Sunday, July 31, 2005

Photo for the Day- July 31, 2005






TEXAS HOMECOMING
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Rick Bouwhuis, 37th Security Forces Squadron, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, is embraced by his wife and two sons upon his return from an eight-month deployment to Iraq, July 10, 2005. Complements of DoD.
USAF photo by Robbin Cresswell.

Who’s at War-

Who’s at war- The American people or the Military by itself???
The way I see it… Way too many Americans are doing nothing more than fighting over the things that have come and gone with this war on terror. ARM CHAIR GENERALS we have so many of these days. Sorry… But there has never, ever been a single Monday Morning Quarterback win the first game, nor has there ever been one single ARM CHAIR GENERAL or Retired General as far as that goes win a single Battle on the Field or win any War in all of history…… So my answer to the question would have to be-- The Military… and the loved ones who support them. (Just ask any REAL Soldier…)

President Musharraf of Pakistan launches crackdown on extremists

Many students at madrassas, or religious schools, along with the hard-line Islamist Politicians in Pakistan are very upset with Musharraf who this past Friday said 1,400 foreign students, at madrassas, must leave the country...........

Now-- Many of you might disagree with me but I for one like President Pervez Musharraf. This article at: BBC NEWS is a good example of the man and his own personal war on terror. You got to give it to the man… He has been the target of several assassination attacks within his own country and every day has to walk a fine line between helping the west and appeasing his fellow countrymen.

Oh yes… Musharraf most certainly has a drum bet of his own, with this war on terror and his words are so often unheard by the west. We just don’t listen… Figure that!!! I also think that no man, or women, can change the thinking of an entire country over night. President Pervez Musharraf is most certainly no different. I’ll end by saying President Musharraf surely has his hands full, but at least to me, he seems to be trying to do his best under the circumstances.
AubreyJ.....................

Saturday, July 30, 2005

Photo for the Day- July 30, 2005


U.S. Army Sgt. Tavarance Jones, 2nd Battalion, 70th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, keeps watch atop his Bradley fighting vehicle during a search for vehicle borne improvised explosive devices in Mushada, Iraq on July 16, 2005. USAF photo by Tech. Sgt. Russell E. Cooley IV. Complements of MNF-Iraq

A way of life to which we’ve grown accustomed…

"Securing our cyber systems is critical not only to ensure a way of life to which we’ve grown accustomed, but more importantly to protect the vast infrastructure these systems support and operate.”
Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff
July 28, 2005

Friday, July 29, 2005

Why I post DoD Casualty Reports

Back on Friday June17, 2005… I did this post that goes as follows:

If President Bush should break the Law
If President Bush wanted to break the Law for any reason, I would have to wish he would do so by doing this… SPAM!!! Yep… I said spam. He should make DoD spam every E-Mail account owned by a US citizen and spam it with-- The Department of Defense News Releases, (that seem to come several a day these days,) on US War Casualties.Here’s why I would wish this. In the news media today, they seem to be more concerned on the numbers of dead, (to make some point of view,) NOT on the people who just died. I’m sorry but that’s JUST SO WRONG!!! When is the last time you saw a major news company report-- “Today____ died on____ Date... from_____.” You haven’t. Some reason that person died for their country protecting us and yet their name will not be mention for nothing. I guess that’s not important enough to bring up these days. Just the numbers, make a point, make the news…… From this day forward-- AubreyJ.org shall post these Dod News Releases for I believe we all should take a moment and remember our dead as we learn about them. Hell-- These are people... NOT NUMBERS............. With this said I take a moment to shed a tear and post my first DoD Casualty News Release on this site..............

And I’ll keep Posting them until they stop coming in...
God I hope that’s soon..............

AubreyJ...........

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 777-05 Jul 29, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pvt. Ernesto R. Guerra, 20, of Long Beach, Calif. , died July 29 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained on July 28 in Baghdad, Iraq, when his HMMWV was involved in an accident. Guerra was assigned to the Army's 4-3rd Brigade Troops Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 776-05 Jul 29, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Edward L. Myers, 21, of St. Joseph, Mo. , died July 27 in Samarra, Iraq, where his unit was conducting patrol operations and an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Myers was assigned to the Army's 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

No. 774-05 Jul 29, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Christopher P. Lyons, 24, of Shelby, Ohio, died July 28 when his unit came under attack by enemy small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades while conducting combat operations in Cykla, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team-2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force. Media with questions about this Marine can call the Marine Forces Reserve Public Affairs Office at (504) 678-4178.

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

No. 775-05 Jul 29, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on July 24, in Baghdad, Iraq, where an improvised explosive device detonated near their HMMWV while they were on patrol. The soldiers were assigned to the Army National Guard's 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment, 48th Infantry Brigade, Albany, Ga.
Killed were:
Spc. Jacques E. Brunson, 30
, of Americus, Ga.
Staff Sgt. Carl R. Fuller, 44, of Covington, Ga.
Sgt. James O. Kinlow, 35, of Thomson, Ga.
Sgt. John F. Thomas, 33, of Valdosta, Ga.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

American service members have died protecting the rights of Muslims

“American service members have died protecting the rights of Muslims in Kuwait, Bosnia and Kosovo… Terrorists have embraced the ideology of violent extremism by their own choice… No one is making them do it…They're doing it because they want to create chaos and to undermine our way to life."
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice
July 28, 2005

Photo for the Day- July 29, 2005

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment, 256th Brigade Combat Team, enter a house in search of four insurgents that earlier attacked Iraqi Army Soldiers. The team is conducting a cordon-and-search mission with the Iraqi Army in Baghdad, Iraq.
USAF photo by Staff Sgt. Jorge A. Rodriguez. July 2005

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

No. 773-05 Jul 29, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Andre L. Williams, 23, of Galloway, Ohio, died July 28, when his unit came under attack by enemy small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades while conducting combat operations in Cykla Village, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Columbus, Ohio. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team-2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.
Media with questions about this Marine can call the Marine Forces Reserve Public Affairs Office at (504) 678-4178.

Typical day on the Ground by a simple soldier named Smith

A must read for those of you wanting to know what really is going on over in Iraq. Turn off the news- put down that paper or magazine and read the truth for once… I would ask for you to go to JACK ARMY Blog first so he can set you up for a great read… (Hat tip on this post to JACK ARMY- Thanks.)
CLICK here to go to: Jack Army
or click here for: “Typical day on the ground” by Smith
(It will change your thinking…)
AubreyJ……………………………………

Anti-War Protesters- It’s time for you to Cut and Run

Next month the truth will finally start to come out and lay to rest these supposed Bush/Blair Lies… I will say THAT ONE, one more time. Next month the truth will finally start coming out and a lot of you BLOW HARDS better start looking for new Careers and Political ones probably best not be one of them either. Yes sir… We are going to hold you accountable for all your past political, false rhetoric on this war. The Gig is fixing to be up boys and girls!!!! Most all those troublesome questions will finally be answered. And those on the left will not like to hear the truth for it will most certainly go against their anti-war arguments on this Bush/Blair Lied crap… Why do I say all of this is fixing to go down you ask??? It’s simple.......

The trial date for Saddam Hussein is expected to be announced within the next few days by the Special Tribunal in Iraq and that date for trial is most likely sometime next month. Oh the things the American people will learn, coming out of these trials will be beyond their wildest dreams... President Bush, Tony Blair and our good friend Australian PM John Howard will come from this and the trials to follow, Standing Shoulder to Shoulder and the world will look at them from a new prospective for once. A new admiration for these men will soon be forthcoming. They will be seen as great men for what they truly are, and be blessed for leading us through these horrific times of worldly troubles… This is my take of the upcoming events and I find myself to be rarely wrong on these kinds of matters. Wait and see- just wait and see…. The time of Truth is near..............
AubreyJ............................................

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 772-05 Jul 29, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Capt. Benjamin D. Jansky, 28, of Oshkosh, Wis. , died July 27 in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, where his HMMWV was accidentally struck by another military vehicle. Janksy was assigned to the Army Reserve's 983rd Engineer Battalion, Monclova, Ohio.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Thursday, July 28, 2005

Three Days of Official Negotiations with North Korea have now passed

I just don’t understand it… We’ve had three days now of what looks like very constructive joint, six-party negotiations going on with North Korea and there has been very little press on it. (Some- but not much!)

Now you would think with all the hell raising the left has been giving Bush over the last few years for… NO ACTION- being a Bully and all that other crap, that now that something just might be getting done… it would be TOP NEWS... 24-7!!! But NOOOO…… Very-- very little Press on this one… Go figure............
AubreyJ...........................................

Photo for the Day- July 28, 2005


Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld looks over Iraq from an HH-60 Pavehawk helicopter on July 27, 2005. Rumsfeld met with senior Iraqi and U.S. officials during an unannounced visit to Baghdad, Iraq, where he urged Iraqis to finish their draft constitution. DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Kevin J. Gruenwald, USAF.

How about a little slideshow I did on Sec Rumsfeld called: "All them Faces- Sec Rumsfeld"... DSL/Cable internet connection works best for this slide. Hope you enjoy!!!
Click here to view-- RUMMY.

Insurgents Killed, some Captured in Afghanistan

Afghan and U. S. forces killed three insurgents and captured 15 others in combat west of Tarin Kowt in Afghanistan's Oruzgan province today, U. S. military officials reported.

Two Afghan soldiers suffered minor injuries in the firefight and were transported to a nearby military base for treatment, officials said. Afghan and U. S. forces returned fire when their joint patrol was hit by small-arms fire from an unknown number of enemy combatants. They are searching the area for more enemy forces. Coalition attack aircraft responded to the scene and provided close air support.

"This incident occurred in the same area where we are presently building a road for the Afghan people, a road that will become an artery for commerce," said U. S. Army Lt. Col. Jerry O'Hara, spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force 76. "This enemy is only concerned about killing and has no concern for the well-being of the Afghan people. Those who chose to stand against the government of Afghanistan, in the wake of the government's offer of reconciliation, do so at considerable risk. "

Afghan and U. S. forces were conducting operations to deny the enemy safe havens in the area of the attack. Officials are questioning the 15 individuals detained.

Above taken from DoD: American Forces Press Service Release.
(Compiled from a Combined Forces Command Afghanistan news release.)

Wednesday, July 27, 2005

Photo for the Day- July 27, 2005


An Iraqi Army Soldier conducts a thorough search and identification check of all vehicles at a tactical control point during Operation Scimitar near Al-Radwnea, Iraq on July 12, 2005. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Reynaldo Ramon. Complements of Multi-National Force-Iraq.

Like here at home- Iraq too needs to talk Border Issues with its neighbors.

Iraq needs to step up its efforts to communicate with its neighbors and come up with some plan to stop these foreign terrorist from coming over the boarders and causing so much havoc and death in Iraq. Iraq, Iran and Syria have been talking of late but I’m afraid that’s about all that’s going to come out of it-- TALK... It’s time for all sides to get down and do more than just talking and getting face time from their local Press. Like how about taking some action on the issues at hand-- that would be a good starter!!!

It’s up to Iran and Syria to do their part in helping to stop this infiltration by the terrorist. They must stop harboring and financing these terrorist… They must stop allowing their boarders to be revolving doors for these murderers and allowing their wicked deeds to be launched from within their boarders…

Not to much longer from now Iraq will be able to stand up on its on two feet and police its on country. If by then Iran, but mostly Syria, can not find it within themselves to take care of their responsibilities to the world community we the US and whom ever else we can get to help, will most likely have to go over those boarders and do a little house cleaning.

We as a country and the World Community as a whole can no longer let these countries harbor and finance these terrorist as we have been doing so for the last few years. President Bush himself needs to back up his on words, ("Over time it's going to be important for nations to know they will be held accountable for inactivity…You're either with us or against us in the fight against terror.") and start getting this war on behind us. What say you???

Troop Withdrawals Could Begin Next Year

A fairly substantial withdrawal of U. S. forces from Iraq could take place next spring or summer if the insurgency doesn't grow and the country's political process continues as scheduled, so says U. S. Army Gen. George W. Casey, head of Multinational Force Iraq. Casey spoke during a surprise visit to Iraq by Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld today… Read more at DoD: American Forces Press Service

Statement from Secretary Rumsfeld

Statement from Secretary Rumsfeld Regarding the Death of Four Boy Scout Leaders at Fort A. P. Hill

I offer my condolences to the families of the victims of Monday's accidentat the
Boy Scout Jamboree... Scouting has a special place in American society, and the
Defense Department's relationship with the scouts is long-standing and enduring.
The jamboree is a wonderful celebration of that tradition and of that
relationship... My thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this
terrible accident, and with the Boy Scouts of America at this time of loss.
I wish to also offer my condolences to the families of the victims of Monday's Jamboree accident... Read more on accident at: CNN.com

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 762-05 July27, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Michael W. Schafer, 25, of Spring Hill, Fla. , died July 25 in Oruzgan, Afghanistan, when he was shot by enemy forces while on a quick reaction force mission. Schafer was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, Vicenza, Italy.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Tuesday, July 26, 2005

John Bolton- Remember Him???

The White House seems to be signaling that President Bush is now ready to bypass Congress and go ahead and appoint John Bolton as Ambassador to the UN. This could happen as early as this Friday when all those good old politicians up there on Capital Hill go on their scheduled recess for this August. We shall see for this was also rumored back during 4th of July and nothing came of it… (My bet is on Bush doing it this time but what do I know!!!)

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 761-05 July26, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Adam J. Harting, 21, of Portage, Ind. , died July 25 in Samarra, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his Bradley Fighting Vehicle. Harting was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 42nd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 759-05 July26, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Christopher J. Taylor, 22, of Opelika, Ala. , died July 24 in Balad, Iraq, when he was hit by mortar rounds while he was exiting a bunker. Taylor was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Air Force Officers MIA From Vietnam War are Identified

No. 757-05 July26, 2005
DoD (DPMO) Identifies U. S. servicemen, missing in action from the Vietnam War.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today the remains of two servicemen, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and are being returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

They are:
Col. James W. Lewis of Marshall, Texas, and
Maj. Arthur D. Baker of San Antonio, Texas...
both Air Force. Lewis is to be buried in Marshall on August 13, and Baker is to be buried in Longview, Texas on July 29.

On April 7, 1965, Lewis and Baker led a flight of four B-57B Canberra aircraft on an interdiction mission over Xiangkhoang Province, Laos. After their B-57 initiated an attack run into heavy clouds, Lewis radioed his plane was outbound away from the target. There was no further radio or visual contact with the crew, and search and rescue missions failed to yield any evidence of the two men or their aircraft. Although the cause of the crash is unknown, enemy fire and bad weather are believed to be contributing factors.

In July 1997, a joint U.S.-Lao People’s Democratic Republic team interviewed several witnesses, two of whom led the team to the crash site. Four excavations led by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) from 2003 to 2004 yielded human remains and crew-related artifacts.

JPAC and Armed Forces DNA Identification Lab scientists used mitochondrial DNA to identify the remains as those of Lewis and Baker.

Of the 88,000 Americans missing from all conflicts, 1,827 are from the Vietnam War, with 372 of those within the country of Laos. Another 756 Americans have been accounted for in Southeast Asia since the end of the Vietnam War. Of the Americans identified, 197 are from losses in Laos.

For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169.

Photo for the Day- July 26, 2005


NASA RETURNS TO FLIGHT
Space Shuttle Discovery
launches from pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center, Fla. Image credit: NASA/KSC
Today begins America’s new journey to the
Moon… Mars… and beyond…
Good read and launch video at: NASA.gov.

Last Algerian Diplomat pulled out of Iraq

Most Headlines say Algeria pulls out last diplomat from Iraq – AubreyJ says NO… They like Spain and others just CUT and RAN from their obligations to the world and this war on terror!!!! When will these people understand that this is not just a U.S.A. war… It is the WORLD’S WAR and it’s most likely coming to a neighborhood near them very soon too!!!
(Cutting and Running is just another way to say to your enemies-- “We surrender… We accept your terms.” - NOT IN OUR HOUSE!!!)
AubreyJ........................................

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 755-05 July26, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Sgt. Jason T. Palmerton, 25, of Auburn, Neb. , died on July 23 in Qal'eh-Yegaz, Afghanistan, where he came under enemy small arms fire while conducting a dismounted patrol. Palmerton was assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N. C.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Monday, July 25, 2005

If we should lose our will

"If we lose our will-- if people decide this fight isn't worth it-- then I think we will rue the day, and we will not like the world that will be left for us. It will be a world where what happened in London and what happened in New York and… what happens in Iraq ever day could happen anywhere in this world… No one living in that world will be safe, and everyone would live in fear… And that would be an unacceptable alternative to living in a free democracy.”
Air Force General Richard B. Myers
July 25, 2005

Photo for the Day- July 25, 2005

Lifeblood of the Arab J'Bour village- Iraq
Good read at: centcom.mil
US Army Photo by:
Tracy Shith, 48th Brigade Combat Team PAO

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

No. 754-05 July25, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Bryan J. Opskar, 32, of Princeton, Minn. , died July 23 whenhis vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations near Ar Rutbah, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N. C.
Media with questions about this Marine can call the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033.

President Bush condemns attacks in Egypt

Present Bush visited the Egyptian Embassy here today to express his sympathy for those lost in the deadly July 23 attacks and to sign their condolence book. President Bush also condemned the attacks on Egypt's Sharm el-Sheikh resort area, pointing to them as another example of the need for the international community to unify in the global war on terror.

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who was traveling in Jerusalem the day of the bombings, reiterated the White House message that the United States will support Egypt as it confronts its most deadly terrorist in its history. "Together, we will confront and defeat this scourge that knows no boundary and respects no creed," she said.

Also today, Egyptian Ambassador Nabil Fahmy thanked President Bush for his country's outpouring of support over the weekend attacks. They "reflect the relationship that we have together, as two countries working hand-in-hand for peace and stability in the region, working against terrorism," he said. (Taken from DoD press release by Donna Miles.)
Read more at DoD: American Forces Press Service

Sunday, July 24, 2005

Tom Tancredo

“Until ‘mainstream’ Islam can bring itself to stop rationalizing terrorist attacks and start repudiating and purging people like Ali and Hajjar from its ranks who do, this war will continue. As long as this war goes on, being ‘offended’ should be the least of anyone's worries.”
Tom Tancredo (Republican)
Tancredo represents Colorado's 6th Congressional District in
the U.S. House of Representatives
Read commentary by Tom Tancredo at: DenverPost.com
Hat Tip and good read at: The Yellow Line

Photo for the Day- July 24, 2005

Bathed in the Lights
Rwandan soldiers are bathed in the lights of the flight line as they line up to board a U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules at the Kigali International Airport, Rwanda, for transportation to the Darfur region of Sudan on July 21, 2005. The U.S. airlift is part of the larger multinational effort to improve security and create conditions in which humanitarian assistance can be more effectively provided to the people of Darfur. DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Bradley C. Church, USAF

Saturday, July 23, 2005

Bombing attacks on an Egyptian Resort

"This operation came as part of the response against the global evil powers which are spilling the blood of Muslims in Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine and Chechnya… The mujahedeen-- have dealt a devastating blow to the Crusaders and the Zionists and the infidel Egyptian regime in Sharm al-Sheikh."
‘The Al-Qaeda Organization in the Levant and Egypt’
From Islamic website statement…
Authenticity not yet
verified
July 23, 2005

***-Open-Ended Post starts here-***
The Killings in Sharm El Sheikh
At least 83 are dead and more than 200 wounded in an attack on the Egyptian resort. Read more at:
Time.com
(Note Carl Rove AD- top right of that page)
Jordan ups it security after bombings in Egypt
Today Jordan denounced the bombings that rocked Egypt's Red Sea resort and stepped up security measures and precautions in and around its own tourist centers. Read more at:
ScienceDaily

Silence Descends on Egyptian Resort
For hours Saturday morning, gone was the clamor of taxis and tourists rushing off to the golf course, the diving centers, the restaurants. There was only the whoosh of official sedans moving fast on empty roads and the clatter of jackhammers as workers dug for victims in the collapsed layers of the Ghazala Gardens Hotel. Read more at: latimes.com
Post End*****************

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

No. 751-05 July23, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Steven P. Gill, 24, of Round Rock, Texas, died July 21 from an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations near Zaidon, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Reserve's 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, San Antonio, Texas. During Operation Iraqi Freedom his unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team-8, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.
Media with questions about these Marines can call the Marine Forces Reserve Public Affairs Office at (504) 678-4178.

Friday, July 22, 2005

Political Play-


Click Here to try 4 Free
Trial Issues of Time!
(This is not an ad)

I said I wasn’t going to do this but I just can’t help myself…
This is what an Advertisement looks like that Time has going on right now-- And I thought it was only about that mean old Carl Rove person!!!
(SORRY the link doesn’t work- I’m not advertising for Time for NOTHING-- though some might say I just did… NOT!!!)
Told ya I couldn’t help myself..........
Anyway-- How about a good read at CNN.com called “Political Play of the Week” by Bill Schneider. This read is about John Roberts, how he was picked and all the fun afterwards…
By the way-- The Time ad is at the bottom of that page..............

DoD Identifies Navy Casualty

No. 749-05 July22, 2005
DoD Identifies Navy Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Travis L. Youngblood, 26, of Surrency, Ga. , died July 21 of wounds received July 15 from an improvised explosive device during combat operations in Hit, Iraq. Youngblood was a hospital corpsman assigned to Naval Hospital Great Lakes, Great Lakes, Ill. , and deployed with the II Marine Expeditionary Force.
For further information related to this release, contact Navy Public Affairs at (703) 697-5342.

Korean War Missing In Action Serviceman Identified

No. 750-05 July22, 2005
DoD (DPMO) Identifies a U. S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War.

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U. S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and are being returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

He is Cpl. Leslie R. Heath, of Bridgeport, Ill. His interment is scheduled for Aug. 20 in Bridgeport.

On the morning of April 23, 1951, Heath and more than 80 members of 'A' Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team were captured by Chinese Communist forces. They were held in a temporary POW camp known as Suan Camp Complex, in North Hwanghae Province, North Korea. A former American POW who was returned to the U. S. through Operation Little Switch recounted that Heath died in June 1951 while imprisoned.

On July 16, 1993, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea returned 17 boxes of remains to the United States from the Korean War. One of the boxes contained remains of several individuals and two of Heath's identification tags. Scientists of the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) conducted years of forensic examinations of the remains and associated evidence until they made an identification two months ago.Information provided by the North Koreans about the recovered remains was consistent with the approximate location where Heath was believed held captive and died. Artifacts in the boxes were those of a soldier in the U. S. Army infantry at the time of the war.

JPAC submitted skeletal remains on 11 occasions to the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory for analysis. Heath's mitochondrial DNA sequence matched that of two of his maternal relatives.

Of the 88,000 Americans unaccounted for from World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War, the Vietnam War and Desert Storm, more than 8,100 are from the Korean War. More than 2,000 of those were held as prisoners of war.

For additional information on the Department of Defense's mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 748-05 July22, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Arthur R. McGill, 25, of Gravette, Ark. , died July 19 in Baghdad, Iraq, where an improvised explosive device detonated while he was on mounted patrol in a HMMWV. McGill was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000

Powerful Words on Terror by Australian PM John Howard

“Could I just say very directly, Paul, on the issue of the policies of my government, and indeed the policies of the British and American government on Iraq, that the first point of reference is that once a country allows its foreign policy to be determined by terrorism, it has given the game away, to use the vernacular. And no Australian government that I lead will ever have policies determined by terrorism or terrorist threats, and no self-respecting government of any political stripe in Australia would allow that to happen. Can I remind you that the murder of 88 Australians in Bali took place before the operation in Iraq; and could I remind you that the 11 September occurred before the operation in Iraq; can I also remind you that the very first occasion that Bin Laden specifically referred to Australia was in the context of Australia's involvement in liberating the people of East Timor. Are people, by implication, suggesting that we shouldn't have done that? When a group claimed responsibility on the website for the attacks on 7 July, they talked about British policy, not just in Iraq, but in Afghanistan. Are people suggesting we shouldn't be in Afghanistan? When Sergio de Melo was murdered in Iraq, a brave man, a distinguished international diplomat, immensely respected for his work in the United Nations, when al Queda gloated about that they referred specifically to the role that de Melo had carried out in East Timor because he was the United Nations administrator in East Timor. Now I don't know the mind of the terrorist, by definition you can't put yourself in the mind of a successful suicide bomber, I can only look at objective facts, and the objective facts are as I have cited. The objective evidence is that Australia was a terrorist target long before the operation in Iraq, and indeed all the evidence, as distinct from the suppositions, suggest to me that this is about hatred of a way of life, this is about the perverted use of the principles of a great world religion that at its root preaches peace and cooperation, and I think we lose sight of the challenge we have if we allow ourselves to see these attacks in the context of particular circumstances, rather than the abuse through a perverted ideology of people and their murder.”
Australian Prime Minister John Howard
July 21, 2005

Prime Minister Tony Blair spoke to journalists alongside Australian PM John Howard in the light of the explosions in London on Thursday, July 21, 2005. For complete statements from both Prime Ministers, Blair and Howard, go to: number-10.gov.uk

Photos for the Day- July 22, 2005





Can you help the police identify the bombers?
The Met Police have released CCTV images of four men who they believe were involved in the attempted bomb attacks in London on July 21. If you think you recognise anyone from the pictures above, or indeed can aid the police in their enquiries about this incident, please call the anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321
Above taken from: Direct.gov.uk

Thursday, July 21, 2005

Rice Entourage Roughed Up

“It makes me very angry to be sitting there with their president and have this happen-- They have no right to push and shove.”
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice
July 21, 2005
Why this has got almost ‘0’ Press today is just
beyond me… If it had been a Koran going down the toilet, now that would have
been NEWS!!!!
Read more at: Austin Bay Blog (a must read)

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 743-05 July21, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Jefferey J. Farrow, 28, of Birmingham, Ala. , died July 19 in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, of non-combat related injuries. Farrow was assigned to the Army Reserve's 146th Quartermaster Company, Fort Totten, N. Y.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Attacks in London won't sidetrack Terror War Support

UK, Australian leaders vow attacks won't sidetrack Terror War Support.
Australian Prime Minister John Howard and British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who were meeting in London when the attacks in London occurred today, affirmed their mutual commitment to defeating terrorism, including support for operations in Afghanistan and Iraq....
Read more at DoD: American Forces Press Service
(I’ll start an open-ended post on the London Bombings early Friday Morning.)

KIDNAPPING- CONSTITUTIONAL DRAFT- SUICIDE BOMBING- Just another day in Iraq

Based on a Pentagon report, US Secretary of Defence Donald Rumsfeld on Wednesday said rebels will carry out effective attacks on Iraqis, adding that terrorists remain effective, adaptable, and intent on carrying out attacks on Iraqi civilians and Iraqi officials.
Read more at: Bandkok Post

Photo for the Day- July 21, 2005

Photo of the Day
Something new I think I'll be adding to AubreyJ.org on a daily bases...

U.S. Army Sgt. Jeff McGee gives a hug to local Iraqi girls as his squad patrols near Nasiriya in southern Iraq, on July 17, 2005. McGee is deployed with Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 142nd Infantry Regiment.
DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Suzanne M. Day, USAF

Slim chance that Ihab el-Sherif is not dead

There is a slim chance, (and again one says slim,) that the Egyptian Ambassador just may be alive. If one remembers right, it was back on July 7th that the Al Qaeda Iraq wing, run by al-Zarqawi, posted a video showing the blindfolded Sherif and said they had killed him. Strange enough for them for they did not show the actual killing, which they seem to do so often… We can only hope for the best says AubreyJ........
Read more at: EGYPT GUIDE

Wednesday, July 20, 2005

Karzai met with PM Tony Blair Tuesday

"Had the world paid attention to Afghanistan at that time, from 1993 to 2001, perhaps we would have had the Twin Towers standing; perhaps today we would not have had the bombings in London-- and other parts of the world."
Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai
July 20, 2005

Karzai met with PM Tony Blair Tuesday
Read more at: ‘eitb24’

First manned Moon Landing 36 years ago today- July 20, 1969

First manned Moon Landing 36 years ago today- July 20, 1969.

36 years ago today, on the Moon’s surface in the Sea of Tranquility- Neil Armstrong became the first man to ever set foot on the Moon. (And to think we didn’t even know what a home computer or a good pocket calculator was yet.)
Have some fun over at
‘Google Moon’

NATO will add more troops to Afghanistan

More than 2000 troops will be going to Afghanistan, thanks to NATO, to help in the security of the upcoming elections this September. After all the new troops are deployed, there will be a total of 11,400 troops from NATO with most coming from Spain, Italy, Canada, Turkey and Germany. Read more at: International Herald Tribune.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 737-05 July20, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pvt. Lavena L. Johnson, 19, of Florissant, Mo. , died July 19 in Balad, Iraq, of non-combat related injuries. Johnson was assigned to the Army's 129th Corps Support Battalion, Fort Campbell, Ky.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Tuesday, July 19, 2005

The Plate and the Bruise

This is a follow-up on a post I did earlier called "Allah Akbar - Allah Akbar."
With this said I’ll ask you to click on 'Jack Army' for a real good read on a very brave and lucky Soldier… What say you???

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 735-05 July19, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Ronnie D. Williams, 26, of Erlanger, Ky. , died on July 17 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained on July 16 in Baghdad, Iraq, when his M1A2 Abrams tank left the road and entered a canal during patrol operations. Williams was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 734-05 July19, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. 1st Class Ronald T. Wood, 28, of Cedar City, Utah, died July 16 in Kirkuk, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Wood was assigned to the Army National Guard's 148th Field Artillery, Brigham City, Utah.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

President Bush, Australia PM John Howard and the War on Terror

"Australia and the United States share a commitment to freedom-- We understand we compete against an ideology of hatred, an ideology that murders the innocent in order to achieve objectives. We know we must be steadfast and strong when it comes to bringing to justice those who would kill innocent life, like those who got killed in New York City and Washington, D. C., and Bali, and London, and other places around the world.”
President George W. Bush
July 19, 2005

Australia Prime Minister John Howard said today he believes progress is being made in Iraq, but added the rash of suicide bombings and the publicity given to terrorists have become a "detriment to the progress that is being made at a political level.”
Read more at DoD: American Forces Press Service

Canadian soldiers set for Afghanistan

Thanks Canada…
This will mark the first time our Canadian friends have returned to Kandahar since 2002. If one remembers right it was back in 2002 when four Edmonton-based soldiers were killed in a friendly fire incident which didn’t set to well with our Canadians friends at the time……
Read more at: CTV.ca

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 732-05 July19, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Jorge L. Pena-Romero, 29, of Fallbrook, Calif. , died July 16 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improved explosive device detonated near his HMMWV while his unit was conducting a mounted patrol. Pena-Romero was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, Calif.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Monday, July 18, 2005

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

No. 730-05 July18, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Efrain Sanchez, Jr. , 26, of Port Chester, N. Y. , died July 17 as result of a non-hostile incident at Camp Blue Diamond, in Ramadi, Iraq. He was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N. C.
Media with questions about this Marine can call the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 729-05 July18, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Frank Tiai, 45, of Pago Pago, American Samoa, died July 17 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his position. Tiai was assigned to the Army Reserve's 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry, Fort Shafter, Hawaii.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

No. 727-05 July18, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Clifton B. Mounce, 22, of Pontotoc, Miss.
Cpl. Christopher D. Winchester, 23, of Flomaton, Ala.
Both Marines died July 14 when their vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations near Trebil, Iraq. They were assigned to 3rd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N. C.
During Operation Iraqi Freedom they were assigned to 2nd Light Amored Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team-2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.
Media with questions about these Marines can call the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033.

WAR on TERROR


We’ve all seen them on different websites. Those cute little ‘$.00’ counters running up the cost of the war with Iraq… Or how about those Body Count counters??? I’m sorry but every time I see one of those “@#&*” things it just makes me flat out SICK!!!!!!!

Behold-- Results of the ‘NON ACTION APPROACH' to the ‘WAR on TERROR’
NO OTHER WORDS NEEDED
AubreyJ
2005
(U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Robert Houlihan)

Sunday, July 17, 2005

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 724-05 July17, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Travis S. Cooper, 24, of Macon, Miss. , died on July 16, in Balad, Iraq, from wounds sustained the previous day in Baghdad, Iraq, when an inprovised explosive device exploded near the vehicle he was searching. Cooper was assigned to the Army National Guard's 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery Regiment, Starkville, Miss.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 723-05 July17, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Jared D. Hartley, 22, of Newkirk, Okla. , died July 15 in Taji, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Hartley was assigned to the 125th Forward Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 721-05 July17, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Tricia L. Jameson, 34, of Omaha, Neb. , died on July 14 in Trebil, Iraq. Jameson, a health care specialist was responding to a casualty incident when a secondary improvised explosive device detonated near her location. Jameson was assigned to 313th Medical Company, Army National Guard, Lincoln, Neb.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 722-05 July17, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Timothy J. Hines, Jr. , 21, of Fairfield, Ohio, died on July 14 at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D. C. , from wounds sustained on June 19 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Hines was assigned to the 64th Military Police Company, 720th Military Police Battalion, 89th Military Police Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

MoveOn.org

MoveOn.org
MoveOn.org has finally updated their BS Site!!!
Click it out at: MoveOn.ORG
........................................DEMOCRACY IN ACTION
........................................................ (MY ASS!!!)
Just more of the same BS is Moore like it.......

Saturday, July 16, 2005

Birthday of the Bomb


Today is the Birthday of the Bomb
July 16, 1945

The first nuclear explosion in history took place in New Mexico, at the Alamogordo Test Range, test name “Trinity” on July 16, 1945.

“Now we are all Sons-of-Bitches.”
Director of Trinity Test- Dr. Kenneth Bainbridge
Read more at: radiochemistry.org
Hat tip to-- ‘ParaTed2k’ Good read and thanks for reminding us…
For a little slideshow I did on the Bomb click on : 'AXIS'

Allah Akbar - Allah Akbar

Allah Akbar-- Allah Akbar........
This video brings it home over at: 'Jacks Army' - CG Sniper Video
Hat tip to 'warriorsvoice' Good read and thanks for aiming us to this video.

Soldiers Charged With Assaulting Suspected Insurgents

I could be wrong but something seems completely wrong with the following DoD Press Release. Help me out here-- What say you???

Soldiers Charged With Assaulting Suspected Insurgents in Baghdad

U. S. military officials in Baghdad announced today they have charged 11 soldiers with assaulting suspected terrorists. The soldiers were charged July 13, Multinational Force Iraq
officials said in a statement.

The charges are related to a report by a Task Force Baghdad soldier that other soldiers had allegedly assaulted suspected terrorists. The Army's Criminal Investigation Division immediately began an investigation into the incident, officials said.

Few details of the alleged assault are available. Officials said specifics couldn't be released until the cases have been resolved. However, they said none of the suspected nsurgents required medical treatment after the alleged assault, and only one remains in custody.

"All Task Force Baghdad soldiers are expected to act appropriately and to treat all persons under their control with dignity and respect. Allegations of illegal activities will always be thoroughly investigated," Army Lt. Col. Clifford Kent, a Task Force Baghdad spokesman, said. "The unit involved has been pulled 'off-line' to complete the inquiry and retraining."
Above from DoD- American Forces Press Service

Presidential Advisor- Karl Rove

You all know how I feel over all this mess on Karl Rove. So this will be the last post I do on what I think has become nothing more than a ‘Witch Hunt’ from those with an opposing point of view of this Administration. Let me rephrase by saying last post until AFTER all the Legal Investigation results have come in…

Now... This morning I was going through some of my more favorite Blogs when I came across this post titled, “Fools Rush IN.” This is about the best, to the point post I have read on the topic of the supposed ‘Karl Rove scandal’ to date. To the point and with no spin I saw in this post titled- "Fools Rush IN." It is such a good read that I will ask you to go by and read it too. Hat Tip to... “Another Man’s Meat” Thanks for the read……

“I too believe that from here on out the Democratic Party and the media need to be more careful with what they do and say-- But we all know it's not in the 'BEAST' to do such a thing.”
AubreyJ
July 16, 2005

Friday, July 15, 2005

Partial Truce Breaks Down

"Israel will not withdraw from the Gaza Strip under Palestinian fire. If the Palestinians continue to shoot, Israel will deal with their terrorism right now and proceed with the pull-out later."
Chief of Staff Lt. General Dan Halutz
Read about the disorders of this week in and around the Gaza Strip at: DEBKAfile’s

Taliban fighters kill seven policemen

Suspected Taliban fighters raided a police post Friday in southern Afghanistan, killing seven policemen and losing five of their own men. U.S. and Afghan officials have warned that the violence is likely to worsen before the country's parliamentary elections, scheduled for September. Read more at: Guardian Unlimited

Army Soldiers MIA from Vietnam War are Identified

No. 720-05 July15, 2005
DoD (DPMO) Identifies Army Soldiers MIA from Vietnam War

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of four U. S. servicemen, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and are being returned to their families for burial.

They are:
Lt. Col. Marvin L. Foster, Hubbard, Tex.
Capt. David R. Smith, Dayton, Ohio
Sgt. 1st Class Michael L. Batt, Defiance, Ohio and
Sgt. 1st Class Raymond E. Bobe, Tarrant, Ala.
...................all U. S. Army.

On March 16, 1969, Capt. Smith was piloting an Army U-21A "Ute" aircraft with Foster, Batt, Bobe and one other passenger aboard whose remains have not been identified. The aircraft left Qui Nhon airfield in South Vietnam, headed for Phu Bai airport near Hue. The Da Nang control tower briefly established radar and radio contact, but was unable to maintain it. The aircraft never landed at the Phu Bai airport. Combat search and rescue units scoured the area, both land and sea, for the next eight days, but did not find the missing aircraft.

In 1988 and 1989, the Vietnamese government turned over to U. S. specialists several boxes of human remains, including identification tags for Bobe and Smith. The technology at the time failed to yield an identification of the remains. Also in 1989, a Vietnamese refugee in the Philippines was interviewed, and turned over human remains as well as a rubbing of an identification tag for Bobe.

U. S. specialists from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) conducted seven investigations between 1993 and 1999, to include interviews with Vietnamese nationals who claimed to have knowledge of the crash. Then in April and May of 2000, a JPAC team excavated an area about 25 miles northwest of Da Nang, where they found aircraft debris and human remains.

JPAC scientists and Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory specialists used mitochondrial DNA as one of the forensic tools to help identify the remains.

Of those Americans unaccounted for from all conflicts, 1,827 are from the Vietnam War, with 1,393 of those within the country of Vietnam. Another 756 Americans have been accounted for in Southeast Asia since the end of the Vietnam War. Of the Americans identified, 528 are from within Vietnam.

For additional information on the Defense Department's mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO website at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo/ or call (703) 699-1169.

Indicators of Progress in Iraq

Indicators of Progress in Iraq

·There are more than 997,000 telephone landline subscribers- Up 20% from a pre-war level of 833,000. There are more than 2,600,000 cell phone subscribers-
None existed prior to Mar 03.

·There are over 168,000 internet subscribers. The estimated pre-war level is 4,500 subscribers.

·More than 149,000 Iraqis are currently being employed by USG projects.

·The Iraqi Stock Exchange opened in June 2004. It currently lists 89 companies (up from 40-50 under Saddam) with a total market capitalization of $1.4 billion. Between $2-6 million in shares are traded daily.

·In Oct 2004, 4.3 million children were enrolled in primary school-up from 3.6 million in 2000.

·Since Mar 2003, over 5 million Iraqi children aged 6-12, over 3 million children under 5, and over 700,000 pregnant women have received vaccinations.
Info from: U.S. Central Command Electronic Newsletter.

West Nile Virus

Just a reminder to all you outdoor people-

West Nile Virus activity has started so it's a real good time to make sure you're protected against those nasty mosquito bites. Even one bite can transmit West Nile virus or other diseases. While you're enjoying the outdoors, remember:

*Use Mosquito Repellent
*Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites
*Install or Repair Screens
*Support Community-Based Mosquito Control Programs

Click here for: West Nile virus map

Above info from- CDC

Key Suspect arrested near Cairo over London Bombings

Magdy Elnashar, 33 years old and a chemistry student at Leeds University was detained near Cairo, Egypt and was being questioned. Elnashar was believed to have had a central role in the making of the bombs used in last week’s bombings in London.
Read more at: news.telegraph

Thursday, July 14, 2005

Wilson says to Bush- Fire Rove…

AubreyJ says- No…. Fire Wilson!!!
OH!!! I’m sorry… The only job Wilson has right now is promoting his failed Book from last year titled ‘The Politics of Truth.’ (There’s a title for you…)

I’ll say this again…. All this drumbeating is going to end up hurting the Dems’ and the news media very, very, very much… I could be wrong but I think this Rove story is going to go no where when it is all said and done. And yes… Most Americans are truly sick and tired of all this constant negative crap!!! It’s the same old drumbeat from 2004 all over again and we know how that came out…

Now I for one can not wait till the next round of elections come up just so I can watch the media and many on the left, mope around in shell shock trying to figure out how in the world it happened to them again. They just don’t get it!!!!!!!!

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 715-05 July14, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Benyahmin B. Yahudah, 24, of Bogart, Ga. , died on July 13 in Baghdad, Iraq, where a vehicle borne improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol. Yahudah was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Progress toward Independence – Iraqi Security Forces

“The people of Iraq want to bring an end to terror. They want security and stability in their lives. Our constant pressure on insurgents, the continued progress of the Iraqi security forces and the reconstruction projects that are being completed will help them achieve those aims.”
Air Force Brig. Gen. Donald Alston
Spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq
July 14, 2005

There are 35 battalion-size operations going on every day in Iraq, and Iraqi security forces solely are running roughly 20 percent of those, Air Force Brig. Gen. Donald Alston said today. The Iraqi soldiers' presence in communities gives the citizens confidence and encourages them to give the soldiers information about weapons and insurgents. Several weapons caches are discovered every week, Alston said, and they include items like counterfeit U. S. money, mines, anti-tank missiles, anti-aircraft guns, dynamite and bombs. "All of this and more are now off the streets of Iraq thanks to the efforts of the Iraqi security forces, their coalition partners and the people of Iraq," Gen. Alston went on to say… Read more at DoD: ‘American Forces Press Service’

**Also today- Iraqi, U.S. Forces Capture Al Qaeda Leaders
Multinational forces in Iraq have captured two high-ranking al Qaeda operatives with ties to wanted terrorist Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, military officials announced today. Read more at DoD: ‘American Forces Press Service’

**Also today- Iraqi police thwarted a triple suicide attack
Iraqi police thwarted a triple suicide attack on Baghdad's Green Zone government compound on Thursday, shooting dead two bombers and wounding and capturing a third, a U.S. military spokesman said today. Police said the attack, claimed by al Qaeda's Iraq wing, involved a car bomber followed up by two bombers on foot… Read more at: Reuters UK’

My View on all of This:

Sometime in early 2006, 14 out of 18 provinces could be handed over to Iraqi control, allowing for a reduction in the overall U.S. troops to around 66,000. If I’m correct, at this time we now have around 138,000 troops in Iraq.

Now… I remember when all those articles in the news media came out last Sunday about the secret British Memo titled “Secret- UK Eyes Only.” This memo was about the US and Britain drawing up plans to withdraw the majority of their troops from Iraq by the middle of next year. So many in the media and on the left tried to make this into a… “TOLD YOU SO.” But I say “WRONG AGAIN, as usual.”

This isn’t about-- told you so… It’s about what’s in all the writings above. It’s about what Bush and Blair have been telling everyone since day one of this war. “We shall not stay no longer than we need to.” It’s about the Iraqis standing up so we can stand down. And if things keep going the way they’ve been going we most certainly should be able to lower our troop level and start moving them out of Iraq. That’s what this is all about-- Nothing more… Nothing less......

Six-Point Agenda for Department of Homeland Security

“DHS must base its work on priorities driven by risk. Our goal is to maximize our security, but not security at any price. Our security regime must promote Americans’ freedom, prosperity, mobility, and individual privacy.”
Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff
July 13, 2005

The United States threat level is still -- Elevated to Code Orange--or High-- for the mass transit portion of the transportation sector. This only includes regional and inter-city passenger rail, subways and metropolitan bus system..... More at: 'Homeland Security Advisory System'

On Wednesday, July 13, 2005, Secretary Michael Chertoff announced a six-point agenda for the Department of Homeland Security designed to ensure that the Department’s policies, operations, and structures are aligned in the best way to address the potential threats – both present and future – that face our nation. Read more at: DHS'

Wednesday, July 13, 2005

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 710-05 July13, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Timothy J. Sutton, 22, of Springfield, Mo. , died on July 11 in Baghdad, Iraq, where his HMMWV struck a land mine. Sutton was assigned to the Army's 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

They Lied

This is for all my Dem, Left-Leaning friends out there. Now I’m down the middle leaning to the right and I loved this song in a big way… Of course the song is full of BS but it sure is FUNNY!!!! Check out this song- ‘THEY LIED’ at: JayMankita.com
Hat tip: The Right LEFT Story
(Thanks for turning us on to this one Jeanette)

"What sort of a resistance is this? It's a crime.”

American soldiers, sweets, children and a murdering suicide car bomber made up the mix for 24 innocent Iraqi children to lose their lives today. 20 more children were injured and one American Soldier also died in this useless, suicide car bombing… Read more at: ‘Japan Today’ and at DoD 'American Forces Press Service'

Australia to send more troops to Afghanistan - Taliban kill Cleric in Afghanistan

Australia to send more troops to Afghanistan-
At this moment the Australians have one solder in Afghanistan but this is fixing to change. With the violence ratcheting up over there, the United States, Afghan Government and others have asked the Australians for help and they in turn, (as only a close friend will do,) have decided to send 150 of their Elite Troops to Afghanistan by this September. The Australian Defense Department might also consider sending up to 200 more troops to Afghanistan early next year. Read more at: ‘The Jerusalem Post’
Taliban kill Cleric in Afghanistan-
A senior pro-government cleric was shot to death by Taliban guerrillas in the southern province of Helmand earlier today and is the fourth such murder in the past six weeks...
Read more at: 'Alertnet.org'

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 705-05 July12, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Eric P. Woods, 26, of Omaha, Neb. , died on July 9 in Tal Afar, Iraq. His HMMWV struck an improvised explosive device that caused the vehicle to overturn. Woods was in the area to evacuate another soldier who had been wounded. Woods was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

No. 704-05 July12, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Kevin B. Joyce, 19, of Ganado, Ariz. , died June 25 after falling into the Pech River while conducting combat operations in Afghanistan. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.
For further information related to this release, contact the Marine Corps Base Hawaii Public Affairs Office at (808) 257-8840 or mailto:pao@mcbh.usmc.mil.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 703-05 July12, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Hoby F. Bradfield Jr. , 22, of The Woodlands, Texas, died July 9 in Tal Afar, Iraq while he was conducting a dismounted cordon search. Bradfield was assigned to the Army's 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Bombers were Suicide Killers

Out of all the news media and all the Blogs, I only know of one that got it right. (More than Less.) Yep… That would be our good friends over at the DEBKAfile. Here is what they had to say on July 8, 2005-- ‘The Bombers were Suicide Killers’
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Palestinian suicide bomber kills two today...
Mayor Miriam Fierberg-- "I saw before me the smoke and parts of bodies flying in the air. People around the world who judge and criticize Israel should come and see who is the victim here and who is murdering women and children." Read more at: Reuters.com
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AL QAEDA ATTACKS

A visual presentation of the major al Qaeda attacks, since the creation of the International Islamic Front and their subsequent declaration of war back in February of 1998.
A good read and a must see Flash Presentation over at: WINDSOFCHANGE.NET

Monday, July 11, 2005

DoD Identifies Navy Casualty

No. 699-05 July11, 2005
DoD Identifies Navy Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Matthew G. Axelson, 29, of Cupertino, Calif, died while conducting counter-terrorism operations in Kunar province, Afghanistan. Coalition forces located the service member while conducting a combat search and rescue operation July 10 in Kunar province. Axelson was assigned to SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team ONE, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
For further information related to this release, contact Naval Special Warfare Command Public Affairs at (619) 437-5133.

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

No. 698-05 July11, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Joseph P. Goodrich, 32, of Allegheny, Pa.
Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Kovacicek, 22, of Washington, Pa.
Both Marines died July 10 from enemy indirect fire while conducting combat operations in Hit, Iraq. They were assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Moundsville, W. Va. During Operation Iraqi Freedom their unit was attached to Regimental Combat Team-2, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.
Media with questions about these Marines can call the Marine Forces Reserve Public Affairs Office at (504) 678-4178

More US Forces Heading to Afghanistan

Within the next two weeks, around 700 members of the 1st Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, (an Army airborne infantry battalion,) are expected to deploy from Fort Bragg, N.C. to Afghanistan. It wasn’t but a few months ago, (March) that the Unit returned from Iraq after being deployed there in December to help provide security for the Elections held this past January...

This Army airborne infantry battalion, will be going to Afghanistan to help provide more flexibility in the fight against terrorism and to help in the support of the National Assembly and Provincial Council elections coming up this September 18th.
(Above info taken from DoD)

I wish all the troops and their families nothing but good things… For the troops to have a safe and successful mission and for all of them to return home soon after the elections.
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*** The body of the final member of a Navy Seal counterterrorism team was recovered during combat-search-and-rescue operation on July 10th in the Kunar province of Afghanistan military officials said today.

The location and disposition of the service member's remains indicate he died while fighting off enemy terrorists on or about June 28, a coalition spokesman said. Officials said there was no evidence to support a statement from a purported Taliban spokesman that the sailor had been beheaded by Taliban Members.........
(Above info taken from DoD)
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Sunday, July 10, 2005

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 694-05 July10, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Deyson K. Cariaga, 20, of Honolulu, Hawaii, died on July 5, in Al Hammadi, Iraq, when the HMMWV in which he was riding struck a land mine. Cariaga was assigned to the Army National Guard's 229th Military Intelligence Company, 29th Separate Infantry Brigade, Oahu, Kalaeloa, Hawaii.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Suicide bomber kills 25 and wounds 47 more

The relative calm in Iraq couldn’t last forever. Today, (Sunday,) a suicide bomber blew himself up at a Baghdad Army Recruiting Center, (filled with recruits,) killing himself and at least 25 others and wounding as many as 47 more.
Read more at: ‘CBC NEWS’

Saturday, July 09, 2005

SECURITY COUNCIL CONDEMNS ASSASSINATION OF EGYPT’S AMBASSADOR TO IRAQ

This has to be the biggest joke I’ve read in a long time… Check it out and see what you think--
SECURITY COUNCIL CONDEMNS ASSASSINATION OF EGYPT’S AMBASSADOR TO IRAQ, REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR POLITICAL TRANSITION, IN PRESIDENTIAL STATEMENT.
The league of CUT and RUN NATIONS condemning anything is a great big JOKE in my book!!!!!!
What say you???
(Oh yeah- Check out how long this meeting took.)

Now we worry

After the attacks in London on 7-7, this question came to mind… Has anyone noticed that there have been no mass celebrations and congratulations going on with all those al-Qaeda web sites from all over the world??? They all have been mostly quiet on all of this. (This is not normal.) Makes me wonder, scares me too, as to what the heck they are waiting on... What’s coming next??? As all of us old fishermen would say, “Hell-- They’ve all got Lock Jaw”!!! And this is truly not a good thing.........

Friday, July 08, 2005

Quiet Time in Iraq and Afghanistan

I just noticed that it’s been two days now and DoD has not sent out one single Casualty Press Release. After looking back over reports from DoD and other news sources, I see where none of our Military personnel have been killed in the last few days either. It’s just been quite these last few days in Iraq and no one has said anything about it!!! Well… We did have the murder of Ihab el-Sharif, who was Egypt's Ambassador to Iraq just yesterday but other than that-- Quiet Time in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Oh I so wish it would stay like this……
(- the terror attacks in London!)

Terrorist Attacks in London- Day two


(Another open-ended post on the Terrorist Attacks in London.)
White House photo by Eric Draper

During a news conference today, Commissioner of London’s Metropolitan Police, Sir Ian Blair, raised the death toll to more than 50 for yesterday’s terrorist bombings. This number is probably going to rise being all the bodies have not been recovered as of yet and there are still so many victims in Critical Condition in local Hospitals...

What about suicide bombers you ask… Sir Iran Blair said today, “We have absolutely nothing to suggest this was a suicide bombing attack although nothing at this stage to rule that out.” As far as unexploded bombs go… Blair said that only the four exploded terrorist bombs were found, no others, yet two suspicious packages were destroyed by police in controlled explosions but they turned out to be harmless.

** Prince Charles, his new wife Camilla and Queen Elizabeth have all visited St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington. They spent time visiting with many of the attack victims who had been taken there yesterday.

** No one is saying for sure as to who did these attacks in London yesterday but these attacks sure do have the hallmarks of al-Qaeda written all over them. A group called ‘The Secret Organization of al-Qaeda in Europe’ posted a message right after the attacks yesterday taking full responsibility. British Police say this group is of high interest to them right now but suggest nothing more. (Note: Al- Zarqawi is thought to have operated under a number of different names in Iraq. He’s used such names as ‘al-Qaeda Between Two Rivers’ and ‘al-Qaeda in Iraq’. Hint a potential connection between Zarqawi and ‘The Secret Organization of al-Qaeda in Europe’.) Another group today also claimed responsibility for the attacks. Not sure what the name of this group is but I do know that no one is giving them very much attention.

** After arriving back in Washington DC from his G8 Summit Meeting this afternoon, President Bush went straight to the British Embassy and signed the book of condolences.
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Thursday, July 07, 2005


Terrorist Attack in London
(An open-ended post on the Terrorist Attacks in London this morning.)

President George W. Bush and fellow G8 leaders stand behind England's Prime Minister Tony Blair Thursday, July 7, 2005, as he addressed the media at the Gleneagles Hotel in Auchterarder, Scotland, regarding the terrorist attacks that occured in London earlier in the day. White House photo by Eric Draper

"There are obviously casualties, both people who have died and people who are seriously injured, and our thoughts and prayers, of course, are with the victims and their families."
British Prime Minister Tony Blair
July 07, 2005

President Bush condemned today's coordinated terrorist attacks in London and instructed U. S. Department of Homeland Security officials to encourage local and state officials to be "extra vigilant" to prevent similar attacks in the United States.

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** After four explosions in London this morning, Homeland Security raises Terror Alert Level for MASS TRANSIT SYSTEMS, (Rail, Bus and Subway systems,) throughout the United States. No changes for airlines at this time. No specific intelligence indicating this type of attack in London is seen in the United States at this time.

** 12:15pm eastern time- At least 37 Confirmed Dead by British Police. Many more injured. (These numbers will be changing throughout the day…)

** British Alert- High- Attacks may not be over...

This morning, terrorists apparently set off bombs in three London subway cars and one double-decker bus. This is by far the worst attack in London since World War II. During press conferences today, an obviously shook up Tony Blair tries to comfort the British people.

Tony Blair returns to London from Scotland where he had been attending a conference of leaders from major industrialized nations. (The G8 Summit…) All of Britain’s Subway and Bus systems are shut down today. As many as 700 people injured in London Blasts.

No one knows who was responsible for these attacks, yet it does have the earmarks of an Al Qaeda attack. One bus may have been blown up by a suicide bomber at Russell Square in central London. More on this as information becomes available.

** Wall Street acts with calm over Terrorist Attacks in London today. Oil at $60.73 which is off from the earlier record highs of $62.10 set earlier in the day.

** “This morning, the civilized world watched with concern as the people of London saw the face of violence and brutality. We offer our deepest sympathies to the families who have lost loved ones and to those who were wounded.”
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld
July 07, 2005

** The jailing of a New York Times journalist Judith Miller, who refused to testify in an investigation into the reviling of a CIA agent back in 2003, gets “0” Press today. Also today the Egyptian presidency confirmed the murder of Ihab el-Sharif, who was Egypt's Ambassador to Iraq. It was 4 days ago when Sharif was kidnapped in Baghdad by the al-Qaida group of Iraq. Very little press has been given to this murder either.

** Earlier today at the British Embassy here in the States, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said the attacks will only re-energize efforts to counter terrorism. "It will, in fact, only strengthen the resolve of Great Britain, of Prime Minister Blair and his government, and of the people of Great Britain to make certain that terrorists know that they cannot win," she said. "We remain resolved in our determination to root out this scourge against humanity and against civilization." Secretary Rice also expressed America's "deepest sympathies and our solidarity" to the people of Great Britain.

** After being back in London for 8 hours, Tony Blair returns to Scotland and the G8 Summit.
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