Iraqi security force ensures security in Mada'in Qada elections

Courtesy Photo | Iraqi Staff Maj. Gen. Quassim Maliki, commander, 9th Iraqi Army Division, surveys security measures at a polling station in the town of Kanasa during Election Day, Jan. 31. The 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, partnered with the 9th IA Div. for a successful provincial elections in the Mada'in Qada.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

02.02.2009

Courtesy Story

2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division

By Spc. Kevin Holden
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Thanks to the successful security efforts of the 9th Iraqi Army Division and Iraqi police forces, the citizens of the Mada'in Qada voted peacefully at the Election Day polls Jan. 31.

The Iraqi security forces had the lead responsibility in the day's election security with Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers in a supporting role.

This was the first election in the largely agrarian Mada'in Qada in four years, and many of the citizens went to the polls to elect their provincial representatives, who will shape the course of their country's emerging democracy.

Iraqi Staff Maj. Gen. Qassim, commander, 9th IA Div. toured the polling sites to inspect the soldiers and security.

While at one inspection site, he met with Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Eyer, of Houston, who serves as the senior enlisted advisor for 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, MND – B. The two talked to soldiers and ensured the polling site was functioning properly.

"The national police were excited to work with MND-B Soldiers and their [military] dog handlers prior to elections to provide a safe election day," said 1st Lt. Mathew Kabat, of Grand Rapids, Mich., assigned to Company C, 4th Battalion, 27 Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd BCT, 1st Armd. Div.

The day's successful election followed several weeks of planning, rehearsals and site checks by the Iraqi and MND-B Soldiers. It illustrates the increased professionalism and confidence Iraqi citizens have in the ISF.

"These elections are a significant step in the process of rebuilding Iraq and the people look forward to a better future as the government of Iraq provides the citizens an environment to vote for new leaders," said Staff Sgt. Joel Townsend, of Little Falls, Minn., assigned to the Striker K-9 unit, 2nd BCT, 1st Armd. Div., MND-B.

• Date Taken: 02.02.2009
• Date Posted: 02.02.2009 03:37
• Story ID: 29521
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ