Greywolf brigade breaks Ramadan fast with Iraqi police chiefs

Photo By Spc. Sharla Lewis | Members of the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division command team met and dined with local Iraqi police chiefs, Aug. 31 at Forward Operating Base Diamondback. The evening Ramadan meal was hosted by the U.S. forces to maintain stable relations with the local police.  

MOSUL, IRAQ

09.03.2009

Story by Spc. Sharla Lewis 

3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division

MOSUL, Iraq — Iraqi police chiefs from throughout Ninewah province and 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division gathered at Forward Operating Base Diamondback for an evening "break-fast" Ramadan meal Aug. 31.

The meal was a gesture of friendship by 3rd HBCT, who provided food and drinks comparable to what the police chiefs would have eaten had the meal occurred in their own homes.

"The food for the meal was provided by a local vendor and consisted of some special items including dates, balaclava and a couple different kinds of soups," said Lt. Col. Chuck Armstrong, the executive officer for 3rd HBCT.

Col. Gary Volesky, the commander of 3rd HBCT, chatted with his Iraqi friends about various topics over tea and balaclava.

Ramadan, a 30-day period beginning the day of the first waxing crescent moon in which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset each day, is meant to teach patience, modesty and spirituality.

According to Abdul Saleh, a Muslim from Sheikan, located north of Mosul, individuals are encouraged to refrain from eating, drinking, smoking or other ill-natured indulgences throughout the day. Saleh also said that families often gather in one home and hold their evening meal together.

Participating in the religious observances of the IPs was more than just a nice gesture. Activities like these reinforce current relations between local Iraqi security forces leaders and the U.S. forces that share their soil.

"What is especially important is the relationship between the IP and us. We want them to know that they are part of the team, and how critical that importance is," Armstrong said.

• Date Taken: 09.03.2009
• Date Posted: 09.03.2009 13:49
• Story ID: 38332
• Location: MOSUL, IQ