America's North Shore Journal

More than 140 suspected criminals turned themselves into the Joint Coordination Center in the city of Balad, May 22. Three tribal leaders from the area ended their standoff with U.S. and Iraqi forces by bringing in all men under their influence who have a criminal history. “Today’s reconciliation is an example of local leaders taking a broad step forward in the future security and in the legitimacy of the legal process,” said Maj. Ramiro Salazar, an executive officer of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. “This is the first step of initiating the process for reconciliation with the Iraqi Government, as well as Iraqi Security and Coalition forces.” The mass reconciliation comes on the heels of several operations designed to put an end to the insurgency that has crippled the area since … Read entire article »