Knee Deep in the Hooah!

This is what I would call a “naturally occurring community resource” from my days of resource mapping and working in mental health. I think the concept is right on target, it’s culturally sensitive, and it shows respect to the civilians in Iraq, while also providing a way to to protect them from hidden bombers. Good thinking, and good planning!

Soldiers create ‘Daughters of Iraq’ program
by Capt. Mike Starz
Armed Forces Press Service

(excerpt)

WASHINGTON (April 22, 2008) — Soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division are working with Iraqi army troops to help create a Daughters of Iraq program to complement the work done by the Sons of Iraq.

The Iraqi women in the program would be able to search other females at security checkpoints, expanding the capabilities of the Sons of Iraq currently manning the checkpoints.

The Sons of Iraq are an organization of volunteers who have united to stand against terrorists in their homeland. They have been credited with helping bring peace to much of Iraq.

Steve Martinez, a law enforcement professional attached to the division’s Company C, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, said it became necessary to integrate women into security roles because terrorists began using females to carry out suicide attacks against Iraqis and coalition forces.

Employing women at checkpoints, Martinez said, would “provide a complete and thorough search of suspect females with the utmost respect for the individual and local customs without compromising the safety of others.”

The Daughters of Iraq will search other women in and around Yusifiyah to help prevent trafficking of weapons, explosives and dangerous materials. In addition to the significant security gains that these women will bring to the checkpoints, there are other advantages.

Read more HERE