Iraqi citizens witness monumental day

Photo By Pfc. Evan Loyd | Iraqi Staff Maj. Gen. Ali, commander 17th Iraqi army division, explains the security procedures for the area around the polling site in Yusifiyah to Col. Pat White, of Apple Valley, Calif., commander 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Multi-National Division - Baghdad, during the provincial elections, Jan. 31.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

01.31.2009

Story by Pfc. Evan Loyd 

2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division

By Pfc. Evan Loyd
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division

BAGHDAD – The citizens of Mahmudiyah Qada went safely to the election polls Jan. 31 to vote during the provincial election. There were no reports of serious violence in the qada. The violence free election was a monumental effort and achievement for the Iraqi security forces of Mahmudiyah.

The 17th Iraqi army division and Iraqi police were responsible for the security operations in the area with Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers in a supporting role.

Iraqi Staff Maj. Gen. Ali, commander, 17th Iraqi army division, accompanied by Col. Pat White, of Apple Valley, Calif., commander, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, MND-B, while he conducted a site tour of the Mahmudiyah Qada polling stations on Election Day.

Ali checked each of the site's security from the outside perimeter watching Iraqi Security Forces using handheld metal detectors that were provided by Coalition Forces. He offered words of encouragement and guidance to his soldiers protecting the polling stations.

"You are doing a great service to the people of our country by making it safe for them to come and vote," said Ali. "Try to make sure it is as easy as possible for the people to get their say in the vote."

Despite the obvious difference between the polling sites in the congested cities and outlying areas Ali was greeted with purple fingers and giant smiles everywhere he went.

"I am proud to have had the chance to vote for my leaders," said one local Iraqi as he showed off his purple finger.

The ISF provided the Iraqi citizens with an environment that was free and safe in order to cast their votes.

"It is really a very democratic demonstration," said Saad Tuaima. "The Americans had the gratitude of laying down the democracy in Iraq."

• Date Taken: 01.31.2009
• Date Posted: 01.31.2009 18:39
• Story ID: 29498
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ