CAMP TAJI — In an effort to provide local Iraqi residents with supplies and extra comforts during the winter months, U.S. Soldiers here are stocking warehouses full of humanitarian aid items.
For troopers from 1st Bn, 82nd FAR, 1st BCT, 1st Cav Div, providing aid to the local population is an opportunity to cross-train their Iraqi counterparts on civil military ops. "We're going to coach, teach and mentor the IA on proper civil military ops," explained Capt. Matthew Hopper.
The bn has a warehouse filled with more than 3,000 water filtration systems and 5,000 blankets. The bn's maneuver elements that partner with the IA have free access to the warehouse, so they can distribute the aid on routine patrols.
"There will be multiple humanitarian ops and drops in the coming weeks," said Staff Sgt. Nicholas Lien, the civil military ops NCO-in-charge. "We want to provide the locals with adequate, clean, potable drinking water, as well as a means to keep warm during the cold winter months," said Lien.
"By providing the people things they need, the IA will continue to build the trust they have with local residents," agreed Spc. Daniel Brindell. "It's a good opportunity for the IA to help foster relationships with the people they protect."
