BAGHDAD, Iraq - On May 19, the 6th 'Saber' Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, United States Division " Center and their Iraqi partners, the 4th Federal Police Division, reviewed the completion of repair projects conducted at two local schools in Baghdad.
The two schools were damaged from the war and years of neglect. Through the partnership between the 6th Sqdn., 9th Cav. Regt. and the 4th Federal Police, these schools were identified and selected for repairs in an effort to improve the learning conditions of the several hundred children that attend these two schools. The two repair projects provided new windows, lights, desks, chalk boards and other basic school supplies to the two schools.
However, the presence of the Iraqi media during these visits to the schools offered a unique opportunity to relay an important message about the efforts of the 4th Federal Police to the people they serve.
"It is important that the Iraqi people living in the 4th FP area of operations see that they are a capable and professional unit that can provide for their basic needs such as these school projects," said Lt. Col. Cameron Cantlon, Commander of 6th Sqdn., 9th Cav. Regt., and an Ettrick, Wis. native.
As the members of Saber and the police toured the two schools, the media asked direct questions about the role of the United States in current and future security operations.
"The task of providing security to the Iraqi people is fully in the hands of the Iraqi Army and Police. Our partners, the 4th Federal Police, are very capable to meet the needs of the local people and we are confident in their abilities," said Cantlon in response to a question from one of the Iraqi media.
Saber Squadron is currently serving as the U.S. Forces - Iraq operational reserve in Baghdad, and has been partnered with the 4th FP since February. Since the beginning of their partnership, the two units have worked closely to enhance the security capabilities and presence of the police through various training programs and projects such as these two school repairs.
"The 4th Federal Police is very dedicated to providing security and any other basic needs to local people such as these school repairs. I am very confident they will continue to succeed and effectively provide to local population after we leave," said Cpt. David Hanna, commander of B Troop, 6th Sqdn., 9th Cav. Regt., and a Montrose, Colo., native.
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