AFN-Iraq celebrates final broadcast

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

09.23.2011

Story by Sgt. Vannessa Josey 

362nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

BAGHDAD - American Forces Network Radio – Iraq, the radio network run by U.S. troops deployed to Baghdad, plans to fill its final day of broadcasting in support of Operation New Dawn with events and special guest appearances by service members, U.S. civilians, Iraqi counterparts and several surprise guests here, Sept. 23.

“I think our legacy is that lasting relationship between us and the Iraqi people. As we depart, they will still have a piece of us,’” said Staff Sgt. Aaron Salinas, non-commissioned officer in charge and unit movement officer for the 206th Broadcast Operation Detachment, the Texas based unit that makes up AFN-Iraq.

“There will be an Iraqi saying, ‘I grew up listening to AFN radio,'” said Salinas.

To celebrate this legacy, the AFN-I Radio team will start the festivities at 5 a.m. and will rock until midnight. The all-day broadcast will feature the final "Morning PT with Prickel and Townsend" and "Midday Getaway with Staff Sgt. Bradley Ruffin" radio programs.

“We intend to broadcast all day on the 23rd, and we’ll have some guest appearances,” said Lt. Col. Freddie A. Mack, commander of AFN - Iraq. “Some folks will come in and talk to the troops. We’re going to have a good time on the radio.”

“We intend to have a unit barbecue right outside the studio and just have fun and relax for a little bit on the last day of radio,” said Mack.

To join in the festivities, log on to AFN-Iraq’s Facebook page to send a shout-out to the disc jockeys or make a song request.

“I would like to thank the fans of AFN-I for sharing comments, notes, and posting all of the comments we have received,” said Mack. “It gives some comfort in knowing what we are doing has an impact; knowing our mission is being accomplished.”

• Date Taken: 09.23.2011
• Date Posted: 09.23.2011 10:02
• Story ID: 77492
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ