Posted on 09/27/2008 9:36:30 AM PDT by SandRat
DULUYIAH — In an effort to assist the health needs of the people of Duluyiah, the Iraqi government has provided financial assistance for upgrades at the local clinic in the form of grants totaling $34,000.
This is part of a program of Iraqi emergency relief funds allocated for key infrastructure intended to address shortfalls in necessary services previously neglected due to violence since the war began in 2003.
Floors, windows and the roof will be repaired. A generator, air conditioning, ceiling fans, water tank and wash basins are also being installed.
The clinic was also given the funds to purchase an infant incubator, and an EKG and ultrasound machine.
These improvements will increase the clinic’s ability to serve the community and show citizens that their government is continuing to increase its ability to provide for them.
“The Iraqi government uses this program to provide funds to the communities that need help, with the Coalition forces in the area playing a supporting role in vetting applicants, monitoring progress and working with Iraqi security forces to maintain security,” said 2nd Lt. James Mason, civil military operations officer for Blackhorse Troop, 1st Squadron, 32nd Cavalry Regiment.
According to the squadron’s leaders, the hard won gains in security are a key point in this strategy. Since the cavalry Soldiers assumed the security responsibility for the Balad Qadah, sectarian violence and criminal activity have been reduced dramatically. This drop in violence can be attributed to many factors, to include the stance of Coalition forces and the improved capabilities of Iraqi security forces.
“The reconciliation program here in the Balad Qadah is the key to how different things are now from a year ago,” said Maj. Reggie Salazar, 1-32 Cav. Regt. executive officer. “This base used to receive frequent mortar attacks, and roadside bombs were commonplace when our Soldiers went out into the community. Now, Iraqi security and Coalition forces travel the area almost completely unencumbered.”
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