Skip navigation links
US Department of Defense
American Forces Press Service
Show Articles from Section:
12/31/2007 : Department Engages Congress for Full 3.5 Percent Troop Pay Raise      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31, 2007 - Military members will receive a 3 percent pay raise as President Bush urges Congress to revise some provisions regarding Iraq contained in the fiscal 2008 National Defense Authorization Act.
12/31/2007 : Local Governance Center Opens South of Baghdad  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq, Dec. 31, 2007 - The Arab Jabour Governance Center, which will be the headquarters for the Arab Jabour Governance Council and local groups, is open.
12/31/2007 : Al Qaeda Actions in Iraq Contradict Bin Laden's Claims      This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31, 2007 - An audio tape released by Osama bin Laden Dec. 30, 2007, purports that al Qaeda does not kill innocent civilians, but the terrorist network’s actions in Iraq contradict this claim, a coalition spokesman said.
12/31/2007 : Afghan-Led Combined Force Arrests Suspected Taliban Leaders  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31, 2007 - A combined Afghan element led by 203rd Commando Kandak conducted a series of raids throughout the Sabari district in Afghanistan’s Khowst province.
12/31/2007 : Coalition Troops in Iraq Capture Insurgent Leader      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31, 2007 - Coalition forces in Iraq captured a suspected insurgent leader during operations to disrupt criminal networks in the Husseiniyah area.
12/31/2007 : Team Helps Troops in Afghanistan Fight Stress  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE FENTY, Afghanistan, Dec. 31, 2007 - A team of airmen and soldiers help deployed servicemembers battle stress at Forward Operating Base Fenty, Afghanistan, and at some 20 surrounding forward operating bases.
12/31/2007 : Team Works to Defend Digital Battlefield in Europe  This story contains photos.    
MANNHEIM, Germany, Dec. 31, 2007 - For the first time in the European military theater, a cyber-threat intelligence cell has been created specifically to detect, monitor and combat malicious digital infiltrations on military computer networks.
12/31/2007 : America Supports You: Foundation Seeks a Few Good Students      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31, 2007 - The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is looking for eligible students to apply for its 2008 scholarships.
12/31/2007 : Face of Defense: Airmen Augment Soldiers for Medevac Missions  This story contains photos.    
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, Dec. 31, 2007 - Air Force Tech. Sgt. Stephen Thackery is part of an HH-60 Pave Hawk unit that flies alongside Army aircraft to provide medical treatment and evacuation in Afghanistan.
12/28/2007 : Face of Defense: Marine Bridges Gap Between Cultures  This story contains photos.    
TAQADDUM, Iraq, Dec. 28, 2007 - Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Robert Sanders is an operations chief who uses his diverse background to help to bridge the cultural gap between U.S. troops and Iraqis.
12/28/2007 : America Supports You: Foundation Assists Injured EOD Personnel      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 28, 2007 - A Virginia group is putting technicians wounded while disposing of explosive ordnance in touch with their families to help with their recovery.
12/28/2007 : Soldiers, Afghans Celebrate School Opening  This story contains photos.    
KAPISA PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 28, 2007 - U.S. soldiers helped local Afghans celebrate the opening of the Aftabachi Girls’ School in the Aftabachi Village during a ribbon-cutting ceremony. “They don’t have enough schools around here, so this one’s a big one for them," said U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Henry L. Rodriguez.
12/28/2007 : Coalition Forces in Iraq Kill 5 Terrorists, Detain 14      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 28, 2007 - Coalition forces killed five terrorists and detained 14 suspects during anti-al Qaeda operations in central and northern Iraq.
12/28/2007 : Scrap-Metal Salvage Puts Iraqis to Work  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, Dec. 28, 2007 - Fourteen Iraqis have begun working in the Defense Reutilization Material Office yard to reduce damaged and unusable vehicles into scrap metal. The metal will be sold to an outside business and eventually end up in an Iraqi foundry.
12/28/2007 : Coalition Troops in Afghanistan Kill Several Militants, Detain 9      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 28, 2007 - Coalition forces killed several enemy fighters and detained nine others in an operation to disrupt Taliban leadership and weapons-facilitation networks Dec. 27 in Afghanistan’s Zabul province.
12/28/2007 : America Supports You: Partnership Gives Spouses Gift of Education      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 28, 2007 - Military spouses now have access to more educational scholarships, thanks to a new partnership.
12/27/2007 : Troops Kill 11 Insurgents, Detain 19 in Iraq Operations      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27, 2007 - Coalition troops killed 11 insurgents and captured 19 others during separate operations in Iraq, military officials reported.
12/27/2007 : U.S., Afghan Forces Seize 2 Terrorists, Find Weapons Cache      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27, 2007 - Afghan and U.S. security forces detained two suspected terrorist bombers and seized a weapons cache during separate operations in Afghanistan.
12/27/2007 : Troops Detain 2 Extremists Tied to Soldiers’ Abduction      
BALAD, Iraq, Dec. 27, 2007 - Iraqi police and U.S. special operations forces seized two suspected extremists believed to be complicit in the kidnapping of three U.S. soldiers in early May, U.S. military officials said.
12/27/2007 : ‘Ironhorse’ Brigade Officer Reflects on Progress in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
CAMP TAJI, Iraq, Dec. 27, 2007 - Soldiers of the 1st Cavalry Division's 1st "Ironhorse" Brigade Combat Team have seen progress in the security situation over the past 15 months, going from 150 enemy attacks per week for their first two months in Iraq to about 10 significant events per week.
12/27/2007 : General Delivers Message From Hero’s Mother to Marines in Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 27, 2007 - The assistant commandant of the Marine Corps made a quick stop at Camp Eggers Dec. 26 and passed a message from a modern-day Marine Corps hero’s family to Marines serving in and around Afghanistan’s capital city.
12/27/2007 : Face of Defense: Soldier Makes Positive Impact in Iraqi Community  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, Dec. 27, 2007 - For an Army staff sergeant deployed to Iraq, his quest to make a positive impact during his tour of duty took him to Iraqi neighborhoods and schools.
12/26/2007 : Triple Threat Pressures al Qaeda in Iraq, General Says      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2007 - Having been ejected from Baghdad and its environs during the surge of forces, al Qaeda in Iraq is attempting to re-establish itself in regions north of the capital city, a senior U.S. military officer posted in Iraq said.
12/26/2007 : Face of Defense: Airman Keeps Eye on Mission With Eye on Ammo      
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 26, 2007 - Air Force Staff Sgt. Erik Ryland helps save lives by inspecting ammunition.
12/26/2007 : Troops in Afghanistan Detain Suspected Militants      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces conducted an operation to detain Taliban extremists in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province.
12/26/2007 : Coalition Forces Kill Four Terrorists, Detain One in Central Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2007 - Coalition forces killed four terrorists and detained one suspect during operations targeting al Qaeda in central Iraq.
12/26/2007 : Afghan, U.S. Troops Deliver Aid to Villagers  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 26, 2007 - Coalition and Afghan national security forces delivered tons of humanitarian aid to hundreds of villagers in Nangarhar province. The forces delivered more than two tons of blankets, flour, rice, prayer rugs, toys and other items.
12/26/2007 : America Supports You: Foundation Helps Vets, Families Readjust      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2007 - An Oklahoma woman who helped her Iraq-veteran son deal with post-traumatic stress disorder has created a foundation to help more veterans and their families readjust.
12/26/2007 : Iraqi Army, U.S. Troops Deliver Backpacks to School Children  This story contains photos.    
ADIL, Iraq, Dec. 26, 2007 - Iraqi troops and U.S. Army soldiers and delivered backpacks to school children at the Kawaryzmi Primary School in Adil earlier this month.
12/26/2007 : Iraqis Increasingly Side With Coalition, Colonel Says      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2007 - The Iraqi people increasingly are siding with the coalition against extremists in their country, a unit commander there said.
12/25/2007 : Deployed Airmen Share Sense of Pride      
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan , Dec. 25, 2007 - Thousands of miles away from home, airmen in Afghanistan still found ways to celebrate the holiday season.
12/25/2007 : ‘Crazy 98s’ Celebrate Christmas in Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
KUNAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 25, 2007 - A small, blinking Christmas tree sits in the dining facility. Aside from a few other lights, it is the only symbol of Christmas on Forward Operating Base Wolverine, in Afghanistan's Kunar province.
12/25/2007 : Christmas Brings Tons of Mail to TF Bayonet  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE FENTY, Afghanistan, Dec. 25, 2007 - The holiday season began early for the military postal service on Forward Operating Base Fenty, Afghanistan. At the beginning of November, the number of packages and letters being handled tripled and was expected to peak during the days surrounding Christmas. Officials expect the rush continue through the end of January.
12/23/2007 : Country Stars, ‘America’s Sweethearts’ Visit Troops in Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
KUNAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 23, 2007 - Military men and women in eastern Kunar province were surprised by a visit from the Army’s top enlisted soldier and several celebrities at the remote Camp Blessing, Afghanistan.
12/23/2007 : Petraeus: Violence Down in Iraq; Al Qaeda Still a Threat      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23, 2007 - Violence is down about 60 percent in Iraq since the June troop surge, and the top military commander in Iraq said he wants the trend to continue in 2008.
12/23/2007 : Chairman’s USO Tour Wraps Up  This story contains photos.    
ROTA, Spain, Dec. 23, 2007 - If they made movie starring Robin Williams about this year’s Chairman’s USO Holiday Tour it could be titled: “Good Morning, Arifjan, CampVirginia, Taqqadum, Ramadi, Tikrit, Balad, Kabul, Kandahar, Manas, Aviano, Rota.”
12/23/2007 : Bush Thanks Servicemembers, Military Families for Sacrifices      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23, 2007 - President Bush used his weekly radio address to thank America’s servicemembers who will spend Christmas far away from their homes and loved ones.
12/21/2007 : Combat Veterans Connect With America Through ‘Why We Serve’ Program      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - Recently returned combat veterans said they found that Americans long to hear firsthand accounts about duty on the front lines without media filters.
12/21/2007 : MRAP Deliveries Top Year-End Goal      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - The Defense Department today topped its year-end goal of delivering 1,500 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles to troops in the Afghanistan and Iraq.
12/21/2007 : Kandahar Base Shows Inequities Between Afghan Army, Police  This story contains photos.    
CAMP WILSON, Afghanistan, Dec. 21, 2007 - Coalition and Afghan soldiers are well-equipped, but the Afghan police need more help.
12/21/2007 : England Meets, Thanks ‘Why We Serve’ Participants      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England thanked a group of servicemembers who have completed nationwide speaking tours as part of the “Why We Serve” public-outreach program.
12/21/2007 : Mullen Says Evaluating Afghan Strategy Makes Sense      
MANAS, Kyrgyzstan, Dec. 21, 2007 - Constantly evaluating U.S. strategy in Afghanistan makes sense given the unpredictability of the area and the enemy, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
12/21/2007 : No Furloughs for Christmas, Gates Says  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - The $70 billion in emergency funds approved by Congress has sidestepped the need for the Army to issue furlough notices during the holiday season, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said.
12/21/2007 : Battle of the Bulge Memories, Emotions Live On  This story contains photos.    
BASTOGNE, Belgium, Dec. 21, 2007 - Sixty-three years after the Battle of the Bulge, standing next to the killing field in Belgium where he once found himself face-down in the snow surrounded by the dead and dying, Ted Paluch had a chance to honor those fallen comrades.
12/21/2007 : Mail Handlers in Overdrive to Get Christmas Packages to Soldiers  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq, Dec. 21, 2007 - While most soldiers are tucked in their beds for the night, a mail handler deployed in Iraq is waiting for the mail to arrive.
12/21/2007 : Airmen, Sailors Complete Interservice Air Combat Training      
KUNSAN AIR BASE, South Korea, Dec. 21, 2007 - Airmen from Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, completed an 11-day air combat training exercise with sailors flying F-18 Hornets at Atsugi Naval Air Facility, Japan.
12/21/2007 : President Thanks Servicemembers for Sacrifices      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - In his annual holiday message, President Bush thanked servicemembers and their families for their sacrifices.
12/21/2007 : NORAD Set to Track Santa; Commander Thanks Troops, Families      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - Members of North American Aerospace Defense Command are gearing up to track Santa Claus’ travels on Christmas Eve, providing detailed information about his whereabouts on the command’s Web site and through a toll-free telephone line.
12/21/2007 : Afghan, Coalition Forces Help Brighten Residents’ Lives      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces brightened the lives of Afghan adults and children alike with a wave of humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan.
12/21/2007 : Troops Kill 1, Capture 24 in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces killed one suspected terrorist and detained 24 others in Iraq.
12/21/2007 : Gates: Coalitions Critical in Afghanistan, Other Security Missions      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - After visiting some 50 countries during his first year running the Defense Department, Secretary Robert M. Gates said he has yet to find one that doesn’t want to work with the United States.
12/21/2007 : Northern Iraq Operations Expose Enemy’s Grim Nature      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - Ongoing Multinational Force Iraq operations against terrorists are focused in the country’s northern provinces, where al Qaeda activity is heavy.
12/21/2007 : Chairman, USO Bring Kid Rock, Robin Williams to Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 21, 2007 - More than 600 military men and women stood for hours in the cold for a live USO show highlighted by Kid Rock and Robin Williams at Camp Phoenix, Afghanistan.
12/21/2007 : Face of Defense: Airman Reflects on Saving Team Leaders’ Life  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE GARDEZ, Afghanistan, Dec. 21, 2007 - As he sat eating breakfast Dec. 7, Air Force Staff Sgt. Eric Eberhard had no idea that he was just hours away from a struggle to save the life of the airman sitting next to him.
12/21/2007 : America Supports You: Soldier’s Legacy Benefits Wounded Troops  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2007 - An Illinois-based group is working to honor one soldier by supporting many other servicemembers.
12/20/2007 : Chairman’s USO Holiday Show Travels Throughout Combat Theater  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen brought the Chairman’s USO Holiday Tour to Afghanistan. A C-17 carrying Robin Williams, Kid Rock, Lewis Black, Lance Armstrong and Miss USA Rachel Smith landed in snow at Kabul International Airport.
12/20/2007 : Gates Reflects on Highlights, Challenges of First Year in Office      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - One year into the job, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said he’s pleased with the turnaround in Iraq and particularly proud of speeding up the timetable for getting mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles to deployed troops and instilling changes in how the military treats its wounded troops.
12/20/2007 : Task Force Shares Military Health Care Recommendations      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - A Congressionally-appointed group of experts released its findings after a year-long diagnosis of the military’s health care system.
12/20/2007 : Task Force 12 Soldiers Continue Traditions From Home  This story contains photos.    
CAMP TAJI, Iraq, Dec. 20, 2007 - As the holiday season approaches, many soldiers would like more than anything to receive just one simple present: the chance to be with family and loved ones.
12/20/2007 : Army to Tap Troops Not Yet Deployed      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - The Army’s assignments branch is reaching out to soldiers who have not deployed to combat in an effort to relieve those who have gone repeatedly.
12/20/2007 : Fort Bragg Set to Get More Soldiers      
FORT BRAGG, N.C., Dec. 20, 2007 - Fort Bragg, N.C., will receive about 1,400 more soldiers as part of the Army's "Grow the Army" stationing plan.
12/20/2007 : Normalcy Returns to Baghdad’s Outskirts as Attacks Decline      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - The decrease in violence in Baghdad’s northern and western outskirts has created a sense of stability and economic activity that Iraqis view as a presage to the return of normalcy.
12/20/2007 : Troops Capture ‘Special Groups’ Leader, Release Detainees      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - Coalition forces captured a suspected “special groups” leader during operations yesterday in the northern Baghdad area.
12/20/2007 : Afghan, Coalition Forces Deliver Toys in ‘Operation Bernice’  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 20, 2007 - U.S. and Afghan soldiers handed out stuffed animals, blankets and coats to Afghan villagers in an operation named for an Army major’s childhood toy.
12/20/2007 : Bush, Gates Comment on Partial War Funding Approved by Congress      This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - President Bush and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates thanked Congress for approving emergency defense spending, but both men said more money is needed to prosecute the war on terror and other defense operations.
12/20/2007 : America Supports You: Kuwait Gets Blizzard of Holiday Cheer  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - Christmas came early to several camps in Kuwait, thanks to Bank of America.
12/20/2007 : Program Helps Injured Employees Return to Work      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - A new Defense Department program is helping civilian employees injured in job-related accidents and illnesses return to work.
12/20/2007 : Defense Secretary Sends Holiday Message      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2007 - Citing the many gains achieved by the military over the past year, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates thanked America’s men and women in uniform for their service in a holiday message.
12/20/2007 : Multinational Division Baghdad Transfers Authority  This story contains photos.    
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq, Dec. 20, 2007 - The 1st Cavalry Division passed control of Multinational Division Baghdad to the 4th Infantry Division during a ceremony at Camp Liberty.
12/20/2007 : Airmen Help Bring Gift of Freedom to Afghans      
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 20, 2007 - Airmen of the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing helped give the gift of freedom to residents of the village of Musa Qalah.
12/20/2007 : Face of Defense: Deployed Airman Hits Career Milestone  This story contains photos.    
SOUTHWEST ASIA, Dec. 20, 2007 - A deployed airman joined an elite group of aviators after flying 200 combat missions and reaching 1,500 combat hours.
12/19/2007 : Turkey Gave ‘Ample Notification’ of PKK Strikes, Pentagon Spokesman Says      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2007 - The Turkish government provided “ample notification” of plans to conduct air strikes against Kurdish rebel positions in northern Iraq, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters.
12/19/2007 : Army Announces Plan to Station Soldiers, Boost Bases      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2007 - The Army’s new plan for stationing its growing number of troops will affect 380,000 soldiers and family members and cost more than $66 billion in construction projects through 2013.
12/19/2007 : U.S. Airmen Help Open Hospital in Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE HERO, Afghanistan, Dec. 19, 2007 - Airmen in a medical mentoring team here have been working hard to ensure the successful opening of an Afghan National Army hospital.
12/19/2007 : MRAP Deliveries to Top Year-End Goal      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2007 - The Defense Department is expected to top its year-end goal of delivering 1,500 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles to Iraq.
12/19/2007 : Al Qaeda Feels Pressure From Operations, Citizens      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2007 - Targeted operations by coalition and Iraqi forces, along with attitude shifts by local citizens against al Qaeda in Iraq, are taking a toll on insurgent efforts.
12/19/2007 : Odierno Calls for ‘Full, Complete’ Partnership With Iraqis      
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq, Dec. 19, 2007 - There must be a “full and complete” partnership between coalition and Iraqi security forces for success in the country, the coalition’s day-to-day commander of ground operations in Iraq said.
12/19/2007 : Congressional Action Could Delay Furloughs, But Full War Funding Still Needed      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2007 - It’s too soon to start celebrating the Senate’s action to add $70 billion for Iraq war funding to the omnibus spending bill, the Pentagon press secretary told reporters.
12/19/2007 : Progress Continues in Ramadi, Mullen Notes During Visit      
RAMADI, Iraq, Dec. 19, 2007 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff visited Ramadi, Iraq, and said he’s amazed at the differences from a year ago.
12/19/2007 : Navy Invests in Protecting Marine Mammals      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2007 - No injuries to marine mammals have been attributed to sonar use since the Navy began taking additional steps to minimize harm to such animals, a Navy official said.
12/19/2007 : Iraq Report Cites Security Progress, Need for Other Efforts to Keep Pace      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2007 - The latest quarterly report on the situation in Iraq notes significant improvement across nearly every major category measured.
12/19/2007 : America Supports You: Vet Receives Hero’s Welcome, New Home  This story contains photos.    
CASTLE ROCK, Colo., Dec. 19, 2007 - A disabled Iraq war veteran thought he was going to pick out colors and tiles for a bathroom remodel, but instead was surprised with the keys to a new home.
12/19/2007 : Extremists in Iraq ‘Getting Desperate,’ Army Colonel Says      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2007 - Extremists are intimidating Iraqi citizens less and less, thanks to security improvements in the country, a unit commander there said.
12/19/2007 : ‘Gunfighters’ Keep Apache Helicopters Flying in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq, Dec. 19, 2007 - In today’s world of technologically advanced aviation, Army pilots alone cannot keep AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopters operational without ground crews.
12/19/2007 : Arizona City Helps Get Military News to State  This story contains photos.    
PEORIA, Ariz., Dec. 19, 2007 - Arizona cable subscribers will soon have better access to military news thanks to an agreement between an Arizona city and a national cable provider.
12/18/2007 : Chairman Stresses Commitment to Conditions-Based Redeployments      
TAQQADUM, Iraq, Dec. 18, 2007 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said he is firmly committed to allowing conditions on the ground in Iraq to dictate his future advice.
12/18/2007 : Mullen Shares His USO Memories on Holiday Tour  This story contains photos.    
TAQQADUM, Iraq, Dec. 18, 2007 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff fondly remembers the smiles USO entertainers brought to the faces of his crews, and he is seeking to spread those smiles around Iraq.
12/18/2007 : British Commanders Brief Mullen on Basra Turnover      
BASRA, Iraq, Dec. 18, 2007 - Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Michael G. Mullen stopped in Basra, Iraq, and spoke to British commanders about the recent transfer of the province to Iraqi control.
12/18/2007 : Chairman Issues Holiday Message      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2007 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff issued his holiday message, thanking military members and families for their service and asking that others remember their sacrifices.
12/18/2007 : Commander Cites Relationship-Building as Key to NORTHCOM’s Focus      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2007 - U.S. Northern Command is cementing a vast network of relationships critical to protecting the homeland against attacks or natural disasters and providing a unified response should one occur.
12/18/2007 : Report Reflects Future for Military’s Unmanned Systems      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2007 - A new Defense Department report reflects military needs and goals in acquiring improved unmanned systems.
12/18/2007 : Task Force Volunteers Deliver Food to Honduran Village  This story contains photos.    
CAPIRO, Honduras, Dec. 18, 2007 - U.S. servicemembers from Joint Task Force Bravo took to the mountains around Soto Cano Air Base to deliver food and supplies to Hondurans living off the beaten path.
12/18/2007 : Face of Defense: Personal Trainer Provides Fitness Advice  This story contains photos.    
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq, Dec. 18, 2007 - A master driver at Camp Victory, Iraq, became a licensed personal trainer in 2001 and has been helping others achieve a healthy lifestyle ever since.
12/18/2007 : Forces in Afghanistan Kill Insurgents, Destroy Roadside Bombs      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces killed more than 21 insurgent fighters and dismantled roadside bombs in Afghanistan, military officials said.
12/18/2007 : Troops Kill 5, Nab 30, Destroy Terrorist Tunnels in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces killed five suspected terrorists, detained 30 others and destroyed insurgent tunnels and weapons in Iraq over the past three days.
12/18/2007 : U.S. Team Opens Shelter for Afghan Women  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 18, 2007 - In a first for Afghanistan’s Kapisa province, the Bagram Provincial Reconstruction Team unveiled a new women’s shelter here Dec. 13.
12/18/2007 : Concerned Citizens Turn Over Large Cache in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq, Dec. 18, 2007 - Concerned local citizens near Bawi, Iraq, handed over a large weapons cache to soldiers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, Dec. 16.
12/18/2007 : America Supports You: Red Cross to Deliver Holiday Cards to Wounded      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2007 - This holiday season, the American Red Cross will make sure holiday greetings generically addressed to wounded troops at military medical facilities will find a home.
12/18/2007 : America Supports You: Virginia Guard Family Gets Extreme Dream Home  This story contains photos.    
ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 18, 2007 - Army National Guard Spc. Michael Lucas received an extra-special homecoming from Iraq when he and his family were selected for the ABC-TV reality show “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.”
12/18/2007 : Water Well Project Brings Gift of Life to Iraqi Villagers  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, Iraq, Dec. 18, 2007 - This month, Kazim, a village contractor, with help from U.S. Army civil affairs officials, is working to restore the drinking water supply for the Iraqi town of Sedamine and four surrounding villages.
12/17/2007 : Troops Detain Two, Nab Weapons, Aid Attack Victims in Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - Afghan and coalition troops detained two suspected Taliban members, seized weapons caches, and administered vital medical treatment to bombing victims in Afghanistan over the past week, military officials said.
12/17/2007 : Coalition Troops Kill Six, Seize 29 Suspected Terrorists in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - Coalition forces killed six suspected terrorists, detained 29 others and destroyed five weapons caches in Iraq over the past five days, military officials said.
12/17/2007 : Defense Travel System Maintains Customer Focus as Rollout Continues      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - Halfway through the rollout of the Defense Travel System, officials say it’s streamlining the travel process while improving service.
12/17/2007 : Company of Soldiers Visits Afghan School  This story contains photos.    
KUNAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 17, 2007 - Paratroopers from Company D, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), also known as “The Rock,” visited a school nestled along the banks of the Pech River in Bar Narang, Afghanistan, earlier this month.
12/17/2007 : Bush Vows Support for Wounded Troops, Addresses Iran Threat  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - America’s wounded troops are getting the best medical care possible, and the country is committed to ensuring the bureaucratic system serves them equally well, President Bush said.
12/17/2007 : Travel Policy Change Benefits Military Families      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - Military families now can access military-supplied air transport to travel to their official “homes of record” located outside the continental United States when their sponsors are deployed for 120 days or more.
12/17/2007 : Face of Defense: Extra Effort in Kitchen Keeps Morale High  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE FORTRESS, Afghanistan, Dec. 17, 2007 - Cooks at a forward operating base in Afghanistan bring a personal touch to their duties to keep their fellow soldiers' morale high.
12/17/2007 : Success in Iraq, Afghanistan Critical to Military Way Ahead, Mullen Says      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - Joint Chiefs Chairman Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen said U.S. troops are performing “magnificently,” but added that he is concerned about stress on ground forces.
12/17/2007 : USO Tour Enters High Gear During Show in Kuwait  This story contains photos.    
CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait, Dec. 17, 2007 - It was time to rock out at the Camp Arifjan logistics base in Kuwait, as the USO Holiday Tour entered high gear.
12/17/2007 : America Supports You: Group Works to Help, Honor Servicemembers      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - Mike’s Guardian Eagle Foundation offers financial aid to military members and their families.
12/17/2007 : Basra Province Returns to Iraqi Control  This story contains photos.    
BASRA, Iraq, Dec. 17, 2007 - Multinational Division Southeast relinquished control of Iraq’s Basra province to the Iraqi government. “This event ensures the progress of the abilities of Iraqi armed forces in training, efficiency and personal integrity,” the Iraqi national security advisor said.
12/17/2007 : Iraqi Children Get New Wheelchairs  This story contains photos.    
CAMP STRIKER, Iraq, Dec. 17, 2007 - Fifteen Iraqi children can get around easier, thanks to the new wheelchairs they received earlier this month at the Radwaniyah Palace Complex Civil-Military Operations Center.
12/17/2007 : Commander Reflects on Successes in Baghdad      This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - Working with Iraqi forces and citizens, coalition forces in Baghdad have made significant progress against al Qaeda.
12/17/2007 : Sergeant Major of the Army, USO Bring Cheer to Task Force Marne  This story contains photos.    
CAMP STRIKER, Iraq, Dec. 17, 2007 - Entertaining troops for six years in a row, the 2007 Hope and Freedom USO Tour brought its show to soldiers in Baghdad.
12/17/2007 : Entertainers Begin Holiday Tour of Overseas Bases  This story contains photos.    
SOUTHWEST ASIA, Dec. 17, 2007 - Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Michael G. Mullen is bringing United Service Organizations entertainers to visit with troops in seven countries in the Middle East, Central Asia and Europe.
12/17/2007 : Petraeus Calls British Turnover of Basra Control 'Positive Step'      This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - In a Dec. 16, 2007 statement, U.S. Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, Multinational Force Iraq commander, and Patricia A. Butenis, chargé d'affaires, said "the United States and Multinational Force Iraq welcome the transfer of security responsibility in Basra province to Iraqi responsibility as a positive step on the path to Iraq's self-reliance."
12/16/2007 : America Supports You: Volunteers Decorate Veterans’ Graves      
ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 16, 2007 - In a few hours in freezing temperatures, about 3,000 volunteers placed more than 10,000 balsam fir wreaths with blazing red bows on graves at Arlington National Cemetery.
12/16/2007 : President Calls on Congress for Action on War Funding      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16, 2007 - President Bush used his weekly radio address to call on Congress to pass critical funding for the war on terror before the Defense Department is forced to begin furloughing civilian employees.
12/14/2007 : Micro-Grants Put Iraq Small Business Back on Track      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - A local butcher in Iraq is back to work in a new shop with plenty of customers and plans to expand, thanks in part to small grants to local business owners to jump-start their operations.
12/14/2007 : Extremists Alienate Themselves from Iraqis, General Says      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - Beleaguered by surge-fortified Iraqi and coalition forces, al Qaeda and other extremists also are quickly losing any influence they may have had among the local populace.
12/14/2007 : Navy, Army Secretaries Warn of Possible Furloughs, Constraints      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - Navy Secretary Donald C. Winter and Army Secretary Pete Geren sent letters to installation commanders, telling them to prepare for possible furloughs due to a lack of funding for the global war on terror.
12/14/2007 : Bush Reports to Congress on Scope of Force Deployments      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - President Bush reported to Congress on the scope of overseas deployments to support the war on terror, emphasizing that he’ll direct additional measures as necessary to ensure the United States can protect its citizens and interests.
12/14/2007 : U.S. NORTHCOM Directs Possible Storm Aid for Icy Midwest  This story contains photos.    This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - Active military elements are preparing to assist federal emergency responders to help beleaguered Midwest residents cope with the effects of recent massive ice storms, a senior U.S. military officer told Pentagon reporters.
12/14/2007 : Educating Juveniles Key to Future Security in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - Terrorists in Iraq are preying on the country’s juveniles, a top Army commander there said.
12/14/2007 : America Supports You: Project Keeps Mail Moving to Troops      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - Staten Island residents sending mail to servicemembers are getting help from a local troop-support group.
12/14/2007 : U.S. to Draft Integrated Plan for Afghan Help  This story contains photos.    
EDINBURGH, Scotland, Dec. 14, 2007 - The United States will prepare an integrated plan to examine alliance goals in Afghanistan and set out a roadmap for allies to follow, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said in Edinburgh, Scotland.
12/14/2007 : Troops Purge Taliban Fighters From Afghan District      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - Afghan and coalition troops conducted follow-up operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan, after week-long clashes with Taliban fighters largely cleared the area of insurgents.
12/14/2007 : Military Sealift Command to Deliver Largest MRAP Shipment  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - More than 200 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles were loaded onto a ship operated by Military Sealift Command bound for Iraq and Afghanistan.
12/14/2007 : Afghan Border Police Improve Marksmanship Capabilities  This story contains photos.    
KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 14, 2007 - Americans in Afghanistan helped the Afghan Border Police in eastern Khowst improve their capabilities by training them to effectively fire Soviet-designed machine guns.
12/14/2007 : U.S. Troops Help Renovate Iraqi Clinic      
COMBAT OUTPOST CLEARY, Iraq, Dec. 14, 2007 - Soldiers attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open a health clinic in Wahida, Iraq, and marked the occasion by providing free medical attention to citizens.
12/14/2007 : Why We Serve: Lieutenant Proudly Carries On Family’s Legacy of Service  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2007 - Six members from three generations of Tabitha White’s family have served in the military, so her service in the Marine Corps is a point of pride she takes seriously.
12/13/2007 : America Supports You: USO Elves to Host Troops at BWI Airport      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13, 2007 - Santa’s USO elves will host about 2,000 troops slated to transit through Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport before catching flights home to their families and loved ones.
12/13/2007 : Guard Members Respond to Midwest Ice Storms  This story contains photos.    
Arlington, Va., Dec. 13, 2007 - More than 140 National Guard members responded to a band of deadly mid-December storms from eastern Texas into northern New York and New England. Inch-thick ice brought down trees and power lines, leaving thousands in need of emergency assistance.
12/13/2007 : Baghdad-Area Surge Operations Garner More Success      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13, 2007 - Ongoing U.S. military efforts to disrupt insurgent operations in and around Baghdad are garnering continued success, a senior military officer posted in Iraq said.
12/13/2007 : Wounded Warrior Program Provides Enduring Support to Families      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13, 2007 - There’s no set limit on how long the U.S. Army Wounded Warrior program will provide one-on-one service to severely wounded soldiers and their families, a U.S. Army official said.
12/13/2007 : Afghan Border Police Set Up Traffic Control Point  This story contains photos.    
KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 13, 2007 - Coalition mentors recently guided the Afghan Border Police in Khowst province to make notable improvements at a border control point.
12/13/2007 : Gates Arrives in Scotland for Afghan Meetings  This story contains photos.    
EDINBURGH, Scotland, Dec. 13, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and R. Nicholas Burns, undersecretary of state for political affairs, arrived in Edinburgh, Scotland, for meetings with allies working in Regional Command South in Afghanistan.
12/13/2007 : U.S. Leaders in Iraq Condemn Amarah Attack      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13, 2007 - Top U.S. military and diplomatic leaders in Iraq condemned a car-bomb attack that targeted civilians in Amarah.
12/13/2007 : Academy Officials: Sexual Assault Reporting Shows System is Working      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13, 2007 - Officials are calling 40 reports of sexual assault at the U.S. service academies during the 2006-2007 school year a sign that programs designed to encourage victims to report are working.
12/13/2007 : Service Academies Make Progress in Preventing Sexual Assault, Harassment      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13, 2007 - A Defense Department report concludes that the service academies have made “great progress” in establishing prevention and response programs for sexual harrasment and violence.
12/13/2007 : Heidelberg Staff Retraces Historical Battle of the Bulge  This story contains photos.    
BUTGENBACH, Belgium, Dec. 13, 2007 - U.S. Army Garrison Heidelberg leaders and staff members retraced the route of the 6th Panzer Army’s thrust into Belgium, seeing where soldiers thwarted Hitler’s plan to split the Allied advance into Germany and capture the port of Antwerp, Belgium.
12/13/2007 : Program Supplies Iraqi Veterinarians  This story contains photos.    
CAMP TAJI, Iraq, Dec. 13, 2007 - U.S. soldiers are bringing supplies to Iraqi veterinarians to help them get back to work.
12/13/2007 : Face of Defense: Virginia Soldier's Service Bonds Family  This story contains photos.    
RAMADI, Iraq, Dec. 13, 2007 - For Army Spc. Gerald Bradner, serving in Iraq is a way to relate to family members.
12/12/2007 : Army Looks at Long-Term Need for Mine-Resistant Vehicles      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12, 2007 - The Army has not made a formal proposal to cut its order for mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles, but officials are looking at the service’s long-term need.
12/12/2007 : America Supports You: Artist Gives Music, Time to Troops  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12, 2007 - The singer-songwriter known as Five for Fighting will give away some 200,000 free CDs for U.S. troops.
12/12/2007 : Gates Plans Scotland Trip to Discuss Afghanistan With Allies      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates will travel to Edinburgh, Scotland, for meetings with allies with troops in southern Afghanistan.
12/12/2007 : Kosovo Force Watches Fighting, Shooting – NHL Style  This story contains photos.    
PRISTINA, Kosovo, Dec. 12, 2007 - Troops in Kosovo had a chance to enjoy a live telecast of a National Hockey League game that featured pictures of themselves. “I e-mailed everyone I know,” said Army Lt. Col. Elaine Berkowitz.
12/12/2007 : Congressional Report Confirms Furlough Predictions      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12, 2007 - A Congressional Research Service report confirms the Defense Department estimate for when the Army and Marine Corps will be forced to furlough civilians and shutter bases.
12/12/2007 : Gates: Lack of Supplemental Funds Would Hurt Afghan Mission      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12, 2007 - A lack of supplemental war funding from Congress would affect U.S. training efforts for Afghan soldiers and police, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told federal legislators.
12/12/2007 : Coalition, Iraqi Troops Kill 14, Detain 13 Insurgents      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces killed 14 terrorists and detained 13 suspected insurgents during operations targeting al Qaeda networks in Iraq.
12/12/2007 : New Year Brings Higher Housing Allowance to Most Recipients      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12, 2007 - Most servicemembers will receive a higher housing allowance in 2008 with the average increase more than doubling over last year.
12/12/2007 : 4th Infantry Division Soldiers Moving Into Iraq      
CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait, Dec. 12, 2007 - The 4th Infantry Division began deploying to Kuwait in early November for final preparations before taking over as the headquarters element of Multinational Division Baghdad.
12/12/2007 : Afghan Forces Provide Medical Treatment to More Than 700 Villagers  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 12, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces treated more than 700 Afghans during a Dec. 7-8 medical operation. It was "an overwhelming success,” an Afghan soldier said. “We are trying to limit the Afghans’ suffering.”
12/12/2007 : Face of Defense: ‘Doc’ Becker Defines Combat Medic  This story contains photos.    
NANGARHAR, Afghanistan, Dec. 12, 2007 - Army Pfc. Sarah Becker has spent most of her year deployed as an Army medic gaining the respect of soldiers across Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province.
12/11/2007 : Weakened Taliban Step Up Attacks, Mullen Says      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 11, 2007 - Taliban attacks have picked up in Afghanistan this year, but the group is growing weaker.
12/11/2007 : Gates Expresses Optimism on Afghanistan, But Counsels Caution      This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 11, 2007 - Efforts to stabilize Afghanistan are achieving “solid results,” but the mission isn’t over, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told U.S. legislators.
12/11/2007 : Defense Department Notifies Congress of Furlough Moves      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 11, 2007 - The Defense Department has officially notified Congress that the department will begin the furlough process for some civilian employees.
12/11/2007 : Face of Defense: Cancer Can't Stop Man's Dream of Air Force Service      
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass., Dec. 11, 2007 - Kyle Causey fulfilled a lifelong dream when he left Massachusetts for Texas to attend Air Force Basic Military Training. It took him more than six years, and he had to defeat cancer to reach this milestone.
12/11/2007 : Iraq Operations Net Key Suspects; Rocket Attacks Drop      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 11, 2007 - Coalition forces in Iraq killed one terrorist, captured another and detained 30 suspects.
12/11/2007 : South Korean Engineers Say Farewell to Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHARANA, Afghanistan, Dec. 11, 2007 - Engineers from the Republic of Korea will return home after completing their mission in Afghanistan.
12/11/2007 : America Supports You: Chilean Winery Lends Group Top-Shelf Support  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 11, 2007 - A Chilean winery, through its U.S. marketer, is helping to make sure servicemembers stationed away from home this holiday season can stay in touch with loved ones.
12/11/2007 : Active, Reserve Components Meet November Recruiting Goals      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 11, 2007 - For the sixth month in a row, all services -- active and reserve -- made their recruiting goals.
12/11/2007 : Officials Dedicate Broadcast Studio to Fallen Marine Public Affairs Officer      
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq, Dec. 11, 2007 - Multinational Corps Iraq dedicated its new broadcast studio to a Marine public affairs officer killed last year in Iraq.
12/10/2007 : Military Officials Urge Accession to Law of Sea Treaty      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Military officials encouraged the Senate to ratify a treaty that would guarantee aspects of vital passage and overflight.
12/10/2007 : British PM Says Basra to Soon Come Under Iraqi Control      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Basra, Iraq's second-largest city, will be turned over to Iraqi provincial control in two weeks.
12/10/2007 : Face of Defense: Army Chef Spices Up Pentagon Channel  This story contains photos.    This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Army Sgt. 1st Class Brad Turner serves a new recipe for entertainment during “The Grill Sergeants," a cooking show on the Pentagon Channel.
12/10/2007 : Coalition Forces Break Ground on Future Afghan Development      
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 10, 2007 - Commanders of two coalition task forces met with Afghan government officials to discuss rebuilding infrastructure and developing health care in the country’s Parwan province.
12/10/2007 : Troops Kill Militants, Detain 10 in Afghanistan Operation      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces targeted insurgent networks in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, killing several militants and detaining 10 others.
12/10/2007 : Positive Trends in Anbar Permanent, Coalition Commander Says      This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Positive trends in Iraq’s Anbar province are permanent, the commander of coalition forces in western Iraq said.
12/10/2007 : Face of Defense: Humanitarian Mission Leads to Unlikely Connection      
BAGHDAD, Dec. 10, 2007 - A soldier in Iraq now serves under a military dentist who treated his parents at a refugee camp in the Philippines a quarter century ago.
12/10/2007 : Forces Capture Numerous Terrorist Suspects in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Coalition forces captured several wanted individuals and dozens of additional suspects during operations targeting al Qaeda networks throughout Iraq.
12/10/2007 : Concerned Citizens Help to Stem Violence in Iraq      This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Coalition forces in Iraq are getting help from local concerned citizen groups in what officials say is the most effective way to stem violence.
12/10/2007 : Soldiers Show Iraqi Children How to Stay Healthy  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, Dec. 10, 2007 - Soldiers from Multinational Division Baghdad conducted a health fair for students at the Al Aflaph elementary school in the Salhiyah neighborhood of Baghdad.
12/10/2007 : Reduced Violence in Iraq Enables More Emphasis on Long-Term Stability      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Violence in Iraq has been stabilized enough to allow governmental, economic and social advances to move forward, a Multinational Corps Iraq official said.
12/10/2007 : Understanding Helps Families, Soldiers Deal With Brain Injuries      
SCHWEINFURT, Germany, Dec. 10, 2007 - A pilot program is assessing soldiers returning to Germany from Iraq for possible mild traumatic brain injury.
12/10/2007 : America Supports You: Deployed Units Get Boost From Donated Computers      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Many deployed servicemembers have received a morale boost thanks to computers donated by a Michigan-based group.
12/08/2007 : Multilateral Cooperation Critical to Gulf Region Security, Gates Says  This story contains photos.    
MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 8, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates pressed for multilateral cooperation to better protect the Persian Gulf region from destabilizing forces.
12/08/2007 : Arab World Must Support Iraqi Progress, Gates Says  This story contains photos.    
MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 8, 2007 - Iraq’s neighbors must help the country succeed as a peaceful, stabilizing force in the region, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said.
12/08/2007 : Gates Calls for Continued International Pressure on Iran  This story contains photos.    
MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 8, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates called on the international community to keep up its pressure on Iran.
12/07/2007 : Pearl Harbor Survivor Emphasizes Need for Vigilance  This story contains photos.    This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - A survivor of the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, said it's important to remember the lessons the nation learned.
12/07/2007 : Army Prepares to Launch New Pay, Personnel System      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - The Army is getting ready to launch a new pay and personnel system next year that will streamline personnel processes and integrate the active-duty, National Guard and Army Reserve components.
12/07/2007 : U.S. Generals: ‘Jury Still Out’ on Flow of Weapons From Iran  This story contains photos.    This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - Though U.S. officials now believe Iran stopped its nuclear weapons program four years ago, the jury is still out on the extent to which Tehran is influencing the battlefield in Iraq.
12/07/2007 : Commanders in Iraq Assess Situation Before Changing Force Levels  This story contains photos.    This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - Commanders in Iraq have adjusted the force posture and will continue to make assessments before the next redeployments.
12/07/2007 : Army Air Power Boosts Surge Effectiveness in Central Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - As ground forces in Iraq make more progress against insurgents, Army aviation assets back them up with crucial mobility, medical and combat support.
12/07/2007 : Coalition, Afghan Forces Defeat Taliban in Two Operations      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - Afghan and coalition soldiers foiled a Taliban ambush in the Kariz-e Sadeqin area of Afghanistan’s Farah province.
12/07/2007 : Face of Defense: Nigerian Native Serves With Pride as American Soldier  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq, Dec. 7, 2007 - Army Staff Sgt. Obinna Awusah’s peers say he goes the extra mile to accomplish a mission and always places the needs of others before his own.
12/07/2007 : Coalition Forces Detain Dozens of Terrorists in Iraq Operations      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - Coalition forces captured two wanted individuals and seven additional suspects during an operation to disrupt al Qaeda networks in Iraq’s capital city.
12/07/2007 : Army Unit, Civil Affairs Team Hand Out $10,000 in Micro-grants  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, Dec. 7, 2007 - U.S. soldiers handed out $10,000 in micro-grant funds to an Iraqi small business and a home for mentally handicapped children.
12/07/2007 : Afghan Soldiers, Police Begin EOD Course  This story contains photos.    
MAZAR-E-SHARIF, Afghanistan, Dec. 7, 2007 - Nearly 40 Afghan soldiers and policemen have completed the first of five training phases to learn to safely handle unexploded ordnance.
12/07/2007 : America Supports You: Technology Center Helps Vets Transition  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - Transitioning from military to civilian life can be daunting for some, but one group is helping to streamline the process.
12/07/2007 : Gates to Address Gulf Regional Security at Manama Dialogue  This story contains photos.    
MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 7, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates will encourage closer cooperation to promote security in the Persian Gulf region at the fourth annual Manama Dialogue in Bahrain.
12/07/2007 : Why We Serve: Marine from Big City Transformed by Iraqi Desert  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - Marine Cpl. Sean M. Henry is telling the military’s story to the American public as part of the Defense Department’s “Why We Serve” public outreach program.
12/07/2007 : Gates Appraises Maritime Contribution to Gulf Region Security  This story contains photos.    
MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 7, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates commemorated a historic date in U.S. naval history -- Pearl Harbor Day -- at U.S. Naval Forces Central Command headquarters in Bahrain.
12/06/2007 : Foreign Area Officers Help Bridge Cultural Divides      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - A cadre of military officers with special foreign language training and cultural expertise are helping the U.S. military bridge gaps between American allies and local foreign populations.
12/06/2007 : Department Works to Keep Homeland Secure      This story contains video.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - The U.S. military is prepared to defend the United States and support civil authorities in ways not even thought of a decade ago.
12/06/2007 : Murders Drop to 2-Year Low in Baghdad Boundary Region      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - Reported murders in a region adjacent to Baghdad on the city’s eastern boundary have dropped to levels not seen in two years.
12/06/2007 : Navy’s Medical Support Vital to Operations, Surgeon General Says      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - Throughout the Middle East, the U.S. Navy provides vital medical support to U.S. troops serving in the war on terror.
12/06/2007 : Coalition Focuses on Iraqi Police Infrastructure, Organization      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - As Iraqi police forces grow, the coalition is focusing on organizational strategies to sustain officers and departments for the long-term.
12/06/2007 : Security, Economy in Iraq Improving From Local Level Up      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - A focus on security in local areas has brought about an improvement in security throughout Iraq, and officials believe the country’s economy needs to follow a similar track.
12/06/2007 : USS Essex Sailors, Marines Build Friendships in Cambodia      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - The USS Essex and the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit were part of a “friendship-building event” with Cambodia.
12/06/2007 : Terrorist Networks Disrupted; Three Terrorists Killed, 19 Detained      
BAGHDAD, Dec. 6, 2007 - Coalition forces killed three terrorists and detained 19 suspects during operations to disrupt al Qaeda activities along the Tigris River Valley in Iraq.
12/06/2007 : America Supports You: Group Seeks Outstanding Military Fathers      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - The National Fatherhood Initiative is looking for a few good military fathers for the 2008 NFI Lockheed Martin Military Fatherhood Award.
12/06/2007 : Gates Tours USS Vicksburg During Ship’s Port Call in Bahrain  This story contains photos.    
MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 6, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates visited the USS Vicksburg in Bahrain to tour the vessel, meet its crew and thank them for their service in the Persian Gulf region.
12/06/2007 : Everyday Heroes Receive Defense Department Awards  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2007 - Defense officials lauded 16 of its workers for being everyday heroes in overcoming disabilities.
12/06/2007 : Gates: Iraq Visit Demonstrates Progress, Need for Political Action  This story contains photos.    This story contains video.
MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 6, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said the broad perspectives he’s received in Iraq over the last two days have convinced him Iraq is on the right track.
12/06/2007 : Petraeus: Violence in Iraq Down, But Fight Not Over      
BAGHDAD, Dec. 6, 2007 - Violence in Iraq has dropped significantly in recent months, but it’s too soon to declare the home stretch in U.S. operations, the commander of Multinational Forces Iraq said.
12/06/2007 : Constant Security Helps Adhamiyah Markets Grow  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, Dec. 6, 2007 - Iraqis have once again begun to fill the market streets of a northeastern Baghdad neighborhood.
12/05/2007 : First Lady Gets Update on Challenges Facing Military Youth  This story contains photos.    
ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md., Dec. 5, 2007 - First lady Laura Bush attended a special event at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., to learn about challenges facing military youth and to let them know they’re not forgotten.
12/05/2007 : Joint Memo Increases Coordination on Security Contractors in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2007 - State and Defense department officials signed a joint memorandum that will increase coordination concerning private security contractors in Iraq.
12/05/2007 : Top Marine Explains Cut in Purchase of Mine-resistant Vehicles  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2007 - Improved conditions in Iraq and a desire to remain a light, mobile force caused the Marine Corps cut its order for mine-resistant, ambush–protected vehicles, a decision that included careful assessment of its effect on safety of deployed forces, the commandant of the Marine Corps said.
12/05/2007 : Marines Won’t Move to Afghanistan for Now, Conway Says  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2007 - The idea of Marine units moving into Afghanistan to replace Army units is off the table for now.
12/05/2007 : Police Team Commander Outlines Challenges for Iraq's Interior Ministry      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2007 - Though the rapid growth of Iraq’s Interior Ministry has posed challenges, the Iraqis are forging ahead with the process and seeing progress.
12/05/2007 : Kosovo Task Force Prepared for Conflict, Commander Says      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2007 - As negotiations on Kosovo’s “final status” are expected to reach a political stalemate, a top commander in NATO’s Kosovo Force said his troops are prepared for any potential conflict.
12/05/2007 : Commanders Tell Gates Iraq Policy Working, Urge Vigilance      
BAGHDAD, Dec. 5, 2007 - Field commanders deployed throughout Iraq gathered in Baghdad to tell Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates that the U.S. strategy in Iraq is working and to urge vigilance in seeing it through.
12/05/2007 : U.S., China Agree to Strengthen Military Relations      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2007 - The United States-Peoples’ Republic of China annual defense consultative talks ended with the two nations agreeing to increase military-to-military ties.
12/05/2007 : Gates Seeks to Build on Positive Momentum in Iraq      
BAGHDAD, Dec. 5, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates talked with Iraqi leaders and U.S. commanders in Iraq to explore ways to maintain and build on recent momentum.
12/05/2007 : Several Militants Killed in Afghanistan Operation      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2007 - Several militants were killed during a coalition operation to disrupt foreign-fighter and weapons facilitation networks in Afghanistan’s Helmand province.
12/05/2007 : Coalition Captures Weapons, Foreign Terrorist Facilitators      
BAGHDAD, Dec. 5, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 10 suspected terrorists during operations to disrupt al Qaeda operations in central and northern Iraq.
12/05/2007 : Face of Defense: Reserve Commander Delivers Cheer to Afghans  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 5, 2007 - Air Force Lt. Gen. John A. Bradley, commander of Air Force Reserve Command, arrived at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, with more than 25,000 pounds of supplies for Afghan families, collected by his wife, Jan.
12/05/2007 : Soldiers Mentor Afghan Border Police  This story contains photos.    
KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 5, 2007 - Soldiers who mentor border police in Afghanistan's Khowst province find there is plenty of action, variety and adaptation involved in sharing their skills.
12/04/2007 : Moderate Detainees Help to Identify Extremists in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2007 - Moderate Muslims held in coalition detention centers in Iraq are turning in radical Muslim detainees on a daily basis.
12/04/2007 : NATO Helps to Create New Opportunities for Afghans      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2007 - NATO aims to render the Taliban and other extremists in Afghanistan irrelevant by establishing a security landscape that allows the creation of news jobs and bolsters faith in national institutions.
12/04/2007 : America Supports You: Chefs Let Wounded Troops Taste Gratitude  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2007 - In an effort to lift spirits and say “thank you” during the holiday season, 10 Washington-area chefs presented recovering servicemembers and their families with a mouth-watering meal.
12/04/2007 : Gates Praises Progress of Afghan Security Forces      
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 4, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates reaffirmed U.S. support for Afghanistan and praised the progress made by Afghan forces.
12/04/2007 : Gates: Intelligence Estimate Shows Need to Keep Up Pressure on Iran      
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 4, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates pointed to the new national intelligence estimate as evidence that non-military means are the best way for the U.S. to deal with Iran’s nuclear enrichment program.
12/04/2007 : Troops Detain Suspected Taliban Extremists, Find Weapons      
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 4, 2007 - Coalition forces detained four suspected militants during an operation to disrupt extremist networks in Afghanistan’s Oruzgan province..
12/04/2007 : Coalition Forces Disrupt Terrorist Elements in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2007 - Coalition forces killed two terrorists and detained 25 suspects during operations designed to disrupt al Qaeda operations in central and northern Iraq.
12/04/2007 : Coalition, Iraqi Forces Make Gains Against al Qaeda      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces have made significant recent gains against al Qaeda.
12/04/2007 : Gates Lauds Progress in Afghanistan’s Khowst Province      
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 4, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates visited Afghanistan’s Khowst province to see firsthand “a model of concerted counterinsurgency effort, the synergy that comes from an integration of ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ powers.”
12/04/2007 : Army Civilians Could Receive Furlough Notices by Christmas      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2007 - Some Army civilians may get layoff notices before Christmas because emergency war funds have not been approved.
12/04/2007 : Bush Says Iran Still Poses Threat      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2007 - The new national intelligence estimate on Iran’s nuclear program proves Iran is still a threat to world peace, President Bush said.
12/04/2007 : Baghdad Zoo Opens New Horse Stables, Pool  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, Dec. 4, 2007 - Soldiers of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, were on hand to reopen the Baghdad Zoo's latest projects: an indoor horse stable and a children’s swimming pool.
12/04/2007 : Soldiers Overcome Afghanistan Terrain Challenges  This story contains photos.    
KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 4, 2007 - Mentoring Afghan national security forces puts coalition soldiers everywhere in Afghanistan, which means a lot of wear and tear on their vehicles. But that’s not stopping them.
12/04/2007 : Face of Defense: Scout Learns Arabic to Help Platoon, Mission  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, Dec. 4, 2007 - When Sgt. Jason Stisser, of Troop O, 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, found out he was coming back to Iraq, he quickly brushed up on his Arabic.
12/03/2007 : Intel Community Reports on Iran’s Nuclear Program      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - A new intelligence estimate that says Iran stopped its covert nuclear weapons program in 2003 is good news, but also presents cause for concern.
12/03/2007 : Brigade Has Lifted ‘Blanket of Fear’ in Southern Baghdad      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - Soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Division have "lifted the blanket of fear” that al Qaeda imposed on the Sunni communities under its protection.
12/03/2007 : Officials Cut Ribbon for New Afghan School  This story contains photos.    
MAZAR-E-SHARIF, Afghanistan, Dec. 3, 2007 - Coalition mentors stationed in northern Afghanistan continue to take interest in the country’s future by investing time and money in the “younger generation.”
12/03/2007 : Leaflets Urge Iraqis to Help Capture Insurgent Militia Members  This story contains photos.    
SOUTHWEST ASIA, Dec. 3, 2007 - More than 1 million leaflets were pushed out of a 40th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron C-130 Hercules over 10 designated drop zones in Iraq, urging local citizens to provide information on three top leaders of an armed insurgent militia
12/03/2007 : U.S.-China Consultative Talks Under Way in Pentagon      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - The United States-Peoples’ Republic of China Defense Consultative Talks got under way at the Pentagon in the shadow of China’s refusal to let U.S. ships make port calls in Hong Kong.
12/03/2007 : America Supports You: Toys Salute Soldiers with Holiday Classic      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - For the past four years, the Community Ballet Association of Huntsville, Ala., has recognized the sacrifices of servicemembers past and present with a special performance of the holiday classic "The Nutcracker."
12/03/2007 : Bush Asks Congress to Pass Funds for Troops      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - Congress needs to act soon to approve emergency funding for troops in the war on terror, President Bush said.
12/03/2007 : Military Kids Attend White House Holiday Party  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - President Bush told 200 military children gathered in the East Room of the White House for a holiday party that he admires their parents and is grateful for their service.
12/03/2007 : Five Guard Brigades Alerted for 2009 Deployments      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - Defense officials announced the deployment of five National Guard brigade combat teams to begin in summer 2009.
12/03/2007 : Top Enlisted Member Says He’s Alive Because Someone ‘Checked It’      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - The nation's top enlisted member credits a first sergeant's willingness to "Check It" with saving his life in Iraq.
12/03/2007 : Precision Coalition Strike Kills Several Militants in Afghanistan      
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 3, 2007 - Several militants were killed during a coalition operation targeting Taliban command-and-control networks in Afghanistan’s Helmand province.
12/03/2007 : Coalition Forces Disrupt Terrorist Operations, Detain Seven      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - Coalition forces detained seven suspects during operations to disrupt al Qaeda operations in Tarmiyah, Iraq.
12/03/2007 : Face of Defense: Army Engineer Hopes He’s Making a Difference  This story contains photos.    
BASRA, Iraq, Dec. 3, 2007 - Army Maj. Rick Smith’s job in Iraq includes coordinating and building relationships between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the British army.
12/03/2007 : Gates Arrives in Afghanistan to Assess Conditions      
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 3, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates arrived in Afghanistan to get a face-to-face assessment from commanders about conditions on the ground.
12/03/2007 : Virtual Spouse Support Group Holds Conference at Fort Bragg      
FORT BRAGG, N.C., Dec. 3, 2007 - The sacrifice and shared understanding among military spouses was the focus of the third “SpouseBuzzLive” conference near Fort Bragg, N.C.
12/03/2007 : Gates Assesses ‘Soft,’ ‘Hard’ Power Applications in Djibouti      
CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti, Dec. 3, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates traveled to Djibouti to see firsthand how to prevent terrorism in the Horn of Africa.
12/02/2007 : Bush Urges Congress to Approve Funds for Troops in Combat      
WASHINGTON, Dec. 2, 2007 - President Bush said Congress must act quickly to approve a bill to fund troops fighting in the war on terrorism.
12/02/2007 : Navy Claims Sixth Straight Football Victory Over Army  This story contains photos.    
BALTIMORE, Dec. 2, 2007 - The U.S. Naval Academy is celebrating Navy's historic sixth straight win over Army after a 38-3 victory in the 108th Army-Navy football game in Baltimore, Dec. 1.
News Archive News Archive