Our organization hosted a dinner for our Iraqi counterparts to celebrate the "breaking of the fast" during Ramadan. Because of that, the team I am assigned to was responsible for providing security because of the number of important guests that would be attending, from both the Coalition side and the Iraqi government side. It was decided that we would let the Iraqis (gulp) take the lead while we supported, if needed.
Here we are in the final planning phases of the operation.
Here we are in the final planning phases of the operation.
We arrived a little early, and since it was extremely hot outside, we decided to stay inside near the air conditioner and talk through our final plans. This is one of the soldiers assigned to my section.
This loser...wait, that's me. As you can see, I was leading by example and taking advantage of the air conditioner and comfortable chairs. The was the last comfortable position we enjoyed for the next 5 or 6 hours.
Here's a shot of our Iraqi partners in a sniper overwatch position. Yikes.
Here's a shot of our Iraqi partners in a sniper overwatch position. Yikes.
Not sure what I was doing here, but I'm sure it was important to the mission.
One of our lead NCOs from our section. He and I were responsible for security at the entrance to the meeting.
I've got my "game face" on. Either that or I was confused about something.
The Iraqi "welcoming committee".
Sundown in eastern Baghdad.
Finally, rest for the weary!
