Coalition Forces transfer of authority

3rd ACR on patrol in Mosul

TIKRIT, Iraq (MNF-Iraq) – Task Force Freedom relinquished command of northwest Iraq in a ceremony Dec. 30 to the Task Force Band of Brothers.
The ceremony was held at Life Support Area Diamondback in Mosul and marked the transfer of authority from TF Freedom, a headquarters built around the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, to TF Band of Brothers, centered around the newly transformed headquarters of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), from Fort Campbell, Ky.
Northwest and north central Iraq operational areas will consolidate into a single multinational division area of operations under the command of TF Band of Brothers. The task force retains its responsibility for training Iraqi security forces and conducting security operations in the provinces of Diyala, Kirkuk, Salah ad Din, and Sulymaniyah. Its security partners are the Iraqi Army 4th and 5th Divisions, and provincial and local police.
The consolidation will add the provinces of Ninewah and Dahuk to the 101st Airborne Division area of responsibility. Coalition Soldiers will partner with the Iraqi Army 2nd and 3rd Divisions, as well as law enforcement agencies, in these two provinces.
With the change of command responsibilities, TF Band of Brothers includes the 1st and 3rd Brigade Combat Teams from the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), 1st and 3rd Brigade Combat Teams from the 3rd Infantry Division, the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment and the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team.

Iraqi security forces take charge against terrorism

MULTINATIONAL FORCE-NORTHWEST PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER, MAJ DAVID ALBANO DAVID.ALBANO@US.ARMY.MIL
MOSUL, Iraq -- Iraqi Security Forces along with Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 109 suspected terrorists and seized four weapons caches in northern Iraq, Dec. 17-29. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion 4th Brigade 2nd Division detained 13 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate raids in Mosul Dec. 20-29.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion 1st Brigade 2nd Division, detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activities during a raid in Mosul Dec.22.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion 1st Brigade 4th Division detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid Dec. 28.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion 4th Brigade 2nd Division detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity during a raid in Tal Afar Dec. 20.
Iraqi Commandos from 3rd Battalion 4th Brigade and Soldiers from 1st Battalion 17th Infantry Regiment detained one individual during a raid in Mosul Dec. 23.
Iraqi Police detained six individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul Dec. 18-22.
Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained eight individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul Dec. 17-25.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Bayji, Dec. 28.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained 25 individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Mosul Dec. 19-28.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 10 Infantry Regiment detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul, Dec. 27.
Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st infantry Regiment, detained 20 individuals suspected terrorist activity during separate operations in Mosul, Dec. 27.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, detained 10 individuals for suspected terrorist activity during operations near Tal Afar, Dec. 22.
Soldiers from TF 5-7 detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid north of Balad, Dec. 26.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, detained 11 individuals suspected of terrorist activity and discovered a weapons cache consisting of 180 mortar rounds, a functional machinegun, and artillery fuses during separate operations in the Kirkuk province Dec. 27.
Soldiers from 2/3 ACR discovered a weapons cache during operations near Tal Afar Dec.17.
Soldiers from 43rd Combat Engineer Company discovered two weapons caches consisting of paraphernalia for making IEDs, AK-47 ammunition, and magazines during operations in Mosul Dec. 20.
Soldiers from 4/23 discovered a weapons cache consisting of 16 120mm mortar rounds during operations in Mosul, Dec. 25.
Soldiers from 1-17 Inf. discovered a weapons cache consisting of two AK-47’s, seven magazines, one pistol, five rocket-propelled grenades, ammunition, and blasting caps during operations in Mosul, Dec. 28.

"Silent Night" "Peace on Earth"

Merry Christmas from the HARRIS FAMILY

Donnie

Lisa

Alexia

Christopher

Iraqi security forces, Task Force Freedom continue sweep of terrorists and weapons

MOSUL, Iraq (mnf press release) — Iraqi security forces along with Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 46 suspected terrorists and seized weapons caches in northern Iraq, Dec. 5 -12.
In Mosul, Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division along with Iraqi Police detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized loaded AK-47 magazines during a raid Dec. 5.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 2nd Division detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid Dec. 8. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 1st Division detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations Dec. 9.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Division along with Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment seized a cache of AK-47’s with multiple loaded magazines, a sniper rifle with loaded magazines, an anti-aircraft missile launcher with four missiles, over 100 rounds of ammunition, 500 more linked rounds of ammunition, a semi-automatic pistol, an automatic rifle, hand grenades, rocket propelled grenade launchers with ammunition, and high explosives during a raid Dec. 12. Iraqi Army Soldiers confiscated the cache for future destruction. Suspects are in custody with no ISF injuries reported.
Iraqi Police detained an individual suspected of placing several IEDs near an election site during operations in Mosul Dec.10. The suspect is in custody with no ISF injuries reported.
Also in Mosul, Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized an anti-tank mine, detonators, and a timer Dec. 5. Soldiers from 1-17 Infantry detained eight individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations Dec. 6-10.
The unit detained another ten individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid Dec. 7. Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 11th Field Artillery Regiment detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity during operations Dec. 9. Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations Dec. 10. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
In Tal Afar, Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity during a raid Dec. 5. Soldiers from 2/325 Infantry also discovered a cache of AK-47 bandoleers, a 120 mm round, TNT-filled canisters, sticks of TNT, anti-U.S. propaganda, and various IED materials Dec. 5.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained six individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized IED making materials during operations Dec. 9. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

Security forces take charge against terrorism

MOSUL, IRAQ (December 4, 2005) (Excerpt) –Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 64 suspected terrorists and seized weapons caches during operations in northern Iraq Nov. 27 - Dec. 4.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Division detained two individuals suspected of attacks on Coalition Forces in Mosul Nov. 27. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 2nd Division detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity and confiscated a weapons cache during operations in Mosul Nov. 30. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division detained four individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul Dec. 1. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 2nd Division along with Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Battalion detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid in Mosul Dec. 4.
Iraqi Police in conjunction with Soldiers of 65th Military Police Battalion detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul Nov. 28. The Iraqi Border Patrol detained 12 individuals suspected of terrorist activity near the Syrian border Nov. 30 – Dec. 2.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained 12 individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Mosul Nov. 27 – Dec. 2. Soldiers from 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment discovered a weapons cache during patrols in Mosul Nov. 27. An Explosives Ordinance Disposal team recovered the cache for future disposal. Soldiers from 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul Nov. 28 – 29. Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Mosul Nov. 29.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained two individuals and seized a weapons cache consisting of a rifle, magazines, paraphernalia for making IEDs, multiple rockets and rocket propelled grenade rounds, during operations near the Syrian border Nov. 28. Soldiers from 2/3 ACR also seized a cache consisting of explosive instruction manuals and blasting caps. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapons cache south of Tal Afar Nov. 29- Dec. 2. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained 13 individuals suspected of attacking Coalition Forces and manufacturing IEDs, and seized bomb-making materials, compact discs of IED and suicide attacks, and a large amount of cash in Tal Afar Nov. 29.

Sgt. 1st Class Eric P. Pearrow

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

Sgt. 1st Class Eric P. Pearrow, 40, of Peoria, Ill., died in Baghdad, Iraq, on Nov. 24, when his M1A2 Abrams tank accidentally rolled over into a canal. Pearrow was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.

ISF along with MNF continue partnership to find Anti-Iraqi Forces

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (November 28, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 50 suspected terrorists, killed seven, and seized multiple weapons caches during operations in northern Iraq Nov. 19-26.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division along with Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity while conducting joint operations east of Tal Afar Nov. 20-25. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 2nd Brigade along side Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd ACR detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapons cache during operations in Tal Afar Nov. 20. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Brigade along side Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 3rd ACR detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations near the Syrian border Nov. 20.
The Iraqi Police, with assistance from Soldiers Stryker Brigade Combat Team soldiers killed seven terrorists during a raid in Mosul Nov. 20. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Division detained one individual suspected of terrorist activities during operations east of Mosul Nov. 22. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division along with 2nd Squadron, 3rd ACR detained one individual during operations Nov. 23. in Tal Afar. Iraqi Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 2nd Brigade in conjunction with 2nd Squadron, 3rd ACR detained two individuals Nov. 25 while conducting joint operations in Tal Afar.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade 3rd Division detained one individual during a successful cordon and search in Tal Afar Nov. 23. Seized in the operation were a rifle and RPK rounds. Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 3rd ACR detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations near the Syrian border and seized a weapons cache consisting of 86 122mm rounds in Tal Afar Nov. 19-23. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd ACR detained four individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapons cache during operations near the Syrian Boarder Nov. 21.
Soldiers from the172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Mosul Nov. 20-21. Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity in a successful raid in western Mosul. During the operation, Soldiers confiscated 30 boxes of explosive material, a timing device and a bundle of wire. Soldiers of 1-17 Infantry detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search of a residence in western Mosul Nov.22. Soldiers from the 65th Military Police Battalion detained one individual and seized a weapons cache consisting of rockets, mortars, and grenades in Mosul Nov. 24. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained 11 individuals while conducting operations Nov. 25 in Mosul. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment detained seven individuals while conducting operations in Mosul Nov. 25. Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations Nov. 24, east of Mosul.

SGT Denis J. Gallardo

The Department of Defense announced yesterday the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
SGT Denis J. Gallardo, 22, of St. Petersburg, Fla., died in Tal Afar, Iraq, on Nov. 22, from a non-combat related illness. Gallardo was assigned to the Army's 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, CO.
Our sympathy is extended to his family and fellow soldiers for their loss.

ISF continue joint operations to halt terrorist activity

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (November 19, 2005) –Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 65 suspected terrorists and seized weapons during operations in northern Iraq Nov 14-19.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division wounded and detained one individual after observing him with a weapon and hand grenade in Tal Afar Nov 14. The individual was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Iraqi Police detained an individual attempting to emplace an improvised explosive device in Tal Afar Nov 14. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division confiscated weapons during a raid in Tal Afar Nov 15. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Iraqi Army Division detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Tal Afar Nov 16. Suspects are in custody with no ISF injuries reported.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 13 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in and near Tal Afar Nov 17-18. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapons cache during separate operations in Tal Afar Nov 15-19. Soldiers from 4th Squadron 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained nine individuals suspected of terrorist activity near the Syrian border Nov 15. Soldiers from 1st Squadron 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity at a checkpoint near the Syrian Boarder Nov 18. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained 11 individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized several thousand U.S. dollars during separate operations in Mosul Nov 15-18. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment detained 17 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Mosul Nov 15-18. Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment seized a weapons cache during a search operation northeast of Qayyarah Nov 15. Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized several thousand U.S. dollars during separate operations in Mosul Nov 14. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Iraqi Security forces supported by Multi-National forces continue successful operations aimed at defeating terrorists in an effort to provide safety and security to the citizens of the region. Anyone with information on anti-Iraqi insurgent activities should call the Joint Coordination Center’s telephone numbers at 513462 or 07701623300.
TEXT PROVIDED BY THE TASK FORCE FREEDOM, MULTINATIONAL FORCE-NORTHWEST PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT LT. COL. ANDRE HANCE AT ANDRE.HANCE@MNBNW.IRAQ.ARMY.MIL

SGT Tyrone L. Chisholm

The Department of Defense has announced the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
SGT Tyrone L. Chisholm, 27, of Savannah, GA, died in Tal Afar, Iraq, on Nov. 11, when multiple improvised explosive devices detonated near his M1A2 Abrams Tank. SGT Chisholm was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, CO.

Security forces continue robust operations in northern Iraq

(TFF Press Release) (excerpt)
MOSUL, IRAQ (November 14, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 76 suspected terrorists and seized a number of weapons during operations in northern Iraq Nov. 9-14.
Iraqi Police along with Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 24 individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized AK-47’s during separate operations in Tal Afar Nov. 10-11. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 3rd Division detained 15 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in Tal Afar Nov. 13. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 2nd Division alongside Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment seized weapons during a search operation in western Mosul Nov. 11.
Soldiers from 2/3 ACR detained 12 individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized weapons during separate operations in Tal Afar Nov. 9-14. Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained nine individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations near the Syrian border Nov. 10-12. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained eight individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Tal Afar Nov. 12-13.

Tal Afar citizens collect money from Iraqi government

(TFF Press Release)
By Sgt. 1st Class Donald Sparks3d U.S. CAVALRY PAO
TAL AFAR, Iraq — City officials in Tal Afar began handing out more $4.5 billion Iraqi Dinar to the citizens of the city early Saturday morning.
The Iraqi Transitional Government allocated the money to provide every family (head of the household) 157,000 Dinar ($100) within Tal Afar, including displaced families, as compensation to mitigate past terrorist activity in the city.
More than 3,000 Iraqi soldiers and police, partnered with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, assisted the citizens as they came to collect money.
Tal Afar Mayor Najem personally greeted residents of the city as they stood in line to collect their money and gave words of encouragement and praise.
“This money is for you and your families,” Najem said to the crowd waiting in line. “This money will help you to buy necessary items for your children.”
Najem remarked that the people of Tal Afar were happy and upbeat after discovering the government provided money to the people – many of whom had suffered from terrorist attacks in their neighborhoods.
“This is a great day for the people of the city,” Najem proclaimed.
Reconstruction projects are underway in Tal Afar following the end of combat operations ridding terrorists from the city.
Schools are being renovated or built, water wells are being constructed, electricity and phone lines are being improved and installed, and roads are being repaved to restore the city’s quality of life.

Security forces take more weapons and terrorists off the streets in northern Iraq

MOSUL, Iraq –Task Force Freedom operations in northern Iraq netted 11 terror suspects and confiscated weapons and ammunition Oct. 28-31.
Soldiers from Task Force Freedom killed two terrorists and wounded another after being engaged with rocket propelled grenade and small arms fire hospital in northern Iraq Oct. 31. Soldiers evacuated the bodies to a local hospital. The unit searched the vehicle, discovering AK-47’s, a machine gun, hand grenades, and ammunition. Soldiers from 503rd Military Police seized a cache consisting of rolls of detonation cord, rocket propelled grenades and mortar rounds, a mortar tube, an improvised rocket launching tube, and 3,000 rounds of small-arms ammunition in eastern Mosul. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment seized a cache consisting of weapons and magazines, 200-7.62 linked rounds of ammunition, and 300 rounds of 9-millimeter ammunition in Tuaim.
In eastern Mosul Oct. 30, Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained four terror suspects during a raid. Soldiers from 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained an individual identified as wanted in connection with the death of an Iraqi Policeman. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained three more individuals identified for involvement in improvised explosive device activity and detained another individual suspected of terrorist activity during separate cordons and searches in Tal Afar and Tal Hajar. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search in Tal Afar.
Task Force Freedom Soldiers engaged and wounded two terrorists attempting to flee during a vehicle pursuit in central Mosul Oct. 29.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment seized weapons, scopes, and loaded magazines during a search in western Mosul Oct. 28. Weapons caches were confiscated for future destruction.

Security forces in the north continue to put down terrorist activities

MOSUL, Iraq – Iraqi security forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed two terrorists, wounded another, detained 78 suspected terrorists, and seized a number of weapons during operations in Iraq Oct. 24-28.
Iraqi Border Patrol officers detained four individuals suspected of terrorist activity at a checkpoint near the Syrian border Oct. 28. Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 3rd Battalion, detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity in Tal Afar Oct. 24.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Tal Afar Oct. 26-28. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapons cache of several artillery shells during separate operations south of Tal Afar Oct. 28.

Security Forces seize large caches, detain 72

(TFF Press Release) (excerpt)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 24, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed a terrorist, wounded one, detained 72 suspected terrorists, and seized a number of weapons during operations in northern Iraq Oct. 20-24.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Division alongside Soldiers from 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment seized three large weapons caches during separate operations in and around Tal Afar Oct. 23. The caches included over 100 mortar and artillery rounds, several rocket propelled grenade rounds, rockets, hundreds of rounds of small arms ammunition, an AK-47, improvised explosive device making material, and an RPG launcher.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized munitions during operations in Tal Afar Oct. 20. Soldiers from 1/3 ACR also seized a cache of rockets, rocket launchers, a rocket propelled grenade launcher with round, and a machine gun in Abra Little Oct. 21. The cache was confiscated for future destruction. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained an individual for conducting terrorist activity in Tal Afar Oct. 20.

Significant Strides Made in the Shadow of Operation Restoring Rights

(TFF Press Release)
By CW3 J.M. Hurtado 3d ACR
WESTERN NINEWA, IRAQ - The Third Armored Cavalry Regiment, partnered with the 3d Iraqi Army Division, captured five terrorists and nine smugglers in the past twenty-four hours. Two of these men are senior-level leaders responsible for planning and funding terrorism in the northern area of Iraq.
In the past 5 days, the Third Armored Cavalry Regiment and Third Iraqi Army Division soldiers have secured and destroyed more than ten-thousand pounds of explosives that terrorists intended for use against them and the Iraqi People.
Citizens of Tall Afar, emboldened by the greatly improved security situation here, are providing information that is leading to the capture of terrorists and the discovery of these weapons and military caches. During one raid, citizens applauded Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces as they led captured terrorists away.
Along the Syrian border, Third Armored Cavalry Regiment forces and Iraqi Border Police here captured nine smugglers as they were crossing into Iraq. The men were transporting illegal contraband that is being used to help fund the terrorists. The contraband was confiscated and all the men were transported to a holding facility for further questioning.

ISF and MNF continue sweep of terrorists and weapons

MOSUL, IRAQ (October 10, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National forces from Task Force Freedom, killed four terrorists, detained 63 suspected terrorists, seized weapons caches, and thanks to a citizen’s tip, defused an improvised explosive device during operations in northern Iraq Oct. 6-10.
An Iraqi citizen’s tip led Soldiers from 113th Engineer Battalion to the site of an IED in Mosul Oct. 8. The 113th was able to successfully defuse the IED with no injuries to civilians or MNF Soldiers reported.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Brigade, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Division detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search in Tal Afar Oct. 6. The detainees led IA Soldiers to a cache consisting of a mortar tube with bipod, hundreds of rounds of various ammunition, and a rocket propelled grenade launcher with ammunition. Suspects are in custody with no ISF injuries reported.
Iraqi Police alongside Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment seized a weapons cache during a search operation near Hamam Al Alil south of Mosul Oct. 6. The cache included 600 meters of detonation cord, multiple mines and more than 3,000 mine fuses, several blocks of C4, over 100 flares, more than a thousand blasting caps, and hundreds of grenade fuses.
Soldiers from 4-23 Infantry seized another cache consisting of TNT, hundreds of blasting caps, and 20 rocket boosters, several weapons and detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity and killed a terrorist after receiving small arms fire during separate operations in Mosul Oct. 8. On Oct. 9, Soldiers from 4-23 Infantry seized a cache from a vehicle consisting of mortars, a weapon, and various ammunition. The unit also detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity on Oct. 10 in Mosul.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment killed a terrorist after receiving small arms fire in Mosul Oct. 6. Soldiers from 1-17 Infantry detained another two individuals suspected of terrorist activity after receiving small arms fire in Mosul Oct. 9.
Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Mosul Oct. 7. Soldiers from 2-1 Infantry also seized several rockets while conducting a search operation in Mosul Oct. 7.
Soldiers from 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Mawali Oct. 7. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported. An aerial weapons team killed two terrorists who they observed engage a local national with small arms fire in Mosul Oct. 9.
Soldiers from 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized hundreds of rounds of ammunition, AK-47’s, and anti-U.S. documents during a cordon and search in Tal Afar Oct. 6. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 11 individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized multiple weapons during separate operations near Tal Afar Oct. 8. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Tal Afar Oct. 8. Soldiers from 2-325th Infantry detained 26 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Tal Afar Oct. 9-10. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Tal Afar Oct. 8-9. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment seized a cache of AK-47’s, sniper rifles, and several other weapons Oct. 9. The unit confiscated all weapons for future disposal. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Iraqi Security forces supported by Multi-National forces continue successful operations aimed at capturing or killing terrorists in an effort to provide safety and security to the citizens of the region.
Anyone with information on anti-Iraqi insurgent activities should call the Joint Coordination Center’s telephone numbers at 513462 or 07701623300.

Security forces capture terror suspects, seize weapons

MOSUL, Iraq (MNF) (excerpt)-- Multi-National forces from Task Force Freedom detained 48 suspected terrorists, seized weapons caches, and killed a terrorist during operations in northern Iraq Oct. 3-6. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained six individuals suspected of terrorist activity and killed a terrorist after receiving small arms fire during separate operations in Tal Afar Oct. 3-4.
Soldiers from 3rd ACR seized a weapons cache consisting of AK-47s with multiple magazines, a shotgun with a bandoleer, and an improvised explosive device. While reducing the cache, the unit engaged a suspected terrorist fleeing through a gully (wadi). The individual fled into a safe house where the unit conducted a raid and detained 11 suspected terrorists Oct 4.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search near the Syrian border Oct. 5. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported. Weapons were confiscated for future destruction.

ISF and MNF continue strikes against terrorists

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (October 3, 2005) – Iraqi security forces and Multi-National forces from Task Force Freedom including 172nd Infantry Brigade (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) and 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 49 suspected terrorists, killed two terrorists, injured another two, and seized weapons during operations in northern Iraq Sep. 30 - Oct. 3.
Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 4th Brigade Iraqi Army alongside Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade detained nine individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in western Mosul Oct. 2. Iraqi Police alongside Soldiers from the 2/1 Infantry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in central Mosul Oct. 2. Iraqi Police also seized a weapons cache during a search operation west of Mosul Oct. 3. The cache included mortar tubes, TNT, grenades, and mortar fuses.
Iraqi Police detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity and seized hand grenades from the individuals following an attack on their patrol in Tal Afar Oct. 1.
Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment detained eight individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Mosul Sep. 30 and Oct. 1. Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained six individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized weapons during operations in Mosul Sep. 30 – Oct. 2. Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during two separate operations in Mosul Sep. 30 and Oct. 1. Soldiers from 65th Military Police Company detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity after being attacked with small arms fire while patrolling in northern Mosul Sep. 30.Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment shot and killed two terrorists, injured another, and detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during operations in Tal Afar Sep. 30. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment shot and injured one terrorist and detained four individuals suspected of terrorist activity Sep. 30 and Oct. 2. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

Weapon, suspect captures a result of security force operations

TFF Press Release) (excerpt)
MOSUL, IRAQ (September 24, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom seized four weapons caches, detained 13 suspected terrorists, killed one and injured two terrorists during operations Friday and today.
Iraqi Police engaged and wounded two terrorists after receiving small arms fire in Mosul Friday. One individual fled and the other was transported to a local hospital.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed one terrorist after being attacked with small arms fire while patrolling in Tal Afar today. The 2/3 ACR also detained eight individuals suspected of terrorist activity during two operations in Tal Afar Friday. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search in Tal Afar Friday.

Security forces continue to pursue terrorists and weapons

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (September 21, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom have killed 11 terrorists, detained 52 others and seized several weapons caches since Monday.
Soldiers from Task Force Freedom killed three terrorists after receiving small arms fire in Mosul Tuesday. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment and Multi-National Forces also killed eight terrorists, wounded one, detained one and seized a weapons cache of small arms and ammunition during separate raids in Mosul Monday. Soldiers from 2-1 Infantry detained 21 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search in Mosul Tuesday. The unit also seized a weapons cache consisting of small arms and multiple rounds of ammunition in Mosul Tuesday. An Explosive Ordinance Team reduced the cache without incident. Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized a weapon with silencer and ammunition during a raid in Mosul Monday Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search in Tal Afar Tuesday. Soldiers from 1/3 ACR also detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid in Tal Afar Monday. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized a mortar tube with ammunition during three separate raids in Tal Afar Monday. The unit also detained 16 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate cordons and searches today and Monday. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment seized a weapons cache of small arms and ammunition in Tal Afar Monday. Weapons were confiscated for future destruction.

Security forces seize numerous weapons caches

(TFF Press release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (September 17, 2005) – Multi-National forces from 172nd Infantry Brigade (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) and 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained one suspected terrorist and seized six weapons caches during operations in northern Iraq today.
Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in eastern Mosul. Suspect is in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment seized five weapons caches during operations in Tal Afar. The caches included several rocket propelled grenade rounds and parts, several rifles, mortar rounds, and grenades. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Infantry Regiment seized a weapons cache during a cordon and search operation in Tal Afar. All weapons were confiscated for future destruction.
Iraqi Security forces supported by Multi-National forces continue successful operations aimed at capturing or killing terrorists in an effort to provide safety and security to the citizens of the region.
Anyone with information on anti-Iraqi insurgent activities should call the Joint Coordination Center’s telephone numbers at 513462 or 07701623300.

Combat operations in north lead to capture of terrorists and weapons

TFF Press Release
MOSUL, IRAQ (September 16, 2005) – Iraqi Security forces and Multi-National forces from 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment and 172nd Infantry Brigade (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) detained seven suspected terrorists, killed two terrorists, and seized three weapons caches during operations in northern Iraq today.
As a part of Operation Restoring Rights Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Division Iraqi Army and Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed two terrorists following an attack on their patrol in Tal Afar. In other operations there, Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained six individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized three weapons caches during search operations. The weapons were confiscated for future destruction.

Soldiers from the 172nd Infantry Brigade (SBCT) detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity while patrolling in eastern Mosul. Suspect is in custody with no MNF injuries reported.Iraqi Security forces supported by Multi-National forces continue successful operations aimed at capturing or killing terrorists in an effort to provide safety and security to the citizens of the region.

Operations in Tal Afar net capture of 78 terror suspects

(TFF press release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (September 13, 2005) – As a part of the ongoing Operation Restoring Rights in Tal Afar Multi-National forces from Task Force Freedom detained 78 suspected terrorists during operations there Monday.
In successful combat operations Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 57 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during two operations in Tal Afar. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 15 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in Tal Afar.
Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained four individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in Tal Afar. Soldiers from 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment also detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity while patrolling. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Iraqi Security forces supported by Multi-National forces continue successful operations aimed at capturing or killing terrorists in an effort to provide safety and security to the citizens of the region.

Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces round up 94 terrorists in Tal Afar

(TFF press release)
TAL AFAR, IRAQ (September 13, 2005) –Iraqi Army Soldiers and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom moved into their 11th day of Operation Restoring Rights by capturing 94 terrorists and killing one in Tal Afar Monday.
The operation has resulted in 341 terrorists captured and 22 caches seized, including six on Monday. The operation is designed to provide stable security in the city of Tal Afar. Operations to date have been an overwhelming success.

Security forces wrap up more terrorists and weapons caches

MOSUL, IRAQ (September 10, 2005) (TFF press release) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 44 suspected terrorists and seized weapons caches Friday and today.
Iraqi Police along with Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment seized a rocket launcher during a raid in Mosul Friday.
Iraqi Police Commandos along with Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 24 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search in Tal Afar. The unit also seized a mortar system with multiple rounds of ammunition. Iraqi Police detained 15 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search in Tal Afar. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment seized a cache consisting of hundreds of rounds of ammunition in Tal Afar. Soldiers from 2/3 ACR detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid in Tal Afar today. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search in Tal Afar Friday. Suspects are in custody with no ISF or MNF injuries reported.

Security forces kill and capture more terrorists

TFF Press Release
MOSUL, IRAQ (September 9, 2005)Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed 11 terrorists and detained 13 suspected terrorists Thursday and today.Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Brigade, 3rd Division along with MNF Soldiers detained seven individuals suspected of terrorist activity after receiving small arms fire in Ganus Thursday. Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment detained an individual suspected of terrorist activity during a raid in western Mosul today. Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity and seized an AK-47 during separate operations in eastern Mosul Thursday. The weapon was confiscated for future destruction. Suspects are in custody with no ISF or MNF injuries reported.
Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed ten terrorists engaged in movement of arms and ammunition in Tal Afar. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed another insurgent engaged in terror activity in Tal Afar Thursday. Security forces continue on the offensive to suppress terror operations. Coordinated efforts of Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom are leading to the arrest of terrorists and criminals responsible for attacks against innocent Iraqi citizens.

SPC Jeffrey A. Williams

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

Spc. Jeffrey A. Williams, 20, of Warrenville, Ill., died on Sept. 5, 2005, in Tal Afar, Iraq, where an improvised explosive device detonated near his combat patrol. Williams was assigned to the Support Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.

Elimination of terrorists steady in northern Iraq

(TFF Press Release) (excerpt)
MOSUL, IRAQ (September 8, 2005) –Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed seven terrorists and detained another seven Wednesday and today.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed four terrorists who they observed with weapons on a building preparing an ambush in Tal Afar Wednesday. Soldiers from 2/3 ACR killed three more terrorists after receiving small arms fire in Tal Afar today.

Operations ramping up against terror in northern Iraq

(TFF Press Release excerpt)
MOSUL, IRAQ (September 4, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed 13 terrorists, detained 18 suspected terrorists, and seized a weapons cache today.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed seven terrorists after receiving small arms fire during three separate incidents in Tal Afar. Soldiers from 2/3 ACR also detained five individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Tal Afar. Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed six terrorists after being engaged by rocket propelled grenade and small arms fire from a mosque in Tal Afar today. Soldiers from 4/3 ACR reported a secondary explosion from the mosque after engaging the terrorists. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

More finds aimed at improving security in northern Iraq

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (September 4, 2005) –Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 22 suspected terrorists and seized improvised explosive making material Saturday and today.
Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Division along with soldiers from 4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 22 individuals suspected of terrorist activity and confiscated a vehicle during a raid in Al Amalah today. Suspects are in custody with no ISF or MNF injuries reported.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment seized improvised explosive making materials, a shotgun, numerous rounds of ammunition, and protective masks during a cordon and search in Tal Afar Saturday. All items were confiscated for future destruction.

2LT Charles R. Rubado CWO Dennis P. Hay

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

2nd Lt. Charles R. Rubado, 23, of Clearwater, Fla., died on Aug. 29, 2005, in Tal Afar, Iraq, when his M1A2 Abrams tank came under attack by enemy forces using small arms fire. Rubado was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.

Chief Warrant Officer Dennis P. Hay, 32, of Valdosta, Ga., died on Aug. 29, 2005, in Tal Afar, Iraq, where his OH-58D Kiowa helicopter came under attack by enemy forces using small arms fire. Hay was assigned to the 4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.

Our sympathys extend to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of these two young men.

DOD announces death of 3rd ACR Soldier and another terrorist down with more detained

The Department of Defense announced the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Joseph L. Martinez, 21, of Las Vegas, Nev., died on Aug. 27, 2005, in Tal Afar, Iraq, where his dismounted patrol was engaged by enemy forces using small arms fire. Martinez was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.
Our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (August 30, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed one terrorist and detained nine other terrorists today.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed a terrorist who was attempting to attack Coalition Forces in Tal Afar.

NCO Academy Develops NCO Corps

3rd ACR Solder Staff Sgt. Donald Harris, instructor, Brave Rifles NCO Academy - Al Kisik, shown on the cover of July's The Mounted Rifleman instructing an Iraqi Soldier (right) and talking to Sgt. Baban Naseraldin Taha at the Brave Rifles NCO Academy - Al Kisik during a field training exercise (below).

The entire article can be read in .pdf format here: The Mounted Rifleman


The 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment is accomplishing great deeds in Iraq. A lot of it involves toiling behind the scenes helping train Iraqi's Soldiers to better protect their country and assisting the people of Iraq building a better life for their sons and daughters. News that rarely shows up in the Media accounts. The young men and women soldiers of the 3rd ACR have risen far beyond the combat training afforded them in the United States. They have become true builders of democracy and leaders in the search of Freedom for all. Terrorist beware. Our Army is multi-purpose.
Staff Sgt. Harris has a wife and 3 children waiting for him in Colorado and a proud Mom & Dad (me) in Florida.

Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces detained 85 suspected terrorists

MOSUL, IRAQ (August 17, 2005) (Excerpt)
Troopers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained eight individuals suspected of terrorist activity in Segar today. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

Bad day for a Terrorist

(TFF Press Release) (excerpt)
MOSUL, IRAQ (August 15, 2005)
Soldiers from 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed a sniper in Tal Afar Sunday.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained eight individuals attempting to cross the border south of Rabiah Saturday. Soldiers from the 3rd ACR also detained two individuals, suspected of terrorist activity, during a raid west of Tal Afar. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

Security Forces continue the fight against terrorism

(TFF Press Release) (excerpt)
MOSUL, IRAQ (August 12, 2005) – Soldiers from the 2nd Squadron 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment engaged and killed three terrorists armed with rocket propelled grenades in Tal Afar yesterday. Multi-National Forces also detained one individual at a checkpoint north of Tal Afar yesterday. No MNF injuries were reported during the operation.

Sometimes a "Thanks" is enough

A few days ago I received an email from a lady whose son, like mine, is currently serving with the 3rd ACR in Northern Iraq. The short note thanked me for the information I had posted to this Blog. All I did was search the internet and pick out any news I come across relating to our soldiers doing their jobs. She went on to say that news was scarce and "any news was better than no news". I could detect the worry she must be feeling every day. The lack of communication on a regular basis from our family member in Iraq and not knowing for sure that everything is 'okay' is a strain on of all the parents, spouses, children, and friends of our Soldiers serving in a War Zone. Our consolation may lie in the support we give each other and the realization that with God's help and the hard work of everyone fighting for the Freedom of Iraq and all the freedom loving people of the world, we will survive. I am proud of my son doing exactly what he is doing (whatever that is) and I know he has the very best training and equipment to perform his duty, and he will. I wouldn't have it any other way. But I worry. Thank You for showing the same concern and understanding we all share.

Offensive operations in northern Iraq net terror suspects and weapons

(TFF Press Release) Excerpts
MOSUL, IRAQ (August 10, 2005) – Soldiers from 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity at a checkpoint north of Tal Afar Tuesday. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (August 9, 2005) – Soldiers from the 3rd Armor Cavalry Regiment detained one individual at a checkpoint north of Tal Afar Monday. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained four individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid in Tal Afar today Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

Checkpoint yields suspected Terrorists

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (August 8, 2005) -- Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity at a checkpoint in Rabiah, near the Syrian border. Soldiers from 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained seven individuals suspected of terrorist activity during separate operations in Tal Afar and near the Syrian border today and Sunday.

Busy Day for 3rd ACR

TFF Press Release (excerpt)
MOSUL, IRAQ (August 4, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 28 suspected terrorists and killed five terrorists during operations in northern Iraq today and Wednesday.
Soldiers from the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed five terrorists in support of Iraqi Police who were being attacked in Tal Afar Wednesday. No MNF injuries were reported during the attack.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 15 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation northwest of Tal Afar today.
Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity while patrolling near the Syrian border Wednesday. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed one terrorist attempting to emplace an improvised explosive device while patrolling east of Tal Afar Tuesday.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment seized a weapons cache during a search operation northwest of Tal Afar Tuesday. The cache included sticks of explosives, detonation cord, and a blasting cap.

MOSUL, IRAQ (August 1, 2005)
Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 49 suspected terrorists, killed six terrorists, injured another, and seized two weapons caches during operations in northern Iraq today and Sunday.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 35 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during two raids northwest of Tal Afar today. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.
Coordinated efforts of Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom are leading to the arrest of terrorists and criminals responsible for attacks against innocent Iraqi citizens.

Raid nets Terrorists in Tal Afar

Iraqi Army 2 1/2 ton

TFF Press Release (excerpt)
MOSUL, IRAQ (July 29, 2005)
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained six individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid in Tal Afar Thursday. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

21 terrorist detained Sunday by 3rd ACR

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (July 25, 2005) – Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom detained 42 suspected terrorists and seized a number of weapons during operations in northern Iraq Sunday.
Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 18 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid northwest of Tal Afar. Soldiers from 1st Squadron also detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity while patrolling near the Syrian border. Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained three individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a raid west of Tal Afar.

Residents fleeing Tal Afar

MOSUL, Iraq (CNN) -- As U.S. soldiers construct a wall around the troubled city of Tal Afar to keep out fighters and weapons, residents are fleeing in fear of an imminent military attack by American and Iraqi forces against insurgents still in the city, according to a senior military commander.
"It's not a mass exodus right now, but people have moved out of the city along kinship lines," Col. H.R. McMaster, commander of the Army's 3rd Armored Cavalry, which is responsible for security in Tal Afar, told CNN.
Soldiers have been moving earth to construct a trench and a berm around Tal Afar, forcing traffic to go through rather than around security checkpoints. U.S. Army engineers in Mosul have recently completed a 64-kilometer dirt berm around that city to stem the flow of insurgents and weapons.
McMaster said he believes recent arrests in Tal Afar and at the Syrian border have significantly disrupted the insurgency's ability to operate. But he said insurgents and foreign fighters in parts of the city are continuing to terrorize the population.

Two 3rd ACR Soldiers killed in Tal Afar, One in Bagdad

The Department of Defense announced the death of three soldiers who were 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. PFC Woods was in the area to evacuate another soldier who had been wounded. PFC Woods was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.

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. SPC Bradfield was assigned to the Army's 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.

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.

Our sympathies go out to the families and friends of these young men.

SF kill 14 terrorists, detain five suspects

TFF Press Release

MOSUL, IRAQ (July 11, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed 14 terrorists and detained five suspected terrorists during operations in northern Iraq today and Sunday.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment killed 10 terrorists during an attack in Tal Afar today. In a separate operation Soldiers from the 2nd Squadron killed four terrorists after being attacked with small arms fire in Tal Afar Sunday. No MNF injuries were reported during the operations.
Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity during a cordon and search operation in eastern Mosul today. Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity while patrolling in western Mosul Sunday. Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained one individual suspected of terrorist activity during a raid west of Tal Afar today. Suspects are in custody with no MNF injuries reported.

3rd ACR Casualty in Tal Afar

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
SSG Jeremy A. Brown, 26, of Mabscott, W.Va., died July 3 in Mosul Iraq, from injuries sustained earlier that day in Tal Afar, Iraq, where the HMMWV in which he was riding accidentally rolled over. Brown was assigned to the Army's 66th Military Intelligence Company, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, CO.

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (July 5, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed one terrorist, injured another two, and detained six suspected terrorists during operations in northern Iraq today.
Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment were hit with small arms fire while patrolling in Tal Afar. They returned fire killing one terrorist and injuring another two. The injured terrorists will be detained following treatment. No MNF injuries were reported during the incident

July 4, 2005 The Face of FREEDOM

The reason America will never give up it's Independence

Security Forces continue to thwart terror in northern Iraq

(TFF Press Release)
MOSUL, IRAQ (June 27, 2005) – Multi-National Forces from Task Force Freedom killed one terrorist, injured two terrorists, detained 11 suspected terrorists, and seized three weapons caches during operations in northern Iraq today and Sunday.
Soldiers from 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment were attacked by terrorists with small arms fire while patrolling in Tal Afar today. They returned fire killing one terrorist and injuring another two. The injured terrorists will be detained following treatment

3rd ACR moving to Ft. Hood

By Dick Foster, Rocky Mountain NewsJune 24, 2005
COLORADO SPRINGS - Fort Carson will be host to one of the most modern divisions in the Army when the 4th Infantry Division returns to its longtime home after an 11-year absence.
The 4th, based at Fort Carson from 1970 to 1995, will bring its 19,000-plus troops to Colorado Springs in fall 2006, after its next yearlong tour in Iraq begins about October, Army Secretary Francis Harvey announced Wednesday. With units already at the post or scheduled to arrive, Fort Carson's troop strength is expected to reach nearly 27,000, compared with about 15,000 now.
In conjunction with the division's move, the 5,300-member 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment will move to Fort Hood, Texas. That could come when its current Iraq deployment is completed next March.
In Army logistics, the moves make sense by consolidating armor units at Fort Hood and an infantry division at Fort Carson.
"It will be like forces in like locations," said Army spokesman Paul Boyce at the Pentagon.
The Army had split the 4th Infantry Division in 1995, keeping one brigade at Fort Carson when it moved the rest to Fort Hood in 1995. That same year, the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, a bigger, heavier unit with more tanks and Bradley Fighting Vehicles than an infantry brigade, moved to Fort Carson from Fort Bliss, Texas.
Now, the 3rd ACR will join the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood after the 4th Infantry departs.
Over the past year, the 4th Infantry Division has been reorganizing along the Army's new "modular" concept, making each 3,800-soldier brigade more independent without having to move as part of an entire division.
Operations such as reconnaissance, military police and security, signal corps, engineering and logistics that were once controlled by the division are being parceled out to the brigades. The change is designed to make the Army more flexible, able to deploy in smaller or larger numbers as situations warrant around the world.
The 4th Division is also fielding all new tanks and has refitted weapons systems with the most modern command, control and communications equipment available.
At Fort Carson, the announcement of the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment's move to Fort Hood was accompanied by Army assurances that families will not be moved while the regiment is currently deployed in Iraq.
"This announcement is not a cause for concern," said Fort Carson spokesman Lt. Col. David Johnson. "We're not moving families. They're staying here until their spouses come home."
In Colorado Springs, though, preparations have been under way for months for expansion at Fort Carson, even before Wednesday's announcement of the division's return.
The division's move was greeted as good news by civic and business leaders who predicted an influx of $500 million to $700 million in new Army payroll, and perhaps $1 billion in construction on post to accommodate the new division.
Outside the post, the Army and local leaders have already identified two road improvement projects costing more than $200 million to ease expected congestion around the post.
"This is not a surprise to the community. In fact, we had projected growth in the military and hoped for it," said Mike Kazmierski, a former Fort Carson garrison commander and now interim CEO at the Colorado Springs Economic Development Corp. "And the impacts to the community are all manageable."

Hi DadHappy Fathers Day 

HAPPY FATHERS DAY

We Love You DAD

Raeven
K.J.
Faith

You are in our hearts and minds each day.

SSG Harris, 3rd ACR, sent me this picture from Iraq today. Nice Haircut

What kind of vehicle is this? Must have something to do with detecting or clearing objects on the side of the road. Am I close?
big arm

Push this

What the heck kind of vehicle is this? Looks like a minesweeper or IED finder. How close am I?

Donnie & Pa

3rd ACR in Tal Afar

BY TOM LASSETER, Knight Ridder Newspapers
TAL AFAR, Iraq - (KRT) - U.S. Army officers in the badland deserts of northwest Iraq, near the Syrian border, say they don't have enough troops to hold the ground they take from insurgents in this transit point for weapons, money and foreign fighters.
From last October to the end of April, there were about 400 soldiers from the 25th Infantry Division patrolling the northwest region, which covers about 10,000 square miles.
"Resources are everything in combat ... there's no way 400 people can cover that much ground," said Maj. John Wilwerding, of the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, which is responsible for the northwest tract that includes Tal Afar.
"Because there weren't enough troops on the ground to do what you needed to do, the (insurgency) was able to get a toehold." said Wilwerding, 37, of Chaska, Minn.
During the past two months, Army commanders, trying to pacify the area, have had to move in some 4,000 Iraqi soldiers; about 2,000 more are on the way. About 3,500 troops from the 3rd ACR took control of the area this month, but officers said they were still understaffed for the mission. [...]
When an attachment of 25th Infantry soldiers, doing a sweep in tandem with the 3rd ACR, came across a house near Rawah last week, they were expecting to sit down and talk with the locals about water quality.
In June 2003, American troops had destroyed an insurgent training camp in the area, killing more than 70 suspected fighters with helicopter strikes and a large ground offensive. It was one of the biggest camps discovered in postwar Iraq.
Last week, when the ramp of an armored vehicle began to open outside the house near Rawah, an insurgent shot a rocket-propelled grenade at it and other insurgents let loose with machine-gun fire.
The 25th Infantry soldiers responded first with .50-caliber machine-gun fire and then two shoulder-launched rockets. Four insurgents - three from Saudi Arabia and one from Morocco - were killed, Maj. Denny said. After the house caught fire, four more insurgents surrendered. They were from Syria, Jordan and Algeria.
"They'd come to Iraq to kill Americans; they were looking for jihad" - or holy war - Denny said.

For my son: Donnie 

Happy Birthday Harris

Happy Birthday son. I'm sure you had a great time. The Army surely gave you the day off. Just kidding. At least maybe you had a moment to enjoy good thoughts of your family back home. The next best thing to being there. We all love and pray daily for your safety and the safety of your Regiment and all the Soldiers in Iraq and Afganistan.