Courtesy Photo | Local Iraqis wave as they rebuild their local market in the Task Force Gold's area of...... read more read more
Spc. Anthony Hutchins
926th Engineer Brigade
BAGHDAD – Task Force Gold, considered a turning point for Operation Iraqi Freedom, focuses its efforts to revitalize the war torn and impoverished neighborhoods of the Sadr City District in northern Baghdad.
Beginning in May, the mission of Task Force Gold is to bring peace to the Sadr City District and improve the quality of life for its residents.
In only a few short weeks Task Force Gold has achieved astounding results. Iraqi citizens give the Jamilla Market rebirth as Iraqis rebuild their shops with the assistance and backing of the 926th Engineer Brigade and the Government of Iraq.
Through routine interaction with the local population, coalition forces create a safer area.
"The people see that we are here dealing with them honestly and that we want to help," said Capt. Darrick Wright, 926th Eng. Bde., MND-B, of Task Force Gold.
The revitalized market has brought about a change in an area which was once hostile, added Darrick.
Streets, once filled with garbage and raw sewage, are now being cleaned up. The Iraqi people in the area show a keen desire to help themselves, to better their situation, and live a normal life.
"The Iraqi business owners have the courage to return to their shops," according to Col. Jared Olsen, Task Force Gold commander.
The Government of Iraq has also provided workers who assist in cleaning and construction efforts around the Jamillia Market area, Olsen continued.
Members of the 926th Engineer Brigade spend countless hours working on the Task Force Gold projects.
The brigade commander refers to Task Force Gold as "our number one priority."
Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Talley, commander of the 926th Eng. Bde., MND-B, often travels to Task Force Gold to review the progress being made there.
On June 4, Talley briefed Gen. David Petraeus, commander of Multi-National Force-Iraq. The generals reviewed the now revitalized streets and shops and communicated with the locals directly.
The success of Task Force Gold is dependent upon the Soldiers who risk their lives every day to bring peace and stability to the area by helping to re-build the neighborhood and by bringing economic prosperity to the merchants who live and work there, said Talley. These soldiers are dedicated to see that their mission is a success. Other commands are looking at the success of Task Force Gold and how it has brought about a new Sadr City and how it has helped a promising future for all of Iraq.
| Date Taken: | 06.29.2008 |
| Date Posted: | 06.29.2008 06:48 |
| Story ID: | 20975 |
| Location: | BAGHDAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 382 |
| Downloads: | 328 |
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