Long Knives discuss elections in Southern Iraq

By Spc. Rebekah Lampman, 4th BCT, 1st Cav. Div.December 29, 2008

Lt. Col. Nathan Cook, executive officer for the 4th BCT, 1st Cav. Div. , listens to General Habib, 10th IA Div. commander, as he talks to Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces about the upcoming elections during a conference at Camp Dhi Qar, near the c...
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CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq - Leaders from Independent High Electoral Comission-Iraq, U.S. Coalition forces and the Iraqi Security Forces met Dec. 18 at Camp Dhi Qar, near the city of Nasiriyah, to discuss important issues regarding the upcoming elections.

"The Iraqi Security Forces are prepared and ready to secure the elections," said Lt. Col. Nathan Cook, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division's executive officer. "The Long Knife Brigade and the provincial reconstruction teams are here to partner with and assist the ISF to make this a successful election."

The PRTs discussed various non-governmental organization plans for voter education sessions and town hall meetings with provincial, tribal and religious leaders from southern Iraq. The organizations plan to educate the Iraqi citizens as much as possible so that they can make an informed decision during the elections.

The ISF also discussed the security plans for the polling stations in Dhi Qar and Muthanna; ballot movement to and from polling sites; and early voting for the ISF.

"I'm confident we are going to have a safe and successful election," said Maj. Gen. Michael Oates, the commander of Multi-National Division - Center.

The ISF has additional conferences scheduled throughout January to ensure the legitimacy and safety of the elections.