Swift patrol boat 304 enters the port here Aug. 7. The Iraqi navy accepted control of Swift boats 304 and 306 Aug. 13.

The Iraqi navy accepted Swift-class Patrol boats 304 and 306 from the U.S. Navy during a handover ceremony Aug. 13 at Umm Qasr, Iraq.

Saturday’s ceremony was the culmination of months of effort for both the U.S. and Iraqi Navies.

“I’m extremely happy for the Iraqi navy,” said U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Kelvin Dixon, director of Iraq Training and Advising Mission-Navy and Marines from Rockaway, N.J. “The delivery of the U.S. built Swift Patrol Boats 304 and 306 increases the Iraqi navy’s capability to effectively patrol and defend their territorial waters and critical oil infrastructure.”

“The Iraqis have really done an outstanding job with the limited assets they had,” said Cmdr. Quintin “QB” Bell, commanding officer of the ITAM-N/M at Umm Qasr from Augusta, Ga. “The addition of these two very-capable patrol boats will greatly enhance their ability to carry out their assigned missions.”

Iraqi navy commander, Rear Adm. Ali, said that the delivery was an important day for the Iraqi navy, and he thanked everyone for making the day happen, according to Bell.

Construction began on 304 and 306 in mid-2010 in Morgan City, La. Upon completion, the 35-meter patrol boats began their journey to Iraq in June with a month-long voyage from Houston to Bahrain on the roll-on/roll-off ship MV Cape Trinity. The U.S. Navy offloaded the vessels in Bahrain and sailed them to Umm Qasr under the U.S. flag.

Swift Patrol Boats 304 and 306 arrived in Umm Qasr Aug. 7 and underwent final checks and sea trials facilitated by Naval Sea Systems Command and ITAM-N/M engineers. U.S. engineers and advisors validated the boats were seaworthy and the crews were qualified prior to the handover.

After U.S. and Iraqi navy leadership signed required documents, U.S. and Iraqi sailors lowered the U.S. flag and raised the Iraqi flag on the vessels to complete the handover.

The patrol boats provide capability for a variety of missions including maritime surveillance and reconnaissance as well as vessel boarding and search and seizure. The new vessels raise the Iraqi navy’s patrol boat force to five of 12 ordered. The remaining Swift boats are expected to arrive in Iraq before 2013.

The Iraqi navy is responsible for protecting off-shore oil infrastructure, territorial waters, Umm Qasr, and checkpoints in the surrounding area. Currently, the Iraqi fleet boasts 65 vessels, and more than 3,700 sailors and Marines, conducting more than 50 weekly patrols.

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Story by Maj. Brandon Lingle

Iraqi navy sailors secure a Kuwaiti coast guard vessel during a joint exercise in the Persian Gulf, July 25. Photo by Pvt. Andrew Slovensky

On a warm morning over calm waters, the horizon is lined with small fishing boats. A Kuwaiti coast guard cutter discovers an Iraqi fisherman operating illegally in Kuwait’s territorial waters and the crew detains him. The Iraqi navy arrives to take custody of the apprehended fisherman and return him to friendlier seas.

That was the scenario played out by a joint training exercise of the Iraqi navy and Kuwaiti coast guard in the Persian Gulf, July 25.

This and other exercises conducted since 2008 are the legacy of the Khawr Abd Allah Protocol, an agreement signed between Kuwait and Iraq to ensure the security of territorial waters in the Gulf.

U.S. Navy sailors with Iraqi Training and Advisory Mission-Navy in Umm Qasr have been hard at work training their Iraqi navy counterparts to be seaworthy.

Until recently, the Iraqi training had been planned and coordinated by ITAM-N. This exercise was the first entirely orchestrated by Iraqi and Kuwaiti forces, while the U.S. Navy were merely observers, said Lt. Cmdr. Aaron Hoff, U.S. liaison to the Kuwaiti coast guard, who watched with ITAM-N operations officers from aboard the deck of an Iraqi patrol boat.

“We’re here for moral support or in case they have any questions,” said Hoff.

Hoff said exercises like this are the fruit of an effort by ITAM-N to prepare Iraqi sailors and promote cooperation across the sea and land with Kuwait. The exercise outlines a common problem with illegal fishing that faces Iraq and Kuwait, he added.

The exercise started with an officer exchange and planning meeting aboard the Iraqi patrol boat, called a swift boat. Defenders, small watercraft that accompany patrols, acted the part of the illegally fishing vessels to be apprehended by the Kuwaiti coast guard.

After the first arrest and subsequent surrender of the “fisherman” to the Iraqi navy, the two forces reversed roles. The Defenders surrounded a Kuwaiti vessel acting out the illicit fishing operation and delivered the culprits to the awaiting custody of the Kuwaiti coast guard.

Each year, the Iraqi and Kuwaiti forces plan to do more cooperative practice runs, including border meetings of officials from both nations, said Hoff.

“It’s the culmination of years of effort to encourage the Iraqi navy and Kuwaiti coast guard to improve their operability,” said Hoff. “It’s a victory.”

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Story by Pvt. Andrew Slovensky

Sgt. James Quatro -left-, a military policeman assigned to 105th Military Police Company, guides Cpl. Patrick West during a demonstration of proper stance for firing an AK-47 rifle during training at the Provincial Directorate of Police Headquarters in Mosul, Iraq, June 29, 2011.

Sgt. James Quatro enlisted in the 105th Military Police Company, New York Army National Guard, to be a part of something greater than himself.

Answering the call of duty, the military policeman recently deployed to Iraq, attached to Task Force Shield, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, in support of Operation New Dawn.

His mission involves advising and training Iraqi Security Forces in U.S. Division – North, helping to make the ISF a sustainable force for their country.

“Since I was little, I always wanted to be a soldier,” said Quatro, a native of Rochester, N.Y. “My grandfather served in Korea, and I wanted to honor him.”

Quatro trains his Iraqi counterparts on tactics to increase their overall proficiency as policemen, including counter-improvised explosive device procedures and rifle fundamentals.

“Weapons have always been my strong point, and I enjoy teaching,” said Quatro, who said he is knowledgeable on a wide variety of weapon systems.

Sgt. James Quatro -right-, a military policeman assigned to 105th Military Police Company, Task Force Shield, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, instructs Iraqi Police assigned to the 2nd and 4th Emergency Response Battalions, how to stand properly when firing their AK-47 rifles. Quatro, a native of Rochester, N.Y., also trained the policemen on how to assemble and disassemble the weapon, and basic rifle marksmanship. Photo by Spc. Angel Turner

Since arriving in Iraq, Quatro conducted two iterations of AK-47 training to help Iraqi emergency response battalions become proficient on their rifles.

“We build our relationship with ISF through this training,” said 1st Lt. Joshua Bode, a platoon leader assigned to 105th MP Company.

Serving as a team leader, Quatro is the primary instructor in his squad and is an asset to the squad and company, Bode added.

“Sgt. Quatro is an outstanding soldier and a well-disciplined [non-commissioned officer],” said Bode, a native of Buffalo, N.Y. “It’s great to be able to watch how well [Iraqi policemen] respond to his training, and you can see how well they implement what he trains when they conduct their range.”

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Pamela L. Davis, an environmental manager with the environmental section, United States Forces-Iraq engineers, and Capt. William N. Muthiora, deputy mayor, East Camp Liberty, 116th Garrison Command, United States Division-Center, point out areas of environmental concern and discuss the results from the day’s surveys at Camp Liberty, May 16. Environmental managers work closely with the different base mayors’ offices in order to track the progress of the different sites located in their areas of responsibility. Photo by Sgt. TJ Moller

The task of surveying and clearing sites which were used by more than 160,000 U.S. service members during the height of the Iraq conflict, falls on the shoulders of 12 United States Forces-Iraq environmental managers.

Environmental managers conduct surveys to identify environmental areas of concern and ensure the environment is properly maintained as U.S. forces turn more bases over to the government of Iraq, the U.S. Department of State and Office of Security Cooperation – Iraq.

Surveying sites and ensuring that the U.S. military’s presence has minimal impact on the environment is one of the main goals of the mission, said Pamela L. Davis, an environmental manager with the environmental section, USF-I engineers.

“These professionals bridge the gap between the USF-I environmental section and the divisions and bases,” said Lt. Col. Bryce J. Taggart, deputy chief for basing, facilities and environment, USF-I engineers. “Without their expertise and presence at the divisions or bases we could not do the environmental assessments that lead to the clean closure of bases.”

As troop presence decreases, environmental base closure surveys are being conducted to ensure the designated environmental compliance officer of each site – military and civilian – is complying with the environmental policies established by USF-I and are taking steps to prepare for the turnover.

There are many areas addressed during the surveys, said James A. Terrell, an environmental manager assigned to support United States Division-Center. Areas such as fuel points and hazardous waste accumulation points are looked at closely due to the possibility of spills.

Along with conducting surveys, environmental managers also offer guidance to the environmental compliance officers on regulated waste turn-in procedures. They work closely with the base mayors offices in order to track cleanup progress at bases located in their area of responsibility.

Each site must undergo a minimum of three surveys before it can be cleared for release, said Davis. Initial, preliminary and final surveys are required and additional preliminary surveys are done if needed.

If deficiencies are found during a site survey, the environmental compliance officer and environmental manager must come up with a corrective action plan, said Davis. This plan will include a brief description of the work that needs to be done, an estimated schedule for the start and completion, the resources required and the cost associated with the project.

Documenting the condition of the environment and ensuring that environmental policies are being followed during military operations is a large task.

“It’s the responsible thing to do,” said Taggart. “Returning the bases and property used by U.S. forces to the government of Iraq in a clean and usable condition is our goal.”

“We are trying to hand over clean, safe facilities that the Iraqis can use,” said Terrell. “The bases are in good shape and there should not be any problems closing them.”

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Story by Sgt. TJ Moller

An Iraqi girl sings a song to Lt. Col. Gregg Athey of 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, before a ceremony to open the Babil Museum Sunday. The museum was renovated as part of a project implemented under the U.S.-Iraqi Strategic Framework Agreement to bolster tourism in the region. The project was supported by the Babil Provincial Reconstruction team, as well as the 3rd ACR. Photo by Staff Sgt. Garrett Ralston

The Babil Provincial Reconstruction Team, with support from 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, officially opened the doors of the historic Babylon Museum Sunday.

The restoration of this historic landmark is a reflection of the U.S. Government’s commitment to implementing the Strategic Framework Agreement between the U.S. and Iraq, and these efforts will assist Iraq in preserving its heritage.

“I have been so privileged to participate in events such as these,” said Dr. Rick Roberts, of the Babil PRT. “This is the most important one of all to me. The city of Babylon is a treasure not just for the people of Iraq, but for the whole world.”

The newly renovated museum sits among the old Babylon ruins, a nearby palace, and other outbuildings that date back to the 3rd century B.C. Projects such as these are intended to preserve Iraq’s rich history and tradition for future generations.

The U.S. supported project cost nearly $300,000 and features a replica of the famous Ishtar Gate, several beautiful outdoor color murals, and architecturally appropriate front and side gates. The inside of the museum has many exhibits that bring the past to life. Some of these include a portion of a brick wall with the Lion of Babylon emblazoned on it, many backlit pictures of historical Babylon, and a model of the old layout of the city.

The efforts in Babil are intended to bolster a new basis for tourism and opportunities for the outside world to see firsthand the wonders of Iraq, both past and present.

Members of the 3rd ACR have worked with the PRT consistently to ensure the successful completion of this and many other local projects over several months.

Completion of the museum will bring new potential for Iraq’s history to reach new audiences and provide a way for its own citizens to access their heritage.

“A rehabilitated and protected Babylon site will create sustainable tourism development for the people of Babil province and ultimately, the world,” said Bob Wong, Public Diplomacy Officer for the Babil PRT.

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Story by Staff Sgt. Garrett Ralston

Soldiers of Battery A, Task Force 2-11, 2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, converse with Iraqi army soldiers while maintaining security during T-wall removal in the city of Samarra, Salah ad Din province, Iraq. Lt. Col. Andy Preston, commander, Task Force 2-11, and Lt. Col. Ghayath, director of the Samarra Joint Coordination Center, led the planning team that developed the Samarra security project, which includes the removing T-walls on the streets leading to the mosque, revitalizing markets on those streets, and installing new security equipment to maintain security for pilgrims, Samarra citizens and the mosque itself. The removal of the security barriers signified vast improvements in security for a once embattled city. U.S. Army photo by Capt. Pete Cox

Two days before the fifth anniversary of the bombing of Al Askari “Golden” Mosque, the security barriers protecting one of the holiest Shia shrines in Iraq came down.

“This is a great day for Samarra, and a great day for all of Iraq,” said Lt. Col. Andy Preston, commander, Task Force 2-11, 2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division.

“I’m happy for the citizens of Samarra, who will finally see their city restored,” said Preston, who hails from Edmond, Okla.

Following the bombing of the Al Askari Mosque, Feb. 22, 2006, U.S. and Iraqi security forces implemented enhanced security measures to protect the mosque and the Shia pilgrims who visit each year.

U.S. forces, working with Iraqi security forces, blockaded large portions of the city with “T-walls,” tall expediently emplaced concrete barriers that have become a common site across Iraq.

After Iraqis rebuilt the mosque, the T-walls remained, blocking pilgrims from the once vibrant marketplaces which colored the streets leading to the holy site.

Iraqi security forces required visitors to be escorted through blockaded T-wall channels to and from the mosque, a process which drastically impaired the tourism-based economy of Samarra.

“We have been working so hard on this project for so long, it is hard to believe it is finally happening,” said Lt. Col. Ghayath, director of the Samarra Joint Coordination Center, a site designed to synchronize the security efforts of U.S. forces, Iraqi army, Iraqi police, federal police and the Sons of Iraq.

“The people of Samarra wanted this for a very long time, and the security forces made it possible,” said Ghayath, who serves as the primary liaison between U.S. forces and the Samarra Operations Center.

The Samarra Operations Center, the command that oversees all Iraqi security forces in Samarra and much of southern Salah ad Din, developed the plan to leave T-walls around the mosque in place until a new permanent protective structure is built, said Ghayath.

ISF will maintain the re-established security in Samarra using additional police, security cameras, X-ray machines and better control of the site, he said.

Although the combined planning team primarily focused on security for pilgrims, local citizens and the mosque, other issues played an important role.

“One of the biggest problems we faced in Samarra was the lack of available employment,” Preston said. “No matter where you are in the world, people with no money and no prospects are more likely to turn to crime and violence than those who have the ability to make a way for themselves legitimately. Re-opening these markets by taking down the T-walls will provide that legitimate opportunity.”
Preston and his task force are not the first to attempt restoration of Samarra to its potential.

Two battalion commanders who preceded Preston worked alongside the leadership of Samarra through partnered efforts aimed at repairing damaged sections of the city and providing small business grants to shopkeepers to help prepare their stores for the day when the T-walls would come down.

“I wish I could see the faces of [Lt. Col.] Sam Whitehurst and [Lt. Col.] Eric Timmerman when they hear the news,” Preston said of the commanders of the last two U.S. units in Samarra—both personal friends. “I know that they truly cared about the people of Samarra and that they would love to be able to celebrate with their old friends.”

Command Sgt. Maj. Berk Parsons, senior enlisted leader of Task Force 2-11, conveyed the significance of the T-wall removal as an indication of progress in Samarra in terms of security.

“The city of Samarra holds a significant place in the history of Iraq,” he said. “Unfortunately, what most know about the city’s role is its contemporary history, specifically concerning its connection to the sectarian violence.”

“The progress of the Samarra government and the Iraqi security forces set the conditions which allow the city to begin its return to its former prestige,” Parsons said. “The removal of the T-walls is a tangible symbol and a phenomenal progression towards the city’s restoration.”

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Tech Sgt. Merry Hopkins, Intelligence Capacity Building Team non-commissioned officer in charge and advisor, reviews lessons learned from her last visit while advising female Iraqi intelligence analysts, Iraqi Intelligence Community, Baghdad, Iraq, Feb. 23. The 467th Expeditionary Intelligence Squadron joint expeditionary tasked airman started a program to advise female analysts to enhance Iraq's intelligence capability to keep the Iraqi population safe. Photo by Maj. Joseph Coslett

An airman set out as part of a joint team to advise the Iraqi intelligence community and started a female intelligence advisory program to increase their capability to share information to help keep Iraq secure.

Tech. Sgt. Merry Hopkins, Intelligence Capacity Building Team non-commissioned officer in charge and advisor, regularly goes outside the wire with Army Capt. David Salazar, ICBT officer in charge, and their interpreter to foster communication within the Directorate of General Intelligence and Security.

“We suggest ideas to them that might benefit them,” the joint expeditionary tasked airman said. “We don’t try and make them do it our way. Our goal is to help them do it their way better. We meet regularly with the other agency liaisons to see how we can better interact with each other to build the IIC to better support the Government of Iraq.”

According to Hopkins, a lot of the agencies don’t realize how they can work together. For example, the imagery and mapping directorate or IMD has a lot of maps and they are very quickly learning how to use technology to produce high-quality maps. A lot of other intelligence agencies had no idea what they were producing and how they could help them.

“We just help them communicate with one another and bring other agencies to IMD to show them what they do and how IMD can assist other agencies,” the Webberville, Mich., native explained. “All of the sudden requests start coming into IMD for different products.”

Now, when Hopkins first arrived, the farthest thing from her minds was helping shape one of the major intelligence directorates.

“A volunteer opportunity came up, they needed people in support of a unique mission and there wasn’t a lot in information given,” she emphasized. “I thought ‘what the heck, I’ll try it!’”

When she arrived with her new unit she was informed she would be a part of a liaison team working directly with Iraqis. She did not realize how she was going to help them right away.

“The biggest challenge with the mission was figuring out exactly…how…we were going to help the Iraqis,” said Hopkins, currently stationed with U.S. Central Command, Tampa, Fla. “Even though our leadership knew where they wanted us to be by the end of 2011, the way to get there was not as clearly defined. This was kind of uncharted territory.”

Her experience as an imagery analyst allowed her to start mapping the uncharted territory.

“She was uniquely able to give greatly needed guidance, mentorship, friendship and professional advice to her female counterparts in the imagery and mapping division at DGIS,” Cmdr. Helen Furbush, Intelligence Capacity Team officer in charge. “This wouldn’t have been possible for a male to do, and the female-to-female analyst program wouldn’t have developed if she didn’t have an imagery analysis background. She was the right person, in the right place, at the right time.”

Her attitude and experience was recognized when she was requested by section leadership.

“The director of IMD realized this and he asked if she could mentor the women,” Furbush said. “The female analysts are talented, but lack confidence in the Iraqi male-dominated workplace to step out with their ideas and insights. Hopkins made great strides in encouraging their progress and supporting their analytic capability.”

In the beginning, the females were very timid and they would hardly say hello. Then suddenly the breakthrough came in the form of regular conversations.

“I have noticed, over time, that they are quietly becoming the cornerstones of their sections,” said the 467th Intelligence Squadron imagery analyst. “They are always there and the section chiefs know that whatever jobs they give to them, they will get done quickly and well.”

Even though they are not always afforded the same training opportunities as men they manage to train themselves, she continued.

“She is very smart and knowledgeable in her imagery skills,” said an Iraqi analyst. “We would constantly test her and she was quick to respond. She was a happy and enjoyable person to be around.”

For the ICBT’s efforts, they were accepted as part of the family.

“The high point was interacting directly with the Iraqis and being accepted as a member of their family,” said the long time resident of. “They take very good care of our team and when they get a report of an attack against the base or the embassy, they are always happy to find out we are okay.”

She knows she is part of something special but it is hard for her to describe the experience.

“We have been privileged to have the opportunity to be in Iraq right now,” she said. “Now is the time to be a positive part of the history here. Just as many Iraqis believe in strong relationships in their everyday lives, we need to believe that we can help build a strong relationship between the U.S. and Iraq for the future.”

Salazar expressed his gratitude for Hopkins’ efforts and the lasting impression she is leaving in Iraq.

“I appreciate your hard work and dedication that you put into this tour,” he said. “I know it is difficult to be away from your family helping citizens of a country on the other side of the world. But they appreciate it and will remember you far after you have departed. You are a warm face that represented your military Service and your country with distinction and honor. I wish you the best in your career and future.”

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Story by Maj. Joseph Coslett

First Lt. Matthew Dean from Richmond, Ohio, 1st Lt. Di’Anna Newton from Hallettsville, Texas, and 1st Lt. Theresa Ockrassa from Austin, Texas, explore the tomb of King Shulgi, the king of Ur who originally built the Ziggurat of Ur. The Ziggurat is one of Iraq’s many historical sites and is located just north of Camp Adder near Nasiriyah. All three soldiers are assigned to Company G, 3rd Bn., 29th FA Reg., 3rd AAB, 4th Inf. Div. (Army photo/1st Lt. Theresa Ockrassa)

The soldiers of Maintenance Platoon, Company G, visit the historical Ziggurat of Ur. The Ziggurat is one of Iraq’s many historical sites and is located just north of Camp Adder near Nasiriyah. Company G is assigned to 3rd Bn., 29th FA Reg., 3rd AAB, 4th Inf. Div. (Army photo/1st Lt. Theresa Ockrassa)

The soldiers of Company G, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Infantry Division took a break from their support operations to experience some of the culture and history of Iraq.

The Ziggurat of Ur stands proudly outside Camp Adder and is believed to be 4,000 years old. While originally a temple to the moon god, it has become a symbol of honor for Iraqi ingenuity and culture, as well as being the birth place of the prophet Abraham.

Over the course of three weeks, the entire Company ventured out to the Ziggurat and met with the local tour guide Dhiaf Mahsen, who willingly shared his knowledge of Iraq as well as the historical site. The trip started with a trek to the top of the Ziggurat where Dhiaf discussed the history of the people of Ur, the significance of the Ziggurat and the temple that used to stand on top of it.

“It was really cool to stand on top of the Ziggurat and see the whole area we have been working in for months. It gave me a new perspective,” said Pvt. Dante Tate, of St. Louis, Mo.

While learning about the historical city of Ur, as well as the structural specifications of the Ziggurat, Soldiers also learned a few interesting bits of trivia from Dhiaf. They learned that the city of Ur had the first written law under king Ur-namu and that it predated the Code of Hammurabi by almost 300 years. Dhiaf shared that the first wheel had been built in the area and that despite its lasting impact on human society and technology, it was originally designed as a child’s toy.

“The wealth of knowledge we got from our guide was amazing. This guy knows his history,” said Spc. Dorian Johnson of Stoudsburg, Pa.

After the view from the top of the Ziggurat, the Ghost Riders headed down into the ruins of the Ur-namu Shugli Palace near the base. Despite being over 4000 years old, the Ghost Riders were able to see the original foundations and got to walk into the excavated royal tombs.

Within the tombs, many of the ancient technology fascinated the Ghost Riders. The door hinges made of wood tied to a door in a stone base and the ancient written language of cuneiform were particular favorites.

“It was amazing to be around all the old artifacts and structures,” said Spc. Cody Bryan of Dayton, Ohio. “The most interesting part was the three original bricks still engraved with cuneiform.”

The Ziggurat stands by the remains of the biblical prophet Abraham’s birth home and many soldiers were excited to see this portion of religious history in person. The house had fallen to its foundations over time, but was rebuilt in 1999.

“Actually seeing Abraham’s house and knowing an actual prophet lived there was really awesome and a once in a lifetime experience,” said Spc. David Adkins of Harker Heights, Texas.

The time at the Ziggurat and the surrounding historical sites was beneficial for the Ghost Riders and helped them understand a portion of Iraq’s history in a way they had not understood before.

“It was interesting to see something from so long ago still standing and show the ingenuity and progress of mankind,” said Johnson. “The trip was enlightening.”

The soldiers returned from their adventures feeling inspired and more connected to the history of the country they have been working to support.

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By 1st Lt. Theresa Ockrassa

A soldier from the 1st Bn., 8th Inf. Reg., 3rd AAB, 4th Inf. Div., distributes equipment from the micro-grant program to a local Iraqi businessman who plans to expand his business. The micro-grants are expected to boost the local economy. Photo by Spc. Chastity Boykin

With the improvement of security, the business community is in a better position to grow. But in order to grow, some small businesses need some help.

Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Advise and Assist Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, recently distributed micro-grants to 36 small business owners in Maysan province.

The micro-grant program is designed to stimulate the local economy by improving and expanding local businesses, said Maysan Provincial Reconstruction Team economic advisor, Donna Carter.

U.S. forces issue micro-grants in sums of up to $5,000 to Iraqi small business owners who are chosen after a deliberate application process. Approximately 30 days after the micro-grants are issued, U.S. troops will follow up to assess the business owners’ progress.

A micro-grant recipient and local car-repair shop owner said he plans on using the new equipment, a car jack, tools, and a generator, from the grant to improve his business and expand his shop.

According to Sgt. 1st Class William Riley, project manager for Maysan, with Battery A, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, assigned to 1st Bn., 8th Inf. Regt., business owners who wish to receive a grant must first provide a plan of action of how the grant will be used. Businesses are then screened according to how the grant will impact the individual business and the local economy.

“Many of these shops lack the essential equipment to efficiently conduct day-to-day operations. By providing tools to help make these shops viable economically, it provides an opportunity for them to grow and contribute to the overall economic health and stability of the province,” said Riley.

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Story by Spc. Chastity Boykin

Pilgrims gather in Karbala, Iraq, at a previous commemoration of the Muslim holiday of Ashoura Jan. 19, 2008. The 10-day event commemorates the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the prophet Mohammad, near the city 1,300 years ago. As many as 4 million people participated in the December 2010 holiday, an event for which Iraqi Security Forces took the lead in the protection of participating pilgrims. Archived U.S. Army photo/Sgt. Nicole Dykstra

As Shiite pilgrims slowly filtered out of religious shrines in Karbala Dec. 17, the quiet passing of the Muslim religious holiday of Ashoura made a loud statement about the capabilities of Iraqi security forces in the area.

As many as 4 million pilgrims took part in the 2010 Ashoura, including 200,000 foreigners from 24 separate countries, according to Iraqi estimates. The security of Ashoura participants and the areas surrounding holy shrines in Karbala was the sole responsibility of Iraqi security forces, who assumed the security lead for the country as part of Operation New Dawn Sept. 1.

The Muslim holiday of Ashoura, translated “the tenth day,” commemorates the death of Imam Al-Hussein, the grandson of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad at the Battle of Karbala in the seventh century. Ashoura is particularly significant to Shia Muslims, who make pilgrimages in order to congregate at holy shrines in Muslim holy cities like Karbala and Najaf. The influx of vast numbers of pilgrims into Iraq presents unique security challenges to the Iraqi security forces, specifically for the crowds of people who gather around the Imam Al-Hussein and Imam Al-Abbas shrines at Karbala.

In previous years the holiday has occasionally been marred by insurgent attempts to disrupt Ashoura gatherings and destabilize the country. In March 2004, two bombs in Baghdad and Karbala killed more than 170 people. Clashes between sectarian groups in January 2008 during Ashoura resulted in the deaths of 263 people in Karbala. No such violence could be seen on the streets of Karbala this year.

U.S. forces assumed a supporting role in the security for Ashoura, advising key ISF leaders and providing humanitarian assistance for participants during the commemorations.

“The 8th Iraqi Army executed a well-crafted plan to distribute food to pilgrims during Ashoura,” said U.S. Army Maj. Tad Gilbert, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment civil affairs officer. “Third ACR supported the ISF with additional food supplies to augment their distribution plan.”

While Ashoura was visibly marked by throngs of people honoring Muslim religious traditions in peace, the Iraqi military and police were busy behind the scenes responding to insurgent threats.

“Ashoura was a very successful operation,” said Lt. Gen. Othman Al Ghanimi, commander of the 8th Iraqi Army and charged as the lead in Karbala during the security operations surrounding the holiday. Eighty suspected insurgents were captured and numerous explosives were dismantled by members of Iraqi security forces in and around Karbala, said Othman.

The strength of Iraqi security forces has become paramount as Jan. 1 marks the last year of U.S. forces involvement under the existing security agreement in Iraq.

“The performance of Iraqi security forces, particularly during Ashoura, has been nothing less than impressive,” said Col. Reginald E. Allen, commander of 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, which has the responsibility of advising and assisting Iraqi military and police in Karbala and four other provinces across southern Iraq. “The ISF ability to secure such a large event with no attacks for the first time in seven years with little assistance from U.S. forces is clear evidence that the ISF is fully capable of securing the Iraqi people.”

As a significant Shiite Muslim religious holiday ended Dec. 18, it was not the tested crisis response of Iraqi security forces that marked its successful passing, but the lack of any crisis at all.

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Story by Jason Billington

WASIT PROVINCE, Iraq - Local Iraqi boys watch as water flows freely from the Tigris River into an irrigation canal Nov. 14, 2010. The water is delivered through a pump station and feeds 1500 area farms. The Wasit Provincial Reconstruction Team has overseen recent improvements to the station that included two new generators and several new pumps. US Army photo by Staff Sgt. Garrett Ralston

The Wasit Provincial Reconstruction Team, escorted by members of Company H, 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment held a meeting with local farmers in the Numaniyah area Sunday.

The farmers recently received new water pumps that pull water from a nearby river into a canal to irrigate local farmland. The meeting was an opportunity for PRT members and US Forces to see the pumps in action and also discuss future management of the pump station.

“The operation of this pumping station has been on and off since 2003,” said Armand Lanier, a PRT agricultural advisor from the United States Agency for International Development. “The station has pumped water through four antiquated pumps that have needed constant maintenance.”

In recent years the station has struggled to pump enough water to supply the 1500 area farms and was costly to keep up. With nobody officially responsible for the station it seemed it would remain out of service. Now with the new pumps and discussions developing between the farmers the station is on its way to effective production once again.

After the PRT assessment, funds were appropriated for two new heavy capacity generators to provide power for the pumps. The new pumps pull water horizontally from tubes that reach out further into the river allowing for greater pressure and more water. The canal now flows at the limit of it banks.

“The PRT plans to meet monthly with the farmers’ Water User Association,” said Lanier. “We want to teach them to be more water conscious which will increase production for them.”

The soldiers of Company H have an essential piece of the development of the area as well.

“Our responsibility is to enable the PRT by getting them out here and making sure they have a safe environment to operate in,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Hubacek, a platoon sergeant in Company H. “We also spend a lot of time with ISF [Iraqi Security Forces] and try to maintain positive relationships with them.”

Hubacek says it is important for USF to be engaged with these processes of Iraqi reconstruction.

“We really want to train the farmers to be better users of their water and agricultural resources,” said Lanier. “We want them to be effective on their own because that’s the aim of these projects.”

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Story by Staff Sgt. Garrett Ralston

The Ziggurat of Ur, sometimes called the 'Great Ziggurat of Ur' is a Neo-Sumerian ziggurat which is located in the city of Ur near Nasiriyah. Photo by Spc. Chastity Boykin

Among all of the construction that has been undertaken to rebuild the economy of Iraq, one project that was started over 4,000 years ago may hold the keys to the financial future as the site is reframed as a tourist attraction.

In the desert sands outside of Nasiriyah in Dhi Qar province, the ancient Ziggurat of Ur stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and hard work of its builders.

“To think of the amount of effort required to build the temple over four-thousand years ago and the sense of community and spirituality required to organize a project of this magnitude is overwhelming,” said Maj. Brian North

North, who is the executive officer of the 3rd BSTB, 3rd Advise and Assist Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, said that the architecture and the sheer size of the monument is something that the people of Dhi Qar take pride in as part of their continued legacy stretching from millennia ago to the present day.

“Those ties to the past are important,” said North.

The Ziggurat is made of a three-layered, solid mass of mud and brick with no chambers, said Mike Francis Dhaif Muhsen, Ziggurat curator and tour guide.

“The lower layer is from the original construction by Ur Nammu, while the two upper layers were restored during the Neo-Babylonia era,” said Muhsen, who hails from nearby Tallil, Iraq.

Also found at the site are examples of cuneiform, one of the earliest forms of writing. The markings can still be seen on bricks that lay among the ruins of the city of Ur, along with one of the oldest surviving archways. Still more archeological treasures are thought to lie just beneath the surface as only 20 percent of the complex is believed to have been excavated.

The possibility of even more discoveries there has led to the site being seen as a major tourist attraction in the region, with the potential to bring in tourist dollars to the area.

But after weathering thousands of summers in the hostile environment of Mesopotamia, a new hazard threatens to rain destruction upon what remains of the site.

Insurgent rocket attacks launched against nearby Camp Adder have come dangerously close to damaging the Ziggurat along with the other structures that stand nearby. The recent explosions and impacts in the surrounding area may have already done irreparable harm to what had yet to be uncovered.

Furthermore, the continued threat of attacks has harmed the local economy by keep visitors, and their cash, away.

How the locals handle the security situation in the region will undoubtedly affect whether or not the region will see a rebirth in their fortunes, economic or otherwise. Bringing peace to the area after years of conflict would be another monumental achievement in the long and resilient legacy of Iraqi people’s ability to rebuild.

“Walking through the ruins,” said North, “you can clearly get a sense of the pride Iraqis have in their history.”

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Story by Spc. Chastity Boykin

A 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment soldier peers into a courtyard at the Babylon Ruins site. The soldier is part of a team surveying the site for a renovation project in the Babil province of Iraq. Photo by Staff Sgt. Mark Albright

What’s old will become renewed as the Babylon Historic Ruins Museum undergoes a facelift. Local contractors have begun the renovations under the coordinating efforts of museum officials and the Babil Provincial Reconstruction Team.

“We are working hand-in-hand with the Provincial Governor and we are just doing one step at a time,” said Lou Simonetti, Infrastructure Essential Services Team Lead Engineer of the Babil PRT.

The project focuses on the renovation and restoration of the museum, the exhibits, archeological artifacts, and upgrading security at the gates. Once complete, the project will benefit the economy of the province by boosting tourism there, said Simonetti.

The project will also provide a benefit to students of all age groups as they come to visit the ruins and learn about its history, said Lt. Col Brian Radliff, Regimental Deputy Commanding Officer, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment

The project is scheduled for completion in three months at the cost of just over $200,000. The site contains Nebuchadnezzar’s Palace, Alexander the Great’s Palace, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and several other temples.

“Our current focus in the last stage of our operation here is to continue to develop the Iraqi economic infrastructure within the local communities,” said Radliff. “Improving tourism, and specifically, ecotourism, with projects like the Babylon Ruin Museum will have economic benefits.”

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Story by Staff Sgt. Mark Albright

Juan Alsace (right), an embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team leader, examines a piece of clay pottery found at the Sobbar Abu Habba historical site near Mahmudiyah, Nov. 4. Alsace joined Soldiers of the 120th Combined Arms Battalion, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, and officials from the Iraq Ministry of Antiquities and Tourism to survey ancient historical sites to build protective fences to discourage looters. Photo by Sgt. Jon Soles

What may look like large, weathered mounds of dirt in rural farmland near Mahmudiyah are actually artifact-filled ruins of an ancient civilization.

Soldiers of the North Carolina National Guard’s 120th Combined Arms Battalion, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, surveyed the sites, here, recently, with officials from the Government of Iraq’s Ministry of Antiquities and Tourism to examine ways to preserve and protect two ancient Sumerian sites from looters.

The complexes of dirt mounds — Tal Aldair and Sobbar Abu Habba — were once Sumerian city walls outside of what is today Mahmudiyah, south of Baghdad. Pottery and clay tablets with the world’s first form of writing, Cuneiform, are known to be in the mounds. The Sumerian culture is the oldest civilization in the world, dating back to the 6th century B.C.

“It’s for the world and not just Iraq to preserve these world heritage sites because a lot of folks know it as the cradle of civilization,” said Morrison. “These [Sumerians] were the first people we know of in history to be able to write and keep records and those are the kinds of artifacts that are here today.”

The sites have already seen looting, and the GoI officials and archaeologists want to prevent more plundering by erecting security fences and a guard shack at the mounds.

“It has been identified as one of those sites that have been an easy target for looters over the years because of close proximity to Baghdad and because of turbulence in Iraq’s history,” said Maj. Charles Morrison, executive officer for the 120th CAB. “We’re working with the Ministry to secure the site for preservation and future excavation. It’s important for the Iraqi people, especially to preserve their heritage.”

Morrison, an infantry officer from Nashville, N.C., is taking a lead in the project. A self-described history buff, Morrison formerly worked for the North Carolina of Archives and History. He said he is particularly interested in helping the Iraqis preserve a site that is 4,000 years old.

Nouri Obeyd Kathem, an archaeologist with the Ministry of Antiquities and Tourism, led Morrison over the mounds. Thousands of years of erosion have worn down the once city walls and temple structures, exposing countless pieces of clay pottery and other artifacts. Many more are still buried in the centuries-old mounds.

“They have been with us today to make sure we don’t damage any of the archaeological sites when we emplace the fence and scope of work,” said Morrison. “We’re trying to work hand in hand with the government to make sure we do what they want in terms of preserving the site.”

The plans call for security fences and possibly guard shacks to protect the sites. Signs would also be erected to let Iraqis know about the historical significance of the sites.

One of the legacies American Soldiers can leave behind in Iraq as the troop drawdown continues is a fence that will help preserve an ancient site that will continue to be a symbol of the nation’s ancient history and culture.

Story by Sgt. Jon Soles
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A tuba, two trumpets, a trombone, and a French horn are all it took for five soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division Band to speak to 25 Iraqi music students, with the Peace Through Arts program, at the United States Embassy.

A tuba, two trumpets, a trombone, and a French horn are all it took for five soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division Band to speak to 25 Iraqi music students, with the Peace Through Arts program, at the United States Embassy.

The students sat on the edge of their seats holding their instruments and mimicking the soldiers’ movements as they played. They listened intently, learning from every note produced by the instruments of the Cantigny Brass Quintet.

Once the quintet finished playing music that ranged from classical to movie themes, they gave one-on-one classes to the students to improve their playing skills.

The band members showed the students breathing techniques and proper hand placement on their instruments to play louder and longer.

“We showed them classical music, American marches and rock ‘n’ roll,” said Chief Warrant Officer Jeremiah Keillor, a native of Los Fresnos, Texas, 1st ID band commander and band master.

He said that the student’s musical skills are based on a good foundation. They only needed to hear the songs and they could play them back.

Mohammed Saad, one of the students from Baghdad, said they will benefit from the band member’s experience to help them be better musicians.

This is the first time a musical exchange between soldiers and young Iraqis has happened at the Embassy.

“I’m able to get a point across and communicate through the music,” said Sgt. Matthew Johnston, a native of Ellicott City, Md., and a trombonist with the band.

“We did some of the Iraqi folk songs together,” said Johnston. “We were able to produce music together for their enjoyment and ours.”

“Hopefully the students will take this experience and see that the band is made up of not just soldiers, but musicians too,” said Keillor. “We’re like them. We can play the same music, we can open the same book, we can read it side-by-side,” he said.

Ambassador James F. Jeffrey, United States Ambassador to Iraq said although the students associate soldiers with Humvees and protecting them against terrorists, it’s great to see the soldiers share with them their love of culture and music.

“We’re really proud of these soldiers from the Big Red One, and proud of their cooperation with these young Iraqis,” he said.

“By working with the children, we are able to collaborate and share a piece of their culture as well ours,” said Johnston.

The soldiers from the quintet will continue to reach out to the Iraqi students. The band has invited them to Contingency Operating Base Basra to play together again and to continue to develop a bond based on the language of music.

“It’s all about small steps,” said Keillor. “Hopefully it will shape the lives of the 25 kids that were here today.”

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Story by Spc. Joseph Vine