I have Elements six and eight and quite frankly never use the organizer. If I recall correctly you can tell the organizer to fetch images from certain folders only. So the thing to do is create a folder with a name, drag all images to that folder. Every time I upload from a memory card, I use the in-house scan program for windows that automatically pops up whenever I plug in card.
1. create folder with name a date and place where you want. I use a date and small topic name, ex: Aug 20-10 Bellfountain; Dec 30-10 HR birthday, etc.
2. plug card into computer, shut down any other auto working programs if they pop up, or tell other programs not to auto download if this option available. Windows autoprogram will pop up; select "Copy picture to folder on my computer." In your case, plug external drive into computer and allow the auto program to start.
3. Simply follow instructions and it will allow you to create a name for images and to direct them to the preselected folder.
4. Otherwise, simply open hardrive folder and drag selected folders to your destination.
JMR