State Commander John Getz Visits

March 28-29

Cmdr Straight OnWebCropped.jpg KUWAIT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO UNITED STATES – My last day at Ali Al Saleem Air Base featured greeting more PA troops and experiencing what soldiers have told me was the worst sand storm they have seen. The high winds lasted all day and rattled everything. We had to put masks on and pull our hats down to go out.

Wheels up for my 12-hour flight to our nation’s capitol comes soon. Once at Dulles, a 52-minute flight to HIA will bring me back together again with my wonderful family as well as my extended family and friends in the PA VFW. Thanks for all of your support and prayers during this trip, which put in a lot of mileage to support the VFW’s ongoing mission of “honoring the deceased by serving the living.” I’m convinced that the important role of the VFW is as important today as it has ever been.

I was thinking about how to close this trip journal with a proper conclusion. The soldier that I learned the most about was CPT. Morando, who as noted in my earlier entries was my guide for the majority of time and also served as a public affairs officer who helped me a great deal to report stories back to you. She is the true model of what an American soldier should be: dedicated, professional, well trained, mission focused, and strong in both character and ability. She is a true patriot who loves freedom and who is motivated by knowing that her service makes life better for others. The other troops I met share the same impressive qualities.

From a mission perspective, 1SG David Zerbe (316th ESC PAO/215th MPAD) captured what is clearly in the hearts of the troops who I met, when he said: “You will have plenty to write about these troops, telling the PA VFW members, of all the great Americans you meet and who are willing to serve their country. Our mission here is a very worthwhile one that many of us believe in; we are doing the right thing. The Iraqi people are wonderful and family oriented. They are intelligent and willing to work hard, just as we did to build our own nation. Unfortunately, the media portrays a different picture and doesn’t often tell of all the good things taking place here.”

The next time you read a media story about the war I hope it includes comments from the troops that shine a well deserved spotlight on their accomplishments here and their passion for improving the world. Perhaps you have read or heard some of the coverage generated by this trip that praised the troops. If media stories that you come across don’t include the troops’ perspective, just remember all that you have read in this journal and you will have “the rest of the story.”

KUWAIT – March 27

AIR BASE OUTSIDE OF KUWAIT CITY – I’m enjoying the hospitality and camaraderie that is present at this base thanks in part to the PA Guard 283^rd PSD troops, who like everyone else on this trip have welcomed me and the VFW into their ranks. Please be sure to do the same when these and other troops return from service in the combat zones of this war. Find out when they are returning and make plans to give them a tremendous welcome back. In the meantime, get to know their families through their unit readiness support groups and help make their lives easier.

As the day of my return flight continues to draw near, I’ve had a lot of time to reflect about the troops I have met here and the mission they are on. Those who know me well realize that I am a very patriotic person, but as I leave my new Army Guard and Reserve friends behind at Anaconda, in Baghdad and in Kuwait I have become an even more proud American who knows that those defending our way of life and paving the way for freedom abroad are as capable and dedicated as any others who have gone before them. They are serving us well and I now know that they believe the VFW is doing the same for them and their families. We can earn their trust and support by providing them with the same high level of service, support and camaraderie that the VFW has been know for since the early 1900s.

It’s comforting to know that there are such well trained and honorable troops in the Guard, Reserves and Active Service—operating together as “One Army”—ready to meet whatever mission needs arise to defend our great country and to share freedom with the world. We are free because of the brave and those who went before them. Thank God for that and thank God for each of them!

I don’t have any new photos to share but here are a few more my stay at Anaconda.

Commander Getz proudly displays a coin given to him by CG Couch, and hands out another phone card to MSG Scott Ferguson.

Commander Getz explains the benefits of VFW membership to SPC Larry Nunez

IRAQ – March 26

KUWAIT – My route from Anaconda back to Kuwait was more direct than planned. Due to increased security threats around Baghdad, I was flown directly to the air base in Kuwait where I started my transition into the U.S. military side. It’s good that I was able to experience and tour the Green Zone in Baghdad last week because I may have gotten stuck there now for a while. I spent a little time at a sentry point in Baghdad and can tell you that our troops are truly putting their lives on the line there. Please pray for their safety and for a successful campaign for the cause of freedom for Iraqis.

As a tribute to the 213^th, with which I spend the majority of my time at Anaconda, I wanted to share some extra information with you about this elite Guard unit. The symbolism of the unit’s insignias go a long way in guiding the 213^th ‘s troops to such high levels of distinction.


SHOULDER SLEEVE INSIGNIA	DISTINCTIVE UNIT INSIGNIA

Shoulder Sleeve Insignia - Symbolism: Buff and scarlet are the colors associated with Army Support. The keystone represents the unit’s home state, Pennsylvania, the Keystone State, and the heart is adapted from the Group’s hometown symbol, Allentown. The scarlet arrowhead signifies the unit’s participation in the spearhead attack in the World War II Naples-Foggia Campaign. Scarlet reflects artillery heritage. The compass rose or star highlights the ability to provide support in any direction within the Group’s assigned area. The stars commemorate the participation of wartime service in the Civil War, War with Spain, World War I, World War II, Korea, and the War on Terrorism. The quad arrow represents the unit’s mission to provide support to all the varying branches of the Army, especially the Combat Service.

Distinctive Unit Insignia - Symbolism: The dome refers to the U.S. Capitol which was defended by Infantry elements of the organization during the Civil War period. The cross potent was suggested by the Seal of Puerto Rico and represents the unit’s service in the War with Spain. The demi-fleurs-de-lis refer to World Wars I and II when the unit participated in six campaigns in the first World War and eight in the second, with the arrow denoting the assault landing in the Naples Foggia Campaign. The keystone and heart, arms of Allentown, Pennsylvania, connote both the allotment and home area of the organization. The color red represents long artillery service.

Here are a few more photos from my stay at Anaconda.

Commander Getz gets a overview of activities performed by the Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) from Commander CPT Eric Turner and 1SG Kenneth Horst, and poses in front of an Armored Security Vehicle (ASV) at one of the motor pools on base.

Always a popular hit with troops, another phone card is presented to 1st Lt. Randall A. Hall, a member of the 213^th ASG.SGT, while SGT. Daryl Root signs up as a VFW member.

It is fitting for me to end my reports about the 213^th at Anaconda with this article that shows how the unit’s members dig deep to accomplish its important mission—an undertaking essential to the success of the Global War on Terror and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Their support of the troops in the field and the VFW’s support of them and all troops are time-honored traditions that continue to achieve modern-day successes day after day.

“Supporting the Troops”

By Capt. Holly K. Morando

Most Soldiers who have gone through Situational Training Exercise (STX) lanes training should be familiar with the basic concept of bounding over watch. Movement lasting no longer than four to five seconds, a buddy covering you while you are up and on the move, moving forward as a team one man at a time. Many actually refer to it as leap frogging. Though, do you remember the phrase you were taught to say while running to your next concealment position, in your head at least if not aloud?

“I’m up, they see me, I’m down.”

During their mission here in Iraq, the Soldiers under the Command and Control of the 213th ASG have taken the first two sections of that phrase to heart and restructured the last part to fit their mission here in Iraq. At every turn of the mission they have put their best foot forward and strived to set the example for other Soldiers to follow.

“We’re up, they’ve seen us, we’re staying!”

The history of the 213th ASG spans back to the days of the Civil War. First mustered into Federal service, April 1861, to defend the Nation’s capital at the call of President Abraham Lincoln, the unit earned the nickname “First Defenders.” Today the unit’s motto stands fast as “Honor First.”

In April of 2007, the Soldiers of the 213th were again called into Federal service 146 years later to serve in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 07-09. The unit previously served during the Global War on Terrorism in 2003. Guardsmen from across the state of Pennsylvania banded together to answer the call of defending freedom.

As the first and only Army National Guard brigade-level organization deployed under the Modular Combat Sustainment Support model, the logistical support provided by the 213th ASG has significantly contributed to both the war on terrorism and the success of Coalition and Iraqi forces promotion of peace and stability throughout Iraq. With the aid of two oversized Battalions, the 13th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB) and Task force 106, with a total of 14 companies and two detachments, under the 213th ASG they have had great success in their tasking to manage the largest General Support hub and Corps Storage Area in the Iraq Theater of Operation. In addition, while here on Logistical Support Area (LSA) Anaconda they provide Direct Support (DS) missions to maneuver elements in the Diyala Province.

The Soldiers of the 213th ASG primarily devote their time and resources supporting the war fighter. Deployed under a legacy Corps Support Group force structure, one third the size of its sister Sustainment Brigades, the 213th strives first and foremost to provide combat support and combat sustainment support operations to the war fighters in the Iraq Theater of Operations.

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While in Kuwait, I will make every opportunity to reach out to Pennsylvania troops here. The Pennsylvania Guard’s 283^rd Personnel Services Detachment, led by CPT. Watkins, has soldiers at the air base who are from Carlisle, Shippensburg and other towns in the Commonwealth. Many are excited about joining the VFW and I am grateful for the chance to get to know and share their stories. This is a critical entry point as persons going in country to support the war have to come through this air base with the help of the 283^rd troops. The role of the 283^rd once again shows that each unit in this war fills an important role, each one connected to getting the mission done.

IRAQ – March 25

LSA ANACONDA, BALAD – I am getting ready to head back to Baghdad and then on to Kuwait. Before leaving on my United Airlines flight scheduled for Friday, with arrival scheduled for Harrisburg on Saturday morning, I hope to see members of a PA Guard unit stationed at an air base near the Kuwait International Airport to hand out more phone cards and to thank them personally for their service.

I went to see the Commanding General of the base today and he was very thankful for the VFW and what we stand for. He is a VFW member who has large and important responsibilities, and he is doing an outstanding job based on what I have seen here.

In today’s report, I will use photos to show you some of what I have experienced here. Thanks to 213^th CPT. Morando’s good photographic eye for capturing a few highlights of my stay. Enjoy the photos. I hope to file another report before leaving the Middle East to come home.

Commander Getz is shown with Commanding Colonel Leonard and Commanding General Couch, and (right) CPT. Morando.

Commander Getz hands out Operation Uplink phone cards to troops and adds his name to the T-Wall created by 213^th SPC Wynton Bannister, the unit’s graphic artist.

SGT. Peggy Morris of Dallastown signs up for the VFW while Guardsman 1LT. Walter Hotch-Hill provides him with a review of Combat Logistics Patrols.

Commander Getz gives VFW Post 8861 (Johnstown area) member A1C Deborah Korenoski, who works at the base hospital, a phone card and poses with proud members of the 213^th.

IRAQ – March 24

LSA ANACONDA, BALAD – My primary reason for being here is to visit with the troops from the 213^th Area Support Group (ASG) and the Reserve Command’s 316^th Expeditionary Sustainment Command (ESC). I wanted to take the opportunity thank all of those who serve, in uniform, for their service to their country up close.

One point of particular interest is that the National Guard and Reserves have men and women who bring into theater experience and talent that some traditional active duty Soldiers may not possess. These are men and women who live day to day as civilians and stand ready to throw on their uniform at a moment’s notice to join the fight. Many of them have various life experiences, both civilian and military, that are passed along to their younger Soldiers. The older members of the unit use their years of experience, both civilian and military, to help train and teach the younger Soldiers while the younger Soldiers offer a new and updated view of various situations and many forms of technology in a rapidly evolving battlefield. The National Guard and Reserves are able to take on a lot of additional tasks because of the well-rounded life and job experiences they have, from their combined military and civilian outlooks.

When I arrived in country I knew there was a great, positive story here to combat some of the negative press I have been witnessing back home, and I immediately found one. The 213^th ASG departed for their tour in support Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) on April 23, 2007. After a three-month mobilization train-up at Fort Bragg, NC and additional training in Kuwait, the unit finally arrived in Iraq on July 10^th, 2007. Upon their arrival in theater they were entrusted, by their higher headquarters the 316^thESC, to manage the largest general support hub and corps storage area in the Iraq theater of Operations, while providing direct support missions to maneuver elements in the Diyala Province. This small guard unit, the 213^th ASG, at this time assumed direct responsibility for nearly 3,500 men and women and provided area support to nearly 12,000 on LSAA.

During their deployment in support of OIF, the 213^th ASG managed to execute over 2,400 combat logistics patrols and effectively overcame over 400 serious incidents, with over 250 of them involving hostile enemy engagements from improvised explosive devices. They also distributed over 3,400 tons of ice; 54,000 cases of MREs, 3.8 million cases of bottled water, 120 million gallons of bulk water and over 50 million gallons of JP-8 (fuel) to their Air Force counterparts, aiding combat operations. The 213^th ASG also managed the busiest air cargo hub in Iraq, moving close to 22,000 pallets of cargo by military and contracted air frame, managed various logistic activities to include, the Container Receiving and Shipping Point (CRSP), the Joint Distribution Center (JDC), and the only Joint Distribution Center in Iraq. These activities combined and received over 6,500 containers, shipped another 6,200 containers, processed over 300,000 lines of supply system items and built and staged nearly 18,000 pallets for ground movement. The 213^th is responsible for the completion of the Corps Distribution Center (CDC) on LSAA.

Entirely beyond its mission, the 213^th ASG has managed the two largest Logistical Transition Teams sourced out to the 316^th ESC. Their mission was to advise and mentor the Iraq 4^th and 5^th Army Divisions. The expert advice and mentorship these teams provided helped to expedite the transition from Coalition Forces control over to the Iraqi Army. They were instrumentally involved in improving protection for the Soldiers conducting combat logistics patrols and firmly committed to the counter improvised explosive device fight, streamlining communications by hosting routine strategy sessions.

The 213^th ASG was also responsible for over one-third of the perimeter force protection on LSAA with less than ten-percent of the base population, covering over 3.5 miles of perimeter fence line and managed and maintained over 15 perimeter guard towers.

The unit’s S1 Personnel or Administrative section maintained 100-percent accountability of over 3,400 Soldiers, located on LSAA and 13 other additional locations throughout the theater (including both Iraq and Kuwait). In addition, they operated an Identification (ID) or Common Access Card (CAC) center with an average of over 545 cards per month, since their initial tasking of the mission in September 2007. This number was three times the number of two other sites on base combined. The S1 also processed over 3,000 achievement awards, service awards, and badges combined; handled over 100 line of duty (LOD) investigations, over 300 Red Cross messages that lead to over 150 emergency leave requests approved, and processed over 400 casualty reports for the command.

The S2 Intelligence section provided intelligence estimates and information, supplying their subordinate battalions threat analysis for combat logistics patrols for an area spanning five multi-national division boundaries. Through tireless efforts, the S2 ensured the Commander and Battle Staff at all levels obtained a true command intelligence picture. The S3 Plans and Operations cell spearheaded the effort to fully automate the orders production process and executed expert planning and staffing of various critical sustainment operations. The transitions cell expertly tracked and managed the rotational guidance and transitions of 15 subordinate OIF units.

The S4 Group Supply section was responsible for increasing the operational readiness rate of equipment, equipment accountability, and material management. One of their various tasks was to manage operations of one of four Dining Facilities (DFAC) located on LSAA while also managing 15 subordinate units in all aspects of supply.

The S6 Communication and Information Management section took on the task of completely rewiring five different buildings located on LSAA, vastly improving connectivity for operations. They also managed and upgraded various aspects of the Command conference room data network, voice and audiovisual capabilities, replaced over 130 outdated computers and servers, and managed over 1000 support requests during the deployment.

In the 213^th ASG Judge Advocate General or legal section they help Soldiers with taxes, passport services, wounded warrior services, immigrations reviews, outside contracts, sexual assault, article fifteens, and court martial. The Combined Legal Center (CLC) run by the 316^th ESC and supported by the 213^th and members from their subordinate units is set up for actual trials, with a fully working courtroom. With the wounded warrior service if a soldier has been hurt and his family is in need of help they can give help to them. The war theater has changed from past experiences, and our government states that Islam is a religion of peace so if Muslims are called by derogatory names as in past conflicts, Soldiers will be punished.

The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) for the 213^th ASG has done projects not only on the company grounds but all over the base. There was a deck built in front of the company which is used for unit organizational gatherings and also used by other companies. They also constructed a Bocce Ball court, with the direction and help of the S1, Maj. Thomas Cannariato. There have been three different tournaments during the tour. As part of a deal worked between the HHC and another unit on base, the Soldiers in the HHC constructed a new deck around their “club” area, which goes all around the building. They also made repairs to the Sergeant of the Guard shed, which leaked and was in direct sun. A new roof and deck were constructed for cover and to improve the overall use of the building. They constructed shelves in the supply area, mailroom, and S1 shop area. This is a prime example where the citizen solider like our Pennsylvania National Guard and Reserve Soldiers show their well-rounded experience. There is no doubt they work to make deployed-life better for everyone around them. The Soldiers who did the brunt of the building projects did not have any prior experience in construction work, but in a matter of hours they were hard at work making life just a little better.

This is what I have found all over the compound where Guard and Reserve Soldiers work. They take the time to make life just a little more tolerable when being away from home for a lengthy deployment. In short, they take care of each other, their Active duty counterparts, and civilians.

Coming to Iraq as a media embed, part of my duties were to conduct a fact finding mission in order to get the true story, right from the view of the typical Soldier serving in the theater. It was my mission to let the citizens of Pennsylvania know what good I could find about our Guard and Reserve troops from Pennsylvania are performing.

When I arrived I was unsure what the mission of the 213th was but my eyes were opened.

One of the many areas they are involved with is the complete fuel farm for all area storage of fuel. Major Timothy Brooks and Captain Keith W McKeon, each which were awarded the Bronze Star for the work they accomplished, maintain the depot and served as my tour guides of this area. Major Brooks from Bethlehem, who works as a police officer in Bethlehem, is the Deputy support operations officer for the 213^th ASG is responsible for all logistics in the area which includes Class 1 (food, ice, and water), Class 3 (bulk fuel) and Storage Operations. His crew is here for a very important mission; they manage the incoming and outgoing distribution of supplies, where and when they are needed. There is no doubt that the troops in the field would be lacking if it were not for the 213^th ASG. Master Sergeant Vincent Tarantella spends his days in the bulk fuel farm, working alongside contractors to ensure that the various types of fuel get where they need to go.

The support that the 213^th provides to the troops does not end with supplies. There are many Soldiers in the unit that provide much needed administrative support to other Soldiers located throughout the theater. One of those Soldiers is Sergeant First Class Mary Alice Blaine from Shickshinny. Married with three children, the eldest who just signed up for the Marines, Blaine serves as the Command Group Executive Administrative Assistant. Her days are spent managing correspondence, tracking calendars and ensuring that the work flow in the Command Group flows as smoothly as possible. She said the unit has received numerous care packages and overwhelming amount of support from citizens back home. One of the tasks she took on was managing the Command correspondence program, to thank all of the unit’s supporters back home.

Another Soldier that helped to ensure that the mission ran smoothly (not only for the 213^th but for the base in general) was Sgt. Peggy Morris, who started off the deployment as the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of the awards section in the S1 shop. Morris demonstrated the need for flexibility in a Soldier when her mission changed dramatically and she was handed the task of providing area support for Identification or Common Access Cards (CAC) in September 2007. Morris, a resident of Dallastown, is the mother of five including a son born just months before the deployment. When asked how she felt leaving such a small child behind (he was around six-months old when the unit departed Allentown last April), she responded that she was just doing her part.

Among the Soldiers in the 213^th ASG there are several different unique family relationships. There is a father-daughter team, both supply specialists in the unit. One of the Soldiers had the opportunity to not only serve but live in the same room with his father. The unit even has a couple who married shortly before their departure last April and spent their “newlywed” time living and working in a combat zone. There are even Soldiers who graduated or attended schools (both military and civilian) together. Overall, the unit has an atmosphere unique to the National Guard and Reserves, one of camaraderie that reaches beyond the bonds developed as a Soldier. Many of these Soldiers live and work in the same areas. Their children may attend school together. They may shop at the same grocery stores or attend the same social functions. Though as they have demonstrated over the past year, they do not let their camaraderie end within the lines of their unit; they ensure that every Soldier, Airmen, Marine, Coastguardsmen, Sailor, and civilian is taken care of as one of their own.

IRAQ – March 22 - 23

LSA ANACONDA, BALAD – We had a nice Easter Service and I hope everyone back home enjoyed a meaningful Easter celebration with their families. I was able to view the camp and areas outside the wire from Guard towers where I took some photos. I plan to show photos I have snapped over here to VFW delegates at our Convention, so I look forward to using pictures to share this trip with you.

We went to the large hospital on base again and it was a busy place. On your behalf I thanked many people for what they do and told wounded troops that the VFW supports them. The dedication of the nurses, doctors and other staff is just as evident here as everywhere on the base and outside of the gates. I had the pleasure of recording a public service announcement for Armed Services TV about troop support and how the VFW is ready to serve the troops. We did a radio version of that PSA, too, as well as a PSA for the 213^th and 316^th. We also recorded a VFW announcement for use by the Pentagon to recognize the 100^th anniversary of the Army Reserves. The promo was shot in front of the mosque that CNN uses in the background of their reports from Iraq.

I have been really busy here and have been fully embraced by the troops. In my reporting roles for the VFW I may be here as a media embed but I am thankful for the VIP treatment that the 213^th and 316^th as well as by everyone who I have met has given me.

I have a few more days at Anaconda before boarding a Blackhawk to begin my return to Baghdad, then on to Kuwait for my flight back to Dulles/Harrisburg. I cannot fully say in words how well the troops here and those I met on my way to the camp play live the role of brave and honorable U.S. servicemen and women every day. I have said it before but it deserves to be said over and over: our nation is free today because of the service of those in military uniform and the troops fighting the War on Terror are playing a vital role in keeping us free as the greatest nation in the world. Combat veterans from earlier wars can hold their heads high knowing that the fine tradition of service they helped to establish is being upheld, and these troops should hold their heads high, too.

As the total number of American troops killed in this war hits 4,000, I ask each of you to do something special today to honor the service of those who gave their lives to this worthy cause. Please pray for those in harm’s way and their families back home. We in the VFW family know what it is like to put our lives on the front line to defend and promote freedom, so let’s work extra hard to reach out to today’s troops, younger veterans and their families. You can make a world of difference to these brave Americans who through their service are changing our world and the lives of others across the globe.

I want to encourage VFW posts to work through local Family Readiness Groups. Get addresses for where to send packages and learn when troops are coming home. While those of us who are Vietnam veterans may not have received the welcome home reception that we deserved, let’s not let that happen again to another generation of combat veterans. Find out when planes, buses and other means of transportation are bringing troops back to their home areas and let’s be there in strength to say thanks and to offer the support of the VFW.

Fast Facts about the War on Terror (Sources include U.S. Army website and the Department of Defense): September 11th was not the beginning of terrorism. International terrorists declared war on the world's nations years ago, and over decades, terrorists have killed thousands of Americans and citizens of other countries. Since the September 11th attacks, the United States and coalition forces expanded its attempts to find, attack and dismantle terrorist groups, and much progress has been achieved in the Global War on Terror which includes the Middle East. The Taliban regime has been severely weakened and is disjointed; Pakistan, which once supported the Taliban, is now a strong ally against terrorists; Saddam Hussein was put on trial and sentenced to death; Uday and Qusay Hussein are dead; Iraqis are forming a representative government A.Q. Kahn's clandestine network that had provided nuclear technologies to Libya, North Korea and possibly other nations, has been shut down; Libya's Moammar Gadhafi has given up his nuclear weapons program; and numerous terror plans have been intercepted and prevented. Osama Bin Laden has been kept on the run and backed into corners by the intense pressure of the war. By eliminating and disabling some of the world’s worst terrorists and entire terror networks, these and other successes in the War on Terror have greatly reduced the ability of enemies of freedom to kill innocent and free people.

IRAQ - March 21

LSA ANACONDA, BALAD – My tour of the base continues and with each stop I gain greater respect for the duties of troops here and how important each one is to the overall mission. All VFW members know that nothing happens on the front lines without support and materials from bases like this one. If supplies are needed for a mission or just to keep the base running, the 213^th takes care of it. I was escorted to a large fuel depot that the unit manages and it provides 3.2 million gallons of fuel for the air base and areas outside of the wire.

While reports in the media and polls might lead you to think few support the War on Terror, I’m hearing the opposite from the troops. I make it a point to ask them how they feel about being over here. No one prefers to be away from home in a combat zone, but repeatedly I hear that they know they are here for an important reason. They also know that the VFW continues to have an important purpose: to look out for veterans, troops and their families, and to improve their communities. Members of the Guard 213^th and Reserve Command’s 316^th continue to sign up to show their support of what we in the VFW do and to become part of our extended family. They also know that their support will help us make sure troops and veterans of the future receive proper treatment from lawmakers, the VA and every aspect of society.

My trip here to honor the troops has generated positive news coverage back in Pennsylvania. At State HQ, David Sandman has been working hard to arrange for media stories to get as much publicity as possible about the good work our troops are performing. With the help of the PAOs here, I did an interview with KQV News Radio in Pittsburgh and the station ran several news stories. Before coming over here, WHP Radio in Harrisburg interviewed me as did the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. All of this helps government officials, the media and citizens understand everything that our troops are doing for the cause of freedom and our security, and that the vast majority of troops support the mission of preserving and spreading freedom.

For those individual VFW members, post, auxiliaries and businesses who support Operation Uplink, you should feel proud. The phone cards are a big hit and I wish I could give each Pennsylvania soldier ten of them. I visited the large Air Force hospital on base here and connected with Debroah Korenoski, an AF nurse and member of Post 8861 in the Johnstown area. I gave her a phone card and 50 more to allow injured troops to contact their families. She really appreciated the cards and said that the patient's morale would be lifted by being able to call home. Please keep supporting this program. We all know what it is like to be deployed into a combat zone and how nice it is to hear the voices of those we hold dearest. To donate or request a card, visit http://www.operationuplink.org.

There are many other ways you can show your support of Guard, Reserve and Active Duty personnel. By serving today’s newest generation of combat veterans, we can show them that the VFW is more important than ever before. I challenge all posts to take their support of military units and their families to a higher level. No post should be without an active military support program that is in motion all year.

Singing off for now. Hope to have more stories about tours on base and my interactions with troops. I look forward to the possibility of attending some briefings and spending time with the 213^th’s Chaplin Bruce Farrel.

Fast Facts about Balad: The bustle of military activity in Balad is evident as noises from fighter aircraft, helicopters, vehicles and personnel blend together at a large air base, home of Anaconda, which spreads over 15 square miles within the Sunni Triangle. The air base was known as Al-Bakir Air Base during the Saddam Hussein era. Today this vital base serves as a central hub for air and ground operations. The Army uses the base as a major distribution source for convoys and to set out on combat missions. Air Force F-16 fighters, Army helicopters and Army military intelligence unmanned aerial systems all fly from this base. F-16's enter combat zones almost as soon after wheels up and they can reach any part of Iraq within 15 minutes.

IRAQ - March 20

(Commander Getz arrived in Balad on March 19 after nearly 7,000 miles of travel.)

LSA ANACONDA, BALAD – The trip from Baghdad to the camp was exciting. In fact, getting from Kuwait to here has been the highlight so far. The “Rhino” ride on the ground from BIA to the Green Zone was interesting as the troops in the convoy prepared for everything and expected anything. The hop from Baghdad to Anaconda included a low and fast helicopter flight while sitting next to the machine gunner and other troops. I bumped into some reporters at the media processing point in Baghdad and they seemed bent on reporting about the destruction and not much interested in stories about the troops.

Every soldier I have spoken to along the way here is upbeat and focused on his or her work; totally professional and doing their best. They believe in the mission. These outstanding Americans are continuing the fine tradition of our military defending freedom and bringing a better way of life to others. Their determination and effort matches that of combat veterans in any war. Their service is meaninfgul and their sacrifices are well known by their brothers and sisters in the VFW.

Since my arrival at Anaconda I have been given VIP treatment by the 213^th and 316^th. After a nice dinner with SFC David Zerbe (215th MPAD PAO working with the 316^th), who was assigned to greet me upon arrival, I visited the camp PX before settling down last night. I can now focus on getting to know and thank the terrific men and women of these units as well as other PA troops here.

I am staying with the 316^th in a building made during the Saddam era to house Iraqi troops. I came over here to support the mission of the troops and their individual contributions, and I am pleased that the troops appreciate my being here. They are impressed that the Pennsylvania VFW would go this far to support them. Many are eager to join; many others are already members. They have great feelings for the VFW and that’s encouraging for the future of our great organization.

CPT. Holly Morando, who like many in this war, serves dual roles as an S-1 while also fulfilling PAO duties for the 213^th. Staff at Department HQ feel a special bond with this unit. CPT. Morando, whose father is a VFW member at Post 6168 (Shippensburg), has been instrumental in working with our State HQ as we adopted their unit and as we planned this trip. We just printed a photo of 213^th soldiers on the front page of Pennsylvania VFW News. Items sent to us by the 213^th, including a flag flown over this camp, are being prepared for display. For all Pennsylvania VFW memebrs who signed large troop support banners for presentation to 213^th and 316th, thanks for your messages. The banners hang proudly here where soldiers see them every day.

CPT. Morando is helping me touch base with PA Guard troops with the 283^rd Personnel Services Detachment in Kuwait for a possible trip to their camp in Kuwait on my return leg.

Both units have scheduled plenty of introductions and activities for me to do. I’ve met the 213^th’s Commanding Colonel Brian Leonard and other officers, plus troops from both units. I just toured a support field depot and will get a windshield tour of the entire base. I was proud to watch the presentation of a Bronze star. Later I will witness field promotions and participate in Holy Week services. The food is great and the troops gets as much as they want.

We had incoming mortar rounds today and I’m told to expect more; that’s nothing new for the troops. Day temperatures are above 100.

VP Cheney just left Anaconda and I’m sure he appreciated the great care he received while being handled by the 316^th.

I will interview soldiers from both units to share their stories with you so they can gain the respect and recognition they so fully deserve.

Fast Facts about the 213^thand 316^th: The 213^th provides logistical support for up to 30,000 troops. During war, the unit can handle command and control for 10-15 units of combat forces consisting of soldiers from the Guard, Reserve or Active Duty ranks. The 213^th can conduct reception; staging; onward movement and integration operations; coordinate host nation support in area of responsibility; provide direct support and general support maintenance/supply support and field services to units in or passing through area of responsibility; and control and coordinate physical security and rear area operations within the area of operations. The unit’s support of the War on Terror including being mobilized in 2003 as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and now its service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. After training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, the unit deployed serving in Afghanistan and Uzbekistand. Unit history also includes supporting NATO peacekeeping operations in Bosnia, being called to active Federal service in 1997 in support of Operation Joint Endeavor/Guard, service in other theaters and playing critical roles in high-profile war training excercises. Organized in 1849, the 213^th’s proud history also includes service in the Civil War, the Spanish American War, World War I and World War II.

Based out of Coraopolis (PA), the 316^th is the U.S. Army’s first Expeditionary Sustainment Command, a transformation-era modular unit, to deploy to Iraq, and has more than 400 Soldiers from many states and three countries. The unit was mobilized, trained and deployed by First Army, which has nationwide responsibility for the mobilization, training and deployment of all National Guard and Army Reserve Soldiers. The 316^th is the leading Army Reserve’s “deployable model” for future military operations around the world to provide command and control to all sustainment forces in Iraq. Its members handle everything from bullets to beans from fuel to maintenance parts to coordinating certain human resources (liaison teams, personnel replacements). The unit provides support and training to Iraqi Security Forces logistical units, assists in the development of Iraqi logistical infrastructure and systems in order to set the conditions for self-sustaining Iraq Security Forces and re-deployment of coalition forces.

(Satellite image of Balad Air Base and Camp Anaconda, shown next to the Tigris River, provided by Google Earth)

IRAQ - March 19

KUWAIT TO BAGHDAD – After traveling on a C-130 transport from Kuwait into Baghdad International Airport, ending with a combat landing that created enough pressure to squeeze my water bottle flat, I arrived at CENTCOM in the capital city courtesy of a 2 a.m. convoy ride with gunners at the ready. We had helo cover overhead and the roads ahead of us were swept for mines as we moved forward. It’s one day shy of the 5^th anniversary of the invasion of Iraq and I am in the city to have my embed credentials processed. It’s been an exciting and eye-opening trip so far. Sleep has been limited as I always seem to be in transit. We all know that military transportation can be a matter of “hurry up and wait,” but there are a lot of logistics to work out for each trip. My experience thus far has been a good one.

I’ve met some Pennsylvania troops during my travels in country so far; more to come later. Getting to my destination of LSA Anaconda requires traveling about 50-miles north to Balad where thousands of U.S. military personnel are stationed at the large Balad Air Base. This is the center of a tremendous amount of military activity supporting this war.

I have not taken many pictures due to military restrictions but hope to send along a few to include in my reports. Hello to everyone in Pennsylvania and thank you for your prayers and good wishes. I will keep my head down and will share more when I transition into the hands of the PA Guard 213^th ASG and the 316^th ESC.

Fast Facts about Baghdad:

Baghdad was founded in the 8th century and is the center of air, road, and rail transport in the country. The city extends along both banks of the Tigris River. Today, U.S troops operate from camps within the city. The U.S. headquarters sits in the Convention Center inside the International Zone. As the war progressed, engineers from the 1st Armored Division built half a dozen camps, dubbed Enduring Camps, to improve living quarters for soldiers and to allow the military to return key infrastructure sites within the Iraqi capital to the emerging government. The largest of the camps is Camp Victory, northeast of Baghdad International Airport. During the war, there have been many forward operation bases throughout the city. As of early February 2004, there were 26 US bases in the Iraqi capital, down from 60 in the summer of 2003. Many were closed as U.S. troops redeployed to the outskirts of the city. For more details on Baghdad visit http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/iraq/baghdad.htm

Satellite photo of Iraq (the International Zone was formerly the Green Zone) as shown on the www.globalsecurity.org

March 17th

KUWAIT – I received a very appreciated nice welcome at the public airport by two Pennsylvania Reservists serving as my transition team to help me move from the civilian side through military security and to a local air base. Lots of thoughts went through my mind during the 6,500-mile flight from Washington to where Saddam Hussein’s invasion in 1990 caused the first Gulf War. Everything from how glad I am to live in a free and safe country and how I felt leaving for my tour in Vietnam to how much confidence I had that I would be taken good care of by our troops. Once on land, getting my VISA took some time, but we made it to the base after going through many layers of security. I am already impressed by conduct of our troops and the measures being taken to keep danger outside of military areas.

I tried to get some sleep, but the change of time zones made that a challenge. Looking up from my pillow at a tent brings back memories from my Army days, but the air conditioning quickly reminds me that I am in a more modern setting. The temperatures are already getting into the 90s during the day and the hot season isn’t even here. I’ve heard stories from my son and others who have served in country that summer days get well above 100. It is 82 degrees at 9:45 p.m. It’s dusty as I was told to expect.

Looks like my 300-plus mile trip from here to Baghdad courtesy of the U.S. military may come soon. My itinerary includes numerous days coming in and going out of the embed to wait for transportation to open up. Anyone who has been deployed or who has waited on the other end knows that’s to be expected. Signing off to get some sleep before leaving for Baghdad.

Fast Facts about Kuwait: Saddam Hussein ordered his military forces to invade Kuwait in August 1990. With Operation Desert Shield in place to prevent an invasion of Saudi Arabia, a coalition of 34 nations, led primarily by the United States, made quick work of Iraqi forces to repel them back across the Kuwaiti border. With Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf serving as the main gathering areas for coalition forces, the Gulf War included Operation Desert Storm which launched in January 1991 as the primary campaign of air and land units that ran over Iraqi opposition. A peace conference was held in February on Iraqi territory occupied by the coalition. Kuwait is used today as a major staging area for troops and materials being used in the War on Terror. For more information on the Gulf War visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_War.

March 15/16 – U.S. to the Middle East:

“A quick hop from Harrisburg to Washington and a non-stop 12-hour flight from Dulles International Airport to Kuwait City took me from home into another part of the world where many U.S. troops call their temporary home as they fight to protect our freedom and to give freedom a fighting chance in Iraq. Many people have asked me why visiting deployed troops is one of my top priorities. It’s simple: the men and women serving our nation and the world in the War on Terror should know that combat veterans from all wars support them and that we honor them for their service. I believe that the sacrifices, bravery and successes shown by Pennsylvania troops in this important fight against the enemies of freedom is as important as any contributions made by other combat veterans in our history. I want to shake their hands to let them know the VFW stands behind them all of the way. Thanks to everyone who sent me emails and who called me to support this trip, which includes traveling from Kuwait to Baghdad before moving on to LSA Anaconda in Balad, 50 miles north of Baghdad. I hope to be there by mid-week.

I hope that all of my brothers and sisters in the VFW show veterans of this war and those headed over for their first deployment that we recognize them as modern patriots who put freedom before everything else. I ask all posts to make sure that they are supporting deployed troops. If anyone needs help locating a unit to adopt please call Department HQ in Harrisburg. You can also contact Family Readiness Groups at local military units to see how you can support troops’ families during and after deployment. Remind them about the VFW’s military support programs which include emergency financial grants and scholarships.

With the Pennsylvania Guard’s broad involvement in the War on Terror, every Guard unit across the state has sent soldiers into combat zones over the past decade. When you see someone in your community wearing a uniform please stop them to say thanks and to offer support. We need to serve the newest wave of veterans well to gain their trust and to show them why the VFW continues to be the most elite veterans organization in the world.”

Fast Facts about Pennsylvania Military’s: As has been the case historically, troops from the Commonwealth continue to play a leading role in defending freedom. There are more than 1,200 Pennsylvania Guard troops currently serving overseas to support the War on Terror and more than 6,000 deployments are expected during 2008. Since the beginning of the war 17,000 Guard troops from the Keystone State have been deployed, plus many more Pennsylvania Reserve and Active Duty soldiers. One hundred and twenty-eight Pennsylvania Guard troops have made the ultimate sacrifice in the war.