An Iraqi policeman from the Maysan province distributes first aid kits to the families of Abu Rummanah during a combined humanitarian operation with Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cav. Division in Amarah Jan. 23. Photo by Pfc. Todd Rogers.
FORWARD OPERATING BASE GARRY OWEN — Iraqi Police from the Al Hussein Station, assisted by Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, joined forces during Operation Goodwill to send a positive message to the citizens in Amarah Jan. 23.
“We have a lot of things to coordinate between us and the coalition,” said Maj. Gen. Saad Ali Ati, from Maysan, during a recent conference at Contingency Operating Base Adder. “We share information and intelligence, and it’s working."
The 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment Soldiers pulled security, while the IP distributed humanitarian aid to those in need.
“Working with the Iraqi Police and going door to door with them to see families is both rewarding to me and the IP’s,” said 2nd Lt. Timothy Hayes, a fire support officer. “That’s the reason we are here, to help the citizens of Iraq.”
After visiting several dozen homes in the areas of Abu Romanah, the IP traveled to the northern part of Amarah. They visited farms and villages near the Tigris River to distribute food, toys and medical supplies to the Iraqis.
“This is a sign of [changing times] for the war here in Iraq,” said Sgt. Robert Andrews. “It’s now all about the hearts and minds [of the Iraqi people].”