The discussion, led by Col. Joseph Martin, commander, 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, was to inform the local media of the Brigade’s mission in northwest Baghdad, spark the interest of story ideas for the press and answer specific questions the media asked.

“It is very important that the public, who read Iraqi newspapers and watch Iraqi television, are informed on not only the mission of Coalition forces, but specifically the mission of [this] Brigade,” said Mohammed Asadi, Arabic media coordinator for the 2nd HBCT. “I think the best way to inform the public is to bring the local media to the brigade and inform them about the mission.”

Martin opened up by thanking the group and wanted to ensure that they knew the brigade’s primary mission was to work in partnership with the Iraqi Security Forces in securing the people of northwest Baghdad.

“There are many stories to tell about the people of northwest Baghdad and our relationship with them,” Martin said to the group. “Since our arrival over two months ago we are proud to be a part of what we believe is a historic time for Baghdad  and Iraq."

A part of the historic time Martin mentioned is the Iraqi national elections scheduled for Jan. 31.

Some of the press members were very interested in what role the Brigade will play on Election Day and how the new security agreement, enacted Jan. 1, will affect the security of the population.

“These two events are very large milestones for the history of Iraq,” said Asadi. “I know that the people are wondering how Coalition forces will be involved from now on.”

Martin told the media present that the Brigade and ISF are carefully planning the details of patrols and searches to ensure Election Day will be safe.

Another question asked was if the Soldiers have ever put thought to fighting terrorism not only kinetically, but by providing services and jobs to the people of the Brigade’s areas of operation.

“What we are doing about these issues is working closely with the Iraqi Government and the Belladiyah to continue to foster an environment of normalcy,” Martin said. “Economic growth, more money and more jobs for the people are all direct results of a foundation of good security.”

Martin also mentioned how the ISF and CF have come together to bring displaced people back to their homes after they moved away because of sectarian violence.

He emphasized how the people are putting more and more trust in their government as security improves daily.

“We continue to work toward a self-sustaining level of improvement so there will be nothing that can stop it,” said Martin. “Because of that the Iraqi people, the Iraqi government and the team that works together to secure them is making news worldwide.”