RELEASE No. 20100307-03
March 7, 2010

BAGHDAD– Iraqi Security Forces with assistance from U.S. Forces are providing voters a safe environment in which to cast a vote toward the future of Iraq.

Although few requests have come across U.S. military desks for support, the requests that have come in demonstrate the ISF’s resolve to quickly analyze where they need help and willingness to ask for it, say U.S. officials – a sign of the strong partnership both countries have developed and nurtured over the years.

Requests include assistance with explosive ordnance disposal teams, crime scene forensics, military working dog teams, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, as well as command and control coordination.

Colonel Mark Calvert, chief of staff, U.S. Division-Center, said the command and control partnership in particular is as close as it can be at the command centers.

“Throughout the various different levels of ISF command, we are partnered side-by-side to ensure we share information and support their requests during these historic elections,” said Calvert. “Because of our partnerships at the command centers, we were able to quickly divert our air weapons teams to support Iraqi Security Forces operations on the ground.”

That support has also come in the form of escort duties.  U.S. forces were tasked to transport United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq and U.S. embassy observers near polling stations to ensure the legitimacy and credibility of today’s elections.

In Anbar province, 1st Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division (Advise and Assist) paratroopers assisted the ISF by combining their command and control of forces operating throughout the province. They have been  openly exchanging military intelligence and helping the ISF track significant activities.

Col. Mark R. Stammer, commander of 1/82 AAB, says this relationship “by, with, and through the Iraqis” has enabled partnered security elements on the ground to protect Anbari citizens as they cast their votes in the national election.

“The Iraqi Security Forces have conducted countless hours of training and combined operations, allowing them to derail the enemy’s efforts to disrupt this electoral process,” said Stammer.

“These elections are far too important for the Iraqi people to allow the influence of the criminals from casting their votes of fear and intimidation,” said staff Lt. Gen. Abd Al-Aziz Muhammad Jasim Ahmad Al-Mufriji, commanding general of the Anbar Operations Command.

In western Baghdad, Col. John Norris, commander of 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, traveled around Baghdad today, talking to several sheiks. The sheiks told him they were very impressed with the amount of voter turnout at the polling sites.

“The election today, as demonstrated by the high voter turnout, was years in the making, and validated the time and effort invested by the U.S.,” said Norris. “Today was personally rewarding, having witnessed years of growth, change, and progress.”

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