KIRKUK, Iraq - During the Islamic month of fasting, known as Ramadan, participating Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn until the sun sets, after the sun sets then they break their fast and eat large meals throughout the night with family.
To assist Muslims, during Ramadan, soldiers of Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division out of Fort Stewart, Ga., along with Iraqi police from1st Battalion Emergency Services Unit, and local leadership, delivered food, water and school supplies to the village of Wahid Huzarian near Kirkuk, Iraq, Aug. 17.
To ensure the families who needed assistance the most received it the leadership of Delta Company and the ESU partnered with the village leadership to identify more than 100 families in need.
U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Justin K. Shaw, a platoon leader with Delta Company, oversaw the humanitarian aid mission and said he was impressed the most by his partner’s actions and genuine interest in their community.
“The ESU proved their capabilities to the leadership of Delta Company and the community with their organization and willingness to help,” he said.
As soon as Delta Company and the ESU began passing out aid to the families the ESU immediately began helping anyone who was struggling to carry the 100-pounds of food and water, said 2nd Lt. Shaw, a native of Dothan, Ala.
A Delta Company platoon sergeant, Sgt. 1st Class Nick Flowers, who also oversaw the mission, agreed with 2nd Lt. Shaw and his platoon and they partners also build a lasting relationship with the community.
“By delivering food and supplies during the month of Ramadan we provided aid to the residents in need and fostered a relationship with the residents,” said the Persion, Fla. native, Sgt. 1st Class Flowers.
In order to further build on their relationship with the residents of Wahid Huzarian Delta Company and the ESU has planned several more humanitarian aid drops for the community.