3rd Infantry Soldiers Brings Donated American Assistance
Even though the temperature is fairly chilly, the smiles on the faces of the children at the Al Ashbal Primary School are hard to miss. The school has broken windows, and there is no electricity so students wear cloaks and coats while indoors.
Students were excited to see the arrival of U.S. Soldiers bearing gifts of supplies. Soldiers from Company C, First Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd infantry went to the school with supplies, food and greetings.
“We did not have enough school supplies for all of the children,” said Muna Ibrahim Hussein. Hussein is the leader and headmistress of the Al Ashbal Primary School. “I have just not have enough materials for everyone before today,” said Ms. Hussein.
Toys, pencils, crayons, pencil sharpeners, paper, scissors, as well as soccer balls were delivered to the school and distributed by the soldiers. “This particular school just has not had enough attention from our troops,” said 1st Lieutenant Ehren Linderman. Linderman is a Tank Platoon leader for Company C.
Linderman and his soldiers brought officers from the Battalion Civil affairs team to help examine the school and plan for additional assistance. Efforts will be started soon to rebuild and replace portions of the school. “We want to repair the doors, windows, and other areas here at the school,” said Staff Sgt. Michael Batdorf. “Anything we can manage to do will help the students tremendously,” said Batdorf. The Civil Affairs team members looked around and took notes, to help plan a rebuilding effort.
