Iraqi Special Operations Forces Soldiers cast vote early, stand ready to defend democracy

Courtesy Photo | An Iraqi Counterterrorism Task Force soldier proudly displays his ink-stained finger after voting early in Baghdad, Iraq, Jan. 28, for the upcoming provincial elections. More than 2,000 Iraqi Special Operations Forces soldiers, to include the ICTF, took the opportunity to vote at a special polling center at their headquarters since many of them may be on duty on Election Day.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

01.31.2009

Courtesy Story

Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - Arabian Peninsula

Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Arabian Peninsula

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Iraq's most elite soldiers stand ready to defend the democratic process after being afforded an opportunity on Jan. 28 to vote a few days early for the upcoming Iraqi provincial elections.

More than 2,000 Iraqi Special Operations Forces soldiers cast their ballot in a special polling center established at their headquarters in Baghdad.

"We brought the voting station to the soldiers," said the director of election commissions at the ISOF voting center. "We're proud of these soldiers, for what they do for Iraq ... we will stay as long as it takes to give everyone the chance to vote."

The night prior, ISOF leadership briefed each battalion on the voting process and encouraged each Soldier to "vote with their hearts ... and vote for those that will help you and your country," said Maj. Gen. Fadhil Barwari, ISOF brigade commander.

Beginning at 7 a.m., soldiers stood in a long line eager to get their chance to vote.

"This is a good feeling," said a 22-year-old ISOF soldier from Baghdad waiting to vote in his first election. "I will vote for the person that will put Iraq first."

Another ISOF soldier reflected on democracy and how it gives everyone the right to vote for whomever they choose. "There is no pressure, no persuasion ... it's democracy, it's freedom," said the 26-year-old Soldier from Nasiriyah.

Many Soldiers conducted missions the night prior, but delayed going to bed so they could vote, according to an ISOF battalion commander. "They are tired, but in good spirits ... many of my Soldiers would never miss this opportunity regardless of their fatigue."

More than 500 early voting centers were opened prior to the Jan. 31 election to allow Iraqi security forces and a few other segments of the population an opportunity to vote. More than 14,000 candidates are vying for 440 seats on provincial councils throughout the country.

Election officials were pleased with the ISOF turnout and one volunteer marveled at witnessing democratic history taking place before him. "This is how we will shape our country," said a Baghdad professor serving as an election officer. "We must participate and stand on our own."

• Date Taken: 01.31.2009
• Date Posted: 01.31.2009 20:15
• Story ID: 29501
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ