Courtesy Story

By Spc. Barbara Ospina
1st BCT Public Affairs

KIRKUK, Iraq " Soldiers from the Civil Affairs Team (CAT) A, 451st Civil Affairs Battalion, joined forces with the Kirkuk Police on January 9, on a patrol to help the officers build a stronger relationship with the community, a relationship that will remain steady for their country's future.

The day's mission began with a short but direct meeting with police leaders, where the Civil Affairs Soldiers explained to the police what a good relationship with the citizens of Kirkuk would encompass.

Much coordination and planning came to life when the Soldiers rolled out of the Kirkuk Police Station convoying with two police trucks, escorting 10 officers, two trash trucks, and a bulldozer.

As the trash was cleaned off the streets, Iraqi Police, standing in the back of a patrol truck, started handing out candy and a variety of toys to children.

As the word of candy and toys traveled through the neighborhood, wide-eyed kids came running from every direction, smiles flashing as they walked off with their new prized possession. With their hands flying up in the air in hope of not getting passed by, they yelled words like "Shakah-latah" meaning chocolate.

"After about five minutes you could tell the Iraqi Police were happy interacting with the kids," Betancourt smiled. "The kids also became more comfortable asking the police."

While the candy and toy frenzy was going on, half of the police entourage walked through the underprivileged but thankful neighborhood talking to the residents and discussing any concerns they might have.

"A large concern among the people is their trash is not being picked up as often as it should," Betancourt said. "So the schedule is going to be revised by the police."

While relationships were being built, the police also put out important information that they believe every citizen should be aware of. The police used loud speakers in their trucks to play messages advertising Kirkuk emergency numbers.

"Most citizens get their emergency numbers off of television, which is a Baghdad only number," Betancourt stated. "When they call, all they're told is they can't help them, therefore we need to make sure they have a correct number to get help when it's needed."

The day's efforts were only a piece of the overall plan that began about a week prior with Soldiers conducting surveys throughout the Kirkuk area to achieve a realistic grasp on the community's view of the police and problems throughout their neighborhoods.

The surveys showed that the once neglected community, although thankful for their new and improved local security forces, desired more personal interaction with their police force.

"The people feel that the police are not spending any time talking to them," said Staff Sgt. Ignacio Betancourt, the team Sgt. for CAT A. "Talking with the people helps build their trust."

On that note the planning and building began.

The Soldiers addressed the issues and concerns by relaying the information to the police for resolution. During a visit on January 6, the people raised the issue that their power lines were not working well and that their trash was continuously building up. The power lines were fixed and functioning properly within hours of their visit.

In collaboration with this recent outreach to the community, businesses have come together and will be making large banners showing they are against violence.

When all was said and done the mission was a success, as citizens are starting to stand tall in support of one another and their views.

Associated Images

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