Today's Pics! Friday, August 7th, 2009

[Supplanter]

Pallbearers from Valcartier carry Canadian soldier, Cpl Christian Bobbitt from inside the CC-177 Globemaster III Aircraft to an awaiting hearse.
Canadian soldier, Cpl Christian Bobbitt, with the 5e Regiment du genie de combat, served as a member of the 2nd Battalion Royal 22e Regiment Battle Group based in Valcartier, Quebec.
Cpl Bobbitt and Sapper Allard returned to Canada aboard a CC-177 Globemaster III Aircraft. The two Canadian soldiers were killed as a result of an improvised explosive device detonating near a patrol in the Zhari District. The incident occurred approximately 15 kilometers west of Kandahar City at about 1530hrs, Kandahar time on August 1, 2009.
The commitment and sacrifice of our soldiers are helping to make a difference in the lives of the people of Kandahar Province. We will continue with our mission as we remember the lives of our fallen soldiers. We remain committed to working together with the people of Afghanistan to improve security and stability in Kandahar Province. Photo by MCpl Tom Trainor, 8 Wing Imaging, Trenton www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

Pallbearers from Valcartier carry Canadian soldier, Cpl Christian Bobbitt from inside the CC-177 Globemaster III Aircraft to an awaiting hearse. Photo by MCpl Tom Trainor, 8 Wing Imaging, Trenton www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

Pallbearers from Valcartier carry Canadian soldier, Cpl Christian Bobbitt from inside the CC-177 Globemaster III Aircraft to an awaiting hearse. Photo by MCpl Tom Trainor, 8 Wing Imaging, Trenton www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

Pallbearers from Valcartier carry Canadian soldier, Sapper Matthieu Allard from inside the CC-177 Globemaster III Aircraft to an awaiting hearse.
Canadian soldier, Sapper Matthieu Allard, with the 5e Regiment du genie de combat, served as a member of the 2nd Battalion Royal 22e Regiment Battle Group based in Valcartier, Quebec.
Cpl Bobbitt and Sapper Allard returned to Canada aboard a CC-177 Globemaster III Aircraft. The two Canadian soldiers were killed as a result of an improvised explosive device detonating near a patrol in the Zhari District. The incident occurred approximately 15 kilometers west of Kandahar City at about 1530hrs, Kandahar time on August 1, 2009.
The commitment and sacrifice of our soldiers are helping to make a difference in the lives of the people of Kandahar Province. We will continue with our mission as we remember the lives of our fallen soldiers. We remain committed to working together with the people of Afghanistan to improve security and stability in Kandahar Province. Photo by MCpl Tom Trainor, 8 Wing Imaging, Trenton www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

Pallbearers from Valcartier carry Canadian soldier, Sapper Matthieu Allard from inside the CC-177 Globemaster III Aircraft to an awaiting hearse. Photo by MCpl Tom Trainor, 8 Wing Imaging, Trenton www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

Pallbearers from Valcartier carry Canadian soldier, Sapper Matthieu Allard from inside the CC-177 Globemaster III Aircraft to an awaiting hearse. Photo by MCpl Tom Trainor, 8 Wing Imaging, Trenton www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

Italian Defence Attach Brigadier General Sanzio Bonotto (C) and the Personnel Support Program's (PSP) National Recreation Coordinator Ryan Cane (R) greet the Italian delegation to the 43rd World Swimming and Lifesaving Championships through the Pierre Elliot Trudeau airport in Montreal on the first day of the event taking place 5-14 August 2009.
The 43rd Annual Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) World Swimming and Lifesaving Championships were held in Montreal Quebec 5-14 August 2009. The competition had 175 athletes present representing 18 different countries. Swimming and Lifesaving events were held at Parc Jean Drapeau, with beach events taking place on the Ile Sainte Helene beach on the St Lawrence River.
The CISM event was hosted by the Canadian Director General Personnel Support Services' International Sports Section. Photo by Cpl Jasper Schwartz, event photographer. www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

Italian CISM swim team coach Paolo Pecoraro (L) meets with Brigadier General Sanzio Bonotto the Italian Defence AttachŽ to Canada in Montreal's Trudeau airport 5 August.
The 43rd Annual Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) World Swimming and Lifesaving Championships were held in Montreal Quebec 5-14 August 2009. The competition had 175 athletes present representing 18 different countries. Swimming and Lifesaving events were held at Parc Jean Drapeau, with beach events taking place on the Ile Sainte Helene beach on the St Lawrence River.
The CISM event was hosted by the Canadian Director General Personnel Support Services' International Sports Section. Photo by Cpl Jasper Schwartz, event photographer. www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

A casualty is recovered from a man overboard exercise.
Her Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Toronto is deployed from 29 July 2009 to 28 August 2009 on OP NANOOK.
The Canadian Forces (CF) conducts annual operations with other Federal and Territorial government departments (OGD) and agencies (OGA) to improve coordination in responding to emergencies in the north and make a visible demonstration of our commitment to exercising and defending Canada's sovereignty over the Arctic. OP NANOOK is comprised of both an exercise portion (EX NANOOK) as well as a real-world operational component. Photo credit: Corporal Dany Veillette, Canadian Forces Joint Imagery Centre, Ottawa. www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

Acting/Sub Lieutenant (A/SLt) J. Douglas points with the man overboard oar into the direction of the casualty during an exercise. Photo credit: Corporal Dany Veillette, Canadian Forces Joint Imagery Centre, Ottawa. www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

The (HMCS) Toronto departs St. John's, Newfoundland to Iqaluit, Nunavut. Photo credit: Corporal Dany Veillette, Canadian Forces Joint Imagery Centre, Ottawa. www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca hires

Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force 2 (MRTF2) Commanding Officer (CO) Lieutenant Colonel Peter Connolly (left) Australian Liaison Officer to the NL Provincial Reconstruction Team, Captain Nick Brown (center) and The Director of the Ministry of Rural Reconstruction and Development, Mr Mohamad Hashim, discuss the training of local Afagan students at the Trade Training School at Camp Holland, Tarin Kowt, Southern Afghanistan. www.defence.gov.au hires

Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force 2 (MRTF2) Commanding Officer (CO) Lieutenant Colonel Peter Connolly (center) and The Director of the Ministry of Rural Reconstruction and Development, Mr Mohamad Hashim (Right), discuss the training of local Afghan students with Officer Commanding (OC) Combat Engineers, Major Scott Davison at the Trade Training School in Camp Holland Tarin Kowt. www.defence.gov.au hires

Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force 2 (MRTF2) Trade Training School, Trade Instructor, Corporal Lyndon McDonald congratulates one of his most recent Afghan students on course completion, all students are presented with a certificate and a bag of work tools. www.defence.gov.au hires

Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force 2 (MRTF2) Trade Training School, Trade Instructor Corporal Luke "Spike" Milligan speaks with local contractors from the Tarin Kowt area after attending the most recent course of student graduate. www.defence.gov.au hires

Air to air imagery of a 75 Squadron F/A-18 Hornet over a Northern Territory landscape. www.defence.gov.au hires

Air to air imagery of a 75 Squadron F/A-18 Hornet over a Northern Territory landscape. www.defence.gov.au hires

Air to air imagery of a 75 Squadron F/A-18 Hornet over a Northern Territory landscape. www.defence.gov.au hires

Personnel from the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment serving with Timor-Leste Battle Group VI, form up at Camp Phoenix, Dili, to remember the Battle of The Samichon with their International Stabilisation Force colleagues in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

Timor-Leste Battle Group VI, Chaplain Damian Styles, reads a prayer during a service to remember the Battle of The Samichon. www.defence.gov.au hires

Timor-Leste Battle Group VI Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Dave Smith, addresses the soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment serving with Timor-Leste Battle Group VI, as they remember the Battle of The Samichon with their International Stabilisation Force colleagues in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

New Zealand Defence Force personnel, Captain Young and Deputy Commander International Stabilisation Force, Captain Burroughs, RNZN, on parade along with soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regimentt serving with Timor-Leste Battle Group VI, remember the Battle of The Samichon with their International Stabilisation Force colleagues during a service in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

Personnel from the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment serving with Timor-Leste Battle Group VI, remembered the 'Battle of The Samichon with their International Stabilisation Force colleagues in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

A piper plays a soldiers lament as personnel from the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment serving with Timor-Leste Battle Group VI, remember the Battle of The Samichon with their International Stabilisation Force colleagues in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

Tour de Force 16 entertainer, comedian Lawrence Mooney, shares a joke with soldiers serving with the International Stabilisation Force in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

Tour de Force 16 entertainer, comedian Jeff Green, shares a joke with soldiers serving with the International Stabilisation Force in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

Rock legend Ian Moss, drummer Peter Jones and Navy Band member Leading Seaman Grant Metcalfe rocks another Tour de Force 16 concert for International Stabilisation Force soldiers on deployment in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

Rock legend Ian Moss receives a traditional Tais from Commander of the International Stabilisation Force, Brigadier Bill Sowry, at the end of the final Tour de Force 16 soldiers' concert in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

Tour de Force 16 entertainers on stage at the end of their final concert for solders deployed with the International Stabilisation Force in East Timor.
(L-R) Grant Barron, Micheal Wilkinson, Jeff Green, Ian 'Dicko' Dickson, Lawrence Mooney, Mark Spano, Ian Moss and Peter Jones. www.defence.gov.au hires

Australian Idol Judge and Vega FM personality Ian 'Dicko' Dickson gives the thumbs up to the Commander of the International Stabilisation Force, Brigadier Bill Sowry, at the end of the final Tour de Force 16 concert in East Timor. www.defence.gov.au hires

Chief of Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston AC, AFC, launches the Defence Community Organisation DVD "Going Solo" at the Old Parliament House. www.defence.gov.au hires

Chief of Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston AC, AFC, Joan Gilbert, Manager of Education Policy and Special Needs for Defence Community Organisation (DCO) and Director General DCO, Mick Callan pose with cast members from the newly launched DVD "Going Solo". www.defence.gov.au hires

Three Bears pose for a group photo during the launch of the Defence Community Organisation DVD "Going Solo". www.defence.gov.au hires

The Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal (AIRMSHL) Mark Binskin and Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann witness the Terms of Reference at the Amberley Community Engagement Forum. www.defence.gov.au hires

Landed on the runway of Faya-Largeau. Chad: reconnaissance missions in the North(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Posé sur la piste de Faya-Largeau. Tchad : missions de reconnaissance dans le Nord

Mirage F1 in formation(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Mirage F1 en formation

Restoration of an aircraft(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Remise en œuvre d’un aéronef

The Transall implements personal and the technical(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Le Transall met en place personnels et lots techniques

Unloading the Transall(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Déchargement du Transall

Phase in-flight refueling(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Phase de ravitaillement en vol

Shura. Afghanistan: the organization of elections continues(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema La shura. Afghanistan : l’organisation des élections se poursuit

General Druart to the forum(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Le général Druart à la tribune

General Druart and General Zamrei welcoming the picket honor of the ANA(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Le général Druart et le général Zamrei saluant le piquet d'honneur de l'ANA

Preparation for the exercise to secure elections(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Préparation de l'exercice de sécurisation des élections

General Druart, commanding the RC-C(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Le général Druart, commandant le RC-C

Destruction of cluster munitions. Lebanon: recognition and remediation of routes(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/ema Destruction de sous-munitions. Liban : reconnaissance et dépollution d’itinéraires

Surrounded by the staff of the Air Force, he sees his material before board(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/air Entouré par le personnel de l'armée de l'air, il perçoit son matériel avant d'embarquer

Sean Diozéde attached prior to his flight(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/air Sean Diozéde s'attache avant d'effectuer son vol

Maxence Merel loads in turn(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/air Maxence Merel embarque à son tour

The lucky winners on an Epsilon(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/air Les heureux gagnants à bord d’un Epsilon

Joint Patrol: Alphajet presentation and Epsilon patrol Cartouche Doré(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/air Patrouille mixte : Alphajet de présentation et Epsilon de la patrouille Cartouche Doré

The godmother of the patrol Cartouche Doré, Nathalie Vincent, on an Epsilon(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/air La marraine de la patrouille Cartouche Doré, Nathalie Vincent, à bord d'un Epsilon

The season of meetings is in full swing(google translation) www.defense.gouv.fr/air La saison des meetings bat son plein

[Supplanter]

A helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City and a boat crew from Station Oregon Inlet prepare to perform a search and rescue demonstration as attendants from the 4th annual Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station American Heroes' Day gather, Thursday, August 6, 2009. The event also featured two boat displays from Station Oregon Inlet and Station Hatteras Inlet along with a Coast Guard Auxiliary boating safety booth. (U.S. Coast Guard photo/PA2 Nathan Henise) hires

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Thad Allen stands with Vice Adm. Clifford Pearson, Vice Adm. John Currier and Cmdr. Daniel McKay, Coast Guard Headquarters Chaplain, at the Coast Guard Chief of Staff Change of Command at Coast Guard Headquarters, Thursday, Aug. 6, 2009. (U.S. Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 3rd Class Victoria Bonk) hires

The Coast Guard Medal is shown at an award ceremony held for Petty Officer 1st Class Lavelas Luckey, an Electrician’s Mate at the Coast Guard Surface Forces Logistics Center in Baltimore, Wednesday, August 5, 2009, for saving a 5-year-old girl from an automobile accident March 4, 2009. The Coast Guard Medal was established August 4, 1949, and is presented to a servicemembers who distinguish themselves for extraordinary heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy. (Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandyn Hill) hires

United States Congressman Elijah Cummings (left), chairman of the House subcommittee on Coast Guard and maritime transportation, participates in the presentation of the Coast Guard Medal to Petty Officer 1st Class Lavelas Luckey during an official ceremony Wednesday, August 5, 2009, at the Coast Guard Surface Forces Logistics Center in Baltimore. Admiral Thad Allen, commandant of the Coast Guard, presents the Coast Guard Medal to Luckey for voluntary and extraordinary acts of heroism accomplished at the risk of one’s own life.
While driving to work March 4, 2009, Luckey rescued a 5-year-old girl from an automobile accident that claimed the life of her mother. The child was injured and trapped inside the crushed and smoldering vehicle. Luckey took action before emergency responders arrived as he struggled to free a jammed car seat and pulled the little girl to safety. Within two minutes of the rescue, the car’s fuel tank exploded, engulfing the automobile in flames.
“It is important that we recognize when our people do important things, and we are here to do that today for Petty Officer Luckey," said Allen. "We are very, very proud of you.”
“Far too often we look to the red carpets of Hollywood and our local football stadiums to find our heroes while overlooking the individuals who perform truly heroic actions in our own neighborhoods," said Cummings. "I take my hat off to Petty Officer Lavelas Luckey for his act of bravery. It is fitting today that we honor him.” (Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandyn Hill) hires

Petty Officer 1st Class Zachary Hagerman (RIGHT), of Granville, Vt., gives first aid training to the crew of Coast Guard Cutter Eagle on the messdeck of the ship Wednesday, August 5, 2009. Hagerman showed the crew how to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation along with a slideshow detailing how the crew should respond to and treat various injuries. (Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Etta Smith) hires

Petty Officer 2nd Class Chris Rochette (CENTER), of Alameda, Calif., shows swabs aboard Coast Guard Cutter Eagle different tools that can be used by first responders in a casualty onboard the ship Wednesday, August 5, 2009. When the cadets return to Eagle as upperclassmen, they will participate in simulated casualties where they will don firefighting equipment and use various damage-control tools. (Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Etta Smith) hires

Master Chief Petty Officer Lloyd Pierce, Command Master Chief Eighth Coast Guard District; Rear Adm. Mary Landry, Commanding Officer Eighth Coast Guard District; Junction Jack, Houston Astros mascot; Capt. Marcus Woodring, Capt. of the Port Sector Houston-Galveston; Kim Woodring, wife of Capt. Woodring, and Capt. James Whitehead, deputy Capt. of the Port, Sector Houston-Galveston celebrate Coast Guard Day at a Houston Astros game, Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009.
Rear Adm. Mary Landry, Commander of Eighth Coast Guard District, threw out the first pitch of the game. (U.S. Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 3rd Class Renee C. Aiello) hires

Petty Officer 3rd Class Luis Pincay, a food service specialist stationed aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf, adds the finishing touches to a birthday cake he made in honor of the Bertholf’s one year anniversary since commissioning. The ships commissioning date and the Coast Guard’s birthday fall on the same day. (Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 2nd Class Jetta H. Disco) hires

Rear Adm. Robin Braun, commanding officer, Navy Recruiting Command, left, speaks with Coast Guard Capt. Lori Mathieu, right, commanding officer, Coast Guard Recruiting Command, at the premiere of the Military Channel’s At Sea mini-series, held at the Navy Memorial. (U.S. Navy photo by Joseph P Cirone/Released) hires

Craftsman Anthony Lombardi of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers [Picture: via MOD] www.mod.uk
Craftsman Anthony Lombardi killed in Afghanistan
It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of Craftsman Anthony Lombardi of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME), attached to The Light Dragoons, in Afghanistan on Tuesday 4 August 2009.

The coffin of First World War Army veteran Harry Patch was borne into Wells Cathedral by six members of 1st Battalion The Rifles [Picture: Richard Watt MOD, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk
Britain's 'last Tommy' laid to rest
The last British veteran to have served in the First World War, Harry Patch, has been laid to rest at Wells Cathedral in Somerset today, Thursday 6 August 2009.

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall (centre) represented His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales at Harry Patch's funeral [Picture: Richard Watt MOD, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk

Family members, colleagues and friends of the Army Dog Unit soldiers laid wreaths in memory of those lives lost [Picture: PO Amanda Reynolds, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk
Memorial honours Northern Ireland's Army Dog Unit
A special memorial has been unveiled to commemorate the contribution to peace in Northern Ireland and the losses suffered by the Army Dog Unit based in the region.

Private Kerry Smith on patrol with 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters & Foresters) [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk
Big role for short soldier in Op PANTHER'S CLAW
Among the thousands of British troops involved in Operation PANTHER'S CLAW was a female combat medic who accompanied infantry soldiers into the heart of battle to provide life-saving treatment.

British and Afghan soldiers enter and search a village for Taliban forces during Operation PANTHER'S CLAW [Picture: Sgt Dan Harmer, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk

A Royal Air Force Chinook helicopter lands during a resupply of ground forces [Picture: Sgt Dan Harmer, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk

A home-made banner welcomes 63 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment home at a parade in Uxbridge [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk
63 Squadron return from Afghanistan to cheering public
After returning from Afghanistan on Saturday the men and women of 63 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment received a heroes' welcome as they paraded through their hometown of Uxbridge today, Wednesday 5 August 2009. Report by Tristan Kelly.

Members of 63 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment parade in Uxbridge [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk

Police estimate around 20,000 members of the public turned out to welcome 63 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment home [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk

B Flight, 63 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment, on patrol around Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal inspects the Guard of Honour during the annual Ceremonial Divisions at HMS Collingwood [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk
Princess presents Afghanistan medals to Navy personnel
Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal presented Royal Naval personnel with medals for their work in Afghanistan at HMS Collingwood last week.

Trainee Naval Airman (Survival Equipment) Emily Wood [Picture: LA(Phot) Darby Allen, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk
Dyslexic recruit supported by Navy
Supported by HMS Raleigh's learning difficulties tutors a 19-year-old Royal Naval recruit with dyslexia has recently completed her basic training, proving that the disability is not a barrier to achieving one's goals.

Members of the Royal Air Force Regiment's 63 Squadron march through the streets of Uxbridge, west London August 5, 2009. The Squadron has recently returned from a deployment in Afghanistan. Reuters

Children wave Union Jacks and Royal Air Force flags in front of members of the Royal Air Force Regiment's 63 Squadron, in Uxbridge, west London August 5, 2009. The Squadron has recently returned from a deployment in Afghanistan. Reuters

Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai, who is seeking a second term in the country's upcoming presidential election, greets supporters during an election rally in Kabul, August 7, 2009. The presidential election will be held on August 20. Reuters

Local policemen and soldiers gather next to a vehicle where five bodies and one head were found in the border city of Ciudad Juarez August 6, 2009. Mexican drug gangs are killing rivals in record numbers as troops struggle to contain violence in a setback for the government and a worry for U.S. President Barack Obama in his visit to Mexico. Severed heads, burned bodies, daylight shootouts and dead children are daily fare from Mexico's Caribbean to its desert border with the United States even as army generals pour green-clad soldiers and elite police onto city streets. Picture August 6, 2009. Reuters

A resident sits on a bucket as a military vehicle passes by in the border city of Ciudad Juarez August 5, 2009. Mexican drug gangs are killing rivals in record numbers as troops struggle to contain violence in a setback for the government and a worry for U.S. President Barack Obama in his visit to Mexico. Severed heads, burned bodies, daylight shootouts and dead children are daily fare from Mexico's Caribbean to its desert border with the United States even as army generals pour green-clad soldiers and elite police onto city streets. Picture August 5, 2009. Reuters

Soldiers and federal police gather on the perimeter of a crime scene in the border city of Ciudad Juarez August 5, 2009. Mexican drug gangs are killing rivals in record numbers as troops struggle to contain violence in a setback for the government and a worry for U.S. President Barack Obama in his visit to Mexico. Severed heads, burned bodies, daylight shootouts and dead children are daily fare from Mexico's Caribbean to its desert border with the United States even as army generals pour green-clad soldiers and elite police onto city streets. Picture August 5, 2009. Reuters

Colombia's President Alvaro Uribe (R) leaves the Uruguayan Presidential house after having a meeting with his Uruguayan counterpart Tabare Vazquez in Montevideo, August 6, 2009. Uribe is in Uruguay to explain Colombia's military pact with the United States. Reuters

An Iraqi policeman looks at a crater after a bomb attack in Baghdad, August 7, 2009. Roadside bombs exploded as minibuses carrying Shi'ite Muslims home from pilgrimage passed in Baghdad on Friday, killing five people and wounding 19, police said. Reuters

An Iraqi soldier checks the site of a bomb attack in Baghdad's Sadr city, August 7, 2009. Roadside bombs exploded as minibuses carrying Shi'ite Muslims home from pilgrimage passed in Baghdad on Friday, killing five people and wounding 19, police said. Reuters

A narcotics officer stands near about 1,786 kg of cocaine displayed at a police station in Panama City August 6, 2009. One Panamanian and four Mexicans were arrested at the entrance of the North Corridor with the cocaine. A total of 22,000 kg of illegal substance has been seized since January 2009, authorities said. Reuters

.....

Mariana Valente, Miss Canada 2009, poses for photographers at Atlantis on Paradise Island in this August 2, 2009 handout photo. Miss Universe 2009 will be crowned on August 23. Picture taken August 2, 2009. Reuters

Mayra Matos, Miss Puerto Rico 2009, poses for a photographer at Atlantis on Paradise Island in preparation for the the Miss Universe 2009 pageant in the Bahamas August 3, 2009. Miss Universe 2009 will be crowned on August 23. Picture taken August 3, 2009. Reuters

Emiri Miyasaka, Miss Japan 2009, poses for a photographer at Atlantis on Paradise Island in preparation for the the Miss Universe 2009 pageant in the Bahamas August 3, 2009. Miss Universe 2009 will be crowned on August 23. Picture taken August 3, 2009. Reuters

Renate Cerljen, Miss Sweden 2009, poses for a photographer at Atlantis on Paradise Island in preparation for the the Miss Universe 2009 pageant in the Bahamas August 4, 2009. Miss Universe 2009 will be crowned on August 23. Picture taken August 4, 2009. Reuters

Julia Dyment, Miss Israel 2009, poses for a photographer at Atlantis on Paradise Island in preparation for the Miss Universe 2009 pageant in the Bahamas August 4, 2009. Miss Universe 2009 will be crowned on August 23. Picture taken August 4, 2009. Reuters

Dominique Peltier, Miss Bolivia 2009, poses for a photographer at Atlantis on Paradise Island in preparation for the Miss Universe 2009 pageant in the Bahamas in this August 2, 2009 handout photo. Miss Universe 2009 will be crowned on August 23. Picture taken August 2, 2009. Reuters

Essi Poysti, Miss Finland 2009, poses for a photographer at Atlantis on Paradise Island in preparation for the Miss Universe 2009 pageant in the Bahamas in this August 2, 2009 handout photo. Miss Universe 2009 will be crowned on August 23. Picture taken August 2, 2009. Reuters

Kristen Dalton, Miss USA 2009, poses for a photographer at Atlantis on Paradise Island in preparation for the Miss Universe 2009 pageant in the Bahamas in this August 3, 2009 handout photo. Miss Universe 2009 will be crowned on August 23. Picture taken August 3, 2009. Reuters

[angra]

Air to air imagery of a 75 Squadron F/A-18 Hornet over a Northern Territory landscape

The Defence Department captioner doesn't recognise one of the state of Western Australia's most famous landscapes of Purnululu National Park and captioned it as the Northern Territory....... the other two images also look like Western Australia's Kimberley rather than the Northern Territory but are not us cut and dried as the unmistakable Purnululu Ranges

[bd popeye]

Outstanding start Supplanter! Great Fridays specials! Where ever did you get them??

I apologize for any re-post!


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A machine gunner fires an M-249 squad automatic weapon during a raid exercise in the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, Yuma, Ariz.., Aug. 2, 2009. The long-range helicopter raid was the last training evolution the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted during its second at-sea training period. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Scott Biscuiti

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Senior Airman Michael Cook operates the HD-1 remote entry robot July 29 at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. HD-1s are modeled robots, made by Remotech Andros, that assist in remote-entry situations and help keep danger at a distance. Airman Cook is a 27th Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal member. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class James Bell)

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An explosive ordnance disposal bomb suit hangs July 29 at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. The suit is made of Kevlar with metal plates and can protect a body from a blast within arms reach. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class James Bell)

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JOHN C. STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Miss. (Aug. 4, 2009) Romanian Chief of Staff Adm. Gheorge Marin and members of his staff ride in a special operations craft-riverine during a visit to the Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School. Marin is the Romanian military equivalent to the U.S. chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Kathryn Whittenberger/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 5, 2009) Gunner's Mates observe Midshipmen firing weapons a during weapon familiarization aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 are underway on a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class John Philip Wagner Jr./Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 5, 2009) Gunner's Mate 3rd Class Meghan Schnurr prepares .50 caliber ammunition for a live-fire exercise aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class John Philip Wagner, Jr./Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 5, 2009) An EA-6B Prowler from the Vikings of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Harry S. Truman is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daron Street/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 5, 2009) Aviation Machinist's Mate 2nd Class Gustavo Sandoval repositions a jet engine on an engine stand in the jet shop aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). N(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication 2nd Class Gregory A. Streit/Released)

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YOKOSUKA, Japan (Aug. 5, 2009) Chief petty officer selectees and their sponsors participate in a mock physical fitness assessment as part of chief petty officer induction at Fleet Activities Yokosuka. Chief petty officer induction prepares selectees to join the chief petty officer community, leading Sailors on the deckplate. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Andrew Smith/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 4, 2009) Naval Aircrewman (Mechanical) 3rd Class Dominic Neusbaum, left, trains with Engineman 3rd Class Bill Whitfield during oleo resin capsicum (OC) qualification aboard the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51). Oak Hill is transiting home after completing operations with Southern Partnership Station 2009. (U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Cory Torres/Released)

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SEATTLE (Aug. 3, 2009) Retired Navy SEAL, James Woods, and Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Issaiah Maring, assigned to the U.S. Navy parachute team, the "leap frogs", perform a bi-plane with their parachutes above Seattle before landing at the Seattle Seahawks Training Camp in Renton, Wash. The San Diego based team jumped at various events across the country to publicize the Navy SEAL Fitness Challenge, a free event designed to promote physical fitness among Americans. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Special Warfare Boat Operator J.C. Ledbetter/Released)

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RENTON, Wash. (Aug. 3, 2009) Chief Special Warfare Operator Justin Gauny, assigned to the U.S. Navy parachute team, the "leap frogs", flies an American flag above Seattle before landing at the Seattle Seahawks Training Camp in Renton, Wash. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Special Warfare Boat Operator J.C. Ledbetter/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (August 4, 2009) The guided-missile destroyer USS Sampson (DDG 102) is currently underway for a scheduled Pacific Deployment in support of Maritime Strategy. (U.S. Navy photos /Released)

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YOKOSUKA, Japan (Aug. 1, 2009) Japanese citizens watch as rescue swimmers assigned to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force put on a demonstration operating from the guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) during the 33rd annual Friendship Day celebration at Fleet Activities Yokosuka. Open base events like this help strengthen neighborly bonds and encourage friendship between Japanese citizens and the U.S. Navy community. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Andrew Smith/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 30, 2009) Marines assigned to Company F, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment fast rope from a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter onto the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Yukon (T-AO 202) during a maritime security operation boarding exercise. (U.S. Marine photo by Lance Cpl. Preston Reed/Released)

[bd popeye]

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NORFOLK (July 31, 2009) First lady Michelle Obama delivers remarks to Sailors and their families at Naval Station Norfolk during a homecoming celebration for the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group and the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jessica Pounds/Released)

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NORFOLK (Aug. 5, 2009) Information Systems Technician 1st Class Leonard Moore holds his six-month-old son during a homecoming celebration for the guided-missile frigate USS Kauffman (FFG 59). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie R. Matyascik) (Released)

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NORFOLK (Aug. 5, 2009) Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Michael Cao, assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Kauffman (FFG 59), holds his one-month-old daughter for the first time after returning from a deployment to Naval Station Norfolk after a four-month deployment. Kaufman deployed to Latin America and the Caribbean as part of Southern Seas 2009 supporting the U.S. Southern Command Partnership of the Americas strategy. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie R. Matyascik/Released)

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NORFOLK (July 29,2009) Lt. Ryan Harris embraces his newborn daughter during a homecoming celebration at Naval Air Station Oceana. VAW-121 completed a five-month deployment embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Leslie L. Tomaino/Released)

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NORFOLK (July 29, 2009) Rear Adm. Richard O'Hanlon, commander, Naval Air Force Altantic, greets Cmdr. Jake Ellzey, commanding officer of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, during a homecoming celebration at Naval Air Station Oceana. VFA-143 completed a five-month deployment embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication 2nd Class Wilyanna C. Harper/Released)

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CAMP UBAYDI, Iraq (Aug. 5, 2009) Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) the Honorable Ray Mabus addresses Sailors and Marines during a tour of Camp Ubaydi in Al Anbar Province. Mabus thanked the service members for their dedicated service and their significant role in preserving security and stability in the region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien/Released)

Checkout the sailors with ACUs...


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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Aug. 4, 2009) Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class Robert Lovett greets his wife and daughter after returning from a six-month deployment to Iraq with Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron 15. While in Iraq, the squadron supported logistical operations for special forces teams. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Rebecca Kruck/Released)

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Aug. 4, 2009) Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Chris Hamilton walks with his wife after coming home from a six-month deployment to Iraq with Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron 15. While in Iraq, the squadron supported logistical operations for special forces teams. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Rebecca Kruck/Released)

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KITSAP, Wash. (July 31, 2009) The tug Mitchell Herbert helps manuver the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Alabama (SSBN 731) to be moored alongside the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Maine (SSBN 741) at the Delta Pier on board Naval Base Kitsap. (U.S. Navy photograph by Ray Narimatsu/ Released)

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GULF OF ADEN (Aug. 3, 2009) Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) the Honorable Ray Mabus disembarks a CH-53 Sea Stallion on board the dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) for a ship tour. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Aug. 2, 2009) Chief of Navy Reserve Vice Adm. Dirk Debbink asks Cmdr. Brian Granger, commanding officer of Naval Reserve Deep Submergence Unit Detachment, and Chief Navy Diver Eric Taylor about the capabilities of the atmospheric diving system during a visit to the Deep Submergence Unit at Naval Air Station North Island. (U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ron Kuzlik/Released)

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KINGS BAY, Ga. (Aug. 5, 2009) Sailors aboard the guided-missile submarine USS Georgia (SSGN 729) wait for a storm to pass as the submarine prepares to get underway from Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga. for the first time since conversion from a ballistic missile submarine to a guided-missile submarine in 2008. (U.S. Navy photo Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kimberly Clifford/Released)

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U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet 1st Class Spencer Walker parachutes onto Stillman Field to open the Acceptance Parade Aug. 5 at the Academy in Colorado. The parade marks the official end of Basic Cadet Training and formally welcomes the new class into the cadet wing. (U.S. Air Force photo/Dave Ahlschwede)

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U.S. Air Force Academy, CO -- Under the arch of a late afternoon rainbow Jul 30 at the U.S. Air Force Academy, is B-52D "Diamond Lil." She's one of two B-52D's credited with a confirmed MIG kill during the Vietnam conflict. Flying out of U-Tapao Royal Thai Naval Airfield in southern Thailand, the crew of "Diamond Lil" shot down a MiG northeast of Hanoi during Operation LINEBACKER II on Christmas Eve, 1972. Diamond Lil was flown from 1957-1983 and ended its career with over 15,000 flying hours. U.S. Air Force Photo/Mike Kaplan

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Lance Cpl. Michael Bain, 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, quickly “button hooks” into a doorway to engage simulated targets at Range 1 near the Pohakuloa Training Area July 8. The training, practicing military operations in urban terrain, is part of Exercise Lava Viper. Lava Viper is part of 1/3’s predeployment training package.
Photo Date Taken: 7/8/2009
Unit: Marine Corps Base Hawaii
Photo ByLine: Sgt. Brian A. Tuthill

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Marines of 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, 1/3, spent much of their day July 8 training as pairs and four-man fire teams to make dynamic entries into doorways at the Range 1 "shoot house."
Photo Date Taken: 7/8/2009
Unit: Marine Corps Base Hawaii
Photo ByLine: Sgt. Brian A. Tuthill

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Maj. Jay Lappe, an operations officer with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, provides security during a road reconnaissance patrol in the Nawa district of Helmand province, Afghanistan, on Aug. 1, 2009. The Marines are trying to improve transportation for civilians and Afghan National Army soldiers by improving damaged roads and bridges. The Marines are deployed to support NATO's International Security Assistance Force and will participate in counter insurgency operations. They will train and mentor Afghan National Security Forces to improve security and stability in the country.
Photo Date Taken: 7/31/2009
Unit: Regimental Combat Team 3
Photo ByLine: SSgt William Greeson

[bd popeye]

Wait! There's more!!



This young woman needs a "samwige"

Miss Montenegro Anja Jovanovic tours the Humidor Cigar Factory as a police officer looks on in Nassau, Bahamas, Thursday, Aug. 6, 2009. Contestants from 85 countries will compete for the coveted crown of Miss Universe 2009 on August 23.

Police detain supporters of striking workers of Ssangyong Motor in front of an entrance of the automaker's plant in Pyeongtaek, about 70 km (40 miles) south of Seoul, August 6, 2009. Ssangyong Motor has agreed with union workers on a broad framework for mass layoffs to help the troubled carmaker revive its fortunes, local media reported on Thursday. Some 1,670 employees have already quit. But hundreds more refused to go, occupying the factory for 77 days, stopping production lines.

A relative kicks a police vehicle during a protest against the killing of Mehraj-u-Din Sheikh in Srinagar August 6, 2009. Protesters accused police of killing the Sheikh in their custody after arresting him, but police denied the charge and said Sheikh died in hospital after drinking liquor.

Pakistani villagers assemble in Qalagay in Pakistan's troubled Valley of Swat to form an anti-Taliban militia on Thursday, Aug 6, 2009. Village leaders in a former Taliban stronghold are rebuilding their own militia to protect the area from militants holding out in nearby hills after fleeing the Pakistani army's offensive last spring.

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DJIBOUTI (July 30, 2009) Members of the Djiboutian military form ranks before the arrival of Gen. William 'Kip' Ward, Commander, U.S. Africa Command, at the Port de Djibouti. Ward was in Djibouti to attend the establishment of a U.S. military harbor security force and to meet with service members assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jonathan Kulp/Released)

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SEATTLE, Wash. (July 29, 2009) The harbor tug Wenatchee (YTB-808) leads the Canadian Navy coastal defense vessels HMCS Nanaimo (MM 702) and the HMCS Brandon (MM 710) through Elliot Bay during the Parade of Ships for the 60th annual Seattle Seafair. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tucker M. Yates/Released)

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MUARA, Brunei (Aug. 4, 2009) Rear Adm. Nora Tyson, commander of Logistics Group Western Pacific, listens to Col. Haji Abdul Halim bin Haji Mohd Hanifah, commander of the Royal Brunei Navy, before the opening ceremony for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei 2009. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance the operational readiness of the participating forces. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bill Larned/Released)

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(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dustin Schalue/Released)


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BINTURAN, Brunei (Aug. 6, 2009) Royal Brunei Land Force medical personnel provide emergency medical treatment to U.S. Marines simulating mudslide victims during a humanitarian and disaster relief training scenario for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei 2009. (U.S. Navy photos by Lt. Mike Morley/Released)

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MUARA, Brunei (Aug. 5, 2009) U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Matthew Harris, from Clinton, Utah, directs personnel from the Royal Brunei Navy during a Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2009 visit, board, search and seizure training exercise aboard the guided-missile frigate USS Crommelin (FFG 37). CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance the operational readiness of the participating forces. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nancy C. diBenedetto/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Aug. 3, 2009) A Mauritius National Coast Guard Alouette-class III helicopter lands aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) during flight operations training. Arleigh Burke is participating in Africa Partnership Station, an international initiative to improve maritime safety and security on the continent of Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Gary Keen/Released)

Members of the Mexican Navy carry packages of cocaine for incineration at the naval base in Huatulco, state of Oaxaca, August 4, 2009. Some 7 tons of seized cocaine was incinerated.

Members of the Mexican Navy stand guard as packages of cocaine are incinerated at the naval base in Huatulco, in the state of Oaxaca, August 4, 2009. Some 7 tons of seized cocaine was incinerated.

WARNING GRAPHIC IMAGE!!

Forensic workers stand next to the slain body of a man at a crime scene in the border city of Ciudad Juarez August 4, 2009. Mexican drug gangs are killing rivals in record numbers as troops struggle to contain violence in a setback for the government and a worry for U.S. President Barack Obama in his visit to Mexico. Severed heads, burned bodies, daylight shootouts and dead children are daily fare from Mexico's Caribbean to its desert border with the United States even as army generals pour green-clad soldiers and elite police onto city streets. Picture taken August 4, 2009.

[VAMAN]

Nice pictures. Thanks for the efforts gentlemen. Babes are very good looking.

[Supplanter]

The Defence Department captioner doesn't recognise one of the state of Western Australia's most famous landscapes of Purnululu National Park and captioned it as the Northern Territory....... the other two images also look like Western Australia's Kimberley rather than the Northern Territory but are not us cut and dried as the unmistakable Purnululu Ranges

Here's the link to all the Hornet pics, maybe some of the others are over the Northern Territory.
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/down...0806/index.htm

Outstanding start Supplanter! Great Fridays specials! Where ever did you get them??

Great pics BD and thanks for the heads up on the spectacular Friday special pics

L to R, LAC Grant Robertson directs LAC Alex Morrison in the unloading of equipemt to assist Tonga ferry sinking. www.defence.gov.au hires

www.defence.gov.au hires

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www.defence.gov.au hires

www.defence.gov.au hires

Members of Airmovements Terminal load outboard motors ready for the ADF to assist Tonga in a ferry sinking. www.defence.gov.au hires

From left: Naval Airmen Tom and Elliott Mather and Seaman Specialist Courtney Mather [Picture: LA(Phot) David Hillhouse, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009] www.mod.uk
The Royal Navy's brothers-in-arms
The return of the amphibious assault ship HMS Ocean from deployment on the Royal Navy's TAURUS 09 Task Group this week marked many family reunions, including one for three Navy brothers.

One more

Miss Russia 2009 Sofia Rudyeva (L-R), Miss USA 2009 Kristen Dalton and Miss Serbia 2009 Dragana Atlija pose for photographer at Atlantis on Paradise Island in Bahamas in this undated handout photo. Eighty-five contestants for the Miss Universe 2009 pageant arrived in Bahamas on August 3 and the winner will be crowned on August 23. Reuters

[VAMAN]

Wait well now it's my turn to post.

[Eagle The Lightning]

Great pictures, RIP to the Canadian soldiers.

[VAMAN]

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An Afghan child looks on as military vehicles of 5th Striker Brigades drive past his village on the outskirts of Spin Boldak, about 100 kilometers (63 miles) southeast of Kandahar, Afghanistan,Thursday, Aug. 6, 2009. Thousands of U.S. troops are deploying in southern Afghanistan as part of an effort to prevent the Taliban from disrupting the country's Aug. 20 presidential ballot. (AP / Emilio Morenatti)

An Afghan policeman searches a resident outside of a community center in Chapadara, at the Pech Valley in Kunar province August 6, 2009. Afghanistan's presidential elections will be held on August 20. (Reuters)

Afghan youth Asad Ullah, 10, talks with Private First Class U.S. soldier, Ryan Hayes, from the 2-1 Infantry, 5th. Striker Brigades, as he guards a position in a village in the outskirts of Spin Boldak, about 100 kilometers (63 miles) southeast of Kandahar, Afghanistan, Thursday, Aug. 6, 2009. (AP / Emilio Morenatti)

Lit by the full moon, a U.S. soldier from Gator Company, 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade lights a cigarette at Michigan Base in the Pesh Valley in Afghanistan's Kunar Province August 5, 2009. (Reuters / Tim Wimborne)

Private U.S. soldier, Sanchez, from the 5th. Striker Brigades, is seen on his gunner station on top of an armored vehicle on his way to a military base in the outskirts of Spin Boldak, about 100 kilometers (63 miles) southeast of Kandahar, Afghanistan, Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009. (AP / Emilio Morenatti)

An Afghan soldier sleeps next to his weapon on the roof of a community centre in Chapadara, at the Pech Valley in Kunar Province August 6, 2009. Afghanistan's presidential elections will be held on August 20. (Reuters)

[He219]

Nice pix guys!
Happy Friday ..


Hires

U.S. Army Spc. Joshua Balhuizen uses an M-14 rifle to scan the hills surrounding the Nurgaram District Center while Afghan and alliance forces meet with key provincial election officials to discuss election security in Nuristan province, Afghanistan, Aug. 4, 2009. The nation’s second national election is scheduled for late August. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Matthew C. Moelle

Hires

Hires

SPACE SHUTTLE ENDEAVOUR (July 30, 2009) The Atmospheric Neutral Density Experiment 2 (ANDE-2) satellite suite designed by the Naval Research Laboratory is deployed from space shuttle Endeavour. The ANDE-2 suite consists of two spherical satellites to monitor atmospheric density and to improve methods for placing space objects in low Earth orbit. (Photo courtesy NASA/Released)

[Panchito12]

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Gunner's Mates are going to have a field day with the pic of this middie.

HUBBA, HUBBA!!!

The lovely Miss Sweden gets the MP.NET "Seal of Approval"

[Giarc]

RIP to the Fallen.

[He219]

A vehicle convoy made up of British forces and U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment leaves Patrol Base Jaker in the Nawa district of Helmand province, Afghanistan, Aug. 3, 2009. Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 3, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan are deployed to support NATO's International Security Assistance Force and will participate in counterinsurgency operations. They will train and mentor Afghan National Security Forces to improve security and stability in the country. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. John M. McCall/Released)