U.S. Soldiers stay in background during Referendum

Courtesy Photo | BAGHDAD -- An Iraqi Army Soldier stands guard outside a Baghdad polling site Oct. 15 as Iraqi citizens head in to vote on the Constitutional Referendum. (U.S. Army photo)  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

10.26.2005

Courtesy Story

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Pfc. Jason Jordan
1/10th Mountain Division PAO

BAGHDAD -- As nearly 10 million Iraqi citizens went to the polls to vote on the Constitutional Referendum Oct. 15, the day also marked a milestone in the Iraqi Army's growing responsibility for the nation's security.

Coalition Forces remained on call to support the Iraqi Army if needed during the Referendum.

"Every time we go out, we try to stay prepared," said Sgt. Justin Kerns, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division. "We don't know if things are going to happen, but if they do, we are ready for them."

Although the day began quietly, the Soldiers remained alert for anything.

"It is always the quiet days when bad things happen," said Sgt. Byron Evans, 2nd Bn., 22nd Inf.

Security for the day was at its highest, and although vehicular traffic was not allowed near polling sites, thousands of citizens"many of them walking several miles'showed up to cast their vote in 1/10th's area of operations.

"It was truly gratifying to be out here today," said 1st Lt. Wesley Willard of 1/10th's 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. "I feel as though we have positively impacted this country."

The Iraqi Army did their job at the polling sites while the Coalition Forces patrolled outer perimeters, and the day passed mostly without incident.

"The Iraqi Army really performed well, manning their positions and providing security," said Spc. Brandon Castleberry, 1/11th ACR. "They did a good job of keeping the elections safe from incident."

Soldiers said Oct. 15 was one more step forward in providing a free and democratic Iraq for the people.

"Of course this is a big step forward," Willard said. "This is a significant step toward the rebuilding of Iraq."

• Date Taken: 10.26.2005
• Date Posted: 10.26.2005 13:36
• Story ID: 3484
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ