ISF guards borders with Long Knives assistance

By Pfc. Terence Ewings 4th BCT, 1st Cav. Div. PAOJuly 28, 2008

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AMARAH, Iraq - Iraqi Security Forces are working with Coalition forces to interdict criminals and smugglers at the border near Amarah. Soldiers from the 2nd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division continue to build their relationship with ISF and follow their lead in securing the border.

"We observe and interact with our Soldiers everyday to ensure they are effectively partnering with the Iraqis," said Command Sgt. Maj. George Zamudio. "This partnership requires a lot of trust, and I think our Soldiers are rapidly building a strong bond with this unit."

Zamudio is the squadron's senior enlisted leader; he aids the squadron commander, Lt. Col. Edward Bohnemann, in assisting the ISF to defend Iraq from smugglers and criminals.

Bohnemann explained the ISF are effectively controlling the threats in Maysan Province, and the Americans are aiding by providing combat support.

"All our operations here are Iraqi-led, it's essential to the mission that we keep the ISF in the forefront," said Bohnemann.

The squadron operates out of a large sports stadium while partnering with the 38th Iraqi Army Brigade and local Iraqi Police units in Maysan Province.

"This squadron is the frontline defense to the negative influences coming from Iran," Bohnemann said. He added that the ISF are proactive in coordinating and following-up on their anti-improvised explosive device and weapon cache-finding investigations.

The capture of multiple high-level criminals is deterring others from making roadside bombs and improves morale for the both Iraqi and American Soldiers, said Bohnemann