Hickam Airman Supports Special Forces in Philippines

Captain Darrick B. Lee, Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines, Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines -- As U.S. Forces continue their drawdown from Iraq, the military is continuing to support counter-terrorism efforts elsewhere around the globe. While Afghanistan remains the more widely-known theater of operations, there are other places where Airmen serve.

One such place is Zamboanga, located in the southern Philippines. Although the United States history in the Philippines dates back to more than a century, the emergence of terrorist groups in the southern part of the country placed renewed emphasis on the region since 2001. A lot has changed since General John “Blackjack” Pershing served as governor-general here at the turn of the century. Still, the U.S. military presence, while temporary, is a fixture in Zamboanga.

Nestled in Camp Navarro, home of the Philippine military’s Western Mindanao Command, is U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines. JSOTF-P is comprised of special operations forces from all four services, including U.S. Army Green Berets, Navy S.E.A.L.s, Marine Special Operations Forces and Air Force Commandos.  Supported by a small staff, JSOTF-P’s mission is focused on providing advice to the Philippine military and assisting them in their fight against terrorism. They are currently focused on pursuing the Abu Sayyaff Group (ASG) and Jemiah Islamiah (JI), two terrorist groups operating in the islands of Mindanao, Basilan and Sulu.

This is not an easy task in a country comprised of more than 7000 islands. Absent here are Hummers and mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles, as military airlift takes center stage. To ensure SOF are able to move freely in the area, JSOTF-P maintains a small fleet of PC-12 and C-12 fixed-wing aircraft, complemented by Bell 214 helicopters for use in the jungle areas where U.S. and Philippine forces are collocated.

JSOTF-P relies on their Joint Special Operations Air Detachment (JSOAD) to fly and maintain the aircraft. JSOAD operates much like Airmen do at any other flight line, scheduling flights and ensuring the safety of air operations that support Special Forces. The unit shares the airfield with Zamboanga International Airport, which doubles as Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB), owned by the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant Carrie Volpe, a weather forecaster deployed with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines, remotely monitors the status of a TMQ-53 weather sensor 30 Nov. Through her computer, Volpe can provide real-time weather forecasting in support of special operations in the southern Philippines. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Matthew P. Troyer/released)

Sharing a runway means sharing the responsibility for flight safety. U.S. Airmen are embedded with the PAF, living and working near the flight line. Shouldering the responsibility for U.S. weather reporting and forecasting is Technical Sergeant Carrie Volpe, JSOAD’s weather forecaster.

TSgt. Volpe’s home station is Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, HI, where she serves as a forecast supervisor for 20 U.S. military bases in Korea and Japan. There, Volpe performed the same job she performs in JSOAD; she provides detailed weather reports to help mission planners conduct safe flying and ground operations.

In Hawaii, equipped with the latest meteorological tools at the 17th Operational Weather Squadron, her biggest hurdle was simply keeping up with the workload. With multiple airfield forecasts and weather warnings across a 113 million square-mile area of responsibility, the need for up-to-date weather reporting is constant.

When Volpe arrived at Zamboanga in September, she found a similar need. However, as guests of a host-nation airport, with limited meteorological equipment and a separate operating schedule, providing timely and accurate weather forecasts became a challenge.

“We used to receive periodic weather observations from EAAB,” said Volpe, who is originally from Epsom, NH.  “But sometimes, when EAAB reports weren’t available, or their schedule didn’t synchronize up with our operations, we had to give pilots the weather based on our best estimate.”

That’s what she used to do.

When an Air Force Special Operations Command Safety Team paid a visit to the JSOTF-P in October, Volpe saw it as a chance to let the brass know how to improve air operations in the southern Philippines. She recommended the purchase of a weather sensor, capable of providing electronic forecasts and sharing it with aviators world-wide. Not only would the sensor help the U.S. forces operating out of Zamboanga, but it could assist the Philippine Air Force and all aviators who need to know about local weather.

AFSOC liked the idea. However, the Air Force has an almost never-ending list of good ideas … Many of them remain unfunded. With the cost of an average weather sensor running more than $150,000, the current financial picture cast a shadow over the prospect of adding one to Volpe’s office.

Volpe’s boss, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Doug Carroll, in response to AFSOC’s safety assessment, searched for solutions. Carroll serves as the JSOAD Commander, but at his home station, he leads the 353 Special Operations Support Squadron at Kadena Air Base, Japan.

“I knew the 353 SOSS had the equipment and capability,” said Carroll. “With approval from Special Operations Command Pacific, the 353rd was able to rapidly deploy the sensor to the Philippines.”

Shortly after Carroll’s call, a brand new TMQ-53 Automated Observation System (TMOS) weather sensor arrived, escorted by MSgt. Scott Williams, the 353rd weather flight’s NCO in charge. Shortly after he landed, the sensor was installed and working.

To Volpe, whose primary concern is providing the most accurate forecasts to pilots about to fly into austere conditions, it was the perfect gift, just in time for the holidays.

“The TMOS gives us a credible source of weather information,” explained Sgt. Volpe when describing the sensor. “We can generate our own weather observations, and we can do it independently.”

A recently-installed TMQ-53 sensor collects weather data from the top of a building at Edwin Andrews Air Base, Philippines. U.S. Air Force Airmen support flight operations in the southern Philippines by sharing the runway in Zamboanga, and providing weather forecasts in support of U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew P. Troyer/released)

The TMOS collects data on current wind conditions, cloud heights, lightning, temperature, precipitation and more. In a joint special operations environment, where weather can have a severe impact on success, Volpe is pleased to have a little help.

The Philippine Air Force will be able to use the new sensor as they pursue the ASG and JI. Whether it’s a combat resupply mission, a request for close-air support, or a casualty evacuation, their operations will benefit from having the real-time forecasting Volpe provides.

“It feels good to know that I can confidently tell pilots and aircrew what to expect prior to take-off,” Volpe added. “I hope it helps build their trust in our support to them.”

U.S. Government employees with a CAC-enabled computer can view current weather conditions in Zamboanga by surfing to https://afweather.afwa.af.mil/weather/met/met_home.html .

Filipino, U.S. troops upgrade local library

By U.S. Air Force Capt. Darrick B. Lee

Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines Public Affairs

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines (Sept. 27, 2011) –  Members of the Philippine Air Force gave a boost to the Edwin Andrews Air Base Elementary School reading program Sept. 27 with the installation of new bookshelves and the arrival of books donated from U.S. forces.

The Philippine Air Force’s 530th Air Base Wing worked with members of U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines (JSOTF-P) to fill the school’s library with new books.

A sample of books donated from around the world rest on shelves built by the Philippine Air Force’s 530th Air Base Wing at Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga. Engineers from the wing’s Civil-Military Operations Squadron built the bookcases for the students, with help from U.S. Navy Seabees assigned to JSOTF-P. (Official U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Darrick B. Lee.)    U.S. Air Force Capt. Kirsten Gipper, a member of the JSOTF-P, was one of the organizers of the book collection.

“We’ve done civil-military operations with the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) before, but it’s usually in someplace more remote,” said Gipper, who works at the elementary school (EAAB) with the Philippine forces.

“We figured since we live at EAAB, we should try to find a way to do something for the kids here,” she added. “We talked to the PAF and they told us about the school’s needs. Then we began collecting book donations.”

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Kathleen Garcia, a medical logistician with Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines, reads to students of Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga Sept. 27. Members of JSOTF-P helped the Philippine Air Force upgrade the school’s library by providing lumber for new bookcases and filling them with an international donation of new books. (Official U.S. Air Force Photo by Captain Darrick B. Lee)

Gipper and a friend, U.S. Army 1st Lt. Erica Anders, a flight nurse with JSOTF-P, created a personal Facebook page to solicit donations. Shortly afterward, books began flowing in from all over the world.

Some of the books came from as far away as the United States; others came from places in the Pacific, such as Japan.  According to Gipper, many people ordered them online and had them shipped to the volunteers directly.

A variety of titles arrived, ranging from picture books for kindergartners to more advanced storybooks for intermediate readers.

 

U.S. Air Force Capt. Kirsten Gipper, a member of the Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines Liaison Control Element, reads to students of Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga Sept. 27. Gipper is one of several volunteers who helped the Philippine Air Force upgrade the school’s library by collecting and donating books for children. (Official U.S. Air Force Photo by Captain Darrick B. Lee)

As the book collection grew, the school realized it needed more space to display them. Engineers from the 530th Air Base Wing’s civil-military operations squadron at EAAB built new bookcases for the library. U.S. Navy Seabees donated lumber to help the engineers make the bookshelves.

The volunteers joined Mrs. Victoria Mangeser, the school’s principal, in an informal ceremony to present the new books to the students. Mangeser then invited Anders and other volunteers to read to some of the children.

When the children were asked to choose which book should be read, the majority of the students yelled “Dora” after seeing a storybook bearing a picture of the popular television character. According to the school, many local libraries need books that promote leisure reading, instead of traditional schoolbooks. With more than 500 students at the school, the donations were well-received.

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Erica Anders, a flight nurse with Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines, reads to students of Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga Sept. 27. Members of JSOTF-P helped the Philippine Air Force upgrade the school’s library by providing lumber for new bookcases and filling them with an international donation of new books. (Official U.S. Air Force Photo by Captain Darrick B. Lee)

“We are so blessed to receive these books and new shelves,” said Principal Mangeser. “Usually, the private school libraries are regarded as the best. But, these books are unique because they are not just reference titles. They are books that make reading fun … So, now the EAAB library is the best in Zamboanga!”

U.S. Special Forces, Philippine Service members honor the fallen during 9/11 observance

ZAMBOANGA CITY- Members of Joint Special Operations Task Force -Philippines held a ceremony Sunday, observing the 10th anniversary of the events of 11 September 2001.

Members of the Philippine Security Forces joined U.S. Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen in recalling the events that were instrumental in the creation of Operation Enduring Freedom.

“Ten years ago, our nation and the Western democratic way of life was attacked, blood was shed, nations mobilized, battle lines drawn and our lives were changed forever,” said U.S. Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Shane McKenzie during the opening of the ceremony.

Master Chief McKenzie and the JSOTF-P Chaplain, U.S. Army Maj. David Lile, recalled the events as they occurred 10 years ago today.

“ Eight forty-six and twenty-six seconds: Flight 11 crashes at roughly 466 miles per hour into the north face of One World Trade Center, between floors 93 and 99,” read Chaplain Lile.

After the recollection of events, JSOTF-P members shared personal testimonies.

“Ten years ago, I was in high school and we were watching the events unfold on TV,” recalled one U.S. service member. “My Aunt was in the World Trade Center, that day … She was taken away.”

People from many nations lost their lives that day. JSOTF-P leaders said the ceremony not only honors the fallen, but is a reminder to those who currently serve.

“September 11^th was the worst of days, and we remember those fallen on that day, those who served on that day and every day since then,” said U.S. Army Colonel Fran Beaudette, JSOTF-P Commander. “Today is the best of days. We get to do what we do … To continue our nation’s bidding, and continue to help our partners who are focused on the cause of freedom.”

U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines was established in 2002 to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines in their fight against trans-national terrorism in the southern Philippines. 

AFP Awards Civic Action Medal to JSOTF-P Servicemembers

  ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) honored 15 servicemembers from the U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) with the Philippine Military Civic Action Medal (CAM) at an awards ceremony held at Camp Navarro, Zamboanga City, Aug. 19.

The award highlights the combined training and humanitarian projects conducted by JSOTF-P members through partnership with the AFP. 
According to the citation, these projects improve the lives of countless Filipinos, helping to reduce support for lawless groups and their safe havens in the southern Philippines. Col. Casiano C. Monilla Jr., Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Chief of Unified Command Staff, presented JSOTF-P’s servicemembers with the award for their contributions made to the Republic of the Philippines.

             “We really appreciate the presence of the U.S. forces here and the assistance you have given us,” Monilla said.

Since January 2011, JSOTF-P has participated in various humanitarian and civil assistance programs, making four visits to the Talon-Talon Orphanage and three to the Women's and Children's shelter.  Members have also raised over $1,400 USD for outreach programs and have donated over 1,000 pounds of clothing. WESTMINCOM recognized them as having earned honor not only for themselves, but for the AFP as well. 

The awardees were also recognized for their dedication and hard work for assisting, training and advising units under WESTMINCOM that ultimately improved the capabilities of Filipino Soldiers and increased their chances of survival in combat. 

 “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to be recognized by a foreign counterpart for your contributions to their country,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Shyla Consalo, the JSOTF-P paralegal.  “I feel so blessed that I’ve had the opportunity to help some local families here.  Every time I look at this medal it will remind me of those families and the opportunity I had to make a difference in their lives.”

Basilan’s leaders host a Civic Action Program in Tairan

LANTAWAN, Philippines (July 28, 2011) – Approximately 1,200 residents of Tairan barangay, Lantawan province, Basilan, gathered July 28 for a combined medical, dental, and veterinary civic action program. The event was coordinated by Basilan’s provincial government, and was the first community outreach program of its kind, completely driven by key governmental organizations.

            Numerous members represented the provincial offices of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Department of Education, and Department of Agriculture; Philippine Medical Association, Philippine Dental Association, Philippine Business for Social Progress and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. By the end of the day, they had donated 300 meals to children through the feeding program, provided medical care to 300 patients, performed 117 dental extractions and vaccinated 113 livestock.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Special Operations Task Force Commander Col. Alexander Macario who attended the event as an observer, briefly helped the task force hand out comic books to children, and interacted with barangay leaders in the area.

The barangay also works as a cooperative to improve quality of life in the community, using proceeds from the barangay-owned rubber plantation to improve roads, schools, and homes.

Commanding General, III MEF and Commander, Marine Corps Bases Japan Visits JSOTF-P

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (July, 14, 2011) – U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Kenneth Glueck, Jr., Commanding General, III Marine Expeditionary Force and Commander Marine Corps Bases Japan and Philippine Marine Brig. Gen. Celestino Pereyra, Western Mindanao Command Deputy for Peace Process, are met with honors upon arrival at Western Mindanao Command. During his visit to the Philippines, General Glueck met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Marines deployed to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 Ted Green.)

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (July, 14, 2011) – U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Kenneth Glueck, Jr., Commanding General, III Marine Expeditionary Force and Commander, Marine Corps Bases Japan meets with Marines assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines at Camp Navarro. During his visit to the Philippines, Glueck met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Marines deployed to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 Ted Green.)

JSOTF-P Service Members Participate in US Embassy’s “America in 3D” Event

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 10, 2011) A service member from the Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines, speaks with a local resident during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde)

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 8, 2011) A local university journalism student films another student interviewing a member of Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde)

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 10, 2011) Cadets from the Philippine Military Academy read over a Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines information display during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 10, 2011) U.S. Ambassador Harry K. Thomas, Jr. speaks at the World War II Veterans Ceremony during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde)

BAGUIO, Philippines (July 10, 2011) Philippine World War II Veterans attend a World War II Veterans Ceremony during “America in 3D” at SM City Baguio from July 8-10. “America in 3D” is a US Embassy road show that features diplomacy, development, and defense and highlights American culture, values, and society. The three-day event included a full lineup of musical performances, free samplings of American food, cooking demonstrations, and information about U.S. visas and applying to study in the United States. The public also had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of various Embassy sections and U.S. agencies, including members of JSOTF-P. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde)

Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines Fact Sheet

Mission

The Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines mission is to support the comprehensive approach of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in their fight against terrorism and lawless elements in the southern Philippines and preventing terrorists from establishing safe havens. At the request of the Philippine government, JSOTF-P works alongside the AFP in a strictly non-combat role to defeat terrorists, eliminate safe havens and create the conditions necessary for peace, stability and prosperity in the southern Philippines.  

People

JSOTF-P is comprised of between 500 and 600 personnel from all four military services, including Army Special Operations Forces, Navy Seals, Air Force special operators and a host of support personnel from all four U.S. military services.

Organization

JSOTF-P is comprised of a headquarters element, located at Camp Navarro in Zamboanga City and three subordinate regional task forces which operate throughout Mindanao alongside the Armed Forces of the Philippines:

·      Task Force Archipelago: Based at Camp Navarro, Zamboanga del Sur Province

·      Task Force Mindanao: Based at Camp Siongco, Maguindanao Province

·      Task Force Sulu: Based at Camp Bautista, Jolo Island, Sulu Province

A handful of JSOTF-P personnel also work in Manila to coordinate activities with the US Embassy Country Team and AFP General Headquarters.

Operations

The members of JSOTF-P operate “by, through and with” their Philippine Armed Forces counterparts in a strictly non-combat role to:

• Bring humanitarian assistance to conflict-affected communities
• Medical and Dental Civic Action programs to deliver care where the need is great
• Veterinary Civic Action Programs to provide farmers livelihood assistance
• Engineering Civic Action Programs to provide local communities infrastructure improvements such as schools, water wells, roads, piers and medical centers

• Share information with the Philippine Armed Forces
• The U.S. shares intelligence data and other information to assist the AFP in planning future operations

• Build AFP capacity through subject matter expert exchange programs (SMEEs) to exchange lessons learned on subjects such as:
• Tactical Combat Casualty Care            o   Convoy Security
• Marksmanship                                      o   Forward Air Control
• Small Unit Tactics                                o   Civil Military Operations Planning
• Mission Planning                                  o   Maritime Operations
• Explosive Ordnance Disposal              o   Casualty Evacuation

Facts

·          Between October 2007 and June 2011, JSOTF-P committed more than $24 million to 220 humanitarian assistance projects to improve the quality of life for communities in need in Mindanao.

·      The AFP and JSOTF-P, during more than 500 joint civic action projects, delivered free medical and dental care to more than 104,600 patients from local communities from October 2007 to June 2011.

·       Quite a few families also benefited as their farm animals received assistance during more than 228 AFP-US veterinarian projects.

·       The AFP-US partnership completed more than 140 infrastructure projects – new schools, roads, piers, water wells, and medical centers benefiting the people of the southern Philippines.

http://jsotf-p.blogspot.com/2009/04/jsotf-p-fact-sheet.htmlhttp://jsotf-p.blogspot.com/2009/04/jsotf-p-fact-sheet.html

US and AFP Forces Welcome New JSOTF-P Commander

By Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines Public Affairs Office

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – U.S. Army Col. Fran Beaudette assumed command of Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P) from U.S. Navy Capt. Robert Gusentine during a change of command ceremony held at Camp Navarro, Western Mindanao Command June 24.

Beaudette, a 1989 Citadel graduate and Commander of 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), reaffirmed JSOTF-P’s commitment to continuing the partnership and collaboration with the Philippine Security Forces (PSF).

“Colonel Fran Beaudette comes to us as Commander of 1st Special Forces Group. He is a highly effective leader who specializes in teaming with allies and partners to achieve mutual objectives, especially in counterinsurgency environments,” said Commander, Special Operations Command Pacific, Maj. Gen. Norman Brozenick, the ceremony’s guest speaker.

During the ceremony Beaudette congratulated Gusentine on the progress he made while commander.  Beaudette said he is ready to continue the success.

"It is a tremendous honor and privilege to be able to join the men and women of Joint Special Operations Task Force, Philippines, and to serve alongside our exceptional Filipino partners in the fight against terrorism,” said Beaudette during the ceremony.

The Honorable Harry K. Thomas, Jr., U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines presided over the ceremony and extended his congratulations to Beaudette. The ambassador also offered the embassy’s continued support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and to JSOTF-P.

 “You (Beaudette) and JSOTF-P will work side-by-side with our AFP colleagues here in Mindanao, and all through the southern parts of the Philippines, and most importantly with the citizens of the southern Philippines,” Thomas said. “You will be here to continue to demonstrate the United States’ full diplomatic commitment to our allies and our friendship and partnership with the AFP.”  

During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Renato Sanchez, Commander, 3rd Air Division, presented Gusentine with one of the highest AFP honors for JSOTF-P’s contributions by awarding him the AFP’s Chief of Staff Commendation Medal.  Sanchez commented that while under Gusentine’s command, JSOTF-P supported more than 67 Philippine Special Forces operations targeting violent extremist organizations. The operations led to the Philippine Forces capturing 13 high-valued individuals throughout the southern Philippines.

“Gus, your leadership and council was pivotal to assisting the disruption of the Jemaah Islamiyah and Abu Sayyaf Group networks, denying sanctuaries, capturing high-valued targets and delivering essential goods and services to the people,” said Brozenick.

Additionally, Gusentine led the effort to improve the working relationship between JSOTF-P and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to deliver vital humanitarian assistance to the people of the Southern Philippines.

"Today is really my day to say thank you, for the past 12 months I held the best job in the Navy,” said Gusentine, “and I will never forget it.”

Beaudette said in closing, “It is with great pride that I am able to say that I have joined your ranks and I’m ready to stand shoulder to shoulder in supporting each of your efforts.”

Gen. North Visits the Southern Philippines

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North and Armed Forces of the Philippines, Brig. Gen. Eldon Luis G. Nemenzo, 3rd Air Division deputy commander are met with honors upon arrival at Edwin Andrews Air Base. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North greets members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines at Western Mindanao Command. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Cassandra Thompson.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North (right), speaks with Philippines Air Force, Maj. Gen. Renato Lorenzo Sanchez, 3rd Air Division Commander, during an office call at Western Mindanao Command. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North addresses Airmen assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines at Edwin Andrews Air Base. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North addresses Airmen assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines at Edwin Andrews Air Base. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Republic of the Philippines (June 22, 2011) -- Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Gen. Gary North talks with an Airman assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines at Edwin Andrews Air Base. During his visit to the Philippines, North met with members of the U.S. Embassy, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and U.S. Forces assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines to discuss the strategic Philippine/U.S. partnership. (Official U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Ryan Valverde.)

U.S., Philippine Navies Join for 17th CARAT Exercise in Palawan

U.S., Philippine Navies Join for 17th CARAT Exercise in Palawan

PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines (NNS) -- Three U.S. Navy ships arrived in Puerto Princesa, Philippines, to launch the 17th Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Philippines, June 28. ... read about it here.

Operation Smile Brings Hope to ARMM Children

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines, (June 11, 2011) Families of cleft lip patients wait outside the operating room at Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao for their names to be called. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines (June 11, 2011) The family of a cleft lip patient, and their belongings, arrive at Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao in the back of an Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) five-ton truck. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 reconstructive surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Theodore Green/Released)

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines, (June 11, 2011) Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) nurses help with patient inprocessing of children waiting for cleft lip and cleft palate surgery at Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines, (June 11, 2011)  Plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists and nurses from Operation Smile work through the night to perform reconstructive surgery on provincial children at Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

AWANG, Maguindanao, Philippines, (June 11, 2011) A team of plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists and nurses from Operation Smile perform one of the more challenging cases of the four-day event.  The surgeries took place on provincial children at Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Camp Siongco Station in Maguindanao. The AFP's 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao partnered with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Department of Health, ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development and local volunteer nurses to bring the non-governmental organization Operation Smile into the ARMM for the first time, and conduct close to 100 surgeries in four days (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

Operation Smile Brings Hope to ARMM Children

(Feature Story)

MAGUINDANAO, Philippines (June 11, 2011) – For thousands of children in southern Mindanao with cleft lip or cleft palate deformities, life can be a struggle. In addition to the dental, nasal, and speech problems that may develop from their condition, these children may have little hope of attending school or enjoying a normal life.

Although cleft lip and cleft palate surgery is common in urban areas where access to medical facilities exists, it is an expensive procedure and uncommon opportunity for families living in remote areas. The possibility of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) volunteering their services in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is complicated by the area’s reputation for instability and difficult access to remote areas.

For this reason, the cooperative effort between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), Knightsbridge International, ARMM Department of Health, and ARMM Department of Social Welfare and Development to bring a team of plastic surgeons from Operation Smile to Maguindanao and give nearly 100 patients this life-altering surgery free of charge is unprecedented.

From June 7-11, more than 100 families arrived, primarily by 6th Infantry Division trucks, and crowded the usually serene lawn on Camp Siongco Hospital transforming it into a triage and in-processing center for Operation Smile.

Because of ongoing construction of a new hospital facility, Col. Eric De Leon, AFP commanding officer of the Camp Siongco Hospital, explained that the base had no waiting room, recovery room, or operating room for the doctors to work in. But he remained undaunted in his pursuit to support Operation Smile. With a little ingenuity and hard work by combined AFP and US forces, a bare room was converted into the surgical area, and two barracks buildings were cleared out to make room for overnight and recovering patients. AFP nurses helped with the prescreening of patients, and AFP cooks provided hundreds of meals for their guests.

“In line with the Bayanihan spirit, AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan, we are assisting the Local Government Units (LGUs) and NGOs to provide medical services to the less fortunate in the areas of Maguindanao,” said De Leon. “This will make a big impact on the community, because when the families get back to their respective municipalities, they could tell their neighbors how effective the AFP is.”

Knightsbridge International, a Philippine-based NGO, procured the necessary medical equipment and supplies, and RN HEALS provided volunteer nurses to stay in the recovery wards overnight with patients.

“We’ve always talked about it, but we’ve hardly touched the ARMM areas,” explained Dr. Lawrence Loh, team leader for the incipient Operation Smile mission in Cotabato. “People are afraid to come into the ARMM area, they see it as a dangerous place. But we see a great need to take care of these kids. So many of them were registered and screened. We definitely have to come back.”

Operation Smile, a U.S. NGO that has been in service since 1982, arrived in Maguindanao June 7.  After a slow start (only 7 patients on the first day), and with the help of local nurses and nursing students, the pace quickly increased on the last day. Plastic surgeons and staff worked into the night to perform a total of 96 surgeries.

“A lot of people say this is a war-torn area, but the doctors and nurses from Operation Smile came here with courage and scalpels. I am so glad that I got to participate here,” said Jade Demao, a newly certified nurse, who said she will remember this rewarding mission as her first real job.

“You can see the results after the surgery,” added De Leon. “A happy face and a happy family going back home, which leads to a better community.”

AFP, JSOTF-P and USDA Participate in Sulu Agricultural Seminar

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) A U.S. Army soldier assigned to the Joint Service Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) thanks Mindanao State University Sulu faculty and students for attending a veterinary/agricultural seminar at the Sulu Area Coordination Center. The seminar, hosted by Sulu's provincial government, was the first of its kind in Sulu, and featured Philip Shull, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service counselor. The seminar highlighted the USDA as a ready resource for agricultural advice and programs in conflict-affected areas. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) Mindanao State University Sulu students listen to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Joint Service Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) representatives speak at a veterinary/agricultural seminar held at the Sulu Area Coordination Center. The seminar, hosted by Sulu's provincial government, was the first of its kind in Sulu, and featured Philip Shull, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service counselor. The seminar highlighted the USDA as a ready resource for agricultural advice and programs in conflict-affected areas. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) Philip Shull, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) foreign service counselor, speaks to Mindanao State University Sulu faculty and students at a veterinary/agricultural seminar at the Sulu Area Coordination Center. Shull was the keynote speaker and said he hoped the seminar, conducted for the first time in Sulu and hosted by the provincial government, would draw attention to the USDA as a ready resource for agricultural advice and programs. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) Philip Shull, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) foreign service counselor, speaks to Mindanao State University Sulu faculty and students at a veterinary/agricultural seminar at the Sulu Area Coordination Center. Shull was the keynote speaker and said he hoped the seminar, conducted for the first time in Sulu and hosted by the provincial government, would draw attention to the USDA as a ready resource for agricultural advice and programs. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) Mindanao State University Sulu faculty and students pose for a photo during a veterinary/agricultural seminar held at the Sulu Area Coordination Center. The seminar, hosted by Sulu’s provincial government, was the first of its kind in Sulu and featured Philip Shull, a USDA Foreign Agricultural Service counselor. Shull said he hoped the seminar would draw attention to the USDA as a ready resource for agricultural advice and programs. JSOTF-P is temporarily deployed in southern Philippines at the request of the Philippine government. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cassandra Thompson/Released)

AFP, JSOTF-P and USDA Participate in Sulu Agricultural Seminar

(Press Release) 

JOLO, Philippines (June 1, 2011) More than 100 faculty members and students from Mindanao State University, Sulu, participated on June 1 in a historic Veterinary/Agricultural Seminar at the Sulu Area Coordination Center.

Hosted by Sulu’s provincial government, the seminar, which was the first of its kind in conflict-affected Sulu province, featured Philip Shull, a foreign service agricultural counselor from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and veterinarians from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P).

Shull said he hopes the seminar will help Sulu barangays develop a closer relationship with the Philippine government and draw attention to the value of the resources at the U.S. Embassy for agricultural advice and support programs.

“We hope they see the U.S. as a positive partner with the Philippine government and a positive force in the lives and communities of the Filipino people,” Shull said. “And we are hopeful that in the future we will be able to do regular outreach seminars like this and bring in experts who can convey information that is critical and will have a quick and direct impact on their lives, their livelihood, and their families.”

Also in attendance were Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan and members of the Philippine Department of Agriculture, the Philippines Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Sulu Area Coordination Center (ACC).

The U.S. Army veterinarian assigned to JSOTF-P said the goal of the seminar was to engage the local government in partnership with the U.S. Embassy and the AFP and eventually help facilitate this kind of civic assistance with increasingly greater local government participation and sponsorship.

“The presence of the USDA team was critical because it helped marry provincial-level assets with their national-level counterparts,” said another JSOTF-P team member. 

“These relationships will help Sulu coordinate future seminars and subject matter information exchanges, enhancing the knowledge and capacity of the local farmers of Sulu.”

In addition to giving practical advice on farming techniques, the speakers used samples, pamphlets, and handouts to increase awareness of common livestock diseases and toxic plants in southern Mindanao and introduce new uses for familiar agricultural products, including home remedies for common illnesses.

“We appreciate and welcome so many groups coming together sharing their thoughts, resources, and enthusiasm for agriculture,” said Fazlur Abdullah, Sulu ACC director.

“The mission of the governor is to enhance, develop, and improve our natural resources. Opening up to the outside world, floating ideas, doing community outreach will help us help ourselves and instill confidence in our people. Our goal is food sufficiency. We should be producing our own food.”

Abdullah said he hopes these seminars will be conducted in the future “soon and often.”