14 April, 2010 Iraq

Operation Inspire Education

Security always comes first whenever we engage in any mission. We parked our 4 trucks strategically to provide the

best perimeter protection at the schools.

Even upon entering the schools, security never stops.

Here we have two Soldiers poised to respond in the event the bad guys attack.

Sergeant First Class Cindy and I organized the school supplies

for distribution. Between the boys high school and the girls secondary school, we gave supplies to over 500

students.

The 2 gentlemen to my immediate left are city council members who came to support our operation. At first, they

did not seem like they were enjoying themselves…

…but as we started giving out the school supplies, their faces changed. Look at the smile on the council

member’s face!

Sergeant C. hard at work passing out notebooks to a classroom full of boys.

I guess boys will be boys no matter what country you

are in. The students in this class started getting very

excited as soon as we took out our cameras.

Engaging in humanitarian missions is good for our Soldiers’ souls. The Soldiers who worked with me on this day thanked me for the opportunity and told me that they want to do it again.

Females in Iraq are taught to practice modesty when in public. So, they cover their heads in order to

not draw attention to themselves.

At a young age, Iraqi girls learn to avoid eye contact with men. Such an “intimate” physical act is allowed

only with male members of one’s family.

Going out on a humanitarian mission requires a lot of coordination. I received great support from Captain Eric A.

and First Lieutenant Todd W. who helped provide transportation, security, and manpower.

I think we did a good job of accomplishing our mission. We got a big thumbs up from the students.

Thank you for all of your prayers and support. This operation would not have been possible

without your generous contributions .

May God continue to bless you and yours for your faithfulness!

THANK YOU!!!