Capt. Ryan Avila
4th Brigade Combat Team PAO
BAGHDAD --With tight rings of security circling the city, Iraqi citizens took to the streets the morning of Dec. 15 to vote for the first full-term government since the fall of Saddam Hussein.
Iraqi Police are providing close-in protection at polling stations; Iraqi public Order Battalions and Iraqi Army Soldiers are providing the next level of protection; and more Iraqi Soldiers and Coalition Forces are in a third ring of troops. They will also provide a quick-reaction force if needed.
"Today, the people of Iraq will elect the government that will lead their country through the next four years," said Maj. Ross Coffman, 4th Brigade Combat Team executive officer. "We are America's team helping Iraqi's team build a lasting democracy."
Shortly after polling sites opened in Baghdad, a rocket landed in the International Zone, damaging a vehicle and injuring one Marine and two civilian contractors. The wounded were treated at the site for minor injuries and released.
Polling stations throughout south Baghdad reported a constant flow of voters.
"In our area of operations, all polling sites are open and the Iraqi Security Forces are leading the security effort," Coffman said.
Early reports indicated voter turnout is higher than the numbers seen on for the Constitutional Referendum vote on Oct. 15.