KIRKUK, Iraq - The Kirkuk Combined Security Forces also known as the “Golden Lions,” made up of Iraqi army, police, Peshmurga and “Battle Boar” soldiers of 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, out of Fort Stewart, Ga., along with the famous Kirkuk lion mascot “Kirkuki,” made a visit to a school in Chemen, near Kirkuk, Iraq, July 24.
The purpose of the visit was to deliver school supplies and stuffed animals, donated by U.S. citizens as a part of Operation School Supplies, to more than 40 Iraqi children.
“We want to thank all of you for what you brought to our children it means so much to them,” said Sukar Arif Abus, the school’s principal, to the “Golden Lions.”
According to Sgt. Mohammed Socat Azzep Kamil, the “Golden Lions” senior platoon sergeant, doing humanitarian-aid drops helps the children and also builds a better country.
The first focus for any country is the child, if a child is not taken care of the country’s future will not be good, he explained.
“Which is why we are very honored to be helping the children because it makes our future better,” said Mohammed.
He continued in saying the progress the “Golden Lions” are making in the villages can already be seen.
The children were dancing and clapping with “Kirkuki” and talking to the “Golden Lions” during the entire mission.
“We will be doing missions like this one much more often,” said Sgt. Mohammed. “It makes me and my soldiers happy to see the children smiling.”