Iraqi security forces, coalition give humanitarian aid to needy

Photo By 1st Sgt. Bronco Suzuki | A humanitarian drop brings food, blankets, heaters, and cooking oil to displaced people in the Baghdad's Diyala neighborhood Jan. 31. Units involved in the drop were 2nd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, the 8th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Division and the 4th Brigade,1st Iraqi Army Division. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuki, 2nd BCT, 2nd Inf. Div.)  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

02.02.2007

Courtesy Story

Multi-National Corps Iraq Public Affairs

By Spc. Courtney Marulli
2nd BCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq — Iraqi security forces distributed much-needed supplies to refugees, with help from 2nd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Jan. 31. Distributed in Baghdad's Diyala neighborhood were blankets, heaters, food and cooking oil.

Capt. Dave Eastburn, Battery B commander, said the 2-17th organized the project and arranged for the supplies to arrive, but the Iraqi troops and national policemen carried out the operation.

While Soldiers from 2-17th and members of 4th Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division pulled security, Soldiers of 8th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Division distributed the supplies and successfully completed the mission.

"I think all the Iraqi civilians realize we helped them out a great deal today and that's a success," said Eastburn, a native of Columbus, Ohio.

Soldiers in 2-17th were approached by local residents, both men women, who wanted to communicate their needs. Some of the women showed their children's government cards, so the Soldiers could see their photographs. A few Soldiers showed pictures of their family in return.

The people waited patiently as the supplies were unloaded from two large trucks and were pleased with the toys handed out to their children.

Approximately 1,000 families were given supplies.

Eastburn said he meets with the Diyala Neighborhood Advisory Council to discuss projects with its leaders. One such leader is known as "Madhi," who Eastburn has worked with on several projects.

The refugees are important to her, Eastburn said, as she likes to ensure they are taken care of because they don't have anything.

"She likes to put a coalition forces face to things, so they know we're here to help," Eastburn said.

He added it also lets the people know that the coalition forces aren't just here for security, but also to work side-by-side with the Iraqi security forces.

Since she represents a predominately poor population, Madhi has the respect of the people she represents because they know she is in charge and that she'll get them what they need, Eastburn explained.

"We got a very positive response from the people there," Eastburn said. "They're grateful for both the coalition and the help we're providing."

Eastburn said the people know that Madhi has access to coalition forces and Iraqi security forces, helping to ensure the local residents get help, when needed.

"I have a great partner with Madhi, because she comes up with the ideas of how to help," Eastburn said. "She really knows the importance of having a coalition and the Iraqi security forces face to it."

• Date Taken: 02.02.2007
• Date Posted: 02.02.2007 10:00
• Story ID: 9035
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ