Marines and Soldiers Propose Infrastructure Upgrades To Sheiks

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Press Release
Public Affairs Office
1st MARINE DIVISION
1stLt Eric M. Knapp

Contact: KnappEM@1mardivdm.usmc.mil

Release # 0507-04-1238

Marines and Soldiers Propose Infrastructure Upgrades To Sheiks

May 04, 2004

AR RAMADI, IRAQ --
THE WAY AHEAD:

The 1st Marine Division is currently focused on destroying Anti-Iraqi Forces in the Al Anbar province. Simultaneously, the Marines are establishing patient, persistent presence in the key areas throughout the province while supporting the development of competent, trustworthy, Iraqi Security Forces and conducting civil military operations.

CIVIL MILITARY OPERATIONS:

Marines and soldiers with the 1st Marine Division met with Iraqi sheiks today to propose several projects to improve water distribution, roads, school and building repairs.

A team of soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Infantry Division met with a sheik to discuss a proposal to build a bridge over an irrigation canal near Ramadi. The soldiers viewed the proposed site to understand how the bridge could best serve the needs of the Iraqi citizens. The proposal would draw labor from local communities, improving employment opportunities.

Civil Affairs teams also met with another sheik to discuss a proposal for adding streetlights and fixing potholes in certain sections of Ramadi. The sheik agreed that a cleanup of the area would reduce the likelihood of possible improvised explosive devices and render the area safer for Iraqi citizens.

Civil Affairs teams awarded two contracts for school renovations. Both schools near Ramadi, the Al Irtiqaa Primary School and Hassan Bin Thabit Primary School, will be completed in two phases. The first phase is expected to last two weeks.

Civil Affairs teams are also addressing water needs among citizens in Ramadi. Some residents are reliant upon the city’s glass factory for water, but supplies are inadequate. Initial military assessments showed some houses were receiving water, while others were not. Plant officials said there is a plan to install new water pipes.