By Pfc. Parish, Timothy T.15th MEU
CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE — The candy coated grins on the children’s faces were matched only by the smiles of the Marines handing out the treats.
The 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) Marines supplying the dusty refugee camp outside Camp Korean Village, Iraq were greeted with glowing eyes and high-fives, and the sound of little feet dancing around the gift-bearers.
Each month since June 2005 the same scene occurs as a convoy of Marines and Sailors has left the wires of Camp Korean Village to travel a few kilometers down the road. Their destination is a dusty outpost next to a gas station that houses 140 Sudanese refugees who have been displaced for over a decade.
These missions foster amicability and build bridges between Coalition Forces in Al Anbar Province and local nationals, according to Lt. Col Henry M. Hyams, Commanding Officer, Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th MEU (SOC). “I think in the process of transitioning over to the Iraqi government and to the Iraqi Army forces, it’s an important part to show good will,” he said.
The 15th MEU (SOC) has taken on the mission of caring for the refugees. The 15th MEU (SOC), in cooperation with relief organizations, supplies the refugees with pre-packaged meals and bottled water.
(Photo: Lance Cpl. Katherine L. Davis, motor transportation, Combat Logistics Battalion 15, hands out candy to children at a Sudanese refugee camp as part of a resupply mission outside Camp Korean Village, Iraq.)
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