Kerosene Given Out To Villagers
Baghdad
The winter has been difficult for many Iraqi families. But there was many a smiling face as a joint team of Iraqi soldiers and Coalition troops worked together to pass out fuel, kerosene and supplies to needy families. This was the first time that fuel had been passed out since September 2007.
This was an important distribution because not only do most Iraqi families use kerosene for heat, they also use the fuel to burn for cooking. There were an estimated one hundred fifty families waiting for the fuel distribution. “You could tell that this was a precious resource that these families really need,” said Captain Benjamin Fielding. Fielding is the A company commander of the coalition soldiers who helped with this fuel distribution.
Local villagers lined up for many hours to wait for the fuel delivery. The Iraqi Troops mingled with the crowd waiting, and helped provide security. Everyone was in good spirits, and there were no problems during the fuel delivery.
Lieutenant Basher, the Iraqi National Police platoon leader talked with locals, and tried to help keep the spirit light and upbeat. Lt. Basher worked with local leaders, coalition forces and the crowd itself to help keep things orderly during the fuel project.
Iraqi Citizens also were volunteering their telephone numbers, and taking down the numbers that coalition soldiers provided. “Citizens have began to call and report when they notice any terrorist activity or extremists in their area, it’s a huge benefit,” said 1st Lieutenant Aaron Hall. Lieutenant Hall is the Coalition liaison officer working with the Iraqi National police.
