Photo By Master Sgt. Matthew Keeler | A child smiles with the toys given to her by the soldiers and airmen from Iraqi Kids...... read more read more
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Smiling school children, gathered and stood in the shade of a cool autumn morning, and formed orderly lines to enter through the East Entry Control Point at Joint Base Balad, Iraq.
More than 125 local children participated in Iraqi Kids Day, Nov. 6, at the H6 Recreation Center on JBB, Iraq.
The children ranged in age from five to around twelve. Each child was assigned a mentor and enjoyed an array of activities such as soccer, dancing, coloring, beanbag toss, a small pool, videogames, and ping-pong.
“We want to make a safe and secure environment for the kids to come in and just be kids,” said Air Force Capt. Daniel Coleman, executive officer, 332nd Expeditionary Medical Group, and project officer for Iraqi Kids Day.
The response of volunteers was overwhelming; more than 250 service members volunteered, and more than 100 had to be turned away.
“This was kind of a way for me, and for many of the volunteers to play with our own children vicariously. It’s a good way for service members at JBB to do something relaxing away from our military mission,” said Coleman.
Iraqi Kids Day began two years ago as a medical clinic for local children to receive basic medical care and safety lessons. It evolved over time into the event it is today, which is a fun and positive way to bring together Americans and Iraqis.
“I think it’s an opportunity for change because if we interact with the children, then they can see our culture and we can see their culture,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2, Darlene Pittman, G1 Plans and Operations Officer, 103rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) of Helena, Ala., a volunteer for the event.
“These are good kids. They’re just like American kids in a lot of ways, but different in some ways. They’re better at sharing the toys,” said Spc. Michael Peruciel, 3rd Sustainment Brigade, 103rd Sustainment Command, (Expeditionary), of Queens, N.Y.
Iraqi Kids Day has been held nearly every month since its inception with the exception of Ramadan.
“I think this event was very successful,” said Coleman, adding his appreciation for the enthusiasm of the volunteers.
“I think it’s awesome; a little piece of home. Now I have a personal connection with the people here. Everyone should volunteer at least once on their tour,” said Pittman.
Iraqi Kids Day offers service members at JBB a chance to interact with local children in a fun, safe environment while giving the future generation of Iraqis tangible, personal memories of the American presence here as U.S. forces progress with the Drawdown.
| Date Taken: | 11.06.2010 |
| Date Posted: | 11.09.2010 12:49 |
| Story ID: | 59753 |
| Location: | JOINT BASE BALAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 121 |
| Downloads: | 5 |
This work, Iraqi Kids Day, by SFC Zane Craig, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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