by Pfc. Paul David Ondik
4th BCT PAO, 101st Abn. Div.
FOB LOYALTY, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers from 414th Civil Affairs Battalion, along with Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, worked together with elements of the 9th Iraqi Army Division and local Iraqi leadership in Baghdad's Adhamiyah neighborhood to provide free medical attention to residents Sept. 5-12.
The operation provided aid to approximately 500 local residents, many of whom would have otherwise went without desperately needed medical attention.
"We just did a major clearing operation in this sector, so we're just trying to provide a little relief," said Capt. Brian Wilson, medical operations planner, 414th CA Bn. "Access to health care has been difficult. So together with the Iraqi army, we're trying to alleviate some of that suffering."
Each unit involved was tasked to complete certain objectives, with the overall mission of setting a standard for future operations conducted by Iraqis, independent of Coalition Forces.
"The idea was to do it in conjunction with the Iraqi forces, which we've managed to do," said Maj. Greg Brewer, MND-B medical planner.
The positive effects on the collective psyche of the community of having Iraqi army soldiers actively diagnosing and treating locals, Sunni and Shia alike, is priceless in an environment where the fear of sectarian corruption in the government meets the reality of sectarian violence in the street.
"I am a doctor in camouflage," said Col. Nabil, engineering commandant, 9th IAD. "This is our duty. We can help these people, step by step."
Nabil said that the people in Adhamiyah were grateful for the help of Coalition Forces.
The medical operations, which took place on Sept. 5, 9 and 12, in three separate locations in Adhamiyah, drew more patients at each outing.
"The Iraqi doctors and Iraqi medics added a lot to this," said Capt. Darin Harper, medical operations officer, 4th BCT. "We'll continue to do this as part of the 'build' phase in Adhamiyah."
The last day of the operation opitimized the importance of Iraqi involvement.
"Today was our best one yet because we had optimal cooperation from the Iraqi army. They pretty much ran the show," Wilson said.