1. U.S. Division-North
Volume 1, Issue 35 Established in 1917 to honor those who serve July 1, 2011
Operation Iron Lion sweeps
Black Jack
Steadfast and Loyal
Ninewa province
LongKnife
Ironhorse
Devil
Fit for Any Test
Fit for Any Test
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Turner, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
Iraqi soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 10th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, bound toward a simulated enemy fortification during a live fire
exercise at Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center, Iraq, June 27, 2011. Throughout the month of June, Iraqi soldiers of 1st Battalion honed basic
warrior skills, studied squad and company-level tactics, and learned how to operate as part of a large-scale operation under the mentorship of
cavalry troopers assigned to 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division.
Iraqi Security Forces showcase ability to protect citizens, defend Iraq
Ironhorse
Devil
USD-N Public Affairs capabilities and the ability of said Perkins, a native of Keene, players driving a suspicious ve-
its units to work cohesively to N.H. hicle as part of the scenario.
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- defend Iraq. “It’s been a partnership the After eliminating the notion-
ING SITE MAREZ, Iraq – Fol- “I would like to see the whole way, and what we see is al threat, Iraqi Police conducted
lowing months of collective training become routine and this partnership will continue,” a crime scene investigation and
LongKnife
training with 4th Advise and part of their continued process Perkins said. police officers specializing in
Steadfast and Loyal
Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry to sustain their forces,” said The series of exercises in- crowd control proceeded to
Division, members of the Iraqi Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, cluded Iraqi Police, 3rd Federal contain a group of role-players
Security Forces conducted Op- U.S. Division – North and 4th Police, Iraqi Special Operation demonstrating against the ISF.
eration Iron Lion at Ghuzlani Infantry Division commanding Forces and Iraqi Army soldiers “It’s very gratifying to see
Warrior Training Center and general. showcasing skills for U.S. and that their security forces are
Ghuzlani Eagle Training Site,
BLack JAck
Years from now, the people Iraqi military leaders. firmly in charge of securing
Iraq, June 27. of Ninewa can look toward a Iraqi policemen assigned Ninewa province and continu-
Iron Lion is a capstone train- very peaceful and prosperous to 3rd Federal Police Division ing to build a professional
ing demonstration performed province based upon the secu- began the demonstration with military force,” said Col. Brian
at the provincial level to dem- rity achieved by the training an operation at Ghuzlani Eagle Winski, commander, 4th AAB,
onstrate Iraqi Security Forces’ between U.S. and Iraqi forces, Training Site, reacting to role- See LION, Pg. 3

2. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
“He is directly responsible for all water
distribution on the COS, and keeps me
informed of how much water needs to be
dropped each day.”
Each day, Kunz, a native of Dallas,
ensures the readiness of six water stor-
age units by purifying water for Soldiers
stationed at Fire Base Manila, as well
as distributing bottled water for service
members stationed at COS Warrior.
On average, Kunz makes 75 to 80
water drops a day, said Craig.
U.S. Army photo Kunz also assists with unloading each
Private 1st Class Keith Kunz, a supply specialist serving with Company B, 101st Brigade Sup- pallet of water from flatbed trucks, utiliz-
port Battalion, 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, supervises bottled ing forklifts and manual labor.
water distribution at Contingency Operating Site Warrior June, 28, 2011. Kunz ensures daily
distribution of water to COS Warrior and surrounding bases, keeping fellow Soldiers supplied,
“He also helps out with (distributing
and earning him the title of “Ironhorse Strong” Soldier of the Week. fuel) if needed,” said Craig. “Even though
his main responsibility is water, he jumps
No matter the job, every Soldier plays a diers stationed at Contingency Operating to help whenever he is needed.”
vital role during a deployment, whether in Site Warrior. Kunz maintains his motivation by
a line unit or supporting from behind the Kunz ensures water purification and conducting physical training on his own,
scenes. distributes more than 10,000 gallons of as well as keeping up with basic soldiering
Private 1st Class James Kunz, a supply water on a daily basis, ensuring Soldiers skills, which assist him in accomplishing
specialist assigned to Company B, 101st stationed at COS Warrior and outlying the mission, unit members said.
Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Advise and bases remain supplied with essential hy- Craig said Kunz needs little guidance
Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, giene capabilities. once given a task.
earned the title of U.S. Division – North “He’s the go-to guy in the section,” “I can give him a task and won’t have
“Ironhorse Strong” Soldier of the Week said Sgt. Christopher Craig, fuel and water to double down on him,” Craig said. “He’s
for providing potable water for U.S. Sol- supply sergeant, Company B, 101st BSB. reliable, without a doubt.”
Cavalry Soldiers honor Soldier leaves Iraq on own Mayor Cell keeps base KRG trains squad, ambush
fallen comrades terms, gains closure operational movement techniques at MTC
Page 4 Page 5 Page 8 Page 10
THE Ivy Leaf Task Force Ironhorse
Commanding General – Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins
The Ivy Leaf is an authorized publication for members of the
Command Sergeant Major – Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey
U.S. Army. Contents of The Ivy Leaf are not necessarily official
views of, or endorsed by the U.S. Government, Department of the
Army or the 4th Infantry Division. Everything advertised in this Task Force Ironhorse Public Affairs
publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage TF Ironhorse PAO – Lt. Col. Steve Wollman
without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, TF Ironhorse PA NCOIC – Master Sgt. Craig Zentkovich
marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other The Ivy Leaf Editor - Staff Sgt. Shawn Miller
non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. All editorial The Ivy Leaf Layout & Design – Sgt. Coltin Heller
content of The Ivy Leaf is prepared, edited, provided and approved
by the United States Division-North Public Affairs Office.
1st Advise and 2nd Advise and
Do you have a story to share? The Ivy Leaf welcomes submissions Assist Task Force Assist Brigade
from readers. Send to the USD-N PAO at usdnpao@usdn4id.army. 1st Infantry Division 1st Cavalry Division
mil. The Ivy Leaf reserves the right to edit submissions selected
for the paper. For further information on deadlines, questions or 4th Advise and
comments, email USD-N PAO or call DSN 318-849-0089. Assist Brigade
1st Cavalry Division
2

3. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
LION, Cont’d from Pg. 1
Sergeant Daniel Martinez,
Troop C, 1st Sqdn., 9th Cav.
Regt., said the live fire exercise
provided soldiers on the ground
and the gathered audience a
good example of what it takes
to maneuver on a battlefield
and accomplish a mission.
“It really is a spectacular
thing to see – hundreds of Iraqi
soldiers shooting, moving and
communicating,” said Marti-
nez, a native of Reno, Nev. “I
think it will really boost the es-
prit de corps of the Iraqi people
to see that their military can ac-
complish all of this.”
“The battalion live fire is a
very complex operation and
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Turner, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
they did it exceptionally well,”
After rescuing simulated hostages, Iraqi Special Operation Forces soldiers assigned to 7th Regional Com-
mando Battalion, 2nd Iraqi Army Division, bring a suspected criminal out of a building during Operation
said Winski. “‘Long Knife’
Iron Lion at Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center, in Ninewa province, Iraq, June 27, 2011. troopers will continue training
them to further enhance their
1st Cav. Div. Acting on information gath- platoon sergeant, Troop C, 1st capabilities.”
“As you look at the history ered in an intelligence report Sqdn., 9th Cav. Regt. “To this Long Knife Soldiers of 4th
of Iraq over the course of the compiled from the first training point they have all improved. AAB, 1st Cav. Div., are sched-
last eight years, there have been event, Iraqi Special Operation The soldiers have shown that uled to begin their seventh
some periods that were very Forces tactically moved down a they care about the training monthlong training cycle with
problematic in terms of the ca- dirt road, closing in on a build- they get, and I think they will a new group of Iraqi soldiers in
pabilities of the Iraqi Security ing suspected of holding no- do very well.” July.
Forces, but that is no longer the tional hostages. Moments later, Hayes, who hails from Nat- Following the live fire finale,
case,” said Winski. “This is our the group of specially trained chez, Miss., said he believes a ISF leaders representing each
main training effort – to help soldiers assigned to 7th Region- combination of in-depth train- of the participating units in Iron
the Iraqis achieve a foundation- al Commando Battalion, 2nd ing and solid leadership result- Lion answered questions from
al capability for defense against Iraqi Army Division, moved ed in an outstanding demon- the media regarding the demon-
external threats, which are por- inside, capturing the criminals stration for the senior U.S. and strations, and the future of Iraqi
trayed in these exercises.” and rescuing the hostages. Iraqi military leaders, and news Security Forces, during a press
Through extensive training At nearby Ghuzlani Warrior media representatives attending conference at Contingency Op-
and hard work, the ISF devel- Training Center, Iraqi Army the event. erating Site Diamondback.
oped a foundation to protect the leaders laid out a detailed ter- Iraqi soldiers were very ea- Iraqi leaders remain confi-
people of Ninewa, said Winski, rain map and briefed units for a ger to demonstrate their combat dent in Iraqi Security Forces’
a native of Milwaukee. battalion-level live fire exercise efficiency to their senior leader- improved ability to secure the
Leading to the training ex- to culminate Iron Lion. ship and the Iraqi people, said area and the future of Iraq,
ercise, Soldiers assigned to 5th Iraqi soldiers of 1st Bn., 1st Sgt. Ali, 1st Bn., 10th Bde., said Iraqi Brig. Gen. Khalid
Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery 10th Bde., 3rd IA Div., spent 3rd IA Div. Sa’adon, public affairs officer ,
Regiment, 4th AAB, trained the month leading up to Iron “My men are well trained Ninewa Operations Center.
Iraqi federal policemen to con- Lion conducting Tadreeb al and ready,” said Ali. “The Sa’adon said tactics taught
duct urban operations, check- Shamil, Arabic for All Inclu- (U.S.) forces have helped us by U.S. Soldiers will enable
point procedures and tactics to sive Training. greatly when it comes to how Iraqi Security Forces to protect
increase proficiency in combat- Troops studied basic infan- to conduct training. We want to Iraq from any future attacks
ing terrorists and criminals. try operations under the direct prove that we are proficient and they may face.
Using tactics improved upon mentorship of cavalry troopers ready for the security mission “We conducted this exer-
from previous training events, assigned to 1st Squadron, 9th in Iraq.” cise to show the whole world
the federal policemen conduct- Cavalry Division, 4th AAB. Using infantry ground units that we have coordination be-
ed a hasty raid to apprehend “When this unit started their and mortar crews, 1st Battalion tween the ISF,” said Sa’adon.
“terrorists” who fired a simu- training, I’d say they started out assaulted three separate loca- “We would like to show to the
lated rocket-propelled grenade doing a really good job,” said tions of “terrorist cells” in the people everywhere that the ISF
at a checkpoint. Sgt. 1st Class Kenneth Hayes, hills of GWTC. is one hand helping each other.”
3

4. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
Cavalry Soldiers honor
fallen comrades
Sgt. Quentin Johnson Soldiers and friends sional and caring of his Sol- remembered his jovial spirit.
2nd AAB Public Affairs grieved, shared memories, diers. “Above all else, I’ll re-
1st Cav Div., USD-N and celebrated the lives of “(Proctor) cared for his member Staff Sgt. Proctor’s
Proctor and Johnson during Soldiers 24 hours a day, sev- sense of humor,” said Boyer.
CONTINGENCY OPER- the ceremony, said Chap- en days a week,” said Capt. “He could make you laugh.
ATING SITE COBRA, Iraq lain (Capt.) Andy Jenks, 4th Andrew Eagen, commander, You wouldn’t believe his
– The sound of taps echoed Sqdn., 9th Cav. Regt. Troop C. wit.”
through the dining facility at “This is the day we have Caring for his Soldiers “He would light up any
Contingency Operating Site been given to honor our fall- was half of what made Proc- room or situation with his wit
Cobra, Iraq, as “Black Jack” en brothers,” said Jenks. tor a great noncommissioned and humor,” said Eagen.
Soldiers of 2nd Advise and Lieutenant Colonel Paul officer, he said. Comrades remembered
Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Garcia, commander, 4th “Staff Sgt. Proctor was Johnson’s sense of humor as
Division, reflected on memo- Sqdn., 9th Cav. Regt., asked the epitome of an NCO in my well.
ries of two fallen comrades, Soldiers to honor Proctor and mind,” said Eagen. “He was “(Johnson’s) platoon
June 28. Johnson because of the im- an NCO that knew what right would also say that he was
Staff Sergeant Russell pact they left on the squad- looked like and lived it each somewhat of a goof … al-
Proctor, 25, from Oroville, ron. day.” ways cracking jokes and
Calif., and Pfc. Dylan John- “His loss is deep, but his “Staff Sgt. Proctor set the trying to keep it light,” said
son, 20, a native of Tulsa, impact on the young troop- example for every Soldier Garcia.
Okla., both of Troop C, 4th ers of this squadron for gen- who knew him,” said 1st Lt. Johnson’s sense of humor
Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regt., erations to come will be last- Christopher Boyer, a platoon was so unique, he even had
2nd AAB, died from injuries ing,” Garcia said of Proctor. leader with Troop C. “On the a facial expression known
sustained while conducting Garcia said Soldiers in job, he had tactical insight to his fellow Soldiers as the
operations in support of Op- Proctor’s platoon thought that I still envy.” “Johnson” face, said Pfc.
eration New Dawn in Diyala Proctor was tough when In addition to Proctor’s Anthony Santiago, a Pollock
province, June 26. needed, but always profes- leadership skills, friends also See HONOR, Pg. 6
4

5. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
Soldier leaves Iraq on own terms, gains closure
Sgt. Coltin Heller
109th MPAD
USD-N Public Affairs
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE
SPEICHER, Iraq – In the eye of the Sol-
dier’s mind, one thing is often focused on
most – home. Many Soldiers enjoy that
dream becoming reality after the long
months of a deployment. For some, the
trip home is overshadowed by wounds sus-
tained during the deployment.
Retired Army Sgt. Kurtis Edelman and
several other wounded troops returned to
Iraq during Operation Proper Exit and wit-
nessed changes in the country during a tour
of U.S. Division – North, June 28.
Operation Proper Exit, a program cre-
ated by the Troops First Foundation, pro-
vides wounded service members closure
by returning them to where they served
during their deployments and enabling
them to leave on their own terms.
Edelman suffered a traumatic brain in-
jury from an improvised explosive device
while deployed as an infantryman with
Company C, 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry
Regiment, 172nd Stryker Brigade, during
a mission in Baghdad in 2006.
“I don’t remember what happened,”
said Edelman, who calls Bountiful, Utah
home. “I was out on mission one minute,
and in a hospital the next.”
The 172nd Stryker Brigade, stationed in
Grafenwoehr, Germany, served a 16-month
deployment, one of the longest during Op-
eration Iraqi Freedom, from August 2005
to December 2006. Soldiers assigned to the
unit patrolled areas around Mosul in north-
ern Iraq before transferring to Baghdad U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Coltin Heller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
near the end of the tour. Retired Army Sgt. Kurtis Edelman, pets Rose, a 4th Infantry Division therapy dog, while talk-
Edelman returned home to his wife of ing with Soldiers at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, during Operating Proper Exit,
June 28, 2011. U.S. Division – North Soldiers talked with Edelman and several other wounded
10 years and three children, suffering from warriors during the visit. Operation Proper Exit provides wounded service members the chance
severe post traumatic stress disorder as a to return to where they received their injuries, leave on their own terms, and gain closure.
result of his injury.
“I didn’t know what exactly what was said. connaissance unit designed to observe, de-
going on at first,” recalled Edelman. “I Edelman volunteered for Operation tect, identify and neutralize enemy threats
would see Soldiers and (enemies) walking Proper Exit to return and see the changes to Soldiers on the ground.
down the street, and when I would look made in Iraq since he left abruptly in 2006. “It was great to see the guys on the
again they would be gone.” “It was surreal as I was getting closer. I ground have this type of support. I know if
Edelman said, at the time, he did not feel a real sense of closure now,” he said. I was here now, I would feel safer,” he said.
know that it was his body dealing with the “It feels like I’m coming home all over After touring Task Force ODIN, the
stress. again, being able to leave in good terms.” wounded warriors stopped in at the U.S.
“I would also hear voices, both of my While visiting Contingency Operating Division – North Comprehensive Soldier
friends and enemies whispering to me. It Base Speicher, Edelman and his compan- Fitness Center for lunch. During lunch,
was wearing me and my Family out,” he ions toured Task Force ODIN, an aerial re- See EXIT, Pg. 7
5

6. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
Engineers remove bridge in Kirkuk province
Sgt. David Strayer
109th MPAD
USD-N Public Affairs
KIRKUK, Iraq – Soldiers of
74th Multi-role Bridge Com-
pany, 36th Engineer Brigade,
along with support from Com-
pany C, 1st Special Troops Bat-
talion, 1st Advise and Assist
Task Force, 1st Infantry Divi-
sion, recovered a temporary
bridge from southern Kirkuk
province, Iraq, June 20.
Soldiers emplaced the
bridge early in Operation Iraqi U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David Strayer, 109th MPAD, USD-N
Freedom to allow freedom of Soldiers of 74th Multi-role Bridge Company, 36th Engineer Brigade, use a front-end loading excavation
movement for U.S. and Iraqi vehicle to pick up pieces of a temporary Wolverine bridge in southern Kirkuk province, June 20, 2011. En-
forces throughout southern ar- gineers removed the temporary bridge and loaded the pieces for shipment back to the U.S.
eas of the province. unit, and must be recovered so tasked to remove would usually the two halves together,” said
Soldiers of 15th Brigade, it can be used for training. have a vehicle that is meant to Solla.
12th Iraqi Army Division, who Because Soldiers from 74th offload and emplace the bridge, “We then chained the bridge
now use permanent bridges Multi-role Bridge Company did as well as remove and reload to the bucket of our front-end
several kilometers down the not have the Wolverine vehicle the bridge.” loader, and emplaced large roll-
river from the removed bridge, system necessary to remove Without the Wolverine ve- ers to stabilize the 6,000-pound
attended the operation to wit- the bridge, the engineers had to hicle designed to emplace and piece of the bridge, as the front-
ness the removal of the U.S. improvise a plan to efficiently remove this particular bridge end loader served to counter-
Wolverine bridge system. dismantle and take away the system, the engineers devised balance the opposite end of the
Unlike many bridges em- bridge. a hasty plan to accomplish the bridge that was suspended over
placed by U.S. forces and do- “This was not your typi- mission, relying on ingenuity the river during the removal
nated to local governments dur- cal bridge removal mission,” and their engineering expertise process,” he added.
ing Operation Iraqi Freedom said Capt. Miguel Solla, com- to get the job done, Solla said. After removing and disman-
and Operation New Dawn, the mander, 74th Multi-role Bridge “To accomplish the mission, tling the bridge, engineers load-
Wolverine bridge is a piece of Company. “The Wolverine we separated the bridge by dis- ed the pieces for shipment and
equipment accountable to a bridge system that we were connecting the trusses that keep return to the U.S.
HONOR, Cont’d from Pg. 4
Pines, Calif., native, and cavalry scout with footprints within their unit, said Eagen, and
Troop C. they will be remembered as Soldiers and
Santiago said it was a facial expression individuals.
that never failed to bring a smile to Sol- “As we memorialize them today, each
diers’ faces. will be missed in a different way because
Unit members said humor was part of of their different experiences, but both will
Johnson’s life, and so was being a Soldier. be remembered for their impacts as men,”
“Johnson was known as one of the hard- said Eagen.
est workers in White Platoon,” said Garcia. Jenks reminded everyone to rejoice in
“He was kind, always willing to lend a the privilege of knowing them both.
helping hand,” said Eagen. “We rejoice not in the loss we feel, but
Johnson’s kindness and hard work in the friendship we had with these men,”
brought a sense of unity within the platoon, said Jenks. “While we rejoice, we also
said Egan. grieve. We grieve for our loss.”
U.S. Army photo “He instantly became a sort of glue Jenks said grief is a demonstration of
The portraits of Staff Sgt. Russell Proctor, 25, amongst the Soldiers in White Platoon.” love, and Proctor and Johnson’s love for
and Pfc. Dylan Johnson, 20, cavalry scouts “He impacted my life in a way that no their fellow Soldiers builds hope.
with Troop C, 4th Sqdn, 9th Cav. Regt., 2nd
AAB., 1st Cav Div., are displayed during a me-
one ever has,” said Santiago about John- “They served their nation and their
morial ceremony at Contingency Operating son. “I loved him as if he is my own blood.” Families to bring hope – a hope for free-
Site Cobra, Iraq, June 28, 2011. Both Proctor and Johnson left great dom and a hope for tomorrow,” Jenks said.
6

7. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
Iraqi soldiers learn howitzer basics at GETS
Spc. Angel Turner the long-range weapon system.
4th AAB Public Affairs During the training, U.S.
1st Cav. Div., USD-N Soldiers provided Iraqi field
artillerymen the opportunity to
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- prepare the howitzer with mini-
ING SITE MAREZ, Iraq – Sol- mum U.S. coaching.
diers of 102nd Field Artillery “Our goal is that they will
Regiment, 2nd Iraqi Army Di- be able to successfully fire
vision, conducted emplacement rounds and do it on their own,”
and displacement procedures said Wells, a native of Bedford,
training on the M198 155mm Iowa. “These soldiers are the
howitzer at Ghuzlani Eagle future of artillery. When they
Training Site, Iraq, June 28. are done here, they will take
Field artillerymen assigned their knowledge and pass it
to Battery B, 5th Battalion, on.”
82nd Field Artillery Regiment, Iraqi Army soldiers are pre-
4th Advise and Assist Brigade, paring to apply all the funda-
1st Cavalry Division, advised mentals taught by U.S. forces
and assisted Iraqi soldiers to ef- during a live fire exercise
fectively use the howitzers. scheduled for next month.
Working as a section, the “Getting more experience
Iraqi field artillery soldiers re- on this equipment will improve
hearsed the steps necessary to their Army,” said Sgt. Leopoldo
ready the howitzer to provide Bejarano, a field artilleryman
indirect fire support. from Odessa, Texas assigned to
“Field artillery is a major 5th Bn., 82nd FA Regt.
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Angel Turner, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
component in the Army,” said “We are providing hands-on
Sergeant Kelvin George, a field artilleryman assigned to 5th Battalion,
Staff Sgt. Walter Wells, a field training to these soldiers,” Be- 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cav-
artillery section chief from Bat- jarano added. “We are starting alry Division, assists Iraqi soldiers assigned to 102nd Field Artillery
tery B, 5th Bn., 82nd FA Regt. at the basic level and gradually Regiment, 2nd Iraqi Army Division, as they learn emplacement and
Wells said the Iraqi trainees advancing so they can learn and displacement procedures with an M198 155mm howitzer at Ghuzlani
Eagle Training Site, Iraq, June 28, 2011. George, a native of Los An-
will now be capable of effec- better themselves as field artil- geles, taught Iraqi soldiers fundamentals of operating the howitzer to
tively engaging enemies with lerymen.” increase the soldiers’ proficiency as field artillerymen.
EXIT, Cont’d from Pg. 5
Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, commanding “We’re all glad to have you here to wit- AAB before the aerial tour and imparted
general of U.S. Division – North and 4th ness the changes that have been made,” his knowledge and experiences on living
Infantry Division, presented each one with said Overstreet before the flight. with PTSD.
a division coin and certificate of apprecia- “It was awesome,” said Edelman breath- “There is a stigma with PTSD – that it’s
tion. lessly after the flight. “The country is thriv- better to be labeled as an alcoholic than
“It’s great to have all of you here,” said ing, crops are growing; there’s more green someone who has PTSD. Medicating your-
Perkins to the guests. “You are what it than the last time.” self with alcohol is not the answer,” said
means to persevere. If anyone wants to see The tour flew over several sections of Edelman to his former 172nd troopers.
the embodiment of strength, these warriors Mosul, showcasing the growing infrastruc- “We all learned to be professional Sol-
are it.” ture of the city. diers, and I used that mindset when I re-
The wounded warriors then separated “A lot of the places were little more than turned home. I learned to be a professional
into different aircraft, flying to the areas rubble, the last time. Now you see new civilian,” he said to the Soldiers.
where they once served. houses and roads,” said Edelman. Overstreet advised his troopers to heed
Edelman flew to Contingency Operating Edelman said the best things he saw the words of the wounded warriors, and
Sire Marez, the 172nd Stryker Brigade’s were the families. take from them any advice offered.
area of responsibility during his deploy- “I saw families walking, acting as nor- Edelman also thanked the Soldiers in
ment, where Command Sgt. Maj. Antoine mal people should. Kids were playing in the room, asking them to pass on a message
Overstreet, senior enlisted advisor of 4th yards and by the river. You didn’t see any to all service members.
Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Di- of that the last time,” he added. “I am so grateful to come back here and
vision, welcomed the wounded warriors, Edelman met with former 172nd Stryk- see the guys are continuing the legacy we
providing a fly over of the city of Mosul. er Brigade Soldiers now serving with 4th started,” Edelman said.
7

8. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
Mayor Cell
keeps base
operational
Sgt. Justin Naylor
2nd AAB Public Affairs
1st Cav. Div., USD-N
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE
WARHORSE, Iraq – Keeping a base run-
ning smoothly in a deployed environment
presents a variety of challenges.
From having water delivered to troop
living quarters to coordinating contractors
to fix air conditioners in offices throughout U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Justin Naylor, 2nd AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div., USD-N
the base, there are numerous jobs big and Sergeant Jennifer Peterson, a native of Miami, and Pfc. Juan Patrick, from Dallas, both commu-
nication specialists with 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, fill out work or-
small conducted regularly to ensure units der requests at the Mayor Cell on Contingency Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq, June 20, 2011.
on base remain operational.
Filling this role on Contingency Op- der to have a light bulb fixed outside their the base remains operational.
erating Base Warhorse is the Mayor Cell, room, or requesting pallets of water to be “They’ve done wonderfully,” said Pe-
comprised of nearly a dozen Soldiers from dropped off at an office. terson.
2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, “Black There is always something, said Sgt. “There is never a dull moment,” said
Jack,” 1st Cavalry Division, U.S. Division- Jennifer Peterson, a Miami native and com- Pfc. Juan Patrick, a Dallas native and com-
North, deployed in support of Operation munication specialist with 2nd AAB. munication specialist with 2nd AAB.
New Dawn. “It’s a very high operational tempo,” she Patrick, currently on his second deploy-
The Mayor Cell is responsible for nu- said. ment, works daily as an escort for local na-
merous base functions including facilitat- For Peterson, one of the biggest surpris- tional workers.
ing living accommodations for visitors, es of working at the Mayor Cell is seeing Patrick said this position helps him ex-
acting as intermediaries between units and how well her Soldiers, nearly all of whom perience an unfamiliar people and culture.
contracting agencies, coordinating work come from differing career fields and mili- “This is my first time working with local
for local national employees, and filling out tary backgrounds, work together to ensure nationals,” he said. “This isn’t something
work requests for Soldiers and units, said every communication Soldier gets to ex-
Staff Sgt. Sherrod Nevels, an automated perience. I have a lot of fun,” Patrick ex-
logistical specialist who currently fills the plained.
role of Mayor Cell noncommissioned of- Whether the job is large or small, Sol-
ficer in charge. diers of 2nd AAB rely on the Mayor Cell
The Mayor Cell is also responsible for daily to get any number of tasks done,
65 to 70 local national workers who work which helps keep Soldiers at COB War-
on the base every day, explained Nevels, a horse mission-ready.
Tampa, Fla., native.
Local nationals help keep the base clean, Specialist Eric Custer, right, a Westcliffe,
pick up excess scrap metal and wood, and Colo., native and a combat engineer with 2nd
Advise and Assist Brigade, “Black Jack,” 1st
also help clear out and shut down unused Cavalry Division, U.S. Division-North, and
buildings and tents, he added. Pfc. Juan Patrick, a Dallas native and com-
“This cuts the manpower requirements munication specialist with 2nd AAB, work
for the units by hiring local nationals who together to fix an air conditioning unit on
Contingency Operating Base Warhorse, Iraq,
can do a lot of the work,” said Nevels. June 21, 2011. Both Soldiers work in the COB
The Mayor Cell also helps fill out and Warhorse Mayor Cell, which is responsible
facilitate the completion of nearly 200 for numerous base functions including fa-
work orders per week. cilitating living accommodations for visitors,
acting as intermediaries between units and
Between 70 and 90 people walk through contracting agencies, coordinating work for
the Mayor Cell doors every day in need local national employees, and filling out work
of help, whether it is filling out a work or- U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Justin Naylor, 2nd AAB PAO requests for Soldiers and units.
8

9. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
Service members and civilans enjoy a rock show per-
formed by Hoobastank at Contingency Operating Base
Speicher, Iraq, June 25, 2011. Lead singer Doug Robb
encouraged particapation from the crowd during the
hour-long show, inviting them closer to the stage, and
to sing lines to some of the band’s hit songs such as
“Running Away,” and “Crawling in the Dark.” The band
stopped at several bases in Iraq and Kuwait, providing
a time for service members to relax from daily duties.
U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Coltin Heller, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
9

10. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
Kurdish Regional Guard trains squad,
ambush movement tactics at MTC
Sgt. David Strayer
109th MPAD
USD-N Public Affairs
MANILA TRAINING CENTER, Iraq –
Squads of 1st Kurdish Regional Guard Bri-
gade soldiers conducted ambush and move-
ment training at Manila Training Center in
Kirkuk province, Iraq, June 23.
Halfway through a four-week training
cycle, U.S. Division – North Soldiers of 1st
Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry
Division, evaluated the performance of the
students and the Iraqi instructors leading
the tactical and technical classes.
Each training lane at MTC requires sol-
diers to build on skills from previous class-
es, progressing from individual and buddy
team movements to platoon and company-
level tactics.
“We usually start with the classroom
stuff,” said Staff Sgt. David Benoit, Battery U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David Strayer, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO
A, 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery Regi- Members of 1st Kurdish Regional Guard Brigade bound forward into the prone position during
ment, 1st AATF. “We continue to build on a squad ambush training exercise at the Manila Training Center in Kirkuk province, Iraq, June
23, 2011. Each training lane at MTC requires soldiers to build on skills from previous classes,
our teaching so that they can get to the point progressing from individual and buddy team movements to platoon and company-level tactics.
where they are able to go out and execute
the more complex movements and employ ment and react to contact and ambush,” Soldiers of Battery A attend each train-
the more complex concepts.” said 1st Sgt. Jared Muse, senior enlisted ing event to provide overwatch and assis-
Having already completed dry fire and leader of Battery A. “This training will help tance as requested, but leave actual teach-
live fire training on how to move on an en- these guys out tremendously; it will teach ing duties and leading of the Kurdish troops
emy objective in buddy team and fire team them how to tactically move as a squad and to Iraqi instructors.
elements, the KRGB trainees progressed to either egress … from a larger enemy force, “The fact that the Manila Training Cen-
higher level movements. or go in for the kill in the event that they get ter cadre are the ones that are facilitating
“The training today was squad move- enemy contact.” and conducting all of the training here is
great for us,” said Muse. “It gives us the
leeway that we need to continue to our role
as advisors while these guys continue to
sustain their own training.”
Muse said the progression of the train-
ing helps fulfill the goal of U.S. forces as
Operation New Dawn continues.
Muse concluded, “This really is very
close to the end-state that we want to see
– the local security forces sustaining their
own training and conducting their own
missions without needing us at all.”
Members of 1st Kurdish Regional Guard Bri-
gade position themselves on line before as-
saulting an objective during squad ambush
training at the Manila Training Center, Kirkuk
province, Iraq, June 23, 2011. Each squad
broke up into an overwatch team, support-by-
fire team, and assault team – running the lane
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David Strayer, 109th MPAD, USD-N PAO in the same way that U.S. forces train.
10

11. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
EO Rep acts as ‘The Voice of the Soldier’
Spc. Kandi Huggins cur, which is a primary duty of
1st AATF Public Affairs an EOA.
1st Inf. Div., USD-N “I attack issues at any
level, and I must be forthright
CONTINGENCY OPERAT- and tactful in doing so,” said
ING SITE WARRIOR, Iraq – Haynes. “I learned to pay at-
For one noncommissioned of- tention to detail really well as
ficer deployed to Contingency a drill sergeant and I’ve found
Operating Site Warrior, Iraq, that attribute to help as I’ve
creating a support system for continued my service in the
Soldiers in need is one more Army.”
way of fulfilling his mission. Staff Sergeant Christopher
Sergeant 1st Class Nathan Cruse, a PSD section leader
Haynes, an equal opportunity who works with Haynes, said
advisor with 1st Advise and he admires Haynes’ knowledge
Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry in promoting the EO climate
Division, said he acts as the and helping Soldiers and
“voice of the Soldier,” speak- commanders mature in that
ing on their behalf regarding environment.
issues troops face involving “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed
discrimination or harassment. learning a lot from Haynes,”
“My primary job is to said the Phoenix, Ariz., na-
be the eyes and ears for the tive. “Because no two people
brigade commander, mak- are the same, it’s important
ing him aware of any issues to recognize the difference
within the brigade whether it’s and similarities we have, as
discriminatory, sexual harass- individuals, and find common
ment, leadership, or human causes in acknowledging those
resource issues,” said Haynes, differences.”
a Galesburg, Ill., native. “My Aside from the knowledge
secondary mission is to take U.S. Army photo by Spc. Kandi Huggins, 1st AATF PAO, 1st Inf. Div., USD-N
gained from working under
care of the Soldiers and keep Sergeant 1st Class Nathan Haynes, an equal opportunity advisor Haynes, Cruse said he sees
an eye on the climate of the assigned to 1st Advise and Assist Task Force, 1st Infantry Division, Haynes as a valuable asset to
brigade. I interact a lot with hosts an equal opportunity leaders conference at Contingency Oper- his section whenever Haynes
the people here, making sure ating Site Warrior, Iraq, June 15, 2011. Haynes updated equal oppor- goes on missions with them.
tunity leaders on policies and procedures regarding the EO program
things such as work areas are so they may better assist Soldiers deployed to U.S. Division – North. “EOA is a two-year tour,
clean and remain a healthy and when he’s done, he will
environment.” get things done.” One experience Haynes go back to his duties and job
Because there is no rule Adams, a native of Law- credits to helping him as an before he became an EOA,”
book that covers how to handle rence, Kan., said he replicated EOA is the three years he said Cruse. “It’s important for
each specific situation that a lot of Haynes’ techniques served as a drill sergeant at him to maintain his knowledge
arises, Haynes said he must to aid in his own professional Fort Benning, Ga. as an infantryman and to stay
rely on training and previous development. “As a drill sergeant, I was up-to-date on his warrior tasks
experience. “We were in charge of able to interact with people,” and drills.”
“I’ve known Haynes for maintaining the health and he said. “Being busy all the Haynes said he encourages
about three years from our welfare of 39 Soldiers and time and on a schedule, I people to not only understand
time as platoon sergeants,” fostering them into leaders,” had to be precise in how I themselves, but also under-
said Sgt. 1st Class Adam Ad- said Adams. “Haynes worked dealt with people – in being stand the people around them
ams, personal security detail well with the Soldiers and they resourceful, and in utilizing to help foster good order, disci-
platoon sergeant, 1st AATF, 1st genuinely respected him as a the potential of every Soldier pline, leadership and respect.
Inf. Div. “A lot of the junior strong leader.” in order to make the team “I hope Soldiers learn to
platoon sergeants looked to Haynes said he faces prob- stronger.” take care of each other and
him for guidance because he lems that arise from any level Haynes said his experiences how to handle situations as
was seasoned with a wealth of and hopes Soldiers know he is taught him how to deal with they arise with dignity and
knowledge and knew how to available for them. problems as soon as they oc- respect,” said Haynes.
11

12. The Ivy Leaf July 1, 2011
Chaplain’s Corner:
Making a big deal out of little things
Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Keith Goode siliency. Adjusting your attitudes will help you deal with genuine
Chaplain, USD-N difficulties by seeing things as they really are.
We read in Philippians 4:6-7 this encouragement concerning
Think about what bothers you most while you are in Iraq. Is our attitude – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every-
it that small rock that trips you walking home each night, the thing, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your
iPod battery that goes dead ten minutes into your workout, or just requests to God.”
missing the shuttle bus? This verse is a great reminder about how we should approach
Or is it forgetting to pick up your laundry before 7 p.m., re- the “ankle-biters” that bother us each day. From God’s eternal
membering your forgotten common access card while standing at point of view, it is ALL small stuff!
the dining facility entrance, or a roommate that snores? We should not be frustrated or worried about anything, big or
Why is it that those little things bother us so much as we try to small, but instead take each thing we face during the day to God
live a “normal” life here? There is probably a small mountain’s in prayer. We are called in this passage to depend on this big God
worth of gravel scattered around our base, so why get upset over who can certainly take care of our little troubles.
the one small stone that we trip over? Talking to God about our frustrations and loneliness, disap-
There are TVs within earshot of every exercise machine in pointments and difficulties, are exactly the kind of prayers that
the gym, so why be frustrated over a dead battery? Will any of us we can expect to find help and hope from the Lord, and for that
actually starve to death as we take our “trip of shame” to retrieve we can be thankful.
the CAC from the computer? Will wearing a dirty uniform one Learning to live life with God’s perspective, we will soon be
more day do us in? Will the shuttle bus be back, could the walk laughing at the gravel and the forgotten CAC card – well, okay –
do us some good, and are the chances better than average that it will still be easier to laugh at the other guy that forgot the CAC,
someone will give us a ride anyway? but you get the idea.
As far as the roommates … well, that is another story! Better yet, we will each be able to move through the final
No, seriously, all of these things fall into the same category – months of this deployment with a much healthier outlook and go
small stuff. Richard Carlson wrote in his book, “Don’t Sweat the home with a newfound wisdom that knows the difference.
Small Stuff,” that the way we react to life reflects who we are on
the inside.
Losing sight of what is truly important in the big picture of
life, we tend to overreact to all the little things around us. This
lack of perspective leaves us living in a perpetual “emergency”
state of mind.
We are tensed up over every little thing, meaning we are no
longer able to discern between “big” and “small.” Consequently,
we become stuck, seeing life as one big disaster waiting to hap-
pen.
The worst effect of that viewpoint is that should a true emer-
gency occur, we are left with modest emotional strength to handle
the crisis. Already stretched thin by life’s little things, we break
down at that critical moment. So how do we adjust our reactions
to the little things in life?
Ironhorse Forward
A good place to start is with this prayer by Reinhold Niebuhr,
known as the Serenity Prayer:
“God, grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change; To see all the latest videos of news and
courage to change the things I can; events happening in U.S. Division –
and wisdom to know the difference.” North, check out the first edition of “Iron-
Train your expectations to react appropriately to the events
you face each day. Rocks will always be a bother, but what are horse Forward,” a biweekly news broad-
those compared to life and death? cast on our YouTube page.
A difficult roommate may make for a long deployment,
but what is that compared to being in the hands of the enemy,
restrained to solitary confinement and without hope of rescue? www.youtube.com/the4id
Keeping your perspective through the day will build up your re-
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