Iraqi, U.S. Forces provide locals with medical, dental care

Photo By Spc. Laura Bigenho | An Iraqi man helps his daughter stay cool in front of the air conditioner while waiting for his wife inside the dental clinic, which was part of a cooperative medical engagement held near Camp Victory on Aug. 24. Over 500 patients were seen and 27 dental operations were conducted during the CME, which was a joint effort primarily led by Iraqi forces, backed by the U.S.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

09.02.2007

Story by Spc. Laura Bigenho 

28th Public Affairs Detachment

By Army Spc. Laura M. Bigenho
28th Public Affairs Detachment

CAMP VICTORY, Iraq - Iraq and U.S. forces sent a message to local Iraqis during a cooperative medical engagement held near Camp Victory Aug. 24.

The CME targeted Iraqis living in nearby Iraqi Family Village and was held by Task Force Vigilant, Task Force 62, a medical brigade from Fort Lewis, Wash. and 210th Brigade Support Battalion, along with other units provided medical care.

"The Soldiers of Task Force Vigilant can be very proud of their efforts in setting the conditions under which over 20 Iraqi doctors, dentists, and medics could successfully treat over 600 local residents," said Army Maj. Celestino Perez, commander of TF Vigilant.

"This type of mission is important in being able to rebuild a bridge between the Iraqi army and U.S. Army from one side with the Iraqi civilians on the other side," said Brig. Gen. Mahde, surgeon, Iraqi Ground Forces Command. "Through the good cooperation of many American units and the (IGFC), we are able to provide good healthcare to all the people of Iraqi Family Village."

Mahde was one of several doctors on site providing medical care to patients. According to Army Col. Patrick Sargent, commander, TF 62, the operation was led by the Iraqis with the United States playing a smaller role as coordinators.

"The interesting thing about this is we actually have Iraqi army physicians and some physicians from the Ministry of Health supporting this operation," Sargent said. "They are in the lead. We just provided the location and security."

Doctors and dentists worked diligently throughout the day, seeing more than 500 patients and performing 27 dental operations. In addition to receiving medical care, each villager departed with goods – from bookbags and school supplies for the kids to clothing and hygiene items for the adults.

"There are a lot families here who don't have jobs and can't afford to purchase many items, so they came here," chief of IFV, Yahya Murad Mahmood, said

Mahde said he believes the CME and future operations will do more than provide a quick fix to the Iraqis' short term needs.

"Future Iraqi endeavors like this operation will move us ever closer to a strong, unified Iraq," said Perez.

• Date Taken: 09.02.2007
• Date Posted: 09.02.2007 05:29
• Story ID: 12098
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ