ANBAR PROVINCE, Iraq -- The Iraqi civilians that reside in the deserts of western Al Anbar province range from traders to farmers. The Marines with Delta Company, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 5 ensure those people receive proper care.
Members of Delta Company, known as ‘Outlaw,’ patrol through the area, ensuring the civilians are receiving the funding to keep their livestock, sheep and accessories stocked and fed so that they may continue to sustain themselves while also benefiting the future of Iraq.
“We’re here to establish the demographics of the Iraqi populous in order to aid our counterinsurgency missions,” said Sgt. Nick J. Vaughn, a scout team leader with Delta Company, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. “We help the people to help that mission.”
While operating in the outskirts of Rutbah, Iraq, the Marines guarantee the presence of Coalition forces is welcoming. They greet the residents, making certain the area is clear of danger while handing out water, food and collecting feedback on livestock and supplies needed for the crops or sheep.
“I have never have had a better feeling of mission accomplishment than when I help out the people,” said Sgt. Carl J. Woods, 24, a scout squad leader from Virginia Beach, Va., with Delta Company.
When the Marines aren’t supporting the farm lands, they are assisting local schools by delivering books, supplies and furniture for the children.
“It’s great to be able to lend a helping hand, open ears and a kind heart toward the people of Iraq,” said Lance Cpl. Nathan T. Klink, a scout with Delta Company. “Having a kind heart towards the children is the best because the simplest things like giving them a pen makes their day.”
Outlaw is scheduled to visit a local school soon to deliver tables and school supplies to the children. According to Marines with the company, they will conduct more missions to assist the citizens in order to make a difference.
“I always wonder if I have left an impact on this world, because that is my life-long goal,” said Klink, 21, from Harford City, Ind. “I’ve always wanted to do something to where people will remember me.”
He concluded operations like these help him believe he could do just that.