Independence Gazette - Military News Network

CommanderCol. Marc FerraroCommand Sgt. MajorCommand Sgt. Maj. John Jones56th SBCT PAOCapt. Cory AngellPublic Affairs OfficerCapt. Maggie WhitePublic Affairs NCOICMaster Sgt. Sean WhelanPublic affairs NCOSgt. Doug RolesThe Independence Gazette is anauthorized publication for members ofthe U.S. Army. Contents of the IndependenceGazette are not official views of,or endorsed by, the U.S. Government,Department of the Army, or the 56thStryker Brigade Combat Team.All editorial content of the IndependenceGazette is prepared, edited, andapproved by the Multi — National DivisionBaghdad Public Affairs Office.independencepao@yahoo.comContents ...--Iraqi media meet 56th SBCT commander--Page 2--Micro grants a big community value--Page 3--Paxton Soldiers on the hunt for car bombmaterials in Abu Ghraib--Page 5--Taji Market security key for commerce--Page 6--BSB’s ranks stay strong, new sergeantswelcomed to NCO corps--Page 7--Field artillery sergeant major connectswith kids back home--Page 8Why the Independence Gazette?The name for the 56th SBCT magazineand newsletter is derived from the unit’shistoric ties to Benjamin Franklin and thecity of Philadelphia.The 56th Brigade is known as the IndependenceBrigade because the brigadeis headquartered in Philadelphia, thebirthplace of American independence.The name Gazette harks back to the“Pennsylvania Gazette,” a newspaperrun by Benjamin Franklin. Franklin didnot start the Gazette but under hisownership the paper became the mostsuccessful in the colonies.The legacy of Benjamin Franklin liveson with the 1-111th Infantry tracingits lineage back to 1747 when Franklinorganized his Associators to defendPhiladelphia from the threat of Frenchprivateers.The Independence Gazette will chroniclethe activities of the 56th in Iraq as itcontinues to build on the proud legacyof the Pennsylvania militia: “Citizen inpeace, Soldier in war.”On The Cover.Photo by Sgt. Doug RolesSpc. John Hill (front) of Eighty Four,Pa. and Spc. Matthew Strittmater ofCresson, Pa., both with Co. B, 2nd Battalion,112th Infantry, 56th StrykerBrigade Combat Team, move alonga building in Abu Ghraib during asearch for vehicle-borne IED-makingmaterials May 19. The 2-112th is attachedto the 2nd Brigade CombatTeam, 1st InfantryDivision. (See storyPage 5)May 2009 Independence Gazette VOL I, Issue 7

Food distribution aids Taji familiesBy Capt. MAGGIE WHITE56 SBCT Public AffairsIraqi National Police, working with Pennsylvania National Guardsmen,distributed over five truckloads worth of food and householdsupplies to needy women in the Taji area, north of Baghdad, May 16.Women lined up with their children to receive food donated by theUnited Nations. The food was made available to them at the TajiCouncil building. Many of the women said they had lost husbands inthe war and have been struggling to provide for their young children.Soldiers of the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team discovered thefood in a warehouse on Camp Taji when the unit took over operationslast February. Civil affairs Soldiers and members of embeddedProvincial Reconstruction Team— 5, based out of Camp Taji, workedwith the National Police to make the food available to distribute toneedy women and children.“This is UN relief food to give to the needy, such as the handicapped,widowed, orphaned,” said Maj. James Fluck, civil affairs officer forthe 56th SBCT.Iraqi women patiently lined up for several hours in order to receivetheir share of food and goods, which included rice, lentils, diapers,canned goods, and household cleaning supplies. Forty-five familiesreceived food, with enough left over for another 50.Sosun al-Ergaz, president of Services for Women and Children ofthe Taji area , inspected all of the food before distributing it to ensurethat everything was in good condition.She gently called the women forward and took down their names asthey piled everything into large sacks to carry home.“I feel good about this, to help a lady whose husband has died getfood for her family,” al-Ergaz said. “Islam teaches us to help others,and it was the way I was brought up.”Iraqi National Police worked with Taji officials to help coordinatethe distribution at the city center. Capt. Maria Claus, a 56th SBCTSoldier who works with the Iraq Security Forces, said this operationset a good precedent for the people of Taji.“The NP did a great job of working with the local nationals to getBy Capt. CORY ANGELL56 SBCT PAOThe Directorate General of Water Resources for Baghdad, Thair Dahri, visitedPump Station One in Saab al-Bour, May 16, to encourage students learningnew skills and see firsthand the recent increase in irrigation.“This increase means [more than 6,000 acres] of land will be irrigated,” saidThair. “We are committed to increasing the ability to maintain this pump stationas well.”Thair talked with 18 students training as operators at the station and said theministry is working on getting them employed.“We have helped increase the output of Pump Station One from two cubicmeters per second to four cubic meters per second,” said Capt. Philip Benner,assistant engineer, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, MND-B. “This hasdoubled the capacity of the station providing irrigation water to Sa’ab al Bourand Abu Ghuraib.”Benner said that they are also looking to provide excavating equipment sothe Iraqi’s can better maintain the canal system. This additional equipmentalong with 18 new operators, who will graduate the training course July 10,will increase their ability to sustain the progress.“This project also helped fill the Ghrai Bawi canal with irrigation water,”said Benner. “This is the first time in years that that canal has had significantwater.”Photo by Capt. Maggie WhiteA Soldier from the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 28thInfantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad standsguard as Iraqi women wait to receive food aid from the Iraqi NationalPolice. 56th SBCT civil affairs Soldiers coordinated withthe NP to release to Iraqi widows 12 pallets of United Nationsrelief food discovered in a warehouse.this food to the people who need it.” Claus said, “The people heresee that they are working hard to take care of the Qada (area) and thepeople of Iraq”.Fluck hopes that this project will be the first of many to help thecitizens of Taji.He stressed that the role of the civil affairs Soldiers and ePRT memberis to help mentor the Iraqi officials to operate independently ofcoalition forces.“We want to help the National Police with civil affairs and humanitarianaid training; it’s a good partnership between us and them” Flucksaid.Sa’ab al Bour to enjoy a wet futurePhoto by Lt. Duncan MacQueenEngineer Hameed Ibrahim (left), and Directorate GeneralThair Dahri, both of the Baghdad Water Resources Directorate,stand in front of the irrigation outlet for Pump StationOne in Saab Al Bour, Iraq, during a May 16 visit to thepump station.May 2009 Independence Gazette Page 1

Above: Journalists with Iraqi news outlets were updated May 12 on the work of the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team during apress conference held at the Freedom Rest center in Baghdad’s International Zone. Below: Col. Marc Ferraro (center), 56th SBCTcommander; Linda Specht (right) leader of embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team-5 and Capt. Cory Angell (left), 56th SBCTpublic affairs officer, listen to a question from an Iraqi journalistCommander formally meets Iraqi mediaSgt. DOUG ROLES56 SBCT PAO NCOCol. Marc Ferraro, commander of the 56thStryker Brigade Combat Team, told Iraqi journalistsTuesday that his Pennsylvania ArmyNational Guard Soldiers, working alongsideIraqi Security Forces, have improved securityin the Taji and Tarmiyah regions, northof Baghdad. Ferraro and an embedded ProvincialReconstruction Team leader alsodiscussed ongoing efforts to improve localinfrastructure during a press conference andluncheon held at the Freedom Rest center inthe International Zone, Baghdad, May 12.Over 30 Iraqi journalists, from media outletsbased in Baghdad, attended the event. Aftermaking their opening statements, Ferraroand Linda Specht, the PRT leader, answeredquestions on topics ranging from security tofreedom of the press to irrigation.“Security does remain our number onepriority within the qadas [regions],” Ferrarosaid. “We continue to conduct combined patrolswith the Iraqi Army and the Iraqi Policethroughout the qadas. We feel we have disruptedthe enemy’s ability to conduct operations.”Ferraro said the implementation of the newStatus of Forces Agreement will have littleimpact on the work of the 56th SBCT becauseit operates in a mostly rural area of Iraq. Ferrarosaid implementation of the SOFA, whichdirects Coalition Forces to withdraw fromcities by June 30, will not cause the brigadeto reposition its forces.Ferraro and Specht reported that the brigade,working with local Iraqi leaders, has 39 ongoingcivil affairs projects. Another 50 projectshave been proposed, they reported.Specht, a career State Department employeeand foreign service officer, explained the roleof the local ePRT.“We work on helping the Iraqi governmentand the Iraqi people to help themselves improvethe standard of living within the Tarmiyahand Taji qadas,” she said. “We’re an extension,down to the grassroots level, of theU.S. Embassy in Iraq.”One journalist asked about what he said is“desertification” of one area along the TigrisRiver near Taji. Ferraro and Specht said increasingirrigation is a goal of civil affairsteams.The May opening of a refurbished pumpingstation at Sa’ab al Bour will provide 20percent more water to residents there, Ferraroand Specht reported.One journalist asked Ferraro if Iraqi Soldiersand police officers are ready to takeover when Coalition Forces pull out. Ferrarosaid much progress has beenmade and reminded reporters that“Four years ago there wasn’t anIraqi Army.”He said the Iraqi Army Soldiershis Soldiers work with are proficientdown to the platoon leveland are able to conduct patrols ontheir own. However, he said IraqiSecurity Forces in the 56th’s areastill have need of reconnaissanceand intelligence gathering assets.Ferraro pointed out that the 56thSBCT operates a combined informationcenter to better enable brigadeSoldiers to conduct missionsjointly with the ISF.Capt. Cory Angell, public affairs officer forthe 56th SBCT, said meeting the media wasan important mission for the brigade as wellas an opportunity for journalists.“It’s important for us to interact with theIraqi media, to tell them about the work we’vebeen doing with the ISF,” Angell said. “Anevent like this helps develop their informationgathering agencies, so they can developas the nation does.”Ferraro concluded the press conference bytelling the journalists there’s “one mission”for Coalition Forces, Iraqi Security Forcesand the people of Iraq – to better the qualityof life for all Iraqis.Ferraro extended an invitation for journaliststo embed with units of his brigade so theycan witness firsthand the day-to-day work ofhis Soldiers and the Iraqi Security Forces.“Anyone of you is welcome,” he said.“Come on up and see what we’re doing.”Page 2 Independence Gazette May 2009

MicrograntsfundbrighterfutureBy Staff Sgt. MARK BURRELLMND-B PAOA few months ago there were desks caked with dust piled in a corner,no fans or air conditioning, no books—filthy conditions and brokenwindows in a dilapidated building that was supposed to be al-Irshadprimary school in Bata.But according to Pfc. Nickolas Klingel, a cavalry scout from Kresgiville,Pa., assigned to 2nd Squadron, 104th Cavalry Regiment, 56th“Independence” Stryker Brigade Combat Team, during their 90-daymicro grant assessment May 9, this school has transformed into asafe-haven for Iraqi children to come and learn.Because of the micro-grant program, this school, along with localbusinesses, now has proper facilities to help improve security and resurrectthe Iraqi economy.At the al-Irshad primary school, the children’s future is brighter andthe parents notice.“It’s a big improvement when you talk to the adults that have aspirationsfor their children to become better and bring home more moneywith their education,” said Klingel. “I see the kids getting smarterand learning because the parents know it’s a safe place to send theirkids.”Independence troops conduct frequent patrols through Falahat toPhoto by Staff Sgt. MarkBurrellFirst Lt. Reed Preece, anative of Gettysburg,Pa. and a platoonleader assigned to CTroop, 2nd Squadron,104th Cavalry Regiment,56th “Independence”Stryker BrigadeCombat Team, talkswith Mohad Faisal inFalahat May 9. “Withthe money the Americanshave given us,we’ve bought newfreezers,” said Mohad.“I feel very good becauseI get to help outthe local people withmy shop.”continually asses the progress of businesses that received the $2,000grants to see if they are using the money properly. From the 30-dayassessment to the 90-day assessment, Staff Sgt. Brian O’Donnell, asenior cavalry scout from Fannettsburg, Pa. said that about 60 percentof the 20 businesses that were given micro grants in their area havebeen using them successfully.“I think they want to show improvement and they don’t want to letus down,” added 1st Lt. Reed Preece, a troop platoon leader. “Forthose who took the project seriously and spent the money for theirbusinesses, it was successful.”Preece added that the locals appreciate the Soldiers and are happywith the support the Coalition forces provide by giving them an opportunitythey might not otherwise have “All my products are verygood,” said micro grant recipient and store owner Arkam Hatim. “Itry to help out the community because a lot of guys who didn’t havea job, now have a job. There’s also less al-Qaeda because of the manybusinesses.”By employing more and more Iraqis through the micro grant programand constantly patrolling the area where the businesses are located,neighborhoods are secure, added Preece.“I think it does improve security,” said O’Donnell. “They look atAmericans as friends instead of just people that invaded their country.You can definitely tell it’s helping the community.”Photos by photo by Staff Sgt. Mark BurrellAbove: Preece (right) talks with a local business owner May9. At right: Sgt. Eric Varner, a cavalry scout team leader fromChambersburg, Pa., assigned to C Troop, 2nd Squadron, 104thCavalry Regiment, 56th “Independence” Stryker Brigade CombatTeam, pulls security as an Iraqi child looks on during a microgrant assessment patrol in Falahat May 9.May 2009 Independence Gazette Page 3

Nightshift CavalryThe shadow shows Spc.Frank Killeen's ready posture.Killeen, a Trooperfrom B Troop 2/104th CAV(RSTA), is pulling securityin the town of Sa'ab AlBour while in support ofan Iraqi Army operation.Photo by Staff Sgt. MikeHutsonBelow, left: A 2-104th Cav. Soldier pullssecurity in a palm grove near Sa’ab alBour prior to a raid late on the night ofApril 29. At left: A 2-104th Soldier preparesfor the raid at the rear of a Strykervehicle. Photos by Sgt. Doug RolesBelow: Pfc. Kerry McCarty, of McConnellsburg,Pa., with C Troop, 2-104th CavalryRegiment, pulls security during a microgrant assessment patrol (see relatedstory Page 3) as the sun sets in Falahatthe evening of May 9. Photo by Staff Sgt.Mark BurrellPage 4 Independence Gazette May 2009

Photos by Sgt. Doug Roles1st Sgt. Harry Buchanan (left) ofAltoona, first sergeant of Co. B, 2ndBattalion, 112th Infantry, 56th StrykerBrigade Combat Team, looks over acourtyard in Abu Ghraib May 19 as IraqiArmy Soldiers prepare to use a metaldetector. The Soldiers were hunting forvehicle-borne IED-making materialsin an area where VBIEDS have posed athreat to Soldiers and civilians alike inthe past. The 2-112th is attached to the2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st InfantryDivision. Below: 1st Lt. Michael Kecklerof Bel Air, Md., a platoon leader withCo. B, 2-112, photographs a room of abuilding formerly used as a school duringthe search. Below left: Supportedby two buddies, Keckler peeks into anair vent.‘Paxton’ Soldiers join IA in huntfor car bomb-making materialsBy Sgt. DOUG ROLES56th SBCT PAO NCOPennsylvania Army National Guard Soldiersfrom 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry “Paxton”partnered with Iraqi Army Soldiers May 19to search several locations in Abu Ghraib forexplosives. The joint patrol was part of anongoing effort to lessen the threat of vehicleborne IED’s in Abu Ghraib by searching forcomponents used in making car bombs.No explosives were found. Soldiers fromCo. B, 2-112th, 56th Stryker Brigade CombatTeam, said the continued patrols with Soldiersfrom 2nd Battalion and 3rd Battalion,46th Iraqi Army Brigade are a deterrent towould-be insurgents.“We do joint patrols. Today was a counter-VBIED [vehicle borne IED] search and attack,”Capt. Jason Hoffman, commander ofCo. B, 2-112th, said.“The VBIED is one of the greatest threats.We were actively patrolling to mitigate thatthreat,” Hoffman said. “We maintain a nearconstant presence.”Hoffman said Soldiers of the 2-112th faced“a big challenge” in Abu Ghraib, at one timeone of the more volatile areas of Iraq, but saidhe is proud of the way his Soldiers have metthat challenge and have represented both thePennsylvania Army National Guard and theU.S. Army. Hoffman said the civilian experienceteachers, corrections officers and emergencymedical technicians bring to theatre asSoldiers is invaluable. He said his Soldiersare involved in “full spectrum operations”that range from combat patrols to assistingwith civil affairs missions.“We’ve done a lot of great things here,” 1stLt. Michael Keckler of Bel Air, Md., Co. B’sheadquarters platoon leader, agreed.Keckler’s platoon was in charge of securinga landing zone during the May 19 operation,in the event that medical evacuation by airwas needed. He echoed Hoffman, saying, hisplatoon maintains a near constant presence insector. He said that level of activity pays offwith locals providing more tips on insurgentactivity.“The civilians are stepping up. They’re a littleless scared, because we’re out there all thetime,” he said. “They’re less scared to comeand talk to us.”The 2-112th is attached to 2nd BrigadeCombat Team, 1st Infantry Division.Find 56th Stryker Brigadenews onlineGo to www.dvidshub.net,Click on “News from theField”Scroll down to 56SBCTAdd to your favoritesMay 2009 Independence Gazette Page 5

Keystone Soldiers, Iraqi Police focuson Taji Market security, cachesPhoto by Sgt. Doug RolesSpc. Adam Feldon of Allentown, Pa. (center) talks with an Iraqiboy May 4 as a patrol of Pennsylvania Army National GuardSoldiers and Iraqi Police officers moves through Taji Market.The “Keystone” Guardsmen are from Company C., 1st Battalion,112th Infantry, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team.Sgt. DOUG ROLES56th SBCT PAO NCOPennsylvania Army National Guard Soldiers and their Iraqi counterpartshave been hitting the streets to maintain security in Taji Market,one of the busiest sectors of the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team’sarea of operations, north of Baghdad. The market is a lynchpin in thesecurity effort there because it’s where the lives of locals intertwine.“Being the main market area, that’s the economy,” 1st Lt. Joshua Foxof Harrisburg, Pa. said following a May 4 patrol through the market.“Everybody in the area is linked to the market,” Fox, a platoon leaderwith Company C., 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry 56th SBCT, said.“They work there or they buy there.”The market is in the area of operations of Guard Soldiers stationed atJoint Security Station Hor Al Bosh. Patrolling Soldiers regularly talkto shopkeepers and with Iraqi Security Forces manning checkpoints.Fox said his Soldiers incorporate into their patrols as many Iraqi Policeas are available on a given day. The IP also discuss with CoalitionSoldiers heading out on patrol any outstanding arrest warrants for individualswho may be in the market area.Staff Sergeant Corey Bukousky of Harrisburg, Pa. said his Soldiershave gotten to know the market “like the back of their hand.” He andFox said Soldiers on patrol are always on the lookout for signs ofPhotos by Sgt. Doug RolesAt left: Spc. John Schloder of Ridgeway, Pa.,from Company C, 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry,56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, runsa metal detector over a pile of straw May 4at a farm near Taji. Soldiers of the 1-112thsearched the farm and the berm of a canal,located at the far end of the fields in thebackground. The Soldiers were searchingfor weapons caches in an area where a largecache was found the week before. At right:Sgt. Daniel Kysela of Pittsburgh searches aportion of the canal embankment.Photo by Sgt. DougRolesStaff Sgt. CoreyBukousky of Harrisburg,Pa., withCompany C., 1stBattalion, 112thInfantry, 56thStryker BrigadeCombat Teampulls security infront of an Iraqistorefront May4 during a patrolthrough Tajisecurity threats.“It’s one of those places that could turn into a bad place,” Bukouskysaid. “That is one particular place where something could happen veryeasily.”Bukousky said the company conducts an “above average” amountof missions but said leaders also consider wear and tear on Soldiersin their planning.“I’d say we average 14 hours a day in sector,” Fox said. “We do alot of localized patrols. We’re still infantry; that’s how we operate. Todefeat the enemy you have to beat the streets.”The infantry Soldiers use their Stryker vehicles for overwatch andscreening of dismounted patrols as well as for resupply and casualtyevacuation.“Strykers are an extremelyuseful platform,”Fox said. “It’sdefinitely a great asset.”Prior to the movementthrough themarket May 4, Soldiersparticipating inthe patrol pulled security at the Iraqi Police station in Taji as companyleaders met briefly with a local leader.Bukousky said his Soldiers see that assignment as a necessary albeitsometimes boring task.“We know and everybody knows the meetings [with local leaders]are a good thing,” Bukousky said. “We’re there for security. That mission’snot a big favorite but we understand its importance.”Page 6 Independence Gazette May 2009

Talk of the townPhoto by Sgt. Doug RolesSpc. Keith Mason of Philadelphia, a Soldier withCo. A, 1st Battalion, 111th Infantry, 56th StrykerBrigade Combat Team, watches a street in Nadeem,west of Camp Taji, as an Iraqi Army Soldierand other Co. A Soldiers pause their patrol to talkto locals. Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Soldiersoften discuss security concerns and otherissues with locals during patrols. An Iraqi boy, inthe background, has joined the grown up conversation.Photo by Sgt. Doug Roles1st Lt. Patrick Smith (center, above), a Reading, Pa. resident and commanderof Co. A, 1st Battalion, 111th Infantry, 56th Stryker Brigade CombatTeam, and an Iraqi Army major (right) talk with residents of NadeemMay 14. Iraqi Army Soldiers and Soldiers from the “Associators” battalionroutinely patrol the area, west of Taji.BSB honors reenlisting Soldiers, new sergeantsSgt. DOUG ROLES56th SBCT PAO NCOSoldiers from a 56th Stryker Brigade CombatTeam unit took time May 24 to recognize peerswho have reenlisted while mobilized. The unitalso welcomed newly-promoted sergeants intothe noncommissioned officer ranks.Dual morning ceremonies honored outstandingservice before the Soldiers of the Lancaster, Pa.-based 328th Brigade Support Battalion launchedinto an afternoon of Memorial Day weekend funthat included a cookout and softball and basketballgames.Twenty-three recently-promoted sergeantssigned the NCO charge and read the Creed of theNCO in front of a battalion formation. Sixty-tworeenlisted Soldiers then walked the stage at thefront of the pavilion to receive a U.S. flag anda certificate verifying the flag was flown in theatre.“For everyone who reenlisted since the mobilization,we flew a flag for that Soldier, over thebattalion TOC [tactical operations center] andpresented it to them,” BSB Command Sgt. Maj.Thomas Buck of Myerstown, Pa. said.Before the recognition of individual Soldiers,Photo by Sgt. Doug RolesBattalion Commander Lt. Col. Michael CurranFlanked by their battalion colors and Command Sergeant Maj. Thomas Buck (at left),of Pine Grove, Pa., praised the Soldiers for their23 Soldiers of the 328th Brigade Support Battalion who were recently promoted towork in Iraq.sergeant – including Sgt. Angela Horst of Silver Spring, Md. (second from right) and“‘Outstanding’. ‘Superb.’ ‘Magnificent.’ TheseSgt. George Henschel of Fayetteville, Pa. (third from right) – read the Creed of theare some of the things others are saying aboutNCO during a ceremony May 24. Soldiers of the BSB, 56th Stryker Brigade Combatyou,” Curran said. “I couldn’t be happier. ITeam, also recognized 62 Soldiers for reenlisting during their mobilization.couldn’t be more proud.”May 2009 Independence Gazette Page 7

Sergeant majorreceives memoriesto last a lifetimePhoto by Capt. Ed ShankCommand Sgt. Maj. Stephen Klunk (left) and members of TaskForce Joshua, 108th Field Artillery, 56th Stryker Brigade CombatTeam, display an American flag that was flown over theBase Defense Operations Center at Camp Taji, Iraq. The flag willbe sent to Susan Fryer’s seventh grade writing class at Spring-Ford Middle School in Royersford, Pa., as a token of appreciationfor letters sent by Fryer’s group of students.By Capt. ED SHANK1-108 FA PAO, 56 SBCTCommand Sgt. Maj. Stephen Klunk keeps a box in his home in Hanover,Pa. In it are keepsakes that remind him of significant eventsthat have shaped his career as a Soldier over the past 38 years in themilitary.When he returns home in the fall, he will need a bigger box.That’s because Klunk, the senior enlisted staff member of Task ForceJoshua, 108th Field Artillery, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, hasnew memories – memories of the time he spent helping to preparehis unit for deployment to Iraq; memories of time spent in Mississippiand Louisiana training for an ever-changing war in the MiddleEast; and memories of time spent at Camp Taji, Iraq where his unitis responsible for both traditional missions as well as a slew of nontraditionalfield artillery missions.One of the things that his box of memories is sure to includeis a stack of letters from the Spring-Ford Middle School SeventhGrade Center in Royersford, Pa. where his daughter, Melinda, teachesmath.Susan Fryer, a reading teacher at Melinda’s school, thoughtthat it would be a good project for her students to write letters to CommandSgt. Maj. Klunk and his fellow Soldiers, adding, as she put it, “aray of sunshine” to the lives of Soldiers serving in the 56th SBCT.“First of all it means, to me, that these young students arebeing taught by good teachers,” says Klunk. “They’re trying to instillthe right things and they care. [The letters] put a big smile on my face.A couple of these even brought a tear to my eye. It means a lot that thisyoung generation is thinking about our freedom. It gives you hope.”Klunk, a full-time Army National Guard member, has spentmost of his career supporting Soldiers who have deployed to placeslike Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq. But, because of his posi-Photo by Capt. Ed ShankCommand Sgt. Maj. Stephen Klunk reads a letter written bya student from Spring-Ford Middle School in Royersford, Pa.Klunk, a 38-year veteran of the Pa. Army National Guard, saysthat it is the kindness of strangers, like these children, thatkeeps morale high within his battalion.tion within the 28th Infantry Division, the career Soldier was neverafforded the opportunity to deploy – a fact that has weighed heavilyon him for a long time. Finally, after years working at division headquarters,Klunk returned to the unit from which he came, the 1st Battalion,108th FA, just in time to deploy.“[Deploying to Iraq] just puts the icing on the cake,” he says. “EverythingI’ve done to this point and being in the position I’m in makesit all worthwhile.”Although he says he speaks to both his wife and daughter ona regular basis, Klunk now feels like he has dozens of children – noneof which he’s ever met – who share their support, dreams and aspirationswith him.“A lot of the letters I’ve received are personalized,” he saysas he reaches for one of more than 100 sheets of paper sprawled out onhis desk. “This one that takes particular attention was done by a boynamed Ryan. It says ‘Yo! I’m just an average kid in the Seventh GradeCenter. I would just like to say that it’s awful brave for people, such asyourself, to join the Army. Also how much it means to everyone thatyou’re willing to fight for our country. I’m sure that everyone in theU.S.A. appreciates you and your fellow inmates.’”Klunk chuckles for a moment, then adds, “He’s not too faroff calling us ‘inmates,’ but at least we can get out of jail free at the endof the day.”Soldiers of the 56th SBCT have gotten thousands of boxesfrom individuals and organizations throughout the commonwealth.Although the contents may vary, the sentiment is the same – someoneback home is thinking of them.“For me, you can see the love and thought and care that goesinto each and every box,” he says. “They pack them as full as they canget them. It’s like I told my wife the other day, I probably have enoughshaving cream to last me for another deployment!”To thank Mrs. Fryer and her students for their kindness,Klunk has prepared a special care package of sorts. It contains a flagthat was flown over Task Force Joshua’s headquarters building [theBase Defense Operations Center (BDOC)], as well as a memorialplaque, photos and a letter of his own, thanking the teacher and herstudents for all that they have done.Klunk hopes that, in some small way, his efforts will bea reminder to the children of Spring-Ford Middle School that theirthoughtfulness was appreciated by the members of his unit. It is hishope that, like the keepsakes he stores in a box in Hanover, the studentswill be able to look at the flag with fond memories of what they did toimprove the morale of a Soldier thousands of miles from home.Page 8 Independence Gazette May 2009

ArmyStrongPhotos by Sgt. Doug RolesWillpower meets weights at a makeshiftgym on the back porch of the2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry’s tacticaloperations center at Camp Liberty,Iraq. Despite the heat a steady streamof “Paxton” Soldiers use the facility.Clockwise from right: Sgt. 1st ClassAndrew Plummer, of Quarryville, Pa.,with the 112th Anti-tank Detachment,moves enough weight to make onlookersshrug their shoulders in disbelief.Spc. Eric Bankert, of Red Lion, Pa.,2-112th Forward Area Support Co.,grits out one more set of leg presseswhile Sgt. Michael Ortiz of State College,Pa., Co. C, 2-112th, is a blur ofmovement as he jumps rope. Above atleft: A Soldier imagines biceps as bigas mountains before beginning hisworkout.May 2009 Independence Gazette Page 9

Safety notes ...‘Take 5’ to assess hazardsAs the Brigade Safety Officer, I have accessto all the accident reports Army wide, both inthe U.S. and overseas. Seventy-five percentof the accidents in MND-B are what most ofus would consider minor injuries and oftenfall under a category the Army calls “PersonalInjuries.” A Soldier trips over an object andsprains his ankle, or cuts his hand with a knifeand needs three stitches. Back in the statesthis minor injury costs the unit a five-minutetrip to the post medical clinic and a Soldierwho may not be able to train until the injuryheals. In Iraq, that same “minor injury” mayrequire the unit to send out a combat patrol ofthree vehicles and 15 soldiers to transport theinjured soldier to Company C, 328th BSB atthe Taji Clinic for an x-ray. Until that Soldierheals there is one less person to help with thecombat mission; one less set of eyes lookingfor the enemy; one less set of hands to helpcarry the load.The Army has developed a simple programto assist Soldiers and junior leaders preventpersonal injuries called “Take 5.” As a Soldier,take just 5 seconds to think about whatcan go wrong (hazards) and what you can doto prevent Injury (controls). This is somethingas simple as checking the ladder beforeclimbing into the guard tower or removing atripping hazard from the walk way. If youfind a hazard that you can’t easily fix take fiveseconds to inform your chain of command sothey can get it fixed before you or someoneelse gets hurt.If you are a junior leader responsible for otherSoldiers’ well being, the Army wants youto take just five minutes to conduct a HastyRisk Assessment. This is an informal processused to recognize potential hazards andLegally speaking ...JAG office, battalion paralegals can help Soldierswith issues ranging from house purchases to taxesYour brigade legal assistance team is ready,willing and able to assist with any and all legalquestions or issues that arise during a deployment.Our goal is to provide timely andaccurate assistance with any of your questions.We want to help you keep your mindin the game and mission focused by assistingin eliminating any legal distracters that maybe going on in your life.The services we provide include but are notlimited to domestic relations law (divorce andchild custody), wills and powers of attorney,name changes, tax questions, landlord-tenantissues, civil suits, Service Member Civil ReliefAct, and immigration matters. If you arein doubt as to whether your issue is truly alegal issue, feel free to reach out to the paralegalassigned to your battalion and ask. Theyare here to assist you and can often guide youin the right direction. All are welcome to stopimplement controlsto prevent/reduce injury.When given atask, such asdown loadinga vehicle, takefive minutesto evaluate thetask, determinewhat is likelyto get someonehurt, and getthe right equipmentto do thetask safely. You may think that by the timeyou do all that you could have down loadedthe vehicle and been back inside where its airconditioned. But being hasty and not takingfive minutes to prepare for the task, can leadto a lot more time spent taking a Soldier tothe medics, cleaning up a mess and doing paperwork explaining what happened. This isminor compared to the pain and suffering ofone of the Soldiers you are responsible for.Let’s not forget about that. For more informationabout Hasty Risk Assessments talkto your unit safety officer/NCO or Read DAPAM 385-1 (Small Unit Safety Officer/NCOGuide)Remember, your fellow Soldiers are relyingon you to be mission ready. Your familywants you to come home healthy. Do somepersonal risk management and stay safe.Take 5!!!By 1st Lt. Michael Green56 SBCT Safety Officerby Building 542 and schedule an appointmentfor a Tuesday or Thursday, the brigade’s legalassistance days. However, if you are out ata JSS we try to accommodate you based onyour schedule.For those of you thinking about refinancingor buying a new home either while deployedor once returning home, please stop by if youhave any questions. Mortgage rates are athistoric lows and refinancing may be worthit depending on your particular situation. Ifyou have questions stop in at the legal office.In addition, the American Recovery and ReinvestmentAct of 2009, dated Feb. 19, 2009(the stimulus law) has some benefits in it forfirst time homebuyers. If you are planning onusing some of that extra tax free money thisyear to purchase a new home, you are in luckif you are going to be a first time buyer. If youpurchase and close on a home between Jan. 1Soldier’s wifehonored forfamily supportgroup effortsPITTSBURGH - Patricia Reidenbach (above,right) of Mechanicsburg, Pa. was recentlynamed a recipient of a Highmark Inc. JeffersonAward for Public Service. The insurance companyhonored 12 of its employee volunteerswith the award. Reidenbach was honored in partfor her service with the Headquarters and HeadquartersCompany, 56th Stryker Brigade CombatTeam’s Family Support Group. Reidenbachserves as the group’s committee co-chair andcommunications chair for the group which providessupport for families of deployed Soldiers.Reidenbach is the wife of Staff Sgt. Thomas Reidenbach,HHC, 56th SBCT.and Nov. 30, 2009, you can receive a creditfor 10 percent of the home’s purchase price,up to a maximum of $8,000. This credit doesnot have to be repaid if you own the house forat least three years. In addition, the stimuluslaw provides money for wounded militarymembers who must switch homes to assistwith rehabilitation due to injuries. Militarymembers must try to sell their homes at fairmarket value but if the best they can sell it foris less than what they paid for it, they may beeligible for a refund up to 95 percent of thecost they originally spent for the purchase ofthe property.Come find out for yourself why we are thepreferred legal shop of choice in Taji, Iraq.By: MAJ Frank McGovernPage 10 Independence Gazette May 2009

Did you know?The 112th Infantry fought with distinction thoughoutnumbered during the Battle of the BulgeBy Col. ANDREW SCHAFER56th SBCT DCODid you know?That in December of 1944 the 28th Infantry Division wasinvolved in the Battle of the Bulge and that the 112th Infantry Regimentrepulsed the initial attack by a Panzer Corps. On Dec. 16, 1944 the 28IDwas attacked by 3 Corps with a total of 7 Divisions with attached element.The 58th Armored Corps with the 116th Panzer Division and 560thInfantry Division attacked the 112th Infantry Regiment.The 47th Armored Corps with the 2nd Panzer Division, Panzer LehrDivision and the 26th Infantry Division attacked the 110th InfantryRegiment. The 85th Infantry Corps with the 5th Airborne Division and the352 Infantry Division attacked the 109th Infantry Regiment.The morningof the Dec. 16 found the 1st and 3rd Battalion of the 112th Regimentdefending a six mile front supported by the 229th FA BN and with the 2ndBattalion in reserve.Their defense was set up in a heavily wooded forest with an adequatebut mired road network due to recent rain. The Third Battalion was incaptured west wall bunkers; while the first battalion was in foxholeseast of the Our River. The 2nd Battalion as the Regimental Reserve wasprepared to support by counterattack either battalion. Facing the 112thRegiment was the refitted veteran 116th Panzer Division with 43 Panthertanks, 13 PZJG IV and 26 Mark IV tanks. The 560th Infantry Divisionwas a recently activated unit diverted from the eastern front.In support of the German attack were 7 battalions of Corps Artillery.“Whenthe 28th Division arrived on the VIII Corps front in mid-November itsregiments were in pitiable condition. The fight in the Schmidt area hadcost the 112th Infantry alone about 2,000 killed, wounded, missing, andnonbattle casualties. In a month’s time the flow of replacements hadbrought the regiment to full strength. The regimental commander believedthat morale had been restored to a high degree and that the new officersand men now were fairly well trained.”The German plan was to seizeby surprise 4 bridges to facilitate the movement west by the mechanizedforces. General Krueger the German Corps commander had the followingplan. “Krueger had based his plan of attack on the intelligence reportsdealing with the Our bridges. Since the American troops east of the Ourwere deployed in the Lützkampen-Sevenig area, Krueger determined thathis main effort should be made there. Roads and bridges, he reckoned,must be in shape to support the American troops east of the river.These roads and bridges he intended to seize by surprise.” As in all plansIf you’re considering furthering your education,it is very important to consider all of your educationalbenefits while still serving in the military.Benefit packages vary from state to state. If youare considering attending college for the first timeor resuming education following your tour in Iraq,there are several recommended steps to take.First decide on the institution you’d like to attend.It is important to research the institution andevaluate the courses of study that are offered. Didyou know that approximately 80 percent of collegestudents change their major at least once? Onaverage, college students change their major threetimes over the course of their college career. Doingthe research now may reduce the chance of youchanging your mind down the road. Some recommendthat students enter college and declare as anundecided major and complete all general educationrequirements first and then finish with the coreclasses related to your major.Once you decide on an institution and programof study, there are a set of recommended steps totake. It is important to make contact with your institution’sVeterans Affairs certifying official. It isextremely important to confirm that your institutionis approved by Veterans Affairs. The followingsite will give you the opportunity to search forany institution that is VA approved: http://inquiry.vba.va.gov/weamspub/buildSearchInstitutionCriteria.do.The next step is to apply at the college or universityof your choice. If you are limited on time, itmay be beneficial to apply at more than one institution.Check with each institution that you applyto for specific requirements. Typically, you willbe required to provide an official transcript fromyour high school. An official transcript refers to anun-opened official and original copy of your transcript.Often enough, they are free and are maileddirectly from your high school to the institution ofyour choice.Completing the Free Application for StudentAid (FAFSA) is the next step. Each year thereare specific deadlines, based on anticipated timeof enrollment. Visit www.fafsa.ed.gov. for moreinformation. Your FAFSA application determinesthe enemy gets a vote and this case the 112th with the support from the229 FA PAARNG put up an excellent defense that the Germans could notdefeat. The 3-112IN under MAJ Woodward in his foxholes and West Wallbunkers was attacked by the 1130RGT/560ID. During the initial surprisethe 1130th made some progress but a counterattack by 2 companies from2/112th (LTC MacSalka) pushed the Germans back and by night fallthe 3rd battalion held it starting positions. The 1st Battalion under LTCAllen to the north was attacked that morning by the 156th MechanizedInfantry Regiment and the 60th Tank Regiment. In the early hours theGermans infiltrated Shock companies to get behind the defenders. “By0630 the grenadiers were behind the command post of the 1st Battalion(Lt. Col. William H. Allen) in Harspelt; the first sign of their presencewas a kitchen truck ambushed while journeying to the rear. The advanceparty of grenadiers had moved along the wooded draw between the twocompanies holding the 1st Battalion line.”“When day came the Americans (1-112th) caught the troops followingthe advance party of the assault company out in the open. Interlockingmachine gun and rifle fire blocked off the German reinforcements somesixty were captured and the rest dug in where they could. Company D, in itssupport position on the high ground overlooking Lützkampen, meanwhilecommenced mopping up the enemy who had filtered between thecompanies on the line. By noon Company D had so many prisoners that it“couldn’t handle them all!” Nonetheless some part of the assault wave hadbroken through as far as the battery positions near Welchenhausen, wherethey were repelled by the .50-caliber quadruple mounts of the antiaircraftartillery.”At the close of the first day the 112th still held their positions andseriously upset the time table of the attacking Germans Corps.“Perhaps the Americans had some reason for elation on the night of 16December, but all knew that harder blows would be dealt on the morrow.Wrote one in his diary: “Nobody able to sleep and no hot meals today. Thisplace is not healthy anymore.””The 112th continued to their tenaciousdefense on 17 December and continued to disrupt the German time table.The Germans had to divert their 116th Panzer Division to the southacross the Dasburg Bridge on the night of the 17/18 Dec; because of thedefense by the 112th Infantry Regiment. The 112th eventually retreated toSt. Vith where they fought with distinction at that historic battle with theUS 7th Armored Division.For more info on this battle go to: http://www.history.army.mil/inquire.htmlSelecting a college part of the journeyyour eligibility forlow or no interest studentloans as well asstate and other federalgrants. Be sure to mark“veteran” on yourFAFSA. Send a copyof your DD 214 withyour application.You may find that your institution will grant collegecredit based on your military training or experience.It is highly recommended to compile alltranscripts from previous colleges and any militarytraining that can be evaluated for transfer credit.Pennsylvania Army National Guard Soldiers canfind military transcripts at the following website:http://aarts.army.mil. Be sure to thoroughly reviewyour transcript and report any discrepanciesthrough your chain of command.Often enough, service members may be able toplace out of certain courses. Inquire about any requiredtesting for placement.(Continued on Page 13)May 2009 Independence Gazette Page 11

Chaplain’s reflection ....Combat tour provides greater insightMemorial Day is viewedas the “unofficial start” ofsummer. With the temperaturesnow routinely climbing intothe hundreds I believe we cansafely call it the official start.In addition to Memorial Daythe summer months containsome of the most special andcelebrated holidays of our civicyear.June 14 is Flag Day andalso the birthday of the U.S.Army. On this date in 1775 the15,000+ Soldiers, encamped onthe green in Cambridge, Mass.were officially established asthe Continental Army.July 4 is Independence Dayand the remembrance of the daywhen the 13 original coloniesdeclared to Great Britain andthe entire world that we werenow a new nation dedicatedto the principles of liberty andSoldier to Soldier ...freedom.These days are usuallycelebrated with much fanfareand festivities. We may thinkourselves slighted by not havingthe opportunity of spendingthese days with family andfriends doing what we normallydo, however I believe thatthese days can and will havea profound impact on how weview these events in the future.Knowing that we celebratedFlag Day and the Army’sBirthday in the uniform ofour nation’s military may giveus greater insight into theimportance of our flag and whatit stands for. Remembering thatwe were on active duty servingin the Army in a combat zoneon its birthday may help us feelmore rooted and connected tothose thousands of dedicatedmen and women who have wornthat same uniform in difficulttimes throughout our nation’shistory and its wars. CelebratingIndependence Day in a countrythat is still in the midst ofestablishing liberty, freedomand justice for its people mayhelp us appreciate all the morethe wonderful benefits that weenjoy as a nation and often takefor granted in our lives.As with our lives in general,great benefit can be gainedby taking advantage of theopportunities that are presentedto us at pivotal moments. Atfirst it might seem that little ifanything can be gained by ourbeing here and missing out onspending these days with ourloved ones and friends, but ifwe reflect and truly rememberwhat these days mean thenI think that we can grow ina much deeper awareness ofSenior NCOs must develop young leadersWith more than 200 years ofserving the U.S. Army, theNoncommissioned OfficerCorps has been recognized asthe world’s most accomplishedand distinguished group ofmilitary professionals. Inrecognition of this service andsacrifice, Secretary of the ArmyPete Geren established 2009 as“The Year of the NCO.”The history of the NCO beganin 1775 in the ContinentalArmy and the following rankswere established: Corporals,Sergeants, First Sergeants,Quartermaster Sergeants andSergeants Major. In 1778Inspector General BaronVon Steuben established thestructure of the NCO Corpsin the “Blue Book”—TheRegulations for the Order andDiscipline of the Troops of theUnited States. The NCO Corpshave commonly been referredto as the “Backbone of theAmerican Army.” In fact, theNCO Creed states these verywords:NCO CreedNo one is more professionalthan I. I am a NoncommissionedOfficer, a leader of soldiers. Asa Noncommissioned Officer, Irealize that I am a member ofa time honored corps, which isknown as “The Backbone of theArmy”. I am proud of the Corpsof Noncommissioned Officersand will at all times conductmyself so as to bring credit uponthe Corps, the Military Serviceand my country regardless ofthe situation in which I findmyself. I will not use my gradeor position to attain pleasure,profit, or personal safety.Competence is my watchword.My two basic responsibilitieswill always be uppermost in mymind -- accomplishment of mymission and the welfare of mysoldiers. I will strive to remaintechnically and tacticallyproficient. I am aware of myrole as a NoncommissionedOfficer. I will fulfill myresponsibilities inherent in thatrole. All soldiers are entitled tooutstanding leadership; I willprovide that leadership. I knowmy soldiers and I will alwaysplace their needs above my own.I will communicate consistentlywith my soldiers and neverleave them uninformed. I willbe fair and impartial whenrecommending both rewardsand punishment.Officers of my unit will havemaximum time to accomplishtheir duties; they will not haveto accomplish mine. I will earntheir respect and confidenceas well as that of my soldiers.I will be loyal to those withwhom I serve; seniors, peers,and subordinates alike. I willexercise initiative by takingappropriate action in theabsence of orders. I will notcompromise my integrity, nor mymoral courage. I will not forget,nor will I allow my comrades toforget that we are professionals,Noncommissioned Officers,leaders!Many things have changed overthe years but the role of the NCOis still basically the same. NCOsnot only lead by example but theyalso lead from the front. It is everyNCO’s job to train their soldiers.NCOs must also use theirown initiative to get things done.Senior NCOs and leaders needto use their experiences learnedhere in Iraq to coach, teach andmentor our junior NCOs andfuture leaders. This is where anNCO develops his or her leadershipabilities and style.Our NCOs must take the leadand lead by example, enforcestandards and discipline. Frombasic training to the battlefield,the NCO is truly the back bonewhat these days are truly about:duty, honor, courage and awillingness to sacrifice for thegreater good of our nation, oursociety and our people.“Pro Deo et Patria”By Col. (Chaplain) BertKozen56th SBCT Chaplainthat holds the Army together. Tothe NCOs of the 56th StrykerBrigade Combat Team I wouldjust like to recognize you foryour dedication to duty, strengthof character and professionalism.You truly are the best and brightestthis country has to offer andit is my honor to serve in theseranks with you.The following quote byRosalynn Carter sums it upwell: “A leader takes peoplewhere they want to go. A greatleader takes people where theydon’t necessarily want to go,but ought to be.”See you on the BattlefieldJohn E. JonesCommand Sergeant Major56th SBCT“Strength through Honor”Page 12 Independence Gazette May 2009

Commander’s CornerMid way through tour, ‘Independence’Soldiers building on sacrificesThis month we have hit anothermilestone. We are half waythrough our rotation. Whatdoes that mean to us? Simple,we still have more work to do.Although, I think the biggerquestion is, do you all knowwhat you have accomplished todate? If not here are some statisticsfor you:The brigade engineers haveconducted 222 route clearancemissions covering 14,762km,totaling 1,163 hours, makingthe roads safe not just for us,but for all IraqisThe 328th Brigade SupportBattalion has traveled morethan 28,000 mission miles inorder to support our soldierslocated at our nine joint securitystations to ensure our soldiershave what they need toopreate.They have moved 280,000bottles of water, delivered over58,800 lbs. of ice and maintaineda 97 percent operationalreadiness rate for vehicles inthe brigade – an achievementthat stands out across all thebrigades in the 1st Cavalry DivisionWe have completed and closedout 89 projects that were startedby our predecessors. Thoseworks totaled $21.5 million.These projects will provideor improve essential servicesfor Iraqis, improve the qualityof life and provide economicgrowth for the communityOur maneuver battalions havefound and cleared over 79 cacheSelecting(Cont’d from Page 11)Most institutions hold an open house or new student orientation program.It is important to attend an orientation or tour of your school to become familiarwith rules, regulations, policies, tutoring, team and intramural athletics,financial aid, and housing availability. Often enough, you may find theseorientations very beneficial as you may learn about new benefits to help youthrough college.Academic advisors are important faculty or staff members who work to helpyou accomplish your goals. An academic advisor can assist you in planningyour future as well as registering for classes. Meeting with your academicadvisor once a semester is highly recommended.Applying for Veterans Affairs Education benefits is extremely important.Once you contact your VA certifying official at your institution, it will be yourresponsibility to apply online for benefits. With the addition of the Post 9/11G.I. Bill, there are several benefits and forms to complete. If you are unsure ofwhat forms to complete, contact the 56 SBCT Education Officer, 1st Lt. RobertPrah for more information. Typically, you will have to wait 8-12 weeks toreceive your check from Veterans Affairs. If you are planning on attendingsites, disrupting the enemiesability to build IEDs and improvingthe security situationThrough our partnership withthe ISF, our units have capturedsix brigade high value individualsand over 80 other lower tiertargets.Our field artillery battalionhas fired over 865 rounds, morethan any other in the divisionWe have awarded over 300combat badges, nine ArmyCommendation Medals forvalor and one Bronze Star forvalor, this is a testament to thebravery and warrior ethos thatour soldiers display and live byeverydayNow why do I bring this up?I think it is important for allof you to know the things youhave accomplished in sucha short time. Think aboutwhere we were eight monthsago when we first reported toCamp Shelby, and now lookat you today. There should beno doubt in anyone’s mind whoyou are and what you have accomplished.Your efforts andcontributions are providing abetter life for the Iraqi people,while at the same time ensuringthat the ISF is a capable forceable to provide security for thepopulation.As I stated earlier there is stillmuch to do. We are currentlyworking on 71 more projects totalingover $24 million. Theseprojects are in the areas of irrigation,electricity, agricultureand security. The Brigade continuesto conduct lethal operations,targeting many high valueindividuals. We continue ourpartnership with the Iraqi Armyand the Iraqi Police through ourLEAP Program. This programleverages the civilian skill setsof our law enforcement personnelin the brigade to help trainand professionalize the IraqiPolice.We have disrupted the enemy,provided essential services tothe Iraqi people, enhanced security,mentored local governmentswith our ePRT brethren,but this has not been without acost. On May 27, 2009, the brigadelost another great Americanhero. Spc. Chad Edmundson,B/2-112th Infantry, gavethe ultimate sacrifice, whenhe was killed by an IED whileconducting a dismounted patrol“His characterwas defined byselfless service.”Capt. JasonHoffman, onSpc. Chad Edmundson,Co. B,2nd Battalion,112th Infantry,56th SBCT, whodied May 27 ofwounds sustainedin an IEDattack that day.in Abu Ghraib. And let us notforget the brave and courageousacts of Stafff Sgt. Mark Baumwho gave the ultimate sacrificeon Feb. 21, 2009. These bravemen were outstanding soldiersand will be sorely missed by all.They will eternally be in ourhearts and we give condolencesand pray for their families.Citizen soldiers of the IndependenceBrigade, be proudof your accomplishments; theyare yours. To all, I say thankyou and congratulations forwhat you have accomplished sofar. You continue to make historyas part of the only reservecomponent Stryker Brigade, inthe oldest division in the Army,the 28th Division, famed forits Iron Soldiers of World WarI. You are no different. But,stay focused on the task athand, as there is still much todo. We must continue to fightto the finish. There is still anenemy out there. Stay vigilant,stay professional, maintain theoffensive, and keep an eye oneach other.“Strength Through Honor”Marc FerraroColonel, InfantryCommandingIndependence 6school during the spring 2010 semester, it is important to apply for benefits inOctober or November 2009. In regard to your benefits, it is required to notifyyour certifying official of any change in enrollment status, including addingor dropping courses, or receiving an incomplete grade. The policy for verifyingattendance each month has not changed. Each student must log in to theWeb Automated Verification Enrollment site to verify you were taking classesfor the term selected. This process will remain in effect for the Post 9/11 G.I.Bill benefits.Contact your institution’s Disability Service or Office for Students with Disabilitiesif you require additional services. Most institutions now have studentveteran groups or clubs. If your institution has one, it might be worthwhile toattend a meeting to see what additional services or information they have. Oftenenough, they have additional scholarships that aren’t advertised to the generalstudent populace. Student Veterans of American and Iraq & AfghanistanVeterans of America are new and very popular among college students today.Visit www.studentveterans.org and www.iava.org for more information.By 1st Lt. Robert Prah56th SBCT Education OfficerMay 2009 Independence Gazette Page 13