Coalition And Iraqi Forces Work As Unified Force
The continuation of joint patrols with the Iraqi Security Forces is slowly building capacity in the region in and around North Babil. The Northern Areas of Babil are known for their fish farming and they have came back since all the fighting. Members of the insurgency have at times tried to hide out among the new farming activity, but they are soon discovered.
On one patrol the soldiers of 3rd Infantry, 4th BCT, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Battalion, and Company B were very pleased to observe the progress of different fish Farmers working and cleaning their farms. Several of these farmers are preparing to receive economic type farm aid from the USID Agency.
Not quite a year ago the fish farms were not in operation due to Al Qaeda influence in the region, but now the farms are all growing and going strong, several having been the recipients of aid from the coalition in the form of micro grants and other support.
The farmers were surprised at first to see soldiers often but the fish farmers have grown accustomed to their presence and are glad they are there. Working with the Iraqi Army and National police, the American Soldiers have gained in respect for the abilities of the Iraqi Security Forces.
“We have definitely seen a huge improvement in how well the ISF operates,†said one infantry soldier.
