HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND
7115 South Boundary Boulevard
MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101
Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894
Release Number: 04-05-08
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARINES, SOLDIERS PROPOSE INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES TO SHEIKS
AR RAMADI, Iraq - Marines and Soldiers with the 1st Marine Division met with Iraqi sheiks May 4 to propose several projects to improve water distribution, roads, and 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 awarded two contracts for renovations at primary schools near Ramadi - at the Al Irtiqaa Primary School and the Hassan Bin Thabit Primary School. Renovations will be completed in two phases; the first phase should last two weeks.
Meeting with another sheik, Civil Affairs teams also discussed a proposal for adding streetlights and fixing potholes in certain sections of Ramadi. The sheik agreed that cleaning up the area would make it harder for insurgents to plant improvised explosive devices, making the area safer for Iraqi citizens.
Civil Affairs teams are also addressing Ramadi's water needs. Some residents rely on the city's glass factory for water, but supplies are inadequate. Initial assessments showed some houses received water, while others did not. Plant officials said plans call for new water pipes in the area.
The 1st Marine Division is focused on destroying anti-Coalition forces in the Al Anbar province while simultaneously establishing a patient, persistent presence in key areas throughout the province. The division will also support the development of competent, trustworthy, Iraqi security forces and conduct civil military operations.
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