Knee Deep in the Hooah!

A great roundup of good news from the front lines.

IA, MND-B Soldiers Discuss Success

Posted on 08.05.2008 at 01:39PM
By Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield
2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division

Excerpt

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Leaders from Iraqi army 9th Logistics Division’s three battalions and 225th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” Multi-National Division – Baghdad met, July 27, 2008, to discuss ideas, challenges, and most importantly their accomplishments.

The Iraqi army’s 34th, 36th, and 37th Logistics Battalions have worked closely with the Soldiers of 225th BSB since December 2007.

They have trained side-by-side daily, performing combat life saver courses, weapons training and convoy security training; along with the occasional soccer game and award ceremony.

Recently a new “train-the-trainer” program began, where Soldiers from the 225th BSB train Iraqi soldiers on tasks and then test them on their ability to train another soldier.

“We used to run the CLS class, but now they do the whole thing on their own,” said Maj. Cary Bathrick, native of Baily, Colo., and executive officer, 225th BSB.

Through the many phases of Operation Iraqi Freedom, coalition forces have assisted Iraqi security forces with the intent of building a strong and secure Iraq that the Iraqis can ultimately support themselves. Read More
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Baghdad Zoo Regains Signature With New Tigers

Posted on 08.08.2008 at 03:36PM
By Staff Sgt. Michel Sauret
Multi-National Division - Central

Excerpt

BAGHDAD – The Baghdad Zoo hosts just about every animal Iraqi families and children might expect to see, from lions and bears to ostriches.

The only one missing was the tiger. On Aug. 8, 2008, the zoo officially welcomed Riley and Hope, two Siberian-Bengal tigers, to their animal kingdom.

“This is a very important step to improve relationships [between] the zoo and the people of Iraq, and it is proof that the security situation in Iraq is getting better,” said Adel Salman Mousa, the Baghdad Zoo director.

Riley and Hope, male and female respectively, were donated by the Conservators’ Center in North Carolina.

“They’re a real signature species; people really identify with the beauty of the tigers,” said Lt. Col. Robert Sindler, the Multi-National Coalition – Iraq veterinary officer who helped bring the tigers to Baghdad.

When Sindler first spoke with the zoo director, he asked which animal the park needed most. The tiger topped his list.

“The zoo has been a real gem for the people here in Iraq … and the tigers will really add to that,” he said.

Sindler is a veterinarian in Orlando when not serving in the military. As such, he had personal clients in the U.S. who owned tigers. After some talking and coordination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Sindler found the right pair of tigers and the owners willing to donate cats to benefit the people of Iraq. Read More
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Marine Gives Child the Gift of Mobility

Posted on 08.08.2008 at 09:44AM
By Lance Cpl. Joshua Murray
Regimental Combat Team - 5

Excerpt

ANAH, Iraq – Parents rarely expect their children to be born with a debilitating birth-defect, so when the parents of Balquis Rajib Ascar discovered her inability to walk, they were a bit unprepared.

Instead of running and playing outside, Balquis, now six, had to be carried everywhere by her family in their hometown of Anah, Iraq. That situation changed recently, however, because of the caring of one Marine, who has made great improvement in Balquis’ quality of life.

Cpl. Michael A. Goodman, mortar section leader with the Warlords of Company E, Task Force 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines, Regimental Combat Team 5, discovered Balquis’ disability and has since devoted his off-duty time to assisting the little girl and her family. Coordinating with his wife, a nurse in Georgetown, Ohio, Goodman arranged for Co. E to present Balquis with a custom-built wheelchair July 12, 2008.

“Iraq’s future is dependent on its children,” Goodman said. “I saw it as a good opportunity to give back to the Iraqi people, since Iraq doesn’t have any kind of children’s hospital set up yet. I had access to this resource, so why not help?”

Working together, Goodman and his wife coordinated with a representative from a corporation specializing in custom wheelchairs. The company agreed to make one just the right size for Balquis.

“My wife talked to the head nurse at her hospital and got the number to the wheelchair company,” Goodman said. “The company needed the girl’s dimensions, so we had to get in contact with the family. This enabled the best fit possible for the girl, leaving her some room to grow. Read More
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Iraqi Females Stepping Forward to Ensure Security at Check Points

Posted on 08.08.2008 at 07:57AM
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq

Excerpt

A Soldier stops a car at a checkpoint and does a vehicle inspection after making the male driver step out. The Soldier walks around the vehicle and sees a woman sitting in the back seat wearing the standard black clothing, her eyes and hands are the only parts visible. She looks nine months pregnant so he doesn’t think she needs to get out into the over 115 degree heat and be searched. The Soldier allows the vehicle to pass through, and it happens. A thunderous boom with shrapnel flying and screams reverberate throughout the checkpoint. One act of a Soldier’s “compassion” was his last.

Female suicide bombers are becoming more common, and some insurgents are taking advantage of Soldiers who are reluctant to search females. Some men are even dressing as women to get through checkpoints.

Now, Iraqi females are stepping forward to be trained on how to search women and helping to solve the problem at some checkpoints.

“Having the females searching Iraqis is a good thing,” said Col. Hussein Al-Aalan, the Balad District Director of Police. “She can search females that are something males can’t do.”

Manar Abdul Mutaleib, the only female member of the Balad City Council, started inquiring to the council about using Iraqi females after seeing a story on the television about a female suicide bomber blowing herself up in a market.

“My mission [is] to find the females a job to work because right now, in my association, I have more than 950 without any job[s],” said Mutaleib.

Mutaleib fulfilled her mission with more than 50 Iraqi females volunteering to take the job of helping at the Balad checkpoints. The city council chose females who had lost their Iraqi police husbands to insurgents as priority to help feed their families.

“We have 10 females in Balad that are actually able to search females coming into Balad,” said Staff Sgt. Iris Munoz, a Phoenix native and a squad leader for the 164th Military Police Company, based out of Fort Richardson, Alaska. Read More
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Iraqi Forces Continue Coalition Success, Maintain Security Throughout Iraq

Posted on 08.07.2008 at 06:54PM
By Army Staff Sgt. Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

Excerpt

WASHINGTON - Despite the recent drawdown of coalition troops in Iraq, violence levels continue to drop as Iraqi security forces grow in competency and size, a senior coalition spokesman said today during a news conference in Iraq.

Throughout the past few weeks, coalition forces have drawn down troop numbers in Iraq. The last of the five original surge brigades, two Marine battalions and an Australian battle group have redeployed without the need for replacements, said Navy Rear Adm. Patrick Driscoll.

At the same time, Iraqi forces have grown by more than 148,000 troops, and the Sunni Muslim Sons of Iraq citizen security groups are more than 100,000 members strong, Driscoll said.

“This [Iraqi forces surge] explains how we can continue to see very low levels of violence even though [coalition forces] have taken away a lot of combat power based,” he said.

Recent Iraqi-led operations in Basra have allowed the local citizens to regain control of their city. The operations drove the insurgency - mostly Iranian-backed “special groups” criminals - either into hiding or into Iran for sanctuary, the admiral said.

“The operations in Basra really instituted the rule of law there,” Driscoll said. “The people there are able to live freely again without intimidation and extortion by militias.”

The operations were also a great success for the Iraqi government and prime minister. Individuals who once saw Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki as a leader partial a certain sect, now proclaim him as a nationalist, a leader for the people of Iraq, he said. Read More
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Operation Summit Pursuit Brings ‘hope’ to a Region Once Terrorized by AQI

Posted on 08.07.2008 at 03:31PM
By Staff Sgt. Margaret C. Nelson
1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division

Excerpt

FORWARD OPERATING BASE MCHENRY, Iraq – Amid the turmoil and political uncertainty that clouds the future of their provincial capital city, Operation Summit Pursuit - spearheaded by Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, approximately 30 miles southwest of Kirkuk - brought hope to the people in the Districts of Hawijah and Sharqat, united Iraqi security forces, Sunni-Arab tribal and local government leadership and the Sons of Iraq.

“This cooperative effort which began July 27, partially destroyed the remnants of al-Qaida in Iraq along the Northern Tigris River Valley and brought a prolonged military presence to the people in those regions - not seen in over three years,” Lt. Col. Christopher Vanek, commander, 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment said at the conclusion of the operation on Aug. 5, 2008.

Operation Summit Pursuit, a task force level operation under the larger Iron-Warrior Pursuit Operations, utilized conventional lethal methods coupled with its non-lethal civil affairs tactics to concentrate on villages where ISF and coalition forces had conducted previous raids on known AQI targets and to move further into territory susceptible to AQI influence, according to the task force commander.

This operation focused on the district’s northern most regions concentrating on the villages of Hegnah, Sabah and Taq Taq; once safe havens for notable AQI operatives such as al Zarqawi, according to Sheik Razzaq of Hegnah.

“Since December we have had many changes here,” Razzaq said.

He was referring to the inception of Task Force Summit’s reconciliation efforts and the establishment of the Sons of Iraq program here, and more recent Operation Muthana Strike, June 4, that took the lives of three 1-87 Soldiers during a fire fight with an AQI cell in Hegnah.

“This is the first time that we have had Iraqi security forces and coalition forces in Hegnah. Because of their commitment to our people, we are able to live in peace and begin rebuilding our lives without fear,” he said. Read More
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Inaugural Medical Conference Held in Ramadi

Posted on 08.07.2008 at 02:05PM
By Lance Cpl. Casey Jones
Regimental Combat Team 1

Excerpt

RAMADI, Iraq - Approximately 100 doctors and medical personnel gathered for the 2008 al Anbar Medical Conference in Ramadi, July 28-31, 2008.

The purpose of the conference was to discuss any concerns or reoccurring problems in the Iraqi medical community.

“We needed this conference to highlight the need for continued education in the health industry of al Anbar,” said Air Force Col. Maryann Ante-Amburgey, the Embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team 2-Ramadi social affairs leader.

The continued education lectures were delivered mostly by two American doctors, a neurosurgeon and a neurologist, throughout the four-day event.

“This was a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet with those doctors and lecture them on new information and practices,” said Dr. Patricia Kavanagh, a 58-year-old neurologist from Brooklyn, N.Y. “They have been to an extent cut off from the international medical community and they’re now starting to reestablish their relationships and medical knowledge. Their knowledge was pretty good considering what they’ve been up against.”

According to Derwent “Buck” Daniel, the deputy health attaché for the U.S. State Department, the medical conference was the first ever in al Anbar.

The organizers were able to hold the conference now because of the increased security situation in Ramadi.

The Ramadi Iraqi police provided security for the event, with several Marines from 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1,who served in an over-watch role for the maturing police force.

“Without security, they wouldn’t able to hold these types of conferences and meetings,” said Cpl. John Allen, a mortarman with 81mm Mortar Platoon, Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, who was part of the security squad for the event. “The Iraqi police are continuing to protect their city. We were basically there to make sure the Iraqi Police were doing what they already know how to do. They did a great job.”

With the protection and security provided by the Iraqi policemen and Marines, a small number of attendees were able to observe the successful removal of a brain tumor from an Iraqi female. The patient had been suffering from the tumor for more than 18 years.

The purpose of the surgery was to apply practical knowledge to a real-life situation with the guidance and assistance of an American neurosurgeon, Dr. Michael Carey, chief of neurosurgery at the Manhattan, N.Y., Veterans Affairs Hospital. Read More
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Baghdad Native Returns to Iraq to Help Win the Peace

Posted on 08.07.2008 at 11:51AM
By Staff Sgt. Don Branum
332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

Excerpt

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq — Airman Mohiadeen — “Mo” to his wingmen — was born in Baghdad in 1988. His father, a Muslim, owned a small shoe company; his mother, a Christian, stayed home to raise him and his brother. Although their family was financially comfortable, something was missing, he said.
“They wanted freedom. There was no freedom there,” he said.

His family emigrated from Iraq in 1990. “We just wanted a new life,” Airman Mohiadeen said. “Life was pretty hard when Saddam was in power.” Airman Mohiadeen’s family spent two years traveling from country to country — through Jordan, Turkey and Germany — before finally arriving in the United States. The voyage eroded most of his family’s savings, but the trip was worth the cost.

“Our family wanted freedom,” Airman Mohiadeen said. “There’s freedom in the United States. It was like trading money for freedom, but it would still be worth it.”

He lived with his family in Los Angeles for several years and later moved to Portland, Ore. When the United States began Operation Iraqi Freedom in March 2003, his parents became linguists.
“When the war kicked off, my parents saw an opportunity to help out and give back to the United States,” he said. “They’ve both been to (Joint Base) Balad, and my mom just came back from Bucca, Iraq, God bless her soul.” Read More
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Vigilance in Community Provides Peace for Iraqi People

Posted on 08.07.2008 at 04:27AM
By Staff Sgt Michel Sauret
Multi-National Division - Center

Excerpt

BAGHDAD, Iraq - Upon the wall of their operations cell, a painting depicts a lion head with a banner reading, “Vigilance is Excellence.”

However, for Task Force Vigilant, a patrolling and quick-reaction team for Multi-National Division - Center, vigilance also stands for peace.

“If we weren’t doing patrols, it wouldn’t be as calm as it is,” said Pvt. Adam Burrell, a team driver from Hart, Mich.

TF Vigilant patrols neighborhoods near the Baghdad International Airport to ensure the security of the local community. They do this through housing assessments and night patrols aimed at keeping streets clear during curfew hours outside of the Victory Base Complex perimeters. This prevents criminals from gathering or acting out plans at night.

“In the end, we are making a difference because we’re establishing control,” said Pvt. William Tulloch, a team patrolman and driver from Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

The majority of the people in the community work for the airport. The villages provide the people with housing near work at affordable living rates.

In order to continually improve living conditions, TF Vigilant Soldiers introduce themselves to households and ask household members to fill out a survey. If there are ever issues needing resolved, such as improving sewage or electricity, the team coordinates with higher headquarters or their civil affairs counterpart. Read More
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IA, MND-B Soldiers Discuss Success

Posted on 08.05.2008 at 01:39PM
By Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield
2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division

Excerpt

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Leaders from Iraqi army 9th Logistics Division’s three battalions and 225th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” Multi-National Division – Baghdad met, July 27, 2008, to discuss ideas, challenges, and most importantly their accomplishments.

The Iraqi army’s 34th, 36th, and 37th Logistics Battalions have worked closely with the Soldiers of 225th BSB since December 2007.

They have trained side-by-side daily, performing combat life saver courses, weapons training and convoy security training; along with the occasional soccer game and award ceremony.

Recently a new “train-the-trainer” program began, where Soldiers from the 225th BSB train Iraqi soldiers on tasks and then test them on their ability to train another soldier.

“We used to run the CLS class, but now they do the whole thing on their own,” said Maj. Cary Bathrick, native of Baily, Colo., and executive officer, 225th BSB.

Through the many phases of Operation Iraqi Freedom, coalition forces have assisted Iraqi security forces with the intent of building a strong and secure Iraq that the Iraqis can ultimately support themselves.

The IA has overcome many obstacles, but is still struggling with a few issues such as low amounts of fuel and insufficient repair parts for vehicles.

These issues were addressed in the meeting along with many ideas on how they can be resolved.

“I think that it’s great that you have all come together to share what you have accomplished, your ideas and the challenges you face ahead,” said Lt. Col. Barry Diehl, native of Martinsburg Pa., MND-B logistics and supply officer. Diehl was invited to attend the meeting to gain some insight as to how things operate.

“It is eye opening experience for me to see what you [IA leaders] have gone through. Even though you don’t have all of the resources you need, you haven’t given up and you continue to try. I commend you for your leadership and your continued effort to make things better for your Soldiers.” Read More
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Ramadi Citizens Gather for Soccer Field Reopening

Posted on 08.05.2008 at 01:16PM
By Lance Cpl. Casey Jones
Regimental Combat Team 1

Excerpt

RAMADI, Iraq – Mustafa, a 14-year-old Iraqi boy, couldn’t stand still during a recent soccer tournament at the grand reopening of the 17th Street Soccer field, July 24, 2008.

Donning a David Beckham t-shirt, he jokingly taunted the opposing team and passionately cheered for his own. Halfway through the game, a Marine, surprised to see a Beckham shirt, walked up to Mustafa and said, “David Beckham—zien [Arabic for good].” Mustafa, without hesitation, replied, “Beckham—koule zien,” or very good, as he jumped out of his seat and raised both arms as his team scored a goal.

Soccer, often considered “the sport that brings the world together,” is a big part of every day life in Ramadi, leading the city’s officials, with the assistance of Civil Affairs Detachment 2, 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, to have the field renovated.

The tournament was sponsored by the North District Council of Ramadi, North Precinct Ramadi Police, and 1st Battalion, 9th Marines.

Kareem Ali, the Ramadi North District Council chairman, said the entire city was looking forward to the reopening.

“The people are so glad they have this soccer field again,” Ali said through an interpreter. “Before the reopening, it seemed like everywhere I went somebody would always mention it to me and tell me how excited they were [about the reopening]. Soccer brings everybody together regardless of their age.”

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Eric Jett, a team leader with Civil Affairs, said the field was repaired in an effort to give the rebuilding neighborhood another sign of hope. The results were better than expected.

“Everyone thought the soccer field would only have a positive impact on the North Precinct of Ramadi, but after it was renovated everyone from the city started coming over here” said Ali. “It was originally built for the north district, but really it’s for everybody. The reopening has been big for the entire city.”

Ali said summer was the right time to reopen the field, giving the city’s youth a better opportunity to stay active and avoid any negative influences. Read More
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Marines target oil smugglers, protect citizens

by Cpl. Ryan L. Tomlinson
Regimental Combat Team 5

Excerpt

UM AL WAZZ, Iraq (Aug. 6, 2008) – Western al-Anbar province was one of the most dangerous areas in Iraq in recent years, and Marine units operating there have encountered threats ranging from improvised explosive devices to small-arms firefights.

Delta Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance, 2nd LAR Bn., Regimental Combat Team 5 has come across a different threat, however: oil smuggling.

“It’s been passed down from the regiment that there is a threat of insurgents utilizing oil smuggling to transport and fund their operations,” said Capt. Joseph C. Maher, 28, company commander of Delta Co. and an Omaha, Neb., native. “These towns are like home ground for smuggling, and we’re here to ensure it stops.”

The company visited the towns of Um Al Wazz and Midham to search the area and question the citizens for any suspicious activity or knowledge of smuggling. The Marines cordoned off the whole area, ensuring a thorough search.

“Most people in Iraq want to live their lives in a safe and secure environment, and if the enemy elements are invading the town, the [residents] are in danger,” said Staff Sgt. Justin M. Cuomo, a scout squad leader with Delta Co. “Stopping them prevents them from harming an isolated village.”

During the operation, the Marines detained one suspected smuggler and more than four trucks, putting a damper on their operations and profits. The mission lasted about two days, consisting of clearing two towns and gathering knowledge.

“When we put a dent in the oil smuggling and insurgency operations, we thereby lay a dent in al-Qaida of Iraq,” said Lance Cpl. Scott J. A. Baish, 23, a Delta Co. scout from Hagerstown, Md. “Denying al-Qaida access to the town will take away the opposition of the city’s government and make it more effective.” Read More
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Brigade commander: Rashid progress ‘phenomenal’

by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Excerpt

WASHINGTON — Iraqi Security Forces have made such an improvement that Coalition forces in Baghdad’s Rashid district are able to turn their attention to rebuilding the area, the commander of the brigade assigned there said Aug. 4.

Army Col. Ted Martin, commander of the 4th Infantry Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team, said he has seen “phenomenal progress” since he was first in Iraq in 2003.

“For the first time, I’ve seen Iraqi Security Forces that can plan, prepare and execute first-class offensive operations,” Martin said via video teleconference from Camp Falcon. “I’ve also seen a high level of trust and respect by the people of Rashid for their own army and police forces.”

Iraqi and Coalition forces are working closely together in the region, which once was one of the most dangerous areas in Iraq, a battleground containing al-Qaida in Iraq and Iranian-sponsored “special groups.” In July 2007, 824 attacks took place in the district, a daily average of 27 attacks. But Coalition and Iraqi forces have worked together to turn the situation around, Martin said.

“Together, we conduct relentless offensive operations designed to kill, capture or drive from Rashid anyone who threatens the safety and security of the people we have sworn to protect,” he said.

When the brigade arrived in March, an average of five attacks per day took place in the district. Today, the daily average is 1.5 attacks, the colonel said.

“I believe this reduction in violence is a direct result of the conditions set by the success of the surge in forces and combat power,” Martin said. “We built on this success and have seen a dramatic reduction in violence in the past four months.” Read More
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General: Several factors contribute to Iraq improvement

by John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service

Excerpt

WASHINGTON (Aug. 3, 2008) — A combination of factors is responsible for the improved conditions in Iraq, the commander of coalition forces in the northern part of the country said Aug. 3.

Army Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, commander of Multi-National Division - North, appeared on CNN’s “Late Edition With Wolf Blitzer.”

Hertling said the coalition’s troop surge, Iraq’s security forces, national and provincial officials and the population’s rejection of violent extremism all have contributed to a sharp decline in violence and allowed for economic progress.

The surge did much to improve security in Baghdad and other regions, he said, and “Sons of Iraq” citizen groups have assisted Coalition and Iraqi forces in the security effort. At the same time, he said, Iraq’s army and police forces have continued to mature.

“There is an increasing capability of the Iraqi Security Forces,” the general said. “They have grown tremendously, even in the 11 months we’ve been here. The capability of the Iraqi Security Force has certainly contributed - both the army and the police. The Sons of Iraq are part of the security elements in the northern provinces, and they have helped in some areas like Hawijah, Samarra, and some other places.”

In addition, Hertling said, the Iraqi government and the country’s provincial governments “are starting to get their act together and providing jobs for people.” Read More
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Iraq to resume oil exploration after 20 year pause

Thu Aug 7, 2008 3:45pm EDT
By Wisam Mohammed

Excerpt

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq will resume searching for oil on Friday for the first time in two decades, the oil ministry said on Thursday, in the hope of finding vast reserves that lay undiscovered because of sanctions and war.

Iraq has 115 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, the third largest in the world, but the government believes the country’s actual oil reserves may be three times as high.

Asim Jihad, spokesman for Oil Ministry, said it had trained three teams of geophysicists, geologists and engineers and would kick off exploration in the Gharraf field in Nassiriya in southern Iraq on Friday. Read More
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Historic Mesbah pool reopens in Karadah (Baghdad)

Saturday, 09 August 2008
Multi-National Corps – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory

Excerpt

BAGHDAD – Children and young adults alike donned swimming trunks to take the plunge or a dive after the re-opening of the Mesbah Pool in the Karadah district of southeast Baghdad, Aug. 7.

Iraqi officials, contractors and Soldiers from 5th Battalion, 25th Field Artillery, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), worked together to bring this historic pool back to the people of Iraq.

The Mesbah Pool is an Olympic-sized pool that has been around for quite a long time, since 1927, according to Nibras, the project manager for the Mesbah Pool. He said it was the first pool built in Iraq.

“A lot of the people in high-level government positions … remember swimming in this pool when they were children,” said Capt. Sean O’Brien, effects coordinator for 5th Bn., 25th FA. “There is a lot of pride associated with it in the community.”

Unfortunately, the pool fell into disrepair over the years. When the time came to fix it, some wanted to just tear the whole thing down and start from scratch, said Sgt. 1st Class Raymond Allen, a non-commissioned officer assigned to 5th Bn. 25th FA’s effects cell.

It took a great deal of hard work in a short amount of time to renovate Mesbah pool. Some people wanted to tear it down and start from scratch, but that wasn’t necessary.

“We did our best to finish it in one month and it is a great job,” he said..

Contractors worked day and night to complete the pool upgrades in time to allow children to swim there before school starts. The renovation also brought back memories for those who swam there when they were children.

The pool is a particular favorite of older Iraqis who have memories of swimming there during their youth, Nibras said. It is like a dream for them. The restoration of the pool holds a lot of symbolism.

“There were a lot of people in the beginning who had doubts about the restoration of this historic landmark,” he said. “But they were proven wrong today.”

Sallama Albaldway, a nearby resident, said she was very pleased to see the pool re-open and to see children given an opportunity to enjoy the pool, as she had when she was child.

One of the contractors who worked on the project had a close bond with the pool; his father swam in the pool before it fell into disrepair O’Brien said. Such a strong personal tie gave the contractor great enthusiasm for the project. Read More
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Tip prevents potential VBIED attack in Adhamiyah (Baghdad)

Multi-National Corps – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20080809-03
Aug. 9, 2008

Full Article with Permission

Multi-National Division – Baghdad

BAGHDAD – A tip from a concerned local citizen led Multi-National Division Baghdad Soldiers to a potential vehicle-borne improvised-explosive device before it could detonate in the Adhamiyah district Aug. 8.

“Thanks to a concerned citizen who provided the information on a potential VBIED, it was able to be secured without loss or injury to any civilians,” said Maj. Byron Sarchet, information operations officer and a spokesperson for the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division -Baghdad.

An explosive ordnance disposal team responded and conducted a controlled detonation on the vehicle.

Within minutes of the initial detonation, there was a large, secondary explosion that resulted in damage to nearby buildings and vehicles. There were no injuries in either explosion. MND-B Soldiers will be handing out claims cards to residents whose property was damaged in the explosions.

“Because of citizens like the one who notified authorities of this potential deadly bomb, the streets of Adhamiyah remain a safe and prosperous place for residents,” said Lt. Col. John Digiambattista, operations officer and a spokesperson for the 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. “This shows that the residents of this once volatile neighborhood will not tolerate those actions any longer.” Source Link
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Bombing and foreign fighter recruiting ring stopped (Baghdad)

MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq
http://www.mnf-iraq.com
703.343.8790

Press Release A080809a-276
August 9, 2008

Bombing and foreign fighter recruiting ring stopped (Baghdad)
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed two terrorists and detained 14 suspects while targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq networks in central and northern parts of the country Friday and Saturday.

Coalition forces killed two armed terrorists Friday during the first of two operations targeting an alleged AQI agent who recruits Iraqis and foreigners to join the terrorist group. After surveillance teams positively identified armed terrorists meeting near Muqdadiyah, about 90 kilometers northeast of Baghdad, Coalition forces followed two men who left the site and engaged them, killing both. They discovered weapons, a military-style assault vest, pistol belt and grenade with the terrorists. During a follow-on operation Saturday, Coalition forces captured the alleged recruiter and two other suspects who had also been at the meeting. The wanted man is also reportedly involved in bombing attacks and has allegedly provided falsified documents to AQI members fleeing Diyala province during the current crackdown on terrorists there.

Friday near Bayji, about 160 kilometers south of Mosul, Coalition forces detained two suspected AQI terrorists believed to support the foreign terrorist network. Saturday, Coalition forces conducted a follow-on operation targeting a wanted man, who identified himself to them during the raid. He is assessed to be an AQI facilitator who falsified passports and identification documents for foreign terrorists entering Iraq. Coalition forces detained two additional suspects in the operation. Another Saturday operation targeting members of the AQI foreign terrorist facilitation network in Mosul turned up two suspects.

A precision operation Friday in Hamam al-Alil, just south of Mosul, netted a man wanted for his suspected support for AQI senior leaders and their financial infrastructure. The man admitted to the force that he associates with several alleged AQI leaders. He has also reportedly helped in the construction of bombs used to attack Iraqis and security forces.

Coalition forces conducted a precision operation in Baghdad Saturday and captured a wanted man who is believed to be part of an extremist group that has aligned itself with AQI to recruit and conduct attacks. Just south of the city, Coalition forces detained two suspected terrorists Saturday who are reportedly part of AQI’s network in the Southern Belt around Baghdad, which targets Iraqi civilians.

“Those who support terrorism will be targeted, whether they be recruiters, financiers, or those who carry out the attacks”, said Maj. John C. Hall, MNF-I spokesman. Source Link
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Tags: Good News (Iraq) //