Spc. Jay Venturini
316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command Public Affairs Office
LOGISTICS SUPPORT AREA ANACONDA, Iraq – One of the main goals in theater is to offer the Iraqi people the means to provide for themselves. One of the ways coalition forces assist in this effort is by providing jobs to local Iraqis on military installations.
One of the many jobs offered to Iraqis here is beautification projects and performing odd jobs around the camp.
"They do pretty much anything," said Airman 1st Class Justin Williams, local national escort for Detachment 1, 332nd Expeditionary Mission Support Group. "When we get requests for support we know that our guys will get the job done. They work quickly and efficiently."
The Iraqis have taken on projects such as painting the Black Jack Education Center and clearing the ground of trash and plants to make way for a new helipad at the Air Force Theater Hospital. They have also done numerous beautification missions at the different housing areas and along the roads.
"They have done many great services around LSA (Logistics Support Area) Anaconda," said Airman 1st Class Justin Offett, local national escort for the Det. 1, 332nd EMSG. "They are a great asset to have."
The Iraqis work six days a week for $10 per day, which is more than enough to live on in the local villages. Along with providing valuable services here the Iraqis are also gaining other skills, such as learning English, which makes them candidates to become interpreters.
Another benefit of having Iraqis working on post is forming stronger ties to the local villages as we.
"I like working for the Americans," one Iraqi said. "It's a good job, I make good money and I'm learning to speak English."
"Most of my family works on the camp," said another. "The money is very important for me and my family."
Through working with each other everyday the Iraqis and their escorts have developed a great relationship, which makes the work day more enjoyable for everyone.
"I love working with the Iraqis," said Williams. "There is nothing holding us back from being friends with them. We've never had any problems with them. They are some great people."
With Iraq moving closer to self sufficiency coalition forces throughout theater have been making it easier for Iraqis to make a good, honest daily wage to support themselves and their families.
"We are definitely making a difference in their lives," said Offett. "They love coming to work and (they) get the job done."
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