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close1-38 provides backup for Iraqi election
Well-trained ISF shows insurgents it can get the job done on its own
U.S. Army
Soldiers with 1-38 Inf., 4th Bde., 2nd Inf. Div., watch the area with Iraqi Army soldiers from the rooftop of an Iraqi Army post on Sunday while Abu Ghraib residents cast their votes in nearby polling sites. The battalion’s Soldiers expressed satisfaction in the election’s success.
BAGHDAD – Before the sun rose at Victory Base Complex on Sunday, Soldiers from C Company, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment found themselves poised to help Iraqi security forces protect voters during the national elections.
Iraqi forces had given the U.S. Soldiers, from 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, permission to set up inside the Iraqi Army post in Abu Ghraib so they could react quickly to support the ISF, if needed.
“We’re here only if the Iraqi Army calls on us,” said 1st Lt. Andy Byers, leader of 4th Platoon. “The only way we’re allowed to move is if it is specifically requested by ISF command.”
This approach allowed the ISF to demonstrate to insurgents the ISF doesn’t rely on U.S. intervention to secure the elections and showed voters it could handle anything that occurred, said Byers.
“The ISF seem much more confident in working independently,” Byers said. “This election was a perfect chance for them to prove to their people that they are a professional force, and to earn the Iraqi people’s respect.”
Soldiers said the ISF being ready to stand on its own is also a testament to the U.S. military’s success in preparing Iraq to protect itself.
“American forces have trained the ISF well,” said Sgt. Cody Jurrens, a C Co. team leader. “The ISF seems ready, so when we leave, Iraq will be in capable hands.”
After multiple deployments, some 1-38 Inf. Soldiers have noticed significant changes in Iraq’s ability to defend itself.
Sergeant Keith York, another C Co. team leader, served in Iraq from 2007 to 2008. He noticed the difference in how the ISF operated between then and now.
“Back then, there was corruption among the Iraqi Army and police, and they didn’t understand the use of chain of command,” York said. “Over the last three years, it’s been great to see how much better it has become.” Jurrens has also had experience in Iraq.
“In my two deployments to Iraq, I can definitely tell we’ve made a difference, Jurrens said. “Even the local populace has mentioned they’re happy that we’re around.”
York also noticed a big change in the mindset of voters, particularly in Abu Ghraib.
“Last election, hardly anyone in Abu Ghraib voted,” he said, “but (in) this election, there has been a great deal of anticipation leading up to the election among the people of Abu Ghraib, with many of them expecting to cast their votes.”
Leaders from Iraq and around the world have applauded Iraqis for taking a big step toward becoming a free, peaceful nation and their security forces for giving them the opportunity. That step holds a special meaning for York.
“It is great to see them taking the next step,” he said. “It means that when me and my guys go home, we have helped this nation on its way to its potential. I am honored to have been a part of this.”
To see more images of Iraqis going to the polls, visit the following gallery: