RELEASE No. 20081212-02
CAMP LIBERTY Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad leaders talked with members of the Killeen Mosque Leadership Council during a video teleconference Dec. 10 to discuss the accomplishments that have been made in Iraq and ways to better relationships within the Muslim community. Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, commanding general, MND-B and 4th Infantry Division, gathered for a third VTC meeting. As with the previous two VTC meetings, the council leaders expressed a wish for the civilian media to tell the American people the successful improvements that are in direct correlation of the Coalition Forces and Iraqi people working together.
Along with Hammond, Lt. Col. James Carter, the senior chaplain of MND-B and 4th Inf. Div., and Hammond’s chief cultural advisor Alaa Abdelazim, listened and shared their thoughts. “The intent is to continue to establish, develop and deepen relationships with our local Muslim leaders of the local Killeen Mosque,” said Carter. During the VTC, Hammond went over slides describing the changes in the Baghdad area imparted to the Iraq people – they are ready to look to their own people to keep this county safe.
“The Iraqi people are tired of this (fighting); they want the same thing we have in Killeen – they want their children to go to school, they want work, they want electricity, they want to enjoy life,” said Hammond. Building understanding and trust are the goals 4th Inf. Div. leaders try to achieve and it allows the American Muslim community to feel connected to the Middle East Muslim populace.
“They help us carry the message of hope and reconciliation,” said Carter. “We as Americans are one nation; we have the free exercise of religion, and a spirit of acceptance and toleration toward one another – without compromise. We support one another.” There will be one more meeting between Texas and Baghdad to introduce the 1st Cavalry Division and impart a smooth transition after Hammond leaves with 4th Inf. Div.
Source: MNF-Iraq.
May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.
Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.
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