2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. Cdr. meets with mayor, discusses Mahmahdiyah's future

Photo By Spc. Kelly McDowell | Col. Todd Ebel, commander 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Mayor of Mahmahdiyah and Lt. Col. Tom Kunk, commander 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, look out over the town and discuss future projects to improve Mahmahdiyah for the good of the community.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

05.08.2006

Courtesy Story

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BAGHDAD - In an effort to continue communication and cooperation between local governments, Iraqi police, Iraqi army and Multi-National Division " Baghdad leaders visited the mayor of Mahmahdiyah May 3 to discuss the future of the city.

Col. Todd Ebel, commander, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, accompanied by his projects, information and civil affairs officers, joined the mayor and the Iraqi police chief of Mahmahdiyah to brainstorm new projects and information operations to benefit the local citizens and Iraqi Security Forces.

Many projects were discussed, such as power, sewage, water flow and improvements to the surrounding community, ranging from refurbishing schools to recruiting more police.

"Seven months ago when (2nd BCT) first arrived, no contractor would come to Mahmahdiyah. When I arrived, there were only 20 projects throughout south Baghdad," Ebel said. "Today, we have more than 220 projects being planned or worked on right now."

In the past seven months, the brigade's Soldiers helped complete such projects as the QaaQaa and SheeSheeBar water treatment facilities, multiple schools, road repairs and the rebuilding of the Mahmahdiyah Iraqi police station.

"It takes time," Ebel said. "Day by day, the improvements are being seen throughout Mahmahdiyah. I feel it is my duty to help in whatever it is the city needs to keep stable and prosperous."

The future of Mahmahdiyah is bright for the local nationals as they see more improvements to their area become a reality with the help of MND-B and the local Iraqi government.

Current projects in Mahmahdiyah include refurbishing an emergency room, five electrical networks slated for repair and the reconstruction of the local sewer system.

"I am very happy for the visitation today," the mayor said. "I am willing to help and cooperate with (2nd BCT) when it comes to the security of Mahmhadiyah. We are sending a clear message to the people that the Iraqi government is active."

• Date Taken: 05.08.2006
• Date Posted: 05.08.2006 13:48
• Story ID: 6295
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ