March 7, 2010, marked the second Iraqi national elections since the fall of Saddam's regime in 2003.
"In 2003, things were very different. Circumstances were tough. We were living under martial law and our government was weak," said Maj. Mohammad Ghassan Mohammad, operations officer for the 2nd Battalion, 32nd Iraqi Army Brigade.
The overall lack of violence the recent Election Day produced, however, was regarded by many observers as a great success for the Iraqi Security Forces, who now bare the primary responsibility for security in the country.
"Things have quickly changed to bring us to where we are now. We have laws and enforcement. We have a much stronger government and we are going to keep moving forward at 100 percent," Mohammad said.
Wasit province had high voter participation, with more than 60 percent of the people eligible casting a ballot. The Iraqi government selected 277 polling sites throughout the province, ensuring there were sites close and accessible to all participants.
Part-way into Election Day, a ban on vehicle traffic was lifted due to successful security measures. This meant people voting in the afternoon could drive to the polls with fewer restrictions.
In Wasit Province, Soldiers from the 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, aided agents from the Iraqi Department of Border Enforcement, the Iraqi Army, and local and Federal Iraqi Police in the days leading up to Election Day.
As part of the 3rd HBCT's role as an advise and assist brigade, Troopers from B Troop, "Blackhawks,", 3rd Sqdn., 1st Cav. Regt. and their Iraqi partners identified the possible threats and worked together to solve any issues prior to the elections.
Teams of U.S. military working dogs swept the highest-risk sites to ensure they were free of hidden explosives, and Unmanned Arial Vehicles operated by Soldiers from each troop in 3rd Sqdn. provided additional surveillance.
"We are here in case we are needed to help ensure a fair and safe election process is held," said 1st Lt. Thomas Matthews, B Troop, who was assigned to one of many Joint Operations Centers for Election Day.
"Blackhawk" Soldiers provided supplementary quick reaction forces at a number of strategic locations across the province. They also assisted by providing communications and technical assistance.
"A good sense of accomplishment always encourages you to keep doing what you are doing," Matthews said.
That upbeat attitude is one the Iraqi Security Forces share.
"The Iraqi people did not understand democracy during our first election. Now they are aware of their responsibilities and are taking the time to research before voting," Mohammad said. "This makes me feel very good about our future."
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