004

-CONTRACTS-

AIR FORCE

Lockheed Martin Corp., Littleton, Colo., and Northrop Grumman Space Mission Systems
Corp., Redondo Beach, Calif., are being awarded a $220,000,000 cost-plus fixed-fee
contract to provide for the Space Based Radar (SBR) Concept Development effort. The
SBR program will provide global persistent intelligence, surveillance, and
reconnaissance through delivery of Surface Moving Target Indication, Synthetic
Aperture Radar imaging, High Resolution Terrain information, and derived products
for use by DOD and intelligence community users. The Concept Development effort will
consist of each contractor developing multiple candidate architectures for an SBR
system. These architectures will be reviewed by the government at an Alternate
System Review (ASR). After ASR, each contractor will select a single solution set
for further development into a SBR system design. This design/development work will
culminate in a system design review (SDR) of both designs. SBR will be followed by a
source selection for a follow-on contract to design, develop, test, produce, and
deploy Increment One of the SBR system. At this time, $30,500,000 has been obligated
to both contractors. This work will be complete by April 2006. Solicitation began
January 2004. The Lockheed Martin effort will be performed at Lockheed Martin,
Littleton, Colo., and other locations. The Northrop Grumman effort will be performed
at Northrop Grumman, Redondo Beach, Calif., and other locations. We will obligate
$30.5M to Lockheed Martin and $30.0M to Northrop Grumman. This work will be complete
by April 2006. Solicitation began January 2004. The Headquarters Space and Missile
Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif., is the contracting activity
(FA8820-04-C-0001 and 0002).

Trex Enterprise Corp., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $25,000,000 cost-plus
fixed-fee contract. The objective of the Satellite Active Imaging National Testbed
(SAINT) program is to design, fabricate, and demonstrate an optical imaging
prototype system testbed that provides images of satellites. The various approaches
to provide moderate to high-resolution images of Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth
Orbit (MEO), Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO) and Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO) satellites
shall be evaluated. At this time, $1,800,000 of the funds have been obligated.
This work will be complete by April 2009. Solicitation began February 2004 and
negotiations were completed April 2004. Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., is the
contracting activity (FA9451-04-D-0300).

Lockheed Martin Information Systems, Orlando, Fla., is being awarded a $15,201,481
firm fixed price contract modification to provide for Advanced Targeting Pods,
containers, pylons, warranty, spares, and associated support. The mission involves
the Air Force (Air Combat Command) and the Air National Guard. The major objective
of the program is to acquire state-of-the-art targeting pods to support the F-16 and
F-15 aircraft. Total funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by
December 2005. Negotiations were completed April 2004. The Headquarters
Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the
contracting activity (F33657-01-D-2029, 0020).

Insight Technology Incorporated, Londonderry, N.H., is being awarded a $13,007,796
firm fixed price contract to provide for 255 each Block 1 Panoramic Night Vision
Goggles and associated support equipment adapters. Insight Technology will perform
this effort in Londonderry, N.H; and at ITT Night Vision, Roanoke, Va. Total funds
have been obligated. This work will be complete by October 2005. Wright-Patterson
Air Force Base, is the contracting activity (FA8607-04-C-2752).

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Rolling Meadows, Ill., is being awarded a
$12,600,516 cost reimbursement and cost-plus fixed-fee contract modification to
provide for Electronic Systems Test Set Program Extended Contractor Transition
Support (CTS). This modification is a follow-on effort to previous CTS effort that
will provide the means to maintain equipment and sustaining engineering. Major
tasks to be performed for Extended CTS are hardware and software maintenance,
Technical Order Maintenance, Technical investigation of Deficiency Reports,
resolution of parts obsolescence, technical support, and on-site support. At this
time, $3,788,544 of the funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by
September 2005. Negotiations were completed March 2004. The Headquarters
Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the
contracting activity (F41608-93-C-0064, P00168).

ARMY

Caddell Construction Co. Inc., Montgomery, Ala., was awarded on April 15, 2004, a
$35,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction for a whole
neighborhood renewal. Work will be performed at Fort Knox, Ky., and is expected to
be completed by Dec. 30, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. There were 155 bids solicited on Jan. 6, 2004, and two bids
were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the
contracting activity (W912QR-04-C-0011).

Tiklgaq Engineering Services L.L.C.*, Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on April 15,
2004, a $16,655,628 firm-fixed-price contract for renovation of the Central Heat and
Power Plant. Work will be performed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, and is expected to
be completed by Oct. 30, 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on Jan. 29, 2004.
The U.S. Army Engineer District, Elmendorf, Alaska, is the contracting activity
(W911KB-04-C-0014).

Boeing Co., Ridley Park, Pa., was awarded on April 15, 2004, a $7,781,032
modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for 26 Rotary Wing Heads. Work will be
performed in Ridley Park, Pa., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 7, 2006.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a
sole source contract initiated on Feb. 2, 2004. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile
Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (DAAH23-03-G-0012).

Raytheon Co., Bedford, Mass., was awarded on April 15, 2004, a $6,622,227
modification to a cost-plus-award-fee contract for FY04 PATRIOT Engineering
Services. Work will be performed in Burlington, Mass. (12%), Huntsville, Ala. (1%),
Andover, Mass. (2%), Tewksbury, Mass. (71%), El Paso, Texas (1%), Bedford, Mass.
(12%), Orlando, Fla. (1%), and is expected to be completed by Jan. 9, 2009.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a
sole source contract initiated on Aug. 26, 2003. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile
Command, Redstone, Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-04-C-0020).

General Dynamics, Burlington, Vt., was awarded on April 14, 2004, a $1,837,448
increment as part of a $31,884,653 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Research and
Development in support of the Lightweight Family of Weapons. Work will be performed
in Burlington, Vt., and is expected to be completed by April 12, 2007. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown
number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Sept. 23, 2003, and 11 bids were
received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Picatinny Arsenal,
Ala., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-04-C-1086).

AAI Corp., Cockeysville, Md., was awarded on April 14, 2004, a $1,168,253 increment
as part of a $23,901,163 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Research and Development
in support of the Lightweight Family of Weapons. Work will be performed in
Cockeysville, Md., and is expected to be completed by April 12, 2007. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown
number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Sept. 23, 2003, and 11 bids were
received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Picatinny Arsenal,
Ala., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-04-C-1085).
-== ==-
NAVY

Raytheon Systems Co., McKinney, Texas, is being awarded a $17,375,000
firm-fixed-price job order under previously awarded basic ordering agreement
(N00164-00-G-0007) for eight Multi-spectral Targeting System (MTS) "B" infrared
systems for the Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UMV). MTS is a forward-looking
infrared system for the U.S. Air Force. The system provides increased visibility
and tracking for the Predatory UMV. Work will be performed in McKinney, Texas, and
is expected to be completed by December 2005. Contract funds will expire at the end
of the current fiscal year. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division,
Crane, Ind., is the contracting activity.

The Whiting-Turner Contracting Co., Baltimore, Md., is being awarded $8,295,000 for
firm-fixed price Task Order 0031 under an indefinite-quantity multiple award
construction contract for design and construction of the Marine Corps Reserve
Training Center, Quantico. The aggregate area of the training center is 4067 square
meters and the vehicle maintenance facility is 521 square meters. The project also
includes a new covered wash rack, demolition of two buildings, relocation of two
above-ground tanks, landscaping and other site work. Work will be performed in
Quantico, Va., and is expected to be completed by July 2005. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic contract was
competitively procurement with 60 proposals solicited, 24 offers received, and award
made to multiple contractors on Aug. 19, 1999. The basic total contract amount for
all contractors is not to exceed $500,000,000 (base period and four option years).
The multiple contractors (five in number) may be solicited to compete for task
orders under the terms and conditions of the existing contract. Three proposals
were received for this task order. The Engineering Field Activity Chesapeake, Naval
Facilities Engineering Command, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity
(N62477-99-D-0019).

-DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AGENCY-

The Defense Information Systems Agency has awarded three multiple year contracts to
procure fiber optic infrastructure to help transform the Department of Defense's
Global Information Grid (GIG). The contracts are firm fixed-price with a potential
value of roughly $55 million for implementation and $19 million for life cycle
support. This action does not involve Foreign Military Sales. The requirement was
published in FebBizOpps in October 2003 and resulted in receipt of ten offers.
Offers were reduced to seven when, after initial evaluation, all portions of the
requirement were set-aside for small business in accordance with provision M.1 of
the RFP. The goal of the GIG-BE is to provide a survivable, secure infrastructure
for the Department of Defense. Thus specific details of the awards and the vendors
involved will not be released to the public.

-DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY-

Gossner Foods Inc. *(Woman Owned Small Business), Logan, Utah, is being awarded a
$40,478,116 fixed price with economic price adjustment and indefinite quantity type
of contract for ultra high temperature milk for the U.S. Army. Performance
completion date is expected to be April 15, 2005. Contract funds will expire at the
end of this fiscal year. There were five proposals solicitation and two responded.
The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia,
Pa. (SP0300-04-D-Z211).

US Foodservice, Lexington, S.C., is being awarded a $30,000,000 firm fixed price
with indefinite quantity type of contract for prime vendor food and beverage support
for the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps and Bamberg Job
Corps Center. Performance completion date is expected to be June 18, 2005.
Contract funds will expire at the end of this fiscal year. There were 49 proposals
solicitation and four responded. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply
Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM300-04-D-3057).

* Small Business

Seoulstriker

04-17-2004, 07:28 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Situation in Fallujah Unchanged; Delegation Seeks Resolution
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Rudi Williams
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 17, 2004 -- A week after coalition forces unilaterally
suspended offensive military operations in Fallujah, the overall situation in
and around the city remains unchanged, a coalition spokesman said today at a
Baghdad news conference.

"Provocative attacks are expected to continue in Fallujah despite the
observance of a unilateral suspension of offensive operations," said Army Brig.
Gen. Mark Kimmitt, deputy operations director for Combined Joint Task Force 7.
"Anti-coalition forces in Fallujah continue to use local mosques for weapons
storage. They're building roadblocks in the city and continue preparations for
renewed fighting."

The general said the fighters have taken over many homes, forcing out those
residents while others remain barricaded in their homes. He also pointed out
that a number of cities outside Fallujah still harbor remnants of anti-
coalition forces.

In the past 24 hours all CJTF 7 elements continued conducting offensive
operations. Attacks against Iraqi civilians, Iraqi security forces and
coalition forces remain at about two times recent norms, Kimmitt said.

He said the northern zone of operations remains relatively calm. This includes
a decrease in attacks against convoys over the past 24 hours. But Kimmitt said
reasons exist to believe enemy forces still intend to damage or destroy more
road infrastructure.

He noted that Iraqi security forces are visible throughout Mosul and are
manning critical sites. Insurgents in that area launched mortar attacks on
coalition facilities, wounding eight soldiers and two civilians.

"Nine of the 10 wounded have returned to duty and one remains in the hospital
in stable condition," Kimmitt said.

Multinational Division in the central-south area remains stable, and attacks in
Karbala have decreased. Anti-coalition fighters attacked an Iraqi police
station with small-arms fire. There were no reported injuries, and one
individual was captured, Kimmitt said.

In the northern-central zone, there has been a decrease in enemy activity over
the past 24 hours with only nine attacks throughout the zone. "This lull in
activity may be collated to the number of enemy casualties during last week's
engagements," the general noted.

Enemy fighters near Samarra attacked coalition forces with an antitank mine and
small-arms fire combined with an improvised explosive device.

Small-arms fire erupted against coalition forces near Kirkuk, an Iraqi police
service officer's house, was bombed and a bomb was found at a second officer's
house. No casualties occurred at either home.

Coalition forces received information leading to the capture of one individual
using a water tower as a position to fire rockets. Coalition forces also
detained a suspected weapons dealer and two associates.

Outside Najaf, the coalition continued to seek out and destroy anti-coalition
forces.

"Anti-coalition forces attacked a coalition patrol with small-arms fire last
night on the east side of the Euphrates River," Kimmitt noted. "The engagement
resulted with two enemy forces killed and one coalition forces soldier wounded.
The wounded soldier was evacuated to medical facilities where he later died of
wounds."

Kimmitt said there has been a significant drop in attacks, both in numbers and
intensity, in the Baghdad zone of operations. "Recent activity seems to be more
harassing in nature than the coordinated attacks mounted by (cleric Muqtada al)
Sadr's militia against the Iraqi governmental institutions last week," he said.

"In Baghdad, it's assessed that Sadr's militia has begun to fracture, and Sadr
didn't receive the popular support he sought. It's also assessed that the
majority of the population remains natural with respect to the increased
violence and most are eager for a cessation of hostilities."

He also said coalition forces continue combat operations in Kut to defeat
Sadr's militia. "The militia no longer controls any government buildings,
bridges or Iraqi police stations, and Al Kut is considered secure," the general
noted.

On April 16, coalition leadership members were added to the Iraqi delegation in
discussions in Fallujah, according to Coalition Provisional Authority spokesman
Dan Senor. He said the joiners include CPA deputy administrator Ambassador
Richard Jones, "who is personally engaged in Fallujah as a demonstration of our
seriousness in trying to bring the situation in Fallujah to a peaceful
resolution."

According to a CPA news release, Jones said the talks were "a continuation of
meetings in Baghdad that led to a unilateral halt in offensive operations in
Fallujah by Marine forces." Besides the CPA, the coalition group included
representatives from CJTF 7 and 1st Marine Expeditionary Force.

The Fallujan delegation includes local professionals, including doctors,
lawyers and local political leaders. "Our delegation is also planning within
the next 24 hours to meet with the members of the provincial council," Senor
noted.

"Based on what Fallujan leaders are saying, we are hopeful about their
intentions," he said. "But our overriding question is, can they deliver? If so,
can they do so expeditiously? Time is running out."

Senor said the coalition is focusing on two groups of people in Fallujah. The
first are foreign terrorists and members of the former regime's paramilitary
Fedayeen Saddam that have been operating out of Fallujah. But he quickly added,
"We will not negotiate with this group."

But officials will talk to the second group the Fallujan people, he noted. "We
believe the overwhelming majority of Fallujans want to remove the burden of
foreign terrorists and Fedayeen Saddam," Senor said. "We can either remove this
burden with military force or with the cooperation of the Fallujan people. The
latter would minimize bloodshed and is obviously our priority."

That city's people can play an important role in pressuring the bad actors by
providing the intelligence the coalition needs, Senor said. "In reaching out to
Fallujans, we will also continue to show good faith on the humanitarian side,"
Senor said, adding that coalition officials are also negotiating with tribal
leaders.

Meanwhile, Kimmitt said earlier in the day on NBC's "Today" show the U.S.
military is trying to establish contact with the insurgents in Iraq who
kidnapped Army Pfc. Matt Maupin. He and Sgt. Elmer C. Krause, of the Army
Reserve's 724 Transportation Company, were listed as missing after their convoy
was attacked April 9 near Baghdad. Arab television showed video April 16 of
Maupin at an undisclosed location with masked gunmen standing behind him.

Kimmitt told NBC interviewer Lester Holt that he doesn't know where Krause is,
and the military is continuing to look for him. "We don't leave anybody
behind," Kimmitt said.

Meanwhile, CPA issued notices that various sections of roadways were closed and
that Iraqi engineers and coalition forces were repairing them. "For your
safety, watch for closure signs and do not drive on sections of the closed
highway," the notice read. Certain highways "have become targets for anti-
coalition forces. The highways are damaged and too dangerous for civilian
travel," it continued.

The notice warned that "civilians that attempt to drive on these roads may be
considered anti-coalition forces and risk being subject to attack. If civilians
drive on the closed section of the highways they may be engaged with deadly
force.

"These highways will be closed for an indefinite period of time for public use.
Safety and security of public travel is the primary reason for closing these
sections of highways."

Related Sites:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef]

Seoulstriker

04-18-2004, 05:22 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Violence Won't Stop Iraqi Power Turnover
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Rudi Williams
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 18, 2004 * It was probably predictable that insurgents would
try to prevent the transfer of power to Iraqis on June 30, National Security
Adviser Condoleezza Rice said on ABC's "This Week" today.

The insurgents "been aggressive and violent in the last couple of weeks," Rice
told host George Stephanopoulos. "We're responding to that. We're also
responding politically by working with the people on the ground, including local
leaders and members of the governing council."

She said the people the coalition is working with don't want Iraq thrown "back
into the dead of night in which it existed under Saddam Hussein."

Rice also talked about the U.N. role in Iraq's political transition. She pointed
out that U.N. special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi has laid out "quite realistic plan
of how to get to an interim government that can be a governing structure for
Iraq until those elections can be held."

Rice noted that the United Nations isn't the panacea, but it can play an
important, central role. "And it's not a matter of what one gives up," she
said. "It's a matter of how we work with the various parties so that we can
move Iraq along this political path.

She rejected the idea as "naïve" that "these thugs would not be attacking" if
Iraq were under a U.N., instead of a coalition, flag.

"Let's look at the fact that in August (2003) they went after the U.N. … These
same regime loyalists and perhaps foreign terrorists attacked the United
Nations in a way that the United Nations had not been attacked really in its
history, killing the special representative of the secretary-general, Sergio
(Vieira) de Mello. So the U.N. doesn't somehow protect you from people who are
determined to stop the Iraqi transition."

Rice said she thinks U.N. Security Council will put forth another resolution
"at the right time."

And "we are in discussions with NATO, [and Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld
and Secretary of State Colin Powell] have been in discussions with NATO about
how NATO might play a role. But this all has to be done in the right time,"
Rice observed.

"The liberation of Iraq was done," she stressed, "by a coalition in which
clearly the United States, the most powerful country on Earth, the largest
military force on Earth, the most capable force on Earth, was the primary
element. That should be of no surprise to anyone."

However, she noted, "the rebuilding of Iraq is an international effort."

"I think there are going to be some changes," Rice said. "We know that the
Spanish have been talking about pulling their forces out. We know that there are
others who are going to have to assess how they see the risk. But we have a
vibrant and robust coalition on the ground."

Rice said President Bush calls the war on terrorism "broad." In addition to
Afghanistan, that means "going to the source of the problem, the Middle East."

"We're going to deal with the circumstances that produced the al Qaedas of the
world," she said. "The only answer to that is that you have to have values
emerge there of freedom and liberty, which are the best answer to the kind of
hatred that we saw on September 11th."

She addressed the issue of swapping American soldiers being held hostage for
Iraqi prisoners. She said "the worst thing the United States can do" is to give
"an idea to terrorists and to people who want to intimidate that somehow their
intimidation techniques are going to be rewarded."

"We're looking at what we can do," Rice said. "The people on the ground are
doing everything they can to find a way to deal with the hostages. This is an
attack by regime loyalists and some foreign terrorists on a process that is
under way in Iraq. They want to intimidate us, they want to intimidate our
allies, they want to intimidate the Iraqis. They can't be allowed to have that
happen.

"The president of the United States doesn't negotiate with terrorists," she
emphasized.

Related Articles:
Situation in Fallujah
Unchanged; Delegation Seeks Resolution [/news/Apr2004/n04172004_200404171.html]
U.S., British Leaders Say They
Won't Abandon Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04162004_200404167.html]
U.N. Official Sketches Out
Iraq Government After June 30 [/news/Apr2004/n04142004_200404146.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
United Nations [http://www.un.org]
North Atlantic Treaty Organization [http://www.nato.int]

Seoulstriker

04-18-2004, 08:16 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Insurgents Going 'to Any Lengths' to Stop Iraq's Progress, Myers Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Rudi Williams
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 18, 2004 * Former regime elements and radical elements in
Iraq will "clearly go to any lengths" to halt progress toward democracy, said
Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Richard Myers on CNN's "Late Edition"
today.

Myers, just back April 17 from a weeklong trip that included Iraq and
Afghanistan, provided firsthand observation into the current situation in Iraq.

"I think what's going on is what we said for some time," Myers told CNN host
Wolf Blitzer. "As we get closer and closer, to handing over sovereignty to
Iraqis on June 30, the adversary is going to try to interrupt that process.

He mentioned the roles of radical cleric Muqtada al Sadr and al Qaeda associate
Muslim extremist and al Qaeda leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. "We saw in the
Zarqawi's letter four or five weeks ago that he was frustrated that he couldn't
make the coalition go away through roadside bombs and all sorts of other
attacks," Myers said.

Myers said Zarqawi and al Sadr followers "want to interrupt the progress we've
achieved in Iraq and we hope to achieve in the future."

"They'll clearly go to any lengths to do this. As Zarqawi's letter said, 'We're
going to have to start a Shiia and Sunni civil war to stop this.'"

That includes hostage taking. "In Fallujah, we think there's pretty good
coordination locally between former regime element and Zarqawi followers," he
said. "But that's a lot different from the Sadr and his militia, or thugs."

Myer said Sadr has been marginalized, even by other Shiia clerics, who don't
approve of what he's doing. "He has been so marginalized that there is not a
city under control of his militia as it was about a week ago," Myers noted. "His
militia has either melted away or been killed or captured. He's a marginalized
individual and right now he's in Najaf, one of the most holy sites of the Shiia
world.

"By his preaching, Sadr is not only anti-coalition, … he doesn't want progress
in Iraq," the general said.

By contrast, Myers said Shiia Grand Ayatollah Ali Husaini Sistani is his own
thinker. He noted that Sistani supports the transitional administrative law and
the role of the U.N.

"I think he's for progress in Iraq," Myers said. "He certainly doesn't want a
theocracy in Iraq."

As to the cease-fire in Fallujah, Myers said, "The Marines are trying their
best to maintain the cease-fire, but they're getting fired upon by these
extremists in Fallujah. They are the worst of the worst. They have used women
and children as shields, as has Sadr's forces in other parts of the country.

"The leader of the Italian forces near An Naziryah said at 5 o'clock in the
morning when they're trying to take the city back from Sadr's thugs, out come
lots of women and children in front of the fighters," Myers said. "This is not
a time when a lot of women and children are on the street. The same tactic is
being used in Fallujah."

Myers said interference by Syrians, Iranians or any other country, especially
close neighbors, doesn't help what the coalition is trying to accomplish in
Iraq and should be stopped.

Blitzer asked Myers about the situation on the Syrian border where five Marines
were reportedly killed this weekend. The general said the coalition knows that
the pathway into Iraq for many foreign fighters is through Syria.

The Marines are at the Syrian border to interdict "the rat lines," the supply
routes foreign fighters are using to travel from neighboring countries into
Iraq.

"The Syrians could do more to stop that," he said. "We know that there are the
headquarters of various terrorist organizations, such as Hamas, in Damascus.

"The Syrians need to take this situation very seriously. They need to help us
stop that infiltration of foreign fighters. It doesn't do their government any
good. It certainly doesn't do the work we're trying to accomplish in Iraq any
good."

Myers said he wants the Syrians, Iranians and others "to cut off this flow of
foreign fighters. I want them to go after the facilitators in Damascus that
help these people get the right papers, get the financing or whatever it is
they need to get, and the transportation to the border."

If these countries don't comply, Myers said they're going to live with an
unstable situation on their border with Iraq longer than would be good.

"I think what's good for them is good for the whole region * that is a stable,
secure Iraq on path to democracy," he said. "The economic benefits of stability
alone would be a huge benefit to the Syrians."

Myers also emphasized that "the U.S. is going to do everything in its power to
get Army Pfc. Keith Maupin, 20, and Sgt. Elmer C. Krause, 40, back alive and in
good condition."

"That's a basic ethic for the United States military and we'll do all in our
power to do that," Myers said.

Both Army Reservists were reported missing April 9, and Maupin was shown on
Arab television April 16 as a hostage.

Biography:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Myers, Abizaid Hold Strategy
Session in Baghdad [/news/Apr2004/n04142004_200404149.html]
Military Force May Be Next
Option In Fallujah, Myers Says [/news/Apr2004/n04162004_200404162.html]

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 07:47 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 334-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 19, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Michael A. McGlothin, 21, of Milwaukee, Wis., died April 17, in Baghdad, Iraq,
when an improvised explosive device exploded near his patrol. Spc. McGlothin was
assigned to the Army's 115th Forward Support Battalion, Division Support Command,
1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at
(703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 07:47 AM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Army Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 335-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 19, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Sgt. Brian M. Wood, 21, of Torrance, Calif., died April 16, in Tikrit, Iraq, when
his military vehicle pulled off the road and apparently hit a mine while on
patrol. Sgt. Wood was assigned to the Army's 9th Engineer Battalion, 2nd Brigade
Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at
(703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 12:07 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Insurgents Won't Shoot Their Way to Power, Bremer Tells Iraqis
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTION, April 19, 2004 -- Iraq's Transitional Administrative Law offers
hope for the country's future, and outlaws who oppose it will not be allowed to
"shoot their way to power," the Coalition Provisional Authority administrator
told the Iraqi people in an April 18 nationally broadcast address.

"The forces of darkness hope to obstruct the path to Iraqi sovereignty,
elections and democracy," Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III said. "The vast
majority of Iraqis want a peaceful, democratic Iraq. The path to that Iraq has
been well defined."

He said the Transitional Administrative Law – often referred to as Iraq's
interim constitution -- is "proof that Iraqis not only want, but are prepared
to construct a country based on the principles of individual liberty and
democracy." The document, written by the Governing Council, provides for a
seven-month interim government, four national elections, and an elected
transitional government with plenary powers.

The law, he said, will guarantee a broad range of individual freedoms, such as
freedom of speech, freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of the press. The
law also provides for an independent Iraqi judiciary, he said. The law
recognizes Islam as the official religion of Iraq, but still provides
protection for all to practice their the religious beliefs, he added.

The law also provides for a permanent constitution to be written by elected
representatives and presented to the Iraqi people for ratification.

"Some have challenged the Transitional Administrative Law," Bremer said. "They
have raised objections based on imperfect understanding. This has created
misconceptions about the Transitional Administrative Law."

Bremer clarified several misconceptions about the new law.

Many Iraqis, he said, believe the law gives too much power to an unelected
government. But he said that belief is "false."

Bremer pointed out that the unelected interim government will be in power for
just seven months, and is intended only to look after the "ordinary, day-to-day
affairs of government." Furthermore, the interim government, he said, will not
have the authority to negotiate treaties or to undertake long-term, binding
commitments.

"The interim government will not have the power to do anything which cannot be
undone by the elected government, which takes power early next year," he
explained.

Another misconception, he said, is the belief that provisions in the interim
constitution permitting two-thirds majorities of any three governates to reject
the draft permanent constitution is a trick to keep Iraq from having a
permanent constitution.

"This too is false," he said. "Iraqi unity requires a constitution that all of
Iraq's communities can support. It is a fundamental principle of democracy
that the constitution should provide for majority rule but also protect
minority rights." He noted that a constitution objectionable to an overwhelming
majority of the citizens of any three provinces would prevent a unified Iraq.

Bremer said the coalition, the Iraqi Governing Council and the Iraqi people –
working over the coming weeks with United Nations envoy Lakhdar Brahimi -- will
establish an Iraqi "caretaker government" capable of administering the ordinary
affairs of the country before elections take place in January.

He said the Iraqi interim government will consist of a president, two deputy
presidents and a cabinet of "honest, distinguished, and capable Iraqis."

Bremer said Brahimi is considering convening a national conference of prominent
Iraqi citizens to be held in July. That conference, he pointed out, would elect
an advisory council to provide "guidance and wisdom to the new government." He
said U.N. experts would work with Iraqis to ensure full, fair, and free
national elections.

"This, now, is the way forward," he said. "First, we must all work together to
restore security to Iraq. Then, working under the framework set out in the
Transitional Administrative Law, Iraqis, the United Nations, and their
coalition allies will together build a sovereign Iraqi that is secure,
democratic, and free."

However, Bremer said sovereignty in Iraq is being challenged by "violent
minorities" who are trying to stop the election process and shoot their way to
power."

Events of the past two weeks, in which insurgents overran Iraqi police stations
and seized public buildings as Iraqi forces were unable to stop them, prove the
country still faces security threats and needs "outside help," Bremer said. He
said that Iraq's security forces must have help until they are fully equipped
and trained, and that the coalition intends to provide that help, Bremer said.

Because Iraqi forces will not be able to deal with the threats to Iraqi
security on their own by June 30, when an Iraqi government assumes sovereignty,
he said, Iraqi and coalition troops be partners in providing the security the
country needs.

Bremer said that while the security situation will be the primary
responsibility of the coalition, it also is the responsibility of the Iraqi
people.

"Whether by direct enlistment in the security forces or through the sharing of
information with security forces, almost all Iraqi families can add to the
security and progress of their country," he said.

Biography:
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Text of
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III's Broadcast Address to the Iraqi People, April
18, 2004 [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/transcripts/20040418_Bremer_TAL.html]
Iraq's Transitional
Administrative Law [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/government/TAL.html]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 01:19 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 336-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 19, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Staff Sgt. Jimmy J. Arroyave, 30, of Woodland, Calif., died April 15,
due a non-combat related vehicle accident northeast of Ar Ramadi, Iraq. He was
assigned to Combat Service Support Battalion 1, Combat Service Support Group 11,
1st Force Service Support Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton,
Calif.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact the Marine
Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 01:19 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Cease-Fire Agreement Reached In Fallujah; 13 U.S. troops Killed In Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 19, 2004 – U.S., coalition and Iraqi officials have agreed
"to implement a full and unbroken cease-fire" in the city of Fallujah, chief
Coalition Provisional Authority spokesman Dan Senior said today in Baghdad.

The agreement, Senor told reporters at a press briefing, was reached over a
series of meetings over the past several days.

The cease-fire agreement, he noted, features several points:

<li type=disc> Coalition forces will allow "unfettered" access to Fallujah
General Hospital for treatment of sick and injured.

<li type=disc> All parties agreed to provide for the removal and burial of the
dead, as well as providing food and medicine in isolated areas of the city.

<li type=disc> The start of an evening curfew will be moved from 7 p.m. to 9
p.m. to enable Fallujah religious functionaries to conduct services.

<li type=disc> Measures will be implemented to provide passage of official
ambulances throughout the city via checkpoints.

<li type=disc> Medical, technical and security personnel will be allowed access
throughout Fallujah to conduct their work.

"In due course, consideration will be given to allowing additional civilians to
enter the city," Senor said, starting with 50 families per day, beginning April
20.

The cease-fire also calls for Fallujah citizens and groups to turn in all
illegal weapons, Senor noted, including mortars, rocket-propelled grenades,
machine guns, grenades, sniper rifles, surface-to-air missiles, and other
banned ordnance and associated ammunition.

Those who give up their weapons voluntarily will not be prosecuted for weapons
violations, Senor said, and unarmed individuals won't be attacked.

Senor said major hostilities could resume in Fallujah if cease-fire tenets
aren't met.

The parties to the cease-fire agreement also agreed to the necessity of
restoring order in Fallujah, Senor noted. Therefore, he said, joint U.S.-
coalition-Iraqi security forces would resume routine patrols within the city.

The agreement, Senor said, also calls for the urgent "re-formation of the Iraqi
police force and the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps" in Fallujah.

Iraqi security forces, Fallujah's residents and coalition forces, Senor told
reporters, "must move to eliminate remaining foreign fighters, criminals and
drug users from Fallujah in order for security and stability to occur."

While U.S.-coalition forces "do not intend to resume offensive operations" if
all persons inside Fallujah turn in their heavy weapons, Senor said,
"individual violators will be dealt with on an individual basis."

All parties to the cease-fire "reaffirmed the absolute need to restore law and
order in the city as quickly as possible," Senor said. This includes rebuilding
the city's judicial system, he added, and the investigation of criminal acts,
to include the March 31 killing and debasement of four American contractors and
the attack on the Iraqi police station in February.

Regarding the two U.S. soldiers captured in Iraq -- Army Sgt. Elmer C. Krause
and Pfc. Matt Maupin – now being held hostage, Senor noted the U.S. government
"is putting everything behind the pursuit of the hostage takers and the safe
release of the hostages."

"We will put our best intelligence resources behind that effort; we will put
our best military resources behind that effort," Senor continued. "The safe
release of hostages taken in Iraq is a high priority."

Elsewhere in Iraq, five U.S. Marines were killed April 17 in fighting in
Husaybah, according to a Combined Joint Task Force 7 news release. About 25 to
30 of the enemy died in the exchange.

And eight U.S. soldiers died and several were wounded in Iraq from April 16
to18, according to U.S. Central Command news releases:

April 18 -- A soldier assigned with the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force was
killed by enemy action in Anbar province.

April 17 -- Three soldiers with a 1st Armored Division convoy were killed during
an enemy ambush near Diwaniyah. An improvised explosive device killed a soldier
in eastern Baghdad. One soldier was killed and two were injured when their
Abrams tank rolled over in northern Baghdad, and a soldier was electrocuted
while working on a power generator near Samarra.

April 16 -- A 1st Infantry Division soldier was killed and two were wounded when
their patrol touched off an anti-tank mine near Tikrit.

Identities of killed and wounded service members are being withheld, pending
notification of next of kin.

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
1st Armored Division [http://www.1ad.army.mil/]
1st Infantry Division [http://www.1id.army.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 01:20 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Pentagon Plans Test of Atmospheric Dispersion
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 337-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 19, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Pentagon Plans Test of Atmospheric Dispersion

The Department of Defense announced today that an atmospheric
dispersion survey will be held in and around the Pentagon from April 19 to May 15,
2004. The survey will advance knowledge about the weather conditions and movement
of simulated airborne contaminants around and inside the Pentagon. The resulting
data will be used to improve, refine and verify a computer model that simulates the
atmospheric transport of potential contaminants around the Pentagon.

Knowledge gained about the airflow around the Pentagon, and the
associated transport of gases and their infiltration into the building, will allow
the development of improved systems for protecting other Department of Defense
facilities.

The survey, which is being called exercise Pentagon Shield, will use a large array
of sensors to measure temperature, wind speeds, wind directions, and other
specialized measurements to aid development of an advanced chemical and biological
protection system for the Pentagon and its occupants. The Pentagon Shield exercise
is sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency and the Pentagon
Force Protection Agency.

The sensors being used are standard weather sensors and include
battery-powered wind sensors mounted on light poles around the Pentagon, on the
building roof, and in the courtyard. A large, 100-foot tower mounted with weather
sensors will be located to the southwest of the Pentagon building, on Arlington
Cemetery property. A 30-foot by 10-foot blimp will be parked in South Parking and
flown mostly during the nighttime hours to measure the winds at various heights.
Two long-range laser-based sensors will be placed on the grounds of the Navy Annex
to measure winds around the entire Pentagon reservation.

During the exercise, a safe, non-toxic, colorless, odorless gas will be
released over a three-day period within the first two weeks of May. The tracer gas
will simulate how chemical or biological agents would flow around and into the
Pentagon. The tracer gas being used is sulfur hexafluoride, SF6, which is
completely safe and commonly used in airflow testing. The gas also is approved by
the Food and Drug Administration for injection into the body for specialized tests
due to its safe properties.

The actual test days are dependent upon suitable weather conditions but
should occur sometime during the first two weeks of May. The majority of testing
is scheduled to occur over the weekend but some releases may occur during weekdays.

The tracer testing protocol being followed is standard and has been
used in other locations. The protocol for the Pentagon exercise has been reviewed
by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Virginia Department of Environmental
Quality.

All sensors will be clearly marked as part of the Pentagon Shield
exercise and should not be touched or moved. Additionally, all Pentagon Shield
exercise participants will be wearing bright green safety vests and black caps with
the Pentagon Shield logo and have picture identification badges.

Major participants in exercise Pentagon Shield are: National Center
for Atmospheric Research, Field Research Division of the Air Resources Laboratory
of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Army Dugway Proving
Ground, and the University of Colorado.

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 03:13 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Former DoD Comptroller Cites Transformational Accomplishments
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 19, 2004 – Before his resignation took effect last week, the
Defense Department's former comptroller cited transformation as the main focus
during his three-year tour.

Dov S. Zakheim, who left government service April 15, cited some of the changes
that occurred on his watch during in an April 13 interview.

For example, he pointed out, $200 billion in military retirement and Medicare
funds have been re-invested to realize bigger returns for beneficiaries.
Zakheim said changes were made after he reviewed a DoD inspector general report
that criticized how the funds were managed. He noted that a new oversight board
was created to review how those investments were made.

"We have to maximize the rate of return," Zakheim explained. "There was a sense
that there wasn't sufficient high-level oversight" into the military retirement
and health care investment portfolios.

After changes were implemented, the military retirement fund earned more than 5
percent over the past year, a very favorable rate compared to private-sector
investment plans, Zakheim noted. The Medicare fund isn't doing as well, but
noted, "I think people will be seeing that changing very quickly," he added.

Zakheim said that when he became DoD comptroller on May 4, 2001, he felt it was
"terribly important that we really emphasized financial management."
Consequently, he said, the necessary resources were installed to improve how
DoD tracks and validates its expenditures.

He estimated that a complete, "clean" audit of DoD's vast financial system
should be available in fiscal 2007. This, he emphasized, "is not an easy task,"
but it's being accomplished not only within DoD, but also across government.

"We have improved financial statements, and we've created a much more credible
approach to financial management," Zakheim pointed out, crediting former
businessman Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld for his valued support.

The secretary's transformational vision, Zakheim said, "has literally
overhauled" the Defense Department.

"Whether it's planning, whether it's operations, whether it's the type of
systems that we buy, whether it's financial management – this secretary is
constantly pushing for change," Zakheim observed.

Biographies:
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld [/bios/rumsfeld_bio.html]
Former DoD Comtroller Dov S. Zakheim [/bios/zakheim_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
DoD Transformation [http://www.dod.mil/transformation/]

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 03:29 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Commander Calls War on Terror 'National War for Our Survival'
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 19, 2004 -- The war on terror isn't a conflict limited to
Afghanistan and Iraq, but rather, "a national war for our survival as a
nation," according to the commander of the Defense Department's largest
warfighting organization, the Army's 18th Airborne Corps.

Army Lt. Gen. John R. Vines, who commands about 85,000 soldiers in four combat
divisions — all of which have seen combat in Southwest Asia — told the American
Forces Press Service last week at Fort Bragg, N.C., that the war on terror
boils down to defending the United States against the forces of evil. "Evil is
out there, and evil wishes to attack us," he said.

Vines said the American public frequently talks about how the terrorist attacks
of Sept. 11, 2001, "changed the world for everyone." But terrorists had been
fighting the United States long before the attacks on the World Trade Center
and the Pentagon, he said, launching more than 100 attacks against Americans
around the world.

"Whether you date it from when militants overran the U.S. Embassy in Iran in
1979 or the Marine Corps barracks and U.S. Embassy were both bombed in Beirut,
Lebanon, in 1983 or whether it was the bombing of the USS Cole in October 2000
or the (U.S. embassies) in Kenya or Tanzania in 1998 or Khobar Towers in Saudi
Arabia in 1996 or the World Trade Center in 1993," Vines said, "we have been
under attack from extremists."

Despite these attacks, Vines said it took an event as dramatic as the World
Trade Center attacks, "in prime time in one of the media capitals of the world,
to drive home the fact that these people are serious about destroying us."

Vines said the Sept. 11 attacks did change the way the United States views
terrorism — something he called "long overdue."

"It ceased to be a law-enforcement issue and became, at least in the mind of
our government, a war," Vines said. "We were not on a war footing prior to
Sept. 11."

Today, with U.S. forces waging the war on terror in Southwest Asia and
elsewhere around the globe, Vines said the United States is "asking some
extraordinary things" of its service members.

"We are in a struggle, and there are some incredible sacrifices and service by
our men and women," he said. "They need our 100 percent support and we need to
make sure that the American citizens know the heavy load they are carrying and
value the sacrifices they are making."

He praised the "extraordinary heroism and extraordinary professionalism" of the
individual soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who have joined forces to
protect the United States against terrorism. Their efforts, he said, have been
"absolutely amazing and inspirational" to anybody who sees them.

Vines said success in combat isn't about military hardware or technology. "It
boils down to the individual soldiers. It's about having people who have the
commitment, the courage, the will and the warrior values to confront the forces
that threaten us," he said. "And only so long as we have those men and women
who are able and willing to confront this will we be safe."

Biography:
Lt. Gen. John R. Vines [http://www.bragg.army.mil/18abn/cg.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
18th Airborne Corps [http://www.bragg.army.mil/18abn/]
War on Terror [http://www.defendamerica.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 04:58 PM

From: DoD Transcripts <dltranscripts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Secretary of Defense Interview with Bob Woodward - 20 Sept, 2003
To: DODTRANSCRIPTS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

NEWS TRANSCRIPT from the United States Department of Defense

DoD News Briefing
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld
Monday, April 19, 2004

(Interview with Bob Woodward of the Washington Post. Also participating was
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Lawrence Di Rita)

Rumsfeld: Okay, a couple of things before we start. I am not great with
dates or times and I don't have a lot of notes that can be helpful. The last time
we met you asserted things, saying, “You did this or you said that,” as though you
knew what I did, and you were wrong a lot.

Q: I apologize for that. It was based on NSC notes and what other
people said.

Rumsfeld: Other people, exactly. And your assumption is, if somebody
says that to you, that it is correct. Therefore you assert it to me. That causes
me a lot of problems, because then I have to stop and say, “No, that's not right.”
Almost everything you asked me was premised with an assertion that was either
incomplete or wrong, and it changed the whole nature of it. You'd be better off
with me if you asked those questions about the premises in the question you want to
ask.

Q: My overall goal in this, because I have good relationship with
President Bush and he wants me to do this, I think, as you know.

Rumsfeld: A couple of other things, I tend to ask a lot of questions of
the people I work with and I tend to give very few orders. This place is so big and
so complicated and there's so much that I don't know, that I probe and probe and
probe and push and ask, “Well, why wasn't this done?” or “Shouldn't this be done?”
but it's generally with a question mark at the end.

Q: I've found that in my research.

Rumsfeld: I've read a lot of stuff about me that doesn't sound that way
and I think you ought to have that fact in your head.

Next, I glanced, last night; I thumbed very fast through Myers' and
Pace's transcripts, just to see what it. I thought that Myers---I really went fast
through Pace, but I read some of Myers. I thought Myers' interview was good. He
did a good job of backing you off and putting things in context, and a useful thing
to do.

Q: I agree with that and that's why I talked to him. You know, he said
like you - he said, I can't tell you, and he was looking for his notebooks and he
was trying to get certain things and he said, I can't tell you when this happened
but what I can tell you is...

Rumsfeld: And that's good.

I've read a lot of history in my life, and I don't know if I got it from
history, but I decided that it was enormously important that, if I was going to be
an effective link between the President of the United States and the combatant
commander, I knew my relationship with the President and the access and his interest
and how he feels and his body language on things had to be communicated down to Tom
Franks and through him to his people. So, I started spending a lot of time with Tom
Franks and we've had dinner, and what have you, and talked on the phone. We talked
here and we talked down there, and I decided it was of fundamental importance if we
were going to have people's lives at risk. There needs to be a true channel from the
President to me, to him; and from him, to me, to the President. I also took great
pains to bring him in contact with the President as often as I could, and in some
instances when I wasn't there so it would---

Q: Like sending him to Crawford, in 2001, between Christmas and New
Years.

Rumsfeld: Consciously.

Q: And General Franks - you said, you go down to Crawford, and you
said, I'm not going without you. And you said, we'll see.

{Laughter}

Rumsfeld: Okay. A general fact is that Tom---first of all, just did a
terrific job by my standards. He managed his information and his things. He was
thinking very well and had things in his mind that he didn't always communicate to
everybody. He carefully managed what he was thinking and how he communicated that
with people. Most people were working off something other than a full picture. It
ought not to be surprising that there were people who were critical of him.

Q: I am totally in sync with you on that and I spent four hours with
General Franks, which someone said is ten times more than he spent with anyone else.

Rumsfeld: I asked him to.

Q: I appreciate that, and he said that.

Rumsfeld: And Gary Luck, have you met with him?

Q: I will. He said that he had called you and wanted, kind of your "go
ahead."

Rumsfeld: I recommended that you see him. And the reason is, much to
my surprise, it turns out he was in on an awful lot of the communications between
Tom and me, and Myers and Tom, during that period. He is an interesting man. I had
not known him, but he headed up this lessons learned and it turned out that he,
because Tom had so much confidence in himself, was willing to let someone like Luck,
and 60 or 70 others at various levels of his organization, listen. A lot of people
would not have been comfortable with that because they would be afraid that he's
going to say, “Oh, you did this wrong, or you made this mistake or something. His
interest was in getting it right. It turned out, Tom said to me, that he really
felt there wasn't a day he went to bed that there hadn't been value added from the
lessons-learned provided by people, who were at various levels including General
Luck. Well after the fact, General Luck made a couple of observations about me to
me that I had no idea he would have known, but it turned out he was on an awful lot
of those calls and in that linkage. So he's a person who watched this thing evolve
over a sustained period of time and that's why I put him on the list. Giambastiani
is another guy you really have to see because he led that effort and knows an awful
lot about it.

Q: He was your military aide during all of this?

Rumsfeld: No.

Di Rita: Well he was until August of '02.

Q: During some portion of it.

Rumsfeld: During some portion of it. I suggested you talk to Wolfowitz,
Myers, Pace, Franks, Luck, and Giambastiani; and then, it's really more up to you.
I don't know what you’re interested in. The key people were on the team that Tommy
put together: McKiernan, Buzz Moseley, Del Daley, Keating, the component commanders,
and the SOF guy. I don't know if you're going to talk to them or not.

Q: Well I will. I talked to a lot of CENTCOM staff--- General Renuart,
who is the J3.

Rumsfeld: He's an important guy. He was at almost all my meetings. He
was over at the NSC meetings; we'd take him along. I finally said to Tom---Tom
would say who can come. I always said, “Look, if Gene is around, you can bring him
into anything, as far as I'm concerned.” So he was around a lot.

Q: He went down with General Franks to see the President in Crawford.

Rumsfeld: Yes.

Q: At that time when this kind of all---

Rumsfeld: Right. He was really Franks' guy, who helped knit all the
things together.

Q: I got to know him. He's---

Rumsfeld: He’s quite a man.

Q: And very clear-eyed and has a good memory and he will go back. I
think he read the whole war plan---the old one and the iterations that you did, and
so forth.

Rumsfeld: Who else? I don't know, but that's the list I made for you.
There was one thing I asked to try to nail down, and we have not been able to nail
down. I can remember an NSC meeting that ended, and the President put his arm on me
and said, I'd like to see you for a minute. So we walked out and the meeting broke
up. We went into one of the two offices at the NSC in the Sit Room. The two of us
went in alone and sat down. He said: What kind of a war plan do you have for Iraq?
I said that I was concerned about all of our war plans, that they tended to have
assumptions that were stale, and that the process was so complex and so long that it
was almost inevitable that the assumptions would be stale. What happened was, it
would be signed out to a Combatant Command, as opposed to a Commander. It would go
out -- and of course those assignments are two years or three years, it varies --
and they would then begin work on it. They would then do some low level work with
the Joint Staff and, at some point, would come in with pretty much of a plan that
had a lot of detail work on it. When I came into the office, 2 1/2 years ago, and
asked for these plans, I found plans that had assumptions that were totally
different today, as compared to when they were written. And of course in some
cases, the assumptions were back three and four years in a world that's changing
very fast.

Q: And the Iraq war plan was '96 I think, the one that was on the
shelf, and there had been an update that Secretary Cohen had not signed off on.

Rumsfeld: Interesting.

Q: Kind of flapping in the breeze.

Rumsfeld: In any event, I said look we've got to do two things: We owe
the country and the President war plans, contingency plans with thinking that is
current. The only way we're going to get that is if we can compress that process
dramatically and shorten it from years, down to some cycle that can be refreshed
with current assumptions. And so I got started. What I did was, I came in here on
a Saturday.

Q: And this was in 2001?

Rumsfeld: Yes, when I first arrived here.

Q: When the President said this?

Rumsfeld: No, wait a second. I don't know when the President said that
to me. It's a full stop after that; I don't have that date. This is now generally
on contingency planning. Then, I asked to be briefed on a plan, and I was stunned
on the one I looked at it. It happened not to be Iraq and that part of the world.
It was a different part of the world. I was stunned. Then I looked at the process
and said we've simply got to cut the process at least in half. And I said, what I
would like to do is next Saturday, I want the war planners, the contingency
planners, to come in and brief me on all of the major contingency plans'
assumptions, not the plans. I wanted to see the assumptions. I sat in that room
down there. I sat there (and these people couldn't believe it) most of the day. One
Colonel would pop up and go through the assumptions, and I'd discuss them and talk
about them. Then the next guy would come up and he went through one after another
after another.

Q: And they didn't in some cases didn't know what the assumptions were.
Isn't that true?

Rumsfeld: Well no, because they'd go through these things. They'd
change people and new people would come in. They were just briefing what was on the
shelf. Well, that reaffirmed my concern. There's been a lot of discussion about
the Iraq war plan as though it was something distinctively different, and, in fact,
it was not. My concern about it was roughly my concern about most of them, if not
all. It was a concern that ran to a process that needed to be fixed.

Q: That's consistent with what General Franks said. And he said you -
it was November 27th - you went down to Tampa, now 2001, so this is just 2 1/2
months after 9/11. You said to him, I want you to look at your war plan.

Rumsfeld: I did that to every combatant commander in the world.

Q: But start with Iraq, you told him. Get that out first. That's what
he said.

Rumsfeld: Maybe I did.

Q: And then there was a Commander's estimate request, sent down to him,
December 1st, which he was going to -

Rumsfeld: See, I can't validate these things.

Q: That's what -

Rumsfeld: So don't do that to me.

Q: Okay. I'm sorry.

Rumsfeld: You tell me he said that. If I sit here and don't say
anything, don't think that makes it right.

Q: My goal is to get this right.

Rumsfeld: Okay, now, what I did was I went to literally all of the area
geographic Combatant Commanders and said, “Pull ‘em out.” Let's look at them; let's
put them in priority order. We're going to compress this cycle so that they get
done in a much shorter period, and the only way that can happen is if we have an
iterative process. That is to say, we will start with assumptions, which most
people don't; most people start with a plan that's there, and then tweak it. I said
we're going to start with assumptions and then we're going to establish priorities,
and each of the Combatant Commanders are then going to start working through their
plans. The way they were going to work through them is they were going to come back
to me every six or eight weeks, and were going to say here's where we are; this is
what we think. That way, all of the grunt work that people have to do, which is an
enormous amount of work, won't get done until we get the front right. I mean, I
don't know who it was, Marshall or somebody that said, if you get the strategy
right, a lieutenant can draft the plan. If you really know what you're doing, and
where you're going, you can move a long distance in the right way without jerking
people around and wasting their time. It just breaks my heart to see fine, talented
people working so hard on something, and when you look at it, you say, well my
goodness, we never should have gone that way. The only way these things can be done
well is, if risk is elevated, put it on a table and discuss it, instead of trying to
mitigate it down below at a level where you don't have the benefit of trading off
and balancing that risk.

Q: Where they say let's put in another division - let's oh yeah.

Rumsfeld: So it gets dealt with that way, if it's lower. It gets dealt
with in a totally different way, if it's at a higher level.

Q: And in the war plans, as I understand it, there is no page with
assumptions.

Rumsfeld: There had not been.

Q: There had not been, and General Franks and others say you kept
saying well what's the assumption here?

Rumsfeld: Right. If you then asked, are you assuming that country "X"
has nuclear weapons or doesn't have nuclear weapons, or are you assuming that
they're within one year of having it or not having it? Do you assume this? That is
not the case of Iraq, but those are the kinds of issues. What's happened to their
military capabilities of that country? Have they gone up or down in the intervening
period? All of those things needed to be taken in account.

Q: And someone said at one point at the briefing, I think before 9-11
on the Korean war plan, you said, well now wait a minute, we have a new Secretary of
Defense and a new President; we start talking about guidance and I have had no
input. Is that correct?

Rumsfeld: Yes, we had looked. At what year did the guidance come? The
guidance came back in the mid-90's. The President and the Secretary of Defense
wanted this, that or the other thing and yet it had never been even discussed here.
Furthermore, we had a new defense strategy by then. We had to win decisively and
swiftly ensure defeat, and of course the old plans were not looked at that way at
all in that new context. So we had to fix them all. I think that you need that in
your head because---

Q: Clearly.

Rumsfeld: ---the way the writing has taken place about Iraq is that the
interaction with Tommy Franks was distinctively different in some way. At a certain
point, it became much more intense and it had the highest priority, but the pattern
is very similar because I basically said the same thing to all of the others, that
we need to fix these plans. We owe it to the people of the country.

Q: How many plans altogether?

Rumsfeld: I don't talk about that.

Q: Okay, understand. I hope you don't mind me asking.

Rumsfeld: No, not at all. It's our job to plan. It's our job not to
do something, but to be ready and to have thought it through, so that the decision
maker, the President, not me, has in his head what his options are.

Q: And you are in a situation where time is moving and the planners are
all organized in a way where a year or two -- I think at one point someone said on
Iraq, that the military would kind of say, well tell us when you want to start and
we'll just back up. And you said, we don't know, we don't know whether we're going
to start.

Rumsfeld: We hope we won't start.

Q: Maybe there will be a provocation, so you have to do kind of short
planning.

Rumsfeld: Maybe we'll be successful in the U.N. Maybe, just say, we
had a concept, that if "X" would happen what would we do? Then, if "Y" would
happen, we'd do that plus something and you'd have a plus, plus. But on the other
hand, the whole process of flowing the forces was designed to support the diplomacy
with the hope you would not have a conflict.

Q: And see if I got this right, as I went through all of this, the
discussions and interviews with dozens of people and chronologies and records, I've
asked myself what is Secretary of Defense doing? What he's trying to do is trying
to clean formulation of not the problem, but a series of problems, because it might
be long plan, it might be short plan. And as I have it on kind of the first
meeting, which I have, you know, in December 2001 when General Franks brought up
what was on the shelf, he kind of---they did a briefing. He said, this is the state
of planning, as it exists today. All of us are going to have a lot of difficulties
with this plan, this was the 1003.

Rumsfeld: I don't remember the numbers but--there's no doubt that the
press reports that suggested that Tom presented a plan and I rejected it. It is
just not correct.

Q: Understand.

Rumsfeld: We both looked at it. We both agreed that it was stale, that
it didn't fit his view of the world; it didn't fit my view of the world. It was not
rooted in things we knew from Afghanistan. It wasn't rooted in the new strategy
that we had. Therefore, he needed to do a lot of work.

Q: And at one point he said, you said, I'm not sure that much force is
needed because the plan on the shelf had called for 400,000, 500,000, given what
we've learned coming out of Afghanistan.

Rumsfeld: See, I can't validate that.

Di Rita: This is what Franks said?

Q: Yes, this is what Franks said you said. And Franks said, you'll get
no argument out of me. Which of course is contrary to the press reports.

Rumsfeld: Oh my goodness, yes.

Q: That his whole attitude was, I don't think we're going to have to do
this either, but it is what we have. And you essentially said, okay now let's get
this process going and there were a series of rebriefings.

Rumsfeld: Could be, could be.

Q: Okay. What did you see the problem as, because it went through a
generated start plan that was developed, then a running start plan, and then, in the
end, a hybrid they called it?

Rumsfeld: I remember all of those words. Of course the complexity was
that we had a very different Iraq from Desert Storm. The war plan was really Desert
Storm II "plus," to oversimplify it, the one on the shelf.

Q: No question.

Rumsfeld: And the Iraqi capabilities were different than seemed assumed
in that plan.

Q: Because it had been degraded 40 percent or more.

Rumsfeld: Yeah. Our capabilities were different. Our knowledge and lessons out of
Afghanistan were not taken into account, and there were a whole series of other
things that we had to take into account. One thing was speed. When you start
looking at the circumstances of some of the neighboring countries and the effects of
a long war on those neighboring countries, their people, and their governments, one
had to say, how might this be done using greater speed rather than a longer period
with greater mass?

Q: And that was the President's direction also and perception of this;
is that correct?

Rumsfeld: You can be certain that the entire National Security Council
was sensitive. All we had to do was visit with the neighbors. The length of time
that conflict persisted would directly affect the number of refugees. It would
eliminate tourism in their countries. It would cause people in their countries, or
agitators in their countries, to have a bigger opportunity to stir things up, make
things difficult for those governments. There were a host of things that argued in
that direction. Now, simply because its desirable, doesn't mean it's doable. That
had to become a factor that immediately had to be counterposed with some of the
traditional thinking about how you do these kinds of things. Oh there are so many
pieces of it! The longer the thing went on, the greater the likelihood that the
dams would be broken; the greater likelihood that the oil wells would go; the
greater likelihood that the bridges would have been blown; the greater likelihood
that you'd have internally displaced persons and refugees; the greater the
likelihood that you would have a humanitarian crisis: food, water and the like. So
all of those kinds of things had to be factored in. We are going to have to wind
this up.

Do you want to talk process for a few minutes?

Q: I sure do, absolutely.

Rumsfeld: Why don't you? How do we proceed from here?

Q: I want to construct a narrative, because that's the only way you can
communicate to a large body of people, what happened. And there is the perception
that the President just decided, Oh let's go to war.

Rumsfeld: Oh, no.

Q: And, of course, I mean, in a way, my point is it's an exercise in patience
almost. Would you agree with that on his part?

Rumsfeld: There's no question, but that it was a long, long period and
everyone was respectful of what he was trying to do. Within the government, there
was a great respect for his recognition that a conflict was the last choice; there's
just so much that's unpredictable in a conflict.

Q: Even for you?

Rumsfeld: You bet.

Q: You didn't want the conflict.

Rumsfeld: Oh my goodness no, no one with any sense wants conflict.

Q: But see there's again that perception. And I have notes of meetings
where you're saying in the end of 2002 after the U.N. resolution is passed, the 15
to 0, that you in effect say, we're going to deal with the deployments. We're going
to dribble it out, so we support diplomacy so we don't create an atmosphere of we've
already decided. At the same time, we want to keep the pressure on, and that sounds
like a really tricky balancing act.

Rumsfeld: It is.

Q: And tell me how you did that?

Rumsfeld: Well, our whole system here was designed to the contrary. It
was designed with either its world peace or its World War III. Either the switch is
off or on, so the TPFDD [time-phased force and deployment data] was designed in a
way that everything flowed and you exercised/activated CRAF [civil reserve air
fleet] and got all the airlines committed and so forth. I just said, we're not
going to do it that way, because it doesn't make any sense. Either we do nothing,
in which case we don't support diplomacy, or we do everything in which case we're
precipitating something and we don't want to do that. Towards the end, I said we've
simply got to give an ultimatum; we've got to give them a last chance to get out of
there and if, God willing, if there's something we can do to have them leave and not
require a conflict, the world will be vastly better off

Q: What was the most important moment in this for you personally, or in terms of
deciding or advising the president?

Rumsfeld: Oh I don't know. We're over time.

Q: We are.

Rumsfeld: Let's talk process.

Q: My focus is the President. Did you locate a rough time or moment
when he decided to go to war?

Rumsfeld: Oh hell, I remember precisely. I don't know the date but I
remember the event.

Q: Tell me what.

Rumsfeld: I don't want to get into this. We've got to talk process.
You're way over time. We've got to end this. I'm trying to think how we do this.

Q: I will do anything literally. I think if they validate; we get
major turning points, some of the concepts we've talked about here, some of the
things General Franks said, because this idea of going for the long-generated start
to the running start to the hybrid, that obviously, was a turning point because you
came up with a plan that was the best of both worlds in a way. Where'd that come
from, do you know?

Rumsfeld: I kept communicating down to Tom, the President's thinking
and the diplomatic circumstance. And I kept communicating up to the President and
the NSC, the facts of the deployments, the mobilizations, the Operation Northern
Watch and Southern Watch, what was taking place in the region and those kinds of
things. The important thing is to try to connect those things in a way that fit the
diplomatic circumstance and did not disadvantage the potential requirement for the
use of military force.

Q: And incrementally improving your position militarily and keep
building up a reasonable way and then General Franks developed these idea of spikes.
We'll send a second carrier in and we'll take it out.

Rumsfeld: We all see things from our vantage point. I've rarely read a
book about events that I was involved in that left me with an impression of the
author being a participant, and not an author like you, where I ended up with as
favorable an impression of the author as I had previously. And the reason for that
is simple. They see it through their eyes. They only see a slice. They don't see
360 degrees; none of us do. I've been asked to write books and I've always declined
saying, it would take me so long to talk to so many people and try to box the
compass, so it was fair. Their answer to me is, baloney, you don't have to be
fair. You need to present your slice or else your slice isn't in there with those
other slices. History 50 years from now will be fair; it will take all of those
slices and do something.

Q: The President is - the President. Look, I'm neutral. I am an
independent journalist. I have to be. Whether you like what the President did or
don't like it, it is one of the gutsiest calls in history.

Rumsfeld: It sure is.

Q: It is a pivot point in history. He is entitled to a fair clean shot.

Rumsfeld: That's right, absolutely. I remember sitting down writing
one memo on everything that could go wrong.

Q: That's what I'd love to get a copy of.

Rumsfeld: I ended up sitting in an NSC meeting. I made notes while I
was sitting there and I listed off 10 or 15 things, and said, “Look, before we go
another step we ought to think about all of these things.”

Q: General Myers said he had it on his desk for a long time.

Rumsfeld: Is that right? Then I headed back, and dictated it. Then I
edited it and sent it the President, and to the NSC members, and to Myers. The fact
that it took the deployment process and disaggregated it to support the diplomacy
was never really understood out there. I didn't want to say that's what we were
doing, so we sat there and took the hit. Good, okay.

Q: I thank you.

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 04:59 PM

.... Transcript is too long to be properly formatted.

This is the web version:

http://www.defenselink.mil/transcripts/2004/tr20040419-secdef1362.html

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 05:29 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Monday Apr. 19, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 338-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 19, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Monday, April 19, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Monday, April 19, 2004

CONTRACTS

ARMY

AM General Corp., South Bend, Ind., was awarded on April 16, 2004, a
$118,219,741 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for procurement of 1,471
M1114 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles. Work will be performed in
South, Bend, Ind., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2007. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole
source contract initiated on July 17, 2000. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and
Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-S001).

General Dynamics Land Systems Inc., Sterling Heights, Mich., was
awarded on April 16, 2004, a $24,300,000 modification to a cost-plus-fixed-fee
contract for System Technical Support for the Abrams Tank Program. Work will be
performed in Sterling Heights, Mich., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 30,
2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This
was a sole source contract initiated on Nov. 23, 2001. The U.S. Army
Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity
(DAAE07-01-C-N075).

Simula Aerospace & Defense Group, Phoenix, Ariz., was awarded on April
16, 2004, a $13,177,402 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for 271 Heavy
Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck Crew Protection Kits and 541 Palletized Load
System Crew Protection Kits and development of Crew Protection Kits for the Heavy
Equipment Transporter and the M915 Truck Series. Work will be performed in
Phoenix, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 7, 2004. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on Jan. 27, 2004. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments
Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-04-C-0259).

Oshkosh Truck Corp., Oshkosh, Wis., was awarded on April 16, 2004, a
$10,730,505 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for Installation of Crew
Protection Kits and Air Conditioning Kits for the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical
Truck and Palletized Load System. Work will be performed in Kuwait (58 percent)
and Oshkosh, Wis. (42 percent), and is expected to be completed by Dec. 30, 2004.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a
sole source contract initiated on Feb. 25, 2004. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and
Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-04-C-0323).

Calibre Systems, Alexandria, Va., was awarded on April 16, 2004, a
delivery order amount of $250,000 as part of a $200,000,000 firm-fixed-price
contract for various services associated to maintain Army Ranges and Land assets.
Work will be performed in various locations throughout the United States and its
territories, and is expected to be completed by April 30, 2009. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown
number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Nov. 25, 2003, and four bids
were received. The U.S. Army Contracting Agency, Fort Eustis, Va., is the
contracting activity (W911S0-04-D-0002).

Parsons Infrastructure Technology Group, Pasadena, Calif., was awarded
on April 16, 2004, a delivery order amount of $250,000 as part of a $200,000,000
firm-fixed-price contract for various services associated to maintain Army Ranges
and Land assets. Work will be performed in various locations throughout the United
States and its territories, and is expected to be completed by April 30, 2009.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were
an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Nov. 25, 2003, and
four bids were received. The U.S. Army Contracting Agency, Fort Eustis, Va., is
the contracting activity (W911S0-04-D-0003).

NAVY

BAE Systems Advanced Technologies Inc., Washington, D.C., is being
awarded a $35,351,790 firm-fixed-fee delivery order under previously awarded
indefinite-delivery/indefinite quantity contract (N00014-02-D-0479) to manufacture
high frequency transmitters for installation in the High Frequency Active Auroral
Research Program (HAARP) Gakoma Facility phased array antenna system. The
transmitters will be tested for proper performance in accordance with contract
specifications and shipped to the HAARP facility. Work will be performed in
Dallas, Texas (72.4 percent) and Washington, D.C. (27.6 percent) and, is expected
to be completed in June 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. The Office of Naval Research, Washington, D.C., is the
contracting activity.

Charles Stark Draper Laboratory Inc., Cambridge, Mass. is being awarded
a not-to-exceed $11,795,276 modification to a previously awarded
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N00421-02-D-3092) to exercise an
option for research and engineering services in support of the Naval Air Systems
Command Aircraft Division’s Science and Technology Department. Work will be
performed in Patuxent River, Md. and is expected to be completed in March 2005.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. The Naval Air
Systems Command Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity

SierraTech Inc., Sierra Research Division, Buffalo, N.Y., is being
awarded an $8,138,835 modification to previously awarded contract
(N00024-02-C-4008) for production of three AN/USQ-82 (V) Fiber Optic Data Multiplex
Systems (FODMS). The AN/USQ-82 (V) FODMS is a modular general purposes
multiplexing system capable of transferring the majority of internal data signals
found aboard DDG-51 Class ships. Work will be performed in Buffalo, N.Y., and is
expected to be completed by April 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the end
of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is
the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

Wolverine Worldwide Inc., Rockland, Mich., is being awarded a $5,516,906 firm fixed
price type of contract for boots for the U.S. Marine Corps. Performance completion
date is expected to be May 11, 2005. Contract funds will expire at the end of this
fiscal year. There were two proposals solicitation and one responded. The
contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa.
(SP0100-04-C-00398).

AIR FORCE

The Boeing Co., Seal Beach, Calif., is being awarded a $5,000,257
cost-plus-award-fee contraction modification. This modification consists of an
increase in the number of hours authorized for calendar year 2004 sustainment
efforts for Level 2 software maintenance and deport hardware maintenance.
Additionally, it provides for a decrease in the number of hours authorized for
calendar year 2004 and hardware engineering support at remote sites. At this time
the total amount of funds has been obligated. This work will be completed by
December 2004. The Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base,
Calif., is the contracting activity (F04701-96C-0025, P00294).

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 07:09 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 339-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 19, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Dennis B. Morgan, 22, of Valentine, Neb., died April 17 in
Iskandariyah, Iraq, when his armored personnel carrier hit an improvised explosive
device. Morgan was assigned to the Army National Guard's 153rd Engineer Battalion,
Winer, S.D.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 08:06 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 340-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 19, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Marvin A. Camposiles, 25, of Austell, Ga., died April 17, in
Samarra, Iraq, when he was electrocuted while performing routine generator
maintenance. Spc. Camposiles was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 26th
Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 08:41 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 341-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 19, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Clayton W. Henson, 20, of Stanton, Texas, died April 17, in
Dwaniyan, Iraq, when his convoy was ambushed. Pfc. Henson was assigned to the
Army's 1st Squadron, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Polk, La.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 11:06 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 342-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 19, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

1st Lt. Robert L. Henderson, II, 33, of Alvaton, Ky., died April 17,
in, Diwaniyah, Iraq, when his convoy tried to avoid an overturned trailer and came
under small arms attack. 1st Lt. Henderson was assigned to the Army National
Guard's Detachment 1, 2123rd Transportation Company, Owensboro, Ky.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-19-2004, 11:06 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 343-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 19, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Sgt. Jonathan N. Hartman, 27, of Jacksonville, Fla., died April 17, in
Dwaniyan, Iraq, when his convoy was ambushed. Sgt. Hartman was assigned to the
Army's 2nd Battalion, 37th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Friedburg,
Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-20-2004, 10:07 AM

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 20, 2004 -- A new exhibit at the Airborne & Special
Operations Museum in downtown Fayetteville, N.C., features hundreds of vivid
photos and artifacts that show the contributions of airborne and special
operations soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan.

<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="right" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> <TD
align="left">high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404201a.jpg] available.
</font></table>

The 15,000-square-foot exhibit, "Soldiers: The Global War on Terrorism,"
attracted almost 13,000 visitors within the first three weeks of its opening in
March, according to Sandy Klotz, executive director for the Airborne & Special
Operations Museum Foundation. The exhibit is scheduled to remain on display
through the year's end.

The exhibit tells the story of airborne and special operations soldiers
supporting Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom through hundreds of
dramatic photos, many taken by U.S. service members and projected on wide-
screen televisions scattered throughout the exhibit. The photos capture
soldiers in the heat of battle, interacting with local residents, grieving the
loss of a comrade.

"These pictures show that the American soldier is a compassionate human being
who wants to help people," said museum director John Duvall.

Artifacts displayed throughout the exhibit also help tell the story of the war
on terror: from a scrap of wreckage rescued from the World Trade Center towers
at the entranceway to a life-size re-creation of a special operations base camp
in the theater to an overhead display of leaflets readied for airdrop to help
win the hearts and minds of the local population.

The exhibit also features items brought home by redeploying troops, including a
ceremonial helmet worn by an Iraqi Republican Guard soldier, an Iraqi special
forces uniform and beret and a Russian-made rocket-propelled grenade.

A huge screen at the back of the exhibit flashes news clips of dramatic moments
in the war on terror.

Duvall said the goal of the exhibit is to help the public understand the myriad
contributions soldiers are making to Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi
Freedom. "We want them to feel a sense of pride about what these people are
doing," he said.

During the exhibit's opening ceremony, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Peter J.
Schoomaker praised its role in educating the public about the role U.S.
soldiers play in the war on terror.

President Bush recognized the museum's opening in a letter. "Your exhibit
depicting the daily lives our of soldiers serving in Operation Enduring Freedom
and Iraqi Freedom will help museum visitors understand our soldiers' commitment
to our country and their legacy of patriotism," the president wrote.

The exhibit is just one attraction at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum,
a veritable "Taj Mahal" in downtown Fayetteville that has attracted more than
700,000 visitors since it opened in 2000, according to Klotz. The museum,
located just off interstate I-95, has become one of North Carolina's top 10
attractions, she said.

John Duvall called the decision to base the museum not on nearby Fort Bragg but
off post, where it is more accessible to the public, "a brilliant move" that he
expects will be duplicated by other military museums.

The museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays
from noon to 5 p.m. It is closed all Mondays except federal holidays.

Biography:
Gen. Peter J.
Schoomaker [http://www.army.mil/leaders/leaders/csa/biography.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Airborne & Special Operations Museum
Foundation [http://www.asomf.org/]
Fort Bragg, N.C. [http://www.bragg.army.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-20-2004, 10:22 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Terror War Demonstrates Need to Update Doctrine
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 20, 2004 -- Current military doctrine needs an overhaul to
better address the challenges confronting U.S. forces in Afghanistan and Iraq,
the commander of the 18th Airborne Corps told the American Forces Press Service
last week at the corps headquarters at Fort Bragg, N.C.

<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="right" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> <TD
align="left">high-resolution
image [/news/Apr2004/200404202a.jpg] available. </font></table>

Army Lt. Gen. John R. Vines, commander of the Defense Department's largest
warfighting organization, said current doctrine falls short in addressing the
circumstances in which U.S. troops operate in Southwest Asia.

"We are so far beyond where the doctrine is in terms of how we operate that the
doctrine can only be a broad guide," Vines said. "Doctrine was not designed
with Afghanistan in mind. So consequently, what was written at (the Army's
Training and Doctrine Command at) Fort Monroe or the Special Warfare Center (at
Fort Bragg) or some other place didn't envision the complexity of what we are
doing there."

This complex, non-linear battlefield has little resemblance to the Cold War
model on which much of today's doctrine is based. Vines said it frequently
provides no clear-cut distinctions between phases of warfare under way or the
types of troops conducting operations. Also, U.S. military forces interact
regularly with a wide range of noncombatants, including various U.S. government
elements, nongovernmental organization representatives and groups representing
the host country's central government.

"Our doctrine does not adequately address the control of this," said Vines, who
commanded Coalition Joint Task Force 82 and Combined Joint Task Force 180 in
Afghanistan from September 2002 to October 2003.

Vines said doctrine assumes what he calls "the old paradigm" that warfare is
conducted one phase at a time — with stability operations that include building
schools and digging wells kicking off only after combat operations have ceased.
"The reality is that in a single piece of battle space, we might have three or
four phases going on simultaneously," he said.

Military doctrine also fails to address adequately the heavy use of different
special operations forces or the integral association between conventional and
special operations forces on the ground, he said. Over the years, an
"artificial barrier" developed between the two forces, Vines said, but that in
reality, they work side by side, complementing each other's capabilities.

He said this mix of conventional and special operations forces as well as
militia have proven to be "extraordinarily effective" in Afghanistan.

Vines said doctrine needs to address another battlefield complexity better than
it does: the presence of a wide range of parties, most of them noncombatants.
These include not just local civilians, but also representatives of
nongovernmental organizations and interagency teams that are part of the U.S.
government. In Afghanistan, Vines said, coalition forces also work with the
Afghan National Army as well as militia members who received favored status by
the Afghan government because they supported President Hamid Kharzai in
fighting the Taliban.

"So occasionally, figuring out who you are dealing with becomes the challenge,"
said Vines. "You have to determine, does this militia have the support and
authorization of the government? It isn't always easy to do."

Vines said he expects the way operations are being carried out in Afghanistan
and Iraq to have a big influence on future operations. Ultimately, they too,
could be incorporated into future doctrine. These include a wide mix of
aviation units flying in the same battle space, the integration of Reserve and
National Guard units into missions, and the use of special operations forces to
do things he said "I'm not even sure their founders 60 years ago could have
visualized."

One shortcoming Vines said needs to be addressed better is information
operations — the ability of U.S. forces to use information to win the hearts
and minds of the local population.

"If their only information comes from a mullah who is preaching hate against
Westerners, Christians, Americans, the coalition, and that is their only source
of information, then they will accept it at face value," Vines said. "So we
have to put the facts out in a way that they say, 'Listen, the neighboring
village was rebuilt, there has never been a road here before, and now there's a
road.' Then they see the value of working together to rebuild their country."

Vines said mastering information operations will go a long way toward
influencing people "to lay down their weapons and quit fighting and rebuild
their country." But for now, he said, "We don't do that nearly as well as we
could."

Biography:
Lt. Gen. John R. Vines [http://www.bragg.army.mil/18abn/cg.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
18th Airborne Corps [http://www.bragg.army.mil/18abn/]
Fort Bragg, N.C. [http://www.bragg.army.mil/]
Training and Doctrine Command [http://www-tradoc.army.mil/]
Special Warfare
Center [http://www.soc.mil/swcs/swcs_default.shtml]

Seoulstriker

04-20-2004, 11:38 AM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 344-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 20, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of four Marines who
were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Capt. Richard J. Gannon II, 31, of Escondido, Calif.

Lance Cpl. Michael J. Smith Jr., 21, of Jefferson, Ohio.

Lance Cpl. Ruben Valdez Jr., 21, of San Diego, Texas.

Lance Cpl. Gary F. VanLeuven, 20, of Klamath Falls, Ore.

All four Marines died April 17 due to injuries received from enemy action
in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. They were assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine
Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, at Twentynine Palms,
Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact Marine Corps Air
Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms Public Affairs Office at (760) 830-5472.

Seoulstriker

04-20-2004, 02:06 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Patriot Act Vital to Protect Americans, Says President
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 20, 2004 – Ensuring the safety of the public is a
government's top responsibility, President Bush said April 19. And the USA
Patriot Act allows governments at all levels to protect their citizens.

During a speech in Hershey, Pa., Bush explained that Americans' thinking on how
to protect this country changed after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
People realized "the best way to secure our homeland … is to go on the
offensive against the terrorist network(s)," he said.

Early in his speech, Bush said he was honored to meet former Army Maj. ****
Winters, who was present. The HBO miniseries "Band of Brothers" was based on
the World War II platoon Winters led in Europe.

The war on terrorism is "a different kind of war than the war that Maj. Winters
fought in," Bush said. "This is a war against people who will hide in a cave …
and then they strike and kill … innocent people.

"They have … no conscience," he added. "They have no sense of guilt."

Bush urged lawmakers to extend permanently the USA Patriot Act, which is due to
expire next year. He called the law, which passed easily after the Sept. 11
attacks, "an important piece of legislation" that is making America safer.

He described four specific areas in which the Patriot Act is helping law
enforcement and intelligence officials.

<li type=disc> Roving wiretaps. Bush said that before the Patriot Act went into
effect, law enforcement officials had the authority to use so-called "roving
wiretaps" – which allow for officials to follow the subject of the court-
ordered wiretap from one phone to another – to investigate organized crime and
drug dealers but not to investigate terrorists.

"Terrorists could switch phones and we couldn't follow them," Bush said. "The
Patriot Act changed that."

<li type=disc> Delayed-notification search warrants. Such warrants, allow law
enforcement personnel, with court approval, to carry out lawful searches
without tipping off subjects and giving them a chance to flee or destroy
evidence, Bush said.

"Before September the 11th, the standards for these kinds of warrants were
different around the country. It made it hard to have kind of a national
strategy to chase down what might be a terrorist group," he said. "The Patriot
Act provided a clear national standard and now allows these warrants to be used
in terrorism cases."

<li type=disc> Obtaining business and financial records. The president said
that before the Patriot Act it was easier for investigators to "chase the money
trail" of white-collar criminals than of suspected terrorists.

"The Patriot Act ended this double standard and made it easier for
investigators to catch suspected terrorists by following paper trails here in
America," Bush said.

<li type=disc> Tougher sentences. The Patriot Act strengthened penalties for
crimes committed by terrorists, such as arson or attacks on power plants or
mass-transit systems, Bush said.

"We needed to send a signal at the very minimum that our laws are going to be
tough on (terrorists)," he said.

And it's working.

Bush described an incident from 2001 in which the Patriot Act was credited with
stopping a terrorist cell in Portland, Oregon. A federal prosecutor had
evidence a local man was planning attacks on Jewish schools and synagogues and
on American troops overseas.

Interdepartmental cooperation made possible by the USA Patriot Act allowed the
initial information to reach the FBI and various intelligence services. "See,
the Patriot Act allowed for unprecedented cooperation," Bush said.

Surveillance tools enacted by the Patriot Act allowed the FBI to eventually
learn the man was part of a seven-member terrorist cell, which has since been
interrupted. "The Patriot Act gave local and federal law enforcement officials
… the capacity to better understand the intelligence and to better understand
the nature of the terrorist cell," Bush said.

Since the Patriot Act has been enacted, officials have dismantled terrorist
cells in Oregon, New York, North Carolina and Virginia; prosecuted terrorist
operatives and supporters in California, Ohio, Texas and Florida; and frozen or
seized $200 million in terrorists' assets around the world, Bush said.

In calling on the Congress to make the act permanent, Bush noted the terrorists
declared war on the United States. "Congress must give law enforcement all the
tools necessary to protect the American people," he said.

Bush also proposed several more measures he'd like Congress to authorize "to
strengthen authorities and penalties to defend our homeland."

<li type=disc> Administrative subpoenas. "This is the authority to request
certain types of time-sensitive records without the delay of going through a
judge or grand jury," Bush said.

He explained such subpoenas are used in law enforcement today to investigate
healthcare fraud. "If the American people expect us to do our jobs," he said,
"it seems like we ought to have the very same tools necessary to run down a bad
doc as to run down a terrorist."

<li type=disc> Limiting bail for terrorist-related crimes. Judges have the
leeway to withhold bail from individuals charged with a host of crimes, but
terrorism isn't on the list. "Think about what that means," Bush said.
"Suspected terrorists could be released, free to leave the country or worse,
before their trial. …

"If a dangerous drug dealer can be held without bail, the Congress should allow
the same treatment for terrorists."

<li type=disc> Applying the death penalty for convicted terrorists. Under
existing law, some terrorist-related crimes that result in the deaths of others
are not eligible for the death penalty.

"We ought to be sending a strong signal (to terrorists)," Bush said. "If you
sabotage a defense installation or a nuclear facility in a way that takes an
innocent life, you ought to get the death penalty."

Bush noted the United States is an open society that values freedom, and this
makes us more vulnerable to terrorist attacks.

"And there's only (one) path to safety, and that's the path of action," he
said. "We must continue to stay on the offense when it comes to chasing these
killers down and bringing them to justice. And we will."

Related Site:
The Patriot Act [http://www.lifeandliberty.gov/]

Seoulstriker

04-20-2004, 02:06 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 345-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 20, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Flag Officer Assignments

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Vern Clark announced the following flag
officer assignments:

Navy Rear Adm. Evan M. Chanik, Jr., is being assigned as director,
Programming Division, N80, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Arlington, Va.
Chanik is currently serving as commander, Carrier Group Three, Bremerton, Wash.

Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) David A. Gove is being assigned as
commander, Navy Region Northeast/commander, Submarine Group Two, Groton, Conn.
Gove is currently assigned as deputy director for Global Operations, J3, Joint
Staff, Arlington, Va.

Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Robert D. Reilly, Jr., is being assigned as
deputy for Command, Control, Communications and Computers, Integration (C4I) and
Policy, N6F/Department Of the Navy deputy communications and information officer.
Reilly is currently assigned as commander, Cruiser Destroyer Group Two, Norfolk, Va.

Seoulstriker

04-20-2004, 02:07 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Insurgents Attack From Mosque as Fallujah Peace Talks Continue
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, APRIL 20, 2004 -- Even as coalition and Iraqi officials are trying
to move forward with peace talks in Fallujah, U.S. Central Command reported
today that insurgents attacked coalition forces from a mosque in the city April
18.

A CENTCOM news release reported that anti-coalition forces fired on the crew of
an M1-A1 tank from a building next to the mosque. The tank crew returned fire,
destroying the building and killing an insurgent who was armed with a rocket-
propelled grenade, the news release said.

At the same time, CENTCOM reported, a nearby group of Marines came under sniper
fire from the minaret of the mosque. They returned fire, and no further hostile
fire came from the mosque, the news release said. Also in Fallujah on April 18,
anti-Iraqi forces repeatedly engaged Marines with small-arms fire, and after a
short battle, the Marines neutralized this threat, CENTCOM reported.

Today in Baghdad, senior Coalition Provisional Authority spokesman Dan Senor
emphasized that full-scale fighting would ensue if peace talks fail and
insurgents don't honor the agreed-upon cease-fire in Fallujah. "We
communicated to all parties (April 19) that we are very serious about these
talks," he said. "We are very serious about a peaceful resolution to the
situation in Fallujah, but everybody must recognize that in the absence of a
true cease-fire, major hostilities will return on short notice."

Meanwhile, Senor said, the coalition has begun working on implementing a number
of issues agreed upon in the cease-fire.

Those agreements include unfettered access to the Fallujah hospital, removal
and burial of the dead, provisions to allow food and medicine to isolated area
of the city, changing the curfew from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., and allowing for the
passage of official ambulances into the city. The coalition also will begin
allowing some 50 Fallujian families per day back into the city.

Senor said critical components of the agreement include the turn-in of heavy
weapons and the resumption of regular joint patrols between coalition and Iraqi
Civil Defense Corps forces. He emphasized it's incumbent on all parties to work
toward the removal of foreign fighters and criminals who are using the city as
a base of operations for violence and terrorist acts in Iraq.

Meanwhile, Marines operating near the Iraqi border town of Husaybah came under
further attack by enemy forces April 19, CENTCOM reported. The Marines detained
two people after their vehicle attempted to run a checkpoint on a road leading
out of the city. During continued operations in the city, Marines have detained
up to 60 suspects, the news release said.

Marines operating near Ramadi raided a suspect building and recovered 40 82 mm
mortars, one 100 mm round, one Russian-made sniper rifle and 500 7.62 mm
rounds, the news release said. CENTCOM also reported that soldiers from the
Army's 1st Brigade Combat Team, assigned to the 1st Marine Division, captured
four enemy fighters from two separate locations in coordinated raids near
Ramadi. They recovered three AK-47 assault rifles, ammunition magazines, and
improvised explosive device and mortar equipment.

At a Baghdad news conference today, military spokesman Army Brig. Gen. Mark
Kimmitt said that the coalition and Iraqi police are investigating the shooting
deaths of two employees of the Al-Iraqiyah television network April 19 by U.S.
soldiers in Samara. Another person was wounded, and a fourth, an Iraqi police
officer, was unharmed, Kimmitt said.

Soldiers saw the individuals filming Iraqi Civil Defense Corps and Iraqi police
checkpoints, a coalition base and routes to and from the locations, and fired
warning shots, Kimmitt said.

"After the warning shots were neglected," he continued, "the individuals got
into their vehicle and drove towards the coalition base. As the vehicle
approached the base, additional warning shots were fired in an attempt to halt
the vehicle."

Kimmitt said the driver apparently disregarded the warning shots and drove
toward the soldiers and the base. "After more warning shots," the general said,
"the vehicle did stop and (then) continued to approach the base's gate, and was
engaged with direct fire."

As part of the coalition's force-protection efforts, the general said, five
signs are posted in the area clearly prohibiting filming and stopping near the
base.

Kimmitt said he could not confirm initial reports that as many as 18 mortar
rounds were fired earlier in the evening at the Baghdad confinement facility.
He said that preliminary reports state that as many as 21 prisoners may have
been killed in the attack, but he cautioned reporters that early accounts often
are wrong.

Offensive and stability operations continue throughout Iraq, Kimmitt said, but
the past 24 hours have remained quiet, despite several small-arms, RPG and
mortar attacks. Several coalition soldiers and Iraqi security forces were
wounded during anti-coalition attacks, but no deaths were reported, he added.

Kimmitt provided details on the following operations and events from the 24
hours leading up to today's news conference:

In Mosul, four people who attacked the city's police headquarters with RPGs and
small-arms fire were apprehended. Coalition forces also detained five people
suspected of attacks in southeastern Mosul overnight. In Tall Afar, a coalition
soldier was wounded during a grenade attack on a patrol. The patrol returned
fire and apprehended two assailants.

West of Irbil, ICDC soldiers discovered a large IED on the main road to Mosul.
In Baquba, four coalition soldiers were wounded after three IED explosive
attacks.

In Baghdad, 1st Calvary Division soldiers conducted three cordon-and-search
operations for weapons dealers, and detained three suspects.

Five attacks on coalition elements were reported in the western zone of
operations

In Fallujah, a single reported attack caused no casualties or damage. And in
Ramadi, one attack occurred and left three Marines wounded.

In Karbala, insurgents used machine guns and RPGs to attack a U.S. military
police patrol, but not injuries were reported. In Hillah, an area that has been
relatively stable, the first attack in weeks occurred when U.S. soldiers came
under mortar fire and later were targeted by an RPG attack. No injuries were
reported in either attack.
East of Kufah, a platoon-size element of enemy fighters ambushed a coalition
patrol. Two U.S. soldiers were evacuated to the 31st Combat Support Hospital
with non-life threatening injuries. In Basrah, two attacks against Iraqi and
coalition forces that left an Iraqi police officer wounded.

Kimmitt also praised the performance of the 36th ICDC Battalion during recent
combat operations in Fallujah.

He said the battalion, fighting alongside the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force,
distinguished itself as a "trustworthy and capable" force, and will serve as a
benchmark for other ICDC units.

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Cease-Fire Agreement Reached
In Fallujah; 13 U.S. troops Killed In Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04192004_200404192.html]

Seoulstriker

04-20-2004, 02:50 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Fear Still Biggest Problem in Iraq, Wolfowitz Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 20, 2004 – The biggest problem facing Iraq is that fear of
the former regime still pervades the country, Deputy Defense Secretary Paul
Wolfowitz said here today.

Wolfowitz and Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of
Staff, testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Wolfowitz told the senators that a "blanket of fear woven by 35 years of
repression where even the smallest mistake could bring torture or death" won't
go away in a few months, or even in a year or two. He said the "torturers and
murderers" of the former regime still are active in Iraq, as many members of
Saddam Hussein's intelligence branches are launching attacks against coalition
targets and Iraqis who support a new free Iraq.

Even in Fallujah and other areas of the so-called Sunni Triangle, Wolfowitz
said, average Iraqis do not support the former regime murderers. The former
regime elements rule by fear and intimidation, and do not constitute "an enemy
that has genuine popular appeal," he said.

Both Wolfowitz and Myers stressed that the United States has the will and
resolve to see operations in Iraq through. "We are hitting the enemy very hard,
and we are devastating them," Myers said. "But our troops are also very
compassionate. Their strength of character in the end, I believe, will be a
major factor in determining Iraq's future."

Life for the average Iraqi is improving, Wolfowitz said. For example, he noted,
the coalition spends roughly 30 times what the former regime spent on health
care. Coalition and Iraqi engineers are rehabilitating the oil infrastructure,
and Iraq now ships roughly 2 million barrels of crude per day, he added.

Wolfowitz told the committee that Iraq's electrical infrastructure – burdened
with outdated equipment and procedures – is being rehabilitated, and that
electricity now exceeds pre-war levels and is more equitably distributed.

The coalition will stay the course, he said, but it must make some changes.
Building the Iraqi security forces is one portion of the strategy. During
operations in Fallujah and violence in the south inspired by radical cleric
Muqtada al-Sadr, some Iraqi security forces did very well, while others didn't,
Wolfowitz said. "The problem is our slowness in getting equipment to the
field," the deputy secretary said. In some cases, the enemy outgunned the Iraqi
security forces. "This is a problem we can fix and we will," he added.

Other more long-term fixes are needed in the security forces, Wolfowitz told
the committee. First, the forces need stronger leaders. Second, the Iraq
security forces need an Iraqi rallying point. "They need to feel … that they
are fighting for Iraq, not the Americans," he said.

Another portion of the coalition strategy in Iraq is "nurturing Iraq's capacity
for representative self-government with the aim of creating a government the
Iraqi people will think is theirs and that moves us out of the position of
being an occupying power," Wolfowitz said. This process will continue for a
good way past the return of sovereignty to the Iraqi people June 30, he
emphasized.

Wolfowitz cited progress as Iraq moves toward self-rule. "Already, free Iraqis
have been assuming responsibility of some government functions," the deputy
secretary said. He noted the country now has a functioning judiciary, and that
local and provincial elected assemblies are up and running.

Though the June 30 transfer of sovereignty marks an important date, Wolfowitz
said, other dates also are important. The return of sovereignty will be
followed up in January with elections to establish a transitional government,
and that will be replaced by permanent elected government under a constitution
by the end of 2005, he said.

Biographies:
Deputy Defense Secretary Paul
Wolfowitz [/bios/wolfowitz_bio.html]
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
Senate Armed Services
Committee [http://armed-services.senate.gov/]

Seoulstriker

04-20-2004, 05:47 PM

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 346-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 20, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Tuesday, April 20, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Tuesday, April 20, 2004

CONTRACTS

NAVY

Raytheon Technical Services Co., LLC, Norfolk, Va., is being awarded a
cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with a
potential value of $237,009,454 for Integrated Ship Defense Systems Engineering
Services. This procurement is to provide engineering and technical services in
support of Integrated Ship Defense Systems Engineering for the Ship Defense &
Expeditionary Warfare Department (Code S) in its role as the In Service Engineering
Agent for the Self Defense Systems aboard U.S. Navy Ships, land based test sites,
and Foreign Military Sales customers. Work will be performed in Port Hueneme,
Calif., (40 percent), onboard East Coast ships (30 percent), and onboard West Coast
ships (30 percent), and is expected to be completed in May 2014. Contact funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was
competitively procured via Federal Business Opportunity site and four offers were
received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division, Port Hueneme,
Calif., is the contracting activity (N63394-04-D-1259).

Darlington Inc., Arlington, Va., is being awarded a $19,262,636
firm-fixed-price delivery order under a previously awarded basic
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (M67854-01-D-2006) for eight Joint
Enhanced Core Communication Systems (JECCS). The JECCS provides telecommunication
services, Local Area Network (SIPR and NIPR) and network management services,
messaging services, INMARSAT, and UHF-TACSAT capabilities for a Marine
Expeditionary Unit (MEU). Work will be performed in Wando, S.C., and is expected
to be completed April 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured as a 100 percent
Small Business Set-aside; the solicitation released electronically, with one offer
received. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting
activity (Order 0009).

Rockwell Collins Government Systems Inc., Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is being
awarded a $14,249,902 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-priced
contract (N00019-02-C-3004) to exercise an option for 10 RT-1556B Receiver
Transmitters for the Navy (8) and the Air Force (2), 36 RT-1794(c) Receiver
Transmitters for the Navy (34) and the Army (2), 186 RT-1824 (c) Receiver
Transmitters for the Navy, and 21 RT-1851 (c) Receiver Transmitters for the Navy.
Work will be performed in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is expected to be completed in
December 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal
year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting
activity.

Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $6,524,836
cost-plus-fixed-fee modification under previously awarded contract
(N00024-99-C-5473) to exercise an option for FY04 Evolved SEASPARROW Missile (ESSM)
production support. Raytheon and a consortium of European participating companies
were funded for the Low-Rate Initial Production of the ESSM and associated
production support. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. (35.7 percent);
Andover, Mass. (8.9 percent); Camden, Ark. (2.9 percent); Minneapolis, Minn. (1.5
percent); Australia (12 percent); Germany (10 percent); The Netherlands (9
percent); Toronto, Canada (7 percent); Norway (4 percent); Spain (3 percent);
Denmark (2 percent); Greece (2 percent) and Turkey (2 percent), and is expected to
be completed by December 2004. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the
contracting activity.

AIR FORCE

Pacific Consolidated Industries LP, Santa Ana, Calif., is being awarded
a $13,846,976 firm fixed price contract to provide for Self-Generating Nitrogen
Service Carts-352 each. Mobile carts that manufactures nitrogen gas at 95 percent
purity to service tires, struts, and accumulators for most airframes. The NSN is
3655-01-463-3338RN. Total funds have been obligated. This work will be complete
by October 2005. The Headquarters Robins Air Logistics Center, Robins Air Force
Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (F41608-98-D-0015-RJ04).

Northrop Grumman Information Technology Inc., Reston, Va., is being
awarded a $10,000,000 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to provide
for Research, Development, Testing and Support Program for Automated Targeting
Evolution to continue development and enhancement of targeting functionality of the
Joint Targeting Automated software and perform additional development towards full
automation of all needed targeting capabilities to support all elements of the
targeting cycle. No funds have been obligated. This work will be completed by
September 2005. The Air Force Research Laboratory, Rome, N.Y., is the contracting
activity (F30602-00-D-0012).

GKN Aerospace Chem-Tronics, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a
$8,613,000 firm fixed price contract to provide for replenishment spare rear fan
ducts, 116 each, applicable to the F100/PW200/220 of the F-15/F-16 aircraft. Total
funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by March 2005. Solicitation
began February 2004 and negotiations were completed March 2004. The Headquarters
Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., is the
contracting activity (FA8104-04-C-0094).

Science Applications International Corp., San Diego, Calif., is being
awarded an $8,549,283 cost-plus fixed-fee contract. The purpose of this
acquisition is to develop and document new algorithmic solutions for space based
radar, investigate solutions developed elsewhere, and evaluate the performance of
the related systems through data collection and analysis, simulation, and testing.
Location of performance is the Science Applications International Corp., McLean,
Va. At this time, $492,796 of the funds have been obligated. This work will be
complete by April 2009. Solicitation began December 2002 and negotiations were
completed April 2004. The Air Force Research Laboratory, Rome, N.Y., is the
contracting activity (FA8750-04-C-0031).

Northrop Grumman Space and Mission Systems Corp., Redondo Beach,
Calif., is being awarded a $6,325,000 cost-plus award-fee contract modification.
The objective of the Architecture and System Engineering (A&SE) program is to
provide supplies and services in support of horizontal and vertical integration
among space control systems, model space control architecture capabilities, and
support future space control acquisition efforts. Northrop Grumman Mission Systems
(NGMS) will provide labor, travel, and program management necessary to implement
identified enhancements to the on-going A&SE effort. The award will be made to
NGMS as an undefinitized contract action to the existing contract. At this time,
$2,900,000 of the funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by January
2005. Negotiations were completed April 2004. The Headquarters Space and Missile
Systems Center, Los Angeles, Calif., is the contracting activity (F04701-02-C-0001,
P00108).

Seoulstriker

04-20-2004, 06:10 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 347-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 20, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Key Military Commission Officials Announced

_ _ The Department of Defense announced the names of two key military
commission officials today. Army Col. Robert L. Swann has been selected as the
chief prosecutor (succeeding Army Col. Fred Borch). Navy Lt. Susan McGarvey has
been selected as the acting military commissions judge advocate spokesperson
(succeeding Air Force Maj. John Smith).

Prior to this assignment, Swann served as the chief circuit judge for the 2nd
Judicial Circuit at Fort Campbell, Ky., and McGarvey served as the senior defense
counsel at Naval Legal Service Office Southwest in San Diego, Calif.

Borch will be departing later this summer for an assignment as the
Special Assistant to the commanding general of the Army Judge Advocate Legal Center
and School in Charlottesville, Va. Smith will be departing later this summer for
an assignment as the deputy staff judge advocate at Andrews Air Force Base, Md.

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 09:59 AM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 349-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 21, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

National Guard and Reserve Mobilized as of April 21, 2004

This week Army, Navy, and Air Force each report a decrease in the number
of reservists on active duty in support of the partial mobilization. The Marine
Corps reports a slight increase. The net collective result is 733 fewer reservists
on active duty than last week.

At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while
demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or
decrease. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial
mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 149,797; Naval Reserve
2,629; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 12,813; Marine Corps Reserve,
5,090; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 1,588. This brings the total National Guard
and Reserve on active duty to 171,917 including both units and individual
augmentees.

A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve who are currently on active
duty can be found at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Apr2004/d20040421ngr.pdf .

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 12:06 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 350-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 21, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Exercise Cobra Gold 2004 Announced

The Department of Defense announced today that the armed forces of
Thailand, Singapore, Mongolia, Philippines and the United States will conduct
exercise Cobra Gold 04 in Thailand May 13-27.

Cobra Gold 04 is a regularly scheduled joint/combined exercise and is
designed to improve U.S., Thai, Singaporean, Mongolian and Filipino combat
readiness and combined-joint interoperability, and enhance security and
humanitarian interests of our friends and allies in the region.

Cobra Gold 04 is one of the largest exercises involving U.S. forces in
the Asia-Pacific region. Training will focus on improving interoperability between
coalition forces conducting a United Nations-sponsored peace enforcement operation
in conjunction with humanitarian and disaster relief operations. As in all
previous Cobra Gold exercises, this exercise will include joint/combined land, sea
and air operations.

For media interested in covering the exercise, please contact Maj Tom
Davis, I Corps, at (253) 967-0149.

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 12:07 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Terrorists Can't Compete With Provincial Reconstruction Teams
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2004 -- The scope and scale of projects being undertaken
by provincial reconstruction teams throughout Afghanistan are among the best
defenses against terrorism in the region, according to the commander of the
18th Airborne Corps.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution
image [/news/Apr2004/200404211b.jpg] available. </font></table>

"It's something the Taliban recognizes they can't compete with," said Army Lt.
Gen. John R. Vines, who commanded coalition forces in Afghanistan from
September 2002 to October 2003. He told the American Forces Press Service last
week that these teams are increasing the central Afghan government's ability to
improve the lives of its people.

The provisional reconstruction teams are part of a U.S.-led civil-military
project intended to help Afghans build and repair damaged infrastructure like
roads, water wells and schools. They also help establish broad security by
extending the reach of the Afghan government through the country.

The first team was established in Gardez on Dec. 31, 2002. Now, 12 teams — nine
of them U.S.-led and the others led by the United Kingdom, New Zealand and NATO
-- operate in Afghanistan. Army Lt. Gen. David Barno, commander of the Combined
Forces Command Afghanistan, reported in February that plans call to have 16
teams operating by this summer.

Vines called the establishment of the teams by his predecessor in Afghanistan,
Lt. Gen. Dan McNeil, "a stroke of near genius" and said they are delivering
services that "directly affect the welfare, income and quality of life" of the
Afghan people. In many cases, PRTs are providing services never before provided
by the central government.

"In Afghanistan, the central government had never had any influence on the
daily lives of the majority of the people," Vines said. "So when a provisional
reconstruction team provides electricity to a village or, in some cases,
farming equipment, it has a huge impact on their daily lives."

Vines said Taliban members "recognizes they can't compete" with this progress.
"When there is tangible evidence that the central government has the welfare
and interest of the villages and tribes at heart, they can't compete with that,
because all that they offer is power," Vines said.

Complicating the work of the teams and the coalition in Afghanistan, Vines
said, is "a primitive road network and … the fact that many of the citizens of
Afghanistan and Pakistan don't view the international border as a border at
all."

The fact that citizens of both countries "feel they have the right and
authority to cross (the border) at will" creates a "sanctuary" for terrorists
and other "bad actors who committed operations in Afghanistan against President
(Hamid) Kharzai, the government and the coalition," particularly in Pakistan,
Vines said.

The general pointed out there's "a reasonably high probability" that Osama bin
Laden has sought refuge in this area and is tapping into the protections
offered by remote, mountainous terrain, a poor road network, and tribal and
religious loyalties. "It's an area not fundamentally governed by the government
of Pakistan. It's run by tribal leaders," Vines said. "And so consequently,
they make decisions about who to support and who to harbor."

Vines said capturing or killing bin Laden would be "symbolically very
important," but that in reality, bin Laden has "very little influence" on the
al Qaeda organization.

"We think he fundamentally does not have the capability to communicate, to
coordinate, to move around freely," Vines said. "His focus is on his own
personal survival."

Biography:
Lt. Gen. John R. Vines [http://www.bragg.army.mil/18abn/cg.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
18th Airborne
Corps [http://www.bragg.army.mil/18abn/default.htm]
Ft. Bragg, N.C. [http://www.bragg.army.mil/]
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Terror War Demonstrates Need
to Update Doctrine [/news/Apr2004/n04202004_200404202.html]
Commander Calls War on Terror
'National War for Our Survival' [/news/Apr2004/n04192004_200404194.html]
Terrorists Between Rock, Hard
Place in Afghanistan [/news/Apr2004/n04162004_200404165.html]

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 01:06 PM

From: DoD Transcripts <dltranscripts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Secretary Rumsfeld Interview with Sean Hannity and Alan Colmes, Fox News
To: DODTRANSCRIPTS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

NEWS TRANSCRIPT from the United States Department of Defense

DoD News Briefing
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld
Tuesday, April 20, 2004

SEAN HANNITY: And welcome to Hannity and Colmes. Thank you for being with us.
I’m Sean Hannity coming to you from Washington, DC, tonight. We’ll get right to
our top story: reaction to Bob Woodward’s book, “Plan of Attack: The Behind the
Scenes Account of the Bush Administration’s Decision to Invade Iraq.”

The White House is now challenging some of Woodward’s reporting, and tonight in an
exclusive interview Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, a key figure in the book,
responds.

Mr. Secretary, it’s always good to see you. Thank you for being with us.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Thank you. It’s good to be with you.

MR. HANNITY: All right, there’s this new book out. It mentions you a lot. You
haven’t had a chance to read it.

SEC. RUMSFELD: You don’t believe everything you read, do you?

MR. HANNITY: I do not believe everything I read.

SEC. RUMSFELD: I have not read it. I have skimmed some of the articles in the
papers that report on the book, but I have not had a chance to see the book.

MR. HANNITY: It was interesting, though, because I did read your interview that
you gave I believe it was September 20th.

SEC. RUMSFELD: We released it to the press.

MR. HANNITY: You released it to the press. Right. It was somewhat contentious
with Bob Woodward – a little bit.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Well, I’ve known him over the years and I’ve been interviewed for
his last book. I declined and the president asked me to please do it, so I work
for the president, so I did it. And this time I declined again and the president
asked me to do it, so I did it.

MR. HANNITY: Did you feel you were treated fairly the first time?

SEC. RUMSFELD: I never read his book, but what I read in the papers seemed to me
to be, you know, some accurate and some not. It’s the context of things and I’ve
never written a book so I can’t say that I could do better, but it’s probably a
difficult thing to do.

MR. HANNITY: Let me ask you – let’s go back to where he starts his book, which is
the day before Thanksgiving, November 21st, 2001, 72 days after 9/11 and the
president – you’re meeting with the National Security Council and his advisors and
after this meeting the president pulls you aside. Tell us what happened in that
meeting.

SEC. RUMSFELD: I don’t remember the date. I do remember that at the end of a
meeting with the president in the Situation Room – I think it was a National
Security Council meeting – the president said, I’d like to see you for a minute.
And we went off into a little room nearby the Situation Room in the White House and
he asked me what the status of the planning for contingencies in Iraq happened to
be and I responded that I had looked at it and it was in my view stale.

And I should say, however, that there have been at least four other occasions when
he has asked me to look at contingency plans and asked me the status of contingency
plans, so this was not a unique thing. That is what the Pentagon does is to
prepare contingency plans. And it’s what the president should do, and he does do,
and that is to say interest himself in them and want to feel confident that the
Department of – his Department of Defense – our country’s Department of Defense has
studied and analyzed and prepared contingency approaches for the kinds of things
that our country needs to be ready to face.

And so it was a perfectly appropriate thing for the president to be asking and it
was, as I say, not anything that was distinctively different from the three or four
or five other times he’s asked me the same question about totally different parts
of the world.

MR. HANNITY: It would almost be irresponsible if he didn’t ask.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Exactly.

MR. HANNITY: You asked – so apparently there was an opportunity – this is five
days after September 11th, the president indicated to Condoleezza Rice that while
we had to do Afghanistan first he was determined at that time, even early on, to
consider and look at the issue of Iraq and Saddam Hussein and you’re quoted as
saying that this is an opportunity to take out Saddam, we should consider it – five
days after Iraq. Did you think at that time that he was connected to the 9/11
attack?

SEC. RUMSFELD: I don’t remember ever saying anything like that and I doubt that I
did. I don’t know who suggested I did. Certainly I didn’t say anything like that
to –

MR. HANNITY: That’s actually a quote.

SEC. RUMSFELD: – to Woodward. Of course, but there are quotes all over these
books that people write that are not from the individual who said – who may or may
not have said something; they’re from somebody who either heard that somebody said
something or somebody who was in the room and is – vaguely remembers that they said
something like that, but the short answer is I don’t remember ever saying anything
like that.

Now, the context of the situation is interesting. If you think about it, the
president came in January 20th. At that moment, and before, the United States of
America’s aircraft were being fired on by Saddam Hussein. It was the only place in
the world that any country was firing on U.S. pilots and aircraft and flight crews
with impunity or near impunity, and it struck me as a bad thing that the Iraqis
were firing at British and U.S. aircraft as we were enforcing the UN resolutions in
the northern no-fly zone in Iraq and the southern no-fly zone in Iraq.

And I was, needless to say, understandably concerned about the possibility that one
of our planes would be hit, that we could end up having a crew downed, either
killed or taken hostage. So we worried through the questions of what do we do in
that case and we spent a good deal of time on a codenamed procedure that we would
undertake in the event a plane was shot down. When they were shot at, but not shot
down, we had various response options, one of which you may recall occurred when
the president was with Vicente Fox in Mexico in early February, so the president
had every reason in the world to be thinking about Iraq, as did I. And we in the
Pentagon have every reason in the world to be developing contingency plans as to
how we would deal with those various events.

MR. HANNITY: The Woodward book actually chronicles some discussions and actually
spirited debate that you had with Secretary Powell at the time over issues as
you’re describing and even over the purchase of these expensive trucks because they
could be used as cylinders to fire missiles at either American troops or over at
Israel. Do you remember those moments?

SEC. RUMSFELD: I don’t. I haven’t seen that reference and I don’t recall what
that might be referring to.

MR. HANNITY: Let me get to the point that you and Tommy Franks worked out a deal
as it relates to money because there’s been some controversy and your good friend
Senator Ted Kennedy was railing about it earlier today.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Is that right?

MR. HANNITY. Yes, he was, over what Woodward refers to as the end of July – end of
July, 2002, where $700 million would have been a large amount of money to get –
start building runways and pipelines, et cetera, and preparations in Kuwait for the
possibility or potential of war. Woodward concludes that some people could look at
a document called the Constitution, which says no money will be drawn from the
treasury without the approval of Congress. Congress was totally in the dark about
that.

Is that –

SEC. RUMSFELD: There’s a – I haven’t read his book.

MR. HANNITY: Yes.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Let’s say that he said exactly what you said he said.

MR. HANNITY: I just quoted him.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Good. That’s wrong. It’s just his – for whatever reason – has
written something that isn’t so. It is a misunderstanding of the situation. The
funds that come from the Congress under the Constitution have to be accounted for
and in this instance I am sure they were. It is – there are a whole set of
complexities as to how it’s done – what they’re authorized for. Some have quite
narrow purposes, others have much broader purposes. We have a wonderful group of
people in the (sic comptroller) shop in the Department of Defense who spend an
enormous amount of time consulting with members of the Congress and the
appropriations committees in the House and Senate and their staffs making sure that
they understand what we’re doing.

We also have the advantage of the Office of Management and Budget that we work
closely with, and before we propose anything to the Congress we go to the OMB and
they look at it and say yes they agree that that fits the law or it doesn’t.

MR. HANNITY: Would it be general war on terror, then, spending –

SEC. RUMSFELD: I don’t know what he was talking about because I haven’t read the
book, but there’s no question there were sums of money that were authorized by
Congress for various things; some more broadly, some quite narrowly, and I’m sure
that when we have a chance to go back and find out what he may or may not have been
talking about that we’ll find that the extensive consultation with Congress covered
those items.

MR. HANNITY: And coming up, more of my exclusive interview with Secretary of
Defense Donald Rumsfeld, and then terrorism, Iraq, North Korea. The world is a
very dangerous place, so who is better prepared to handle the threat: George W.
Bush or John Kerry? And then we’ll go live tonight to the war zone where our own
Oliver North is with our Marines in the city …

(Commercial break.)

ALAN COLMES: Welcome back to Hannity and Colmes. I’m Alan Colmes. Coming up
later, Oliver North joins us live from Iraq. First, the Bush administration is
refuting parts of Bob Woodward’s new book, “Plan of Attack.” We now continue with
Sean’s exclusive sit-down with Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld.

MR. HANNITY: Back to the issue of money here. Just talking off-mike for a second
here, the $700 million was Tommy Franks’ request, and specifically you recall that?

SEC. RUMSFELD: I do. I’ve been since told that General Franks came in with a
request for something in that range and our people then disaggregated those sums
and looked at them and said, well, these fit within the broader global war on
terror, these fit within things that you’re doing – the Central Command is doing
with respect to Afghanistan, and these would be totally Iraq related and we can’t
do those.

MR. HANNITY: Okay.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Without the approval of the Congress.

MR. HANNITY: So you specifically looked at what would fit under the broader war on
terror model or mode?

SEC. RUMSFELD: I’m told that that’s exactly what happened by the (sic comptroller)
shop and the Office of Management and Budget.

MR. HANNITY: There seems to be within the administration – and probably this is a
healthy thing – spirited debate as you contemplate something as complicated as a
war and sending brave American men and women to fight. But it appears in the book
of Woodward – it describes Vice President Cheney as a powerful, steamrolling force
obsessed with Saddam and taking him out and Colin Powell, the secretary of state,
saying that he had a fever about war.

Do you recall it that way?

SEC. RUMSFELD: No, I certainly don’t. (Laughter.)

MR. HANNITY: Not at all.

SEC. RUMSFELD: I guess that’s the things of which novels are made. The – all the
emotion that people can pack into a sentence like that. I mean, I was in all these
meetings I’m sure and I’ve read something in the paper yesterday that alleged that
Colin Powell was cut out of some issues or something, which just isn’t true. He
was involved all throughout the entire course of it, as he has since testified to.
But Vice President Cheney is a very measured, generally quiet, thoughtful person.
The idea of him having a fever over something just doesn’t compute for me.

MR. HANNITY: But so the idea that the president told Condoleezza Rice, told
yourself, that Cheney knew, and that somehow Colin Powell, the secretary of state,
was not told or was told after Prince Bandar –

SEC. RUMSFELD: Just not true.

MR. HANNITY: That isn’t accurate?

SEC. RUMSFELD: Can’t be. Can’t be. Now I was in so many meetings with the
president, the vice president, Colin Powell, Condi Rice, George Tenet, and Don
Rumsfeld that from the outset – I didn’t know the president had made a decision to
go to war until he indicated to me that he had, which was very, very late.

MR. HANNITY: It wasn’t in January, it was more towards March?

SEC. RUMSFELD: He was still hopeful that the UN process and the diplomacy would
lead Saddam Hussein to acquiesce and even at the last minute he proposed a – an
ultimatum to Saddam Hussein that he leave the country, hoping that war could be
averted.

MR. HANNITY: Was Secretary Powell the – more of the reluctant warrior in a – do
you remember him saying you’re going to own this place? You’ve got to understand
that.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Oh, I never heard things like that.

MR. HANNITY: Never?

SEC. RUMSFELD: But he is an able man and – as is the vice president, and there
always would be discussion and that’s healthy. The president would solicit
different views. I mean, I can remember sitting down in a meeting and presenting a
whole long list of things that could go wrong.

MR. HANNITY: Yeah.

SEC. RUMSFELD: And trying to make – as everyone did, trying to make sure that
there was a full awareness of the difficulties, the problems, and no one with any
sense rushes into war. It’s so uncertain, and we all know that.

MR. HANNITY: I did read that you had written down what the downside was from the
very beginning, but let me just give you a quote here. And he talks about this
specifically that two days before the president told Secretary Powell, **** Cheney
and you had already briefed Prince Bandar, the Saudi ambassador. That is false?

SEC. RUMSFELD: I just cannot believe that. Now I’m one person. I’m not in every
meeting that the Secretary Powell was in or every meeting that the president was
in, but I was in a meeting and I do not even remember in that meeting that Prince
Bandar was told that the president had made such a decision. I don’t remember
hearing that.

I remember the discussion and the meeting.

MR. HANNITY: And you briefed Prince Bandar?

SEC. RUMSFELD: There were four of us: Prince Bandar, the vice president, and
General Myers, and myself. And there were issues that were raised about Saudi
Arabia and various other things, but certainly I was never in a position, nor was
General Myers, to communicate a decision on the part of the president which to my
knowledge at that point he hadn’t even made.

MR. COLMES: And we’ll have more of Sean’s interview with Donald Rumsfeld later in
the show. We’ll find out what the president wanted to know before he gave the
final approval to go to war. And tomorrow night we’ll be talking to Bob Woodward
about his ne book, “Plan of Attack.” Coming up, Bush versus Kerry: who do you
think is better prepared to deal with the rest of the world as president? We’ll
talk with former Assistant Secretary of State Jamie Ruben.

(Portions of broadcast not dealing with interview of Secretary of Defense Donald
Rumsfeld deleted.)

MR. COLMES: …up to war, who was in the loop and why. And here’s more of Sean’s
exclusive interview with Donald Rumsfeld. Sean asked the defense secretary why it
was important to get countries like Saudi Arabia on board with the war plan.

MR. HANNITY: As it relates, Mr. Secretary, to Prince Bandar, why would it be
appropriate to brief him even if the decision, as you said in the last segment,
wasn’t made to go to war yet? Why would we brief him?

SEC. RUMSFELD: Well, first of all you can be sure that the – there was no way the
United States efforts in the United Nations and the diplomacy building up to the
war could be credible unless the – there were a – happened to be a flow of forces
supporting that diplomacy. As a result, the president asked the Department of
Defense to have the forces flow in a way that would be supportive of the diplomacy
– that would be credible to Saddam Hussein in the outside hope that he would decide
to cooperate with the inspectors.

To do that required the cooperation of some of the neighboring countries. That
means you had to then have discussions with them about how might we be able to use
some of your capabilities, whether it’s real estate or airfields or ports or
cooperation or overflight rights, and we had to talk to a lot of countries, which
we did, over a sustained period of many, many months. And in the course of that,
the way you do that is you meet with either the country’s leadership or their
ambassadors and obviously in the case of Prince Bandar he has a relationship here
with a great many people and we spoke to him.

MR. HANNITY: Let’s move us or take us into the decision where you have these
people who are CIA operatives within Saddam’s regime – 87 of them. And walk us
through the rock stars if you will.

SEC. RUMSFELD: I think I wouldn’t characterize them as CIA operatives.

MR. HANNITY: No? Okay.

SEC. RUMSFELD: I think they’re probably better characterized as sources.

MR. HANNITY: Okay, sources would be a better characterization.

SEC. RUMSFELD: You wouldn’t want to leave the impression that they were employees
of the Central Intelligence Agency as such.

MR. HANNITY: I stand corrected.

SEC. RUMSFELD: They may have been contacts or people that were – they were working
with.

MR. HANNITY: They had – I know they had satellite phones and we’re informing our
government.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Right. Exactly.

MR. HANNITY: But they were called or referred to as rock stars, but the decision
to take this moment of opportunity that we thought we had Saddam Hussein. Walk us
through that process.

SEC. RUMSFELD: Well, one afternoon – mid-afternoon, George Tenet came over and
said he had to see me and he walked into the office with a team of people and they
laid out on the table some intelligence they had and a possibility that they saw of
being able to attack a location – where command and control type location where
senior people in that regime were thought to be present.

We spent a good deal of time – an hour and a half or two – talking about it and
discussing it and trying to analyze it and we then decided it was worth taking over
to the president and he and I then went over with his team and, I believe, General
Myers to meet with the president. And we then had a lengthy discussion with the
president and discussed the pros and cons and the nature of the intelligence and
what its strengths and weaknesses were. He gave it a great deal of thought, asked
a great many questions, and at some moment we decided that it was worth launching
some aircraft to – because it was a good distance from where the aircraft were
located, and we could always recall the aircraft. You can’t recall a cruise
missile or something like that, but you can recall an aircraft – a piloted
aircraft, so we sent the aircraft up and they were en route before the decision was
made.

The decision was then made by the president. I went in and talked to General
Franks on the phone and authorized the strike at the president’s request, and the
strike was executed. And then, of course, some considerable time later the
information came back that he very likely had not been there. That’s the nature of
this business. It’s a tough business.

MR. HANNITY: It is a tough business. One last question: the moment when you were
in the Situation Room and you had all these monitors and General Franks, all nine
commanders were there, you were at this meeting and president asked the questions
are you ready? Do you have what you need? Are you satisfied? And they all said,
yes, sir, we’re ready. You were ready at that point. And he reports that the
president saluted, rose from his chair, and that you could see him welling up with
tears and – you know, because he was just making the decision he was going to put
American sons and daughters in harm’s way. Do you remember it that way?

SEC. RUMSFELD: I certainly remember the meeting and I remember the president
asking an additional question, and that was: can we win? He certainly asked were
they ready. He certainly asked whether they had everything they needed, and in
addition he said can we prevail – can we – will the United States and the coalition
be successful in this? And every single one of them answered affirmatively to each
of the questions.

I do remember the president saluting and I do remember him getting up. I do not
remember the emotional part of it, but it would not be surprising that a person of
his compassion and concern would recognize the significance of his decision. He’s
a very caring person.

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 03:51 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Basra Car Bombings Kill 38 Civilians, Injure 98
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2004 – A series of terror bombings in the southern Iraqi
city of Basra today killed 38 civilians while wounding 98, according to a
senior U.S. military officer.

Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt, Combined Joint Task Force 7's deputy operations
director, reported this news today from Baghdad during an interview with Laura
Ingraham on her syndicated radio program.

Twenty persons killed by the bombings were children, Kimmitt said. Car bombs
hit three Basra Iraqi police stations and a training center.

Kimmitt said the bombings also claimed the lives of five Iraqi police and
wounded 15 policemen.

Yet, despite recent acts of violence in Iraq directed against U.S. and
coalition forces and Iraqis who support them, Kimmitt noted, the coalition has
found "no shortage of volunteers" coming forward to join the Iraqi police,
Civil Defense Corps or armed forces.

Kimmitt clarified the coalition's policy that has banned most former Baathists
from joining Iraq's new armed forces, explaining that the goal is to keep high-
level members of Saddam Hussein's regime out of the military and the
government.

However, the general noted, the coalition's policy "was so encompassing it
painted with a very wide brush." Now, he explained, just the three highest
levels of former Baathists "are outlawed from participation in any of the
government functions."

Former Baathists who served at lower levels within the now-defunct regime can
now go through a vetting process, Kimmitt said, and, if successful, could
secure jobs in the new government.

On plans to arrest militant cleric Muqtada al-Sadr for his part in the alleged
murder of a fellow cleric, Kimmitt explained it's not a simple matter. Sadr "is
fairly wily" and is surrounded by thuggish bodyguards, the general
acknowledged. Sadr also has chosen to hole up in the holy city of Najaf,
Kimmitt explained, "where he knows it would create quite an incident if we were
to come in after him." Still, Kimmitt emphasized, Sadr "is going to be brought
to Iraqi justice."

Despite hardships, U.S. forces realize the gravity of their service in Iraq,
Kimmitt said.

"The mission is very, very clear," the general explained, "which is to bring a
safe, stable environment to the people of Iraq so they can move on with
democracy and can move on with sovereignty."

The general said the United States has made an investment in Iraq, which "has
the promise of becoming a shining light in the Middle East."

U.S. Marines and soldiers understand the importance of removing "the poison of
violence and extremism" from Iraqi society, Kimmitt noted, so that Iraqis "can
have a chance to stand on their own."

Related Sites:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 03:52 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 351-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 21, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who
was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Master Sgt. Herbert R. Claunch, 58, of Wetumpka, Ala., died April 18 in
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, after collapsing on the floor in his quarters. Claunch was
assigned to the Army National Guard, 217th Military Police Company, Prattville, Ala.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 03:52 PM

From: DoD Transcripts <dltranscripts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Secretary Rumsfeld and Republic of Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Tony Tan Media Stakeout
To: DODTRANSCRIPTS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

NEWS TRANSCRIPT from the United States Department of Defense

DoD News Briefing
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld
Wednesday, April 21, 2004

Tan: … [Inaudible] Secretary Rumsfeld whom I’ve met on many occasions. We have
reinforced the excellent relationship between Singapore and the United States,
particularly in the field of defense and military relations because we need to work
together in the field. There are many areas where Singapore and the U.S. have an
interest.

Singapore supports the war on terror led by the U.S. The war on terror is taking
place on many dimensions and many views and in many countries. The focus on the
war now is in Iraq, we have focused campaigns in Afghanistan and in Iraq and we
will continue to do so within the limits of our opportunities. It’s been an
excellent relationship and we expect that this will continue to be so in the coming
year and we will work together because we have many common interests and we share
many common points of view.

Q: Is there anything specific you can say about how Singapore is helping the U.S.?

Tan: Well…

Q: … in the war on terror?

Tan: We work closely with the U.S. certainly in our part of the world. Our
closest introduction is probably with the U.S. Pacific Command because that’s in
the area of operations. We have worked with them and we have provided facilities
for the U.S. in the transits when the operations in Afghanistan and now in Iraq.
U.S. ships call regularly at Singapore. We have also provided assistance in Iraq
through the provision of police trainers, transport aircraft and landing ship tank,
within our capabilities and where we can make a useful difference.

Q: And you’re not sending anyone to Iraq?

Tan: We’ve sent transport aircraft.

Q: Secretary Rumsfeld?

Rumsfeld: I would also add then that our two countries have cooperated in the
global war on terror in some other ways in terms of flying flights and in terms of
ship calls, port visits, in terms of sharing intelligence and in a variety of
ways. It is a very close, not just military to military relationship, but a
political and economic relationship, which we value greatly.

Q: Mr. Secretary, did you ask the DPM whether Singapore could send any troops –
boots on the ground in Iraq?

Rumsfeld: No. We didn’t. We talked about all they are already doing and how much
we value that and appreciate that.

Q: [Inaudible] Saudi Arabia today and perhaps one comment on the war on terror
possibly in Southeast Asia now [Inaudible] in terms of winning the battle against
these terrorists?

Rumsfeld: Well, as you know, a terrorist can attack any time, any place, using any
technique and they do it. They go about killing innocent men, women and children
and not just in Saudi Arabia, but also in Indonesia and every corner of the globe –
in Western Europe and the United States and most recently in Spain as well.

It points up, it seems to me, the challenge that responsible civilized countries
face. They have to cooperate very closely and recognize that it is not possible to
defend in every place at every moment of the day or night, against every
conceivable type of attack. Therefore, the only choice is to take the battle to
the terrorists, to find those terrorist networks, to share intelligence, to bring
all elements of national power to bear and make it more difficult for them to raise
money to move money, to physically move around within a country, to cross borders
between countries and keep raising the costs to them. And that’s what’s been going
on.

There hasn’t been a day that’s gone by where this very broad and deep coalition of
some 90 nations in the world haven’t been successful in arresting and breaking up
some terrorists somewhere on the face of the earth. And we’ll keep that up with a
great deal of resolution.

Tan: Let me add that we regard the war on terror as being a sustained one. It is
a global war. It takes place in many countries and it will be a long war. And in
that part of the world, we believe that we crippled the Jemaah Islamiyah network in
Singapore, but it does not mean it is the end of the story. We have to work – they
have terrorists in the region. We will work closely with the U.S. and with a
region of countries in order to uproot this menace to modern society.

And we are doing this in our world support of a U.S.-led coalition in the war on
terror, not because – not just because we are good friends with the U.S., although
that’s a very important message, but because we regard this as being in the
interest of Singapore. And in the interest of all civilized societies. As
Secretary Rumsfeld has said, it is a relentless war. It has to be carried out 24
hours a day, seven days a week, throughout the year. And wherever the menace
presents itself, whether in the Middle East or with Southeast Asia, I think the
international cooperation is necessary, whether it’s on land or in the air or at
sea. We can only succeed if we work together. So Singapore will support the
coalition efforts in the war on terror with all the capabilities that we have.

Q: Thank you.

Rumsfeld: Thank you.

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 04:34 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: U.S. Won't 'Cut and Run' From Iraq, Bush Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2004 – The United States is not going to "cut and run"
from Iraq, President Bush told newspaper editors here today.

Bush, speaking at a meeting of the American Society of Newspaper Editors, said
enemies view freedom in Iraq as a real threat, and those enemies will try
anything to defeat the coalition. "We're not going to cut and run if I'm in the
Oval Office," Bush said. "We will do our job. I believe that people yearn to be
free. I believe the people of Iraq will self-govern. And I believe that the
world will be better off for it."

The president said that a free and democratic Iraq is an opportunity to change
the world. "It's essential that America show resolve and strength and not have
our will shaken by those who are willing to murder the innocent," he said. He
noted that terrorists had unleashed a number of suicide bombers in Basra, and
another attack took place today in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh.

"It's a different kind of war," Bush said. "It is a war that is different
because it's hard to really see the enemy. … This is an enemy that is able to
inflict serious destruction on people and yet be nearly invisible most of the
time."

Bush told the editors the United States will use the full strength of all
agencies of government against the terrorists. He said he will also continue to
grow the coalition against terror. "I will tell you, the cooperation (with
allies) is good," Bush said.

He said the United States is sharing information and intelligence with
countries in the war on terror, including many who do not agree with the United
States on actions in Iraq.

Bush said the difference in the 21st century is that terrorism is not limited to
overseas attacks against Americans or American interests. The United States
itself is a target. "What do you do about a threat that you see gathering
overseas?" the president asked. "Do you just kind of hope it goes away, or do
you deal with it? And I've obviously made the decision to deal with it."

Bush told the editors that America's word must mean something. He said he meant
what he said about nations harboring terrorists being just as bad as the
terrorists. The Taliban in Afghanistan found out the United States meant that,
he said.

Iraq, the president said, was a gathering threat. "The United Nations saw a
threat," he said. "I went to the United Nations. I said, 'Listen, you've been
calling upon this guy to disarm for 10 years. … He's chosen not to. Now let's
give him one final chance to do so.'"

The U.N. Security Council, the president said, unanimously passed a resolution
telling Saddam Hussein to "disarm or face serious consequences." Bush said when
an organization makes such a statement, "you better mean what you say when you
say it."

Bush noted the U.S. action removed an oppressive regime from power. "Because we
moved, torture chambers are closed, mass graves won't be filled, and democracy
is growing in the heart of the Middle East," he said.

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 05:27 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Singapore Reaffirms Commitment to War on Terror
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2004 — Singapore's deputy prime minister reaffirmed his
county's commitment to the war on terror and vowed to continue working closely
with the United States "to uproot this menace to modern society" after a
meeting today at the Pentagon.

"Singapore supports the war on terror led by the U.S.," Deputy Prime Minister
Tony Tan said after meeting with Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld.

"The war on terror is taking place on many dimensions and many views and in
many countries," Tan said. "The focus on the war now is in Iraq. We have
focused campaigns in Afghanistan and in Iraq, and we will continue to do so
within the limits of our opportunities."

Singapore provides facilities for U.S. ships bound to operations in Iraq and
Afghanistan, shares intelligence and regularly opens its ports to U.S. ships.
"We have also provided assistance in Iraq through the provision of police
trainers, transport aircraft and landing ship tank, within our capabilities and
where we can make a useful difference," he said. A landing ship tank, known as
an LST, is a vessel that can carry up to 29 tanks and 350 troops.

Tan said Singapore's success in crippling the Jemaah Islamiyah network in
Singapore "does not mean it is the end of the story." Rather, he said, the war
on terror will be a long, sustained effort that takes place in many countries
around the globe.

"As Secretary Rumsfeld has said, it is a relentless war," Tan said. "It has to
be carried out 24 hours a day, seven days a week, throughout the year. And
wherever the menace presents itself, whether in the Middle East or with
Southeast Asia, I think the international cooperation is necessary, whether
it's on land or in the air or at sea."

Tan said those who wish to win out over terrorism "can only succeed if we work
together," and that "Singapore will support the coalition efforts in the war on
terror with all the capabilities that we have."

Rumsfeld praised Singapore for its strong support in the terror. He called the
United States' relationship with that country "a very close, not just military-
to-military relationship, but a political and economic relationship, which we
value greatly."

Rumsfeld said the coalition partners such as Singapore are vital to countering
the indiscriminate tactics used by terrorists. "A terrorist can attack any
time, any place, using any technique, and they do it," Rumsfeld said. "They go
about killing innocent men, women and children and not just in Saudi Arabia,
but also in Indonesia and every corner of the globe – in Western Europe and the
United States, and most recently in Spain as well."

Rumsfeld said the only way for responsible, civilized countries to counter this
threat is "to take the battle to the terrorists, to find those terrorist
networks, to share intelligence, to bring all elements of national power to
bear and make it more difficult for them to raise money to move money, to
physically move around within a country, to cross borders between countries and
keep raising the costs to them."

That, Rumsfeld said, is exactly how the coalition is confronting the terrorist
threat. "There hasn't been a day that's gone by where this very broad and deep
coalition of some 90 nations in the world haven't been successful in arresting
and breaking up some terrorists somewhere on the face of the earth," he said.
"And we'll keep that up with a great deal of resolution."

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 05:28 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Wednesday Apr. 21, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 352-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 21, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Wednesday, April 21, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Wednesday, April 21, 2004

CONTRACTS

_UNITED STATES SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND_

_ _ The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) today
awarded General Dynamics Decisions Systems, (GDDS), Scottsdale, Ariz., an
indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract to purchase and repair the Hook
112 Survival Radio The contract allows special operations forces to purchase and
repair survival radios, programmers, and related ancillary equipment. The work
will be principally performed in Scottsdale. After award of the basic contract,
USSOCOM expects to award a new firm-fixed price delivery order valued at
approximately $210,000.00. The maximum dollar value of contracting action is
$22,000,000.00. The contract number is H92222-04-D-0003.

ARMY

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Stratford, Conn., was awarded on April 20,
2004, a $14,932,695 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for the conversion
of four UH-60L “Vanilla” Black Hawk Helicopters to the HH-60L Configuration. Work
will be performed in Stratford, and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2007.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a
sole source contract initiated on Oct. 4, 2000. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile
Command, Huntsville, Ala., is the contracting activity (DAAH23-02-C-0006).

Brigade Quartermasters Ltd.*, Kennesaw, Ga., was awarded on April 20,
2004, a delivery order amount $4,197,756 as part of a $9,634,257 firm-fixed-price
contract for six-color desert camouflage uniform items. Work will be performed in
Kennesaw and is expected to be completed by Jan. 31, 2005. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids
solicited via the World Wide Web on Feb. 10, 2004, and 124 bids were received. The
Coalition Provisional Authority Contracting Activity, Baghdad, Iraq, is the
contracting activity (W914NS-04-D-0106).

Safety and Security International L.L.C.*, Brentwood, Tenn., was
awarded on April 20, 2004, a delivery order amount $2,753,718 as part of a
$9,723,581 firm-fixed-price contract for six-color desert camouflage uniform
items. Work will be performed in Brentwood and is expected to be completed by Jan.
31, 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.
There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Feb. 10,
2004, and 124 bids were received. The Coalition Provisional Authority Contracting
Activity, Baghdad, Iraq, is the contracting activity (W914NS-04-D-0114).

Blacksmith Management Group*, Salt Lake City, Utah, was awarded on
April 20, 2004, a delivery order amount of $80,000 as part of a $100,000,000
firm-fixed-price contract for the Great Lakes and Ohio River Division Mission.
Work will be performed in Louisville and is expected to be completed by April 19,
2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There
were 100 bids solicited on Oct. 18, 2003, and 11 bids were received. The U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0012).

The Ross Group Construction Corp.*, Tulsa, Okla., was awarded on April
20, 2004, a delivery order amount of $80,000 as part of a $100,000,000
firm-fixed-price contract for the Great Lakes and Ohio River Division Mission.
Work will be performed in Louisville and is expected to be completed by April 19,
2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There
were 100 bids solicited on Oct. 18, 2003, and 11 bids were received. The U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0013).

TMS Contracting L.L.C.*, Clarksville, Tenn., was awarded on April 20,
2004, a delivery order amount of $80,000 as part of a $100,000,000 firm-fixed-price
contract for the Great Lakes and Ohio River Division Mission. Work will be
performed in Louisville, Ky., and is expected to be completed by April 19, 2009.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were
100 bids solicited on Oct. 18, 2003, and 11 bids were received. The U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0014).

TJC Engineering*, Louisville, Ky., was awarded on April 20, 2004, a
delivery order amount of $80,000 as part of a $100,000,000 firm-fixed-price
contract for the Great Lakes and Ohio River Division Mission. Work will be
performed in Louisville and is expected to be completed by April 19, 2009.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were
100 bids solicited on Oct. 18, 2003, and 11 bids were received. The U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0015).

Q.B.S. Inc.*, Alliance, Ohio, was awarded on April 20, 2004, a delivery
order amount of $80,000 as part of a $100,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the
Great Lakes and Ohio River Division Mission. Work will be performed in Louisville
and is expected to be completed by April 19, 2009. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 100 bids solicited on Oct. 18,
2003, and 11 bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville,
Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-04-D-0016).

Highcom Security Inc.*, San Francisco, Calif., was awarded on April 20,
2004, a delivery order amount $11,250 as part of a $9,261,492 firm-fixed-price
contract for six-color desert camouflage uniform items. Work will be performed in
San Francisco and is expected to be completed by Jan. 31, 2005. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown
number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Feb. 10, 2004, and 124 bids were
received. The Coalition Provisional Authority Contracting Activity, Baghdad, Iraq,
is the contracting activity (W914NS-04-D-0107).

Uniforms Manufacturing Inc.*, Scottsdale, Ariz., was awarded on April
20, 2004, a delivery order amount $11,010 as part of an $11,461,770
firm-fixed-price contract for six-color desert camouflage uniform items. Work will
be performed in Scottsdale and is expected to be completed by Jan. 31, 2005.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were
an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Feb. 10, 2004, and
124 bids were received. The Coalition Provisional Authority Contracting Activity,
Baghdad, Iraq, is the contracting activity (W914NS-04-D-0113).

NAVY

James McHugh Construction Co., Chicago, Ill., is being awarded a
$13,235,000 (first increment) firm-fixed price contract for design and construction
for the Battle Stations 21 Facility at the Recruit Training Command Campus at Naval
Station, Great Lakes. This facility will be the culminating, capstone event of
Navy Basic Military Training. It is a first of its kind effort to provide tools to
deal with real-life combat scenarios. The Battle Stations project will provide
simulation training to help prepare sailors to meet the immediate needs of the
Fleet and will effectively combine immersive training techniques with “reality
based” Navy training scenarios. This contract will be incrementally funded (the
second increment at $69,037,300) and contains options, which if exercised, will
bring the cumulative value of the contract to $82,272,300. Work will be performed
in Great Lakes, Ill., and is expected to be completed by February 2007. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was
competitively procured as a Two Phase Design Build via the NAVFAC e-solicitation
website with six offers received in Phase I, and two selected to proceed to Phase
II. The Engineering Field Activity Midwest, Naval Facilities Engineering Command,
Great Lakes, Ill., is the contracting activity (N68950-03-C-0014).

Eagan, McAllister Associates Inc., Lexington Park, Md., is being
awarded a $5,709,173 modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee
contract (N00421-02-C-0006) to exercise an option for technical and engineering
services in support of surface communication and information systems programs. The
estimated level of effort for this option is 104,000 man-hours. Work will be
performed in St. Inigoes, Md. (80 percent); and Quantico, Va. (2 percent), and is
expected to be completed in April 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end
of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command Aircraft Division, St.
Inigoes, Md., is the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

General Injectables & Vaccines Inc., Bastian, Va., is being awarded a
$16,155,812 firm fixed price with indefinite quantity type of contract for
influenza virus vaccine for the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, and U.S.
Marine Corps. Work also will be performed in Liverpool, England. Performance
completion date is expected to be November 30, 2004. Contract funds will expire at
the end of this fiscal year. There were 10 proposals solicitation and four
responded. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia,
Philadelphia, Pa. (SP0200-04R-0005).

Aventis Pasteur Inc., Swiftwater, Pa., is being awarded a $8,400,224
firm fixed price with indefinite quantity type of contract for influenza virus
vaccine for the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Marine Corps.
Performance completion date is expected to be November 30, 2004. Contract funds
will expire at the end of this fiscal year. There were 10 proposals solicitation
and four responded. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center
Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SP0200-04-D-0004-8001).

*small business

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 05:28 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Lawlessness Part of Life in Fallujah
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2004 – A certain amount of lawlessness has always been a
part of life in Fallujah, Defense Department officials said recently.

While U.S. Marines stand ready inside the city, anti-coalition forces continue
to attack in defiance of a ceasefire agreement. The city is a hotbed of anti-
coalition activity, and has been since the U.S. troops entered the area in
April last year.

But Fallujah's reputation for violence didn't start when the coalition rolled
into town. It has always had the taste of what Americans would call the Wild
West.

While Iraq is laced with antiquities, Fallujah isn't one of them. Just after
World War II, the population of the town was around 10,000. The city, about 40
miles west of Baghdad, is on the edge of the desert, and now has about 300,000
citizens. It is a dry and arid landscape, made productive only because of
extensive irrigation from the nearby Euphrates River.

It was, however, located on the main routes into Jordan and Syria. And in
crime, as in real estate, location is everything. The city was on the main
route for smugglers, and sheltered a number of very successful crime lords.

The area is poor, and the villages surrounding the city still shelter
subsistence farmers and their families. The smugglers were a source of money –
even wealth – for those in the region. Even government officials sheltered the
smugglers, DoD officials said.

When Saddam Hussein took power in 1979, the city received a boost. Many of the
people in Fallujah supported Saddam, and many of his closest advisors, highest-
ranking military officers and high-ranking members of the Baath Party came from
Fallujah, Ramadi, Tikrit and other areas in the center of the Sunni Triangle.
Arab tribes in and around the city also owed fealty to Saddam and became
bastions of the regime.

Hussein returned the favor by building factories in the city and providing jobs
for his chosen people.

Fallujah took a number of hits in the first Gulf War. News reports indicate
that in one instance, a U.S. bomber tried to take out Fallujah's bridge over
the Euphrates. The bomb missed and allegedly killed 200 Iraqis in the city
market.

Following the Gulf War, the city became an even larger smuggling center, this
time with government encouragement, officials said. Saddam encouraged the
smugglers to skirt the U.N.-imposed sanctions on Iraq.

Since the U.S.-led liberation of Iraq, former regime supporters have allied
themselves with foreign fighters who seem to be entering Iraq via Syria,
officials said. U.S. officials suspect that members of al Qaeda affiliate Ansar
al-Islam have cells in the city. Other terror groups have allied themselves
with former regime elements and Sunni extremists, making for a very volatile
mix.

Officials said these groups intimidate the larger population of Fallujah, and
these citizens seem to be caught in the middle. If the people of Fallujah
cooperate with the former regime members, then coalition forces will come after
them. If they cooperate with the coalition, then they will be killed.

Terrorists have launched attacks against coalition forces, Iraqis supporting
coalition efforts such as police and members of the Civil Defense Corps and
against everyday civilians.

The Sunni Triangle became a haven for foreign fighters and anti-coalition
elements. Attacks mounted against coalition and Iraqi targets. When coalition
forces captured Saddam in December, the number of attacks dipped. But on Feb.
12, former regime elements launched an attack against U.S. Central Command
chief Army Gen. John Abizaid, who was visiting the area.

On March 31, anti-coalition forces attacked an SUV with four American security
specialists. The attackers killed the men, and then a crowd mutilated their
bodies. The Marines of the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force launched Operation
Vigilant Resolve on April 4.

On April 10, the Marines announced a unilateral ceasefire that allows
humanitarian relief to reach the residents of the city. The Marines have
remained in this posture since then, replying only when fired upon by anti-
coalition forces.

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 05:43 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Leader Notes Department's Environmental Record
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

Special to the American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2004 – The Department of Defense is a good steward of
America's environmental heritage, a top DoD official said.

April 22 is Earth Day, and the department has had a stellar record on the
environment, said Ray DuBois, deputy undersecretary of defense for
installations and environment.

"There are awards that have been made to posts, camps and stations all over the
country," Dubois said recently. DoD manages the health of about 300 endangered
species that on the "very bio-diverse 30 million acres which we manage in the
United States."

The Air Force and Army have been recognized for their work, for example, in
saving the red-cockaded woodpecker in the Southeast. The Navy and Marine Corps
have worked to ensure the survival of the fairy shrimp in the West Coast,
DuBois said.

The department dedicates nearly $4 billion a year on environmental programs.
"Clearly this obligation is taken seriously by this department," he said.

All of the services will celebrate Earth Day. For example, the Navy Department
will mark Earth Day under the theme of "Celebrating Successful Partnerships."
This recognizes the Navy's work with many partners around the world. "Earth Day
presents an excellent opportunity to highlight the department's continued
contributions to ensuring a sustainable environmental future," said Navy
Secretary Gordon R. England. "Earth Day 2004 is an occasion for the Navy and
Marine Corps to work with partnering organizations to re-emphasize our
commitment to the environment in which we work and live, both in the U.S. and
overseas."

The service gave a few highlights of its environmental accomplishments in 2003,
including:

A joint venture between Norfolk Naval Shipyard and Atlantic Wood Industries to
remove 38,000 tons of calcium hydroxide, 3,900 tons of wood debris, 1,400 tons
of abrasive blast media and 1,700 tons of contaminated soil from two adjacent
National Priority List sites in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.

Partnerships between the Norfolk Naval Shipyard and the Virginia Institute of
Marine Science and the Elizabeth River Project to construct a 1.33-acre wetland
and plant a 1.6-acre riparian buffer to provide upland a habitat that consists
of native grasses, bushes and trees that provide additional storm and water
filtration control.

The implementation of a Navywide "At Sea" Policy that requires all fleet
exercises to be reviewed for environmental compliance and for potential effect
on marine mammals and other marine life.

The Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, Calif., has one of the largest
alternative fuel vehicle fleets in the nation and is broadly recognized as a
leader in the field.

The Naval Air Weapons Station at China Lake, Calif., is operating a 270-
megawatt geothermal power plant that provides nearly pollution-free power for
180,000 homes. Since its inception, the Navy has reduced greenhouse gas
emissions by 4.5 metric tons at China Lake.

All the gas-powered vehicles in the executive motor pool at Naval Station
Anacostia here were replaced with alternatively fueled vehicles.

The Navy also has been recognized for its leadership in energy conservation and
its environmental stewardship. Recently, President Bush cited the Naval
Facilities Engineering Command with a Presidential Award for Leadership in
Federal Energy Management in the category of "Outstanding Performance." The
award was one of five Presidential Awards presented in 2003.

Each year, the Navy commands sponsor booth displays, tree plantings, volunteer
cleanup projects, environmental fairs, and other Earth Day-related events.

Biographies:
Deputy Undersecretary of Defense
for Installations and Environment Ray DuBois [http://www.acq.osd.mil/ie/ie_bio.htm]
Navy Secretary Gordon R. England [/bios/england_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Norfolk Naval Shipyard [http://www.nnsy1.navy.mil/]
Camp Pendleton, Calif. [http://www.pendleton.usmc.mil/]
Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake,
Calif. [http://www.nawcwpns.navy.mil/]
Naval Facilities Engineering Command [http://www.navfac.navy.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 05:54 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 353-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 21, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Flag Officer Assignments

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Vern Clark announced the following flag officer
assignments:

Navy Rear Adm. John C. Harvey Jr. is being assigned as director, Warfare
Integration and Assessment Division, N7F, office of the Chief of Naval Operations,
Arlington, Va. Harvey is currently assigned as commander, Cruiser Destroyer Group
Eight, Norfolk, Va.

Navy Rear Adm. Robert L. Phillips is being assigned as commander, First Naval
Construction Division, U.S. Atlantic Fleet/commander, Naval Construction Forces
Command, Norfolk, Va. Phillips is currently assigned as deputy director, Ashore
Readiness Division, N46A, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Arlington, Va.

Navy Rear Adm. James A. Robb is being assigned as director, Fleet Readiness
Division, N43, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Arlington, Va. Robb is
currently assigned as director for Plans and Policy, J5, U.S. Central Command,
MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.

Navy Rear Adm. Daniel H. Stone is being assigned as commander, Naval Supply Systems
Command/chief of Supply Corps, Mechanicsburg, Pa. Stone is currently assigned as
director for Logistics and Engineering, J4, U.S. Northern Command, Peterson Air
Force Base, Colo.

Navy Rear Adm. Stephen E. Johnson is being assigned as deputy commander, Naval
Undersea Warfare Center, Washington, D.C. Johnson is currently assigned as
director, Undersea Technology, Naval Sea Systems Command (SEA 073), Washington, D.C.

Navy Rear Adm. Joseph A. Walsh is being assigned as director, Submarine Warfare
Division, N77, office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Arlington, Va. Walsh is
currently assigned as commander, Submarine Group Two, Groton, Conn.

Seoulstriker

04-21-2004, 07:03 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Department of The Navy Celebrates Earth Day 2004
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 354-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 21, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Department of The Navy Celebrates Earth Day 2004

The Department of the Navy will join the nation in celebration of the 34th annual
Earth Day on April 22nd. The Department’s theme for Earth Day 2004 is “Celebrating
Successful Partnerships,” recognizing the extensive collaboration that takes place
among Navy, Marine Corps, industry, government, academic, and nonprofit
organizations to enable the sea services to accomplish the primary mission of
national defense while safeguarding the natural environment.

“Earth Day presents an excellent opportunity to highlight the department’s
continued contributions to ensuring a sustainable environmental future,” said
Secretary of the Navy Gordon England. “Earth Day 2004 is an occasion for the Navy
and Marine Corps to work with partnering organizations to re-emphasize our
commitment to the environment in which we work and live, both in the U.S. and
overseas.”

The Department of the Navy prides itself on its long-standing record of
environmental stewardship. Highlights of 2003 environmental initiatives are:

+ A joint venture between Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) and Atlantic Wood
Industries to remove 38,000 tons of calcium hydroxide, 3,900 tons of wood debris,
1,400 tons of abrasive blast media, and 1,700 tons of contaminated soil from two
adjacent National Priority List sites in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.

+ The partnerships between NNSY and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science and
the Elizabeth River Project to construct a 1.33-acre wetland and plant a 1.6-acre
riparian buffer to provide upland a habitat that consists of native grasses, bushes
and trees that provide additional storm and water filtration control.

+ The implementation of a Navy-wide “At Sea” policy that requires all fleet
exercises to be reviewed for environmental compliance and for potential effect on
marine mammals and other marine life.

+ Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., one of the largest Alternative Fuel
Vehicle (AFV) fleets in the nation, is widely recognized as an AFV leader. Marine
Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego has mandated that AFVs be used for all
transportation activities.

+ The decision to operate a 270-megawatt (MW) Geothermal Power Plant at Naval Air
Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake, Calif. to generate nearly pollution-free power
for 180,000 homes. Since its inception, the Navy has reduced greenhouse gas
emissions by 4.5 metric tons at NAWS.

+ Replacing all the gas-powered vehicles in the Executive Motor Pool at Naval
Station Anacostia, Washington, D.C. with alternatively fueled vehicles.

The Navy has been recognized for its leadership in energy conservation and its
environmental stewardship. Recently, President George W. Bush cited the Naval
Facilities Engineering Command with a Presidential Award for Leadership in Federal
Energy Management in the category of “Outstanding Performance.” The award was one
of five Presidential Awards presented in 2003.

Each year, Department of the Navy commands worldwide celebrate the environmental
stewardship successes of sailors, Marines, ships and installations by hosting and
participating in booth displays, tree plantings, volunteer cleanup projects,
environmental fairs, and other Earth Day-related events. Earth Day is often
celebrated in the U.S. on or around April 22, but many events take place throughout
April and May. To find out if Navy Earth Day activities are planned in your area,
contact the public affairs office of a Navy installation near you.

Additional information about the Navy’s environmental partnerships is
at: www.navy.mil [http://www.navy.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-22-2004, 09:52 AM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 355-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 22, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Leroy Harris-Kelly, 20, of Azusa, Calif, died April 20 north of Tallil, Iraq,
when his truck went off the road and rolled over because of limited visibility and
dangerous driving conditions. Pfc. Harris-Kelly was assigned to the 596th
Maintenance Company, 3rd Corps Support Command, V Corps, Darmstadt, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

Seoulstriker

04-22-2004, 02:06 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Leaders in Fallujah Have 'Days, Not Weeks' to Comply
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 22, 2004 – It's a matter of "days not weeks" for Fallujans to
demonstrate they are serious about honoring the agreement they made earlier
this week, Coalition Provisional Authority spokesmen in Iraq said today.

Speaking during a Baghdad press conference, senior spokesman Dan Senor said
Fallujans must turn over illegal heavy weapons and they must work "to remove
foreign fighters, drug users, former Special Republican Guard, former Fedayeen
Saddam and other serious, dangerous and violent criminals operating out of
Fallujah."

U.S. Marines stand ready to restart offensive operations in Fallujah. The 1st
Marine Expeditionary Force declared a unilateral cease-fire in the city April
9. Members of the Iraqi Governing Council have spoken with officials in
Fallujah in hopes of defusing the situation and getting anti-coalition forces
there under control.

"While we continue to be hopeful based on the intentions of those with whom we
have been negotiating … we do caution that we are in a mode right now of days,
not weeks," Senor said. "Time is running out. We want to reach a peaceful
resolution to the Fallujah situation."

Coalition military spokesman Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt called on those
inside Fallujah to demonstrate leadership and convince the anti-coalition
elements to lay down their arms. He said the coalition does not want more
bloodshed, but is ready to resume offensive operations if needed. He said a
further fight in the city can be avoided "if those leaders show leadership and
go back and persuade the people that are holding their city hostage that this
is the best deal that they're going to get."

Kimmitt said the heavy-arms turn-in has been something of a joke. The weapons
turned over to Marines fit into the bed of a pick-up truck and were mostly
outdated weapons or training rounds. "(We're) looking for a serious engagement,
serious discussions from people who can deliver and not bring in rubbish or
trash or junk," Kimmitt said. "(We're looking for) the heavy weapons that have
been responsible for the recent engagements in Fallujah."

Operations continue throughout Iraq. There were 10 attacks in the north over
the past 24 hours, Kimmitt said. Five of those attacks were aimed at Task Force
Olympia personnel or members of the Iraqi security forces.

In the 1st Infantry Division's north-central area, Big Red One soldiers
conducted a series of raids against safe houses near Balad, used by militia
loyal to radical cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, Kimmitt said. The raids resulted in
the detention of six targeted individuals and 15 other men.

The 1st Cavalry Division's Task Force Baghdad captured 18 enemy personnel and
confiscated a large amount of ammunition over the past 24 hours.

In the western zone, three attacks took place against coalition and Iraqi
security forces. Kimmitt said coalition forces continue to see anti-coalition
forces fighting from fortified positions, misusing mosques as weapons storage
sites and using them as command and control nodes.

Outside Fallujah, the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force continues aggressive
patrols and offensive operations outside Fallujah. The Marines had to halt the
movement of humanitarian assistance into Fallujah due to attacks on coalition
forces. They have since resumed, military officials in Baghdad said.

In Basra, coalition forces are helping local authorities recover after the
April 21 terror attacks, Kimmitt said. A total of 68 Iraqis were killed in a
series of car bomb attacks. Many of those the terrorists killed were
schoolchildren.

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
1st Infantry Division [http://www.1id.army.mil/]
1st Cavalry Division [http://www.hood.army.mil/1stcavdiv/]

Seoulstriker

04-22-2004, 02:06 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 356-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 22, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

General Officer Assignments

The chief of staff, Army announces the assignment of the following officers:

Maj. Gen. Barbara G. Fast, assistant commandant, U.S. Army Intelligence Center,
with duty as the C-2, Combined Joint Task Force-7, Iraq, to commanding general,
U.S. Army Intelligence Center and Fort Huachuca, Fort Huachuca, Ariz.

Maj. Gen. Stephen M. Speakes, deputy commanding general for operations, Third U. S.
Army, Camp Doha, Kuwait, to director, force development, Office of the Deputy Chief
of Staff, G-8, U.S. Army, Washington, D.C.

Maj. Gen. Gary D. Speer, deputy chief of staff, G-3, U.S. Army Europe and Seventh
Army, Germany, to deputy commanding general, Third U.S. Army, Camp Doha, Kuwait.

Brig. Gen. James A. Coggin, vice director of the Army staff, U.S. Army, Washington,
D.C., to assistant chief of staff, C/J-3, United Nations Command/Combined Forces
Command/U.S. Forces Korea/deputy commanding general, Eighth U.S. Army, Korea.

Brig. Gen. Michael L. Combest, chief, requirements and programs branch, Office of
the Assistant Chief of Staff for Policy, Supreme Headquarters, Allied Powers
Europe/deputy commanding general, U.S. Army North Atlantic Treaty Organization,
Belgium, to commanding general, U.S. Army Developmental Test Command, Aberdeen
Proving Ground, Md.

Brig. Gen. John DeFreitas III, deputy assistant chief of staff, C-2/J-2, United
Nations Command/Combined Forces Command/U.S. Forces Korea, to deputy chief of staff
for intelligence, multi-national forces - Iraq.

Brig. Gen. Gina S. Farrisee, the adjutant general/commanding general, physical
disability agency/executive director, Military Postal Service Agency, Alexandria,
Va., to commanding general, U.S. Army Soldier Support Institute, Fort Jackson, S.C.

Brig. Gen. Joseph F. Fil, Jr., commanding general, National Training Center and
Fort Irwin, Fort Irwin, Calf. to deputy chief of staff for operations,
multi-national forces - Iraq.

Brig. Gen. Mark T. Kimmitt, commanding general, XVIII Airborne Corps Artillery,
with duty as deputy director for operations, C-3/chief, military spokesman,
Combined Joint Task Force-7, Iraq, to deputy director, plans and policy, U.S.
Central Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.

Brig. Gen. Robert P. Lennox, deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Space
Command/deputy commanding general for operations, U.S. Army Space and Missile
Defense Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., to deputy commanding general/chief
of staff, U.S. Army Accessions Command, Fort Monroe, Va.

Brig. Gen. James H. Schwitters, director, joint security, U.S. Central Command,
MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., to commanding general, Coalition Military Assistance
Training Team, Baghdad, Iraq.

Brig. Gen. Edgar E. Stanton III, commanding general, U.S. Army Soldier Support
Institute, Fort Jackson, S.C., to director for Army budget, Office of the Assistant
Secretary of the Army (Financial Management and Comptroller), Washington, D.C.

Brig. Gen. John A. Yingling, commanding general, Joint Task Force 6, U.S. Northern
Command, Fort Bliss, Tex., to deputy commanding general, First United States Army,
Fort Gillem, Ga.

Col. Francis G. Mahon, director of materiel, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff,
G-8, U.S. Army, Washington, D.C., to deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Air
Defense Artillery Center and Fort Bliss, Fort Bliss, Tex.

The assignment of Col. Mahon should not be construed as the Senate's consent of his
promotion nomination, and there will be no action to frock or promote him until
Senate confirmation.

Seoulstriker

04-22-2004, 04:37 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Rumsfeld Asks Editors to Tell Whole Story of War
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 22, 2004 – Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld appealed to
American newspaper editors here today to tell the whole story about the global
war on terrorism.

Rumsfeld spoke at a conference of U.S. newspaper editors, and told the group
their publications are uniquely posed to help debate in America because they
have the room for detail and nuance.

"To know the whole story about what's going on in Iraq today, America and other
nations need to hear not just the truth that there are attacks and setbacks, …
but also why these attacks are happening and why the terrorists and the regime
remnants are lashing out," Rumsfeld said. "And this is where the print media
can play a special role. You have the space to give context -- to inform the
public about things that don't make the sound bite on evening news. Terrorists
and bomb-throwers get headlines, to be sure. The good people of Iraq and
Afghanistan do not."

Nor do the courageous men and women of the coalition who have deployed to the
countries, Rumsfeld added. Military and civilian personnel have deployed to
help Iraqis and Afghans get on a path to self-government and to self-reliance,
he said. "They do not make headlines, but they are making a difference," the
secretary told the editors.

"The vast majority of the Iraqi people are not rioting, they're not looting,
they're not shooting, he continued. "For every bomb that goes off in Baghdad,
there are many bombs that are defused as a result of coalition soldiers acting
on information they receive from Iraqi people.

"For every building that's damaged by mortar fire, there are many schools and
hospitals and clinics that are being built and repaired," he continued. "And
for every Iraqi soldier who was reluctant to fight in the past few weeks, there
are tens of thousands of Iraqi security officials who are fighting every day
for the Iraqi people, and there have been over 300 Iraqi security forces that
have been killed in recent months."

The secretary had harsh words for the Arab television news services Al-Jazeera
and Al-Arabiyah. He said the two media outlets "are routinely telling the world
lies about coalition actions."

He said that as the Arab population becomes used to freedom, it will be able to
discern truth from lies. "Afghans and Iraqis are now free," he said. "After
decades of being fed lies by dictatorial regimes and the controlled press, they
are starting to thirst for the truth.

"Just as Americans have, so too free Afghans and Iraqis will eventually develop
their own sense of balance, their own inner gyroscopes, and an ability to
absorb what they hear," he said.

Biography:
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld [/bios/rumsfeld_bio.html]

Seoulstriker

04-22-2004, 04:37 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 358-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 22, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Business Transformation Initiative Director Announced

The Department of Defense announced today that Dr. Paul A. Tibbits was appointed
director of the Business Modernization and Systems Integration Program Office,
within the Business Management Modernization Program (BMMP).

BMMP is the Department of Defense business transformation initiative. In his
role as director, Tibbits will oversee changes to the department's business
processes to achieve efficiencies and eliminate redundant and non-compatible
systems. He will coordinate an integrated department-wide approach to streamline,
reengineer, and standardize Department of Defenses business practices. Overall,
this program will enable the department to transition from the current collection
of predominantly incompatible and inadequate business systems to an integrated
network of systems, based on the uniform implementation of standard requirements
across the department.

Prior to this assignment, Tibbits was the principal and founding member of a
consulting firm dedicated to increasing client services and product recognition
through the integration of strategic and business planning, partnership and
alliance development, and strategic marketing. In this capacity, he served as the
lead consultant to the Presidential Task Force on Health Care Reform for Veterans.
Previously, Tibbits served 26 years with the U.S. Navy, capping his career as
commanding officer, U.S. Navy Medical Information Management Center and chief
information officer for U.S. Navy medicine.

Tibbits holds a medical degree from Tulane's School of Medicine and a bachelor's
degree in biology from Loyola University. He is board certified in internal
medicine and cardiology, and is a member of Defense Acquisition Professionals and
the Navy Acquisition Corps.

More information on BMMP can be found at http://www.dod.mil/comptroller/bmmp/ .

Seoulstriker

04-22-2004, 05:24 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Rear Detachments Serve Vital Wartime Role
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 22, 2004 -- Army Lt. Col. Ed Dorman, deputy commander for the
507th Corps Support Group, admits he "broke the heart" of one of his best young
officers when he told him he would be staying behind at Fort Bragg, N.C., when
the unit deployed to Southwest Asia.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404223a.jpg]
available.</font></table>

"I didn't want to stay back. I wanted to be on the forefront of the effort,"
acknowledged Capt. Michael Kukiela. Dorman said Kukiela had performed
spectacularly during a previous deployment to Afghanistan.

"Everybody wants to deploy," said Col. Greg Johansen, operations officer for
the 1st Corps Support Command. "But it's just as important to have the strongest
individual back in the rear."

Kukiela said he never imagined that his experience as commander for the 1st
Corps Support Command's 186th Rear Detachment would be among the most rewarding
of his career. "It's one of the most challenging jobs I've ever had in terms of
the challenge and workload," he said.

With so much attention focused on units deploying into harm's way, many people
don't realize that these units leave behind a skeletal staff at their home
installation.

These troops carry out a wide range of missions. They pick up the day-to-day
workload typically performed by the deployed unit and provide home-station
support for the unit. At the same time, they carry out what Johansen calls one
of the most important rear detachment duties, serving as a vital communications
link between the deployed unit and family members.

The 57 members of the 186th Rear Detachment work at a frenetic pace to keep up
with their workload. Pvt. William Ritchey and Pfc. Jose Mercado spend long
hours at the motor pool, providing scheduled maintenance and cleanup on
vehicles. Spc. Christine Sims serves as training noncommissioned officer for
the detachment, ensuring that its soldiers keep their skills sharp while their
colleagues are deployed.

Sgt. 1st Class Otis Anthony, first sergeant for the detachment, works with Sims
to get unit members who did not deploy due to medical, legal or other reasons
ready to deploy as their situations change. They ensure that soldiers report to
scheduled medical or legal appointments and keep up their physical training
regimens.

At the same time, the unit picked up a variety of duties when the 82nd Airborne
Division deployed, from casualty assistance and burial detail to color guard
responsibilities. Until Fort Bragg hired contract security guards in January to
man its gates, rear detachment soldiers also pulled gate guard duty.

"When the 82nd was gone, the COSCOM filled in," said Johansen. "It wasn't
necessarily in things our soldiers are trained to do, but they did them and did
them well. We're multi-functional. Our soldiers basically do it all."

Members of the rear detachment said the job is surprisingly fulfilling, giving
them an opportunity to perform a diversity of tasks, many more typically
assigned to higher-ranking soldiers. "I like it because you get to do a variety
of missions," said Sims, who as a specialist is doing a job more typically
assigned to a noncommissioned officer.

"If they heed the call and stay focused and motivated, they can really shine,"
Kukiela said of his junior soldiers.

And although they're not on the front lines, members of the rear detachment say
they're serving an important role in the war on terror. "We're not doing the
big, flashy jobs that you see on the news," acknowledged Ritchey. "But we're
playing a role in supporting those troops."

Dorman said this level of responsibility demands the strongest leadership
possible in its officers as well as its NCOs. "You have to leave a strong staff
behind that you can entrust to get the job done," he said.

"You as the forward-deployed leader need to feel comfortable with who is left
behind," agreed Johansen. "That's why you need to seek out the strong leaders
for the rear detachment."

Related Sites:
Fort Bragg, N.C. [http://www.bragg.army.mil/]
1st Corps Support Command [http://www.bragg.army.mil/coscom/]
507th Corps Support
Group [http://www.bragg.army.mil/coscom/507CSG/507CSG.htm]
82nd Airborne Division [http://www.bragg.army.mil/www-82DV/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

200404223b.jpg Capt. Michael Kukiela, rear detachment commander for the 186th
Quartermaster Company, 507th Corps Support Group, 1st Corps Support Command, is
responsible for the supervision of units that remained on Fort Bragg. N.C.,
while some of their assets deployed to Kuwait and Iraq from February 2003 to
April 2004. Photo by Capt. Sonise Lumbaca, USA

200404223b_hr.jpg High resolution photo.

200404223c.jpg Sgt. Lauretta L. ****erson, operations noncommissioned officer
for the 186th Quartermaster Company, 507th Corps Support Group, 1st Corp
Support Command, works on a sign for a Family Readiness Group car wash to held
at Fort Bragg, N.C. Rear detachments work closely with Family Readiness Groups
while units are deployed. Photo by Capt. Sonise Lumbaca, USA

200404223c_hr.jpg High resolution photo.

Seoulstriker

04-22-2004, 05:59 PM

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 357-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 22, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Thursday, April 22, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Thursday, April 22, 2004

-CONTRACTS-

AIR FORCE

Lockheed Martin Corp., Marietta, Ga., is being awarded a $138,700,000 firm fixed
price contract modification. This contract is for F/A 22 Long Lead Activities,
Diminishing Manufacturing Sources, Performance-Based Agile Logistics Support,
Producibility Improvement Program efforts through 30 April 2004. The locations of
performance are: Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Marietta,
Ga. (33%); Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, Fort Worth, Texas
(35%); and The Boeing Co., Information Space and Defense Systems, Aircraft and
Missile Systems, Seattle, Wash. (32%). At this time, $32,800,000 of the funds have
been obligated. This work will be complete by April 2004. Negotiations were
completed March 2004. The Headquarters Aeronautical Systems Center,
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity
(F33657-02-C-0010, P00013).

Lockheed Martin Corp., Fort Worth, Texas, is being awarded a $21,300,000 firm fixed
price contract modification to provide for support for F/A 22 Program
Support/Annual Sustaining Period G from 1 April 04 through 30 April 04. The
locations of performance are: Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Co., Marietta, Ga. (33%); Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, Fort
Worth, Texas (35%); and The Boeing Co., Information Space and Defense Systems,
Aircraft and Missile Systems, Seattle, Wash. (32%). At this time, $15,975,000 of
the funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by April 2004.
Negotiations were completed March 2004. The Headquarters Aeronautical Systems
Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity
(F33657-97-C-0031, P00052).

ARMY

Watterson/Davis (Joint Venture), Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on April 21, 2004,
a delivery order amount of $9,108,000 as part of an $82,726,870 firm-fixed-price
contract for an Ammo Supply Point Upgrade. Work will be performed at Fort
Wainwright, Alaska, and is expected to be completed by Nov. 30, 2005. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were four bids
solicited on Feb. 27, 2004, and four bids were received. The U.S. Army Engineer
District, Elmendorf, Alaska, is the contracting activity (DACA85-02-D-0011).

The Nascent Group (Joint Venture)*, Sandy, Utah, was awarded on April 21, 2004, a
delivery order amount of $6,466,717 as part of a $12,382,421 firm-fixed-price
contract for design and construction of the Blaine Border Patrol Sector
Headquarters and the Lynden Border Patrol Station. Work will be performed in
Blaine, Wash. (59 percent) and Lynden, Wash. (41 percent), and is expected to be
completed by April 30, 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World
Wide Web on Nov. 13, 2003, and three bids were received. The U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, Seattle, Wash., is the contracting activity (DACA67-03-D-2011).

Breton Industries Inc.*, Amsterdam, N.Y., was awarded on April 21, 2004, a delivery
order amount of $130,130 as part of a $5,382,000 firm-fixed-price contract for
Vehicular Doors for the Tactical Repair Trailers. Work will be performed in
Amsterdam, N.Y., and is expected to be completed by April 30, 2009. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were two bids
solicited on Nov. 26, 2003, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army
Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity
(W56HZV-04-D-0077).

Electric Power Equipment Co.*, Commerce City, Colo., was awarded on April 21, 2004,
a delivery order amount of $121,720 as part of a $20,806,950 firm-fixed-price
contract for an Automotive Test Stand. Work will be performed in Commerce City,
Colo., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 31, 2009. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids
solicited via the World Wide Web on Nov. 25, 2003, and three bids were received.
The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Rock Island, Ill., is the
contracting activity (W52H09-04-D-0083).

Science Applications International Corp., Huntsville, Ala., was awarded on April
20, 2004, a delivery order amount of $0 as part of a $10,369,634
cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for a Missile and Space Intelligence Center Signature
Measurement and Prediction Analysis Support. Work will be performed in Huntsville,
Ala., and is expected to be completed by April 22, 2009. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids
solicited via the World Wide Web on Nov. 25, 2003, and one bid was received. The
Virginia Contracting Activity, Huntsville, Ala., is the contracting activity
(HHM402-04-D-0008).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

Propper International Inc., Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, is being awarded a
$25,531,450 firm fixed price with indefinite quantity type of contract for trousers
for the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Air Force. Performance completion date is
expected to be August 22, 2005. Contract funds will expire at the end of this
fiscal year. This was a web proposal solicitation that received four responces.
The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia,
Pa. (SPM100-04-D-0438).

NAVY

_ _ Lockheed Martin Space Systems Co. (LMSS), Sunnyvale, Calif., is being
awarded a $20,725,000 cost-plus-incentive-fee contract, which represents an
unpriced new procurement, to provide Long Lead Material (LLM) required for the FY05
follow-on production of the TRIDENT II (D5) Missile System. This unpriced
contractual action will be definitized on or about Oct. 1, 2004. The definitized
FY05 TRIDENT II (D5) Production and Deployed Systems Support contract which will be
a cost reimbursable, multiple incentive contract with incentives on cost,
reliability, quality, readiness, and flight termination. Work will be performed in
Sunnyvale, Calif., and is expected to be completed by September 2008. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not
competitively procured. The Navy's Strategic Systems Programs, Washington, D.C.,
is the contracting activity (N00030-03-C-0030).

ASRC Constructors Inc.*, Anchorage, Alaska, is being awarded a maximum amount of
$30,000,000, with a guaranteed minimum of $10,000 (base period and four option
years), firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery job order contract for construction,
alteration, repair and short-term facilities maintenance services at Naval
installations in the Delaware Valley area. Work will be performed at Department of
Navy installations located in New Jersey (35 percent), Pennsylvania (35 percent),
New York (25 percent), and Delaware (5 percent). Term of the contract is not to
exceed five years with an expected completion date of April 2005 (April 2009 with
options). Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal. This
contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation website with five
offers received. The Engineering Field Activity Northeast, Naval Facilities
Engineering Command, Lester, Pa., is the contracting activity (N62472-03-D-0078).

Spiral Aviation Training Co.*, Centennial, Colo., is being awarded an
estimated value $8,742,838 indefinite-delivery requirements contract with an for
academic and simulator training for the Navy TC-12B aircraft, including
Intermediate E-2/C-2 Multi-Service Pilot Training System (MPTS), Advanced
Multi-engine MPTS, and Advanced Tiltrotor TC-12B flight training, as well as
Multi-engine Flight Instructor and Transition training, and TC-12B systems
classroom academic instruction. Work will be performed in Corpus Christi, Texas,
and is expected to be completed in September 2007. Contract funds will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured
via an electronic request for proposal as a 100-percent Small Business Set-Aside;
three offers were received. The Naval Air Systems Command Training Systems
Division, Orlando, Fla., is the contracting activity (N61339-04-D-0037).

The Whiting-Turner Contracting Co., Bethesda, Md., is being awarded $7,025,000 for
firm-fixed price Task Order 0032 under an indefinite-quantity multiple award
construction contract for construction of the chemical/biological defense facility
at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division. The construction of this
defense systems research, development, test and evaluation laboratory is an
addition to Building 1480 and will be used for conducting chemical biological
defense for homeland security. Work will be performed in Dahlgren, Va., and is
expected to be completed by March 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end
of the current fiscal year. The basic contract was competitively procured with 60
proposals solicited, 24 offers received, and award made to multiple contractors on
August 19, 1999. The basic total contract amount for all contractors is not to
exceed $500,000,000 (base period and four option years). The multiple contractors
(five) may be solicited to compete for task orders under the terms and conditions
of the existing contract. Three offers were received for this task order. The
Engineering Field Activity Chesapeake, Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Wash.,
D.C., is the contracting activity (N62477-99-D-0019).

*Small Business

Seoulstriker

04-22-2004, 06:58 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 360-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 22, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Christopher D. Gelineau, 23 of Portland, Maine, died April 20 in Mosul, Iraq,
when his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. Gelineau was assigned to the
Army National Guard's 133rd Engineer Battalion, Gardiner, Maine.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 01:13 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Announces Soldier's Captured Status
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 362-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 23, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Announces Soldier's Captured Status

The Department of Defense announced today a change in the status of a
soldier serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom from duty status - whereabouts unknown
to captured.

Pfc. Keith M. Maupin, 20, of Batavia, Ohio, was declared captured on
April 16.

On April 9, Maupin and Sgt. Elmer C. Krause, 40, of Greensboro, N.C.,
were categorized as duty status - whereabouts unknown when individuals using
rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire attacked their convoy. Both soldiers
were assigned to the Army Reserve’s 724th Transportation Company, from Bartonville,
Ill.

Krause’s status remains unchanged because his whereabouts remain
unknown. Efforts continue to obtain the successful and safe return of both
individuals.

Questions regarding theater operations can be directed to CENTCOM at
(813) 827-5895. Change-in-status questions can be directed to Shari Lawrence,
deputy public affairs officer for the U.S. Army Human Resources Command in
Alexandria, Va., at (703) 325-8856.

For the public affairs officer assisting Maupin’s family contact Maj.
Willie Harris, 88th Regional Readiness Command, (612) 290-0517.

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 01:13 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Fort Hood Hosts Texas-Size Homecoming Celebration
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Pam Cummings
Special to American Forces Press Service

FORT HOOD, Texas, April 23, 2004 – The flag of the Army's 4th Infantry Division
was uncased here April 22 in ceremonies marking the official return of Task
Force Ironhorse to the nation's largest military base.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-
resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404231a.jpg] available.</font></table>

Division commander Maj. Gen. Ray Odierno and Les Brownlee, acting secretary of
the Army, oversaw the event held before an estimated crowd of 60,000 soldiers,
family members and national, state and community leaders.

Some 700 soldiers took part in the uncasing, representing the various units
that made up the task force in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The division colors had
been cased one month ago at Operation Forward Danger in Iraq as the division
prepared to redeploy. Soldiers from Fort Hood's 1st Cavalry Division took their
place.

"Thirteen months ago, in March 2003, Task Force Ironhorse was deployed to
destroy a corrupt and dangerous regime," Brownlee said. Iraqis found the "veil
of oppression lifted" because of the success of the soldiers' mission, he
continued. "They overcame all difficulties and succeeded in typical Ironhorse
fashion. They established their headquarters in Tikrit, Saddam Hussein's
hometown."

Odierno praised the soldiers, saying their "capture of Saddam symbolized an end
to the psychological, political and military terror" the dictator represented
to the people of Iraq. "Task Force Ironhorse soldiers and other members of the
team never let up," he said.

"Never before has a theater of operations been more complex," the general told
the crowd. "You (soldiers) are as bright and innovative as you are lethal. No
doubt our enemy would attempt to defeat us here. But we will destroy them in
their own nest. The 4th Infantry Division and the nation will never forget your
sacrifice."

Odierno thanked family members representing division soldiers who died in
service. "It is a debt we can never repay," he said, turning right to address
the seated families. "Seventy-nine soldiers of Ironhorse made the ultimate
sacrifice. We in the nation are in awe of the families of these soldiers. Your
loss is not in vain."

The general told the group, "The fight continues in Iraq and around the world
today," and that "small bands of heartless, murderous criminals" will be
punished.

Odierno also thanked families attending the uncasing for their support of the
troops during the deployment. "This is a celebration of the return of heroes,"
he said. "For an Army spouse, there is uncertainty, worrying whether your
soldier is in harm's way. One who provides strength today needs to cry
tomorrow."

Following the pass in review, four sets of balloons were released into the
cloudy sky. Red, white and blue balloons represented the soldiers, yellow
balloons served as a reminder of soldiers still at their posts, purple balloons
honored the wounded, and black balloons marked memories for the slain soldiers.

(Pam Cummings is assigned to Fort Hood public affairs.)

Biographies:
Acting Secretary
of the Army Les Brownlee [http://www.army.mil/leaders/leaders/usa/index.html]
Maj. Gen. Raymond T.
Odierno [http://www.hood.army.mil/4id/news/content/cg.asp]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
4th Infantry Division [http://www.hood.army.mil/4id/]
1st Cavalry Division [http://www.hood.army.mil/1stcavdiv/]
Fort Hood, Texas [http://www.hood.army.mil/fthood/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
President Celebrates Easter
With Families at Fort Hood [/news/Apr2004/n04112004_200404112.html]

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 01:14 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: De-Baathification Policy 'Remains Intact,' Coalition Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 23, 2004 – The policy prohibiting hardcore Baathists from
gaining government, military and teaching positions in the new Iraq is a good
one and hasn't changed, the Coalition Provisional Authority's chief spokesman
said in Baghdad today.

However, Dan Senor, noted to reporters, the de-Baathification policy issued
last May and implemented by Iraqi officials in January is being tweaked to
ensure it is being applied fairly.

"The de-Baathification policy remains intact," Senor said. "It was the right
policy when it was issued … and it's the right policy today."

Senor noted that the policy prohibits senior Baath Party officials who had
close ties to the now-defunct Saddam Hussein regime from obtaining positions
within the new Iraqi government. An extensive vetting process, he pointed out,
is used to separate Iraqis who'd merely been party members from hardcore
Baathists with "blood on their hands."

The policy doesn't disqualify all former Baath Party members from applying for
jobs, Senor emphasized, noting that only senior-level functionaries are barred.

However, he said it was lately discovered that some Iraqis who'd once been
Baathists –- especially those in the education field –- have been waiting too
long to resolve their appeals for jobs or retirement pensions. As a result, he
said, changes are being implemented to ensure the policy is being fairly and
effectively carried out.

"The policy is quite clear," Senor pointed out. "There is an opportunity for
appeal … for some Baathists to at least reintegrate into society and avoid a
path of poverty, and do so with a sense of dignity."

Regarding current military operations in Iraq, coalition military spokesman
Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt reported that a Bulgarian patrol was involved
today in a firefight with enemy militia in Karbala. One coalition troop was
wounded in the fight, Kimmitt said, and later died.

U.S. and coalition forces are prepared to resume offensive operations against
entrenched enemy forces in Fallujah, the general continued, noting that such
action could occur within days if tenets of an April 9 cease-fire agreement
aren't met.

Kimmitt pointed out the cease-fire agreement requires enemy forces and
noncombatant citizens in Fallujah to turn in all outlawed weaponry, but little
–- other than old, worn-out weapons – has been received thus far.

"We have no doubt in our minds that the people inside Fallujah understand
what's at stake here," Kimmitt said. "They understand what they have to
deliver."

Related Web Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Cease-Fire Agreement Reached
in Fallujah; 13 U.S. Troops Killed In Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04192004_200404192.html]

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 01:47 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: 4th Infantry Division Commander Recounts War Moments
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Tam Cummings
Special to American Forces Press Service

FORT HOOD, Texas, April 23, 2004 -- A war against terrorists, the capture of a
fallen dictator, the introduction of e-mail to a battle zone and the first war
of the century have earned the soldiers of Operation Iraqi Freedom a unique
place in history, the commander of the Army's 4th Infantry Division said here
April 22.

"This is a new type of war," said Maj. Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, whose Task
Force Ironhorse command in Iraq included soldiers from other units as well.
"This is a war of ideologies. This is about society, about our way of life, and
people trying to attack our way of life."

It's not a case of violence on every street corner, Odierno said, but "that
doesn't mean it's not dangerous. It's a very complicated situation." Though he
is 6 feet 5 inches tall, the general spoke softly as he explained the 4th
Infantry Division's role in the war in Iraq.

"Everyone knows they can't stand up to our Army, our Navy, Air Force or
Marines," the 49-year-old West Point graduate said. "The Saddam (Hussein)
regime was dangerous to all people. What he would do to maintain power was
everything to him."

The level of violence fluctuates in Iraq, the general said. "We are at a peak
point right now," he explained. Insurgents are seeking a role in the Iraqi
government by promoting violence, he said.

Odierno said there might be 10 Iraqi citizens standing on a corner, and nine of
them are good people. "They don't wear uniforms. How do you determine who the
10th person is?" he said. Defeating the insurgents is hard work, he added.

The general recalled the division's capture of Saddam Hussein. "There we were,
the United States Army, in one of the palace compounds with 114 buildings, 70-
something of which were ornate," Odierno said. "And there he was, less than 10
kilometers away down the Tigris River, living in a hole. He was disheveled
(and) disoriented, this supposedly powerful leader. There he was in the bottom
of a hole."

The general said he learned on the morning of Dec. 13 that there might be
action, and the capture took place that afternoon. "It was a clear day, a nice
day," he recalled. When the deposed dictator was captured, Odierno got the call
in the operations center. "'Sir we've got HTV (hard target value) No.1,'" he
said he was told.

The general said he told his staff the news, but within moments, had to tell
the staff something else. "I had to quiet them down, because we had a bunch of
embedded people, including CNN and Fox right next door," he said. And Saddam
still needed to be evacuated.

"I called (Lt.) Gen. (Ricardo S.) Sanchez and I had to tell him a couple of
times," Odierno said with a laugh. "When I told him, at first he thought he'd
heard me wrong."

Odierno's own reaction was calmer then that of his soldiers, because he was
well into planning the next step. "It wasn't anti-climactic; I was just getting
ready to do a major operation," he said. Division soldiers already had
performed 15 to 20 operations to kill or capture Saddam, the general said.
"Sometimes we were 12 or 24 hours, sometimes just a few days behind him," he
said.

The capture caused a two-day delay in sending 7,000 troops into another region.
"I was focused on getting that done. I didn't realize the impact (the capture
had worldwide). I was stunned," Odierno said. "It was clear he was a cloud over
Iraq. Knowing he was out there and then seeing him captured, it was a huge
relief. Four months later, seeing him very desperate, people began acting
independently of him."

The general also said the use of e-mail helped him keep up with home events
during the war. "It was a good way to communicate," he said. "The problem with
phones is you call and no one is there and you leave a message, but (it's) not
what you wanted."

Using e-mail helped the general and his wife, Linda, pass information to the
soldiers' families as well. He said information helps to stop rumors. "She's
very proud of the fact that we didn't have significant rumors started," the
general said of his wife. "We had regular dialogues."

Odierno said soldiers in Operation Iraqi Freedom performed above and beyond
their duties. "It is my honor to command soldiers," he said. "No job compares
to what these soldiers did," he said.

"The soldiers were focused and understood our mission," the general continued.
"Every single day, they went out and did it. They were tough, dedicated, smart,
and they adapted to the environment.

"That included being lethal when you have to be, and turning around next and
building schools or delivering supplies," he said. "I'm very proud of how they
handled it."

(Tam Cummings is assigned to Fort Hood public affairs.)

Biography:
Maj. Gen. Raymond T.
Odierno [http://www.hood.army.mil/4id/news/content/cg.asp]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
4th Infantry Division [http://www.hood.army.mil/4id/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
President Celebrates Easter
With Families at Fort Hood [/news/Apr2004/n04112004_200404112.html]
Saddam Hussein 'Caught Like a
Rat,' U.S. Commander Says [/news/Dec2003/n12142003_200312144.html]

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 02:09 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Combat Controllers Play Key Role in Terror War
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 23, 2004 -- The largest-ever class of future Air Force combat
controllers is training at Pope Air Force Base, N.C., to provide critical
skills required in the war on terror.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-
resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404234c.jpg] available.</font></table>

The current class of 32 students will help bolster the Air Force's cadre of 360
combat controllers -- special operations forces who deploy quickly into
restricted, often hostile territory, set up landing strips and guide in
helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.

Master Sgt. Tim Tennant, director of operations for the Combat Control School,
said the new crop of combat controllers will provide a wide range of other
support during combat operations, from controlling air traffic to setting up
drop zones to calling in air strikes.

"We're the air-to-ground link," said Tech. Sgt. Robert Boulanger,
noncommissioned officer in charge of the course. "We talk Air Force language to
(Navy) SEALS and to the Army on the ground. It allows us to get more airpower
into a theater of operations in a smaller amount of time."

Like most of his fellow combat controllers, Boulanger has deployed frequently
in support of the war on terror — three times to Afghanistan and once to Iraq.
True to the combat controllers' motto, "First there," he said he was the 13th
person to jump from the first U.S. aircraft into Afghanistan in October 2001,
just one month after terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon.
"I was still angry," he said.

Anger, top physical fitness and finely honed skills in air traffic control,
close-air support and command and control made Boulanger a formidable force on
the battlefield. During his first four-month mission to Afghanistan, he
established an airhead to support combat operations and identified where the
enemy was to direct U.S. military ordnance onto key Taliban and al Qaeda
targets. "It was a combination of precision-guided munitions and a guy on the
ground telling them where they need to go," Boulanger said.

During his deployment to Iraq for the first three months of Operation Iraqi
Freedom, Boulanger was attached to a Navy SEAL team to provide a liaison
between the air and ground forces. He also was one of three combat controllers
on the special operations team that rescued prisoner of war Pfc. Jessica Lynch.
"It was very rewarding to see that frail little woman," he said.

Well-versed on the real-life demands on combat controllers, Boulanger said he
strives to instill in his students the physical and mental skills needed to do
the job.

Before starting the 13-week Combat Control School, students complete the 15-
week Air Force Air Traffic Control School at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., the
three-week Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Ga., and the three-week Air
Force Basic Survival School at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash.

At Pope Air Force Base, the students' training focuses on field training,
demolitions, battlefield communications, land navigation and small-unit
tactics. Their training culminates with a field exercise that requires them to
set up drop zones and landing zones, establish a runway and direct in an
aircraft, all within strict timeframes.

Physical fitness gets stressed throughout the training and remains paramount
after students don their distinctive scarlet berets after graduation. "Having a
high level of physical fitness allows you to think clear under stress,"
Boulanger said.

He said the school's intensive fitness standards ensure that combat controllers
can carry communications equipment and other gear in rucksacks that often
exceed 100 pounds, frequently moving over long distances with other special
operations forces. "You have to be in great shape to keep up and not be a
liability," Boulanger said.

Attention to detail is also vital for combat controllers, as well as ability to
work as a team. "In our role as combat controllers, sometimes you're leading
and sometimes you're following," Boulanger said. "You have to be able to do
both."

But even more important, Tennant said, is mental toughness. "You have to be
stubborn and have a non-quit attitude," he said. "It takes an extraordinary
level of dedication."

Dedication "isn't something you can teach," Boulanger acknowledged. "But you
can teach all the things that lead up to it."

Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld praised combat controllers' dedication
during a visit in December to the Combat Control School, which he said,
"produces some of the finest warriors in the Air Force and the armed services."
Rumsfeld noted that "some 85 percent of the air strikes in Operation Enduring
Freedom were called in by Air Force combat controllers" — a testament, he said,
to the quality of the training they receive and the airmen's courage and
skills.

Today's combat controllers carry out far more diverse missions than envisioned
when they were established as Army Pathfinders during World War II. These
parachute infantrymen, trained in air traffic control, first earned their
stripes in 1943 when they used radios, smoke pots and flares to mark the way
for 82nd Airborne Division paratroopers jumping into Salerno, Italy.

Since then, Army Pathfinders — which became Air Force combat controllers after
the Air Force was established in 1947 -- expanded their missions to include
navigation aid and air traffic control. Now they're an integral part of a huge
percentage of U.S. military combat, humanitarian assistance and other missions.

Combat controllers say they expect this trend to continue in the future.
"Special Forces is just screaming for us out there," said Boulanger. "This is a
growth industry," agreed Tennant, "with combat controllers involved in more and
more emerging missions."

Biography:
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld [/bios/rumsfeld_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Pope Air Force Base, N.C. [http://public.pope.amc.af.mil/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related AFPS Articles:
Rumsfeld Meets Combat
Controllers, Paratroopers [/news/Dec2003/n12192003_200312191.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

200404234a.jpg A U.S. Air Force combat controller escorts the first civilian
aircraft to land on the commercial runway at Baghdad International Airport,
April 24, 2003. Photo by Staff Sgt. Cherie A. Thurlby, USAF

200404234a_hr.jpg High resolution photo.

200404234b.jpg A combat controller walks back to his teammates after practicing
firing movements at a local range, March 9, 2003, at an undisclosed location in
support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Photo by Staff Sgt. Jeremy T. Lock, USAF

200404234b_hr.jpg High resolution photo.

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 02:36 PM

From: DoD News <dlnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Military Phone Card Donation Program Goes Public
To: DODNEWS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 363-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 23, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Military Phone Card Donation Program Goes Public

The Department of Defense announced today that any American can now help troops in
contingency operations call home._ _ The Defense Department has authorized the
Armed Services Exchanges to sell prepaid calling cards to any individual or
organization that wishes to purchase cards for troops who are deployed. The “Help
Our Troops Call Home” program is designed to help servicemembers call home from
Operations Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

For those wishing to donate a prepaid calling card to a military member may log on
to any of the three Armed Services Exchange web sites: the Army and Air Force
Exchange Service http://www.aafes.com/ [http://www.aafes.com/] , the Navy Exchange
Service Command http://www.navy-nex.com/ [http://www.navy-nex.com/] , and the
Marine Corps Exchange http://www.usmc-mccs.org/ [http://www.usmc-mccs.org/] .
Click the “Help Our Troops Call Home” link. From there, a prepaid calling card may
be purchased for an individual at his or her deployed address or to “any service
member” deployed or hospitalized. The Armed Services Exchanges will distribute
cards donated to “any service member” through the American Red Cross, Air Force Aid
Society and the Fisher House Foundation.

The Armed Services Exchanges operate telephone call centers in Iraq, Kuwait,
Afghanistan, and other countries and aboard ships -- anywhere servicemembers are
deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. All
of these locations stay busy around the clock to keep up communication between
deployed troops and their loved ones. The cards available through the “Help Our
Troops Call Home” program offer the best value for calls made from the call
centers, never expire, and there are no added charges or connection fees.

Individuals and organizations also can show their support to deployed
troops and their families with gift certificates. The “Gift of Groceries” program
allows anyone to purchase commissary gift certificates at
http://www.commissaries.com [http://www.commissaries.com/] or by calling toll free
1 (877) 770-GIFT. The Armed Services Exchanges offer the “Gift From the Homefront”
gift certificate for merchandise at these exchange web sites: http://www.aafes.com
and http://www.navy-nex.com or by calling toll free 1 (877) 770-GIFT. Gift
certificates may be purchased to be mailed to servicemembers and family members or
will be distributed to “any servicemember.” Only authorized commissary and
exchange patrons may redeem the gift certificates at military commissaries and
exchanges, including those stores supporting deployed personnel around the globe.

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 03:01 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Thrift Savings Plan: Good Way to Increase Wealth, Executive Director Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Rudi Williams
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 23, 2004 – Defense Department officials want thousands more
service members to invest in their future through the Thrift Savings Plan, or TSP.

And now is a good time for service members to start paying themselves. The current
TSP open season started April 15 and runs until June 30. This is the time service
members can start or change their contributions to their TSP account.

Service members can contribute up to 9 percent of their basic pay each month, and
up to 100 percent of incentive pay and special pay, including bonus and combat
pay. But their total contributions from taxable pay may not exceed the Internal
Revenue Service limit of $13,000 for 2004.

"You're never too young or too old to start a savings account in TSP," said Gary
A. Amelio, executive director of the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board
and chief executive and managing fiduciary of TSP for federal employees. "The tax
deferral benefits are excellent and compounded earnings are simply a phenomenal
way to increase your wealth."

TSP assets total more than $110 billion. The plan maintains retirement savings
accounts for more than 3 million participants. This includes federal civilian
employees in all branches of government, U.S. Postal Service employees and members
of the seven uniformed services.

Created by the Federal Employees' Retirement System Act of 1986, TSP is a tax-
deferred savings option and lowers the taxable income for participants in the 2004
tax year. The savings plan is similar to 401k plans offered by many private
employers. It's separate from and in addition to the military retirement system,
which is based on years of service and rank.

Administered by the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, TSP was available
only to civilian employees until October 2001, when the program was extended to
active and reserve component service members s, including the Coast Guard. The
program also was extended to members of the Public Health Service and the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Members of the National Guard and Reserve who are also federal civilians are
allowed to have both a military and civilian TSP. "If you're part of both work
forces, you can have two different accounts," Amelio noted. "And you can combine
the accounts after you separate from either service."

But Amelio said if TSP participants with military and civilian accounts exceed the
IRS limit of $13,000 before the end of the calendar year, the plan will return the
excess contributions. "It's called an excess deferral," Amelio noted.

The government gives matching funds to Federal Employees' Retirement System TSP
participants. Uniformed services and Civil Service Retirement System participants
normally don't receive matching funds, but the service secretaries can authorize
matching funds for service members in critical military occupational specialties.

"FERS employees have a less lucrative defined benefit plan than does CSRS and the
uniformed services," Amelio explained. "So the TSP is intended to make up the
difference for FERS participants."

He also pointed out that CSRS and military participants are limited to
contributing up to 9 percent of their base pay, while FERS members are allowed to
contribute up to 14 percent of their base pay.

When service members leave active duty, they have several options. They can leave
their money in TSP, allowing it to continue to grow, take a partial or full
withdrawal, roll the money into another plan or an Individual Retirement Account,
or purchase an annuity. They also could choose to make periodic distributions to
themselves, Amelia said.

More than 220,000 uniformed service members signed up for TSP in 2002, the first
year they were eligible. By December 2003, more than 390,000 people were investing
in TSP.

"Participation numbers have been rising steadily since the plan was made
available," Amelio noted. "Today, we have about 410,000 members of the armed
services participating. We've been putting a special focus with DoD on getting
more and more armed service members to participate. So we're very pleased that the
numbers continue to go up, and DoD is helping us get the word out to the members."

Amelio attributes the increase in participation to knowledge, familiarity and
comfort.

"As members of the armed services become more familiar with TSP, the more they
like it," he said. "They find that it's a wonderful saving program, easy to
participate in, and doesn't cost them anything. The more they talk to their
colleagues in the armed forces about it, they become more comfortable about the
plan, and they like it more and more. That's why the participation is going up."

TSP has investment funds, which vary in risk and investment mixture: government
securities investment (G fund); fixed-income investment (F fund); common stock
index investment (C fund); small capitalization stock index investment (S fund);
and international stock index investment (I fund).

TSP enrollment can be done online through the MyPay Web site, or by completing a
TSP enrollment form (TSP-U-1) and turning it in at the local pay or personnel
office. Enrollment forms are available online at the TSP Web site.

Related Web Sites:
Thrift Savings Plan [http://www.tsp.gov/]
MyPay [https://mypay.dfas.mil/mypay.aspx]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
DoD Encouraging More Service
Members to Invest in TSP [/news/Feb2004/n02242004_200402241.html]

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 05:06 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Army Guard Division Commander Looks to Past, Future
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Master Sgt. Bob Haskell, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

FORT A.P. HILL, Va., April 23, 2004 – Maj. Gen. Daniel Long Jr. sounds like a
man with two sets of eyes when he talks about the Virginia Army National Guard
outfit he has commanded since August 2002.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="197" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404235a.jpg]
available.</font></table>

His eyes to the front are focused on training the 11,500 citizen-soldiers in
the 29th Infantry Division for the kind of warfare the Army is waging in Iraq
and Afghanistan.

The eyes in the back of his head are looking back 60 years when that Guard
division began fighting its way onto Omaha Beach at Normandy, France, on June
6, 1944, to begin the liberation of Europe from Nazi occupation.

Being trained and equipped to fight the right kind of war against the enemy at
hand is the common denominator. It is why Long is devoting a considerable
amount of his time and energy to, as he describes it, getting back to the
basics or "resetting the division."

"In light of what's happening in Iraq and Afghanistan and around the world
right now, I felt I needed to change the focus so this light infantry division
is prepared to do a lot of things without knowing specifically what's going to
be asked of it," Long recently explained here, where many of his soldiers were
qualifying with their weapons.

"I think knowing the division's history helps us to understand why it's so
important to train well," he added.

That is why Long is leading 100 soldiers, including 60 or so junior enlisted
people, to Normandy this June to be a part of the 60th anniversary of the D-Day
landings.

The division's band will be there. So will an honor guard. So will a lot of
young soldiers, who will walk the beach and climb the cliffs and talk to the
aging veterans who survived that dreadful time.

"I want those soldiers to talk to the veterans and bring the stories back to
the rest of the division," Long said. "I think it's important to know the
sacrifice and the commitment those men made back then. I think it's important
to see that they're just like you and me.

"The veterans are very proud of this division," he added. "They were great
patriots then, and we have great patriots now."

That's why Long insists it is time to get back to the basics so his soldiers
are prepared. That means they will fight and defeat terrorists who wear no
regulation uniforms and who kill with rocket-propelled grenades and improvised
explosive devices equally as well as their forebears helped fight and defeat
the more easily defined German army in 1944 and 1945.

It's a tall order, because his division is spread over Virginia, Maryland,
Massachusetts, Connecticut and North Carolina. Furthermore, 7,000 of the 29th's
soldiers have been guarding gates and patrolling airports in this country and
guarding detainees at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, since the global war
against terrorism began.

"Those things are important, but they really degrade your perishable infantry
skills," he observed.
Long is a lean, soft-spoken man, who balances his obligations as a one-man
construction firm in Fredericksburg, Va., with the full-time demands Army Guard
division commander.

He has proven himself as a soldier and commander by going through the Army's
Ranger and air assault schools, by earning the Expert Infantryman Badge, and
while serving as deputy commander of the Multinational Division North
stabilization force in Bosnia in 2001-02.

Therefore, Long has a good idea of what today's light infantry soldiers should
be prepared to do. He is determined to reset the division at the grassroots
level.

He envisions "multifunctional squads or teams" with leaders who can command and
control them "for a pretty good period of time."

Each squad, he said, should include a designated marksman and spotter, who can
hit targets 500 meters away and report on what the enemy is doing. Each squad
should include an engineer, who can breach obstacles with high explosives, and
a couple of medics, who can keep wounded soldiers alive while waiting to be
transported to a hospital.

He wants his soldiers to know how to patrol and convoy through cities, how to
deal with civilians and imbedded members of the news media, how to fly in
helicopters and how to fight at night.

"This division is supposed to own the night. The war doesn't knock off at 5
o'clock in the afternoon," Long said. "So we have to train during the night.
This division counts an awful lot on moving around the battlefield using
aviation assets," he added. "The soldiers have to know how to carry their
weapons and rucksacks on helicopters, how to dismount and what it's like to fly
in turbulent conditions. And the soldiers have to know how to work their way up
a street and how to pull someone out of a building."

Nearly 600 of his soldiers, in the 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry, are now
training to do those things at Fort Bragg, N.C., before they deploy to
Afghanistan this summer.

Long wants all of his soldiers to be trained in those skills in case they too
are sent into harm's way. He wants his soldiers to have the chance, like him,
to go through Ranger and air assault schools and to earn the Expert Infantryman
Badge so they will become better combat leaders and more motivated trainers.

"War is bad business," Long said. "You may only need your weapon for a few
seconds, but isn't it great to know you can do it right?

"If we're going to send our sons and daughters and our grandchildren to do
this, I want to make sure we've done everything we can for them to be
successful," he added. "Failure can be very expensive."

Related Web Sites:
Virginia Army National
Guard [http://www.virginiaarmynationalguard.net/]
29th Infantry Division [http://29thinfantrydivision.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

200404235c.jpg Virginia, home of the Army National Guard's 29th Infantry
Division, has its place of honor at the National World War II Memorial in
Washington, D.C. The memorial will be dedicated on May 28-30. Photo by Master
Sgt. Bob Haskell, USA

200404235c_hr.jpg High resolution photo.

200404235b.jpg Soldiers in the Virginia Army National Guard's 29th Infantry
Division were part of the "great crusade" that began on June 6, 1944. The
inscription is part of the new National World War II Memorial in Washington,
D.C. Photo by Master Sgt. Bob Haskell, USA

200404235b_hr.jpg High resolution photo.

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 05:16 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Bremer Speaks to Iraqis About Security, New Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 23, 2004 – The vast majority of Iraqis want to live as a
free, democratic and peaceful country, said the top coalition official in
Baghdad today, but they must work with the coalition to make this a reality.

Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III said on the Al-Iraqiyah national television
service that Iraq faces a choice between freedom and continued tyranny.

The people of the country must think of themselves first as Iraqis and only
then as Sunni, Shiia, Arab, Kurd or Turkoman. Any other choice will lead to a
path that copies Iraq's past, "where violence and fear rule, where power comes
from a gun, and where only the powerful and ruthless are secure."

Bremer said that former-regime fighters and foreign terrorists, along with
common criminals, pose the greatest threat to a new Iraq. While the coalition
has about 150,000 troops in Iraq providing security, the country will not be
truly secure until all Iraqis participate.

The coalition continues to train members of the Iraqi security forces, he said.
The U.S. Defense Department has taken on the task of training and equipping the
Iraqi police, the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps, the Border Police, the
Infrastructure Protection Service and the new Iraqi army. Bremer said members
of the Baathist Party must participate in the new Iraq.

"Sunday, the minister of defense announced his appointment of the top Iraqi
generals in the new Iraqi army," Bremer said. "Iraqi officers, drawn almost
entirely from the many honorable men of the former Iraqi army, already command
these forces. Over 70 percent of all the men in the Iraqi army and Iraq Civil
Defense Corps served honorably in the former army. They have asked to serve
their country again, and we welcome their renewed service."

Bremer assured Iraqis that those considered for jobs who were members of the
Baath Party will be carefully and thoroughly screened.

Part of the push is to establish a true Iraqi chain of command for Iraqi
forces. Officials in Baghdad said that the Iraqi units that fought best in the
riots of early April were those with good, clear Iraqi leadership.

As the coalition continues to train the new Iraqi army, more officers with the
former army will be called on to serve. "In the coming months, we will steadily
strengthen our security partnership, placing increasing responsibility in the
hands of Iraqis," Bremer said. "By June 30, Iraqi soldiers in the ranks will
report up through an Iraqi chain of command to Iraqi generals."

The administrator said the coalition will continue to work with Iraqi security
forces for some time after the return of sovereignty June 30.

Bremer also spoke about the situation around the rebel city of Fallujah. He
said the area has calmed in recent days. "But those responsible for the
lawlessness and unrest that began in Fallujah in February with the murder of 17
Iraqi policemen still bear heavy arms in the streets," he said.

Former regime elements and foreign fighters continue to hold the city hostage.
"These are the people who have brought death and destruction to Fallujah," he
said. "And Fallujah cannot be peaceful while such men remain at liberty.

"We call upon the people of Fallujah to support the legitimate Iraqi
authorities in bringing this crisis to an end," he continued. "We hope that
they join in ridding the city of heavy military weapons. Those who turn in
weapons voluntarily will not be arrested for weapons violations."

Bremer said if armed bands continue to patrol Fallujah and hang onto their
heavy weapons, "major hostilities could resume on short notice."

The administrator said that militias also threaten Iraqi security. "Ultimately,
Iraq cannot be secure, free and united if people can set up armed militias and
define the law of the land to suit their own ambitions," he said. "That is why
all armed elements in Iraq must be controlled by the central government, not
just now, but during the next government and the next and the next."

He said that militias present a particular problem in Najaf and Karbala. The
militias, part of radical cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's gangs, place these Shiite
holy sites in jeopardy, he added.

"I add my voice to those of the religious authorities who have called for
disarmament in these holy cities," Bremer said. "We are prepared to work with
these authorities to achieve disarmament. Armed militias should not be allowed
to exploit holy shrines to advance personal political interests."

Biography:
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Web Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Text of
Ambassador Bremer's Message to the Iraqi People, April 23, 2004 [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/transcripts/20040423_page_turn.html]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related AFPS Article:
De-Baathification Policy
'Remains Intact,' Coalition Says [/news/Apr2004/n04232004_200404232.html]

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 05:17 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Pentagon Memorial Fund Seeks Nearly $30 Million in Donations
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 23, 2004 – The Pentagon Memorial Fund campaign was officially
launched here April 22 during a Capitol Hill ceremony.

Almost $30 million is being solicited, according to a news release from the
Washington, D.C., public relations firm handling fund-raising for the memorial
on a pro bono basis.

About $17.5 million of collected funds will be used to build the memorial,
according to the release. Another $10 million in donations, the release
continued, will be earmarked for memorial maintenance.

Some $2 million already has been collected, including a $1 million donation
from the Anheuser-Busch Foundation, the first major corporate donor to the
Pentagon Memorial Fund.

James Laychak, president of the Pentagon Memorial Fund; retired Army Gen. Hugh
Shelton, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and an executive member
of the memorial fund committee, and other luminaries attended the Capitol Hill
kick-off ceremony, the release noted. Laychak lost his brother, David, in the
Pentagon attack.

The Pentagon Memorial will be built in a park-like setting among maple trees,
and will consist of 184 individual units -- the number of people killed in the
Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist-hijacked airliner attack on the Pentagon. Each
memorial unit will consist of a bench bathed in light from a reflecting pool.

The group of 184 memorials will be located near the spot where Flight 77 hit
the Pentagon, according to the release, which noted that victims' ages ranged
from 3 to 71 years old.

The Pentagon Memorial Fund Web site enables donations through a secure online
system, the release noted.

Related Site:
Pentagon Memorial Fund [http://www.pentagonmemorial.net]

Seoulstriker

04-23-2004, 05:30 PM

From: DoD Contracts <dlcontracts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Contracts, Friday Apr. 23, 2004
To: DODCONTRACTS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 364-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 23, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Friday, April 23, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Friday, April 23, 2004

CONTRACTS

AIR FORCE

Northrop Grumman Corp., Integrated Systems Air Combat Systems, San Diego, Calif.,
is being awarded a $16,836,191 cost plus fixed fee contract for the operation of
the Global Hawk System in a forward theater of operations for a classified length
of time, which includes personnel, equipment, logistics and communication support.
At this time, $9,661,000 of the funds has been obligated. This work will be
complete June 2004. Solicitations began March 2004. The Aeronautical Systems
Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, is the contracting activity
(F33657-03-G-4306-0016).

Boeing Satellite Systems, El Segundo, Calif., is being awarded a $9,848,783 cost
plus fixed fee contract and Northrop Grumman Space Technology, Redondo Beach,
Calif., is being awarded a $9,850,000 cost plus fixed fee contract to provide for
Innovative Space Based Radar Antenna Technology (ISAT). The objective of this
effort is for all offerors to provide proposals within the Broad Agency
Announcement funding guidelines for Preliminary Design Review and address the Broad
Agency Announcement requirements to develop ISAT designs and program plans for an
Objective System Concept; Flight Demonstration System; Ground Based risk reduction
demonstrations; and how they plan to meet the requirements to provide for
demonstration of large structure deployment and control and a method to achieve
antenna calibration and compensation to form a coherent beam. The locations of
performance are: Boeing Satellite Systems, El Segundo, Calif. (46%) and Northrop
Grumman Space Technology, Redondo Beach, Calif. (39%). At this time $9,783,000 of
the funds has been obligated to Boeing Satellite Systems and total funds have been
obligated to Northrop Grumman Space Technology. This work will be complete January
2005. Solicitation began June 2003 and negotiations were complete March 2004. The
Air Force Research Laboratory, Kirtland Air Force base, N.M., is the contracting
activity (Boeing Satellite Systems FA9543-04-C-0035 and Northrop Grumman Space
Technology FA9543-04-C-0036).

MOOG Aircraft Group, Salt Lake City, Utah, is being awarded a $5,930,000 firm fixed
price contract modification for Gearboxes applicable to the C-5 Aircraft. Location
of performance is MOOG Aircraft Group, Torrance, Calif. Total funds have been
obligated. This work will be complete by December 2004. Solicitation began June
2003 and negotiations were completed February 2004. The Headquarters Warner Robins
Air Logistics Center, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity
(F09603-03-C-0407-PZ003).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

AmeriQual Group, LLC* d/b/a AmeriQual Packaging, Evansville, Ind., is being awarded
$16,760,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment and indefinite quantity type
of contract for meals ready-to-eat (MREs) for all U.S. military services.
Performance completion date is expected to be December 31, 2004. Contract funds
will expire at the end of this fiscal year. There were three proposal solicitations
and three responded. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center
Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SP0300-03-D-Z106).

Federated Wholesale Inc. (woman-owned small business), Atlanta, Ga., is being
awarded a $16,206,500 firm fixed price with indefinite quantity type of contract
for health and comfort packs for all U.S. armed services. Performance completion
date is expected to be December 31, 2004. Contract funds will expire at the end of
this fiscal year. This was a web proposal solicitation and four responded. The
contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa.
(SP0300-04-D-Z109).

The Wornick Co.*, McAllen, Texas, is being awarded $15,359,625 fixed price with
economic price adjustment and indefinite quantity type of contract for meals
ready-to-eat (MREs) for all U.S. military services. Performance completion date is
expected to be December 31, 2004. Contract funds will expire at the end of this
fiscal year. There were three proposal solicitations and three responded. The
contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa.
(SP0300-03-D-Z107).

SOPAKCO Packaging, Mullins, S.C., is being awarded a $15,102,500 fixed-price with
economic price adjustment and indefinite quantity type contract for meals
ready-to-eat (MREs) for all U.S. military services. Performance completion date is
expected to be December 31, 2004. Contract funds will expire at the end of this
fiscal year. There were three proposal solicitations and three responded. The
contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa.
(SP0300-03-D-Z108).

ARMY

Arctic Slope Compliance Technologies*, Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on April 21,
2004, a $13,138,094 firm-fixed-price contract for an Interim Power Requirement to
install four - two mega watt engine generators, switchgear with breaker,
connections to substations, fuel storage and substation modifications. Work will
be performed at Fort Greely, Alaska, and is expected to be completed by Sept. 30,
2004. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This
was a sole source contract initiated on Feb. 9, 2004. The U.S. Army Engineer
District, Elmendorf, Alaska, is the contracting activity (W911KB-04-C-0012).

Dynetics Inc.*, Huntsville, Ala., was awarded on April 21, 2004, a delivery order
as part of a $137,720,413 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Analysis of data related
to a variety of defensive weapon systems. Work will be performed in Huntsville,
Ala., and is expected to be completed by April 20, 2009. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids
solicited via the World Wide Web on Dec. 3, 2003, and one bid was received. The
Virginia Contracting Activity, Huntsville, Ala., is the contracting activity
(HHM402-04-D-0007).

NAVY

_ _ McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Co.,
St. Louis, Mo. is being awarded a $7,821,584 firm-fixed-priced order against a
previously awarded Basic Ordering Agreement (N00019-03-G-0009) to perform the
technical and engineering services necessary to incorporate various engineering
change proposals into the F/A-18E/F aircraft. Work will be performed in El
Segundo, Calif. (90 percent); and St. Louis, Mo. (10 percent), and is expected to
be completed in December 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command is the contracting activity.

* Small Business

Seoulstriker

04-24-2004, 12:06 AM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 365-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 23, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Staff Sgt. Edward W. Carmen, 27 of McKeesport, Pa., died April 17, in Baghdad, Iraq
when the track of the tank he was in broke, the driver lost control and the tank
rolled off the bridge. Staff Sgt. Carman was assigned to the Army's 2nd Battalion,
12th Armored Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at
(703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-24-2004, 12:07 AM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 366-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 23, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Soldier who
was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Spc. Patrick D. Tillman, 27, of Chandler, Ariz., died April 22, in Afghanistan when
his patrol vehicle came under attack. Spc. Tillman was assigned to the Army's 2nd
Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact United States Army Special
Operations Command at 910-432-6005.

Seoulstriker

04-24-2004, 11:31 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Former Football Star Killed in Afghanistan
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 24, 2004 – He was so moved by the events of Sept. 11, 2001,
that he turned down a $3.6 million professional football contract to become an
Army Ranger.

Spc. Pat Tillman, 27, who was deployed with the 75th Ranger Regiment from Fort
Benning, Ga., was killed April 22 during a firefight in southeastern
Afghanistan. The Defense Department confirmed the soldier's identity late April
23.

U.S. Central Command officials said Tillman was part of a coalition combat
patrol that was ambushed near the village of Sperah, 40 kilometers southwest of
Khowst. The patrol responded immediately with direct fire, and a firefight
ensued before the enemy broke contact. Tillman and an Afghan Militia Force
soldier were killed during the engagement, and two coalition soldiers were
wounded, officials said.

Tillman and his brother, Spc. Kevin Tillman, made national news when they
walked away from careers as professional athletes to join the Army. Pat Tillman
played four seasons with the National Football League's Arizona Cardinals
before enlisting in May 2002. Kevin Tillman played minor league baseball in the
Cleveland Indians organization.

Both brothers earned their place among the elite Army Rangers and served
together in the same battalion during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Last July, the Tillman brothers also won the Arthur Ashe Courage award at the
11th annual ESPY Awards on ESPN. The award is presented to those who serve a
greater good outside the sporting arena, officials said.

Officials said both brothers shunned publicity and maintained a low profile
while they served. Army Lt. Col. Don Sondo, deputy commander of the U.S. Army
Infantry Training Brigade at Fort Benning, Ga., told the Army News Service
neither wanted special treatment for their celebrity status. The difference
between sports and combat is the cost of being wrong, said Sondo. In a sport,
you lose a game; in combat, you lose lives, he said.

Today the military and sports communities alike mourned the loss of a soldier
who made the ultimate sacrifice in the war on terror.

Cardinals vice president Michael Bidwell remembered Tillman's determination,
focus and fierce sense of competition and called his death "a terrible loss for
the National Football League and the Arizona Cardinals."
"In sports, we have a tendency to overuse terms like 'courage' and 'bravery,'
and 'heroes,'" Bidwell said. "Then someone special like Pat Tillman comes
along. And it reminds us what those terms really mean." Bidwell said the
Cardinals and the NFL "were privileged to have Pat Tillman in its family and we
are all weaker today following his loss."

The Cardinals announced the team is retiring Tillman's number 40, and that the
perimeter of their new stadium, scheduled to open in 2006, will be named "Pat
Tillman Freedom Plaza." The team also is joining with Arizona State University,
where Tillman played his college football, to establish a scholarship.

"Pat knew his purpose in life," said former Cardinals head coach Dave McGinnis.
"He proudly walked away from a career in football to a greater calling, which
was to protect and defend our country. Pat represents those who have and will
make the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. I am overwhelmed with a sense of
sorrow, but I also feel a tremendous feeling of pride for him and his service."

Pete Kendall of the Arizona Cardinals, Tillman's former teammate, said
Tillman's loss underscores the sacrifices America's armed forces make on a
daily basis during the war on terror. "My thoughts and my prayers go out to his
wife, his brother, his family, and to all the servicemen and women who are
making this sacrifice for us every day," he said.

"Pat Tillman personified all the best values of his country and the NFL. He was
an achiever and leader on many levels who always put his team, his community
and his country ahead of his personal interests," said NFL Commissioner Paul
Tagliabue. "Like other men and women protecting our freedom around the world,
Pat made the ultimate sacrifice and gave his life in the service of our
country."

White House spokesman Taylor Gross called Tillman "an inspiration both on and
off the football field."

"As with all who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the war on terror, his
family is in the thoughts and prayers of President and Mrs. Bush," Gross said.

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
75th Ranger Regiment [http://www.soc.mil/75thrr/75th_home.htm]
U.S. Army Infantry Training
Brigade [http://www.infantry.army.mil/itb/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Ranger
Brothers Get ESPY Award [http://defendamerica.mil/profiles/jul2003/pr071803a.html]

Seoulstriker

04-24-2004, 11:32 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Pfc. Hammer Finds a Home
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Linda D. Kozaryn
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 24, 2004 – A tiger-striped Iraqi kitten that wiggled its way
into the hearts of a U.S. Army unit has made its way to the United States,
thanks to a host of volunteers and two animal welfare groups.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404242a.jpg] available.
</font></table>

Soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry
Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, dubbed the tiny ball of fur that wandered into
their tent early last fall "Pfc. Hammer."

"He was born at the site," said Staff Sgt. Rick Bousfield. "There were two
other kittens in the litter, but they ran away. He stayed and kept mice out of
our living quarters and out of our dining facility."

Adopted by the troops, the young cat provided warmth and companionship in an
otherwise hostile environment. When the unit was attacked by mortar fire,
Hammer ran to the bunkers, where the nearest soldier scooped him inside his
body armor to wait out the attack.

"He was like our stress therapist over there," Bousfield recalled. "You'd come
in off raids where we'd been kicking in doors and guys would be sitting outside
by themselves. He'd come over and take their minds off the war."

When Bousfield learned the unit was leaving Iraq to return to Fort Carson,
Colo., he sent an e-mail asking for help to Alley Cat Allies, a national
nonprofit clearinghouse for information on feral and stray cats, in Washington,
D.C. The sergeant said he wanted to ensure his whole unit came home together,
and that included Pfc. Hammer.

Hammer "has been quite a morale booster for us, because we consider him one of
our troops," Bousfield wrote. "If there was a way that ACA could help get
Hammer back to the States, it would be a wonderful boost for the men to see the
cat who has won their hearts free – like the Iraqi people."

Bousfield's plea "brought the war home for us," said ACA national director
Becky Robinson. "This was a soldier in Iraq writing us. How could we say no to
a soldier in Iraq fighting for freedom?"

"His e-mail was so moving we felt like we couldn't say no," she said. "We had
never done anything like this, but the moment we finished reading it, it was a
given that we were going to figure out how to do this."

Hundreds of people sent e-mails and made donations to help get the cat to the
States after ACA posted Hammer's plight on on the organization's web site, said
Lynne Cummings, ACA director of gift planning.

"Alley Cat Allies doesn't usually get asked to do things in wartime," she said.
"It was a really nice thing for us to be able to do to show our support to Rick
and his unit. We didn't really care if we raised any money to help defray the
costs."

ACA joined forces with Military Mascots, a grassroots all-volunteer effort
dedicated to helping U.S. deployed service members who have befriended a canine
mascot on foreign soil. Supporters' donations, combined with money from ACA's
Compassion Fund, paid for Hammer's medical and travel expenses, Cummings said.

Working with a veterinary hospital in Kuwait, they arranged an international
flight for Hammer. Prior to leaving the region, the cat was neutered and given
a clean bill of health.

Bousfield returned from Iraq in early April. It took a week or so longer for
Pfc. Hammer.

An ACA volunteer met up with Hammer when he arrived in San Francisco and
accompanied the cat on a domestic flight to his new home outside of Denver.
Bousfield and his daughter Tiffany, 15, along with another company member, Sgt.
Robert Scott, were waiting for Hammer when he arrived at Denver International
Airport.

The ACA volunteer who accompanied the cat said he started purring and kneading
her arm as soon as he heard Bousfield's voice. The wartime bond formed
thousands of miles away had not been forgotten.

Back at Fort Carson, Bousfield reunited Hammer with his former cohorts. "We all
met at the same time to sign out on block leave so I took him in on his leash,"
Bousfield said. "They were happy to see him."

Hammer now lives with Bousfield's family – and five other cats. Bousfield said
they all get along now that they've gotten "the pecking order straight."

"We kept him in a room by himself for a week," he said. "Little by little we
let him out. He roams around all he wants to now. He runs around. He's fast.
The vet says he's an Egyptian Mau."

Related Sites:
1st Battalion, 8th
Infantry Regiment [http://www.carson.army.mil/UNITS/3rdbct/1-8inf/]
Fort Carson, Colo. [http://www.carson.army.mil/]
4th Infantry Division [http://www.hood.army.mil/4id/]
Alley Cat Allies [http://www.alleycat.org ]
Military Mascots [http://www.adoptpaws.org/mascots/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

200404242c.jpg Staff Sgt. Rick Bousfield and his daughter Tiffany, greet Pfc.
Hammer at Denver International Airport. Bousfield sought help from Alley Cat
Allies in Washington, D.C., to get the Iraq-born cat to the United States.
Courtesy photo

200404242b.jpg Staff Sgt. Rick Bousfield holds Pfc. Hammer, the Iraq-born cat
that joined his infantry company during their deployment in Iraq. Courtesy
photo

Seoulstriker

04-24-2004, 02:27 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Coalition Following Fallujah Agreement, Enemy Not Complying
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 24, 2004 – The coalition has fulfilled almost all aspects of the
agreement in Fallujah while anti-coalition forces there have fulfilled almost
none, coalition officials in Baghdad said today.

Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt went over each of the aspects on the signed agreement
during a news conference. Kimmitt is the deputy operations director for Combined
Joint Task Force 7.

Kimmitt said 1,000 to 3,000 enemy personnel are inside the city. He said they
consist mostly of former regime loyalists, and he estimated that foreign fighters
make up about 10 to 15 percent of the hostile forces in the city.

Kimmitt said these enemy forces have taken the city "hostage," and that it is up
to city leaders to rescue Fallujah from the anti-coalition forces' grip.

Kimmitt went through a list agreed to by representatives in
Fallujah. First and foremost, he said, was that the representatives agreed to a
cease-fire.

"The people inside Fallujah have not delivered a cease-fire," the general said.
"As recently as yesterday, the cease-fire report that we have indicated … nine
small-arms attacks and six indirect fire attacks inside Fallujah alone."

Beginning April 18, the Fallujans were supposed to collect and deliver illegal
heavy weapons to the Marines and Iraqi security forces ringing the city. Some
weapons have been delivered, but they are unserviceable weapons and old, corroded
ammunition. The numbers of weapons turned in are a small proportion of those being
used against coalition forces, Kimmitt said.

The Fallujans were supposed to allow the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps and the Iraqi
Police Service back into the city. "There are small numbers of ICDC and IPS inside
the city," the general said, "but it is hard to say that they have restored order
in that city or if they even are a credible organization inside that city."

Kimmitt listed the results so far from other aspects of the agreement: routine
coalition patrols inside the city, "Not happening," he said. Eliminating remaining
foreign fighters and criminals – "Not happening." Fallujan leaders condemning
foreign fighters – "It was our expectation that the leadership would stand up and
condemn those responsible for the violence inside Fallujah," the general said. "It
has not happened."

The leaders inside Fallujah said they would issue "positive public
statements and positive mosque statements." Kimmitt said there have been one or
two statements supporting the coalition, "but certainly not the volume and quality
that one would expect if the heart was in it."

Kimmitt said the coalition can use force at any time, but has chosen not to yet.
The coalition has honored all aspects of the agreement under its control. Marines
have stopped offensive operations. They only fire if fired upon. Kimmitt called
that their "inherent right."

Coalition forces have allowed humanitarian access to the city and have adjusted
the curfew, according to the agreement. Coalition forces allowed families back
into the city according to the agreement, but had to stop because the danger from
anti-coalition forces became too great.

Access to the hospital has been allowed. Coalition forces have facilitated passage
of official ambulances throughout the city. They have also allowed engineers to
fix the problems at the Fallujah dam. They have allowed tribal sheiks to enter the
city. Finally, when fuel tankers arrive in Fallujah, coalition forces will allow
them in.

"By any measure, it would appear to us that the coalition is demonstrating a full-
faith effort to achieve a peaceful resolution in the town of Fallujah," Kimmitt
said. "We would ask the people of Fallujah … to do the same."

Related Sites:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Leaders in Fallujah Have 'Days,
Not Weeks' to Comply [/news/Apr2004/n04222004_200404221.html]
Cease-Fire Agreement Reached In
Fallujah; 13 U.S. troops Killed In Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04192004_200404192.html]

Seoulstriker

04-24-2004, 06:58 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 367-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 24, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Shawn C. Edwards, 20, of Bensenville, Ill., died April 23, in Samarra, Iraq,
when his convoy vehicle hit an improvised explosive device. Pfc. Edwards was
assigned to the Army's 121st Signal Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, from
Kitzingen, Germany.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at
(703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-24-2004, 06:59 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 368-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 24, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Announces Change-in-Status of an Army Soldier Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier previously listed
as Duty Status Whereabouts Unknown who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

-==_ _==-

Sgt. Elmer C. Krause, 40, of Greensboro, N.C., has been unaccounted for since April
9, in Iraq, when his convoy came under attack by individuals using rocket-propelled
grenades and small arms fire. On April 23 his remains were recovered. Sgt. Krause
was assigned to the Army Reserve's 724th Transportation Company, Bartonville, Ill.

The incident remains under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at
(703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-25-2004, 02:34 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Patrols to Begin in Fallujah; Weapon Stockpiles Endanger Najaf
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 25, 2004 – City representatives in Fallujah have agreed to
allow joint patrols by Iraqi and U.S. forces to begin in the city April 28,
senior coalition officials said during a news conference in Baghdad today.

The coalition also is concerned about a "dangerous" situation in Najaf, as
illegal militias are stockpiling weapons and ammunition in mosques, holy sites
and schools, officials said.

Coalition senior spokesman Dan Senor said Coalition administrator Ambassador L.
Paul Bremer III asked Iraqi journalists to spread the word of the dangerous
situation in Najaf and the neighboring city of Kufa. Both areas are sacred to
the majority Shiia. Supporters of Shiia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr are stockpiling
weapons and ammunition in these holy places. "It puts all law-abiding citizens
of (Najaf) at risk," Senor said. "All individuals that are seeking a peaceful
resolution of the situation there must not tolerate the stockpiling of weapons
in mosques and in shrines and in schools."

Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt, the deputy operations director for Combined Joint
Task Force 7, said negotiations with representatives inside Fallujah have
yielded some fruit. The Fallujans have extended the deadline for illegal heavy
weapons turn-in to April 27. To date, few weapons have been turned in to
Marines and Iraqi security forces ringing the city.

The representatives also agreed to joint patrols of Iraqi Civil Defense Corps,
Iraqi Police Service and coalition forces beginning April 28. The Fallujan
representatives agreed to broadcast the information via secular means and in
local mosques.

The representatives also will broadcast "the information that anyone carrying a
weapon in Fallujah except legitimate security forces … will be considered
hostile," Kimmitt said.

The coalition agreed to allow 67 extended families back in to the city today.

The Fallujan representatives' track record has not been particularly good,
officials said. The enemy forces in Fallujah, which consist of former regime
supporters and foreign fighters, continued to violate the cease-fire. Kimmitt
said Marines experienced eight small-arms attacks and five indirect-fire
incidents in the past 24 hours. No heavy weapons turned in to the coalition in
the past 24 hours, he added.

Kimmitt said the coalition hopes to solve the problems in Fallujah peacefully,
but that there is more than enough military power in the area if that is called
for. He said it is time for the Fallujan leaders to start delivering results.
"The way we can trust and have confidence in those representatives is, quite
simply, let's start seeing delivery," he said.

In the south, anti-coalition forces launched attacks against the oil terminal
in the northern Persian Gulf. Navy small-boat patrols stopped the attacks
before any damage was done to Iraq's critical oil infrastructure, but two
sailors were killed and four were wounded. The sailors died when they
intercepted a dhow trying to get close to the oil terminal. The crew of the
dhow set off explosives that flipped the small inflatable boat.

Patrols and offensive operations occur in the rest of Iraq, Kimmitt said.

Biography:
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Coalition Following Fallujah
Agreement, Enemy Not Complying [/news/Apr2004/n04242004_200404243.html]

Seoulstriker

04-25-2004, 02:36 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Officials Tour Iraqi Cities to Begin Work on Reconstruction Projects
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 25, 2004 – Officials from the Coalition Provisional
Authority's Program Management Office have embarked on a seven-city tour of
central and northern Iraq to meet with local leaders and to discuss and begin
work on the reconstruction projects slated for their areas.

A coalition news release said representatives of the CPA, Iraqi ministries and
the military will visit Mosul, Tikrit, Fallujah, Baquba, Ramadi, Samarra and
Baghdad with lists of reconstruction projects slated to begin later this year.

These projects will be funded by a number of sources, including the U.S. $18.4
billion supplemental spending package, the United Nations Development Fund for
Iraq, the Commanders Emergency Response Program, the Rapid Regional Response
Program and the Capital Budget for Ministries, officials said.

"We are at a critical junction with the reconstruction effort," said Retired
Navy Rear Adm. David J. Nash, director of the Program Management Office. "We
are launching this tour to discuss these projects with the local councils and
work with them on restoring a better quality of life for the people of Iraq."

The construction projects are part of the overall reconstruction of Iraq's
vital infrastructure, officials said, and are categorized through six sectors,
including electricity; water resources and public works; security and justice;
transportation and communications; buildings, health and education; and oil.

Nash noted the reconstruction effort will provide a wide range of jobs and
opportunities for local businesses to participate in the project completion.

"Since we began this effort, one of our main goals was to provide jobs to the
Iraqi people and stimulate the economy through the rebuilding of their
infrastructure," he said. "We are taking that message to these areas to help
the Iraqi people earn a decent living and bring a solid foundation for their
local economies to grow."

The tour is scheduled to last three to five days, and other locations are
scheduled to follow, coalition officials said.

Biography:
Program
Management Office Director David J. Nash [http://www.rebuilding-iraq.net/portal/page?_pageid=33,35900&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Program
Management Office [http://www.rebuilding-iraq.net/portal/page?_pageid=33,30990&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL]

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 10:17 AM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 369-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 26, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Staff Sgt. Cory W. Brooks, 32, of Philip, S.D., died April 24, in Baghdad, Iraq, of
non-combat related injuries. Staff Sgt. Carman was assigned to the Army National
Guard's 153rd Engineer Battalion, from Wagner, S.D.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at
(703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 12:13 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: DoD Working to Speed Up Military Mail System
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 26, 2004 -- Acknowledging that problems persist in the
military mail system, Defense Department officials said they are taking steps
to improve the process.

A report this month by the General Accounting Office, which oversees government
agencies and spending, said long-standing problems with military mail delivery
need to be resolved.

DoD is aware of the problem and is working to remedy it, said Charles S. Abell,
principal deputy undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, in an
interview with the American Forces Radio and Television Service.

"Mail is very important to our service members and their families, and thus
it's very important to the Department of Defense and the leadership," Abell
said. "Every time we identify a glitch in the process, we move immediately to
fix it."

According to the GAO report, more than 65 million pounds of letters and parcels
were delivered to troops serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, and
problems with prompt and reliable mail delivery surfaced early on.

Congress and the White House forwarded more than 300 inquiries about mail
delivery problems to military postal officials, the report said.

The GAO reported that soldiers and Marines in Operation Iraqi Freedom were
unhappy with mail service; almost 60 percent of 127 service members surveyed
said they were "dissatisfied" with the timeliness of mail delivery.

Although a test of transit time for mail delivery by military postal officials
showed that so-called "data test letters" arrived in theater within the wartime
standard of 11 to 14 days, service members said their personal mail actually
took much longer to reach them.

More than half of the surveyed soldiers from Fort Stewart, Ga., and Marines
from Camp Pendleton, Calif., said they waited four weeks or longer to get mail.
Others commented that mail took as long as four months to work its way through
the system, the report said.

Another 80 percent said they were aware of mail that was sent to them but was
not received while they were deployed. The nonreceipt of mail became a concern
for friends and family back home, the report stated.

Abell said that during a recent visit to Iraq, he talked to commanders and
soldiers about mail delivery and found "generally good" reports.

He said slow delivery can be attributed to the sheer distance the mail has to
travel to reach the theater and the remote locations of some units on the
ground. Mail to Iraq is delivered either by tactical airlift, or along
dangerous convoy supply routes from Kuwait and Bahrain.

"It takes a lot of logistical support to get the mail from 'Mr. and Mrs.
America' to our units on the ground," Abell said. "We're working it, we're
watching the flow, and every time we can find a way to decrease the transit
time, we act on it."

Abell said stability in Iraq will help to ease some mail delivery problems,
because "units aren't moving around as much — we know where they are and the
logistical links to them to provide the mail." DoD also increased the number
and size of military postal units in Kuwait and Bahrain, Abell said, which has
helped to reduce transit times.

He noted that the mail will be especially important as election time
approaches, with thousands of service members expected to request and mail in
absentee ballots. To ensure that votes arrive in the mail on time, Abell said,
deployed eligible voters should seek out their voting assistance officers to
learn more about requirements to vote in their state, precinct, borough or
locality. "They have the materials and can help the individual go through the
process," he said.

Abell also urged overseas voters to request a ballot no later than the second
week of September. He said absentee voters should mail their ballot on or
before Oct. 20, so that "no matter where you are in our service overseas, your
ballot will get to the right place by the time it needs to be there to be
counted."

He also advised family members sending mail to Iraq to use a current address,
to print clearly and to include the proper postage.

Biography:
Principal Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for
Personnel and Readiness Charles S. Abell [/bios/abell_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
General Accounting Office [http://www.gao.gov/]
GAO Report on Military Mail
Problems [http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d04484.pdf]
American Forces Radio and Television
Service [http://www.afrts.osd.mil/]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Letters, Small Packages Get to
Troops Quicker [/news/Aug2003/n08282003_200308284.html]

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 12:13 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Roadside Bomb Injures Marines in Afghanistan
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 26, 2004 -- Coalition officials in Kabul, Afghanistan,
provided details today on some weekend operations and upcoming community
events.

Three Marines were injured, one seriously, when a roadside bomb detonated
alongside their convoy April 24 near the village of Daylanor in Kandahar
province. The injured Marines were taken to a military hospital at Kandahar Air
Field.

Also that day, a weapons cache consisting of 400 120 mm mortar rounds and 20
cans of MUV-2 mine tripwire fuses was found near Gardez. The items were removed
from the area and destroyed.

Another cache was found April 25 near Deh Rawod. It included 12 rocket-
propelled grenade rounds, 14 cases of 7.62 mm ammunition and a quantity of
grenades. An explosive ordnance disposal team disposed of the cache.

A grand opening for a new well in Shadu Village is scheduled April 28. The
Gardez Mamusi School is scheduled to open April 29.

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Combined Joint
Task Force 180 [http://www.centcom.mil/operations/CJTF_180/cjtf180.asp]

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 01:01 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Coalition, Iraqi Forces To Conduct Joint Patrols in Fallujah
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 26, 2004 – Coalition and Iraqi forces soon will conduct joint
security patrols in the troubled town of Fallujah, senior officials said today
in Baghdad.

Possibly as early as April 27, "we will have joint Iraqi Police Service, Iraqi
Civil Defense Corps and coalition patrols … come into the town of Fallujah,"
Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt, deputy operations director for Combined Joint
Task Force 7, told reporters during a news conference.

Coalition and Iraqi security elements are going into Fallujah, the general
explained, to occupy Iraqi police stations and establish street patrols to
assert Iraqi control of the city. The joint patrols are part of a cease-fire
agreement between coalition and Fallujah authorities that was announced April
19.

Kimmitt observed that outlawed weapons turn-ins in Fallujah – also part of the
cease-fire agreement – have left much to be desired. Thus far, he said small
quantities of mostly old, worn-out weapons have been delivered.

The Fallujah cease-fire remains in effect, he pointed out, while noting U.S.,
coalition and Iraqi security forces have the right to defend themselves against
attacks.

Addressing reports that insurgents in Najaf are storing weapons in mosques, Dan
Senor, chief CPA spokesman, noted that such a practice would not be tolerated.

Senor, who accompanied Kimmitt at the news briefing, said mosques used for
storing weapons and other military purposes are not covered under the Geneva
Convention, and therefore are legitimate targets.

Kimmitt told reporters that U.S. Marines today came under rocket-propelled-
grenade and small-arms fire from a mosque in northwest Fallujah. The general
said coalition forces returned fire and subsequently entered the mosque, which
was deserted except for numerous spent shell casings found in the mosque's
minaret prayer tower.

Later in the day, coalition troops were attacked and pinned down from small-
arms and RPG fire coming from the same mosque, Kimmitt said. Requested
coalition air and tank support fired on the mosque. Eight enemy troops were
killed in the exchange, and the mosque received some damage, he reported. One
coalition soldier died of his wounds and eight others were wounded, the general
said.

Kimmitt also reported two U.S. soldiers were killed and five others were
wounded today by an explosion during a search of a building in central Baghdad.
Eight Iraqi civilians also were injured by the blast, he said.

The general also noted that a coalition observation post near Karbala was
engaged by an enemy patrol late yesterday, and two of the enemy were killed.

The situation in and around Basra, the site of recent car bombings, "continues
to be peaceful," Kimmitt reported.

Related Sites:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Patrols to Begin in Fallujah;
Weapon Stockpiles Endanger Najaf [/news/Apr2004/n04252004_200404252.html]
Cease-Fire Agreement Reached
In Fallujah; 13 U.S. troops Killed In Iraq [/news/Apr2004/n04192004_200404192.html]

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 01:12 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 370-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 26, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Department of Defense Identifies Navy, Coast Guard Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two sailors and one
coast guardsman who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died April 24 in
the Northern Persian Gulf as a result of a waterborne attack. They were assigned
to the USS Firebolt, forward deployed to Manama, Bahrain

Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Michael J. Pernaselli, 27, of Monroe, N.Y

Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher E. Watts, 28, of Knoxville, Tenn

Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Nathan B. Bruckenthal, 24, of Smithtown,
N.Y. Bruckenthal was assigned to Tactical Law Enforcement Team South Detachment
403.

For further information on the U.S. Navy, please contact COMUSNAVCENT Public
Affairs at 011-973-17-85-4027 or via e-mail to pao@cusnc.navy.mil
[pao@cusnc.navy.mil] . For more information about the U. S. Coast Guard please
contact Coast Guard Lt. Buddy Dye at the Coast Guard Atlantic Area Public Affairs
Office at (757) 398-6272.

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 03:11 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Pope C-130s Supply Beans and Bullets to Terror War
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 26, 2004 -- They like to think of themselves as the "18-
wheeler trucks" that supply the front lines in the war on terror.

C-130 Hercules aircraft crews from the 2nd and 41st Airlift Squadrons at Pope Air
Force Base, N.C., deliver food, ammunition and troops throughout Southwest
Asia. Unlike larger C-5 Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft that
provide long-haul support to logistical hubs, C-130 crews perform the tactical
portion of the airlift mission — often landing on rough dirt airstrips or
airdropping troops and equipment into hostile areas.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404264a.jpg]
available. </font></table>

"We can land anywhere," said Capt. Andy McGee, assistant director of operations
and a C-130 pilot for the 2nd Airlift Squadron. "All we need is 3,000 feet (of
runway)."

Airmen from the two squadrons work together as what McGee calls a "super
squadron" to fly thousands of sorties throughout the theater. "We're putting
the beans and bullets there to support the war on terror," said Master Sgt.
Willie Wellbrock, tactics loadmaster and superintendent for the 2nd Airlift
Squadron. In addition, the crews evacuate wounded troops from the battle zone.

A low-altitude combat drop over Afghanistan in September 2001 marked a variety
of "firsts" for the airmen: the first time since the Vietnam War that Pope's C-
130s have conducted an airdrop at low altitude during combat, and the first
combat drop of a container delivery system using night-vision goggles.

Since their introduction into the Air Force inventory four decades ago, the
turboprop C-130s have earned their stripes on a full range of peacetime as
wartime missions. What makes them so versatile is their ability to haul a wide
variety of oversized cargo and to deliver their cargo into remote areas lacking
fixed airport facilities.

"The vast majority of airlift in Iraq is C-130s," said McGee. "I guess you
could call us the American Eagle airline of the theater."

Wellbrock said the C-130 crews in Southwest Asia conduct missions exactly as
they train: flying in at a low level and spending minimal time "in the box"
before taking off again to avoid becoming a target.

Even before Sept. 11, 2001, C-130 crews from the 2nd and 41st Airlift Squadrons
were operating in Southwest Asia to provide logistical support for Operation
Southern Watch, which enforced the no-fly zone over southern Iraq.

But McGee said the terrorist attacks made a big impact on the workload and the
crews themselves. Sorties in the region no longer felt like "milk runs."

"After 9/11, we all felt that we had a true mission to go do," he said.
"Everything we did became much more focused."

The operational tempo picked up dramatically, with crews sometimes pulling 18-
to 20-hour workdays to fulfill mission requirements that continue around the
clock, seven days a week.

McGee said this pace has sharpened the crews' skills while giving younger
airmen far more experience than might be expected so early in their careers.
"You'd be surprised how many loadmasters we have who have flown more than 100
combat missions and still aren't yet old enough to drink a beer," he said.

"Since 9/11, kids come in and mature so quickly," said Wellbrock. "They learn
very early on that what we do is all about teamwork, with everybody relying on
everybody else."

Wellbrock said crews keep motivated by seeing firsthand the contribution
they're making and by getting the opportunity to apply their skills to support
the war on terror. "It's rewarding to go do what we're trained to do," agreed
McGee. "It validates everything we've been trained for."

Related Sites:
Pope Air Force Base, N.C. [http://public.pope.amc.af.mil/]
C-130
Hercules [http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?fsID=92]
C-5 Galaxy [http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?fsID=84]
C-17 Globemaster
III [http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?fsID=86]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

200404264b.jpg Airman 1st Class Chris Green, a crew chief with the 2nd Airlift
Squadron from Pope Air Force Base, N.C., deployed to Southwest Asia, prepares
the hydraulic jack to lift a C-130 aircraft to replace a flat tire April 1,
2003. The aircraft is flying missions in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Photo by
Staff Sgt. Quinton T. Burris, USAF

200404264b_hr.jpg High resolution photo

200404264c.jpg Loadmasters from the 41st Airlift Squadron, 43rd Operations
Group Pope Air Force Base, N.C., prepare for a low-altitude combat airdrop over
Afghanistan on Sept. 1, 2001, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Photo
by Senior Airman Bethann Hunt, USAF

200404264c_hr.jpg High resolution photo

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 03:12 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Fallujah Reconstruction Funds Await Restored Security
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 26, 2004 -- Millions of dollars in reconstruction projects
are available for Fallujah once security is re-established in the troubled
Iraqi city, a Combined Joint Task Force 7 news release reported today.

Marines in Fallujah met with the city's mayor and awarded contracts to move
humanitarian assistance supplies throughout the city. Several hundred tools
were stored at the Fallujah Liaison Team building - including shovels, picks
and wheelbarrows - which will be used for future street-clearing and debris
removal projects, the news release said.

A Marine government support team also signed a contract April 25 for an initial
$6,400 payment to the Al-Yam publishing company for adult literacy program
textbooks. The new textbooks will increase the efficiency and effectiveness of
teaching programs geared toward adults, officials said in the news release.

The task force also reported that Marines in Ramadi checked on the progress of
three of their street improvement projects today. Improvements to road
conditions in the city now allow easier travel and eliminate raw sewage from
running into the street, the news release said, and several similar projects
there are still ongoing.

A new class of 88 Iraqi police officers graduated recently from the Ramadi
Police Academy, the news release reported. The new Iraqi police were trained in
handcuffing procedures, first aid, communications, building clearing techniques
and weapons training, officials said, and graduates were issued uniforms,
flashlights and pistols.

"It's an honor for us to become policemen and to help make peace for our people
and their property," said Iraqi Police Lt. Col. Rafea Muhmoud Mustafa, the
class's honor graduate.

Marines visited police in Karabilah April 25 to deliver helmets and hydration
systems, the task force reported. Marines and Iraqi police there conducted
joint patrols on the first day of work for another recently graduated class of
Iraqi police.

Another CJTF 7 news release reported more than $300,000 will be pumped into
eastern Baghdad neighborhoods, as a variety of coalition civil affairs projects
get under way. The projects include trash and debris removal, publication of an
English and Arabic newspaper, and renovations of a middle school said Army
Capt. Brian Donnelly, a civil affairs adviser for units in eastern Baghdad.

These projects will continue, he said, and as more money begins to stabilize
the economy, more projects will be turned over to the Iraqi people.
Improvements to marketplaces and other business areas are planned, he said.

Modernization of Iraqi municipal systems, such as sewage and roadways, also is
a priority for civil affairs, Donnelly said.

"We continually assess the needs of the Iraqi people through the neighborhood
advisory councils and work to match their needs with available local
resources," he said. "There is an abundant supply of quality labor. The
majority of our projects are designed to employ that work force. It allows
Iraqis to make Iraq better for themselves, and gives them pride in their
accomplishments."

Related Sites:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 03:12 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 373-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 26, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who
were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, 22, of Allegany, N.Y.

Cpl. Christopher A. Gibson, 23, of Simi Valley, Calif.

Gibson died April 18 and Dunham died April 22 due to injuries received
from enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. They were assigned to 3rd Battalion,
7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, at
Twentynine Palms, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact Marine Corps
Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms Public Affairs Office at (760) 830-5472.

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 03:34 PM

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 04:56 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Saddam Regime Toppled Because of Its Threat to America, Bush Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 26, 2004 – In the changed world after the Sept. 11, 2001,
terror attacks, Saddam Hussein's threat to the United States and the world
couldn't be ignored any longer, President Bush said today in Minneapolis.

"One of the lessons of Sept. 11 is that when we see threats, we must deal with
them before they fully materialize," Bush told attendees at a community college
convention. "I saw a threat in Iraq."

Noting both the U.S. Congress and the United Nations agreed with him, Bush
pointed out that Saddam had attacked his neighbors and used weapons of mass
destruction on his own people. The former dictator also paid assassins "to go
kill Jewish people," he added, consorted with other terrorists, and ignored the
United Nations for a decade. Saddam refused "to listen to the demands of the
free world," Bush said.

The president said he wasn't willing to endanger American security by trusting
a madman and hoping for the best. "I will always make the decision to keep
America secure," Bush told the Minnesota audience.

Today, Saddam is gone and America and its allies are working to make Iraq
secure and free, the president said. That, Bush acknowledged, is hard work.

The efforts in Iraq will pay off, the president said, because "a free society
in the midst of a region of the world where there's hatred and intolerance will
be a historic moment for change for the better." Iraq, the president said,
represents "a historic opportunity to spread peace and freedom."

Related Site:
Text
of Remarks by President Bush at the American Association of Community Colleges
Annual Convention, Minneapolis, April 26, 2004 [http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/04/20040426-6.html]

Seoulstriker

04-26-2004, 05:12 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 371-20
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 26, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on April 24, in Taji, Iraq, when
mortar rounds hit their camp. The four Soldiers were assigned to the Army National
Guard's 39th Support Battalion, 39th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division,
Hazen, Ark. Killed were:

Capt. Arthur L. Felder, 36, of Louisville, Ark.

Chief Warrant Patrick W. Kordsmeier, 49, of North Little Rock, Ark.

Staff Sgt. Billy J. Orton, 41, of Humnoke, Ark.

Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Brandon, 35, of Hazen, Ark.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-27-2004, 02:52 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Coalition Officials Defend Attack on Iraqi Minaret
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 27, 2004 — Coalition officials in Baghdad today defended the
U.S. Marines' decision to call in a strike on a minaret in Fallujah April 26
after determining that insurgents were using it to launch attacks with small-
arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades.

"We very reluctantly go after holy sites, but when those holy sites are used to
store and fire weapons, we must take action if our Marines are pinned down,"
Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt, deputy operations director for Combined Joint
Task Force 7, told reporters at a news conference.

The Marines confirmed that insurgents were using the minaret as a staging
platform following an attack earlier in the day. After cordoning off the area,
they entered the mosque and found "a significant number of ammunition shell
casings," Kimmitt said. Following the search, the Marines returned to their
positions without damaging the minaret.

Kimmitt said the Marines called in the strike only after taking fire from the
minaret the second time that day and realizing that their return fire was not
enough to take out the enemy. This, he said, left the Marines with a choice:
"Am I going to let my fellow Marines die, or am I going to recognize that that
minaret has lost its protected status under international law and is being used
as a firing platform and needs to go away?"

The Marines "made the right choice," Kimmitt said, by calling in precision
strikes that toppled the minaret but inflicted "a minimal amount of collateral
damage … to any other part of that mosque."

"On the few occasions when we must attack a holy site when it has lost its
protected status under the Geneva Conventions, we have used the minimal amount
of force necessary to protect our Marines," he said.

Kimmitt said the perpetrators may not have been residents of Fallujah or Iraq,
but rather, foreign fighters trying to drag the city's people into the fight
"to create a wedge of animosity between the coalition and the people of Iraq."

That, he said, is why it is important for everyone to take a stand to prevent
insurgents from using mosques to store and fire weapons and execute military
operations aimed at derailing progress in Iraq. "We cannot passively sit by —
whether we are the coalition forces, the Iraqi security forces or the people of
Iraq — and allow these people to drive a wedge between what we collectively are
trying to do as this country moves to sovereignty and democracy," Kimmitt said.

Just as the Marines took every precaution before calling in the attack on the
minaret, Kimmitt said, he expects to see them working to rebuild it after
stability is restored in Fallujah.

Kimmitt said the Marines have unilaterally suspended their offensive operations
in the city for almost 17 days. "They have sat there in their positions within
a cordon, peacefully waiting until a resolution has been established with the
people of Fallujah to end this hostage situation … by the foreign fighters and
terrorists," he said.

"A peaceful situation is what we seek," Kimmitt added, while emphasizing that
the coalition is prepared to use force and has "more than sufficient force" in
place should the need arise.

Kimmitt said he expects joint patrols by coalition and Iraqi security forces to
begin in the city after commanders on the ground determine that the Iraqi Civil
Defense Corps and Iraqi Police Service are properly trained for the mission.
Kimmitt said that while the patrols could begin as soon as April 29, "we'll let
the commander on the ground use his judgment about when that happens."

Related Site:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Coalition, Iraqi Forces To
Conduct Joint Patrols in Fallujah [/news/Apr2004/n04262004_200404263.html]

Seoulstriker

04-27-2004, 02:53 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Commission to Help Compensate Iraqis Persecuted by Saddam
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 27, 2004 — Coalition officials announced today the formation
of a commission to compensate Iraqis who were fired, wrongfully imprisoned or
otherwise persecuted by deposed dictator Saddam Hussein.

Dan Senor, senior advisor to the Coalition Provisional Authority, called the
establishment of the commission an important step in moving the country toward
reconciliation and healing. "Iraq cannot move forward without dealing with its
past, and we think this is a part of that," he said.

Details of the special commission are still being worked out, Senor said, but
it will be run by Iraqis, with oversight led by the interim Iraqi government
that assumes sovereignty from the Coalition Provisional Authority on June 30.
The coalition will set aside "substantial funding" to cover initial startup
costs, he said.

Senor said that while it's impossible to fully compensate those who suffered
under three decades of Saddam's brutal dictatorship, the commission will "begin
the process of correcting these injustices of the past."

The coalition expects "in the days ahead" to provide more concrete details
about the commission, including the name of the person who will run it, Senor
said.

Related Site:
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]

Seoulstriker

04-27-2004, 02:53 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 375-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 27, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

General Officer Announcements

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld announced today that the President made the
following nominations:

Marine Corps Reserve Colonel Eugene G. Payne, Jr., has been nominated for
appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Payne is currently serving as the
chief of staff, Marine Corps Reserve Support Command, Kansas City, MO.

Marine Corps Reserve Colonel Robert D. Papak has been nominated for appointment to
the grade of brigadier general. Papak is currently serving as the chief of staff,
II Marine Expeditionary Force Augmentation Command Element, Camp Lejeune, NC.

Seoulstriker

04-27-2004, 05:12 PM

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 376-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 27, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Tuesday, April 27, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Tuesday, April 27, 2004

CONTRACTS

ARMY

Simula Aerospace & Defense Group, Phoenix, Ariz., was awarded on April
26, 2004, a $30,507,240 firm-fixed-price contract for crew protection kits for the
heavy expanded mobility tactical trucks, palletized load system trucks, heavy
equipment transporter trucks and the M915 series trucks. Work will be performed in
Phoenix, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by May 28, 2005. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on March 23, 2004. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments
Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-04-C-0259).

Raytheon Co., Bedford, Mass., was awarded on April 26, 2004, a
$9,529,438 modification to a cost-plus-award-fee contract for FY03 PATRIOT
engineering services. Work will be performed in Tewksbury, Mass. (71 percent),
Burlington, Mass. (12 percent), Bedford, Mass. (12 percent), Andover, Mass. (2
percent), Huntsville, Ala. (1 percent), El Paso, Texas (1 percent), and Orlando,
Fla. (1 percent), and is expected to be completed by Jan. 31, 2004. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on Sept. 21, 1998. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command,
Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (DAAH01-99-C-0028).

AM General Corp., Mishawaka, Ind., was awarded on April 23, 2004, a
$7,250,000 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for refurbishment and repair
of existing buildings to establish a maintenance and repair facility for Egypt's
fleet of high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles. Work will be performed in
Cairo, Egypt, and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2004. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on July 27, 2001. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments
Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-03-C-S015).

_DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AGENCY_

Sprint Communications Co. LP, Overland Park, Kansas is being awarded a
contract for continuity of Government Emergency Telecommunications Service
Inter-Exchange Carrier performance. The Defense Information Technology Contracting
Organization is awarding contract HC1013-04-C-5003, on behalf of the Department of
Homeland Security (DHS). The Government Emergency Telecommunications Service is a
major DHS / National Communications System program for improving national security
and emergency preparedness telecommunications in the event of a natural or man-made
disaster by utilizing the surviving assets of the public switched network to
provide priorities and routing alternatives not available to normal
telecommunications traffic. This acquisition provides for the continuity of the
Government Emergency Telecommunications Service within the Sprint Communications
Company LP long distance network. Period of performance is 119 months including a
47-month base period plus three two-year options. Face value of the instant
contract is $7,137,391 and total cumulative face value of the contract is
$19,620,776. Contract type is firm fixed price. This acquisition does not include
any foreign military sales. This acquisition was publicized as sole source
pursuant to the authority of 10 U.S.C 2304(c)(1), only one responsible source and
no other source of supplies or services will satisfy Agency requirements. Only one
offer was received. Sprint Communications Company LP is a large business located
at 13221 Woodland Park Road, Herndon, Va. 20171-3000. Type of DHS appropriation
is operation and maintenance. The contracting activity is the Defense Information
Technology Contracting Organization, 2300 East Drive, Scott Air Force Base, Ill.
62225-5406. The Defense Information Technology Contracting Organization is a
fee-for-service organization. DHS has provided all funding for this contract and
the costs incurred in conducting the procurement. No Department of Defense
appropriations were expended for procurement activities associated with this
acquisition.

NAVY

Darlington Inc., Arlington, Va., is being awarded a $7,083,858
modification to previously awarded firm-fixed-price delivery order under basic
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (M67854-01-D-2006) for three Joint
Enhanced Core Communication Systems (JECCS). The JECCS provides telecommunication
services, local area networks, network management services, messaging services,
INMARSAT, and UHF-TACSAT capabilities for a Marine Expeditionary Unit. Work will
be performed in Wando, S.C., and is expected to be completed April 2006. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was
competitively procured as a 100 percent small business set-aside; the solicitation
released electronically, with one offer received. The Marine Corps Systems
Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.

AIR FORCE

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Rolling Meadows, Ill., is being awarded
a $5,699,048 firm fixed price contract modification to provide for FY2004 spares in
support of the F-15 electronic systems test set program. Various quantities of 72
differenct items will be purchased. Total funds have been obligated. This work
will be complete by October 2005. Negotiations were completed April 2004. The
Headquarters Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is
the contracting activity (F41608-93-C-0064, P00186).

Seoulstriker

04-27-2004, 05:12 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Stability Returns to Haiti, Force Plans for Successors
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 27, 2004 – The Multinational Interim Force in Haiti has begun
planning for a follow-on force June 1 no matter what form it takes, officials
in Haiti said.

U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan said the follow-on force would have about
6,700 military personnel and would be in place to relieve the U.S. led interim
force on time.

Officials said they have begun planning for the transfer of authority.
Commanders have met with the U.N. assessment team and with members of the
military from interested donor countries.

About 3,800 service members from four countries are in the Multinational
Interim Force. The United States has about 2,000 service members in Haiti,
France has more than 900, Canada has more than 500 and Chile has more than 300.

The U.S. contingent has expanded into Les Cayes in the south and Hinche in the
central plateau. The French continue to expand the security zone in the
northern part of the country.

The force is working with nongovernmental and governmental agencies to deliver
humanitarian assistance to the population, said Marine Lt. Col. Dave Lapan,
spokesman for the force. The force recently distributed $800,000 worth of
excess Defense Department medical supplies to the hospitals and clinics in and
around the capital of Port-au-Prince.

"As security has gotten better, we've been able to switch to more humanitarian
work," Lapan said. The force has helped deliver food, dig wells and provide
medical care.

The U.S. Coast Guard still is patrolling around Haiti. Cutters intercepted a
number of boats recently and repatriated a number of migrants today, Lapan
said.

The force has started advertising a cash-for-weapons program in Haiti. The
force "will pay for information leading to weapons caches," Lapan said. The
force will pay only after illegal weapons are seized and evaluated. "We're not
going to pay for an old, rusty, nonusable weapon," Lapan said.

Biography:
United Nations
Secretary-General Kofi Annan [http://www.un.org/News/ossg/sg/pages/sg_biography.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
United Nations [http://www.un.org/english/]
U.S. Southern Command [http://www.southcom.mil/home/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Powell Visit Haiti, Says U.N.
Action Averted 'Bloodbath' [/news/Apr2004/n04062004_200404064.html]
Myers Praises Interim Force
for Haitian Progress [/news/Mar2004/n03142004_200403141.html]
Myers Discusses Haiti,
Terrorism, Brazil's Shoot-Down Policy [/news/Mar2004/n03112004_200403112.html]
Multinational Force to Help
Haitian Police Disarm Populace [/news/Mar2004/n03102004_200403107.html]
Pace Defends Marine Actions in
Haiti, Provides Update [/news/Mar2004/n03092004_200403097.html]
Marines Take on Haitian
Peacekeeping Mission [/news/Mar2004/n03012004_200403011.html]
Rumsfeld Discusses Haiti
Deployment [/news/Mar2004/n03012004_200403014.html]
Marines Ordered to
Haiti [/news/Feb2004/n02292004_200402292.html]

Seoulstriker

04-27-2004, 06:27 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Surviving Sisters to Complete Army Duty Outside of Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 27, 2004 – The surviving Witmer sisters, Charity and Rachel,
today decided to complete their active military duty elsewhere than Iraq.

Their sister, Spc. Michelle Witmer, 20, a military policewoman with the 32nd
Military Police Company, was killed April 9 during an ambush in Baghdad. All
three sisters -- all in the Wisconsin Army National Guard –- were serving in
Iraq.

"We are requesting reassignment to other duties that are appropriate for our
military skills and experiences," the sisters noted in a joint statement
released today. "We will always cherish our memories of Michelle."

Sgt. Charity and Spc. Rachel Witmer had returned to Wisconsin for Michelle's
funeral while deciding whether to return to Iraq. A Defense Department policy
gave them the option to complete their military duty elsewhere.

The sisters noted that Maj. Gen. Al Wilkening, the Adjutant General of the
Wisconsin Army National Guard, had "asked us to complete our active duty
obligations in new assignments that would not take us back to Iraq."

Wilkening pointed out in a statement that if either surviving sister would be
harmed upon redeployment to Iraq, "a family already devastated by one tragic
loss would be needlessly shattered again … and forever."

News reports noted that other Witmer family members, too, wanted the sisters to
obtain a reassignment from Iraq duty.

Related Site:
Wisconsin Army
National Guard [http://badger.state.wi.us/agencies/dma/wiarng.htm]

Seoulstriker

04-27-2004, 06:28 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Negotiating in Fallujah 'Worth a Try,' Leaders Say
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 27, 2004 – Negotiating with Fallujans to try to defuse the
situation in the Iraqi city is "worth a try," defense leaders said during a
press conference today.

American Marines supported by Iraqi Civil Defense Corps personnel ring
Fallujah. The Marines declared a unilateral cease-fire April 9 and
representatives of the Iraqi Governing Council negotiated with Fallujan leaders
to try to establish coalition control without fighting.

Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld said Coalition Provisional Authority and
coalition military leaders have closely monitored the talks. But this is not
open-ended.

"If at some point the military decides that the string has run out, then they
will tell us that and take appropriate action," Rumsfeld said. "At the present
time, I think it's accurate to say that their conclusion is that they see
sufficient prospects that it leads them to believe that this is a useful thing
to be doing."

"It's worth a try," Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers said.

Rumsfeld said he believes that it's possible that the coalition and the
Fallujan leaders can work something out. Coalition officials estimate that
there are between 1,000 and 3,000 hard-core fighters in the city of about
300,000 people. Coalition officials said these fighters are remnants of the
former regime's Republican Guard, intelligence services and Special Republican
Guard. Foreign fighters also make up a significant part of the enemy forces.

Myers also addressed the idea that up-armored humvees do not provide enough
protection to U.S. service members. According to Army sources, the reinforced
vehicles include 200-pound steel-plated doors, steel plating under the cab and
several layers of bonded, ballistic-resistant glass. The up-armored humvees
provide protection from assault rifles, artillery airbursts and have front and
rear anti-mine protection.

Myers said evidence shows the up-armored humvees do reduce injuries to service
members hit by improvised explosive devices. But, he cautioned there is no
vehicle – including an M-1A1 tank – that can entirely protect service members
riding in it.

U.S. Central Command requested more up-armored humvees, and the Army ramped up
production from 220 to 300 per month. Overall, CENTCOM wants 4,402 up-armored
humvees in Iraq by the end of September 2004 and is on the way to making that
goal.

The Army will continue buying the vehicles at the present rate through March
2005.

Biography:
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld [/bios/secdef_bio.html]
Gen. Richard B. Myers, USAF [/bios/myers_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil]
Coalition Provisional
Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org]<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Seoulstriker

04-27-2004, 06:40 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Coalition Responds to Enemy Attack in Fallujah
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 27, 2004 — A U.S. military AC-130 Spectre gunship fired on
suspected insurgent positions in Fallujah today, attacking weapons storage
sites used by anti-coalition forces.

News reports said the coalition launched the attack on targets in Fallujah
today at about 11 p.m. Iraq time after anti-coalition forces fired on Marine
defensive positions. U.S. pool reporter Karl Penhaus said a gunship circled
twice, launching as many as 25 rounds on each target. Televised video showed
secondary explosions from the ground following the attack.

The aerial attack came one day after Marines in Fallujah repulsed a sustained
enemy attack. Marine Capt. Douglas A. Zembiec, commander for Company E, 2nd
Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, said his outnumbered Marines "fought like lions"
to fend off that attack.

The 1st Marine Expeditionary Force's unilateral cease-fire, declared April 9,
has produced less-than-hoped-for results, Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt
acknowledged, with three violations of the cease-fire within the past 24 hours
alone. Other cease-fire provisions, such as the turn-in of heavy weapons and
the removal of foreign fighters, also have gone unheeded.

"Insurgents continue to fail to produce the weapons, fail to produce the
fighters, fail to produce those who have been responsible for some of the
heinous acts inside Fallujah," said Kimmitt, deputy operations director for
Coalition Joint Task Force 7.

Marines in Fallujah suspended their offensive operations in the city for almost
17 days, Kimmitt told reporters in Baghdad earlier today. He said the Marines
"have sat there in their positions within a cordon, peacefully waiting until a
resolution has been established with the people of Fallujah to end this hostage
situation … by the foreign fighters and terrorists."

Kimmitt stressed that while the coalition seeks a peaceful resolution in
Fallujah, "We are prepared to use force and we have more than sufficient force
(to do that.)"

Fallujah has become a hotbed of anti-American sentiment in Iraq. "Some people
of Fallujah have been brainwashed to think this is a great act of resistance,"
Kimmitt said.

In fact, he said, it is the coalition that has chosen the political track, not
the insurgents. "It is the coalition that is seeking peace," he said. "It is
the foreign fighters and the belligerents inside Fallujah that continue to
conduct cease-fire violations on a daily basis."

Joint patrols of U.S. Marines and Iraqi security forces had been scheduled to
begin today, but were temporarily delayed until commanders on the ground
determine that the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps and Iraqi Police Service are
properly trained for the mission.

Elsewhere in Iraq, troops killed about 64 insurgents and destroyed an anti-
aircraft system east of the Euphrates River near Najaf, Kimmitt reported. The
violence began after an M-1 tank was hit by rocket-propelled grenades and a
patrol came under small-arms fire during separate attacks. No coalition forces
have conducted military operations immediately within Kufa or Najaf, he said.

Related Site:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
Negotiating in Fallujah 'Worth
a Try,' Leaders Say [/news/Apr2004/n04272004_200404274.html]
Coalition, Iraqi Forces to
Conduct Joint Patrols in Fallujah [/news/Apr2004/n04262004_200404263.html]

Seoulstriker

04-27-2004, 06:40 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Iraq Ambassador Nominee Meets Senate Committee
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 27, 2004 – The nominee for U.S. ambassador to Iraq today singled
out the challenge facing the United States in Iraq: Establish the conditions by
which the Iraqi people can pursue their interests and celebrate their differences
through legitimate political channels, rather than through violence and
retribution.

John D. Negroponte, nominated by President Bush on April 19, appeared before the
Senate Foreign Relations Committee for his confirmation hearing. He has been the
U.S. representative to the United Nations since September 2001.

The Coalition Provisional Authority will dissolve June 30 when sovereignty
transfers to the Iraqi people. CPA administrator Ambassador L. Paul Bremer III
will return to the United States, and an American Embassy will represent U.S.
interests in Iraq.

"The sober reality is that destructive and divisive forces are working to
undermine progress in Iraq," he said. "Coalition forces and Iraqi and
international civilians are targeted by disparate elements fanatically opposed to
a democratic Iraq. These elements are exploiting and seeking to deepen divisions
among Iraq's ethnic, religious and tribal communities, exacerbated by many years
of manipulation by Saddam's despotic regime, in order to destabilize Iraq."

Negroponte said Saddam Hussein's regime created the conditions that pose the
challenge ahead, and the path to follow is clear. "In short," he told the
committee, "we must support Iraqis as they build the institutions necessary to do
away with Saddam's criminal political system and the winner-take-all attitude that
has ruled Iraq for decades."

He said a prosperous, stable and democratic Iraq is central to U.S. interests and
to the success in the global campaign against terror. Ending Saddam's regime, he
said, was the first step.

"With the overthrow of Saddam Hussein we eliminated a major threat to
international peace and security," he said. "In the last two decades he invaded
his neighbors twice, used (weapons of mass destruction) against his neighbors and
his own people, undertook clandestine nuclear, chemical and biological weapons
programs, and massacred hundreds of thousands of Iraqi citizens."

Ensuring the new Iraq will be a constructive presence in the region, and that its
government will be at peace with its neighbors and with its own citizens, has been
the goal of the past year's efforts, Negroponte said. "When confronted with
complex and dangerous challenges as we push toward that strategic goal," he noted,
"we must recall that our extraordinary efforts in Iraq are not only for the Iraqi
people -- but also for our own."

The post-June 30 U.S. diplomatic mission in Iraq, Negroponte said, would work in
partnership with the Iraqi people and would "support democratization and rule of
law, promote economic development and support efforts to restore security and
eliminate terrorism."

Negroponte pledged full support of the U.S. diplomatic mission in Iraq for all
aspects of election preparation, calling that support "critical" if elections for
a transitional national assembly are to take place as scheduled by the end of
January 2005.

"In this regard," he said, "the expertise of the United Nations will be
particularly valuable. It is already helping the Iraqis and the Coalition
Provisional Authority establish an independent electoral commission, an electoral
law and a political parties law. If confirmed, I will work with the Iraqis to
facilitate the United Nations' active engagement as Iraq prepares voter rolls,
trains election workers, designates polling stations and distributes ballots."

Rebuilding Iraq, Negroponte said, also will be an important priority for the
diplomatic mission he would lead as ambassador. "The United States is providing
unprecedented funding and technical assistance to help Iraq achieve a level of
prosperity commensurate with its natural and human resources and proud history,"
he told the committee. "Working with the Iraqi authorities, who best know the
needs of their people, the mission will oversee the vast array of reconstruction
projects under way in Iraq. We will ensure that these projects, financed with
taxpayers' funds, serve our policy goals and the priority needs validated by the
Iraqis themselves, and we will hold these projects to the highest standards of
financial accountability."

With Iraqi security forces not yet fully developed, Negroponte said he realizes
that the training mission is currently a military one. "The key to achieving
lasting security in Iraq is building and strengthening the capacity of Iraq's
security services to deal with both domestic extremists and foreign terrorists,"
he said. "I can think of no more important task.

"We must do everything within our power to help the government and courageous
people of Iraq develop the capacity to defend themselves and maintain the kind of
peace and tranquility that will permit their nation to go about its legitimate
civilian pursuits," he continued. "While the theater commander will implement
these training responsibilities at this time, I can assure him of my full and
complete support."

A "robust" multinational military presence will be critical for security until
Iraqi security services are capable of handling that mission themselves,
Negroponte said. "I will work hard in my current capacity (as U.S. representative
to the United Nations) to obtain continued Security Council authorization for such
a force."

Negroponte praised U.N. special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi's work in helping Iraq form
an interim government, noting that he has worked with Brahimi for more than two
years on the post-conflict situation in Afghanistan. "I have a great deal of
respect for his ability to engage disparate, even warring, groups and move them
toward productive dialogue, consensus and the establishment of viable political
institutions," Negroponte said. "We will remain engaged with Ambassador Brahimi in
the critical weeks ahead."

An expanded U.N. role in the political arena would help to generate the
international support that the successful rehabilitation of Iraq requires, he
said. "Secretary-General (Kofi) Annan's and Ambassador Brahimi's contributions may
well open the door to creative thinking about ways in which the international
community, as well as the coalition, can further contribute to the process of
rehabilitating Iraq, both politically and economically." But Negroponte stressed
that more international involvement doesn't mean the United States will lose out.

"I want to be clear that a vital United Nations role does not come at the expense
of the United States' influence or interests," he said. "Our efforts can be well
coordinated and complementary. There is ample evidence across a broad range of
situations that a strong partnership with the international community, including
the United Nations organization, is in our strategic interest."

He noted that his role as U.S. ambassador to Iraq will differ from Bremer's role
as CPA administrator. "Whereas the CPA is the ultimate political authority in
Iraq, the embassy will be in a supportive, as opposed to a commanding role. Also,
the mission will be distinctly American, in contrast to the multinational
character of the CPA."

He pledged, however, to maintain close relationships with coalition partners,
multilateral organizations, and nongovernmental organizations operating in Iraq,
groups he said "are all vital to the advancement of our common interests."

The nominee praised the Bremer's work. "I have the greatest respect and admiration
for Ambassador Bremer's accomplishments in Iraq under the most difficult
circumstances," Negroponte said. "He is a personal friend as well as a colleague,
and I value highly his historic contribution to our efforts in Iraq."

Negroponte commended the Americans who have served in Iraq and the work they have
done. "The courage shown by all Americans working on the ground in Iraq, in
dangerous and uncertain conditions, to support the principles we and our coalition
partners share with Iraqis, is humbling," he said. "The men and women of our armed
forces, of our diplomatic service and from all walks of American life who have
come forward to serve our nation in Iraq have made great – and too often the
ultimate – sacrifices. We owe it to them to proceed with the utmost in
forethought, resolve and prudence as we enter the next phase."

Before taking his U.N. posting, Negroponte had spent four years as a senior
executive for The McGraw-Hill Companies after a 37-year career as a diplomat. He
served at eight different foreign service posts in Asia, Europe and Latin America,
and he also held important positions at the State Department and the White House.

Biographies:
Ambassador John D.
Negroponte [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/biog/4952.htm]
Ambassador L. Paul Bremer
III [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/bremerbio.html]
United Nations
Secretary-General Kofi Annan [http://www.un.org/News/ossg/sg/pages/sg_biography.html]
United Nations
Special Envoy Lakhdar Brahimi [http://www.un.org/News/dh/iraq/brahimi-bio-jan04.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Text
of John D. Negroponte's Statement to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, April
27, 2004 [http://foreign.senate.gov/testimony/2004/NegroponteTestimony040427.pdf]
Senate Foreign Relations Committee [http://foreign.senate.gov/]
Coalition Provisional Authority [http://www.cpa-iraq.org/]
United Nations [http://www.un.org/english/]

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 12:11 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 377-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 27, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

National Guard and Reserve Mobilized as of April 28, 2004

This week each of the Services report a decrease in the number of
reservists on active duty in support of the partial mobilization. The net
collective result is 1,430 fewer reservists on active duty than last week.

At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while
demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or
decrease. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial
mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 148,460; Naval Reserve
2,629; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 12,781; Marine Corps Reserve,
5,080; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 1,537. This brings the total National Guard
and Reserve on active duty to 170,487 including both units and individual
augmentees.

A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve who are currently on active
duty can be found at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Apr2004/d20040428ngr.pdf .

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 03:43 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Fallujah Cease-Fire Honored, But Coalition Responds to Attacks
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 28, 2004 -- Coalition forces continue to "rigidly adhere" to
the cease-fire that took effect in Fallujah, Iraq, April 9, despite graphic
televised images that coalition officials called "a series of defensive
responses" to attacks by insurgents within the city.

Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt, deputy operations officer for Combined Joint Task
Force 7, told reporters in Baghdad today the cordon around Fallujah "remains
tight" as coalition forces give negotiators a chance to work out a political
solution to the impasse in the city.

But the general stressed that while honoring the cease-fire from their
fortified battle positions, coalition troops will not allow themselves to
become sitting ducks. "When we get shot at, we will respond. We will not sit
there and take fire even though there is a cease-fire ongoing," Kimmitt said.
"That is inconsistent with what we stand for and inconsistent with the inherent
right of self-defense."

Kimmitt said coalition troops responded to "numerous violations" of the cease-
fire in and around Fallujah within the past 24 hours. A coalition patrol
returned fire late April 27, killing one insurgent, after a seven-person group
dressed in black engaged them with small-arms and rocket-propelled grenade
fire.

Televised images dramatically captured another response after enemy forces
attacked coalition defensive positions in Fallujah late April 27. Troops on the
ground called for close-air support, and coalition air assets fired on a
flatbed truck and sedan, setting off secondary explosions that Kimmitt said
lasted at least 20 minutes due to the large amount of ammunition the vehicles
carried. The insurgents fled to a nearby building, and when coalition aircraft
fired on it, large amounts of ordnance being stored inside set off big
secondary explosions, he said.

Kimmitt reported coalition was responding to two attacks today in Fallujah —
one on enemy forces who attacked coalition troops on a supply route City's
northeast side and another on insurgents who attacked coalition defense
positions on the northwest edge. In both cases, Kimmitt said coalition forces
called for and received air support.

Despite violations of the cease-fire and a disappointing number of weapons
turned in by the residents of Fallujah, Kimmitt said the coalition still holds
out hope that the ongoing negotiations have promise. "We are allowing the
political track to go forward. We will continue to let that political track go
forward as long as it shows promise," he said. "And when it no longer shows
promise, we will take alternative means."

Kimmitt said the coalition hopes for a peaceful resolution in Fallujah that can
be solved without putting U.S. Marine lives at risk. "But our patience is not
limitless," he stressed, adding that the coalition will use the military option
if necessary.

"Any belligerent who has in his or her mind that the reason the coalition
forces are stopped inside this cordon and not moving forward is because they
either fear the enemy or don't have the resources to complete the job would be
making a very, very deadly mistake," Kimmitt said.

Related Site:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Coalition Responds to Enemy
Attack in Fallujah [/news/Apr2004/n04272004_200404276.html]

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 03:43 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Coalition Condemns Prisoner Abuse
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 28, 2004 — Six soldiers to be tried for abusing detainees at
a Baghdad prison fall far short of representing their military comrades who are
serving honorably at the facility, a coalition spokesman told reporters in
Baghdad today.

"This does not reflect the vast majority of coalition soldiers, the vast
majority of American soldiers, who are operating at Abu Gharib prison," said
Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt, deputy operations officer for Combined Joint Task
Force 7. "Understand that a very, very small number were involved in this
incident and of the hundred and hundreds of guards that they have out there, a
small number were involved."

The six soldiers were charged with criminal offenses to include conspiracy,
dereliction of duty, cruelty and maltreatment, assault and indecent acts with
another for activities at the Abu Gharib prison, Kimmitt told reporters in
March.

"I am not going to stand here and make excuses for these soldiers. I am not
going to stand here and apologize for these soldiers," he said during today's
Baghdad press briefing. "If what they did is proven in a court of law, it is
incompatible with the values we stand for as a professional military force and
the values we stand for as human beings."

Army officials launched an investigation after a soldier assigned to the
facility stepped forward to report the mistreatment of prisoners by some guards
and interrogators at the facility, Kimmitt said.

Kimmitt said Army Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez, CJTF 7 commander, requested a
separate administrative investigation into "systemic issues" such as command
policies and internal procedures related to detention operations. Now that the
investigation is complete, Sanchez directed a follow-up investigation of
interrogation procedures at detention facilities. That investigation continues,
Kimmitt said.

The coalition takes all reports of detainee abuse seriously and investigates
all allegations of mistreatment," he said. "We are committed to treating all
persons under coalition custody with dignity and respect and humanity.
Coalition personnel are expected to act appropriately, humanely and in a manner
consistent with Geneva Conventions."

Biography:
Lt. Gen. Ricardo
Sanchez, USA [http://www.cjtf7.com/command-info/senior-leaders.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Military Accuses Six of
Abusing Detainees in Iraq [/news/Mar2004/n03202004_200403203.html]

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 05:32 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Resolution in Fallujah 'Will Resonate Throughout Iraq'
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 28, 2004 — The way the stalemate in Fallujah, Iraq, is
ultimately resolved — either through a negotiated agreement or through military
force — "will resonate throughout Iraq" and "deal a blow to all the insurgents
across the country," the operations chief for U.S. Central Command told
Pentagon reporters today.

Marine Maj. Gen. John Sattler said the outcome will dash the hopes of other
insurgents who were "hanging on, thinking that they can hold out long enough or
they can hold out until they can negotiate on their terms." Actions in
Fallujah, he said, will send message, loud and clear, that those hopes are
nothing but a "pipe dream," he said via video teleconference from U.S. Central
Command's forward headquarters in Qatar.

If the situation erupts into fighting, Sattler said the insurgents will get a
quick, firsthand lesson in the capabilities of the U.S. military. "If they take
us on in direct confrontation, the end result is always that they take a severe
beating," he said.

Sattler said the insurgents in Fallujah — a mix of about 1,500 former Baathists
and Republic Guard members, foreign fighters, terrorists from outside the
country and "criminals and thugs" who gained power under Saddam Hussein through
intimidation and coercion — appear to have no central leader.

What they share, he said, is a common belief that they have no future in the
new Iraq, and that their only hope is to derail the progress under way
throughout the country.

The best solution for Fallujah is a peaceful negotiation, Sattler said,
stressing that the terms of the agreement must be met. "The arms must be turned
in. The weapons must be laid down. Those who are the criminals must be either
turned over or surrender themselves to proper authorities," he said.

"The intent is to drive out the extremist elements within the town and then to
return order and stability to the town so the Fallujan people can get on with
their lives and move toward a fair and representative Iraqi government," he
said. "We'll get back the town, reinstate the rule of law and move on."

But if the situation erupts into fighting, Sattler said the coalition will take
every step possible to limit civilian casualties and collateral damage. But he
pointed out that insurgents in Fallujah continuing to seek safe haven inside
mosques, schools and hospitals that the coalition is reluctant to attack would
complicate matters.

Precision attacks, if necessary, will involve close coordination between the
commander on the ground, forward combat controllers and aircraft crews, and
accurate targeting made possible by laser-guided munitions and Joint Direct
Attack Munitions. "It's very calculated," Sattler said.

Meanwhile, Sattler said the coalition is maintaining its cordon around Fallujah
and conducting patrols in nearby towns to seek out those who have fled Fallujah
to rearm, refit or possibly plan anti-coalition activities. "The goal is to
keep them disrupted and off balance," he said.

Biography:
Maj. Gen. John Sattler [http://www.usmc.mil/genbios2.nsf/0/E77F2EC0FF1C0FCD8525680900479F1F?opend
ocument]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
Joint Direct
Attack Munitions [http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?fsID=108]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Fallujah Cease-Fire Honored,
But Coalition Responds to Attacks [/news/Apr2004/n04282004_200404281.html]

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 06:32 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 380-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 28, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Genreal Officer Announcements

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld announced today that the President has made
the following nominations:

Navy Capt. Raymond E. Berube has been nominated for appointment to the rank of rear
admiral (lower half). Berube is currently serving as assistant commander for
business operations, Navy Personnel Command, Millington, Tenn.

Navy Capt. Christine M. Bruzek-Kohler has been nominated for appointment to the rank
of rear admiral (lower half). Bruzek-Kohler is currently serving as deputy
assistant chief for medical operations support, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery,
Washington, D.C.

Navy Capt. Christine S. Hunter has been nominated for appointment to the rank of
rear admiral (lower half). Hunter is currently serving as fleet surgeon, U.S.
Pacific Fleet, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Navy Capt. John J. Prendergast III has been nominated for appointment to the rank of
rear admiral (lower half). Prendergast is currently serving as deputy commander for
fleet logistics operations, Naval Supply Systems Command, Mechanicsburg, Pa.

Navy Capt. Wayne G. Shear has been nominated for appointment to the rank of rear
admiral (lower half). Shear is currently serving as deputy commander, Naval
Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, D.C.

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 06:51 PM

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 379-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 28, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Wednesday, April 28, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Wednesday, April 28, 2004

-MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY-

The Boeing Company of Huntsville, Alabama is being issued a sole source
modification to HQ0006-0209-0001 increasing the agreement value by $157,366,185 to
perform system engineering and integration work for the Ballistic Missile Defense
System (BMDS). The resulting engineering and integration products and support will
be central to the definition, design, and test of the evolutionary, integrated
BMDS. The period of performance for this work is April 1, 2004 through December
31, 2005. Funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The
contracting activity is the Missile Defense Agency, 7100 Defense Pentagon,
Washington, DC 20301-7100. The work under this modification will be funded using
Fiscal Year 04, 05 and 06 RDT&E funds (HQ0006-02-9-0001).

Computer Sciences Corporation, Arlington, Virginia, is being awarded a
cost-plus-fixed-fee contract, HQ0006-04-C-0002, to provide scientific engineering
and technical assistance to the Ballistic Missile Defense System Program director
BM/C2 (MDA/BC) and the deputy for system integration and engineering. The contract
has a 15-month period of performance with a contract value not to exceed
$24,663,330. The Missile Defense Agency is the contracting activity
(HQ0006-04-C-0002).

-ARMY-

The Walsh Group dba. Walsh Corp., Chicago, Ill., was awarded on April 27, 2004, a
$66,373,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of an air freight
terminal. Work will be performed at Dover Air Force Base, Del., and is expected to
be completed by April 30, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. There were 48 bids solicited on Jan. 9, 2004, and 13 bids
were received. The U.S. Army Engineer District, Philadelphia, Pa., is the
contracting activity (W912BU-04-C-0014).

Taos Industries Inc.*, Madison, Ala., was awarded on April 27, 2004, a delivery
order amount of $20,231,291 as part of a $34,432,072 firm-fixed-price contract for
weapons, ammunition, and weapons-related products for Iraq. Work will be performed
in Iraq, and is expected to be completed by April 25, 2005. Contract funds will
not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of
bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Feb. 23, 2004, and nine bids were
received. The Coalition Provisional Authority, Baghdad, Iraq, is the contracting
activity (W914NS-04-D-0115).

Watterson Construction Co., Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on April 23, 2004, a
$13,388,328 firm-fixed-price contract for design and construction of a FY04
dormitory. Work will be performed at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, and is
expected to be completed by July 15, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the
end of the current fiscal year. There were 26 bids solicited on Dec. 9, 2003, and
3 bids were received. The U.S. Army Engineer District, Elmendorf, Alaska, is the
contracting activity (W911KB-04-C-0015).

Radian Inc., Alexandria, Va., was awarded on April 26, 2004, a $10,572,079
modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for crew protection kits for the Medium
Tactical Vehicle. Work will be performed in Alexandria, Va., and is expected to be
completed by March 7, 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on March 5, 2004.
The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Mich., is the
contracting activity (W56HZV-04-C-0321).

Kiesler Police Supply Inc., Jeffersonville, Ind., was awarded on April 27, 2004, a
delivery order amount of $5,726,124 as part of a $36,069,429 firm-fixed-price
contract for weapons, ammunition, and weapons-related products for Iraq. Work will
be performed in Iraq, and is expected to be completed by April 25, 2005. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown
number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Feb. 23, 2004, and nine bids
were received. The Coalition Provisional Authority, Baghdad, Iraq, is the
contracting activity (W914NS-04-D-0116).

-AIR FORCE-

Boeing Co., Wichita, Kan., is being awarded a $58,799,552 cost-plus award-fee
contract modification to provide for Engineering Change Proposal 0303 - Special
Operations Forces acceleration, for the delivery of two avionics modernized Talon
aircraft no later than CY 2008. This effort supports C-130 Aircraft. Location of
performance is The Boeing Co., Long Beach, Calif. At this time, $14,405,099 of the
funds has been obligated. This work will be complete by December 2009.
Negotiations were completed March 2004. The Air Force Materiel Command,
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity
(F33657-01-C-0047, P00050).

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Rolling Meadows, Ill., is being awarded a
$21,023,149 firm fixed price contract modification to provide for LITENING pod
upgrade kits and spares for use by the Air Force Reserve Corps and the Air National
Guard. Locations of performance are Northrop Grumman, Rolling Meadows, Ill. (55%)
and Rafael Missile Division, Haifa, Israel (45%). Total funds have been
obligated. The Headquarters Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright-Patterson Air
Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (F33657-98-C-2020, P00053).

-NAVY-

BAE Systems Technologies, Inc., Rockville, Md., is being awarded a $22,318,876
estimated value modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee contract
(N00421-03-C-0035) to provide engineering and technical support services for the
Naval Air Systems Command Aircraft Control and Landing Systems Division. Work will
be performed at the Naval Air Systems Command Aircraft Division, St. Inigoes, Md.
(60 percent); and California, Md. (40 percent), and is expected to be completed in
April 2005. Contract funds in the amount of $606,142 will expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command Aircraft Division, St. Inigoes,
Md., is the contracting activity.

Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio, is being awarded a $15,000,000
modification to previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee,
indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity task order contract (N47408-01-D-8207) to
exercise an option for performing environmental engineering services. The work to
be performed provides engineering services required for the implantation of
innovative environmental technologies for Navy and Marine Corps contaminated sites
under cognizance of the Naval Facilities Engineering Command. This modification
increases the value of the basic contract by $15,000,000 making the current value
$60,000,000_._ The total contract amount is not to exceed $75,000,000 over the
five-year contract term, which includes the base period and four option years. The
work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps installations world wide,
the sites will consist of those ranked on the Superfund National Priority List
(NPL) as well as non-NPL sites, Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, underground
storage tanks and other sites, which might require remedial action. Term of
contract is not to exceed five years with an expected completion date of April
2006--April 2005 is the expected completion date for the third option period.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic
contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation website with two
proposals received and award made on April 30, 2001. The Naval Facilities
Engineering Command Contracts Office, Port Hueneme, Calif., is the contracting
activity.

Computer Sciences Corp., Defense Group, San Diego, Calif. is being awarded a
$5,452,464 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with
cost-plus-fixed-fee pricing for engineering services to support information systems
and network technology programs. This contract is one of three contracts awarded.
All three awardees will compete for task orders during the ordering period. This
one-year contract includes four one-year options, which, if exercised, would bring
the potential cumulative value of this contract to $28,062,437. Work will be
performed at the contractor's facility in San Diego, Calif. (50 percent) and at
government facilities in the U.S. and abroad (50 percent) and is expected to be
completed in April 2005. Contract funds in the amount of $181,749 will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via
the Federal Business Opportunity website (under solicitation N66001-03-R-5021) and
the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central web site, with four offers received. The Space and
Naval Warfare Systems Center San Diego, Calif. is the contracting activity
(N66001-04-D-5031).

Professional Software Engineering, Inc., Virginia Beach, Va. is being awarded a
$5,240,484 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with
cost-plus-fixed-fee pricing for engineering services to support information systems
and network technology programs. This contract is one of three contracts awarded.
All three awardees will compete for task orders during the ordering period. This
one-year contract includes four one-year options, which, if exercised, would bring
the potential cumulative value of this contract to $26,925,978. Work will be
performed at the contractor's facility in San Diego, Calif. (50 percent) and at
government facilities in the U.S. and abroad (50 percent), and is expected to be
completed in April 2005. Contract funds in the amount of $181,749 will not expire
at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via
the Federal Business Opportunity website (under solicitation N66001-03-R-5021) and
the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central web site, with four offers received. The Space and
Naval Warfare Systems Center San Diego, Calif. is the contracting activity
(N66001-04-D-5032).

* Small Business

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 08:21 PM

NEWS TRANSCRIPT from the United States Department of Defense

DoD News Briefing
Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul Wolfowitz
Wednesday, April 28, 2004

(Also participating Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy
Thompson; Department of Homeland Defense Secretary Tom Ridge.)

Thompson: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. It's a real honor for
me today to have two outstanding members of the administration here to give public
testimonials about what we have done but, more importantly, what we're going to
continue to do for America, to protect America. It is really a distinct honor to
have Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge who has been a friend of mine for a
long time and I'm just delighted at the job he's doing and the fact that he's here,
along with outstanding Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz.

And we also have just a huge amount of distinguished scientists and other people
representing several departments: EPA, the Department of Homeland Security,
Department of Defense and my own Department of Health and Human Services.

But we're here today to discuss an issue of the highest importance and that, of
course, is protecting our great country from the threats of bioterrorism. As you
all know, our highest priority is to safeguard the American people. This is a
responsibility that President Bush takes extremely seriously and he wants us to make
sure that we are prepared and he has delegated that responsibility to us. And I
know this is a responsibility that each of us up on the stage as well as those in
the room take very seriously, as well.

And one of the fundamental requirements of a good plan of action for biodefense
preparedness is that we in the federal government start coordinating closer with one
another and we've done a good job so far, but you haven't seen anything yet. And we
have a good plan in place to be able to develop that cooperation and collaboration
even more in the future.

Our government is working together in critical ways. What you see before you today
is a great example of that collaboration that goes on among the departments every
single day. So with that said, I'm pleased to introduce now Secretary Tom Ridge, my
friend and colleague. Secretary Ridge is committed to protecting our nation and
he's going to give us an overview of our biopreparedness plans and he's doing, I
believe, just a tremendous job.

Mr. Secretary, thank you very much for being here.

Ridge: Thank you. Thank you, Tommy. I thank the governor, Paul, for joining me
this morning. Ladies and gentlemen, it's a privilege to be here with my colleagues
in public service in support of this initiative and to announce the initiatives
spearheaded by the president to strengthen our nation's defenses against a
bioterrorism attack. The potential catastrophic consequences that the use of a
biological weapon could have on our country obviously makes it a critical vital area
of homeland security efforts, as well as homeland security concerns. And that is
why in the immediate aftermath of September 11th and every day since, we have taken
a very aggressive approach to build defenses against a biological threat, while we
work to prevent one from ever occurring.

With today's announcement, the president has put forward a new initiative that will
fully integrate our current bioterrorism efforts across the public health, medical,
law enforcement, intelligence and homeland security community. At the president's
direction, we have done an end-to-end review of all our bioterrorism efforts so that
we can prioritize both our needs as well as our investments in this critical area.

Under the president's new national biodefense directive, all of our bioterrorism
projects and programs will fall under a coordinated and focused strategic plan that
will help maximize our resources, ensure a common unified effort across all federal
agencies and address any deficiency that we discover. Not only does the president's
new biodefense directive provide a focus for the present that's very important
obviously, but also provides guidance and direction for the future. Individual
agencies are given very specific responsibilities and accordingly, will be held
accountable to meet those goals.

From the creation of a biological attack warning system to an improved distribution
system of critical antibiotics and vaccines, this plan charts a course toward our
goal of a strong and robust bioterrorism defense. The Department of Homeland
Security plays a critical role in the success of the nation's biodefense
capabilities, particularly in the areas of detection and surveillance.

One of our most important detection tools is the innovative BioWatch Program, which
deploys environment sensors in our major urban areas to sample the air for
biological agents. It is a testament to how serious we have taken this threat, but
this system was actually up and running in more than 30 of our nation's cities well
before the official formation of the Department of Homeland Security.

The president's budget this year contains $118 million to support and expand the
program, including the development of improved environmental monitors. At Homeland
Security, we have also established a new national BioDefense Analysis and
Countermeasure Center to study biological agents and provide a state-of-the art
forensics capability to track down the source of any release that might occur.

Now of course, the bioterrorism threat is too great for any single government entity
to address, whether it's Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, EPA, the
Department of Defense, Department of Agriculture or the other various agencies. We
all bring very important resources and expertise to the table integral to meeting
the threat. And we're all working diligently together, not just to meet the threat,
but to defeat the threat as well.

Earlier this year, Secretary Thompson and I worked together announcing just such a
partnership, when we put forward the president's BioSurveillance Program – a $274
million initiative designed to bring together data collected by DHS, HHS,
Agriculture and other agencies to more effectively protect the safety of our food
supply as well as the health of our citizens. These and other government-wide
measures, such as stockpiling of antibiotics, obtaining enough smallpox vaccine for
all citizens, and providing more than $4.5 billion to improve the ability of our
public health system to respond to a crisis. We're greatly building our capacity to
prevent and respond to a bioterrorism attack. Now the president's new biodefense
directive will help this administration and these individual agencies go even
further.

Under this initiative in the coming months, Homeland Security will oversee the
creation of an early warning and detection system. This system will protect
high-density populations from biological weapons attacks. Homeland Security will
establish a national biosurveillance group, a federal interagency group led by DHS
to integrate all relevant threat information. The information will then be given to
the decisionmakers who need it to protect their communities who will develop a
comprehensive plan that provides for a seamless, coordinated response across
federal, state and local levels and we will work with HHS, the Department of
Agriculture, the Department of Defense and other agencies to pursue research and
procurement of necessary biological, medical countermeasures.

Addressing bioterrorism is a top priority of this administration. And as President
Bush has made so very clear, we must be unwavering in our dedication to both
confronting and overcoming the threat. Our fellow citizens expect and certainly
deserve no less. By working together, as Secretary Thompson mentioned, and
integrating our capacities and efforts, we can make it more and more difficult for
the terrorists to use these weapons against us. And with determination and
sustained commitment, we can make our nation both safer and stronger than ever
before.

Thank you very much. Tommy.

Thompson: Thank you. Thank you, Tom. Thank you, Mr. Secretary. I'm honored to
work with you in this very important endeavor and I'm proud to talk about my
department's important role in defending America. It is important to know how much
this department has accomplished over the past few years in contributing to our
homeland security. The contrast between what we are doing a few years ago and what
we're doing today is absolutely striking. HHS spends 12 times as much in bioterror
preparedness as we did three years ago. And when you look at our shared
responsibility with DHS, the increase is even more.

HHS funding has gone from $305 million in 2001 to $3.9 billion in 2004. And we have
requested $4.1 billion for next year. On bioterrorism-related research alone, we've
gone from spending $53 million in 2001 to $1.6 billion in 2004. That's more than 30
times as much for bioterrorism research. HHS has almost 10 times as many staff
members working on bioterrorism readiness as we did in 2001. In order to protect
the safety and security of America's food supplies we've increased the food imports
inspections from 12,000 in 2001 to 60,000 in 2004 and we'll do over 100,000 in this
fiscal year. And we went from only a few states and regions having coordinated a
public health and hospital plans in 2001 to having every single state complete joint
planning this year.

We've dramatically improved our capacity to respond to a threat of smallpox. In
2001, we had only 15 million doses of the smallpox vaccine available. D.A.
Henderson who's with us today was the father of the eradication of smallpox said we
didn't even have the VIG available to send out the smallpox, even the small amount
we had.

Today we have more than enough doses of vaccine to be able to vaccinate every men,
women and child in America, if necessary. Research is also underway towards a very
improved anthrax vaccine and we expect it to be available beginning in the middle of
2005. To build on these successes, the president proposed a Project BioShield
initiative to create a more secure source of funding, to be able to purchase new
vaccines or treatments. $5.6 billion has already been appropriated for BioShield
over the next 10 years. Because of all of these dramatic steps, I am happy to be
able to report that we are better prepared to prevent and respond to any public
health emergency. But there's always more that we can do and should do. And as
Secretary Ridge said: This strategic plan identifies specific areas where we can do
more to protect America. HHS will take the lead on several different elements of
the plan.

First, we will plan to be able to anticipate future threats. We know that
terrorists want to do everything they can to harm America and they could be creative
in their use of new or different biological agents. We're working to stay a step
ahead of those who would harm us. We're using biotechnology, medical research and
other methods to evaluate new toxins and agents that require new detection methods,
preventive measures and treatments.

Second, HHS will coordinate the development of medical countermeasures. This, of
course, ties in closely with our goal of anticipating future threats. We are
working to develop safe, effective medical countermeasures against biological
weapons agents and we're taking into consideration the possibility of new or
genetically engineered agents. We're working to be ready for a wide variety of
toxins from across the biological spectrum. This is no small task for the great
scientific minds at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National
Institutes of Health, and the Food and Drug Administration, among other HHS
agencies, are up to the challenge.

Lastly, we will continue to lead the effort to prepare for mass casualty care. Our
public health system has to be prepared in order to deal with widespread illness and
casualties in the event of a biological attack or a naturally occurring outbreak of
disease. Thankfully, our public health infrastructure today is better than ever.
From county health departments to CDC in Atlanta to the 24-hour command center next
to my office that some of you toured this morning. Thanks to our improved
infrastructure, we're better able to identify and track outbreaks quickly, putting
our resources in quick contact with those who will need them. We know that
hospitals, state health departments and other front-line agencies cannot possibly be
fully prepared for any disaster. So we have established strategic national
stockpiles of pharmaceutical and medical supplies as part of our nation, our
nationwide preparedness training and education program for state and local health
care providers, first responders and governments.

These stockpiles include large quantities of antibiotics, chemical antidotes,
antitoxins, life-support medications, IV administration, airway maintenance supplies
and many other surgical items. And we've organized them for a flexible response.

We have put together many supplies designed to be delivered rapidly when threats may
still be ill-defined. We call these Push Packages and their station is
strategically located secured warehouses ready for immediate deployment. These
supplies can be delivered to anywhere in the United States or U.S. territories
within under 10 hours. We can follow-up on the Push Packages with additional
supplies tailored to that event within 24 hours. But again, we can do more and
we're working to strengthen and refine that process.

Specifically, we're working to create a national surge capacity so that hospitals
and federal, state, local and private agencies can provide rapidly expandable mass
casualty care. So let me reiterate – the stakes here could not be any higher, but
we are committed. We are resolved and we're ready to do our part with Homeland
Security to help prepare and protect our country.

Now it's my privilege to introduce our Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul Wolfowitz.
Secretary Wolfowitz will talk about the efforts that he is helping to coordinate at
the Department of Defense. And it really is an honor, Paul, to have you in this
department and I thank you very much for coming over here and being involved in this
press conference.

Wolfowitz: Thanks, Tom. Thank you, Tom. It really is an honor to be able to join
with these two very dedicated cabinet secretaries in announcing an extremely
important initiative for our country's defense. I'm accompanied this morning by two
of our most expert officials in the Department of Defense, Dr. William Winkenwerder
who is the assistant Secretary for Health Affairs and Dr. Dale Klein who's assistant
to the secretary for Nuclear, Chemical and Biological Defense Programs and they'll
be available afterwards to answer more detailed questions, if you have them.

In our view, the initiative being announced today is a critical next step in
ensuring the safety and security of the American people. So much is now being done
to meet the threat of biological warfare in various parts of the government that it
is critical now to have a mechanism that can better integrate information, that can
better coordinate our different efforts and that can guide us in using resources and
tax dollars as effectively as possible.

Biodefense has been a top priority of the Bush administration from the very first.
I can recall during the summer of 2001 when we conducted the Quadrennial Defense
Review. At the direction of Secretary Rumsfeld at the time it was decided that for
the first time ever homeland defense needed to be an explicit mission of the
Department of Defense. And indeed, it was made our number-one priority. That was
even before the terrible events of September 11th. Those attacks and the anthrax
attacks that followed shortly afterwards brought home dramatically the magnitude and
urgency of the terrorist threat to America.

Let me echo what my colleagues have said already in their statements – the American
people must appreciate the magnitude of the danger that we face from possible
biological terrorism. The threat is real. It is deadly serious. As horrible as it
was to have thousands of innocent Americans killed on our own territory on that
tragic day, that is nothing compared to what terrorists could do with the biological
weapons that we know they have been actively seeking. In many ways, biological
weapons may be ideally suited for the methods and purposes of terrorists. A mass
attack with anthrax or some other biological agents could bring about civilian
casualties and catastrophic damage to our economy. On a scale far beyond even that
which we experienced on September 11th, as devastating as that was.

Our response to this threat must be commensurate with the danger that we face. You
have heard the substantial efforts that Homeland Security and Health and Human
Services are doing to meet that threat. Let me say a few words of what we are doing
in the Department of Defense.

Actually, going back more than a century to the pioneering work of Walter Reed and
infectious diseases, the U.S. military has been in the forefront of some of the most
important medical research in this country. Even today, Navy medical researchers
are leading the effort to find a vaccine against malaria. But perhaps most
important for our efforts today, nearly a quarter century ago, we created the U.S.
Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases or since we always named
acronyms in the Pentagon, "USAMRIID," as we call it.

And for decades, that institution has been in the forefront of researching,
developing and fielding medical and non-medical defenses against biological
weapons. I must say at the time it was created, I think there were hopes that a
quarter century later, we might not need that kind of defense any longer. In fact,
we need it even more today than when USAMRIID was founded and we are grateful for
the pioneering work that the scientists at USAMRIID have been conducting.

DoD has been the primary biodefense-focused organization in the government and
heavily invested in facilities and science to support our military against these
terrible threats. We have identified vaccine candidates for such deadly viruses as
anthrax, smallpox and Ebola -- all capable of killing millions of our people. This
lead DoD laboratory is now expanding is research base and partnering with the
departments of Health and Human Services and Homeland Security to help us respond to
this potentially catastrophic threat. This will be realized by the establishment of
the National BioDefense Campus, currently under construction at Fort Detrick,
Maryland.

The Defense Department is actively pursuing new and emerging technologies in
protection, detection, decontamination and medical countermeasure development
against current and emerging threats. And we are devoting over $800 million
annually to those efforts. The Defense Department has equipped 44 civil support
teams [authorized 44, equipped 32 to date], made up of national guardsmen, capable
of responding to chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear incidents and we are
preparing to field up to 55 additional civil support teams to cover all 50 states
and territories.

The purpose of those teams is to provide detection, medical and consequence
management capabilities. The Defense Department has also established the
Installation Protection Program – an ongoing $1.1 billion effort to provide
chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear detection and defense capabilities
for 200 Department of Defense installations in the United States and overseas.
These installations will also collaborate through the Department of Homeland
Security and its BioWatch Program with local authorities to support national defense
at the state and local level.

We are actively participating in federal planning efforts to respond to a possible
catastrophic event that would result in mass casualties. This effort involves
obviously not only the Defense Department, but brings to bear the capabilities of
the entire federal government, as well as state and local authorities.

The Defense Department has already vaccinated over 700,000 of our personnel. This
assures continuing effectiveness in the event of an attack. And we are
collaborating with Health and Human Services as that department implements the
pending BioShield legislation which -- as Secretary Thompson mentioned -- will
provide approximately $5.6 billion to accelerate medical countermeasures for
biodefense.

In addition, $1.6 billion is also available for biodefense research through the
National Institutes of Health. Our department is actively collaborating with HHS
and NIH to identify areas of common development, leveraging our complementary
experiences and strengths. An interagency working group, the Weapons of Mass
Destruction Medical Countermeasures Subcommittee, has prioritized and identified
candidates for the initial round of Project BioShield funding. This group is
co-chaired by the assistant secretary of defense for Health Affairs and his
counterparts in the Departments of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services.
That group will help leverage the valuable and growing capabilities of all three
departments.

And finally, in the international arena, we are establishing multiple collaborative
programs with our allies particularly through NATO. These efforts seek to increase
international collaboration and science and technology exchanges that will benefit
all of us in the defense against this potential global threat. And that brings me
back to today's news.

In fact, if I might add as an aside, we've had very important experience in the
Defense Department, going back to landmark legislation in 1987, called the
Goldwater-Nichols Act, which has given us now more than 15 years of experience in
bringing together our different services with their different specializations and
different traditions to function more effectively as a single organization. The
benefits of specialization are enormous, but the benefits of collaboration are
equally so. And the president's new initiative will facilitate this kind of
collaboration across cabinet departments and provide a comprehensive framework for
biodefense activity across the government. Ultimately, that means that the American
people will be more secure and that's the bottom line. Thank you very much.

Thompson: Thank you very much, Paul. What we're going to do is we're going to
have just a few questions of the three principals up here. You can direct your
question to any one of us. Then there's going to be a lot of the experts from the
three departments: Department of Defense; Homeland Security and HHS. They're going
to stay afterwards and answer any of your technical questions, as it relates to the
executive order signed by the president. So with that, we'll take three questions
from the press at this particular point in time.

Yes?

Q: Mr. Secretary, some Democrats on the Homeland Security Committee have said that
it's taken the administration too long to get to this point. Would you comment on
that? Why now? Why did it – if you agree or disagree with that criticism and why
did it take this long?

Thompson: Well, I think any one of us can answer that. But let's just be honest –
there wasn't hardly anything done before the Bush administration got here. You just
take a look at all of the things that each one of our department's done. Secretary
Ridge's department wasn't even in existence. And Secretary Ridge has taken an idea
and has developed a homeland security into a department. Democrats were nowhere to
be when the last eight years, as far as setting up a Department of Homeland
Security.

In regard to this department, we didn't even have – we had 15 million doses of
smallpox and they were not packages so they could be sent out. There was no VIG
available, so it would be impossible to send the smallpox out. There was hardly
anything done in regard to that. I'm not being critical because there's different –
it's a different time right now. We've gone from 15 million to over 400 million
doses of smallpox. We're going to have an anthrax out by the middle of next year.
Department of Defense – all you have to do is just turn on the television every
single day and see what the Department of Defense is doing across the world. So to
have anybody say that we haven't done much in the last three years is absolutely
absurd.

Unknown: I agree.

[Laughter.]

Thompson: Any other – well, seeing no other questions, the experts are going to
stay behind and we'll leave.

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 08:21 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 383-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 28, 2004
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death a Marine who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Lance Cpl. Aaron C. Austin, 21, of Sunray, Texas, died April 26 due to
hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 1st
Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, at Camp
Pendleton, Calif.

For further information related to this release, contact Marine Corps Base
Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 09:01 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 382-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 28, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Staff Sgt. Abraham D. Penamedina, 32, of Los Angeles, Calif., died 27 April in
Baghdad, Iraq, when his patrol came under sniper fire. Penamedina was assigned to
Company B, 20th Engineer Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 09:35 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 381-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 28, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Kenneth A. Melton, 30, of Westplains, Mo., died April 25 in Iraq
when his military vehicle was hit an improvised explosive device and small arms fire
while traveling in a convoy from Baghdad. Melton was assigned to the Arkansas Army
National Guard, Company B, 3rd Battalion, 153rd Infantry Regiment, 39th Brigade
Combat Team, Fordyce, Ark.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-28-2004, 09:35 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Fisher House Opens 3rd Home at Walter Reed Hospital
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 28, 2004 – There is no better example for the need for Fisher
Houses than Hilario Bermanez.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404284d.jpg] available.
</font></table>

The young soldier was hit by small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades in
Iraq. He lost both legs and his left arm, and he suffered various other wounds.

Bermanez is from the State of Pohnpei – a part of the Federated States of
Micronesia. When he was wounded, the military notified his family. His father
and mother flew to his side, first in Germany and then here at Walter Reed Army
Medical Center.

His parents have stayed at the Fisher House on the grounds of Walter Reed for
almost a year as they help him get better. They could not have stayed by their
son's side without the Fisher House facility.

The Fisher House provides a place for many families as they visit with
soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen and Coast Guardsmen receiving treatment at
military medical facilities. The Fisher House Foundation, founded 13 years ago
by Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher, takes into account the special circumstance of
military life. Often service members must travel hundreds or thousands of miles
for medical care. These houses are homes for the families as their loved one
undergoes treatment.

There are now 32 Fisher Houses in the United States and Germany. The foundation
is dedicated "to our greatest national treasure … our military service men and
women and their loved ones."

With that need in mind, Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers
helped open Walter Reed's third Fisher House today. "To me, being here
signifies a couple of things," the chairman said during the dedication
ceremony. "First, the generous nature of our citizens. Another is a testimony
for those who are willing to sacrifice their all for our defense and our
freedom."

Myers thanked the Avon Foundation for its generous gift that built the house.
More than 600,000 Avon sales representatives sold Yellow Ribbon pins with all
profits going to the Yellow Ribbon Fund. The fund raised more than $3 million
of which $500,000 went to build the Fisher House. "Those who support the Fisher
House with their donations of time and money are really making a difference in
the lives or our service men and women and their families," Myers said.

"This generosity is inspiring and it is extremely important given that we're
facing a threat. … This threat of fear is the most important threat facing our
nation, perhaps ever," Myers said. "One of the ways you defeat this is you show
resolve. These houses show our resolve as the American people – our resolve to
take care of those who are willing to go forth and sacrifice.

"Terrorists want to replace that resolve with their terror and their fear," he
continued. "But you're not going to let them do that. This has huge meaning in
terms of what this country thinks is important."

The Fisher House is more than just a hotel. Kenneth Fisher, the foundation's
chairman of the board of trustees, said it is a place where people can come to
share with other people in need. Fisher House 3 already has family members
living there. And they watch out for each other.

The families baby-sit for each other and share triumph and tragedy together.
The houses are "homes" where families can go for respite, said one woman from
California visiting her son.

The houses fill a large need for families visiting service members. For
example, at Walter Reed – the Army's pre-eminent medical care facility – there
are currently 260 individuals receiving outpatient care and 70 receiving
inpatient care due to wounds or accidents suffered while serving in operations
Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. This is in addition to service members
suffering from other life-threatening illnesses, training accidents or vehicle
accidents.

Biography:
Gen. Richard B. Myers [/bios/myers_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
Fisher House [http://www.fisherhouse.org]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

200404284c.jpg Mary Jo Myers, wife of Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Richard Myers,
shakes hands with an airman at the Fisher House 3 opening at Walter Reed Army
Medical Center in Washington April 28. Photo by Mamie Mae Burke

200404284c_hr.jpg High resolution photo

200404284b.jpg Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers and former
Army Pfc. Jessica Lynch pose in front of the newly opened Fisher House at
Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington April 28. Photo by Mamie Mae
Burke

200404284b_hr.jpg High resolution photo

200404284a.jpg Mary Jo Myers, former Army Pfc. Jessica Lynch and Kenneth
Fisher, board chairman for the Fisher House Foundation, pose at the doorway for
the new Fisher House at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington April 28.
Lynch's family stayed at Fisher House 2 at the facility when Jessica was being
treated at the hospital in 2003. Photo by Mamie Mae Burke

200404284a_hr.jpg High resolution photo

200404284e.jpg Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers speaks
during the opening ceremonies for Fisher House 3 at Walter Reed Army Medical
Center in Washington April 28. Photo by Mamie Mae Burke

200404284e_hr.jpg High resolution photo

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 09:49 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Government Leaders Detail Biodefense Plan, Initiatives
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2004 -- The government's new plan to counter a
bioterrorism attack on the United States was announced at an April 28 news
conference here.

The announcement came as part of President Bush's directive to integrate anti-
bioterrorism efforts across all government agencies.

"We've done a good job so far, but you haven't seen anything yet," said Health
and Human Services Secretary Tommy G. Thompson, after he gave reporters a tour
of the department's new mobile command center.

Thompson, who was joined by Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge and Deputy
Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz, told reporters the "highest priority" of the
government is to safeguard the American people.

The three leaders met earlier with other agency heads to discuss biodefense for
the 21st century at the Health and Human Services building here.

"One of the fundamental requirements of a good plan of action for biodefense
preparedness is that we in the federal government start coordinating closer
with one another," Thompson said. "This is a responsibility that President Bush
takes extremely seriously, and he wants us to make sure that we are prepared,
and he has delegated that responsibility to us."

On the health front, Thompson said his department now spends 12 times as much
on bioterror preparedness as it did three years ago. "And when you look at our
shared responsibility with DHS, the increase is even more," he said.

Between 2001 and 2004, HHS funding has gone from $305 million to $3.9 billion,
he said. "And we have requested $4.1 billion for next year," he added. "On
bioterrorism related research alone, we've gone from spending $53 million in
2001 to $1.6 billion in 2004. That's more than 30 times as much for
bioterrorism research."

Thompson noted that HHS has almost 10 times as many staff members working on
bioterrorism readiness as it did in 2001. The department has increased food-
imports inspections from 12,000 in 2001 to 60,000 in 2004, "and will do over
100,000 in this fiscal year," he added.

The HHS secretary said his department has dramatically improved its ability to
respond to the threat of smallpox. In 2001, the department had only 15 million
doses of smallpox vaccine available. Today, he said, there is enough vaccine
for every man, woman and child in America, if necessary. The secretary also
noted strides in anthrax vaccine research that he expects to be available by
mid-2005.

Ridge reported several initiatives Homeland Security has implemented against a
bioterrorism attack, a plan he also said begins with "better coordination
within."

He said under the president's new national biodefense directive, all
bioterrorism projects and programs will fall under a coordinated and focused
strategic plan that will help "maximize resources, ensure a common unified
effort across all federal agencies, and address any deficiency that we
discover."

Ridge added that his department's plan for a robust bioterrorism defense
includes the creation of a biological attack warning system and an improved
distribution system for critical antibiotics and vaccines.

A biological agent detection program called BioWatch has been tested in most
major cities, he said. BioWatch can deploy environmental sensors in major urban
areas to sample the air for biological agents. The department tested the system
earlier this month in Washington. Ridge said the president's budget this year
contains $118 million to support and expand the program, including the
development of improved environmental monitors.

In addition, Homeland Security has established a new National Biodefense
Analysis and Countermeasures Center to study biological agents and to track
down the source of any release that might occur, he said.

Ridge acknowledged that the bioterrorism threat is "too great for any single
government entity to address," adding that, "all government agencies are
working diligently together not just to meet the threat, but to defeat the
threat as well."

Wolfowitz said the Defense Department has been the primary biodefense
organization in government. He noted that DoD has heavily invested in
facilities and science to protect service members against anthrax, smallpox and
Ebola threats.

One of the most important efforts by DoD to combat bioterrorism, Wolfowitz
said, was the establishment of the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of
Infectious Diseases at Fort Detrick, Md. For decades, he said, the laboratory
has been in the forefront of researching, developing and fielding medical and
nonmedical defenses against biological weapons. Wolfowitz said the institute is
expanding its research base with the establishment of the National Biodefense
Campus, now under construction at Fort Detrick.

He said the new lab and will work with Health and Human Services and Homeland
Security to help the government respond to potentially catastrophic threats.

The Defense Department is spending $1.1 billion for the Installation Protection
Program, which will provide chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear
detection and defense capabilities for 200 DoD installations in the United
States and overseas, Wolfowitz said. nother $800 million will be spent on new
and emerging technologies in protection, detection, decontamination and medical
countermeasure development against current and emerging threats.

The department also is establishing collaborative programs with U.S. allies,
particularly through NATO, he said.

Biographies:
Health and Human Services
Secretary Tommy G. Thompson [http://www.hhs.gov/about/bios/dhhssec.html]
Homeland
Security Secretary Tom Ridge [http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/display?theme=11&content=13]
Deputy Defense Secretary Paul
Wolfowitz [/bios/wolfowitz_bio.html]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Department of Health and Human Services [http://www.hhs.gov/]
Department of Homeland Security [http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/]
BioWatch Program [https://www.bids.tswg.gov/hsarpa/bids.nsf/F32FE3B1449E699D85256DC70065EB27/$FILE/BioWatchFactSheetFINAL.pdf]
U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of
Infectious Diseases [http://www.usamriid.army.mil/]
DoD Installation Protection
Program [http://www.jpeocbd.osd.mil/Guard_IPP.htm]
North Atlantic Treaty Organization [http://www.nato.int/]

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 11:43 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Extremists Desperate to Derail Iraqi Sovereignty, Bush Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2004 – As the June 30 handoff of sovereignty to an Iraqi
government approaches, extremist elements within Iraq are becoming more
desperate to derail the process, President Bush said April 28.

In a brief news conference following a White House meeting with Swedish Prime
Minister Goran Persson, Bush said coalition forces will "deal with those who
want to stop the march to freedom."

The president said insurgents in Fallujah will not succeed in driving out the
coalition. "They want to kill innocent life and try to get us to quit. And
we're not going to," Bush said. "And our military commanders will take whatever
action is necessary to secure Fallujah on behalf of the Iraqi people."

He noted that most of the restive Iraqi city is returning to normal, though
there are some pockets of resistance. "And we will – our military, along with
Iraqis – will make sure it's secure," he added.

Bush and Persson also discussed a Swedish citizen being held as an enemy
detainee at the U.S. detention center at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Persson
expressed his country's concern that the Swedish prisoner either be released or
brought to trial.

"We want to work closely with our friends. We have done so with other
countries, and we will do so with Sweden," Bush said. "There is a delegation
coming over so that we can fully understand the facts and the consequences."

Related Site:
Text
of Remarks by President Bush and Swedish Prime Minister Goran Persson, The
White House, April 28, 2004 [http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/04/20040428-3.html]

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 11:44 AM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 384-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 29, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting
Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Marquis A. Whitaker, 20, of Columbus, Ga., died April 27 in Scania, Iraq, after
falling from a bridge. His vehicle was hit from behind by a civilian truck and left
hanging off the side of the bridge. Whitaker attempted to climb out of the vehicle
but fell. Whitaker was assigned to the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Polk, La.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public
Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 01:31 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Comptroller Nominee Says She'd Target Troop Pay Problems
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2004 – The presidential nominee tabbed to replace former
DoD Comptroller Dov. S. Zakheim told a Senate committee April 27 that she'd
look into pay problems that have plagued some National Guard members deployed
overseas in the war against terrorism.

Appearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Capitol Hill, nominee
Tina W. Jonas pledged to make it a "first priority" upon her confirmation to
investigate why some deployed National Guard troops have experienced delayed or
inaccurate paychecks.

Jonas has served as the FBI's chief financial officer since Sept. 6, 2002.
Before that, she was the deputy undersecretary of defense for financial
management.

Colorado Sen. Wayne Allard pointed out to Jonas that a recent General
Accounting Office report cited pay problems among some National Guardsmen being
deployed overseas. Allard pointed out that many affected troops came from his
state. The senator asked Jonas if she'd "get on top" of the issue.

Jonas responded she'd "be very happy to look into" the pay issue. "There's
nothing more important than a paycheck for our men and women in uniform, and
particularly the Guard issues," she said.

Virginia Sen. John Warner, the committee chairman, observed to Jonas that DoD
is expected to ask for more supplemental funding to prosecute the war on terror
– specifically to fund military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. He then
noted that Jonas had previously told him she hadn't worked with budget
supplemental issues during her prior stint at the Pentagon.

The chairman said supplemental budget requests from the Defense Department are
"critically important" to the war effort. "You just can't anticipate with the
certainty that's necessary to put down in a presidential normal budget request
what is needed, he explained. Saying he supports the supplemental process as it
is, and that he believes it will continue, he told Jonas she'd "be very much
involved in the forthcoming supplemental."

Jonas told the committee that, if confirmed, she'd continue efforts to
modernize DoD's financial accounting infrastructure, and that she'd investigate
a troubled air tanker leasing program.

Biography:
Tina W. Jonas [http://www.fbi.gov/libref/executives/jonas.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Office of the Undersecretary of Defense
(Comptroller) [/comptroller/]
Senate Armed Services
Committee [http://armed-services.senate.gov/]
Answers to
Questions Posed in Advance of Her Confirmation Hearing from the Senate Armed
Services Committee to DoD Comptroller Nominee Tina W. Jonas [http://armed-services.senate.gov/statemnt/2004/April/Jonas.pdf]

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 02:16 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 385-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 29, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

General Officer Assignments

_ _ The chief of staff, Army announces the assignment of the following
officers:

Maj. Gen. John R. Wood, commanding general, 2d Infantry Division, Eighth
U.S. Army, Korea, to director for joint experimentation, J-9, U.S. Joint Forces
Command, Norfolk, Va.

Brig. Gen. Steven P. Schook, chief of staff, Kosovo Force (Main), Camp
Bondsteel, Kosovo, to commander/senior military representative, North Atlantic
Treaty Organization Headquarters, Sarajevo.

Col. Michael C. Flowers, director, human resources policy directorate,
Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1, U.S. Army, Washington, D.C., to chief of
staff, Kosovo Force (Main), Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo.

Col. Mark V. Phelan, deputy director for Special Operations, J-3, the
Joint Staff, Washington, D.C., to a newly established joint general officer billet
as the deputy director, Special Operations, J-33C, the Joint Staff, Washington, D.C.

The assignments of Flowers and Phelan should not be construed as the
Senate's consent of their promotion nomination, and there will be no action to frock
or promote them until Senate confirmation.

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 02:35 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: 10 Soldiers Killed in Iraq, Fallujah Talks Continue
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2004 – A total of 10 American soldiers have been killed
in Iraq April 28 and today, Pentagon officials said.

Eight U.S. soldiers were killed today when a car packed with explosives blew up
next to them in Mahmudiyah, a city about 20 miles south of Baghdad. Four
soldiers were seriously wounded. The car was parked by the side of the road and
had been set up as an improvised explosive device, officials said.

In another incident today, a soldier in eastern Baghdad was killed as a result
of a rocket-propelled grenade attack. Another soldier died April 28 as a result
of an automobile accident in Baghdad.

The names of the soldiers are being withheld, pending notification of next of
kin.

A Combined Joint Task Force 7 news release from Baghdad today provided details
of April 28 attacks on Iraqi police in Mosul that left seven police officers
and one civilian dead. Two Iraqi policemen were shot in front of their homes.
Later, a drive-by shooting killed one civilian and wounded an Iraqi policeman
as they stood guard at the residence of the Mosul chief of police. Five
policemen chased the attackers and were ambushed in an open field, where all
five were killed. During the pursuit, the assailants tried to steal a car and
shot and wounded the driver after he refused to hand over the car keys, the
news release said.

Pentagon officials said discussions continue with leaders in the western Iraqi
city of Fallujah. The Marines continue to ring the city and fire only when
fired upon, officials said. They also said Iraqi security forces are working
with the Marines. Some units are being repositioned, but that in no way means
the pressure on the anti-coalition forces is being diminished, officials said.

Officials in Iraq said the enemy in Fallujah continues to launch small attacks
on Marine positions. They said they still estimate that the former regime
forces and foreign fighters who make up the backbone of the enemy in Fallujah
number between 1,000 and 3,000.

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 03:14 PM

From: DoD Transcripts <dltranscripts_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Secretary Rumsfeld Stakeout After Closed Hearing
To: DODTRANSCRIPTS-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

NEWS TRANSCRIPT from the United States Department of Defense

DoD News Briefing
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld
Wednesday, April 28, 2004

UNKNOWN: The secretary of defense and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs
have finished another regular briefing of over half of the United States Senate. We
covered a full range of issues with regard to Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere in the
world. The secretary will take a question or two with the gentlemen.

Mr. Secretary?

RUMSFELD: Thank you sir. We're due over in the House of
Representatives to brief them in about 13 minutes, so I'll take a question or two.

Q: [Inaudible.]

RUMSFELD: Well, one always would wish that more people would grab a
hold of that country and provide the kind of leadership that's important. I think
that it is useful, however, to think of how many have done that. You have 25
members of the governing council who have shown courage. You have the ministers of
all the cabinet departments who have shown courage. You have governors and city
councils and provincial councils all across the nation. You have people who have --
200,000 who have joined the Iraqi security forces and, with only a few exceptions,
have performed well. And we also know that the remnants of that regime killed those
people. Three hundred of the Iraqi security people have lost their lives.

We know that teachers have been threatened with guns and said, "Close
your schools." So it takes courage in a violent environment for a person to stand
up and say, "I'm for law and order, I'm for freedom, I'm for a representative
system." And there are a lot of them doing that.

I don't see a lot of that in the newspapers, frankly. What we see are
the ones who are critics and who are doing bad things. I mean, here's a wonderful
picture that just gives you a little sense of -- this is a mosque in An Najaf. And
you can see they have all kinds of religious instruments, called rocket-propelled
grenades and AK-47s. That's what they do in their mosques. So that isn't in the
paper.

Q: Mr. Secretary, can you tell us...

UNKNOWN: Could you speak up, please? Thank you.

Q: [Inaudible] the coalition might threaten it further
[Inaudible] Abizaid's decision and can you tell us what importance you now attach
to the coalition remaining [Inaudible]?

RUMSFELD: Well, we have gone around to the - I think it's 33 or 2 --
countries now that are involved in Iraq with the United States and Great Britain.
And with the exception of Spain and Honduras, the countries have been very, very
stand-up. I mean, we've heard comments from Italy and we've heard comments from
other nations who've said that they have considered it and they have made a
considered judgment that they don't believe that appeasement is a good idea. They
don't believe that you can make a separate peace with terrorists, that they believe
this is noble tasks and that it's important that it be finished. And I must say, I
recognize that that takes political courage, on the part of those governments and it
also takes personal courage on the part of their troops and we're darned
appreciative of that. We're going to have to-

Q: [Inaudible]

RUMSFELD: Time will tell.

UNKNOWN: Question?

Q: What about the operations [Inaudible] outside of [Inaudible] ?

RUMSFELD: What's going on is some terrorists and regime remnants have
been attacking our forces and our forces have been going in and killing them.

UNKNOWN: Thank you very much.

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 03:15 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Civil Affairs Mission Continues to Grow in Iraq, Afghanistan
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2004 — Winning the hearts and minds of the Iraqi and
Afghan people is much more than just a slogan for the 96th Civil Affairs
Battalion (Airborne).

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404295a.jpg] available.
</font></table>

The Army's only active-duty civil affairs battalion, based at Fort Bragg, N.C.,
focuses 24/7 on bridging the gap between U.S. and coalition forces and the
local populations. It's a mission that continues in peacetime as well as war.

Maj. Don Sculli, executive officer for the battalion's C Company, said his most
valuable tool in carrying out the job typically isn't his weapon or combat
gear. "The most important thing you bring in may be your Rolodex," he said.

Civil affairs teams support commanders on the battlefield, forming
relationships with "movers and shakers" to gain cooperation and, ideally,
support for the operation. Using their language skills and expertise about the
local culture, they work with local governments and civilian aid organizations
to rebuild infrastructure and restore stability.

In the war on terror, the 96th Civil Affairs Battalion has made important
inroads into the local populations. Unit members helped get power plants and
other infrastructure in Iraq up and running. They got local power brokers to
help them move excess military medical supplies to Iraqi medical facilities
that had none. In Afghanistan, they trained and armed a 295-man militia, set up
a police force, provided much-needed medical care and personally built six
schools with the first flushing toilets ever seen in the region. The list goes
on and on.

On the surface, some might not see the military implications of these efforts,
but unit members say they're considerable. Shortly after the ground war kicked
off in Iraq, Sgt. 1st Class Keith Ducote, team sergeant for the battalion's B
Company, said troops were getting "sniped at" in a village outside Baghdad.
Ducote's team started handing out toys to children in the village to begin
forming bonds with the people. But what really made the difference, he said,
was when the team sponsored a dental hygiene class to teach about 300 local
children how to brush and floss their teeth, then handed out dental kits.

After that, Ducote said, people within the village started approaching him to
report where insurgents had hidden weapons. "Just about every cache of weapons
we've found has been the result of someone coming forward," agreed Victor
Anderson, a medic with the battalion's E Company.

Military leaders may have given the civil affairs mission relatively short
shrift in the past, but no more. They've come to recognize the important role
of civil and are incorporating civil-military operations into their battle
plans from the earliest planning stages. Trained civil affairs staffs now are
an integral part of every command staff.

"The words 'civil-military operations' are now in the Army lexicon," said
Anderson. "It's not an afterthought anymore."

But just as the military is gaining a better appreciation of the value civil
affairs, the Army is finding itself stretched painfully thin in manpower to
cover the demand.

The 96th Civil Affairs Battalion is in a constant state of deployment. "We
basically have three states," Sculli explained. "You're either there, you just
got home, or you're getting ready to go."

For the first 20 months after Sept. 11, 2001, Sculli said he both started and
ended a full month at home just three times. Anderson, E Company's only Special
Forces medic, has been deployed 14 months out of the last two years, with two
tours in Afghanistan and one in Iraq. Just returned from his latest deployment,
he is already preparing to return to Southwest Asia. "We deploy a lot," he
said.

Yet the battalion represents just 4 percent of the Army's civil affairs
capability. The vast majority of civil affairs expertise lies in the reserve
components. These units, too, are so overtaxed by multiple deployments that
Thomas F. Hall, the assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs, is
pushing to shift more civil affairs jobs into the active force.

Concerned that too few soldiers are being called on repeatedly to fulfill too
many demands, the DoD leadership is rethinking the civil affairs manning chart.
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld supports plans to "rebalance" the force to
relieve the burden on civil affairs and other "high-demand, low density" or
"stressed" specialties concentrated in the reserve components.

Plans are under way to double the size of the battalion, from just over 200
soldiers to about 400 by fiscal 2005 to increase its operational capability.

And while defense leaders tweak the manning charts to help create more civil
affairs experts capable of deploying quickly to carry out the civil affairs
mission, Sculli said the military is recognizing that civil affairs isn't
exclusively the job of civil affairs specialists.

"People are starting to understand that civil-military operations is
everybody's job in stabilization operations, not just the civil affairs guy's,"
he said. "Everybody has to do it and be trained to do it. And little by little,
I think we're getting there."

Biographies:
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld [/bios/rumsfeld_bio.html]
Assistant Defense Secretary for Reserve Affairs
Thomas F. Hall [/bios/hall_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Army Civil Affairs
Fact Sheet [http://www.soc.mil/usacapoc/civilaffairsfs.shtml]
Fort Bragg, N.C. [http://www.bragg.army.mil/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

200404295b.jpg Army Maj. Don Sculli, executive officer for the 96th Civil
Affairs Battalion's C Company, meets an Iraqi hospital administrator in Najaf,
April 22, 2003. Sculli delivered medical supplies and equipment to help
resupply Iraqi medical facilities. Photo by Staff Sgt. Kyle Davis, USA

200404295b_hr.jpg High resolution photo

200404295c.jpg Sgt. 1st Class Victor Andersen, a Special Forces medic with the
96th Civil Affairs Battalion (Airborne), helps a local Afghan laborer replace
windows at a newly rebuilt school in Orgun-e, Afghanistan. Army photo

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 04:35 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Afghanistan Efforts Paying Off, DoD Official Tells House Committee
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2004 – U.S. and coalition efforts in Afghanistan are
paying off in that formerly Taliban-controlled country, a senior U.S. official
told House Armed Services Committee members today.

Peter W. Rodman, assistant secretary of defense for international security
affairs, said on Capitol Hill that the Afghan people "are embarked on a great
undertaking" after decades of war and "fanatical Taliban rule."

Though reconstruction of Afghanistan's political and social infrastructure will
take years, Rodman said, he pointed to accomplishments achieved since coalition
troops liberated Afghanistan from the Taliban:

<li type=disc> A transitional government was established in June 2002.

<li type=disc> A new constitution was ratified in January.

<li type=disc> More than 8,000 new Afghan National Army troops have been
trained. ANA units have participated in joint patrols and combat missions.

<li type=disc> Construction of the vital Kabul-to-Kandahar road will
facilitate regional commerce.

<li type=disc> U.S., coalition and Afghan troops remain on the offensive
against remnant Taliban and al Qaeda terrorists.

"Our military operations are focused on denying terrorist organizations safe
haven and freedom of movement throughout eastern Afghanistan, along the porous
border with Pakistan," Rodman explained.

And, Rodman noted, the first Afghan national elections held in decades will
take place in September. More than 1.8 million Afghans have registered to vote,
he reported, with women making up almost a third of those registered.

The United Nations, the Afghan interior and defense m inistries, NATO's
International Security Assistance Force and coalition forces are working a
security plan for the upcoming elections, Rodman said.

Although security in Afghanistan "will never be 100 percent," Rodman said the
country's political leaders and its people "are not likely to be easily
intimidated." The Afghan government, led by President Hamid Karzai, "is
redoubling its efforts to strengthen security around the country," he said.

Rodman noted that 20,000 new Afghan National Police are slated to complete
their training in June, while the yearly quota for Afghan National Army
training has increased to 10,800 troops from 6,000 per year.

A pilot program designed to eliminate private militias across the country has
demobilized 6,225 former combatants, Rodman said. That program, he added, has
grown into an Afghan government plan to eliminate 40 percent of militias and
100 percent of heavy weapons in the country by June.

Provincial reconstruction teams continue to assist Afghan security and
reconstruction programs throughout the country, Rodman said. Leadership of the
PRTs, he noted, "will be gradually transferred to the Afghan government" as its
security capacities mature.

Rodman acknowledged some regional warlords have been complicit in a "recent
surge in poppy cultivation and distribution" in Afghanistan. DoD has a key
counter-narcotics role to play in Afghanistan, he observed, noting DoD's
supplemental fiscal 2004 budget provides $73 million for anti-drug operations
there.

About 17,000 U.S. forces are in Afghanistan, Rodman noted, primarily conducting
counter-terrorist missions chiefly in the southern and eastern regions of the
country. He said more than 6,000 ISAF troops assist Afghan police and security
elements in the capital city of Kabul. Eighteen other countries, besides the
U.S., "have forces on the ground" in Afghanistan, Rodman said.

Biography:
Assistant Secretary of Defense for
International Security Affairs Peter W. Rodman [/bios/rodman_bio.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
House Armed Services
Committee [http://armedservices.house.gov/]
Assistant Secretary of Defense for International
Security Affairs Peter W. Rodman's Testimony for the House Armed Serrvices
Committee, April 29, 2004 [http://armedservices.house.gov/openingstatementsandpressreleases/108thcon
gress/04-04-29rodman.html]

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 05:26 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Wolfowitz Seeks Flexibility in Security Assistance Spending
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2004 -- Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz asked a
House appropriations subcommittee here today for more flexibility in how
funding for security assistance programs in Iraq is spent.

The focus of the hearing before the Foreign Operations Subcommittee was on the
Bush administration's fiscal 2005 budget request for security assistance.

Wolfowitz used part of his opening statement to explain how elaborate rules for
contracting have made it difficult to get equipment into the hands of Iraqi
forces.

He said Congress has given the Pentagon that flexibility in the past, but would
like it extended particularly beyond the Iraqi army, and in limited amounts to
the Iraqi police and Iraqi Civil Defense Corps.

"We have military units who are fighting side by side with Iraqi units, and
because of many of the elaborate rules that are appropriate in peacetime for
contracting, it is very difficult for them to get the kind of equipment into
the hands of their Iraqi comrades that we can freely get for our American
forces."

The deputy secretary also answered criticism that the Pentagon had taken
control of security assistance spending from the State Department, which
normally controls such function.

Wolfowitz, who testified alongside Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage,
refuted that theory. He said Defense and State are "united in a common interest
in success in Iraq, and we've got to figure out the flexible ways to do that."

Getting the job done is what's important, Wolfowitz told the lawmakers. "The
goal in Iraq is to produce for the American people and the American men and
women who are in harm's way," he said. "It is not to fight over departmental
prerogatives. And I hope it can be taken in the spirit, not of DoD trying to
take over security assistance; we are not." Any new authority on the Pentagon's
part would be subject to concurrence of the State Department, he added.

Arizona Rep. Jim Kolbe, House Appropriations Committee chairman, pointed out
that the entire foreign assistance emergency supplemental funding package of
$18.4 billion has been largely programmed and managed by DoD through the
Coalition Provisional Authority. Wolfowitz said the issue that needs to be
addressed is not the allocations between civilian and military or State and
Defense, but rather between Baghdad and Iraq's provinces.

"Very often the substantial presence in those provinces is because our
circumstance are military," he explained.

Wolfowitz also addressed questions as to whether DoD, by controlling
priorities, was devoting huge sums of money to infrastructure projects that
yielded few visible signs of reconstruction efforts.

New York Rep. Nita Lowey said such efforts leave "many Iraqis with the
impression that the United States is doing nothing to improve their daily
lives." Kolbe said only $2.24 billion of the $18.4 billion has been obligated;
"even less has been expended."

Wolfowitz testified that progress was being made in Iraq, and that of the money
obligated already, most was spent on security, electricity and democracy
building. He said the pace of allocations will increase substantially over the
coming months, adding that another $6.4 billion is already committed and that
he expects that money to move "fairly quickly."

Kolbe said in his opening statement that he had "very serious" concerns about
the pace of assistance funding in Iraq, and the management of those funds. He
asked Wolfowitz for assurances that the Pentagon is "fulfilling its fiduciary
responsibility" to the taxpayers and troops who are relying on a successful
implementation of the program. He also asked that the Pentagon take aggressive
steps to expedite foreign assistance activities.

Wolfowitz said the Pentagon is reviewing the contracting process to see how
more of the $18 billion supplemental might be spent.

He told the committee the Pentagon shares its concern about the importance of
"getting money out in the field." Nonmilitary projects are just as important to
winning the war as military operations, he added. "It is critical that we
sustain the support of the Iraqi people," Wolfowitz said.

He cited progress in restoring electricity, in school construction and in the
health care sector, but emphasized the importance of security. "Unless there's
security," Wolfowitz said, "all of the other progress doesn't matter."

Biographies:
Deputy Defense Secretary Paul
Wolfowitz [/bios/wolfowitz_bio.html]
Deputy Secretary of State
Richard Armitage [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/biog/2991.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
House Appropriations
Committee [http://appropriations.house.gov/]
Foreign Operations Subcommittee [http://appropriations.house.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=AboutTheCommittee.Su
bcommittees&SubcommitteeId=9]

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 05:26 PM

CONTRACTS from the United States Department of Defense

No. 386-04
FOR RELEASE AT
Apr 29, 2004
(703)697-5131(media)
(703)428-0711(public/industry)

Thursday, April 29, 2004 - 5:00 PM
Contracts, Thursday, April 29, 2004

CONTRACTS

AIR FORCE

Boeing Information, Seattle, Wash., is being awarded a $524,040,890
fixed price incentive fee contract modification. This undefinitized contract action
for the production and retrofit phase of the global solution for NATO AWACS mid-term
modernization program. It includes long lead items, initial spares, follow-on
spares, resolution of diminishing manufacturing sources issues and time and
materials support activities. At this time, $201,040,890 of the funds has been
obligated. This work will be complete by September 2008. The Headquarters
Electronic Systems Center, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., is the contracting
activity (F19628-97-C-0112).

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Rolling Meadows, Ill., is being awarded
a $15,218,177 firm fixed price contract modification to provide for the Large
Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) contract with Northrop Grumman Systems
Corp. will be modified to procure LAIRCM systems, aircraft modification, and
associated support for Kulis, Alaska Air National Guard C-130 aircraft. Locations
of performance are: Northrop Grumman, Rolling Meadows, Ill., and BAE Systems
Avionics Limited, Edinburgh, Scotland. At this time, $7,609,088 of the funds has
been obligated. This work will be complete by February 2006. The Headquarters
Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the
contracting activity (F33657-01-C-2093, P00046).

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Rolling Meadows, Ill., is being awarded
a $8,197,436 firm fixed price contract modification to provide for the Large
Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) contract with Northrop Grumman Systems
Corp. will be modified to procure LAIRCM systems, aircraft modification, and
associated support for Kulis, Alaska Air National Guard C-130 aircraft. Locations
of performance are: Northrop Grumman, Rolling Meadows, Ill., and BAE Systems
Avionics Limited, Edinburgh, Scotland. At this time, $4,098,718 of the funds has
been obligated. This work will be complete by February 2006. The Headquarters
Aeronautical Systems Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the
contracting activity (F33657-01-C-2093, P00055).

Contract Fabrication and Design, Princeton, Texas, is being awarded a
$8,190,000.05 firm fixed price contract to provide for manufacture of twenty-one
production gun mount/ammunition handling system kits applicable to HH-60 helicopter
in support of Air Force Special Operations Forces requirements. Solicitation began
January 2004 and negotiations were completed March 2004. The Headquarters Robins
Air Logistics Center, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity
(FA8509-04-C-0022).

_MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY_

Lockheed Martin integrated Systems and Solutions of Gaithersburg,
Maryland is being issues a sole source modification to HQ0006-0209-0002 increasing
the agreement value by $236,600,000. This modification is for the development,
integration, and installation of the Command, Control, Battle Management and
Communications Capability for the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) for effort
to be performed April 1, 2004 through December 31, 2005. This work is central to
the integration of formerly stand-alone system elements into an effective, layered
BMDS, and the interoperability of missile defense command and control operations, at
the various combatant commanders' sites. Funds will not expire at the end of the
current fiscal year. The contracting activity is the Missile Defense Agency, 7100
Defense Pentagon, Washington, DC 20301-7100. The work under this modification will
be funded using Fiscal Year 04, 05 and 06 RDT&E funds. (HQ0006-02-9-0002)

ARMY

General Electric Aircraft Engine, Cincinnati, Ohio, was awarded on April
28, 2004, a $61,291,918 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for the overhaul
and repair of the entire T700 family of engines. Work will be performed in Corpus
Christi, Texas, and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2004. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source
contract initiated on Aug. 22, 2000. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command,
Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (DAAH23-00-C-0347).

General Dynamics-Ordnance and Tactical Systems, Marion, Ill., was
awarded on April 28, 2004, a $15,747,262 firm-fixed-price contract for 1,468,550
cartridges for the 30mm target practice. Work will be performed in Marion, Ill.,
and is expected to be completed by May 31, 2005. Contract funds will not expire at
the end of the current fiscal year. There were two bids solicited on Dec. 19, 2003,
and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Field Support Command, Rock Island, Ill.,
is the contracting activity (W52P1J-04-C-0044).

Alliant Ammunition Systems Company L.L.C., Arden Hills, Minn., was
awarded on April 28, 2004, a $12,690,756 firm-fixed-price contract for 979,225
cartridges for the 30mm target practice. Work will be performed in Arden Hills,
Minn., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 28, 2005. Contract funds will not
expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were two bids solicited on Dec.
19, 2003, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Field Support Command, Rock
Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-04-C-0045).

DRS Optronics Inc., Palm Bay, Fla., was awarded on April 28, 2004, a
$9,243,040 firm-fixed-price contract for a driver vision enhancer. Work will be
performed in Palm Bay, Fla., and is expected to be completed by April 29, 2008.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an
unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Nov. 21, 2003, and three
bids were received. The U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command, Fort
Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-04-C-J202).

MCI Worldcom Communications Inc., Vienna, Va., was awarded on April 23,
2004, a $7,879,000 firm-fixed-price contract for a modern, digital cellular, command
and control system to link together the various new sites of the Iraqi Armed Forces
and the Coalition Military Assistance Training Team. Work will be performed in
various Iraqi sites, and is expected to be completed by March 22, 2007. Contract
funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were three bids
solicited on March 15, 2004, and two bids were received. The Information
Technology, E-Commerce, and Commercial Contracting Center – West, Fort Huachuca,
Ariz., is the contracting activity (W91RUS-04-C-0028).

Swiss Controls Inc.*, Michigan City, Ind., was awarded on April 28,
2004, a delivery order amount of $717,060 as part of an $8,850,994 firm-fixed-price
contract for parking lights for the High Mobility Multi Wheeled Vehicle. Work will
be performed in Michigan City, Ind., and is expected to be completed by April 30,
2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There
were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Feb. 9, 2004, and
five bids were received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command,
Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-04-D-0150).

Ross Equipment*, Elizabeth, N.J., was awarded on April 28, 2004, a
delivery order amount of $430,057 as part of a $20,261,125 firm-fixed-price contract
for the High Mobility Multi Wheeled Vehicle axial impeller fan. Work will be
performed in Elizabeth, N.J., and is expected to be completed by Nov. 21, 2009.
Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an
unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Dec. 24, 2003, and five
bids were received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Warren,
Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-04-D-0140).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

Aurora Power Resources, Inc.*, Houston, Texas, was awarded a $28,074,082
fixed price with economic price adjustment type of contract for natural gas for the
U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force and Federal Civilian agencies. Performance completion
date is expected to be September 30, 2006. Contract funds will not expire at the
end of this fiscal year. There were three proposal solicitations and one responded.
The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va.
(SP0600-04-D-7904)

NAVY

BAE Systems Applied Technologies Inc, Rockville, Md., is being awarded
an $8,156,730 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification under previously awarded contract
(N00024-04-C-5129) to exercise an option for surface combatant combat systems
engineering. Services include providing Aegis Combat System (ACS) program
management, engineering, and technical support, as well as ship construction, Navy
information technology support. Work will be performed in Rockville, Md., and is
expected to be completed by September 2004. Contract funds will not expire at the
end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is
the contracting activity.

McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Co.,
St. Louis, Mo. is being awarded a $7,183,728 modification to a previously awarded
cost-plus-incentive-fee/award-fee contract (N00019-03-C-0041) to exercise an option
for the performance based logistics support of the F/A-18 Advanced Targeting Forward
Looking Infrared (ATFLIR) system for calendar year 2004. Work will be performed in
St. Louis, Mo. And, is expected to be completed in December 2004. Contract funds
will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command is the
contracting activity.

* Small Business

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 05:34 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: 27 Years After Retirement, Doctor to Serve in Iraq
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2004 — Some might say he's got it all: a military
retirement, a happy marriage spanning almost 50 years and a successful medical
practice in Fayetteville, N.C.

<spacer type=vertical size=5>
<table border="2" bordercolor="#000000" cellspacing="4" cellpadding="4"
align="left" width="300" alt="photo" bgcolor="#fffff5"> high-
resolution image [/news/Apr2004/200404299a.jpg] available. </font></table>

But today Dr. John Ritchey will close his ophthalmology office, turn over his
patient records to two other local doctors, and prepare to put on the Army
uniform he last hung up 27 years ago to serve in Iraq.

Ritchey, age 68, said he has volunteered to return to active duty to serve in
every major conflict since Operation Desert Storm -- but with one condition. He
didn't want to serve as "backfill" for deployed troops, but rather, to deploy
to the theater.

So this time, when Ritchey got a call from the Army Surgeon General's office
telling him the Army needed eye surgeons in Iraq, he accepted.

"I think of it as payback," he said. "The Army has always been very good to
me."

So on June 1, Ritchey will report to Fort Bliss, Texas — the same post where,
fresh out of the U.S. Military Academy, he spent three years with an air
defense artillery unit before going to medical school at the University of
Oregon.

He's not sure how long he will be at Fort Bliss, what the Army will do to
prepare him for his deployment, or when he will ship out to Iraq. He's also not
sure exactly how long he'll be deployed, or if he'll resume duty as a
lieutenant colonel, his rank when he retired from the Army in 1977.

What Ritchey does know is that he'll be working in Iraq with the 1967th Surgical
Detachment for three to six months, and that he's likely to see far more eye
and face trauma than he typically sees in his civilian practice.

Ritchey has experienced combat before, when he served as a flight surgeon in
Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division. Thirty-seven years later, he admits
he's a bit scared about what's ahead, "but certainly not enough to back out."

Even the latest rash of violence in Iraq hasn't discouraged him. "I've got no
second thoughts," he said. "If anything, it's firmed my resolve more than
ever."

In reality, Ritchey has been a lot closer to conflict than many of his medical
colleagues. He and his wife June are active in SEE International, a Santa
Barbara, Calif.-based group that provides volunteer medical care in poor and
war-torn countries. SEE stands for Surgical Eye Erxpeditions. Ritchey has
traveled to Mongolia, Bulgaria, Nepal, Africa, El Salvador, Guiana and Peru,
among other countries, to provide much-needed medical care.

He calls the experience a "great source of satisfaction and adventure," and
said he looks at his deployment to Iraq as "another opportunity."

As he prepared to see his last patients this afternoon before closing down his
practice, Ritchey admitted he felt a tinge of sadness about leaving behind a
staff he adores and some patients he has treated for more than 30 years, since
he was still on active duty at Fort Bragg's Army Medical Center. "That's
probably the hardest part," he said. "But I don't look at this as a sacrifice
at all. I see this as an opportunity to use the skills I'm trained in to
provide the best care possible to the people who need it."

Related Sites:
Fort Bliss, Texas [http://www.bliss.army.mil/]
Fort Bragg, N.C. [http://www.bragg.army.mil/]
SEE International [http://www.seeintl.org/]
<spacer type= vertical size=5>

200404299b.jpg Retired Army Lt. Col. (Dr.) John Ritchey will deploy to Iraq to
treat wounded troops. Photo by Tracy Wilcox, courtesy of The Fayetteville
Observer

200404299b_hr.jpg High resolution photo

Seoulstriker

04-29-2004, 06:28 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 387-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 29, 2004
Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Jacob R. Herring, 21, of Kirkland, Wash., died April 28, in Mosul, Iraq,
from injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device in Talafar, Iraq struck
his vehicle. Spc. Herring was assigned to the Army's 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry
Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs
at (703) 692-2000.

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 10:10 AM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Stars and Stripes Offers Free Electronic Newspaper
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2004 -- Service members who don't have access to the
Stars and Stripes newspaper but do have access to a computer can now go online
to read or download an exact replica of the paper at no charge.

Stars and Stripes officials said the electronic version of the newspaper is an
effort to reach readers in remote areas.

Stars and Stripes launched the free service just in time to salute service
members during Military Appreciation Month, which is celebrated in May. Free
online versions of the newspaper's European, Pacific and Middle East editions
became available starting April 26.

Tom Kelsch, the newspaper's publisher, said the free online newspaper is geared
to service members in remote locations, but that any service member anywhere in
the world, as well as family members, can use the service.

"We have many military (people) stationed in places where it just isn't
practical to get the printed edition to them, and this is a way to be able to
reach (them) wherever in the world they're stationed," Kelsch explained, as
long as they have a computer and Internet access so they can access the
electronic version.

Service members and their families can read the paper online or download it in
the .pdf file format at the estripes.osd.mil Web site. Officials recommend that
readers who want to print the paper and read it that way use the "fit to paper"
option when printing. The site also offers free access to past newspapers up to
seven days.

Kelsch said the electronic newspaper is a cost-effective way to get the Stars
and Stripes to service members at bases in isolated place overseas, such as
Iceland or Crete, where delivery is expensive. He said it is also a way for the
newspaper to reach service members stateside at bases "where circulation is low
or the paper is not offered."

Kelsch pointed out that offering Stars and Stripes free online to service
members does not mean the printed edition is going away. He said evidence
indicates most people still want to hold a newspaper in their hands, and that
the online version really is most valuable to people who can't get the paper
otherwise.

Printed editions of the paper still will be delivered to service members in
places like Afghanistan and Iraq, where computer access is limited, he said.
Each day nearly 45,000 copies of the paper are delivered throughout the Middle
East region, and plans call for increasing that number, he said. The newspaper
delivers an estimated 25,000 copies to Iraq, another 3,500 to Afghanistan, and
15,000 to Kuwait, he added.

Kelsch said he expects Stars and Stripes to make little, if any, revenue from
the venture, although some advertising revenue may carry over to the online
edition. He emphasized that the primary reason for the free offer is to help
the newspaper fulfill its mission is to get the paper out to service members.

"We have a mission to serve, and we intend to serve that mission," he said.
"This is a way that we can do it very well, and so we're going to do it."

Last year, like many newspapers in the country, Stars and Stripes began
offering a paid subscription service for the electronic version of its daily
paper: $15 per week, 13 weeks for $48.75, or 50 cents per issue weekdays and 75
cents on Sunday. Kelsch admitted that few readers subscribe to the Stars and
Stripes electronic edition, and that he's not sure how many will log on for the
free editions.

He said other newspapers in the industry are getting similar results from
online subscriptions. "Other newspapers that use electronic editions are
getting about the same or fewer results that we were getting," he said.

Related Sites:
Free Electronic Stars and Stripes [http://estripes.osd.mil]
Stars and Stripes [http://www.stripes.com/]

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 12:17 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Rumsfeld Cites Progress, Opportunity for Iraqi People
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2004 – Acknowledging that the road to a free and
sovereign Iraq is "bumpy," Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld pointed to a
year of progress and said the Iraqi people have a "wonderful opportunity."

Appearing on the MSNBC program "Hardball" April 29, Rumsfeld told host Chris
Matthews that "amazing things" have happened in Iraq since Saddam Hussein was
driven from power.

"They've got a new currency," the secretary said. "They've got the schools
open. They've got the hospitals open. They've got the clinics open. There was
not a humanitarian crisis. Food is there and available to the people. The
people are able to form a part of an Olympic team. They've got a symphony
that's started."

Though no one can know what the future holds, he added, the Iraqi people have a
chance to flourish now that they're free of Saddam. "Certainly there's that
opportunity for 25 million human beings. Men, women, and children who lived in
a repressive, vicious dictatorship have an opportunity to get on a path towards
a freer, more civilized system, and that's a wonderful opportunity."

Rumsfeld said that although the past several weeks have been "a difficult
time," the Iraqi people are intelligent and have the building blocks in place
for a free post-Saddam society "if that country is able to navigate through
this difficult period and end up as a single country that's respectful of the
different religious groups in the country and not a threat to its neighbors."

"They've got water. They've got oil. The economic circumstance in that part of
the world for the neighboring countries in Turkey and Jordan and Saudi Arabia
will be so beneficial," Rumsfeld said. "Women are in school. The mass graves
are not being filled. The people aren't being murdered. (Saddam is) not using
chemicals against his own people or against his neighbors."

Resistance to the coalition in Iraq, the secretary said, seems to be coming
mostly from former regime elements, with some extremists and foreign terrorists
in the mix. He acknowledged that some people without any particularly deep
conviction have been involved in acts against the coalition.

"There are always people in any organization – any cluster of people that are
on the fence," he said, "and to the extent it looks like it's going to go that
way, well, they tip that way or vice versa."

Rumsfeld said the situation in Fallujah could end in any of several ways, but
it does need to be resolved. "There's no question but that for success in Iraq,
you can't have a city taken over by a bunch of terrorists and former-regime
elements and have that persist over a sustained period of time," he said.

"That means it has to end at some point. How it ends, I guess, is an open
question. It could end by the Marines having to go in and go through the place
and root out the terrorists. They're trained to do that. They know how to do
it. They're capable of doing it," he said. "I don't think people doubt the
military power of these folks. They're outstanding soldiers, and courageous.

"It also is possible it could end differently," the secretary continued. "It
could end with this conclave of some 50 to 80 tribal sheiks and former Iraq
military people actually taking over the city and getting the terrorists out of
there and turning over the names of the people who killed the Blackwater folks
and rounding up the weapons." Rumsfeld was referring to the murder and
mutilation of four American contractors in Fallujah on March 31.

"The Marines on the ground are the ones that are making those judgments," he
said, "and thus far they've calculated that it's in our interest to do it the
way they're doing it and to have these discussions with the Sunni tribal
leaders."

The Sunnis, despite being a minority, benefited from Saddam's regime more than
other groups in Iraq, Rumsfeld said, and they recognize that in a new Iraq they
would not have the same kind of power.

"They're not going to be running the country," he said. "They're not going to
be able to deal from a position of strength." The Shiia and the Kurds are going
to have a big role in the new Iraq, he added, but the Sunnis "have to have a
stake."

Rumsfeld said that although sovereignty will turn over to an interim Iraqi
government by June 30, the United States and its coalition partners will
continue to help with security until Iraqi security forces are able to take
over that responsibility.

"And it isn't an easy road," Rumsfeld said, "but if you look back, it's never
been an easy road to go from a dictatorship to a free system. It's bumpy. It's
hard, and it isn't going to be a straight path." He added that as progress
continues, circumstances will sometimes result in setbacks, "and then we have
to keep moving."

Biography:
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld [/bios/rumsfeld_bio.html]

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 01:24 PM

Secretary Rumsfeld Interview with Chris Matthews, MSNBC (http://www.defenselink.mil/transcripts/2004/tr20040429-secdef0682.html)

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 01:45 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 388-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 30, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Korean And Cold War MIA Families Gather For Updates

The Defense Prisoner of War/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) will host a
meeting with more than 500 family members of Korean War and Cold War MIAs Today and
Saturday in McLean, Va.

The Honorable Jerry D. Jennings, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense
for POW/MIA Affairs opened the conference today at 9 a.m. Jennings is responsible
for policy oversight and control of the worldwide mission to account for America's
missing from all conflicts.

The two-day gathering at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner hotel is
tailored to address the concerns of families whose loved ones are missing from both
the Korean and Cold Wars. More than 8,100 Americans are unaccounted-for from the
Korean War, with 126 from the Cold War.

Families who registered for this meeting will receive individualized
updates on their specific cases, but U.S. government specialists will also present
broader information on the effort to account for the missing servicemen. The
presentations will cover a range of topics including negotiations with North Korea,
China and Russia; archival research; field investigations and recovery operations;
and the use of DNA in identifying remains.

The DPMO holds similar meetings in cities across the country and has
reached nearly 9,500 family members since the inception of this outreach program in
1993.

Additional information about this meeting may be found on the DPMO web
site at www.dtic.mil/dpmo [http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo/] ; select "upcoming events."

For information related to this release, contact DPMO at (703) 699-1169.

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 02:03 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: 1st Marine Expeditionary Force Creating 'Fallujah Brigade'
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2004 – The 1st Marine Expeditionary Force is putting
together the first battalion of a new Iraqi brigade being formed to restore and
maintain order in the western city of Fallujah, a coalition military spokesman
announced at a Baghdad news conference today.

An officer from the former Iraqi army will command the unit, which will be an
interim organization under 1st MEF command, said Army Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt,
deputy operations director for Combined Joint Task Force 7.

Kimmitt said the mission of the proposed Fallujah Brigade "is part of the
ongoing aspiration to have Iraqi security forces completely cooperative and
cooperating with the coalition forces to provide security tasks and eventually
to assume responsibility for security and stability throughout Iraq."

Soldiers of the former Iraqi army are being recruited for the new battalion,
Kimmitt said, and the unit will work alongside the 1st MEF to return peace and
stability to Fallujah. The first battalion of the new brigade is expected to
have 600 to 1,100 members, he said.

The 1st MEF, he added, will exercise operational control of the unit and will
provide the resources and equipment it needs.

Marines will continue to maintain a strong presence in and around Fallujah,
Kimmitt said, until the new unit has demonstrated it can man designated
checkpoints and positions.

The general said the new brigade will not replace the Marines in and around
Fallujah. "I think it's very important to understand a number of things," he
said. "Number one, the Marines are not withdrawing from Fallujah. These forces
will be working alongside the Marines. These forces, when they come to
fruition, will be answering to the Marines as well as the Iraqi Ministry of
Defense.

"So this is just an Iraqi component of the coalition forces surrounding
Fallujah," he continued. "It is only happening in certain portions of the
cordon, and the initial reports that we are getting would indicate that this
repositioning of the Marines to allow these forces to come in is going well."

Kimmitt emphasized that the coalition's objectives in Fallujah – to eliminate
armed groups, to collect and control heavy weapons, to have foreign fighters
turned over to the coalition, and to disarm anti-Iraqi insurgents -- remain
unchanged. Coalition forces are not giving up their right to be anywhere
commanders determine they're needed.

"Consistent with our duty to provide security," he said, "coalition forces will
maintain their right of freedom of movement" throughout the area of operations.

The Iraqi general in charge of the new brigade will answer to Marine Lt. Gen.
James T. Conway, the 1st MEF's commanding general. "I know that he has been
carefully chosen (and) has been initially vetted," Kimmitt said. Conway and
Maj. Gen. James N. Mattis, the 1st Marine Division's commanding general, have
expressed "initial confidence" in the Iraqi general, he added.

The goal of turning responsibility for security in Iraq over to Iraqis
necessarily involves using people of various previous loyalties, Kimmitt said.
Potential members of the new Fallujah Brigade, he said, "have demonstrated a
willingness to entertain the notion of serving the nation of Iraq rather than
their tribal leader, rather than their former militia leader, rather than their
former Iraqi army leadership."

Iraqi security forces will work inside Fallujah as order is restored to help
police in their investigations to identify those responsible for the March 31
killing and mutilation of four American contractors and the Feb. 14 attack on
Fallujah's police station, the general said. "When captured, those persons will
be tried in the Iraqi judicial system," he added.

Discussions are still underway toward a peaceful solution in Fallujah, Kimmitt
said, and the coalition welcomes anything that might attain such a result. "But
I think it would also be inopportune if anybody was to somehow misread, again,
what's going on in Fallujah," he added.

"This is not a withdrawal. It's not a retreat," the general said. "The Marines
remain more than capable of continuing the operation to complete the military
return of Fallujah to coalition control. But as long as we continue to see
progress, albeit some days slower than other days, we will continue to pursue
the peaceful track.

"It is only when the peaceful, the diplomatic, the political track demonstrates
that there is no further chance of it bearing fruit will we then look at the
capability of using the Marines to go back into Fallujah," Kimmitt said.

Biographies:
Lt. Gen. James T.
Conway [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/bios/imefcg.htm]
Maj. Gen. James N.
Mattis [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/test.htm?http&&&www.cpp.usmc.mil/1mardiv/default.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Combined Joint Task Force 7 [http://www.cjtf7.com/]
1st Marine Expeditionary Force [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/imef/]
1st Marine Division [http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/test.htm?http&&&www.cpp.usmc.mil/1mardiv/default.htm]

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 02:03 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Congress, Nation Designate Military Appreciation Month
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Gene Harper
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2004 – Both chambers of the U.S. Congress have adopted a
resolution calling for Americans to recognize and honor U.S. service members
during May's National Military Appreciation Month.

Virginia Rep. Tom Davis, along with 16 cosponsors, introduced Concurrent
Resolution No. 328 in the House in November. The Senate agreed to it without
amendment and by unanimous consent April 26.

The resolution states that the House, with the Senate concurring, "supports the
goals and objectives of a National Military Appreciation Month." It also "urges
the president to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United
States, localities, organizations and media to annually observe" the month
"with appropriate ceremonies and activities. Finally, the resolution urges the
White House Commission on Remembrance to "work to support the goals and
objectives" of the month.

The Senate first passed a resolution in 1999 designating National Military
Appreciation Month. That declaration summoned U.S. citizens to observe the
month "in a symbol of unity, … to honor the current and former members of the
armed forces, including those who have died in the pursuit of freedom and
peace."

Traditionally, May has focused on the military in many ways. For example,
Public Service Recognition Week, celebrated the first full Monday through
Sunday in May since 1985, recognizes the roles of public servants, including
the military, at local, state, regional and federal levels. As a part of PSRW,
communities across America showcase military equipment and service members from
U.S. installations. The largest PSRW event takes place on Washington's National
Mall, where more than 100 federal agencies, including the military services,
put their activities, people and equipment on public display. This year's mall
event is May 6-9.

Armed Forces Day, created in 1949, is an annual event held on the third
Saturday in May, with activities at U.S. military bases around the world. This
year's celebration occurs May 15.

The month culminates with Memorial Day, a federal holiday on the last Monday in
May. The day, dating from the Civil War era, traditionally has marked
recognition of those who have died in service to the nation. Each year on
Memorial Day, the White House Commission on Remembrance promotes one minute of
silence at 3 p.m. local time to honor the military's fallen comrades and to pay
tribute to the sacrifices by the nation's service members and veterans.

Related Sites:
Concurrent Resolution No. 328 [http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?c108:5:./temp/~c108T4jFYe::]
DoD Transformation [/transformation/]
National Military Appreciation
Month [/specials/milapprec/milapprec2004/]
White House Commission on Remembrance [http://www.remember.gov]
Public Service Recognition
Week [http://www.theroundtable.org/psrw.html]

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 02:04 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Operations Bringing Security to Afghanistan, Abizaid Says
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2004 – Military operations won't bring stability to
Afghanistan, the U.S. general in charge of operations in that region said
today. But such operations set the stage for ensuring the success of the Afghan
national government, which, in turn, will speed reconstruction and a return to
normalcy.

Army Gen. John Abizaid, commander of U.S. Central Command, which includes
operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, admitted today during a briefing with
Pentagon reporters that much work remains in Afghanistan, but he painted an
optimistic picture of the progress that's been made.

"Over time, this strategy to bring Afghanistan back into the responsible
community of nations … is one that I think is working," he said from his
command's forward-deployed headquarters in Qatar.

Abizaid summed up the coalition's goals in Afghanistan as: to conduct "robust
combat operations" around the country's border with Pakistan to defeat al
Qaeda, to destroy Taliban remnants and increase the presence of the Afghan
National Army throughout the country, to increase reconstruction efforts
through provincial reconstruction teams and further internationalize PRTs, and
to increase the capacity of the Afghan national government to control the
country's security.

He said he believes Afghan President Hamid Karzai is happy with progress within
Afghanistan so far.

The U.S. force level of 20,000 troops is higher than normal temporarily because
of increased offensive operations and scheduled unit rotations, Abizaid said.

U.S. Army forces have been conducting combat operations near the Pakistani
border to hunt down al Qaeda fighters believed to be operating in the lawless
border region. Abizaid said those forces are there "primarily to prevent the
escape of al Qaeda forces that are being pushed out of Pakistan as a result of
Pakistani operations."

U.S. Marine forces with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit are focusing their
efforts around Kandahar to defeat Taliban remnants.

These operations are yielding results, Abizaid said. "Despite many reports
whenever you see some notion of attacks in Kandahar, Kabul or elsewhere, the
situation is indeed under the control of coalition military forces," he said.
"And President Karzai extends the influence of his government on a daily
basis."

International support of efforts in Afghanistan is increasing, as well. About
2,000 international coalition troops are serving in Afghanistan, including a
Romanian infantry battalion and a French special-operations battalion, Abizaid
said.

Many other nations have provided reconstruction and support troops. Germany
maintains a PRT in Gardez, and Great Britain mans a similar team in Mazar-e
Sharif.

"It's our hope that, over time, NATO will take over more and more of the
northern PRTs in an effort to extend NATO command and control into the northern
regions," Abizaid said. He also noted that NATO forces run the International
Security Assistance Force in and around the country's capital of Kabul.

Abizaid briefly spoke about Army Spc. Pat Tillman, the former National Football
League player who enlisted in the Army two years ago and was killed in
Afghanistan April 22. During a visit to Afghanistan April 29, Abizaid said, he
spoke to an Army Ranger lieutenant, Tillman's platoon leader, who was injured
in the fight that killed Tillman.

"I asked (the lieutenant) yesterday how operations were going; I asked him
about Pat Tillman," Abizaid said. "He said, 'Pat Tillman was a great Ranger and
a great soldier, and what more can I say about him?'

"And I'd like to say that about every one of those young men and woman that are
fighting, not only in Afghanistan, but Iraq," the general continued. "These
soldiers are fighting hard. They're fighting well. They're fighting
courageously.

"And the only thing that lieutenant could say to me is that he needed to get
back in the field to his troops," Abizaid said.

Biography:
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Article:
Former Football Star Killed in
Afghanistan [/news/Apr2004/n04242004_200404241.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]
22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit [http://www.usmc.mil/22ndmeu/]
North Atlantic Treaty Organization
Committee [http://www.nato.int/]

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 02:41 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 392-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 30, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

Flag Officer Announcements

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld announced today that the
President has made the following nominations:

Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Nancy J. Lescavage has been nominated for
appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Lescavage is currently serving as
commander, Naval Medical Education and Training Command/director of the Nurse Corps,
Bethesda, Md.

Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Alan S. Thompson has been nominated for
appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Thompson is currently
serving as director, Supply, Ordnance and Logistics Operations Division, N41, Office
of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C.

Navy Capt. Mark W. Balmert has been nominated for appointment to the
grade of rear admiral (lower half). Balmert is currently serving as chief of staff
to the Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, San Diego, Calif.

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 02:42 PM

NEWS RELEASE from the United States Department of Defense

No. 390-04
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Apr 30, 2004
Media Contact: (703)697-5131
Public/Industry Contact: (703)428-0711

General Officer Assignments

The Chief of Staff, Army announces the assignment of the following
officers:

Major General Joseph G. Webb, Jr., Commanding General, Tripler Army
Medical Center/Pacific Regional Medical Command/Chief, United States Army Dental
Corps/United States Army Pacific Surgeon/Lead Agent, TRICARE Pacific, Honolulu,
Hawaii, to Deputy Surgeon General, United States Army/Chief of Staff, United States
Army Medical Command, Falls Church, Virginia.

Brigadier General Vincent E. Boles, Commanding General, 3d Corps
Support Command, United States Army Europe and Seventh Army, to Commanding General,
United States Army Ordnance Center/Commandant, United States Army Ordnance Schools,
Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.

Brigadier General Charles W. Fletcher, Jr., Assistant Deputy Chief
of Staff, G-4, United States Army, Washington, DC, to Commanding General, Military
Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, Alexandria, Virginia.

Brigadier General Kathleen M. Gainey, Commander, Defense
Distribution Center, Defense Logistics Agency, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, to
Director, Force Projection and Distribution, G-4, United States Army, Washington, DC.

Brigadier General Elder Granger, Commander, European Regional
Medical Command/Lead Agent, TRICARE Europe/Command Surgeon, United States Army
Europe and Seventh Army, Germany, to Commanding General, 44th Medical Command/Corps
Surgeon, XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Brigadier General Paul S. Izzo, Program Executive Officer,
Ammunition, Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey, to Commanding General, Picatinny Arsenal,
Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey. He will maintain his responsibilities as

Program Executive Officer, Ammunition.

Brigadier General Jerome Johnson, Director of Plans, Operations and
Readiness, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-4, United States Army, Washington,
DC, to Commanding General, United States Army Field Support Command, Rock Island,
Illinois.

Brigadier General William M. Lenaers, Commanding General, United
States Army Ordnance Center/Commandant, United States Army Ordnance Schools,
Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, to Commanding General, United States Army
Tank-automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Michigan.

Brigadier General Michael R. Mazzucchi, Program Executive Officer,
Command, Control, and Communications (Tactical), Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, to
Commanding General, United States Army Communications-Electronics Command and Fort
Monmouth, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. He will maintain his responsibilities as
Program Executive Officer, Command, Control, and Communications (Tactical).

Brigadier General James R. Moran, Program Executive Officer, Program
Executive Office Soldier, Fort Belvoir, Virginia, to Deputy Commanding General for
Operations, United States Army Research, Development and Engineering Command and
Commanding General, Soldier Systems Center, Natick, Massachusetts. He will maintain
his responsibilities as Program Executive Officer, Program Executive Office Soldier.

Brigadier General Timothy P. McHale, Assistant Chief of Staff,
C-4/J-4, United Nations Command/Combined Forces Command/United States Forces
Korea/Deputy Commanding General (Support), Eighth United States Army, Korea, to
Commanding General, 19th Theater Support Command, Eighth United States

Army, Korea.

Brigadier General Roger A. Nadeau, Program Executive Officer, Ground
Combat Systems, Warren, Michigan, to Deputy Commanding General, United States Army
Research, Development and Engineering Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.

Brigadier General George W. Weightman, Commanding General, 44th
Medical Command/Corps Surgeon, XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to
Commanding General/Commandant, United States Army Medical Department Center and
School, Fort Sam Houston, Texas.

Colonel Rebecca S. Halstead, Deputy Commanding General, 21st Theater
Support Command, United States Army Europe and Seventh Army, Germany, to Commanding
General, 3d Corps Support Command, United States Army Europe and Seventh Army,
Germany.

Colonel Carla G. Hawley-Bowland, Chief, Clinical Services Division,
United States Army Medical Command, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, to Commander, European
Regional Medical Command/Lead Agent, TRICARE Europe/Command Surgeon, United States
Army Europe and Seventh Army, Germany.

The assignments of Colonels Halstead and Hawley-Bowland should not
be construed as the Senate's consent of their promotion nomination, and there will
be no action to frock or promote them until Senate confirmation.

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 03:12 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: New Program Cuts Red Tape for Severely Disabled Soldiers
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2004 -- A new Army program will help severely disabled
soldiers and their families cut through red tape so they can more easily tap
into services available to them through the military and Department of Veterans
Affairs.

The Disabled Soldier Support System — DS3 for short — gives wounded soldiers an
additional way to seek out the help or information they need until they can
return to active duty or receive a medical retirement from the Army.

Acting Army Secretary Les Brownlee told Pentagon reporters today DS3 will help
"ensure that no soldiers fall through the cracks" as they recover from their
wounds and transition to the next stage of their lives and careers.

Brownlee said he hopes DS3 will serve as a pilot for the other military
services. In the meantime, he said the Army program will help all severely
disabled service members, regardless of the uniform they wear. "We won't turn
anybody down," he said.

Rather than introducing a new service, DS3 serves as a clearinghouse for host
of services already available through the Departments of Defense and Veterans
Affairs, Army officials explained. This gives disabled soldiers a single
starting point for help with their financial, administrative, medical,
vocational and other needs. It also helps them sort out the medical and
vocational entitlements and other benefits for which they qualify.

The program's Web site went live today, and program staff can be reached toll-
free at (800) 833-6622.

Anthony J. Principi, secretary of veterans affairs, said DS3 will eliminate any
barriers soldiers may encounter as they move from care and services provided by
the military to that provided by VA.

"I don't believe in red tape," Principi said. "If (soldiers come) to the
Veterans Administration, we're going to take care of them and we'll worry about
the paperwork later."

Of more than 12,000 soldiers who have been wounded or injured during Operations
Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, 198 are considered severely disabled,
meaning a medical board has determined that they have a 30 percent or greater
disability, Army officials explained. These disabilities may involve loss of a
limb or eye or paralysis.

Staff Sgt. Jerry Cortinas, a Special Forces soldier who lost his left hand and
has limited use of his right arm after being attacked by a rocket-propelled
grenade in Afghanistan, said DS3 helped him sort out the services available to
him. "I was basically lost," he said. "I didn't know what direction to start
walking to get the help I needed."

DS3 "supports the soldier 100 percent," Cortinas said. "This program is a
really positive thing to help our past, present and future soldiers," as well
as their families.

Rebecca Sides, wife of now-retired Sgt. James Sides, said the program helped
her through one of the most difficult times of her life. Her husband, a flight
medic with the 571st Medical Company, had just come out of a coma after a
helicopter crash that left him submerged in water. He still suffered the
aftereffects of brain bruises, a broken humerus, a collapsed lung, a stroke and
short-term memory problems.

The family lost its military housing and Sides' military income, leaving
Rebecca to carry the brunt of the burden to move the family to Wynne, Ark.,
find a new job and help the couple's two young boys adapt to their changing
circumstances. "This program offers us a place to go when we need help,"
Rebecca said.

Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Briscoe, a Special Forces soldier still being treated at
Walter Reed Army Medical Center for combat injuries he received in Iraq, said
he was particularly impressed that the DS3 staff sought him out — not the other
way around. "The top leadership came to me, the soldier, to ask if I had any
needs or concerns," said Briscoe, who lost the bottom half of his right arm and
received extensive injuries to his left arm in Iraq in October.

Briscoe said he plans to tap into the services offered by DS3 as he goes
through the medical board process. He hopes to be able to continue his military
service in some capacity for the next three years to serve out a full 20 years,
but acknowledges that "it's really good to know that DS3 will be there if I
have to transfer out."

Principi said the DS3 program will help repay, at least in part, the tremendous
debt the American people owe to its disabled soldiers.

"These soldiers have provided enormous service to the nation," agreed Brownlee.
"They may have lost a leg or arm or eye, but they haven't lost their spirit or
courage.

"And whether they leave or stay in the Army, they and their families know that
they remain a part of the Army."

Biography:
Acting Army
Secretary Les Brownlee [http://www.army.mil/leaders/leaders/usa/index.html]
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J.
Principi [http://www1.va.gov/opa/bios/index.cfm?template=Art_ArtInternet&id=29]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Sites:
Disabled Soldier Support System [http://www.ArmyDS3.org]
Department of Veterans Affairs [http://www.va.gov/]

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 03:49 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Officials Seeking New, 'Reliable' Leaders for Iraqi Units
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By Kathleen T. Rhem
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2004 – Stronger leaders are being sought for Iraqi law
enforcement and military units that haven't performed up to expectations, the
top U.S. general in the Middle East said today.

"I think the most important lesson that we've learned from this is we must have
reliable leadership all the way from the national level down to the level of
the lowest privates in these organizations," Army Gen. John Abizaid, commander
of U.S. Central Command, said today in Doha, Qatar.

Speaking via a video feed to reporters in the Pentagon, Abizaid acknowledged
that some elements of the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps and police and army forces
"were unable to perform their missions."

These units are now being "reconstituted, retrained and, to a certain extent,
re-equipped," he said. DoD has sent Army Maj. Gen. David Petraeus, who had
previously commanded the 101st Airborne Division during their combat duty in
Operation Iraqi Freedom, to oversee these efforts.

The most critical step will be finding leadership that is "reliable and loyal
to the Iraqi government and to the Iraqi people," Abizaid said.

"It's so important that they have a sense of fighting for their own country,"
the general said of the new Iraqi forces. "And it's so important that we give
them the opportunity to be trained and ready to stand up to the inevitable
pressure that they will come under as Iraq moves back to full independence and
sovereignty."

He also urged people not to discount the important progress forces are making.
Abizaid noted that since September, Iraqi forces who have died fighting for
their new government outnumber Americans who have died there.

"This is something that should not be lost on any of us," he said. "And while
it is difficult for them to stand up to some of the challenges and the
intimidation of former regime elements, it is, nevertheless, important for all
of us to understand that ultimately the battle for Iraq will be won by Iraqis."

Biographies:
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
Maj. Gen. David
Petraeus [http://www.campbell.army.mil/cgpage.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Article:
1st Marine Expeditionary Force
Creating 'Fallujah Brigade' [/news/Apr2004/n04302004_200404303.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]

Seoulstriker

04-30-2004, 04:30 PM

From: Press Service <afisnews_sender@DTIC.MIL>
Subject: Abizaid Warns Fallujah Brigade Results Won't Be Instant
To: DEFENSE-PRESS-SERVICE-L@DTIC.MIL
Precedence: list

By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2004 – The new Iraqi brigade being formed to restore
peace to Fallujah won't instantly solve the problems in the city, the commander
of U.S. Central Command said today from his forward headquarters in Qatar.

Army Gen. John Abizaid spoke with Pentagon reporters in a video teleconference.

"What we have there is an opportunity, and not necessarily an agreement," the
general said. "The opportunity is to build an Iraqi security force from former
elements of the army that will work under the command of coalition forces, that
will be mentored and worked next to by coalition forces.

"And I think that we should be very careful in thinking that this effort to
build this Iraqi capacity will necessarily calm down the situation in Fallujah
tonight or over the next several days."

Rather, he said, it's a step-by-step effort that will have to include a clear
understanding of the security situation.

"Clearly, there are certain things that we will not tolerate in Fallujah,"
Abizaid said. "We will not tolerate the presence of foreign fighters. We insist
that the heavy weapons come off the streets. We want the Marines to have
freedom of maneuver in Fallujah, along with Iraqi security forces and Iraqi
police."

Marines in and around the city are working hard with the people of Fallujah who
want to get their lives back to normal, he said.

"The Marines have been extremely forthcoming in holding their fire, in choosing
their targets, in trying to achieve a solution that's good for the good people
of Fallujah," he said. "And yet, at the same time, will take out the common
enemies that we share, which are the foreign fighters, the terrorists and
others that wish to destroy the peace process and the move to sovereignty in
Iraq."

Fugitive terrorist Musab al-Zarqawi has used Fallujah as a base of operations,
Abizaid said. A $10 million reward awaits the person who leads the coalition to
Zarqawi.

"I can't tell you that he's there now, but I can tell you that he has
personally been responsible for the killing of thousands of innocent Iraqi
citizens," the general said. "He's worked not only against the Shiia, but also
against the Sunni."

Abizaid called the notion that Fallujah will be a safe haven for Zarqawi
"absolutely unacceptable."

"Nor will we or our Iraqi partners allow foreign fighters to freely roam the
country and attack indiscriminately and use Iraqi civilians as shields from
which to conduct military operations," he added.

Although there's room for optimism, Abizaid said, the details of building an
Iraqi security capacity in Fallujah will take some time to work out.

"We need to have some patience," he said. "I think it's a possible
breakthrough, but certainly the conditions that must be met are foremost in our
minds, and that has to do with the restoring of law and order into Fallujah."

Catching up with the people who murdered and mutilated four American
contractors in Fallujah on March 31 remains "a non-negotiable objective," the
general said.

"I think it would be a stretch for you to say that they are in Fallujah. I
can't tell you that, nor can anybody else," he said. "We will get the murderers
of the contractors and we will find them, but we may not necessarily find them
in Fallujah."

Despite the hope offered by the program to put an Iraqi face on security in
Fallujah, Abizaid emphasized that coalition forces are ready to deal with
whatever might happen there.

"All military options with regard to Fallujah are on the table," he said. "And
I say they're on the table because I can't tell you what the enemy will do.
There is an enemy in Fallujah that has something to do with Zarqawi; it has
something to do with foreign fighters."

Even the best people in Iraq can't control the enemy, "and so we will have to
eliminate that enemy in a way that does not allow that force to challenge us
throughout Iraq and other places at other times," the general said. "No doubt
some of them will 'exfiltrate' out, and no doubt some of them will find other
means to escape, like any insurgent, or blend in with the population.

"But it may still be necessary to conduct very robust military operations in
Fallujah," he continued. "We hope we don't have to do that. We look for a
solution that allows Iraqis and Americans, together in a spirit of cooperation,
to regain control for the good people of Fallujah so they can get on with their
lives."

If terrorists, foreign fighters and Iraqi extremists refuse to take part in the
political process and lay down their arms, the coalition may have to take
strong military action. "And we're prepared to do that at a time and a place of
our choosing," Abizaid said.

Biography:
Gen. John Abizaid [http://www.centcom.mil/aboutus/cdrbio.htm]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Articles:
1st Marine Expeditionary Force
Creating 'Fallujah Brigade' [/news/Apr2004/n04302004_200404303.html]
Operations Bringing Security
to Afghanistan, Abizaid Says [/news/Apr2004/n04302004_200404305.html]
<spacer type=vertical size=5>

Related Site:
U.S. Central Command [http://www.centcom.mil/]