BAGHDAD — The citizens of Mahmudiyah Qada went safely to the election polls to vote during the provincial elections, Jan. 31. With no reports of serious violence, the free election was a monumental effort and achievement for the Iraqi Security Forces.
The 17th Iraqi Army Division and Iraqi Police were responsible for the security operations in the area, with Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers serving only in a supporting role.
Iraqi Staff Maj. Gen. Ali, commander, 17th Iraqi Army Division, accompanied by Col. Pat White, commander, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, conducted a site tour of the Mahmudiyah Qada polling stations on Election Day.
Ali checked each of the site’s security from the outside perimeter watching Iraqi Security Forces using handheld metal detectors that were provided by Coalition forces. He offered words of encouragement and guidance to his Soldiers protecting the polling stations.
“You are doing a great service to the people of our country by making it safe for them to come and vote,” said Ali. “Try to make sure it is as easy as possible for the people to get their say in the vote.”
Despite the obvious difference between the polling sites in the congested cities and outlying areas, Ali was greeted with purple fingers and giant smiles everywhere he went.
“I am proud to have had the chance to vote for my leaders,” said one local Iraqi as he showed off his purple finger.
“It is really a very democratic demonstration,” said Saad Tuaima. “The Americans had the gratitude of laying down the democracy in Iraq.”