1st Battalion 22nd Infantry Unit Updates March 2011 Page 3

Another productive month for the Dealers as we continue to progress throughout our area of operations. At times, I find myself
looking back on how far we have come and it amazes me. Our partnered Afghan Security Forces improve on a daily
basis through training and operational experience. They enjoy all of the instruction we provide and the level of
detail we share with them. At times, they show their appreciation by sharing some of the local cuisine with us. In
fact, just this past week, our partners cooked up a traditional American treat, French fries. Clearly, French fries
bring together people from variety of cultural backgrounds.

The weather grows warmer as we approach the spring. All of us definitely welcome this change as we shed our winter
cloths and turn off our heaters. The improved weather also allowed us to help a local community construct a soccer
field. One can watch village teams face off against each other every Friday evening. The players and spectators
alike enjoy the leisurely break. We hope to improve the newly built field over the next few weeks.

The past month proved difficult for us as we lost an incredible Soldier. SGT Jason Weaver served as a Military
Policeman for 1st PLT, 170th MP Company. Jason epitomized the qualities that all Soldiers seek to possess and
Army leaders desire in their subordinates. He was intelligent, a solid communicator, and physically fit. We will find
those responsible and they will be punished.

Please know that all of us thank you for your unwavering support. I am humbled by your generosity. All of you contribute
to our success. I cannot say that enough. Thank you.

I would like to start off with a little bit of sad news. This month we lost a great American, SGT Jason M. Weaver.
He was part of the 170th MP Platoon that is attached to us at the Provincial Reserve. SGT Weaver
was a great Soldier, one who touched a lot of hearts. Not only other Soldiers’ hearts but those of the
local population in and around Kandahar City, an amazing Soldier, Team Leader, and person; he was a great asset to
his platoon. He had a special wave he would do to the kids around the area, and every time that they would see and
recognize him; they would immediately smile and wave and say “Yo Dude!” SGT Weaver will always be remembered
as a Death Dealer and a heck of an American Soldier.

As we move forward into the eighth month of our deployment, the living conditions on all the Outposts continue to
improve. We will continue to improve on the little things, however we can, as we move forward into the upcoming months.

During the last months, we have been busy with missions. Dealer was part of an air assault operation north of Kandahar
City in Shah Wali Kot. We were the first and only Company in the Raider Brigade to do such a mission, and once
again our Soldiers set the standards for the other units in the Raider Brigade to follow.

I would like to end this month with a thank you for all that you do back home for your Soldiers. You help keep their
morale high and their will to fight strong. We will see you all soon.

March for the Headquarters Platoon was a great month for many Soldiers. SPC Veal and CPL Rytky attended the March
2011 SGT promotion board and SGT Gangl attended the SSG promotion board. Everyone of them did an outstanding
job and are going to be great future leaders. This month has been a long one for us. Doing the company
inventories for 100% of the company property, traveling to all the different locations, and making sure we had accountability
of all property. Our maintenance team has been working hard to get all of the company’s vehicles serviced in preparation
for redeployment. We have started packing items for our return trip to come home. This is going to be a long task
to make sure we bring all of the necessary equipment home. But we are still focused on the mission at hand.
We want to thank you for your support and we are looking forward to getting home to our Families and our loved ones.

Greetings to all the Family and friends of 1st Platoon, “Reapers.” Your men have proven the endurance to succeed
against all the odds. They have overcome loss, performed outstandingly amidst an under strength platoon,
and have undoubtedly become a thorn in the insurgent’s side as they have made a lasting effort in the fight against
global terrorism. Before I discuss some of their extraordinary feats, let me recap some of the times lived in Malajat,
Afghanistan, in the months of February and March.

The platoon remains separated at two locations, the Provincial Reserve and the Company HQ at ACS4. As saddening
as it is for us to be apart, this enables us to disrupt the enemy in a way we had not before the split. Don’t worry,
however, as 1LT Galeazzai and I have found ways to bring the platoon together and perform operations as our men
are offered moments of bonding at the same time. We also had to make some key moves between the squads.
1st SQD had more of an NCO responsibility, so SGT Williams moved to help fill those as they sent SPC Small over
to 2nd SQD to assist with Soldier responsibilities. Both are doing an outstanding job.

Five members of the Platoon have been selected for promotion within the Non-Commissioned Officer Ranks.
SGT Hass and SGT Cadenas were both selected to become Staff Sergeants. SPC Smith and SPC Sease were selected to become
Sergeants. They all wait to make the promotion points needed, but this is an incredibly high number for
one platoon within a period of two months. We also had some promotions within the junior enlisted ranks.
PFC Gates and PFC Moreau were both selected to Specialist with waivers, and PV2 Benz was promoted to PFC.

We even had a Reaper Patch Ceremony for some long overdue individuals. SGT Williams, SGT Hass and SPC Small
all were voted in unanimously.

We were able to send many of your loved ones home for well deserved R&R leave: 1LT Galeazzi, SPC Sease,
SPC Bosch and SGT Williams. I hope the time was spent making lasting memories and I am sure it was hard to let them go
again. SPC Smith and PFC Kimbrough were able to go home for a couple weeks in order to assist with Family
emergencies. I assure you this is not the norm and it was a great sign of Dealer Company taking care of its own. We
are on the home stretch and you will all have them in your loving arms again before you know it.

With happiness comes loss, and as all of you probably know we no longer have “Sheila” or “Koochie Momma.”
I am sure you have heard stories, just know that a series of unfortunate events led us to have to let them go. We all
loved them and just as Wombat, they were there for us in times of needed comfort. Thank all of you who showed
support of our mascots/friends. We are driving on and staying focused on the fight.

The platoon executed the very first Air Assault/Mobile operation for the brigade. The men were spectacular. They
rehearsed it to the point that they looked like they had been doing it for years. We moved far north to an area
called Shah Wali Kot and the men familiarized themselves again to mountainous terrain like you’d see in Colorado.
We cleared villages that had not had much American presence in quite some time and from reports, I can tell you we
put quite a dent in the Taliban’s operations with that historic event.

The past two months we’ve cleared a lot of compounds, fields, and orchards. We have found many caches and
taken old bombs off the streets of Malajat. In fact, it is reported that your boys in the Reaper Platoon have located,
reported, and destroyed more unexploded ordinance than any other platoon in the Raider Brigade.

Your men are the cutting edge of the sword in the fight as they chop away at the enemy leadership’s ability to move
arms into Kandahar. The Reapers’ commitment to keep this country safe, find those responsible for the cowardly
deaths of our brothers and plain survivability keeps them patrolling all hours of the day and night leaving nowhere
for the enemy to feel safe. What was once basically a shipping yard for the Taliban is now a safe home for the people
of Malajat, and a temporary stomping ground for us. I assure you that their tireless efforts do not go unknown
throughout higher commands. Everyone speaks of their achievements from the Colonels to the Privates of this brigade.
I am so proud to be their platoon sergeant. We are well over the hump and you will see your Reapers soon.

March has come and gone for 2nd Platoon Dealer Company. It was a busy month in which we accomplished many
things. Some of these accomplishments range from closing out cash for work projects that helped the local populace
improve their canals, to capturing High Value Targets that threatened our Area of Operations, to legitimizing our
ANSF counterparts in the eyes of Sub District 2’s population by training and incorporating them into the security
blanket of Southern Kandahar City. By accomplishing all of these things, we continue to win the war on counter insurgency
every day. Our continual focus on our mission will guarantee our success and safe return home in June. We
were all very happy to learn that we will be redeploying a month early to reunite with all of our Families, but that is
still a long way away. 2nd Platoon is still very focused on our job but we want to extend our love and gratitude to our Families at home.

We’ve been very busy this month within our area of operation. First of all, seeing new faces in the Spin Zarat area
and secondly getting things rolling for our redeployment. Villagers that had left their homes during the winter
months have returned now that summer is just around the corner. All these new faces have been identified and
added to our human terrain board we’ve constructed that helped us indentify who our neighbors are and ensure an
easier transition of responsibility for the next arriving unit. While keeping busy with clearing missions, human terrain
mapping, culvert tracking and operations, we have been preparing for our redeployment back home. Inventories
ranging from personal equipment to the latest field equipment that is used on a daily basis has either been packed
or inspected for accountability. This task is more easily said than done, but a critical part of our daily operation
that goes on without fail.

We have all transitioned from wearing the Army Combat Uniform to the new Multicam patterned uniform. It has
been one of the subjects throughout our COP from Soldier to Soldier. Topics such as how we look and how to rearrange
our plate carriers with the new rack system that holds our magazines and other gadgets we get our hands
on circulated from tent to tent. The change of patterns has definitely proven effective while the 3rd Platoon, Dealers
moved across Sub-District 6 in Malajat. Blending into the terrain is much easier with the vegetation growing back,
giving us the advantage that is needed in our line of work. Let’s not forget the increase of temperature from one day
to the next after getting rained on for two to three weeks straight. It always seemed like it rained right after exiting
the wire to conduct our daily patrols.

Nevertheless, 3rd Platoon continues to improve the quality of life within Spin Zarat for the villagers within the farmlands
working on their crops. We are currently working on having another Humanitarian Aid drop to help more Families.
This assistance has been effective the last three times conducted and will be very much appreciated. Let’s not
forget our support on the home front from our Families, friends and support groups such as Operation Care Package,
Blue Star Mothers, Operation Gratitude and many others. The Soldiers from 3rd Platoon, Dealer Company
thanks you for your support and undying love.

SSG Moudy, the squad leader for 3rd Squad,
places his designated marksman, SPC Long on top of a tree

PFC Sweetman and PV2 Hammond enjoy the benefits
of having an MWR that provides resources to Soldiers

The month of March has been rather difficult for the Platoon. On 3 March, an IED struck one of our dismounted
combat patrols which resulted in 1 KIA and 2 WIA. It was a hard hit to the Soldiers of this platoon, but they have been
able to keep their heads up to see our mission through to the end. Our Soldiers continue to honor SGT Weaver as
they live and serve following his example. We also said goodbye to one of our Squad Leaders as he prepares to
pursue new opportunities outside of the Army. It was a bitter sweet farewell as we were sad to see him go, but we
all know that with this being his fifth deployment and with a newborn daughter who he has yet to see, that it is time
for him to be home with his Family and start being the father and husband that he needs to be.

SGT Wright, SSG Soto, and SSG Jimenez pose for one last Squad Leader photo while in country

The Rogue Platoon received their flag in the mail and took the opportunity for a group photo

During the month of March 2011, the Soldiers from 2nd Squad worked countless hours with their ANP counterparts.
This involved lots of training focusing on the basic skills that are necessary to survive in a combat related environment.
The 2 biggest things that were focused on were first aid and vehicle searches. A few other highlights from
the month were checkpoint operations, mine detection techniques, culvert denial systems, and community policing
techniques. The MP Soldiers and the ANP Soldiers get along very well, which makes it a good working relationship
and environment. With the amount of time spent together both elements know that they can rely upon one another
whenever the need is there. The community policing helps the ANP become more familiar with the locals so they can
have trust in their security because someone is around in uniform.

Our interpreter explaining to the ANP how to use Night Vision Goggles

Welcome Friends and Family to a new month and a very dynamic time for our Company! Our transition
from Hotel California to our new home at FOB Walton was seamless and support to our
Battalion did not falter. Fortunately, our address stays the same so there will be no worries about Soldiers not getting
mail. Although we all miss our small kingdom that was FOB Hotel California, some amenities have been upgraded
to include contracted meals, laundry service and a larger gym with new equipment. FOB Walton allows us to
more efficiently support 1-22 and readies our transition upon re-deployment in a few months.

February has been a trying time for the Regulars Battalion and the Eliminator Company. My prayers go out to the
Families and Friends of our fallen and wounded Heroes. Both SPC Kirby and SGT Turnipseed are recovering very
well from the injuries they sustained on February 26th. These two individuals and their comrades truly persevered
as their training took over and they survived first contact with the enemy. I could not be more proud of the
Distribution Platoon for their actions. Continue to keep all of the Regulars and Eliminators in your thoughts and
prayers into the spring fighting season here in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

February Promotions
SPC Battaglioli SPC Mowery SPC Mitchell
SPC Murphy SPC Daniel SPC Perez
SPC Ducharme SPC Weaver SPC Marshall
PFC Byelick

Awards
SGT Turnipseed—Purple Heart
SPC Kirby—Purple Heart
SGT Phipps—Army Commendation Medal

Mechanics Badge
SPC Cervantes, SPC Delacruz, SPC Skidmore, SPC Ducharme, SPC Mitchell,
SPC Weaver, SPC Frye, and PFC McKinney

February has been a very busy month for the Eliminator Company! The month started off with our move from FOB
Hotel California to FOB Walton. It is amazing how this unit pulled together to make the transition
to another FOB while continuing to resupply our Battalion. Life for your Soldiers at FOB Walton has definitely
improved. The recent news that your loved ones will be coming home sooner than expected is also a great morale booster.

I would like to recognize SGT Turnipseed and SPC Kirby who were wounded in action on February 26, 2011. These
two outstanding Soldiers willingly accepted the risks associated with their profession, and face those risks on a daily
basis. I could not have been more proud of our Soldiers and how well they came together as a team and aided
their fellow Soldiers. My thoughts and prayers are with these Soldiers and their Families as they continue to heal
both mentally and physically.

The following Soldiers were promoted on March 1st, 2011: Private First Class Kirby and Private First Class Schneider to
Specialist. PV2 Hammond will receive a battlefield promotion to Private First Class. I would like to congratulate
these three outstanding Soldiers on their well deserved promotions!

I would like to thank the Families and organizations back home for your continued support through care packages
and letters of encouragement. I would like to send out a special thank you to Jeff Selig and his team at USAA: Kerrie,
Sid, Ken, Lori, Ethan, Michele, Denise, Andy, Kathy, Marie, Sue, Lisa, and Jessica. Thank you all for putting
together such a phenomenal care package for the Soldiers of this unit. We really appreciate all of you taking time out
of your busy schedules to brighten a Soldier’s day here in Afghanistan.

We could not do the great things we do here if it wasn’t for the support of our Families back home. We are over
halfway through our deployment and we all hope to see you again very soon.

March Madness is yet at hand, as we have another season of NCAA basketball to celebrate and encourage our favorite
teams. We are currently in the month of March, as you can put together from the first sentence. We’ve transitioned to
FOB Walton, and are currently enjoying our time here. We have to balance our time to incorporate training
which is really fun and challenging. All of our Soldiers are working out with their seniors and peers which is a motivating
factor. They seem to challenge or modify our work out plan so that we are increasing our stamina in everything we do.

The Headquarters Platoon has achieved many different tasks since the last news letter, and shows that we can
adapt well. SPC Hamic has done an exceptional job as the Command Post NCO working strictly and efficiently
through the night. SGT Durrance is currently stateside enjoying Friends and Family during his rest and relaxation
period. All we ask of our Soldiers on leave is to rest, relax and enjoy Family time and return to duty focused on our
final return to Colorado. Until we write again next month, stay blessed and continue to pray for our Soldier’s safety
and final return home.

SPC Alcorta and SPC Murphy cook one last meal at Hotel California before the move

February was a seemingly fast month for the Distro Platoon, making the move from Walton, jumping right into
resupply missions, adapting to changes, and working through injuries with our Soldiers and vehicles. Happily
however, February is one more month closer to completing the mission. The move from Hotel California to Walton
was successful, and the team seems happier here. The showers are great and the food is certainly a step up from
what we’re used to and we couldn’t be more thankful. The past month has been an extremely turbulent month
for the cargo section, having SGT Davis sent home with an accidental injury, from which we hope he is recovering
well. We are glad to have CPL Jennings back to us from KAF as he was also recovering from an accidental injury.
He is now working as the head of our load up crew, ironing out the kinks from the move. We couldn’t be more proud
of the guys.

Ammo section has had a tough month as we’ve seen two of our brothers injured in combat while on patrol. Fortunately,
SPC Kirby remains with us in full health, and SGT Turnipseed, who is in our daily praryers, is recovering well
at KAF. We’re proud of SPC Kirby, who continued to drive his vehicle, even though he was injured. SPC Whittemore
was the first responder to SGT Turnipseed; he was able to get him the first aid he needed, and SPC Lopez and SPC Goods
helped SGT Turnipseed during the CASEVAC to Camp Nathan Smith, where he received further aid. The boys did very well
under intense stress and pressure. This event has given light to the fact that the insurgents are returning to Kandahar,
and we must ensure that we are fully prepared to move forward in the event they decide to test us again.

POL Section has had a good month, assisting with the move over to FOB Walton. During the month of February, they
have issued over 80,000 gallons of fuel. Without these guys, the Battalion wouldn’t move. We celebrate SGT Juarez
and SGT Phipps birthdays in February and look forward to SGT Juarez going on leave soon, as he’s surely
worked hard and deserves it.

The best news in February came when we got word that our redeployment date was moved up. Everyone is eagerly
counting the days until we see our brothers from the replacing unit. We must stay focused, however, because we
are not finished here yet, and we still have mountains to climb before we reach the home front.

SSG Wheatley provides overwatch security during a vehicle recovery mission in Kandahar City

We are finally settling in nicely at our new location on FOB Walton. It is a much larger location with more amenities
but a little less space for our maintenance operation. We continue to build and develop our own little empire one
wood shack and tent at a time. The move across the street has allowed our maintenance program to flourish. We
have little to no force protection requirement and that has freed our Soldiers up to finally focus on our mission… maintenance.
Not only have our efforts focused but your Soldiers are finally able to show the leadership of this Battalion
just how good they are at their craft. Being a mechanic is not a glorious job and in most cases it is a job of long
hours, frustration, dirt and grime and thankless efforts, but in it, a true craftsman finds praise and fulfillment in his
work, not in words of thanks. I think that the leaders and I are seeing our mechanics truly appreciate their trade. All
are unique and bring something to the fight that is invaluable to our mission and to the men that continue to fight
the enemies of freedom on a daily basis.

Along with the move comes efforts to strengthen our systems and low density shops. The welder, SGT Espinoza,
and augmented welder, SPC Caffarelli, (augmented due to his ability to be a phenomenal welder) have built a functional
and long overdue welding shop and are fully operational with fabricating and building anything and everything
they can. The Recovery Section has built one heck of a shop, complete with insulation, climate control and a loft.
Now if they could just figure out the leaky roof, all will be good in the Recovery world. SFC Kemp was on leave during
the entire move process, (lucky guy) but SSG Rodriguez was a Godsend to the maintenance platoon, taking charge and
organizing the Soldiers and maintenance operation to the tune of a great running diesel motor. His ability to step up
and meet the challenge head-on has revitalized this platoon, and as we move into the downward slope of our deployment,
will make for a smoother transition out of theater. A job well done SSG Rod!

As most of you have heard we are scheduled to come home early. We have had to adjust a few leave dates but
overall, I feel that this change to our schedule is full of nothing but positive energy and we all look forward to seeing
you all a month early.

Facebook– 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment or Regulars by God
Facebook –1st BCT, 4th Infantry Division or Raider Brigade
As always, I want to thank all of you for your dedication to
your Soldier and to the 1-22 Infantry, Forward Support
Company team. Please feel free to contact us if you have
questions or concerns.

SGT Ferguson pins and congratulates SPC Battaglioli during his promotion at ANCOP

SPC Gann and SGT Bangura resupply A CO with fuel at the Bag-E-Pul Power Plant

Your loved ones continue to thrive here in Kandahar City. Despite living and working far from our parent unit, they distinguish
themselves every day with their professionalism, competence, and high morale. In the past month, Lightning troopers
and our Military Police brethren sustained their efforts on behalf of the Afghan government and the people of
Sub-districts 8 and 9 in Kandahar City. Between mentoring Afghan police officers to supporting the construction
of roads and a school, I grew more amazed every day at their incredible tenacity and versatility tackling
problems that have nothing to do with conducting mounted reconnaissance or firing mortars. If the Army
were to scour the ranks for Soldiers with the greatest expertise in counter-insurgency, I have no doubt some of
your loved ones would find themselves amongst the chosen.

After leading 2nd Platoon very successfully for twelve months, I recommended 1LT Edwin den Harder for an Executive
Officer position; LTC Green accepted my recommendation and assigned him to Nomad Troop. 1LT den Harder
successfully led 2nd Platoon for a long time and we expect nothing less as an Executive Officer. Naturally,
giving up a phenomenal platoon leader so close to the end of the deployment is difficult, yet I know he will do a wonderful
job managing property supplies for the squadron’s surveillance troop. I know the troop’s Family Readiness
Group will also miss 1LT den Harder’s wonderful wife Sarah. Happily, for a lieutenant lost, we have a lieutenant
gained. 2LT Kyle Sullivan joins the Troop, fresh from Armor Basic Leaders Course. We’re excited to add him to
the Lightning team.

Unfortunately, we also had cause to mourn. Our brothers in Warhorse Troop suffered the loss of two fine cavalry
troopers. We shall not forget SGT Donald Mickler or SPC Rudy Acosta. Rather, we shall think of them with fondness,
toast their sacrifice, and look forward to seeing them again at Fiddler’s Green. I ask that all friends of the troop
and squadron pray for both Families.

As we near the end of our time in Afghanistan, I cannot thank you enough for your support. I have no doubt that
we remain strong thanks to your many, powerful prayers and numberless letters and emails. May God bless you and
all those in the Lightning Family

1st Platoon with ANCOP and HCT elements enroll
local nationals into biometrics as they travel along the canals

A 1/L dismounted patrol, led by Platoon Sergeant,
SSG Wesserling, takes a short halt while clearing fields

Another successful month in Sub-District 8 has passed by for 1st Platoon. With less than 60 days left in the deployment,
morale in the platoon continues to be very high. Patrolling the various villages in the AO, we’ve made a long
lasting connection with the population. Several of the platoon’s Soldiers are pretty popular with the local children,
causing the children to ask where they are when they’re not on patrol. Although the villagers don’t want us to leave
in a few months, fortunately we’ll be home to see our friends and Family soon.

Recently, the platoon participated in several Troop level operations, greatly decreasing the insurgent activity in the
area and keeping the platoon and population safe. Further more, the platoon welcomed a new set of Afghan partners
to the checkpoint, with an entirely new platoon of Afghan National Civil Order Police arriving from Kabul. The first
few patrols with the new guys are promising and hopefully will be just as successful with them as the former partners.

The platoon continues to do extremely well and has some new members in its ranks, with PFC Javien Brown and
PFC Pieree Sinleton coming over from 2nd Platoon. SPC Sean Dobbs, the commander’s gunner, frequently patrols with
the platoon and recently received his promotable status, just waiting to make points and promotion to Sergeant.
SGT Chris Day, the former commander’s gunner, is now an acting section sergeant in Red Platoon, bringing his vast
tactical knowledge to bear on the platoon’s tactical problems and leadership of its Soldiers. The best news recently
for the platoon though is that SSG Wesserling made the promotion list to Sergeant First Class with a sequence number
of 67. All positive news for us as we finish strong in the AO and prepare for redeployment back to Germany.

1LT Gregory and ANCOP Policeman Faiz
pose for a picture in Sub-District 8

SSG Reyes arm wrestling a local Afghan man

Another orchard cleared, another wall jumped. These two activities have become all too familiar for the Troopers of
White Platoon, Lightning Troop, 4/2 SCR. Although the weather is getting warmer and the patrols are getting
longer, the motivation and esprit de corps of the platoon remains high.

After only two weeks as Platoon Leader of White Platoon, I can’t help but be amazed by the resiliency and drive of the
Troopers in my platoon. The introduction of new ANCOP brothers in arms has provided an additional boost. These
new ANCOP are highly motivated and ready to fight. Although when all is said and done, I will have been Platoon
Leader of White Platoon for only two months, I have no doubt that this experience will be forever etched into my memory.

Each day and every patrol, the Troopers of White Platoon are making a difference in Sub-District 8, Kandahar City.
Despite the fact that we are detached from our Squadron, 4/2 SCR, we feel at home in 1-22 IN. They have provided
us with unwavering support and acceptance. None of this would be possible without the support of our Families and
friends. They provide us the daily support that is the foundation of everything we do.

Toujours prêt! (Always Ready)
Very Respectfully,
2LT Kyle Sullivan
Lightning White 1

It has been my distinct honor and privilege to serve with the men of Thunder Platoon here in the greater Kandahar
area of Afghanistan. These outstanding future leaders of America have continued to shine as a leading element of
the United States Army, setting records for voluntary biometric enrollment while building good will and forging relationships
with the Afghan people. The Platoon has played a critical part in establishing and maintaining security for
the people of Afghanistan. We have traveled on foot for many miles and met many people while we worked with
our Afghan partners in developing their skills as a security force for their nation. The team building that occurred
between us and the ANSF forces we have lived with over the length of the deployment has surely bonded us together
as brothers in arms. Together united in the similar goal of being able to see Afghanistan stand united, under a
strong government capable of protecting its inhabitants, interests, and allying with the world community to eradicate
terrorist organizations.

Over the span of my career I have served with many great people, but I can say that this is the best Platoon I have had
the privilege of serving with. This has been a very interesting deployment for the Thunder Platoon Troopers, considering
that the first four months we were almost entirely mounted living on a FOB, as well as working for our parent
unit Sabers 4/2 SCR. For the remainder of the deployment we were attached to LTC Padgett and our brothers in arms
with 1-22 IN, where we spent the remainder of the time exclusively dismounted in Kandahar City and living on a
small COP in the middle of a busy market place. It was quite an adjustment at first, but my Troopers in true Toujours
Prêt (always ready) fashion, we quickly adapted. As the only Infantry Platoon in Lightning Troop, we soon began
to feel right at home walking through the streets of Kandahar. It has truly been an honor to serve with both
organizations; Lightning Sabers 4/2 and the Regulars by God, 1-22 IN.

Thunder pulling security over
Mirza Mohammad Kalacheh

SPC Leasure posing on a stryker

2nd Platoon Diablos continues to be the premiere Military Police asset in Kandahar City. Though the Platoon is split
between two locations, the squads are still flourishing at their police mentorship and training mission.

1st Squad is currently conducting partnership training and patrolling with the ANP in Sub-District 8 of Kandahar, Afghanistan.
1st Squad’s hard work since moving to Sub-District 8 and partnership with the ANP is really showing in
the ANPs job performance and professionalism. The local people’s trust in the ANP is growing every day, and this is
shown by the growing number of locals coming to the Police Sub-Station with their problems.

2nd Squad has the arduous task of mentoring 25 check points in the Argandab River Valley. They have continued
to fortify their CPs and mentor to the best of their ability over 300 ANP. 2nd Squad has focused their mentorship on
bringing the ANP into a new era of police work and professionalism. The Afghan local populace have welcomed this
change in their ANP and look forward to engaging them on a daily basis.

Diablo 7 and I are extremely proud and honored to serve with the greatest group of Soldiers in Afghanistan. The
Diablos are constantly working and seeking better ways to further the ANP progression. 7 and I would like to extend
our heart felt thanks for all of the care packages, the kind letters, and the boost of morale we all receive when a
Diablo shares something a loved one sends them.

Diablos moving through the
orchards and climbing walls

Thunder during a security halt with
the Troop Dog, BMG (Bear Moose Gun)

Over the past two months, Strike Fear has worked hard to transition from operational control of the 504th
Military Police Battalion to Task Force 1-22. This was made much easier by the very competent staff at the Battalion Headquarters.
While our mission has not changed—Police Mentorship Training—the amount of assets available to us has increased significantly.
This allows us to focus more deeply on training our Afghan National Police and Afghan National Civil Order Police partners,
while still bringing development to the residents of Kandahar City.

While our Soldiers conduct patrols focused on security, we also facilitate development projects like building roads,
building and improving schools, and renovating public facilities. Strike Fear is partnered with the manager of Sub-District 3,
who works directly for the mayor. The Sub-District Manager receives petitions from the residents, prioritizes
the projects, and seeks our assistance. Every week, we discuss the progress made and future projects. Together,
we are slowly improving the living conditions for the residents.

Recently, we celebrated the Afghan New Year, called “Nowruz,” between March 21st and 23rd. As with any celebration,
security of the residents is our foremost concern. While we increased our patrolling and were prepared for
anything, our police partners truly impressed us with their efforts. They quadrupled their patrols, departing the Police
Sub Station both day and night, simply to make sure those celebrating Nowruz could do so safely.

Our Soldiers continue to conduct partnered patrols, building the capacity of the Afghan Police units so that they can
transition to fully owning the security of their country. I am extremely humbled by their work ethic, and proud of what
our Soldiers have accomplished!

Another month has come and gone and the Strike Fear MPs have maintained their sector with extreme diligence
and pride. The mission operations’ tempo has increased along with the temperatures in Southern Kandahar. Our Soldiers
have stayed the course and continue to accomplish great tasks to support the Afghan National Police development
and Counter Insurgency efforts.

When the hard missions get accomplished above the Army standard, the Commander and I ensure that the hard
working Strike Fear MPs get what they deserve and are properly recognized. I would like to personally congratulate
our newest group of Specialists that were promoted early with a waiver: SPC Baker, SPC Blood, SPC Cornelius,
SPC Drottar, SPC Hatcher, SPC Henderson, SPC Hunter, SPC Ligouri, SPC Peyton, SPC Sokolovic and SPC Thomas.
And I would personally like to congratulate and welcome into the NCO Corps our three newest Sergeants: SGT Drumm,
SGT Garcia and SGT Savoy.

Not only are our Strike Fear MPs getting promoted, but our very own Strike Fear 4, Supply Sergeant, SSG Connie Chewett
was selected for a very well deserved promotion to Sergeant First Class. The Army and the Quartermaster Corps
are that much stronger today because of great NCOs like her.

Next to promoting well deserving Soldiers, the next best thing to me is retaining the best and brightest that America
has to offer in the Profession of Arms. The following SGTs re-enlisted and received a deployment bonus and
duty station of choice: SGT Steinman, Ft Bragg, NC; SGT Jones, Ft Campbell, KY; SGT Lanese, Ft Campbell, KY; and
SGT Asher, Hawaii. Finally, I would like to thank all of our Family and friends at Ft Drum, New York, for the letters
and care packages that keep us motivated.

Seven months down and five left for 3rd Platoon, 511th Military Police Company, based out of Police Substation 3
in Sub-District 3, Kandahar, Afghanistan. 3rd Platoon has been conducting Police Mentorship Training for the Afghan
National Police in their district. They conduct daily dismounted patrols with their partnered police through the
city and the local village farmlands, searching for enemy insurgents, weapons caches, and improvised explosive devices.
The Soldiers have done a great job executing their missions with ease.

When the Plug Uglies are not on patrol or base defense, the Soldiers spend most of their personal time conducting
base improvement. Upon their arrival into the city their Police Substation was one of the most austere stations in
Kandahar. But, with some Soldier ingenuity and hard work the Soldiers are living quite nicely now. They have expanded
their living quarters which enabled the entire platoon to move out to the Police Substation. The Substation
now has workings showers, and MWR/Dinning Facility with a nice 42 inch flat screen TV and the Armed Forces Network
(AFN). Several Soldiers have also enrolled in college while they have been deployed. They spend countless
hours taking online classes or classes offered by the First Sergeant. Their current goal is to complete one semester
of college by the time we redeploy back to Fort Drum, New York.

The Soldiers are learning and adapting to the ever-changing Afghan environment. Many of the Afghan Police
are teaching them their culture, language (Pashtu), as well as, giving them an opportunity to taste the local cuisine.
This has been an invaluable experience that has made our job easier when interacting with the local populace while
on mission. This has been a learning experience that our Soldiers will never forget.

I would like to recognize several Soldiers for their outstanding performances over the past few months: SGT Steinman
won the honor as the 504th Military Police Battalion NCO of the Quarter, 3rd Quarter, FY11, SPC Allen
won the honor as the 1-4 Raider Brigade Soldier of the Quarter, 2nd Quarter, FY11. PFC Baker and PFC Hatcher
were promoted to the rank of Specialist with a waiver.

I would like to congratulate SSG John Vetter, and his wife Laura, on the birth of their newborn baby girl, Ava Helen Vetter,
she was born on 17 February 2011, and was 7lbs 8oz. Lastly, I would like to thank all the Families of the Soldiers
in the Plug Uglies. We know times are hard and we are grateful for your strength. Your letters and gifts have
really brightened the smiles of the Soldiers of the platoon. We are counting down the days until we are reunited.

First, I would like to say thank you for the warm reception into TF Regulars. I see that we will be treated like Family
and that is what the Army's all about. A Family that stands together through the good and bad times will only become stronger.

The Soldiers of the 170th MP CO (Dragon Slayers) are doing well, considering the recent loss of two outstanding Soldiers.
Being a close knit Family, we have been through the good and bad experiences of combat. We would have
never thought after multiple engagements and IED blasts that this would happen. Now, we will honor Family members
that have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

We have had to adapt and overcome a lot in these last nine months. We were the only Military Police Company in Kandahar
City for three months until other units arrived. With few numbers and a lot of motivation, the Dragon Slayers
have set the example for conducting Police Mentorship and Training (PMT). And now, we conduct continuous patrolling
around Sub-District 2, which has remained challenging to say the least. The Soldiers have learned and mastered
dismounted combat patrols and look forward to share with our other Military Police units at Joint Base Lewis McCord
upon our return. Who would have thought that my Slayers would be working hand-in-hand with Infantry/Armor Soldiers?
This is truly a step forward for the Military Police Corps and I’m proud to say we are making a difference in
more than one way. My Soldiers are happy to say that they not only conducted the PMT mission, but they stood tall to
help complete a tough Infantry ground fight. Like a quote from Field Manual 7-22.7 states “when you’re in the Army,
you can become Infantry at any given moment.”

Greetings friends, Families and Ghost Rider fans! Third Platoon’s tasks remain daunting but the Soldiers are in
good spirits. With only 2 more months until our replacements are on ground, the Platoon continues to work hard.
The last month saw SGT Larsen (formerly 3-1A) take over 1st Squad, 2nd Platoon, as the squad leader.

With SGT DeChicko (formerly 3-1B) continuing to bolster 2nd Squad, 2nd Platoon, and the XO, 1LT Durkin
(former 3rd Platoon Alumni), temporarily in command of the Company, 3rd Platoon is ensuring
the Company runs smoothly and effectively as the deployment winds down.

First Squad is continuing its mission south of the city by assisting their Afghan counterparts as they tirelessly patrol
the rural countryside. Additionally, they have taken a key role in the welfare of the local villages by encouraging development
projects and by introducing the central government to these isolated hamlets.

2nd Squad has completed another of its numerous missions and returned to the company. They had been selected
to escort Brigadier General Martins around the city but have returned to take a key role in the development of
the Afghan National Police. They have been busy assisting the police scattered across the Sub-District to improve
their force protection, and continue training on basic police tasks, all while simultaneously cultivating a rewarding
relationship with the people of the urban city center.

Dragon Slayer 2-1 (DS 2-1) is continuing to live with and mentor the ANP of PSS 2 in northern Sub-District 2. While
living with the ANP, DS 2-1 is teaching the ANP the skills necessary for them to be able to conduct local policing on
their own, such as patrolling, first aid, procedures, etc. The ANP have come a long way since the embedding process
started, and it has shown over the last month. The ANP have started to become more proactive in conducting
mounted and dismounted patrolling without the assistance of ISAF presence. During the time spent in between patrols,
the ANP have shared some time with DS 2-1 in learning some new card games, and DS 2-1 has learned Afghan
games as well.

Dragon Slayer 2-2 (DS 2-2) is operating as the battle space owners of two key villages in southern Sub-District 2.
While partnering with the Afghan National Police, DS 2-2 conducts two to three dismounted patrols a day to better
the security of the region and to augment the capabilities of the local police. DS 2-2 additionally is working with the
local municipality to rebuild the Haji Arab Primary School, where nearly 400 children and adults receive an education,
and employ hundreds with cash for work programs. The efforts of DS 2-2 have most certainly convinced the local
populace that the future lies with the government and police, not the insurgency.

SPC Daviel Williams carries humanitarian aid to a needy
local Afghan Family.

CPL Cody Knight inspects a suspicious car during Traffic
Control Point operations.