Camp Bucca to be transferred to Iraqis for commercial use

Courtesy Photo | Second Lt. Matthew Fumagalli answers questions from members of the Skyline Arabia Company during the Open House tour of the Dining Facility. (Photo by: Sgt. Jeremy Forrest)  

CAMP BUCCA, IRAQ

10.23.2010

Courtesy Story

3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

Story by: 2nd Lt. Matthew Fumagalli

CAMP BUCCA, Iraq - The soldiers assigned to 3rd Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Advise and Assist Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, stationed in Camp Bucca, are preparing to execute one of the biggest base transfers in southern Iraq to date.

These soldiers are working with the local government to facilitate a transition from military use to commercial use, stimulating the economic growth in this vital area.

Located within five miles of the main Iraqi port of Umm Qasr, Bucca is poised to become a major industrial center supporting the nearby port because of its location, natural resources, and existing infrastructure. Bucca is one of the few bases to be transferred to the Government of Iraq specifically intended for commercial use instead of military application.

The leaders of Bucca have leveraged their existing relationships with the Mayor of Umm Qasr and local businessmen to ensure the base provides the desired effect on local commerce.

A committee, lead by the Mayor of Umm Qasr, was appointed by the Provincial Governor to follow-up on the initial agreement and tasked with establishing the framework for a smooth transfer. This committee meets weekly with the leaders of Camp Bucca, commercial interests, and contractors to coordinate the training, resources, and the commitments necessary to maximize the economic potential of this transfer.

“The best way we can ensure future growth and success in [Umm Qasr] is by aligning Iraqi and corporate interests,” said Maj. Brent Novak, of Farmington Hills, Mich., base deputy commander, 3rd STB, 3rd AAB, 4th Inf. Div.

A recent open house brought together the U.S. State Department Provincial Reconstruction Team, the governor of Basra province, the mayor of Umm Qasr, and three multi-national companies for a tour of the facilities that will be transferred to the Iraqi government in the near future.

“During the meeting with the provincial governor, it was clear that our partnership is strong and there is a clear vision for the future of Camp Bucca,” said Lt. Col. William Edwards, commander, 3rd STB, whose battalion is responsible for overseeing the base transfer.

The transfer of Camp Bucca demonstrates what close cooperation between U.S. forces, Government of Iraq, and commercial interests can accomplish on behalf of the Iraqi people.

“It is an honor for us to be a part of this project,” said Edwards.” We look forward to seeing it through with our Iraqi partners.”

• Date Taken: 10.23.2010
• Date Posted: 11.15.2010 03:45
• Story ID: 60135
• Location: CAMP BUCCA, IQ