Please ensure widest distribution of this publication Georgia DOD Home Click on headlines for full stories or details First Friday Briefing for January 2006 Deployment Update 117th Air Control Squadron Deploys The Georgia Air National Guard's 117th Air Control Squadron deploys to Iraq in January as an integral component of AEF 9&10. The deployment marks the second time the Hunter AAF-based Air Guard unit has deployed to the region in the past five years. The deploying air control package includes more than 180 Georgia Air Guardsmen joined by approximately 100 Puerto Rico Air Guardsman from the 141st Air Control Squadron. During the six-month deployment, the Guardsman will have responsibility for complete airspace management of the area, marking this deployment as the first time that an Air Guard Air Control Squadron assumes complete control of all air resources in the area fighter, tankers and airlift. More 6-year-old David Butler helps his grandfather with a two-star epaulet. Nesbitt Pins On Second Star In a packed-to-capacity auditorium filled with friends, family and fellow Guardsman, Georgia Army National Guard Commander Brigadier General Terry Nesbitt pinned on the second star of a Major General at promotion ceremonies held at the Finch Auditorium at Dobbins on December 16. This is the first time in Georgia National Guard history that the TAG and the two senior command positions in the Georgia Army and Air National Guard were occupied by Major Generals. More Dixon Takes Command of 283rd Lt. Col. Tom Dixon has been appointed as the Commander of the 283rd Combat Communications Squadron replacing Lt. Col. Bill Day. Dixon moves into the position of commander following more than a year as Deputy Commander of Dobbins 283rd. The official change of command ceremonies are scheduled for January 21, 2006. According to Maj. Gen. Hammond, "Lt. Col. Dixon is one of Georgia's foremost experts when it comes to communications requirements and capabilities on the battlefield. This combined with his extensive knowledge of the 283rd's various strengths and weaknesses makes him the hands down choice to lead the unit." More Chick-Fil-A, Others Contribute To Family Support Foundation The Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation continues to receive significant support from individuals and communities around the state. In November, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce announced a major fund raising campaign with an overall goal to raise $1 million to benefit National Guardsmen and other service members, and families. More 124th MPAD Coordinates Exciting New G-RAP Program Will Pay Soldiers to be `Recruiting Assistants' In a few weeks, Wesley Buford of Jackson will attend his first drill with the Georgia Army National Guard, thanks to a unique recruiter: Pvt. Matthew Eubanks. Buford is the first enlistee under a new program in Georgia titled (Photo courtesy Atlanta Journal Constitution) 'Baby Noor' Story Paints Compassionate Story of War in Iraq Amidst the many headlines of war has come a story that has touched the hearts of many as a three month old Iraqi infant has been rescued from certain death by the concern and compassion of Georgia Guardsmen serving in war-torn Iraq. Known as "Baby Noor", the Iraqi child was discovered by members of Charlie Company, 121st Infantry during a raid near Abu Ghraib in search for insurgents. The child was born with spina bifia, a debilitating condition that if not treated would have certainly have killed the child within weeks. Baby Noor has survived the odds by living for almost three months. More Other stories about the 48th Brigade q 48th BCT Soldiers Deliver School Supplies To An Nasiriyah Children q Soldiers from US and Italy Team to Play Sandlot Soccer q Water Plant Powers Up Generator provides continuous Source of power A look at what happened this month in Georgia National Guard history A Glimpse During War At Three Georgia National Guard Organizations In Federal Service: 1918- The 151st Machine Gun Battalion, Georgia National Guard, federalized for WWI and assigned to the 42nd Division, was assembled at Villers sur Suize (Haute Marne), France. They spent the month there for training purposes before going forward to the front lines and received equipment such as Hotchkiss machine guns, helmets and gas masks. Governor's News Conference from Iraq When Governor Sonny Perdue visited Georgia Guardsmen in Iraq in November, one of the first groups of Soldiers he unexpectedly saw was the 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment from Atlanta. The public affairs unit, which mobilized in September, coordinated the televised press conference featuring Perdue and the other Governors he travel with. The 124th MPAD is assigned to the Coalition Press Information Center (CPIC) in the International Green Zone in Baghdad. More 122nd Rear Operations Center Plays Key Role in Rebuilding Iraq The Georgia Army Guard's 122nd Rear Operations Center, stationed in Mosul, Iraq, has played a high-profile role in recruiting former Iraqi Army officers and NCOs. The unit's Iraqi Security Force (ISF) cell organized a recruiting seminar in a high security area with over 180 former officers attend along with local sheiks and mayors. More the Guard Recruiting Assistance Program, or GRAP. And for his efforts in identifying and helping recruit him, Pvt. Eubanks could eventually earn $2,000. More Garrett (right) Being Interviewed during an SDF exercise Grarrett Succeeds Bardoul As SDF Command Sgt. Major Change is clearly the 2006 byword for Georgia's State Defense Force. Not only is there a new commander, but its top NCO is stepping aside after 8-years to take on a new mission, and a new Command Sergeant Major is on the job. Replacing the venerable Peter Bardoul as Command Sgt. Major is Randy Garrett, a former Georgia Army Guardsman, who before retiring from the Guard and joining the SDF, was the top NCO for the 265th Engineer Group. Bardoul will now become Command Sergeant Major for the Ready Reserve and will also "spearhead the formation of a Field Band along with a Drum-Bugle and Bagpipe Band, and help the Recruiting Branch," he noted. 1943- The 128th Observation Squadron, the Georgia National Guard's first air squadron, federalized for WWII, was stationed at the Army Air Training Depot at New Orleans. There they conducted anti-submarine missions in the hunt for Germany's deadly U boats and trained in low altitude bombing and aerial gunnery. The squadron would soon change designations to the 21st Antisubmarine Squadron. 1991- The 265th Engineer Group, Georgia National Guard, federalized for Desert Shield/Storm, was at King Khalid Military City, Saudi Arabia. On January 16th (the war began on the 17th), the unit closed its compound, instituting more stringent security and members began to take Nerve Agent Antidote pills. During the evening the area was blacked-out and all were required to sleep in their chemical clothing. Complied by Mrs. Gail Parnelle, GaARNG Historical Section Lt. Gen. David B. Poythress The Adjutant General of Georgia April 3, 2007 Time: 5:10 pm Security Notice Army National Guard FAQ The latest news from the Georgia Army National Guard. | 2007 NCO, soldier Named | Hurricane Exercise Tests Readines | Guard Deploys to Americus to Aid Relief Effort | G-RAP Pays Off for Guardsman | CERFP Unit Ramps Up With Joint Training Exercise | Lt. Col. Wood Earns Bronze Star | 4th CST Welcomes New commander | Warren Promoted | 221st Welcomes New Commander | Gober Earns Eagles | Artillerymen Honored During Saint Barbara Day Celebration | Calhoun Resident Receives Medals... 60 Years Late | Air National Guard FAQ The latest news from the Georgia Air National Guard. | Col. Moore Assumes Command of the 116th |Doehling Retires as 116th Vice-Cmdr | Cotter Tapped to Attend Air, Space School | New Positions Follow 165th Change | Smart to Lead 165th | 116th's Thetford lands at State's Airfields | 116th ACW Brings Cheer to Area Families | 283rd Earns Air Force Honor | Basketball Life Pays Off for 116th Officer | 138th MIC Gets New Commander | State Defense Force Read the latest news from the Georgia State Defense Force. GADOD News | Governor Inspects Guard During Inauguration Ceremony | |Final YCA Graduation of 2006 Held | Guard Acquires NAS Atlanta property | 138 Graduate from YCA | 23 Earn Public Employee Recognition Honors | Governor Addresses YCA Grads | Employess Earn Faithful Service Awards | About GADOD ESGR YCA Fort Stewart YCA Fort Gordon Facilities Inspector General Jobs Family Readiness Organizational Development Strategic Plan 2007 NCO, Soldier of the Year Named Click Here Hurricane Exercise Tests Guard Readiness Click Here Need the IG? Click Here Agency Biographies Annual Report Command Briefing First Friday History Ga Air Guard Boarstale HRO Joint Customer Service Team Joint Operations Jobs Money National Guard Foundation National Guard Assoc. of Georgia National Guard Bureau Photo Gallery (on "gadod.net") Photo Gallery Retirements, Awards Requesting Com. Relations Support Safety Speakers' Resource Center UPAR News Upcoming Events Warrant Officers' Web Youth Challenge National Program 48th BCT In Iraq Google Search Security Notice The Georgia Department of Defense Web site is provided as a public service by the Georgia Department of Defense Directorate of Communications, Atlanta , GA. Information presented on the Georgia Department of Defense Web site is considered public information and may be distributed or copied. Use of appropriate byline/photo/image credits is requested. For site security purposes and to ensure that this service remains available to all users. This government computer system employs software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized attempts to upload or change information, or otherwise cause damage. Unauthorized attempts to deny service, upload information, change information, or to attempt to access a non-public site from this service are strictly prohibited and may be punishable under Title 18 of the U.S. Code to include the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1987 and the National Information Infrastructure Protection Act. Return to First Friday Briefing 117th Deploys; Will Manage Airpower in Iraq The Georgia Air National Guard's 117th Air Control Squadron deploys to Iraq in January as an integral component of AEF 9&10. The deployment marks the second time the Hunter AAF-based Air Guard unit has deployed to the region in the past five years. The deploying air control package includes more than 180 Georgia Air Guardsmen joined by approximately 100 Puerto Rico Air Guardsman from the 141st Air Control Squadron. During the six-month deployment, the Guardsman will have responsibility for complete airspace management of the area, marking this deployment as the first time that an Air Guard Air Control Squadron assumes complete control of all air resources in the area fighter, tankers and airlift. The radar control and identification unit is responsible for identifying all aircraft flying the 270,000 square mile airspace over Iraq. When a confrontation with anti-Iraqi forces "troops in contact"--occurs the Georgia unit will identify and track the aircraft and work directly with the air support operation center to send in fighters to provide support. The number one priority for the deployment is supporting the tactical mission. According to Squadron Commander, Lt. Col. Richard Austin, "We don't normally `own' the airspace, but with for this deployment we will have total airspace control." Additionally, the Georgia Guardsmen will be fielding new, state of the art, equipment from the active Air Force. Three ANG teams, two of which number over 130 persons and a smaller contingent will be positioned at three locations throughout Iraq. In 2001, the 117th deployed to Kuwait as the first Air National Guard ASC unit to augment active duty ACS units controlling the airspace in the region. Return to First Friday Briefing Return to First Friday Briefing Lt. Col. Dixon Appointed 283rd Commander Lt. Col. Tom Dixon has been appointed as the Commander of the 283rd Combat Communications Squadron replacing Lt. Col. Bill Day. Dixon moves into the position of commander following more than a year as Deputy Commander of Dobbins 283rd. The official change of command ceremonies are scheduled for January 21, 2006. According to Maj. Gen. Hammond, "Lt. Col. Dixon is one of Georgia's foremost experts when it comes to communications requirements and capabilities on the battlefield. This combined with his extensive knowledge of the 283rd's various strengths and weaknesses makes him the hands down choice to lead the unit." More Lt. Col. Dixon is a 29-year veteran of the Air National Guard. Enlisting in 1976, Dixon went on to serve for two years as a aircraft maintenance technician and Crew Chief with the 49th and 479th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) at Holloman AFB, NM. In 1978, he was assigned to the 315th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) at Charlestown AFB, SC, and later to the 110th OMS in Battle Creek, MI. Dixon was assigned to the 165th Airlift Wing of the GA ANG in Savannah for seven years, before attending AMS in Knoxville and receiving his commission. Dixon served for six years as Air Battle Management/Chief of Stan Eval for the 117th ACS in Savannah before assuming the position of Director of Operations 283rd CBCS in 1994 in Savannah and later Dobbins ARB. Dixon received his Bachelor of Professional Aeronautics from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and an associate degree in aircraft Maintenance Technology from the Community College of the AF. He is a graduate of Air Weapons Control /Air Battle Manger Schools as well as Basic Communication Officer training. He has completed Squadron Officers School and Air Command and Staff College. In assuming Command, Lt Col Dixon said, "Over the past couple of years, the 283rd Combat Communications Squadron has been receiving new State-of-the-Art communications equipment. Our emphasis has been toward specialized training as we prepare to deploy our new enhanced capability to the field. My immediate goal, as we continue individualized training, will be to concentrate on increasing our deployment capability as an organization. My vision for the unit is to continue to grow the organization in capability while allowing opportunities for each member to grow professionally. I believe if our leadership continues to concentrate on individuals, the result will be a unit that emphasizes organizational success over personal validation." Return to First Friday Briefing Return to First Friday Briefing Flanking the Governor on the left are Jay Kinneman, Jeff Lowery and Chris Dockery. On the Governor's right are Jamie Sherrill, Trevor Snyder and Harold Lewis. I24th MPAD Coordinates Governor's News Conference from Iraq When Governor Sonny Perdue visited Georgia Guardsmen in Iraq in November, one of the first groups of Soldiers he unexpectedly saw was the 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment from Atlanta. The public affairs unit, which mobilized in September, coordinated the televised press conference featuring Perdue and the other Governors he travel with. The 124th MPAD is assigned to the Coalition Press Information Center (CPIC) in the International Green Zone in Baghdad. The unit has been assigned a number of high-level public affairs missions including coordinating embedded reporters and publishing the Scimitar, the weekly newsletter for Multi-National Force-Iraq. The 124th MPAD also coordinates the DOD video feeds coming from Iraq, including the courtroom footage of the Saddam Hussein trial. Read the Scimitar and other publications from the theater on-line at http://mnf-iraq.com/Publications_theater.htm Return to First Friday Briefing Return to First Friday Briefing Maj. Gen. Poythress (right) Passes The Army Guard Flag to General Nesbitt During the Pinning Ceremony Nesbitt Pins On Second Star In a packed-to-capacity auditorium filled with friends, family and fellow Guardsman, Georgia Army National Guard Commander Brigadier General Terry Nesbitt pinned on the second star of a Major General at promotion ceremonies held at the Finch Auditorium at Dobbins on December 16. This is the first time in Georgia National Guard history that the TAG and the two senior command positions in the Georgia Army and Air National Guard were occupied by Major Generals. Participating in the pinning were MG Nesbitt's wife, Leitha and mother, Ms Margarite while grandsons, Andrew Nesbitt, 13 and David Butler, 6, helped attach the two star epaulets. "This is quite a Christmas present wouldn't you say," quipped Nesbitt before he went on to recognize a number of persons "who played a significant role in my reaching this position." Nesbitt acknowledged his senior staff, and paid special attention to the six Command Sergeant Majors who he has served. He also made a special recognition to Major Skip Groth of the 48th BCT on home on leave from Iraq. MG Nesbitt called special attention to Jimmy Fahn and Frank Tran, Vietnamese citizens whom the General met while serving as a young Special Forces officer in Southeast Asia; and whom the General has remained close throughout his career in the National Guard. Major General David Poythress applauded the career of MG Nesbitt calling him a trusted advisor and friend. Major General Nesbitt serves as the ATAG Army in the Georgia National Guard and Director, J3 Domestic Operations at National Guard Bureau. Return to First Friday Briefing Return to First Friday Briefing Pictured above Maj. Gen. David Poythress, Georgia's Adjutant General accepts the check on behalf of the Family Support Foundation. Making the presentation are (left to right) David Ratcliffe, 2005 chairman of the Georgia Chamber and CEO of the Southern Company; Gary Stokan President of the Peach Bowl and the Atlanta Sports Council; and Governor Perdue Donations Continue For Foundation The Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation continues to receive significant support from individuals and communities around the state. In November, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce announced a major fund raising campaign with an overall goal to raise $1 million to benefit National Guardsmen and other service members, and families. A major contribution came in December in the form of a $100,000 check from the Chick-fil-A, which we presented on the field during the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl in the Georgia Dome. P. For more information on the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation go to www.GeorgiaGuardFamily.org. Return to First Friday Briefing Return to First Friday Briefing G-RAP Program Off To Fast Search In a few weeks, Wesley Buford of Jackson will attend his first drill with the Georgia Army National Guard, thanks to a unique recruiter: Pvt. Matthew Eubanks. Buford is the first enlistee under a new program in Georgia titled the Guard Recruiting Assistance Program, or G-RAP. And for his efforts in identifying and helping recruit him, Pvt. Eubanks could eventually earn $2,000. The G-RAP program allows any Guard Soldier to become a part-time, contracted "Recruiter Assistant" who will them cultivate quality potential Soldiers from within their individual spheres of influence. Once a potential Soldier is identified and pre-qualified, the RA will work with their local Recruiting and Retention NCO, and upon enlistment, the RA will receive an initial payment of $1,000, with a 2nd $1,000 payment upon successful shipment to Initial Entry Training. In coming weeks, Soldiers across the Georgia Guard will receive training on the G-RAP program. For more information click here or go to www.guardrecruitingassistant.com. Return to First Friday Briefing Return to First Friday Briefing First Lt. Jeff Morgan of Douglasville, civil affairs officer for Company C., 121st Infantry holds 'Baby Noor' (photo courtesy Atlanta Journal Constitution 'Baby Noor' Story Paints Compassionate Story of War in Iraq Read The Saga of Baby Noor in The Atlanta Journal Constitution Amidst the many headlines of war has come a story that has touched the hearts of many as a three month old Iraqi infant has been rescued from certain death by the concern and compassion of Georgia Guardsmen serving in war-torn Iraq. Known as "Baby Noor", the Iraqi child was discovered by members of Charlie Company, 121st Infantry during a raid near Abu Ghraib in search for insurgents. The child was born with spina bifida, a debilitating condition that if not treated would have certainly have killed the child within weeks. Baby Noor has survived the odds by living for almost three months. Noor al-Zahra arrived in Atlanta on Saturday through the assistance of the soldiers of Co C and a compassion Methodist church congregation in Douglasville. Doctors at Atlanta's Scottish Rite Hospital have agreed to perform the delicate surgery at no cost. The incredible story of the child's rescue, the assistance of members of the 48th to seek needed care in the United States for the child and the benevolence of skilled medical care personnel paints a very different picture of the war on Terror in Iraq. Tender Kiss: SSG Darryl Clark, 40, Lula, Ga., full time guard, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry, Lawrenceville, Ga., kisses baby Noor on the forehead as he prepares to hand her back to her grandmother after delivering baby formula to the family when their supply ran out at Camp Liberty, Baghdad, Iraq, on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2005. Noor fell asleep in Clark's arms while he was feeding her a bottle of the baby formula. "That's good stuff!", Clark said, refering to getting to hold and feed Noor. "It makes you feel good inside knowking your doing something for a sick child of the age", said the father of 6 children ages 4 to 18. "It got me all teary eyed too" he said afterwards with tears welling up in his eyes. "She was crying her head off when I got in there. She fell asleep in my arms. If I hadn't got out of there when I did, I would have been crying my head off". (AJC PHOTO BY CURTIS COMPTON) Return to First Friday Briefing > 48th BCT in Iraq Tuesday, 03 April, 2007 .:. :: Navigation : Home Upload MNF-Iraq Home Georgia DOD Home 48th BCT Soldiers Deliver School Supplies To An Nasiriyah Children Posted Wednesday 28 December 2005 48th BCT Warbook The 48th Brigade Combat Team is coming home after a highly successful deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. To commemorate their history-making mobilization, the Brigade is publishing a War Book that will include photos, stories, timelines and other documents to celebrate their victories and will preserve their accomplishments for generations to come. You can be a part Photo: Staff Sgt. William Todd (foreground) and Maj. Joseph Rohrer of the 48th BCT hand deliver school desks to the Fatih Bab Khabir School as the school children look on. Photos & story by Staff Sgt. Britt Smith 48th BCT PAO CAMP ADDER, An Nasiriyah, Iraq - In an effort to make learning a little more comfortable for local school children, the Civil Affairs Soldiers from the 48th Brigade Combat Team recently delivered school desks to three schools in the An Nasiriyah area. Photo Gallery Fatih Bab Khabir, Al Hanna and Nor Al Ukem schools were the recipients of the desks which were built by the 194th Engineer Brigade which has been recently replaced by the 48th Brigade's 648th Engineer Battalion Visit our photo gallery of images from the 48th BCT in Iraq School children give their unanimous approval as 48th BCT soldiers delivered desks and school supplies to the Nor Al Ukem School. 48th BCT Video The delivery of the desks turned into a social occasion with many of the local tribal leaders dropping by to greet the Soldiers as they unloaded the much needed desks to the rural school houses. The hand made additions will enable the children to have their own seat rather than sitting two or three to a desk. Watch video of Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver, Commanding General, 48th Brigade Combat Team, talking from Baghdad, to a reporter from the Pentagon Channel about his unit, a change in missions, training the Fourth Iraqi Army Brigade in Baghdad and continuing to work with Iraqi security forces, and how the holiday season went. (Courtesy DVIDS) Watch video of Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver, Commanding General, 48th Brigade Combat Team, talking from Baghdad, to a reporter from WSB in Atlanta, about the positive news of Baby Noor, who was flown back to Atlanta for surgery, her future in Iraq, unit morale over helping the baby, the holidays and other projects done for Iraqi youth, and facing the threat of improvised explosive devices, (Courtesy DVIDS) Bassam the principal as well as the only teacher at the Fatih Bab Khabir School knows first hand what the new gifts will do "It's going to help many children, we had too many children and not enough desks, now they can spread out and each can sit in their own desks," said Bassam. In addition to the desks the troops gave each child a donated school bag complete with supplies ready for immediate use. The spirit of giving goes both ways as evidenced by the smiles on the faces of the Soldiers as they talked and laughed with the children. "It's good to help the children, it does us good, we are truly blessed to be able to help them" adds Lt. Col. Scott Carter, from Warner Robins, Ga. the Civil Military Affairs Officer for the 48th Brigade. Spc. Rodney Council, a resident of Columbus, Ga. puts the giving into perspective, "It feels good to make a real difference. This is simple stuff we take for granted everyday, but here in Iraq these school supplies really make a big difference, it really does make their education better." The mission concluded with a round of Chai tea at Sheik Fasid Al Sarhan's house where the Americans and the local Iraqis discussed the future of Iraq as an emerging democracy in the free world. By the looks of the children and their desire for a good education, Iraq's future looks very bright indeed. Search Search Other News 48th Brigade Combat Team Settles in on New Mission 48th BCT Takes the West Point Academy Football Field DOD Identifies 48th BCT Casualties Company A, 148th Support Battalion Featured in CMT Special Governor Visits 48th BCT While On Visit to Iraq Bulldog Colors Fly in Iraq 48th BCT Transfers Authority For Southwest Baghdad Area of Operations 48th BCT, Iraqi Forces Capture 19 Terror Suspects, Weapons FOX 5 Report Airs Wednesday, Thursday Soldiers Use `Beanie Baby and Bullets' Theory on Patrol Lightning Bolt Read the 48th BCT Lightning Bolt Newsletter - March 2006 Edition PAST ISSUES February 2006 Caution - large .pdf files ^TOP .:. Home .:. Upload .:. MNF-Iraq Home .:. Georgia DOD Home The Georgia Department of Defense Web site is provided as a public service by the Georgia Department of Defense Directorate of Communications, Atlanta , GA. Information presented on the Georgia Department of Defense Web site is considered public information and may be distributed or copied. Use of appropriate byline/photo/image credits is requested. For site security purposes and to ensure that this service remains available to all users. This government computer system employs software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized attempts to upload or change information, or otherwise cause damage. Unauthorized attempts to deny service, upload information, change information, or to attempt to access a non-public site from this service are strictly prohibited and may be punishable under Title 18 of the U.S. Code to include the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1987 and the National Information Infrastructure Protection Act. > 48th BCT in Iraq Tuesday, 03 April, 2007 .:. :: Navigation : Home Upload MNF-Iraq Home Georgia DOD Home Soldiers from US and Italy Team to Play Sandlot Soccer Posted Wednesday 28 December 2005 48th BCT Warbook The 48th Brigade Combat Team is coming home after a highly successful deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. To commemorate their history-making mobilization, the Brigade is publishing a War Book that will include photos, stories, timelines and other documents to celebrate their victories and will preserve their accomplishments for generations to come. You can be a part Photo Gallery Photo: Spc Justin Smith challenges the ball as the Soldiers of the 48th BCT and the Italian Army square off in a game of sandlot soccer. Story and photos by: Staff Sgt. Britt Smith 48th BCT PAO CAMP ADDER, An Nasiriyah, Iraq - Pick up or pro? The question is what happens when a soccer game breaks out between coalition forces; recently Soldiers from the 48th Brigade Combat Team and the Italian Army lined up on either side of a number 5 soccer ball and engaged in a real game of "sandlot" ball. The grass was definitely in short supply at Camp Adder's soccer field but not the enthusiasm level as the two teams went at it amid the dust clouds and sand. The level of play was surprisingly good for a bunch of Soldiers who only days before had been on patrol up north in the Baghdad area in pursuit of the enemy. The enemy now before them wore shorts and soccer cleats and performed as a group that obviously played together on more than one occasion. As the teams met on the field of sand the language barrier was overcome with the universal language of "football." Visit our photo gallery of images from the 48th BCT in Iraq 48th BCT Video Watch video of Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver, Commanding General, 48th Brigade Combat Team, talking from Baghdad, to a reporter from the Pentagon Channel about his unit, a change in missions, training the Fourth Iraqi Army Brigade in Baghdad and continuing to work with Iraqi security forces, and how the holiday season went. (Courtesy DVIDS) The 48th BCT players rotated goalies as their number one keeper, Pfc. Brian Palen, 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment, 48th BCT of Dublin, Georgia was out with a minor leg injury as a result of an earlier practice session. Despite the missing goalie, they held their own and managed to score 2 goals against the Italians who rolled up a total of 6 nets. Both the Americans and Italians played well as both teams traded kicks and passes up and down the field for the better part of an hour. The final score not withstanding, the best part of the day was the chance to meet and play against people from other countries. "It's amazing, I've never had a chance to do this, it really is two countries coming together." said Spc. Christopher Monk, a Soldier from Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment, 48th BCT and resident of Eastman, Georgia. Luca Pace of the Italian Army conveyed his admiration for the American Soldier's ball handling skills as well as the opportunity to play others from another country, "It's good to play other Soldiers and we want to do it again." As the sun set over the dust bowl, Dawson, Georgia resident Spc. Justin Smith out of Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment, 48th BCT summed it all up, "It's a great experience to play another country and they are very good at playing soccer, I definitely want to do this again." The loss on the field is only temporary, but the opportunity to make friends with other collation forces is an experience that will last a lifetime. Watch video of Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver, Commanding General, 48th Brigade Combat Team, talking from Baghdad, to a reporter from WSB in Atlanta, about the positive news of Baby Noor, who was flown back to Atlanta for surgery, her future in Iraq, unit morale over helping the baby, the holidays and other projects done for Iraqi youth, and facing the threat of improvised explosive devices, (Courtesy DVIDS) Search Search Other News 48th Brigade Combat Team Settles in on New Mission 48th BCT Takes the West Point Academy Football Field DOD Identifies 48th BCT Casualties Company A, 148th Support Battalion Featured in CMT Special Governor Visits 48th BCT While On Visit to Iraq Bulldog Colors Fly in Iraq 48th BCT Transfers Authority For Southwest Baghdad Area of Operations 48th BCT, Iraqi Forces Capture 19 Terror Suspects, Weapons FOX 5 Report Airs Wednesday, Thursday Soldiers Use `Beanie Baby and Bullets' Theory on Patrol Lightning Bolt Read the 48th BCT Lightning Bolt Newsletter - March 2006 Edition PAST ISSUES February 2006 Caution - large .pdf files ^TOP .:. Home .:. Upload .:. MNF-Iraq Home .:. Georgia DOD Home The Georgia Department of Defense Web site is provided as a public service by the Georgia Department of Defense Directorate of Communications, Atlanta , GA. Information presented on the Georgia Department of Defense Web site is considered public information and may be distributed or copied. Use of appropriate byline/photo/image credits is requested. For site security purposes and to ensure that this service remains available to all users. This government computer system employs software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized attempts to upload or change information, or otherwise cause damage. Unauthorized attempts to deny service, upload information, change information, or to attempt to access a non-public site from this service are strictly prohibited and may be punishable under Title 18 of the U.S. Code to include the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1987 and the National Information Infrastructure Protection Act. > 48th BCT in Iraq Tuesday, 03 April, 2007 .:. :: Navigation : Home Upload MNF-Iraq Home Georgia DOD Home Water Plant Powers Up Generator provides continuous Source of power Posted Friday 09 December 2005 48th BCT Warbook The 48th Brigade Combat Team is coming home after a highly successful deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. To commemorate their history-making mobilization, the Brigade is publishing a War Book that will include photos, stories, timelines and other documents to celebrate their victories and will preserve their accomplishments for generations to come. You can be a part Photo Gallery Photo: Lt. Col Scott Carter(second from the left) 48th BCT Civil Affairs Officer gets thanks from Lt. Col. Muhammed Jassem, Executive Officer for the 4th Brigade, 6th Iraq Army in front of a new 1000kbh generator for a water plant in Mahmudyiah, Iraq. Story and photo by Sgt. David Bill, 48th BCT PAO MAHMUDYIAH,Iraq -- 250,000 people will have more access to clean drinking water now that a large generator is in place at the CiCi Bar Water Plant in Mahmudyiah. Having a 1000kbh Perkins generator at the water plant will provide a more consistent source of power that will keep the water flowing to the people of Mahmudyiah, Yusifyiah, and Lusifyiah. "Clean drinking water is one of the largest concerns in this area," said Lt. Col Scott Carter, Civil Affairs Officer for the 48th Brigade Combat Team. As one of the primary water plants for this area, it is essential that the flow of water be maintained, even through the "rolling blackouts" that occurs daily in the region. Normally power is disrupted for periods of three hours and occurs throughout the day. This disruption causes the water pressure to drop which reduces the amount of available water for the Iraqi citizens. Visit our photo gallery of images from the 48th BCT in Iraq 48th BCT Video This generator will provide for a continuous source of power which is essential to maintaining strong water pressure so that everyone can benefit from clean drinking water. "This project was completed with the cooperation of Coalition Forces, and Iraqi contractors, it has also provided local jobs for the area." said Lt. Col Muhammad Jassem, Executive Officer for the Fourth Brigade of the Sixth Iraqi Army which is working with the 48th BCT. Jassem continued by saying "I would like to extend my thanks to the Coalition Forces for starting projects for the people. On behalf of the people of the Mahmudyiah area, we thank you for providing essential services which benefit the people." The continued efforts by Coalition Forces to provide essential services like clean dinking water are a key factor if the growth and continued progress toward democracy in Iraq is to be maintained. Watch video of Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver, Commanding General, 48th Brigade Combat Team, talking from Baghdad, to a reporter from the Pentagon Channel about his unit, a change in missions, training the Fourth Iraqi Army Brigade in Baghdad and continuing to work with Iraqi security forces, and how the holiday season went. (Courtesy DVIDS) Watch video of Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver, Commanding General, 48th Brigade Combat Team, talking from Baghdad, to a reporter from WSB in Atlanta, about the positive news of Baby Noor, who was flown back to Atlanta for surgery, her future in Iraq, unit morale over helping the baby, the holidays and other projects done for Iraqi youth, and facing the threat of improvised explosive devices, (Courtesy DVIDS) Search Search Other News 48th Brigade Combat Team Settles in on New Mission 48th BCT Takes the West Point Academy Football Field DOD Identifies 48th BCT Casualties Company A, 148th Support Battalion Featured in CMT Special Governor Visits 48th BCT While On Visit to Iraq Bulldog Colors Fly in Iraq 48th BCT Transfers Authority For Southwest Baghdad Area of Operations 48th BCT, Iraqi Forces Capture 19 Terror Suspects, Weapons FOX 5 Report Airs Wednesday, Thursday Soldiers Use `Beanie Baby and Bullets' Theory on Patrol Lightning Bolt Read the 48th BCT Lightning Bolt Newsletter - March 2006 Edition PAST ISSUES February 2006 Caution - large .pdf files ^TOP .:. Home .:. Upload .:. MNF-Iraq Home .:. Georgia DOD Home The Georgia Department of Defense Web site is provided as a public service by the Georgia Department of Defense Directorate of Communications, Atlanta , GA. Information presented on the Georgia Department of Defense Web site is considered public information and may be distributed or copied. Use of appropriate byline/photo/image credits is requested. For site security purposes and to ensure that this service remains available to all users. This government computer system employs software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized attempts to upload or change information, or otherwise cause damage. Unauthorized attempts to deny service, upload information, change information, or to attempt to access a non-public site from this service are strictly prohibited and may be punishable under Title 18 of the U.S. Code to include the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1987 and the National Information Infrastructure Protection Act. Return to First Friday Briefing Iraqi forces search entrants into the recruiting seminar coordinated by the 122nd 122nd Rear Operations Center Plays Key Role in Rebuilding Iraq The Georgia Army Guard's 122nd Rear Operations Center, stationed in Mosul, Iraq, has played a highprofile role in recruiting former Iraqi Army officers and NCOs. The unit's Iraqi Security Force (ISF) cell organized a recruiting seminar in a high security area with over 180 former officers attend along with local sheiks and mayors. During their drive they recruited over 400 former Iraqi Officers and NCOs who were vetted and screened to be put back into the new Iraqi Army without any incident. The Iraqi Security Force was also instrumental in recruiting and sending to school over 200 Iraqi Police. For their efforts, the Iraqi Army Recruiting Team was awarded the Task Force Freedom Unit Award for recruiting a total of more than 3,000 soldiers into the new Iraqi Army. The 122nd ROC was also in engaged in forming the first Provincial Reconstructive Team (PRT) with the leadership of Col. Kenny Lee, commander of the 122nd ROC playing a key role. The team was visited by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Col. Lee was interviewed by the media prior to the Rice's speech opening the new team. Return to First Friday Briefing