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03/31/2009 : Language Emerges as Element of National Security      
WASHINGTON, March 31, 2009 - Language and culture are “almost inextricably intertwined,” and military personnel must be knowledgeable in both to be fully effective when operating overseas, the director of a military language school said.
03/31/2009 : Clinton Calls for Renewed, Patient International Commitment to Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 31, 2009 - What happens in Afghanistan affects all nations, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said during international talks, as she called for renewed, but patient, international support for the country.
03/31/2009 : Combat Outpost Serves as Front Line in Afghanistan Fight  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 31, 2009 - Next to a small village in Afghanistan’s fertile Jalrez Valley, a platoon of U.S. soldiers make the most of their small outpost on the front lines.
03/31/2009 : Mullen Cites High Priority of Afghanistan-Pakistan Strategy      
WASHINGTON, March 31, 2009 - Executing President Barack Obama’s strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan is the U.S. military's top priority, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff told defense leaders from Central Asia.
03/31/2009 : President’s Plan Signals U.S. Commitment to Bolster Afghan Security      
WASHINGTON, March 31, 2009 - President Barack Obama’s decision to send 4,000 extra U.S. military trainers to Afghanistan to mentor that country’s soldiers and police signals the United States’ commitment to bolster security there.
03/31/2009 : Pentagon Report Cites Gains in Iraq, Despite Rifts      
WASHINGTON, March 31, 2009 - The security and political situation in Iraq continues to improve, but ethno-sectarian agendas and other obstacles remain, according to a Defense report.
03/31/2009 : One Killed, 12 Detained in Afghanistan Operations      
KABUL, March 31, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed one person and detained four known militants and eight suspected militants in Afghanistan’s Khowst province.
03/31/2009 : Petraeus Emphasizes Shared Goals at Defense Chiefs Conference      
WASHINGTON, March 31, 2009 - A meeting of defense leaders re-emphasizes the shared commitments of Central Asia and the United States to security and stability in the region.
03/31/2009 : Face of Defense: Amputee Pilot Completes Third Deployment  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 31, 2009 - What sets Air Force Maj. Alan Brown apart from other airmen in the gym on Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, isn't his workout routine. It's his right leg.
03/31/2009 : Iraqi Special Ops Forces, Air Force Conduct Joint Medevac Mission  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, March 31, 2009 - Iraqi special operations forces and their air force partners teamed up recently to conduct their first joint medical evacuation from the Iraqi capital.
03/31/2009 : Circus Helps Group Ship Care Packages to Deployed Troops      
WASHINGTON, March 31, 2009 - Servicemembers serving overseas will receive care packages thanks to the hard work of volunteers and the generosity of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
03/31/2009 : Vets Bring Encouragement, Example to Newly Disabled Comrades  This story contains photos.    
SNOWMASS VILLAGE, Colo., March 31, 2009 - Seriously injured veterans get to test their athletic skills at the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic in Colorado, and learn from each other about how to cope with disabilities.
03/31/2009 : Empowerment Program Helps to Educate Afghans  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 31, 2009 - Thousands of Afghans are improving their basic reading and math skills, and local teachers are receiving training under a U.S.-funded program.
03/31/2009 : U.S., Georgia to Continue Strategic Partnership      
TBILISI, Georgia, March 31, 2009 - The United States and Georgia will continue to work on a strategic partnership over the coming years, the vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said during his visit to the former Soviet republic.
03/30/2009 : On the Ground: U.S. Forces in Iraq Build Schools, Provide Job Training  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2009 - U.S. forces in Iraq have helped reopen two schools and trained former “Sons of Iraq” civilian security group members for new jobs in recent weeks.
03/30/2009 : U.S. Northern Command Assists With North Dakota Flooding      
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2009 - U.S. Northern Command continues to coordinate Defense Department support to federal state and local authorities in North Dakota and Minnesota supporting disaster operations in response to flooding in North Dakota.
03/30/2009 : Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program Reaches Milestone      
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2009 - A program aimed at helping servicemembers and their families adjust to deploying to and returning from combat held its inaugural meeting at the Pentagon.
03/30/2009 : Six States Send Troops to Flood Duty in North Dakota  This story contains photos.    
ARLINGTON, Va., March 30, 2009 - Governors in six upper Midwestern states have sent more than 2,400 National Guard members and some much-needed equipment to help fight flooding for a second week in North Dakota.
03/30/2009 : Chairman Recognizes Civil Servants for Defense Contributions      
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2009 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff today recognized eight civil servants for their positive impact on national security and their efforts in support of the Joint Staff throughout the past year.
03/30/2009 : On the Ground: Troops Provide Medical Care, Necessities to Afghans  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2009 - Coalition and Afghan forces are working to provide a better life for the citizens of Afghanistan.
03/30/2009 : Petraeus, Holbrooke Describe Afghanistan Strategy      
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2009 - The new U.S. strategy in Afghanistan will include unprecedented integration of military and civilian activities, two key leaders in the effort said.
03/30/2009 : Afghan, Coalition Forces Kill 11 in Southern, Western Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed 11 insurgents in separate firefights in southern and western Afghanistan, military officials said.
03/30/2009 : Face of Defense: Captain Mentors Teens in Senate Youth Program  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2009 - Air Force Capt. Ladonna Singleton was the only Air National Guard member to mentor students in the program that brings young people to the nation’s capital.
03/30/2009 : U.S., Iraqi Soldiers Protect Eastern Baghdad Highway  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, March 30, 2009 - U.S. paratroopers work daily with Iraqi counterparts to ensure Baghdad highways are safe.
03/30/2009 : Soldiers, Afghan Police Work Together Outside Bagram Airfield  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 30, 2009 - Bagram Airfield is a safer place thanks to the teamwork of soldiers of the 101st Airborne and the Afghan National Police.
03/30/2009 : American Contractors Discuss Time in Captivity      
WASHINGTON, March 30, 2009 - One of three American contractors who survived five and a half years in a Colombian jungle likened their captivity to being on the “planet of the apes.”
03/30/2009 : VA Secretary Opens Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic  This story contains photos.    
SNOWMASS VILLAGE, Colo., March 30, 2009 - Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki praised and encouraged the more than 400 participants as he opened the 23rd annual National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic at Snowmass Village, Colo.
03/29/2009 : 'Flourishing' Democracy in Afghanistan Remains Long-term Goal, Gates Says      
WASHINGTON, March 29, 2009 - The United States’ short-term goal for Afghanistan may have been refined, but the long-term goal has stayed the same, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said.
03/29/2009 : New Afghan-Pakistan Strategy Refocuses Military Efforts, Obama Says      
WASHINGTON, March 29, 2009 - President Barack Obama said his strategy for what he calls “America’s war” is intended to focus on the heart of the matter in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
03/27/2009 : Mullen Praises Regional Approach of Afghan-Pakistan Strategy Review      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - A great strength of the Afghanistan-Pakistan policy review President Barack Obama unveiled today is its regional approach, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
03/27/2009 : New Strategy ‘Refocuses’ Mission in Afghanistan, Flournoy Says  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - The Afghanistan-Pakistan policy review President Barack Obama unveiled refocuses the U.S. mission, the Pentagon’s top policy official said.
03/27/2009 : North Korean Satellite Launch May Violate U.N. Rule, Mullen Says      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said a possible North Korean satellite launch could violate United Nations sanctions against nuclear testing by the government in Pyongyang.
03/27/2009 : Trainers ‘Critical’ to Obama’s New Afghan-Pakistan Plan, Mullen Says      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - The pending deployment of U.S. military trainers to Afghanistan to instruct Afghan soldiers and police is a key component of President Barack Obama’s Afghan-Pakistan strategy.
03/27/2009 : New Afghan Approach More Likely to Succeed, Gates Says      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - The president’s new strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan is more likely to succeed because it is a more comprehensive approach, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said.
03/27/2009 : New Afghan Program Supports Community-based Approach to Security      
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 27, 2009 - More than 240 Wardak province residents became the first to graduate from the new Afghan Public Protection Force program designed to enhance security.
03/27/2009 : Afghan-Pakistan Strategy Emphasizes Need for Counter-insurgency Fight      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - The Afghanistan-Pakistan interagency policy review stresses the need for the United States to step up the counter-insurgency fight, a Defense Department official said.
03/27/2009 : National Guardsmen Respond to States’ Weather Catastrophes  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - Hundreds of National Guard and U.S. Northern Command members are helping communities fight flooding, assist stranded motorists and deliver supplies in several states in the upper Midwest.
03/27/2009 : Afghan Soldier Reportedly Kills Two Coalition Servicemembers, Wounds One      
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 27, 2009 - An Afghan National Army soldier reportedly killed two coalition servicemembers and wounded one in northern Afghanistan, military officials reported.
03/27/2009 : Latest Ship Seizures Broaden Counter-Piracy Challenge      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - Two ship seizures in the Indian Ocean in recent days appear to indicate that pirates have broadened their focus beyond the heavily patrolled Gulf of Aden.
03/27/2009 : Iraqi Soldiers Learn Warrior Skills During ‘Sergeant’s Time’  This story contains photos.    
PATROL BASE HILLA, Iraq, March 27, 2009 - The Iraqi army’s 31st Brigade chose its best and brightest soldiers to attend the first “Sergeant’s Time” training hosted by U.S. soldiers.
03/27/2009 : Forces Kill 13 Militants, Destroy Weapons in Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed 13 militants, detained one suspected militant and seized weapons caches in operations in Afghanistan, military officials reported.
03/27/2009 : Veterans Affairs Honors Military Women of Past, Present  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - A civilian painter helped honor the women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion for their efforts during World War II, including moving 90,000 pieces of backlogged mail in three months.
03/27/2009 : Marines to Test New Expeditionary Vehicle in 2010      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - The Marine Corps’ first expeditionary fighting vehicles –- 17-passenger armored vehicles -- are slated to be delivered to the Marine Corps for testing in May 2010.
03/27/2009 : President Unveils Afghan-Pakistan Strategy Review      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - President Barack Obama outlined his administration’s Afghanistan-Pakistan policy review, calling for increased aid to both countries and a need for more civilian and international support.
03/27/2009 : Colorado Employers Eager to Hire, Support Army Reservists  This story contains photos.    
DENVER, March 27, 2009 - Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter Jr. and 11 Denver employers signed on to the Army Reserve Employer Partnership Initiative.
03/27/2009 : Growing Iraqi Navy Crucial for Economic, National Security      
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2009 - More than 80 percent of Iraq’s revenue comes from the sale of oil channeled through two platforms in the Persian Gulf, and defense of those resources is critical to Iraqi national security.
03/27/2009 : Face of Defense: Shooter Aims for 2012 Paralympics  This story contains photos.    
FORT BENNING, Ga., March 27, 2009 - Army Staff Sgt. Josh Olson never dreamed he would become an internationally ranked shooter.
03/26/2009 : Truckers Honor Fallen Brothers in Arms  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 26, 2009 - Richard Lyons and his wife Debbie Frederick have a new job they're proud to perform -- bringing honor and respect to the troops who never returned from the Vietnam War.
03/26/2009 : Vietnam Vet Unveils New Project to Honor the Fallen  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 26, 2009 - The founder of the Vietnam Memorial has unveiled a glimpse of his next project -- an education center near The Wall -- designed to honor the courage of those who served during America's longest war.
03/26/2009 : Guard Fights Floods in North Dakota, Three Other States      
ARLINGTON, Va. , March 26, 2009 - About 1,200 National Guard members are fighting against time to ready Fargo, North Dakota, for possible record-setting Red River water levels, while fellow Guardmen try to control the effects of flooding in three other northern states.
03/26/2009 : Multinational Program Assists African Maritime Security      
WASHINGTON, March 26, 2009 - A number of African nations are learning how to make their ports, waterways and offshore areas safer and more secure, thanks to a Navy-led, multinational maritime partnership program.
03/26/2009 : 10,000th MRAP En Route to Central Command      
CHARLESTON, S.C., March 26, 2009 - Military and civilian officials gathered March 23 to commemorate the 10,000th surface shipment of mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles, known as MRAPs, to the U.S. Central Command area of operations, which includes Iraq and Afghanistan.
03/26/2009 : Obama Pledges More Support for Returning Combat Veterans      
WASHINGTON, March 26, 2009 - President Barack Obama promised during an online town hall meeting to ensure returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan receive the benefits and support they deserve.
03/26/2009 : USO Metro Salutes Exceptional Troops, Volunteers  This story contains photos.    
ARLINGTON, Va., March 26, 2009 - The United Services Organizations honored members of the U.S. military and those who support them during an event that recognized selfless service and volunteerism.
03/26/2009 : Eikenberry Pledges to Work Toward Afghanistan’s Long-term Success      
WASHINGTON, March 26, 2009 - Army Lt. Gen. Karl Eikenberry, former top U.S. commander in Afghanistan, told a Senate committee today he'll assume the ambassadorship there with a clear recognition that success in both Afghanistan and Pakistan is vital to U.S. national security.
03/26/2009 : Coalition Mentors Afghan Army, Police on Jurisprudence      
WASHINGTON, March 26, 2009 - Coalition forces have placed an emphasis on the rule of law as they serve as mentors for the Afghan army’s military justice system, a senior officer involved with the effort said.
03/26/2009 : U.S., Iraqi Troops Deliver Aid to Baghdad Community  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, March 26, 2009 - Baghdad residents welcomed U.S. and Iraqi forces as they delivered much-needed medical supplies.
03/26/2009 : Airmen Demonstrate Unmanned Aircraft Not Merely 'Drones'  This story contains photos.    
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan, March 26, 2009 - Airmen who control unmanned aerial vehicles over Afghanistan want to make clear they are operating more than "drones" in a war zone.
03/26/2009 : Servicemembers Help to Restore Scout Program in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq, March 26, 2009 - A dedicated group of servicemembers is helping to restore the Scouting movement in Iraq, one child at a time.
03/26/2009 : Guard Soldiers, Airmen Use Familiar Barriers to Dam Rising Floodwaters  This story contains photos.    
FARGO, N.D., March 26, 2009 - National Guard members fighting floods in North Dakota are finding a common item they used in Iraq to shield against shrapnel -- Hesco barriers -- makes for effective dams.
03/26/2009 : Face of Defense: ‘Lady’ Sniffs Out Explosives in Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 26, 2009 - She's only 2 years old, but has saved scores of troops from deadly bomb attacks in Afghanistan, sniffing ahead in danger zones and signaling to her partner when trouble is near.
03/26/2009 : ‘Operation Purple’ Offers Summer Fun to Military Kids      
WASHINGTON, March 26, 2009 - The National Military Family Association will host more than 9,000 military children at “Operation Purple” youth camps across America this year.
03/25/2009 : U.S. Consulting Closely With NATO Allies on Afghan Strategy Review      
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - The United States has been in close consultation with NATO allies as it completes an evaluation of the strategy in Afghanistan, President Barack Obama said.
03/25/2009 : Navy Submariners Participate in Arctic Ocean Exercise  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - A group of Navy submariners are practicing wartime operations off the coast of northern Alaska as part of Ice Exercise 2009.
03/25/2009 : F-22A Crashes Near Edwards Air Force Base      
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - An Air Force F-22A Raptor fighter jet crashed about 35 miles northeast of Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.
03/25/2009 : Gates, Australian Prime Minister Focus on Afghan-Pakistan Issues      
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates hosted Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd at the Pentagon as the two discussed the mission in Afghanistan and the importance of Australia’s support there.
03/25/2009 : Obama Salutes Medal of Honor Recipients at Arlington National Cemetery  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - President Barack Obama made an unannounced visit to Arlington National Cemetery, surprising Medal of Honor recipients at a ceremony.
03/25/2009 : Russian Invasion of Georgia Shattered Old Assumptions, Prompts New Concerns      
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - The Russian invasion of Georgia last year, the first such attack since the Cold War ended, did more than debunk long-held assumptions about stability in the former Soviet bloc, a U.S. commander said.
03/25/2009 : China’s Military Capabilities Continue to Grow, Report Says      
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - Transformation of the Chinese military has gained speed, but U.S. officials hope to see China become more transparent about military and security affairs, according to a report to Congress.
03/25/2009 : Commanders Cite Top Security Concerns      
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - Three four-star officers from Europe and the Pacific shared their most pressing concerns during a House Armed Services Committee hearing.
03/25/2009 : National Guard Battles Winter Storms in Five States      
ARLINGTON, Va., March 25, 2009 - More than 1,200 National Guard members have been called up to help several states deal with an early spring storm and flooding.
03/25/2009 : Iraq Violence Continues to Ebb as Security Improves, General Says      
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - The amount of insurgent- and crime-related violence in Iraq continues to drop as security improves, a senior U.S. military officer said.
03/25/2009 : Police Arrest Taliban Commanders in Southern Afghanistan      
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 25, 2009 - Afghan National Police arrested two Taliban commanders and three other militants in southern Afghanistan’s Oruzgan province, military officials reported.
03/25/2009 : Chinook Makes First Overnight U.S. Ship Visit to Iraq  This story contains photos.    
UMM QASR, Iraq, March 25, 2009 - USS Chinook departed Umm Qasr, Iraq, marking the first overnight port visit to Iraq by a U.S. ship.
03/25/2009 : Servicemembers, Civilians Honored at Women’s History Month Event  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 25, 2009 - Ten servicemembers and civilians were honored as part of the Defense Department’s Women's History Month Observance and Awards Program.
03/25/2009 : Face of Defense: Washington Guard NCO Takes Leadership on the Road  This story contains photos.    
BALAD AIR BASE, Iraq, March 25, 2009 - For one Washington Army National Guard soldier, the leadership of a noncommissioned officer can be measured in the miles and missions his soldiers have logged since last October.
03/25/2009 : Army Corps of Engineers Opens Doors for Businesswomen in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, March 25, 2009 - The Gulf Region Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Iraq unveiled two initiatives that will expand Iraqi businesswomen’s ability to gain work with the division.
03/25/2009 : Iraqis Tear Down Wall, Reminder of Darker Days in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE BRASSFIELD-MORA, Iraq, March 25, 2009 - Scores of Samarra civilians joined provincial and community leaders at a concrete barrier removal ceremony -- a sign of improved security.
03/25/2009 : Disaster Preparedness Exercise Trains 500 Guardsmen in Puerto Rico      
PONCE, Puerto Rico, March 25, 2009 - The capabilities of more than 500 Guard members to react to disasters were put to the test during Vigiliant Guard 2009.
03/24/2009 : Obama Cites $40 Billion Savings in Defense Procurement Budget      
WASHINGTON, March 24, 2009 - Upwards of $40 billion dollars in savings could be realized by eliminating wasteful programs in the Pentagon’s procurement budget, President Barack Obama said during his nationally televised news conference.
03/24/2009 : Iraq ‘Diplomatic Surge’ Could Set Stage for State Department in Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 24, 2009 - With broad recognition that success in Afghanistan will require more than military might, the State Department is preparing for what’s expected to be an expanded role there after the U.S. Afghanistan strategy review.
03/24/2009 : Guard Fights Flooding in North Dakota      
FARGO, N.D., March 24, 2009 - The North Dakota National Guard has stepped up its flood-fighting efforts in the Red River Valley in North Dakota.
03/24/2009 : Commander Calls for Larger NATO Footprint in Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 24, 2009 - NATO’s top commander called for NATO nations to beef up their efforts in Afghanistan to support security and rebuilding efforts there.
03/24/2009 : Medical Officers Discuss Efforts to Identify, Treat Brain Injuries, Stress      
WASHINGTON, March 24, 2009 - Two Air Force medical officers, one of whom suffered a traumatic brain injury himself, highlighted military efforts to identify and assist troops with TBI and post-traumatic stress disorder.
03/24/2009 : Obama: Terrorist Threat ‘Not Going Away’      
WASHINGTON, March 24, 2009 - The threat of terrorist attacks from al-Qaida and their affiliates “is not a threat that’s going away,” President Barack Obama said at the White House. “We have to take it seriously.”
03/24/2009 : Army Program Builds ‘Strong Bonds’ Among Couples, Families  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 24, 2009 - Military couples participating in the Army's 'Strong Bonds' marriage retreat learn how to communicate better with each other -- even in a cacophony of noise and while walking through a foam-toy "minefield."
03/24/2009 : Preston Addresses Concerns, Outlines Goals to Soldiers in Iraq      
BAGHDAD, March 24, 2009 - Sergeant Major of the Army Kenneth O. Preston visited Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers March 22 during a battlefield tour in Iraq and discussed topics such as stop-loss, dwell time, and changing benefits.
03/24/2009 : Homeland Security Considers Using Guard Along U.S.-Mexico Border      
WASHINGTON, March 24, 2009 - The Department of Homeland Security is “still considering” the use of National Guard troops along the U.S.-Mexico border, along with several other initiatives, the DHS secretary said in a White House press briefing.
03/24/2009 : ‘Super Coaches’ to Assist Servicemembers with Psychological Problems      
WASHINGTON, March 24, 2009 - The Defense Department is launching a new program soon that’s designed to assist transitioning servicemembers in accessing help for mental health issues, a U.S. Public Health Service officer announced.
03/24/2009 : Southern Command Baseball Team Embarks on ‘Friendship Tour’ to Latin America      
MIAMI, March 24, 2009 - A baseball team representing U.S. Southern Command will begin a 25-day “friendship tour” to five Latin American nations to play in exhibition games and conduct free clinics for aspiring players.
03/24/2009 : Troops Prevent Attacks With Battlefield Forensics  This story contains photos.    
CAMP TROY, Iraq, March 24, 2009 - When an improvised explosive device is detected, most people run and take cover, but a team of servicemembers in Iraq heads straight to the site to start the crime-scene investigation.
03/24/2009 : Troops Slow Down Taliban Movement With Traffic Control Points  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 24, 2009 - U.S. and Afghan forces conducted a three-day traffic control operation to restrict Taliban movement and to reduce the number of bombs.
03/24/2009 : Coalition Teaches Crime Scene Techniques to Iraqi Police      
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq, March 24, 2009 - Coalition troops are training Iraqi police on all aspects of explosives investigations, moving them closer to self-sufficiency.
03/24/2009 : Face of Defense: Judge Exchanges Gavel for Gun to Serve in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq, March 24, 2009 - At 59, Army Reserve Lt. Col. Jeff Wallace is in Iraq on his first tour to "pay back" his country.
03/24/2009 : Resilience Training Can Reduce Effects of Trauma in Soldiers, Army Doctor Says      
WASHINGTON, March 24, 2009 - The Army can mitigate the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder by training solders to be more mentally resilient before combat, an Army doctor said.
03/23/2009 : North Dakota, Minnesota Guard Troops Respond to Red River Valley Flooding  This story contains photos.    
ARLINGTON, Va., March 23, 2009 - Almost 500 Army and Air National Guard troops from North Dakota and Minnesota are working to help stem the flow of floodwaters from the Red River near Fargo, N.D.
03/23/2009 : Innovative Brain Therapies Offer Hope to Injured Troops  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - A brain injury expert explained how therapies that have assisted comatose patients regain consciousness may be used on a greater scale to treat troops with traumatic brain injuries.
03/23/2009 : Missile Defense Requires New Focus, Vice Chairman Says      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - The future of missile defense requires a new way of thinking that will benefit the American taxpayer and help America stay ahead of foreign threats.
03/23/2009 : Afghans Must Be ‘Center of Gravity’ in U.S. Strategy for Afghanistan, Mullen Says      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - The U.S. strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan must “put the Afghan people at the center,” as the United States and coalition provide them the support they need to build their country.
03/23/2009 : Iraqis Maintain Pace of Progress in Basra      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - The Iraqi security forces are performing high-level and fast-paced operations in Basra, making progress in other areas possible.
03/23/2009 : Mullen: Iraq Drawdown, Stop-Loss Phaseout Will Relieve Stress on Force      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - The force drawdown in Iraq, even in light of increased troop strength in Afghanistan, will enable the military to build more dwell time into deployment cycles.
03/23/2009 : Three-Year Korea Tours Good for Servicemembers, Alliance, Commander Says      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - Being assigned to Korea soon will be the same as being assigned to Japan or Europe, as tour normalization begins.
03/23/2009 : Coalition, Afghan Forces Kill Six, Detain 14 in Afghanistan Operations      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - Coalition and Afghan forces have killed six enemy fighters and detained 14 others in operations in Afghanistan in recent days, military officials reported.
03/23/2009 : Mail Must be Addressed to Specific Servicemembers, Military Says      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - A recent increase in mail addressed to “Any Servicemember” has prompted the Military Postal Service Agency to remind the general public not to send mail or packages addressed that way.
03/23/2009 : Experts Plant Seeds to Foster Agricultural Success in Iraq      
FORWARD OPERATING WARRIOR, KIRKUK, Iraq, March 23, 2009 - The food that finds its way onto the tables of Iraqi residents has its origins somewhere, and Team Borlaug researchers are on a mission to see where that journey begins.
03/23/2009 : U.S., French Team Up to Offer Artillery Training to Afghan Soldiers      
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 23, 2009 - U.S. and French artillerymen recently teamed up to teach their Afghan counterparts how to operate American artillery weapons.
03/23/2009 : U.S. Government Seeks Justice in Iraqi Court      
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq, March 23, 2009 - U.S. Army officials filed a formal complaint March 11 in the Central Criminal Court of Iraq in an effort to bring 12 suspects to justice for their roles in an ambush near Yusifiyah, Iraq, two years ago.
03/23/2009 : Group Encourages Americans to Reach Out to Female Servicemembers      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - A New York-based troop support group is helping mark Women's History Month by sending support to deployed female troops.
03/23/2009 : Face of Defense: Combat Medic Strengthens Skills Under Rigors of War      
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 23, 2009 - Army Spc. Timothy Currie serves double-duty in Afghanistan as a warfighter and combat medic.
03/23/2009 : Afghanistan Mission Critical to Protecting United States, Obama Says      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - President Barack Obama called his decision to add 17,000 troops to Afghanistan the toughest so far in his presidency, but told CBS' "60 Minutes" that the mission there is critical to protecting the United States and its interests.
03/23/2009 : Iraqi Interior Ministry Reduces Corruption, Improves Rule of Law      
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2009 - New systems and procedures within the Iraqi Interior Ministry have decreased corruption and increased professionalism in several divisions, a Navy officer said.
03/20/2009 : Defense Department Officials List Stimulus Act Projects      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - Defense Department officials have released a list of 3,000 projects that the economic stimulus legislation will fund, including two new military hospitals and energy research.
03/20/2009 : U.S. Projects in Afghanistan Support Security, Stability Efforts      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - Myriad construction programs under way in Afghanistan are helping to improve security and provide a better future for the people of that war-torn country.
03/20/2009 : Quintets From Army Band, Russian Orchestra Perform Royal Music  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - A group of leading diplomats, military officials and scholars were treated to a joint performance by brass quintets from the U.S. Army Band and the Russian National Orchestra.
03/20/2009 : Pay Incentives Help Military Avoid Nursing Shortage      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - The Army, Navy and Air Force nurse corps are highly trained, capable and critical to the wartime mission of each service.
03/20/2009 : Golf Clinic Trains Instructors to Work With Wounded Servicemembers  This story contains photos.    
ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 20, 2009 - The National Amputee Golf Association’s First Swing program is helping military golf instructors learn how to work with wounded warriors and encouraging wounded warriors to get back into the swing of an active lifestyle.
03/20/2009 : Face of Defense: NCO Teaches Bistro Cooking in Barracks  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - Army Sgt. Edmund Perez, from Fort Sam Houston, Texas, is bringing his talents to a new TV cooking series, “Microwave 101,” on The Pentagon Channel.
03/20/2009 : Army and Air Force Exchange Service Asks Shoppers to Make a Scene      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - Aspiring filmmakers in the military community have the chance to flex their creative muscle and play a part in the “It’s My Benefit 2” video contest.
03/20/2009 : On the Ground: Soldiers Work to Solidify Security Gains  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - U.S. soldiers serving in Multinational Division Baghdad continue to help their Iraqi partners work toward solidifying security gains in and around the Iraqi capital.
03/20/2009 : Afghan, Coalition Forces Kill 36 Militants, Detain Suspects      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed 36 enemy fighters and detained eight suspects in operations in Afghanistan, military officials reported.
03/20/2009 : Forces Uncover Weapons Stockpiles in Baghdad, Southern Iraq      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - Iraqi soldiers and police, along with U.S. soldiers, seized numerous enemy stockpiles in Baghdad and in southern Iraq, military officials reported.
03/20/2009 : Army Reserve Employer Partnership Unfazed by Flagging Economy      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - More and more employers sign on every month for a program that helps them hire qualified reservists, despite gloomy hiring predictions.
03/20/2009 : Influx of U.S. Troops in Afghanistan to be Met With Rising Violence      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - The number of attacks in Afghanistan is likely to rise with the influx of additional U.S. forces there, an International Security Assistance Force commander said during a Pentagon briefing.
03/20/2009 : Brain Awareness Week Launched at Museum of Health and Medicine      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - Hundreds of middle school students have passed through the halls of the National Museum of Health and Medicine at Walter Reed Army Medical Center as part of a Brain Awareness Week effort to educate them about anatomy and military medical history.
03/20/2009 : Special Operations Troops Deliver Smiles to Bagram Children  This story contains photos.    
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 20, 2009 - Special operations troops in Afghanistan delivered gifts from Americans to Afghans that some say are as important as their combat missions.
03/20/2009 : U.S. Navy Ship, Sub Collide in Middle East’s Hormuz Strait      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - Fifteen sailors suffered minor injuries when a U.S. Navy submarine and U.S. amphibious ship collided in the Strait of Hormuz, Navy officials said.
03/20/2009 : Center for Women Veterans Hosts ‘Lioness’ Documentary Screening      
WASHINGTON, March 20, 2009 - In April 2004, at the height of the insurgency in Iraq, five female soldiers unwittingly found themselves fighting alongside Marines in the battle for Ramadi and Fallujah. A documentary called "Team Lioness" tells their story.
03/19/2009 : Obama Drops Proposal to Bill Insurance for Vets’ Combat Injuries      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - President Barack Obama has dropped a proposal to bill veterans’ private health insurance for combat-related injuries, the White House press secretary said.
03/19/2009 : Stimulus Package to Fund New Hospital at Fort Hood      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - The federal economic stimulus package will provide $621 million to build a new military hospital at Fort Hood, Texas, President Barack Obama said.
03/19/2009 : Navy Stabilizes Force as it Nears End-strength Goal, Admiral Says      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - After years of downsizing, the U.S. Navy has nearly achieved its end-strength goal of 329,000 sailors.
03/19/2009 : U.S. Commander for Korea Calls Alliance Lynchpin for Stability      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - Almost 56 years past the armistice that ended the fighting on the Korean peninsula, the U.S.-South Korea alliance has turned into a lynchpin for stability in Northeast Asia, the commander of U.S. Forces Korea told the Senate Armed Services Committee.
03/19/2009 : On the Ground: U.S. Efforts Improve Detainee Care, Security in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - U.S. forces in Iraq have put an emphasis on training in recent days, providing training in a wide range of operations that include detainee processing, mortar systems and the use of military working dogs.
03/19/2009 : Deterrence Still Key to National Security, General Says      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - Deterrence remains as central to America’s national security as it was during the Cold War, U.S. Strategic Command’s top officer said.
03/19/2009 : Thrift Savings Plan Provides Retirement Nest Eggs      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - About 614,000 servicemembers are saving for retirement in the federal Thrift Savings Program, which was opened to military members in 2002.
03/19/2009 : More Work Needed in Military Relationship With China, Admiral Says      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - The United States has made “some real headway” in improving relations with China, but “the relationship isn’t where we want it to be,” the top officer at U.S. Pacific Command told senators.
03/19/2009 : Combat Veteran Provides Insight at Guard Bureau Women’s History Event  This story contains photos.    
ARLINGTON, Va., March 19, 2009 - Each woman serving in the military has broken barriers, so now there are fewer to overcome, said Army Maj. Tammy Duckworth, who is an Iraq war veteran, helicopter pilot, and double amputee. “In that cockpit, it didn’t matter if I was male or female; it only mattered that I supported the mission,” she said.
03/19/2009 : Mission Develops African Partners in Maritime Safety, Security      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - Improving the maritime capabilities of West and Central African navies is just one of the key focus areas for the ongoing Africa Partnership Station.
03/19/2009 : Troops’ Platelet Donations Save Lives in Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 19, 2009 - Servicemembers at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, may not be on the front lines, but their life-saving actions still make them heroes.
03/19/2009 : On the Ground: U.S. Troops Help to Build Road, Security in Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - U.S. forces are paving the way for a better quality of life in Afghanistan, including showing Afghan soldiers machine gun techniques.
03/19/2009 : Six Years Into Operation Iraqi Freedom, Prospects Improve for Iraqi People      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - Prospects for the Iraqi people “get better every day,” with the Iraqis now solving their problems “politically, and not with guns,” Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said as Operation Iraqi Freedom marks its sixth anniversary.
03/19/2009 : Medical Infrastructure Affects Readiness, Pentagon’s Top Doctor Says      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - The more than 1,000 major facilities that make up the Defense Department’s medical infrastructure are key strategic national assets, the department’s top medical official told Congress.
03/19/2009 : Troop Support Group Helps Vets, Military Families Find Jobs      
WASHINGTON, March 19, 2009 - Military veterans and spouses in the New Jersey area are getting help finding jobs from a troop support group.
03/19/2009 : Face of Defense: Staff Sergeant Leads ‘Rock Stars’ in Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 19, 2009 - Army Staff Sgt. Henry Baez Jr. is humble about the recognition he’s received for leading soldiers through dangerous work in Afghanistan.
03/18/2009 : Armed Services Field Programs to Combat Servicemember Suicides      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - One servicemember suicide “is too many,” and each military service now has programs designed to combat the problem, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told reporters at a Pentagon news conference.
03/18/2009 : Families’ Wishes Will Drive New Media Guidelines at Dover, Gates Says      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - The wishes of the families will be the overriding principle guiding any media coverage of fallen warriors’ remains arriving at Dover Air Force Base, Del., Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said.
03/18/2009 : On the Ground: Iraqis Take Lead in Operations, Humanitarian Missions  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - Aided by U.S. forces, Iraqis are making vast strides toward sovereignty as they assume responsibility for everything from public works operations to joint security stations.
03/18/2009 : Gates Approves Plan to End Army’s Involuntary Extensions      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - The Army will phase out use of the so-called “stop-loss” policy that allows the involuntary extension of servicemembers’ active duty past the scheduled end of their term of service, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said.
03/18/2009 : Africom Commander Describes Conditions for U.S. Involvement      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - U.S. Africa Command will intervene in conflicts on the continent only after warring countries have shown a political will to reconcile, the Africom commander said.
03/18/2009 : Sesame Workshop Reaches Out to Military Families      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - Sesame Workshop continues to find unique and creative ways to reach out to the very youngest in military families, Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III said during a sneak preview of a new primetime Sesame program.
03/18/2009 : Gates Recommends New Terms, Positions for Senior Officers      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced his recommendations that President Barack Obama re-nominate Navy Adm. Mike Mullen and Marine Gen. James E. Cartwright as the chairman and vice chairman, respectively, of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for a second two-year term.
03/18/2009 : Military Must Develop Irregular Warfare Capability, Commander Says      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - The U.S. military must continue to develop its capability to wage irregular warfare for the foreseeable future, the chief of U.S. Joint Forces Command told the House Armed Services Committee.
03/18/2009 : Iraq Uses Foreign Military Sales to Rebuild, Strengthen Security Forces      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - The Iraqi government is using the Defense Department’s Foreign Military Sales program to rebuild and strengthen Iraqi security forces.
03/18/2009 : Commentary: Airline Experience Begs Question, ‘Who Are America’s Heroes?’      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - The challenge issued by a flight attendant during a recent commercial air flight seemed innocuous enough: “Name just one of the five Medal of Honor recipients from the current engagements in Afghanistan or Iraq, and get a free drink coupon.”
03/18/2009 : ‘Baghdad Bad Boys’ Strike Final Chord  This story contains photos.    
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq, March 18, 2009 - The Baghdad Bad Boys, a musical group composed of soldiers, performed together for the last time at Camp Victory, Iraq, before heading home.
03/18/2009 : Education, Personal Contact Key to Cutting Suicide Rate, Army Leader Says      
ARLINGTON, Va., March 18, 2009 - Soldiers need to move a little closer into each other's personal space after deployments to help prevent problems that may lead to suicide, the Army's deputy chief of staff for personnel said.
03/18/2009 : Prospective Recruit Shows Respect Through Winning Artwork  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - A high school student and prospective Marine Corps recruit from Lewisville, Texas, has turned his respect and admiration for servicemembers into award-winning art.
03/18/2009 : Afghanistan War ‘Absolutely Winnable,’ Top Commander Says      
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - The operation in Afghanistan “is absolutely winnable and will be won,” the top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan said on PBS’s “Jim Lehrer Newshour.”
03/18/2009 : Face of Defense: Guard Pilot Hopes to Share Female Pioneer Role  This story contains photos.    
CAMP STRIKER, Iraq, March 18, 2009 - U.S. Army Maj. Michele P. Harper became a pioneer of the sky when she graduated from flight school in Fort Rucker, Ala., 16 years ago.
03/17/2009 : Defense Department Releases Sexual Assault Statistics      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - The Defense Department has released a congressional report that examines sexual assault allegations in the military services and sets policies for reducing incidents.
03/17/2009 : ‘Enormous Progress’ Made in Iraq, But More Work Remains, Official Says      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - Much progress has been achieved in Iraq, but there’s still work to be done because the gains are "still fragile" in some areas.
03/17/2009 : Iranian Influence, Terrorist Links, Threaten Latin American Security      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - Iran is increasing its presence in Latin America, and Hezbollah, a terrorist organization it sponsors, is making inroads in drug trafficking in Colombia, the commander of U.S. Southern Command told Congress.
03/17/2009 : On the Ground: Troops Aid Afghans With Security, Supplies  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - As the Afghan people work to develop their infrastructure, U.S. forces are offering their assistance on a number of fronts.
03/17/2009 : Military Speeds Up Help to Mexico, Explores Boosting Border Presence      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - The United States is working to speed up delivery of equipment and training to help Mexico to better confront violent drug cartels, the commander of U.S. Northern Command said.
03/17/2009 : Stratcom Prepares for Future Capabilities, General Says      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - The global financial crisis and the threat of nuclear proliferation and persistent warfare in the Middle East and Central Asia are playing a major role in determining future national security capabilities, the commander of U.S. Strategic Command told Congress.
03/17/2009 : Gates Pays Respects to Fallen Servicemembers at Dover      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates traveled to Dover Air Force Base, Del., to pay his respects to four servicemembers killed recently in Afghanistan.
03/17/2009 : U.S. Africom Promotes Stability, Security on Continent      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - The nascent U.S. Africa Command is promoting stability and security on the continent through military-to-military activities and a host of other programs, the Africom commander said.
03/17/2009 : Northcom Remains Vigilant Against Threats, Commander Says      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - The continuing terrorist threat against the U.S. homeland “is real,” the commander of U.S. Northern Command told the Senate Armed Services as he outlined an aggressive defense program aimed at preventing another Sept. 11-type attack.
03/17/2009 : Tankers Top Shopping List, Transportation Commander Says      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - Acquiring a new fleet of Air Force tankers is imperative, the commander of U.S. Transportation Command told the Senate Armed Services Committee.
03/17/2009 : Progress Made in Southcom Region, Challenges Remain, Admiral Says      
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - The top U.S. military officer for Latin America and the Caribbean reported positive developments in the region over the past year.
03/17/2009 : Coalition, Afghan Forces Kill Seven in Bomb-making Bust      
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 17, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed seven Taliban militants and detained three others during operations to disrupt a bomb-making cell in Afghanistan’s Kandahar province.
03/17/2009 : On the Ground: Troops in Iraq Keep Humanitarian Efforts at Forefront  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 17, 2009 - Though U.S. forces in Iraq have focused on building the nation’s self-sufficiency, they have not lost sight of the need for humanitarian aid.
03/17/2009 : Paratroopers Deliver Colorado Boy’s Toys to Iraqi Children  This story contains photos.    
BELADIYAT, Iraq, March 17, 2009 - A month after a Colorado boy collected his toys and sent them to Iraq, a group of U.S. Army paratroopers distributed the items to children in an eastern Baghdad neighborhood.
03/17/2009 : International Women’s Day Event Empowers Iraqi Women  This story contains photos.    
CAMP ECHO, Iraq, March 17, 2009 - A large crowd of Iraqi girls and women, ranging from teenagers to grandmothers, gathered at a youth center in Diwaniya, Iraq, for a graduation ceremony and to mark International Women’s Day.
03/17/2009 : Face of Defense: Former Teacher Answers Call to Serve  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, March 17, 2009 - Army Spc. Eileen Flynn seemed like an unlikely recruit for the military. Once a teacher with two degrees, she now loves jumping out of an airplane.
03/16/2009 : Caring for Veterans Is Matter of American Honor, Obama Says      
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - Caring for veterans is a responsibility and duty for all Americans, and the employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs are those who are charged with repaying “that debt of honor,” President Barack Obama said.
03/16/2009 : Civil Affairs Troops Make Progress on Streets of Iraq  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - As security continues to improve in Iraq, civil affairs units and provincial reconstruction teams become more effective.
03/16/2009 : Military Child Care Takes Top Quality Spots in National Report      
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - The Defense Department’s stateside military child care system took first place in the categories of quality oversight and standards for a second time as part of a national child care advocacy group’s report
03/16/2009 : U.S. Engineers Help Iraq, Afghanistan Self-govern      
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - Military engineers have made great strides in improving infrastructure and governance capabilities in Iraq and Afghanistan.
03/16/2009 : On the Ground: U.S. Training Efforts Build Self-sufficiency in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - U.S. forces in Iraq are equipping Iraqis with the skills they need to assume a greater role in their nation’s security.
03/16/2009 : New Pentagon Civilian Personnel System Faces Review      
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - The Defense Department will undertake a comprehensive review of the National Security Personnel System to ascertain whether it is fair and transparent to participating employees.
03/16/2009 : Coalition Jets Shoot Down Iranian Drone Over Iraq      
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - Coalition jet fighters shot down an Iranian drone that was hovering over Iraq late last month, Multinational Force Iraq officials confirmed.
03/16/2009 : Engineers Move Ahead of Infantry to Clear Roadside Bombs  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 16, 2009 - The engineers of the 10th Mountain Division's Alpha Company, 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, detect roadside bombs to ensure safe passage for infantry units.
03/16/2009 : Iraqi, Coalition Detain Terrorists, Destroy Explosives in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - Coalition and Iraqi forces arrested two suspected terrorists, seized weapons and destroyed thousands of pounds of explosives in operations in Iraq.
03/16/2009 : Moving Troops to Iraq’s Rural Areas Will Boost Security, General Says      
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - As U.S. forces move from Iraq’s urban areas, they’ll be better positioned to target insurgents where they operate.
03/16/2009 : Coalition, Afghan Forces Kill 11 Militants in Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed 11 militants, detained suspected militants, and netted drugs and weapons in operations in Afghanistan.
03/16/2009 : Gates to Remain in Washington During NATO Summit      
WASHINGTON, March 16, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates will remain in Washington to tend to Defense Department budget issues during the NATO Summit in Europe.
03/16/2009 : Reunion Training Helps Soldiers, Families Reconnect      
FORT BRAGG, N.C., March 16, 2009 - Spouses of soldiers in the 18th Airborne Corps have a better idea of how to reconnect with their other halves upon redeployment, thanks to the Army’s Battlemind reunion training.
03/16/2009 : Face of Defense: Airman Sheds 115 Pounds to Work on F-22s  This story contains photos.    
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska, March 16, 2009 - Air Force Airman Derrick Bell found a lot of determination and a little support from friends helped him meet a hefty goal: lose more than 115 pounds so he could return to military service.
03/13/2009 : On the Ground: U.S. Forces Perform Dual Role in Securing, Developing Iraq  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - U.S. forces in Iraq increasingly are working on civil affairs projects to develop the country, while continuing to provide security so that progress can happen throughout, military officials report.
03/13/2009 : Security in Afghanistan Sets Conditions for Future, Mullen Says  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - Providing security for Afghan people until they can provide their own will help set the conditions needed to move the country forward, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said during a Public Broadcasting Service interview.
03/13/2009 : Young Leaders Tour Pentagon During ‘Washington Week’      
WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - American high school students from around the world toured the Pentagon as part of a weeklong visit to the nation’s capital.
03/13/2009 : Military Teens Try Their Hand at Policy Making      
WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - A foreign exchange program, drivers' education and help with airfare to visit their overseas family topped the wish list for a group of military teens who presented ideas for policy changes at the U.S. European Command Quality of Life Conference.
03/13/2009 : U.S. Keeping Close Eye on Pakistan, Chairman Says      
WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - U.S. officials are keeping a close watch on the current unrest in Pakistan, a country that is key to NATO’s efforts in Afghanistan, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
03/13/2009 : Documentary Opening Today Depicts Commitment, Sacrifice of Soldiers, Families      
WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - The documentary film, "Brothers at War", which opens this weekend in select locations, gives viewers insight into the commitment of military members and their families -- and gave the filmmaker a better understanding of his own brothers who wear the uniform.
03/13/2009 : Education Reduces Stigma Facing Redeployed Soldiers      
SCHWEINFURT, Germany, March 13, 2009 - The social stigma against mental health treatment is like a deadly toxin that must be eliminated through education programs, a top Defense Department mental health expert said.
03/13/2009 : First Lady Brings Military Family Issues to Front Burner      
WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - First lady Michelle Obama, having just returned from meeting with military families at Fort Bragg, N.C., reiterated on ABC-TV’s “Good Morning America” her commitment to ensuring they get the support they deserve.
03/13/2009 : U.S., Iraqi Leaders Aim to Restore Iraq’s Historic Sites  This story contains photos.    
CAMP STRIKER, Iraq, March 13, 2009 - U.S. forces and Iraqi officials are working together to restore ancient monuments in Iraq.
03/13/2009 : Face of Defense: Sudanese Emigrants Become U.S. Citizens Together  This story contains photos.    
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq, March 13, 2009 - Two soldiers, once on opposite sides of Sudan's civil war, stood together to become U.S. citizens during their deployment in Iraq.
03/13/2009 : Deployed Troops to Receive Sweet Treat Overseas  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - Deployed servicemembers in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo and Kuwait will not miss out on Girl Scout cookies this year, thanks to the troop-support group “Hugs for Our Soldiers.”
03/13/2009 : Air Guard Engineers Prepare for Involuntary Deployment      
ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md., March 13, 2009 - Air National Guard civil engineer squadrons comprising hundreds of construction and repair experts will involuntary deploy overseas in historic numbers and scope over the next two years, senior Air Guard officials said.
03/13/2009 : First Lady Visits Fort Bragg, Vows Support for Military Families  This story contains photos.    
FORT BRAGG, N.C., March 13, 2009 - In her first solo trip as first lady, Michelle Obama visited one of the U.S. military’s busiest communities and stressed the importance of reaching out to support soldiers and their families.
03/13/2009 : Enlisted Leader Praises Guard Members in Combat Zones  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - The National Guard's noncommissioned officers should be proud of the leadership they provide in the nation's combat zones, the National Guard Bureau's senior enlisted leader said.
03/12/2009 : First Lady Stresses Support for Military Families During Fort Bragg Visit  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - In her first solo trip as first lady, Michelle Obama visited one of the U.S. military’s busiest communities and stressed the importance of reaching out to support soldiers and their families.
03/12/2009 : Former Hostages Honored With Defense of Freedom Medal  This story contains photos.    
MIAMI, March 12, 2009 - Three U.S. defense contractors held captive for more than five years by Colombian narcoterrorists received the civilian equivalent of the Purple Heart during a military ceremony.
03/12/2009 : Obama Nominates Hill, Eikenberry for Posts      
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - President Barack Obama has nominated Christopher R. Hill as ambassador to Iraq and Army Lt. Gen. Karl W. Eikenberry to serve as U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan.
03/12/2009 : Obama Calls on Leaders to Develop Ideas to Confront New Threats      
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - President Barack Obama used the dedication of a hall on one of the nation’s oldest military installations to talk about the new threats confronting America.
03/12/2009 : Petraeus Praises Medics, Corpsmen at ‘Angels of Battlefield’ Gala  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - The commander of U.S. Central Command praised the Army medics and Navy corpsmen whose courage on the battlefield protects the lives of fellow servicemembers.
03/12/2009 : Iraq Experience Likely to Affect Future Decisions, Gates Says      
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said the Iraq war experience likely will make future presidents more cautious about authorizing a pre-emptive strike based on intelligence.
03/12/2009 : Public Affairs Chief Takes Stock of Tumultuous Year  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - Information is a critical element of national power, and public affairs personnel have a role in how the government and military employ that element, the outgoing principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs said.
03/12/2009 : Obama Considers Deploying National Guard to U.S.-Mexico Border      
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - President Barack Obama considers deploying National Guard troops to the U.S.-Mexico border to control escalating violence.
03/12/2009 : U.S. Team Helps to Plant Seeds for Afghan Farmers’ Success  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 12, 2009 - A National Guard unit from Nebraska has deployed to Afghanistan to assist and educate farmers on better farming techniques.
03/12/2009 : Iraqi, U.S. Forces Capture Bomb Makers, Seize Weapons in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - Iraqi forces, with coalition support, captured a man wanted for bomb attacks and nine others, dismantled two makeshift bombs, and seized weapons caches in Iraq.
03/12/2009 : Afghan Women Celebrate Culture, Achievements at Women’s Day Event  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 12, 2009 - More than 100 Afghan women and girls celebrated their accomplishments during an International Women’s Day event in Panjshir province.
03/12/2009 : Gates Describes Operational, Managerial Challenges, Strides Made      
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - The war in Afghanistan poses the biggest challenge to the Defense Department, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said, but he expressed confidence that Iraq “is in a better place” than two years ago.
03/12/2009 : Command Takes on Support Role to Aid Iraq      
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq is assuming more of a support and advisory role as Iraq moves toward self-sufficiency.
03/12/2009 : Mullen Discusses World Issues with Tomorrow’s Leaders      
WASHINGTON, March 12, 2009 - In the midst of working through today’s global issues, leaders should not forget to foster tomorrow’s generation to carry on their efforts, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
03/12/2009 : First Lady to Visit Military Families at Fort Bragg      
FORT BRAGG, N.C., March 12, 2009 - First lady Michelle Obama will meet with military families and several organizations that support them during a visit to Fort Bragg, N.C.
03/12/2009 : Partnership Mission Shows U.S. Commitment to Africa, Commander Says      
NAPLES, Italy, March 12, 2009 - The USS Robert G. Bradley has completed the first Africa Partnership Station mission to East Africa, signifying the U.S. commitment to helping African nations achieve stability and prosperity.
03/12/2009 : Face of Defense: Soldier Sees Vast Changes in Iraq      
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq, March 12, 2009 - A 44-year-old soldier is serving in Iraq for the second time, an experience he says is considerably different from his first.
03/12/2009 : School Renovation Produces Gift for Budding Artists  This story contains photos.    
MUSTANSIRYA, Iraq, March 12, 2009 - Local leaders, Iraqi security forces and coalition paratroopers celebrated a school renovation focusing on an art facility in eastern Baghdad.
03/12/2009 : U.S. Military Makes Last Payment to ‘Sons of Iraq’      
FORWARD OPERATING BASE WARRIOR, Iraq, March 12, 2009 - The U.S. military has made its last payment to “Sons of Iraq” civilian security group members in Kirkuk province’s city of Sudayra.
03/11/2009 : Remembrance Ceremony Honors Fallen Military Medics  This story contains photos.    
ARLINGTON, Va., March 11, 2009 - More than 100 friends, relatives and military members turned out at Arlington National Cemetery to pay homage to fallen military medical personnel.
03/11/2009 : On the Ground: Coalition Forces Meet to Move Iraq Forward      
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2009 - U.S. forces in Iraq increasingly fill their days with something not thought of as a traditional military role: taking part in meetings.
03/11/2009 : Defense Decisions to be Subject to ‘Hard Scrutiny’ During Budget Process      
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2009 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates will await the results of a thorough review process before making decisions about major defense systems, keeping U.S. security interests at the forefront.
03/11/2009 : U.S. Supports Afghan-Taliban Reconciliation, With Caveats      
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2009 - The United States “is fully supportive” of the Afghan government’s attempts to reconcile with Taliban members, as long as the Taliban accept the will of the people who elected that government.
03/11/2009 : Discussions Aim to Resolve U.S. Survey Ship Incident      
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2009 - The harassment of the USS Impeccable is serious enough to merit face-to-face discussions between U.S. and Chinese officials.
03/11/2009 : GAO Report Recommends Changes to Afghan Police Program      
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2009 - An effective, honest police force is vital to security progress in Afghanistan.
03/11/2009 : Military Looks to Dispel Myths, Advance Treatment for Brain Injuries      
SCHWEINFURT, Germany, March 11, 2009 - "Get a good night's sleep" is advice professionals offer as part of a program for redeploying soldiers who might have suffered traumatic brain injuries.
03/11/2009 : Afghan, Coalition Forces Detain 19 Bomb Makers      
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 11, 2009 - Afghan commandos, aided by coalition forces, detained 19 suspected bomb makers in eastern Afghanistan.
03/11/2009 : Face of Defense: Army Chaplains Help to Build Faith, Chapel in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE HUNTER, Iraq, March 11, 2009 - Two Army chaplains are building much more than the faith of their soldiers on a remote base near the southeastern border of Iraq.
03/11/2009 : New School to Offer Modern-day Facilities Blended With Tradition      
BASRA, Iraq, March 11, 2009 - Iraqi children soon will benefit from a traditional-style school built partially out of reeds to reflect their marsh Arab culture in Rota village.
03/11/2009 : Iraq Takes ‘Huge Strides’ Toward Independence, Coalition General Says      
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2009 - Building a nation takes time, and progress shouldn’t be measured through Western standards, a senior coalition commander said.
03/11/2009 : Resource Center to Provide Training, Education for Afghan Women  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 11, 2009 - The provincial reconstruction team in Nangarhar province joined local leaders to break ground on a women’s resource center.
03/11/2009 : Gates: U.S. Won’t Allow Taliban Resurgence in Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2009 - The United States won’t let the Taliban threaten the Afghan government and re-establish safe havens in Afghanistan.
03/11/2009 : ‘Wheel Depot’ Rolls Out First Rebuilt Humvee      
TAJI, Iraq, March 11, 2009 - The first M1114 Humvee to be completely rebuilt at the National Maintenance Depot in Taji, Iraq, has rolled out of the facility.
03/11/2009 : Medical Center Uses Innovative Methods to Improve Patient Safety  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2009 - Health care practitioners at the largest Air Force medical center on the West Coast are using state-of-the-art, interactive human patient simulators to improve medical care.
03/11/2009 : Budget Would Transform VA to 21st-century Organization, Shinseki Says      
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2009 - President Barack Obama’s fiscal 2010 budget proposal is necessary to transform the Department of Veterans Affairs into the 21st century organization he envisions.
03/10/2009 : U.S. Will Continue to Sail in International Waters, Official Says      
WASHINGTON, March 10, 2009 - Despite recent harassment incidents, the United States will continue to sail ships on missions in international waters, a Defense Department official said.
03/10/2009 : Status of First Gulf War Casualty Changed to ‘Missing in Action’  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 10, 2009 - Calling Navy Capt. Michael “Scott” Speicher “an American hero,” Navy Secretary Donald C. Winter announced his decision to change the status of the first Operation Desert Storm casualty from "missing/captured" to "missing in action.”
03/10/2009 : On the Ground: U.S. Forces in Iraq Provide Police Station, Water, Power  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 10, 2009 - U.S. forces are providing the building blocks of a bright future with the opening of a new police station and upgrades to public water and electricity.
03/10/2009 : All-Female Marine Team Conducts First Mission in Southern Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
FARAH PROVINCE, Afghanistan, March 10, 2009 - An all-female Marine team is interacting with Afghan women -- a task culturally off-limits for male Marines.
03/10/2009 : Reconciliation With Taliban Worth Trying, Biden Says      
WASHINGTON, March 10, 2009 - Though reconciliation with the Taliban is worth exploring, decisions in that regard should be left to Afghanistan’s people and government, Vice President Joe Biden said.
03/10/2009 : Afghan, U.S. Forces Capture Bombing Suspects, Seize Taliban Supplies      
WASHINGTON, March 10, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces captured 10 suspects during operations to degrade terrorist networks in eastern Afghanistan.
03/10/2009 : Task Group Reviews Education Activity’s Literacy Programs      
WASHINGTON, March 10, 2009 - The Department of Defense Education Activity has suspended the use of the Reading Recovery program in its European schools for the school year that begins in the fall.
03/10/2009 : U.S., Iraqi Soldiers Detain Suspect, Seize Explosives      
WASHINGTON, March 10, 2009 - U.S. and Iraqi soldiers detained a criminal suspect and seized a large cache of illegal explosives in northwestern Baghdad
03/10/2009 : Biden Consults NATO Allies on Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 10, 2009 - NATO is not winning the war in Afghanistan, but it is far from lost, Vice President Joe Biden said in Brussels, Belgium.
03/10/2009 : February Statistics Show Solid Recruiting, Retention Success      
WASHINGTON, March 10, 2009 - Defense Department officials announced across-the-board recruiting and retention successes in February, with every service meeting or exceeding its goals.
03/10/2009 : U.S. Team Examines Ways to Boost Care at Iraqi Hospital  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELTA, Iraq, March 10, 2009 - Iraqi doctors from the Karama Hospital in Kut, Iraq, discussed surgery procedures, techniques and some health care challenges they face with members of the 848th Forward Surgical Team.
03/10/2009 : Soldiers Train Iraqi Police in Air Assault  This story contains photos.    
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq, March 10, 2009 - Iraqi police officers jumped out of UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters as they received air-assault training from U.S. soldiers on Camp Cedar, Iraq.
03/10/2009 : Coast Guard Trains Partner Nations in Exercise Tradewinds  This story contains photos.    
NASSAU, Bahamas, March 10, 2009 - Coast Guardsmen trained troops from partner nations in boarding procedures in Tradewinds 2009, a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored exercise to increase maritime security.
03/10/2009 : Face of Defense: Alaska Army National Guard Soldier Takes on Iditarod  This story contains photos.    
CAMP DENALI, Alaska, March 10, 2009 - An Alaska Army National Guardsman cited as a "real contender" is running in the grueling 2009 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race under way in Alaska.
03/09/2009 : Army Reserve Iraq Role to Continue Despite Afghanistan Mission, General Says      
WASHINGTON, March 9, 2009 - As the Army Reserve prepares to deploy more troops to Afghanistan, its top officer said he anticipates no near-term decrease in the need for reservists in Iraq.
03/09/2009 : Chinese Vessels Shadow, Harass Unarmed U.S. Survey Ship      
WASHINGTON, March 9, 2009 - Five Chinese vessels aggressively maneuvered close to the USNS Impeccable in the South China Sea.
03/09/2009 : Clearing the Tangi: Task Force in Afghanistan Takes Troubled Valley  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE AIRBORNE, Afghanistan, March 9, 2009 - Coalition forces along Logar River are sending a forceful message to insurgent fighters that the coalition will go wherever it wants.
03/09/2009 : Leaders Begin Troop Withdrawal in Iraq, General Says      
WASHINGTON, March 9, 2009 - Military leaders have begun working to achieve President Barack Obama’s goal of withdrawing U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of 2010.
03/09/2009 : On the Ground: Troops in Iraq Focus on Schools  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 9, 2009 - U.S. forces in Iraq increasingly are putting down weapons to build schools, giving some of Diwaniya's brighest female students new opportunities.
03/09/2009 : U.S. to Contribute ‘Adequate Force’ for Iraq Election Security, General Says      
WASHINGTON, March 9, 2009 - The United States must provide adequate security forces to ensure Iraq’s national elections proceed as smoothly as recent provincial elections.
03/09/2009 : Chairman, President Discuss U.S. Support to Mexico      
WASHINGTON, March 9, 2009 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and President Barack Obama have been discussing the situation in Mexico and the military capabilities that could assist the country.
03/09/2009 : Historic Events Indicate Progress in Iraq, General Says      
WASHINGTON, March 9, 2009 - With provincial elections in Iraq complete and the U.S.-Iraq security agreement in place, the way ahead in Iraq continues to be more clearly defined.
03/09/2009 : Afghan Soldiers Train to Save Lives  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 9, 2009 - U.S. Army soldiers are equipping Afghan soldiers with the skills they need to save lives.
03/09/2009 : Former Hostages to Receive Defense of Freedom Medal      
WASHINGTON, March 9, 2009 - Three U.S. defense contractors held captive for years by Colombian narcoterrorists will receive the civilian equivalent of the Purple Heart award.
03/09/2009 : New Purification System Brings Water, Hope to Samarra      
FORWARD OPERATING BASE BRASSFIELD-MORA, Iraq, March 9, 2009 - The Iraqi government has completed installation of a new water purification system on the Rassassi Canal, bringing clean drinking water and optimism.
03/09/2009 : Navy, Coast Guard Ships Participate in Exercise Aman      
MANAMA, Bahrain, March 9, 2009 - U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell left Karachi, Pakistan, after a four-day port visit to participate in the international naval exercise Aman 2009, marking the first time a U.S. ship has pulled into Pakistan since May.
03/09/2009 : U.S. Soldiers Give Gift of Tractors to Iraqi Farmers  This story contains photos.    
COMBAT OUTPOST MEADE, Iraq, March 9, 2009 - Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers gave 14 new tractors to sheiks from the Lutifiyah Nahia area.
03/09/2009 : Face of Defense: Airman Contributes to Nuclear Airlift Mission  This story contains photos.    
McCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash., March 9, 2009 - Air Force Tech. Sgt. Nicholas Thompson has a job that leaves no room for error: helping to protect the nation's nuclear arsenal.
03/08/2009 : Afghan, Coalition Forces Kill 16 Enemy Fighters      
WASHINGTON, March 8, 2009 - U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan killed 16 enemy fighters in several operations.
03/08/2009 : Iraqi, U.S. Troops Find Weapons Cache      
DIYALA, Iraq, March 8, 2009 - U.S. and Iraqi soldiers uncovered a weapons cache in Iraq’s Diyala province.
03/08/2009 : Military Officials in Iraq Announce Force Reduction      
BAGHDAD, March 8, 2009 - Two Army brigades leaving Iraq in the next six months due to drawdown won’t be replaced.
03/07/2009 : Mullen Praises Military Cooperation Between Mexico, U.S.  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 7, 2009 - The combined capabilities and military cooperation between Mexico and the United States can defeat the drug cartels that plague both countries, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said in Mexico City.
03/07/2009 : Mullen Visits Bit of America in Heart of Mexico  This story contains photos.    
MEXICO CITY, March 7, 2009 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff took time from a busy schedule of meetings with Mexican military and naval leaders to visit the Mexico City National Cemetery, where 1,563 Americans are buried.
03/06/2009 : Technology, Threats Accelerate Army Focus on Ground Electronic Warfare      
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - Portable electronic devices such as iPods and cell phones have provided U.S. adversaries in Iraq and Afghanistan with lethal capabilities
03/06/2009 : Army Creates Suicide Prevention Task Force During ‘Stand Down’      
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - The Army has created a suicide prevention task force as part of its month-long “stand-down” to address suicides among soldiers.
03/06/2009 : Pentagon Plans Sexual Assault Prevention Campaign      
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - Just as the armed forces paved the way for integration decades ago, the Defense Department hopes to prevent sexual assault in the military and throughout the nation.
03/06/2009 : Securing Afghanistan-Pakistan Border is High Priority, Officer Says      
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - A key strategy of enemy efforts in Afghanistan seems to entail taking advantage of the porous border region between that country and Pakistan.
03/06/2009 : U.S. Maintains Commitment to South Korean Security, Commander Says      
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - The United States will provide South Korea missile defense against a “very real threat” from North Korea as the South Koreans boost their own ballistic defense capabilities.
03/06/2009 : U.N. Command, North Korean Officers Meet to Reduce Tensions in Korea      
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - General officers from the United Nations Command called North Korean assertions that its army could not guarantee the safety of commercial aircraft flying near North Korean airspace “entirely inappropriate.”
03/06/2009 : U.S., NATO Have ‘Unity of Purpose’ in Afghan Mission, Clinton Says  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - U.S. and NATO allies showed “unity of purpose” during discussions about their shared mission in Afghanistan, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said.
03/06/2009 : Defense Travel System Expands, Earns Greater Customer Approval      
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - The Defense Travel System has expanded its reach and gained ground in customer satisfaction.
03/06/2009 : Afghanistan Fight Turns to Economy, Governance  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE AIRBORNE, Afghanistan, March 6, 2009 - The 10th Mountain Division troops are helping legitimize the provincial government and pumping much-needed money into the economy.
03/06/2009 : U.S. Commander Decries ‘Barbaric’ Enemy Actions in Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - Insurgents in Afghanistan employ intimidation and barbaric acts in attempts to cow Afghan civilians to submit to their will, a U.S. military officer said.
03/06/2009 : Face of Defense: Iraq Deployment Brings Brothers Closer  This story contains photos.    
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq, March 6, 2009 - Iraq seems a lot closer to home for two brothers from New York who are lucky enough to be in Iraq at the same time -- and actually see each other every week.
03/06/2009 : Under U.S. Eye, Iraqis Blend Intelligence With Rule of Law      
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - Iraq’s internal intelligence community is making the transition from wartime to peacetime operations.
03/06/2009 : U.S., Canadian Defense Leaders Meet in Washington, Discuss Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 6, 2009 - As the Obama administration continues reviewing its Afghanistan strategy, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and Canadian Defense Minister Peter MacKay met in Washington to discuss the allies’ commitments in the NATO effort.
03/05/2009 : Lessons of Colombia Can Be Applied Elsewhere, Mullen Says      
BOGOTA, Colombia, March 5, 2009 - Colombia's ongoing struggle against narcoterrorists holds lessons for nations around the world, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
03/05/2009 : Pentagon Spokesman Addresses Afghanistan, Mexico, Other Key Issues      
WASHINGTON, March 5, 2009 - Gratitude toward Canada, policies in Afghanistan, North Korea and Mexico, and the federal budget all were discussed at a Pentagon news conference.
03/05/2009 : Hospital Ship Prepares for Humanitarian Assistance Mission  This story contains photos.    
BALTIMORE, March 5, 2009 - The USNS Comfort is preparing to leave next month for a four-month humanitarian mission through Latin America and the Caribbean.
03/05/2009 : Defense Leaders to Congress: Piracy Begins On Land      
WASHINGTON, March 5, 2009 - The root cause of maritime piracy resides on land, and halting it requires an international solution, the Defense Department’s head of African Affairs said.
03/05/2009 : Overweight Youth Pose Recruitment Challenges      
WASHINGTON, March 5, 2009 - The obesity trend that is putting many Americans' health at risk also is taking a toll on recruiting, Pentagon officials say.
03/05/2009 : Afghan Security Forces Shoulder More Responsibility      
WASHINGTON, March 5, 2009 - The Afghan National Army continues to improve as it assumes more security responsibility, the U.S. commander in charge of the training effort said.
03/05/2009 : Prescription Crosscheck Program Helps Tricare Beneficiaries      
WASHINGTON, March 5, 2009 - The Tricare military health plan is ensuring patient safety for its 9.2 million beneficiaries through a revolutionary drug utilization program.
03/05/2009 : NATO Commander Notes ‘Warming of Relations’ Between Pakistan, Afghanistan      
MONS, Belgium, March 5, 2009 - NATO’s top military officer noted improving relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and he expressed the hope for continued progress.
03/05/2009 : Coalition, Afghans Kill One, Detain Four Taliban Bomb Suspects      
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 5, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed one militant and detained four others during operations to disrupt the Taliban and Haqqani terrorist group networks in Afghanistan’s Kandahar and Khowst provinces.
03/05/2009 : Most Soldiers With Brain Injury Heal, Medical Official Says      
WASHINGTON, March 5, 2009 - More than 90 percent of servicemembers with traumatic brain injury have concussions and recover quickly, the director of the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury said.
03/05/2009 : Iraqi, U.S. Soldiers Work Together Toward Future  This story contains photos.    
COMBAT OUTPOST AL-GHARRAF, Iraq, March 5, 2009 - Combat Outpost al-Gharraf, formerly named Joint Security Station Jenkins, signifies the transition from coalition to Iraqi control.
03/05/2009 : Soldiers Train Afghan Army for Mission Readiness  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 5, 2009 - Soldiers deployed in Afghanistan are improving the Afghan National Army’s ability to respond to enemy activities through various joint training exercises at Combat Outpost Pegasus.
03/05/2009 : Face of Defense: Amputee Soldier Completes Jumpmaster Course  This story contains photos.    
FORT BRAGG, N.C., March 5, 2009 - Injured by a roadside bomb, Army Sgt. 1st Class John “Mike” Fairfax is the first amputee soldier to complete the Army’s Jumpmaster Course.
03/05/2009 : Tradewinds Exercise Begins in Bahamas      
NASSAU, Bahamas, March 5, 2009 - More than 400 U.S. servicemembers, as well as security forces and officials from the Caribbean nation and British Royal Marines, were on hand for the opening ceremonies of the 25th annual Tradewinds exercise.
03/04/2009 : Chairman Drops in on Navy Medical Research Lab in Peru      
LIMA, Peru, March 4, 2009 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff visited a Navy medical research unit that is working with Peruvian military and civilian leaders and agencies to benefit the country, the region and the globe.
03/04/2009 : Troops Earn U.S. Citizenship in Iraq  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, March 4, 2009 - More than 250 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines from 65 countries became American citizens.
03/04/2009 : Videos Capture U.S. Missions, Afghan Life      
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2009 - Fred Baker III, an American Forces Press Service reporter, is traveling in eastern Afghanistan. View his latest video reports on the U.S. mission in Afghanistan.
03/04/2009 : Face of Defense: Lieutenant Realizes Dream of Becoming U.S. Citizen  This story contains photos.    
VICTORY BASE COMPLEX, Iraq, March 4, 2009 - Along with 250 other servicemembers, Army 2nd Lt. Memorina Edwin Barnes recited the Oath of U.S. Citizenship in Iraq and fulfilled her dream of becoming an American citizen.
03/04/2009 : Guard, Northcom Relationship So Good It’s Boring, Renuart Says  This story contains photos.    
BALTIMORE, March 4, 2009 - The commander of U.S. Northern Command described the relationship between Northcom and the National Guard as "boring" because they work so well together.
03/04/2009 : Despite Economic Uncertainties, Coast Guard Looks to Modernize      
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2009 - The Coast Guard is used to being in high demand, overworked and underequipped, but efforts to modernize during economic uncertainty is the real challenge.
03/04/2009 : On the Ground: Troops Provide Health, Business Opportunities to Iraqis  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2009 - U.S. forces in Iraq are contributing to the health and welfare of Iraqis through events such as medical outreaches and business and job fairs.
03/04/2009 : Obama Pledges to Ensure Security While Reforming Defense Contracting      
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2009 - President Barack Obama pledged to ensure the security of the American people while trimming fat from the Defense Department budget and reforming government contracting.
03/04/2009 : Army, Air Guard at Full Strength, Directors Tell Congress  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2009 - The Army National Guard is over strength and the Air National Guard has met its target end strength for the first time since 2002. “This is a new era for us,” said Army Lt. Gen. Clyde A. Vaughn.
03/04/2009 : Air Force Reserve Unit Strives to Support Family Members      
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2009 - An Air Force reserve unit in Massachusetts does its utmost to support family members of deployed troops.
03/04/2009 : VFW to Sponsor Eight Veterans in Golf Classic      
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2009 - The Veterans of Foreign Wars will sponsor eight Purple Heart recipients in the Annual Veterans Golf Classic.
03/04/2009 : Foundation Gives Spouses Chance to Become Financial Counselors      
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2009 - The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority is helping military spouses become accredited as financial counselors.
03/04/2009 : Chairman Connects with Latin American Friends      
LIMA, Peru, March 4, 2009 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said one reason he's visiting Peru is to reinforce America's commitment to strong relationships among the nations of the Western Hemisphere.
03/04/2009 : Infantry Battalion Forms Bonds With Local Afghans      
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan , March 4, 2009 - Task Force Spartan soldiers with the 10th Mountain Division’s 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, have been working closely with residents and security forces in Afghanistan’s Vardak province.
03/04/2009 : Latin American Engagement Requires New Thinking, Mullen Says      
LIMA, Peru, March 4, 2009 - U.S. military-to-military engagement in Latin America will require a change in thinking and in the culture within the armed services, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
03/04/2009 : Three Injured in Suicide Attack at Bagram Airfield      
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 4, 2009 - Three contractors suffered minor injuries in a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attack near Bagram Airfield, Combined Joint Task Force 101 officials said.
03/04/2009 : Budget to Reflect Key Defense Priorities, OMB Director Says      
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2009 - The 2010 defense budget being finalized by the Obama administration will maintain priorities such as quality-of-life improvements and acquisition reform as it caps other defense spending, the Office of Management and Budget director said.
03/04/2009 : Mullen Stresses Value of Joint Warfighting      
SANTIAGO, Chile, March 4, 2009 - As Chile works toward building a joint force, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shared insights from U.S. history and emphasized the importance of the process to students from the Chilean War College.
03/03/2009 : U.S. Committed to European Missile Defense, Gates Says      
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - If Iranian missile programs would cease production, the United States would not need more missile defense capabilities in Eastern Europe, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said.
03/03/2009 : First Lady Advocates for Military Women, Families in Predecessor’s Mold  This story contains photos.    
ARLINGTON, Va., March 3, 2009 - First lady Michelle Obama received a tip from a retired female Air Force general: Keep modeling herself after her World War II-era predecessor, Eleanor Roosevelt.
03/03/2009 : Afghan President’s Call for Early Elections Tied to Legitimate Concern, Gates Says      
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai’s sudden call to move up the country’s elections from late summer to early spring may be in response to a concern regarding the legitimacy of his office after his term ends.
03/03/2009 : U.S., Britain Share Common Goals in Afghanistan, Obama Says      
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - As the United States reviews its Afghanistan strategy, President Barack Obama said he’s confident Great Britain will remain its strongest partner in putting that strategy into effect.
03/03/2009 : Gates Cites Goals, Measuring Success as Key in Afghanistan      
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - Determining a timetable for withdrawing U.S. and NATO forces from Afghanistan right now is “impossible,” Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said.
03/03/2009 : Family Support Program Helps Navy Reserve ‘Seabees’ Perform Missions      
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - Camaraderie and caring are among the reasons why Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 24 was honored by the Defense Department.
03/03/2009 : Guard Needs Full Spectrum of Capabilities, General Says  This story contains photos.    
BALTIMORE, March 3, 2009 - Living up to the National Guard’s motto of “Always Ready, Always There” requires a full spectrum of capabilities, a senior National Guard official said at the Domestic Operations Conference.
03/03/2009 : Mullen Seeks to Strengthen U.S. Military Ties to Latin America      
SANTIAGO, Chile, March 3, 2009 - The “umbrella crisis” in the financial world is complicating an already complicated world, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff told students at the Chilean War College.
03/03/2009 : Task Force Seeks Impressions of Response From Sexual Assault Victims      
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - The Defense Task Force on Sexual Assault in the Military Services wants to talk to sexual assault victims about their experience with the military’s response to the incident.
03/03/2009 : Officials Urge Congress to Protect Recruiting, Retention Incentives      
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - Recognizing the likelihood of defense budget cuts, senior defense and military leaders urged Congress to protect incentives they call critical to recruiting and retention.
03/03/2009 : Coalition, Afghans Find Goodwill at Traditional Afghan Games  This story contains photos.    
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 3, 2009 - As U.S. forces and their NATO counterparts were thinking about ways to win the trust and cooperation of local people, village elders suggested a sporting competition.
03/03/2009 : U.S., Iraqi Forces Seize Weapons, Dismantle Bomb      
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - U.S. and Iraqi forces deterred several potentially deadly incidents by confiscating two large weapons caches and dismantling a homemade bomb, military officials reported.
03/03/2009 : West African Drug Trade Concerns U.S. Officials  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - West Africa has seen an “absolutely shocking” increase in drug trafficking, U.S. Africa Command's top civilian said.
03/03/2009 : Soldiers Stay Active, Use Army Programs to Fight Stress  This story contains photos.    
BAGHDAD, March 3, 2009 - Soldiers serving their third deployment find keeping active helps them deal with the stress of being away from home.
03/03/2009 : Team Provides Medical Care to Afghan Students, Villagers  This story contains photos.    
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 3, 2009 - A provincial reconstruction team treated more than 120 people during a medical mission.
03/03/2009 : On the Ground: U.S. Forces Help Iraqis Establish Rule of Law  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - U.S. forces in Iraq are contributing to a new system of law and order there, equipping police stations with the latest investigatory equipment and building courthouses.
03/03/2009 : Face of Defense: Soldier Teaches Other Soldiers  This story contains photos.    
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq, March 3, 2009 - One Army officer spends his off-duty time teaching criminal justice and military science courses to soldiers.
03/03/2009 : ‘Christmas in May’ Awaits Deployed Troops      
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - Troops serving overseas will get a little bit of “Christmas in May,” thanks to a troop-support group that is collecting gifts and snacks to be mailed to them on Armed Forces Day, May 16.
03/03/2009 : Chairman Tours Brazilian Amazon Command      
IPIRANGA, Brazil, March 3, 2009 - The Brazilian defense minister showed Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, an unusual, but informative, time during a visit with units of the Amazonia Military Command in Brazil.
03/03/2009 : Mullen Notes Importance of U.S. Relationship With Brazil      
MANAUS, Brazil, March 3, 2009 - In his first visit to Brazil, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff met with top leaders and emphasized the importance of military-to-military cooperation as part of the overall U.S.-Brazilian relationship.
03/02/2009 : Coast Guard Rescues Missing Boater, Continues Search for Three Others      
WASHINGTON, March 2, 2009 - The Coast Guard rescued a boater whose vessel capsized in the Gulf of Mexico, and continues to search for two National Football League players and a third man.
03/02/2009 : On the Ground: Soldiers in Iraq Open Senior Center, Orphanage, Schools  This story contains photos.    
WASHINGTON, March 2, 2009 - U.S. soldiers are making a difference in the lives of Iraqis, following building renovations and the opening of a senior center, school and orphanage.
03/02/2009 : Gates: U.S. Military Could Help Mexico Fight Drug Cartels      
WASHINGTON, March 2, 2009 - The United States could increase its military support to help Mexico fight drug cartels that pose an increasingly alarming security risk, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said.
03/02/2009 : U.N., North Korea Hold Rare Talks      
WASHINGTON, March 2, 2009 - Officials from the North Korean army and the United Nations Command held their first talks in nearly seven years inside the Demilitarized Zone.
03/02/2009 : Guard Ends New Orleans Mission, Focuses on Wildfires, Snow      
WASHINGTON, March 2, 2009 - As the Louisiana National Guard wrapped up its “precedent-setting” law enforcement mission in New Orleans, the Texas National Guard dispatched helicopters to combat wildfires torching Central Texas.
03/02/2009 : Officials Announce Upcoming Iraq, Afghanistan Deployments      
WASHINGTON, March 2, 2009 - Defense Department officials announced replacement units scheduled for 12-month deployments later this year to Iraq and Afghanistan.
03/02/2009 : Environmentally Engineered Landfill in Kirkuk is First for Iraq  This story contains photos.    
KIRKUK, Iraq, March 2, 2009 - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is part of a joint, multinational effort to provide solutions for city officials on what to do with the 900 tons of trash residents in Kirkuk, Iraq, generate daily.
03/02/2009 : Iraqis Get Electronic Countermeasure System      
BESMAYA COMBAT TRAINING CENTER, Iraq, March 2, 2009 - Iraqi army field engineer regiments are training with an electronic countermeasure system designed to prevent remote triggering of roadside bombs.
03/02/2009 : Coalition Troops Care for Afghan People      
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 2, 2009 - The hope for a healthier life is growing stronger in Afghanistan’s Oruzgan province, thanks to the care of health care workers from around the world.
03/02/2009 : Human Terrain Teams Build Friendships, Future      
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 2, 2009 - "Human terrain teams" are becoming a large building block for victory in Afghanistan.
03/02/2009 : Reporter’s Notebook: Eatin’ Good in Afghanistan  This story contains photos.    
FORWARD OPERATING BASE GARDEZ, Afghanistan, March 2, 2009 - A reporter is impressed with the food offerings at a dining facility nicknamed "Olive Gardez" at a forward operating base in Afghanistan.
03/01/2009 : Combined Forces Discover Weapons, IEDs in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, March 1, 2009 - Iraqi security forces and Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers discovered a munitions cache during a patrol northwest of Baghdad.
03/01/2009 : Coalition Forces Kill Militants in Afghanistan, Seize Caches      
WASHINGTON, March 1, 2009 - Coalition forces engaged several militants, killing four, while conducting operations in the Maywand district of Afghanistan about 50 miles northwest of Kandahar.
03/01/2009 : Secretary Addresses Pakistan, Afghanistan, Other Key Issues      
WASHINGTON, March 1, 2009 - As the United States reviews its Afghanistan strategy, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said he’s gratified by Pakistan’s growing recognition of the importance of eliminating extremist safe havens along the country's border.
03/01/2009 : Gates: Plans on Track for New Transition Force Role in Iraq      
WASHINGTON, March 1, 2009 - The U.S. military will conduct “a very different mission” in Iraq after combat troops withdraw in August 2010, with troops slated to remain there through 2011 serving primarily as trainers and advisors, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
03/01/2009 : Mullen Voices Support for Iraq Decision      
WASHINGTON, March 1, 2009 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said the president’s decision to redeploy American troops from Iraq is the responsible one.
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