Marines provide construction, security and farming aid

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Press Release
Public Affairs Office
1st Marine Division
1stLt. Eric Knapp

Contact: KnappEM@1mardivdm.usmc.mil

Release # 0621-04-1154

Marines provide construction, security and farming aid

June 20, 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 attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Nasser Wa Al Salaam Handicap Nexus. The ceremony was attended by Iraqis from as far away as Baghdad.

The facility’s construction was recently completed and is a step forward for Iraqis with disabilities. Under Saddam Hussein’s regime, Iraqis with debilitations were ostracized and there was no governmental support or assistance.

This new facility will give Iraqis with disabilities a new chance at productive lives.

Marines and soldiers paid out $248,400 for 12 separate projects in cities including, Habbiniyah, Khalidiyah and Ar Ramadi. Payments cover a spectrum of supplies and labor for water projects and school improvements and medical furniture and generators for health clinics.

Marines also delivered supplies to the Ar Ramadi General Hospital. Nearly $50,000 in basic medical supplies were handed over to Iraqi doctors and several boxes of medical books and training aids were donated to the Al Anbar Medical College. The hospital treats 16,000 people every month in a city of 400,000.