AR RAMADI, Iraq - Missions only happen to fulfill a legitimate need, said a Provincial Reconstruction Team member. The mission Oct. 8 was two-fold: introduce a new team member to an Iraqi judge and also follow up on a case to see that justice is going to be served for a Marine killed in Al Anbar previously.

According to Marine Col. Brett Barkey, a lawyer serving on the Provincial Reconstruction Team here, only necessary missions happen because the risk of life is never taken lightly.

Battery A, 3rd Battalion, 157th Field Artillery, Colorado Army National Guard, 115th Fires Brigade, based at Camp Ramadi, helps make the PRT's missions happen.

They not only are responsible for providing safe transportation to the meetings for the PRT, but also providing dismounted security to ensure they stay safe while outside the wire. They serve much like bodyguards for PRT members.

During the pre-mission brief Oct. 8, Barkey spoke to the troops to remind them how much the PRT appreciates their service and also wanted to extend his gratitude and concern for a Battery A Soldier who was wounded on a previous mission.

The mission on Oct. 8 into the city of Ar Ramadi was successful and quiet for the troops and PRT members. Everyone accomplished what they needed to and returned safely to the forward operating base without receiving any enemy contact.

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