School Receives Supplies, Toys and Medical Attention

By Maj. Sean Ryan
Multi-National Division, Baghdad

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq - A hero's welcome was given by the students of Al Toma Elementary School in eastern Baghdad to the soldiers of the 3rd Tank Battalion, 1st Brigade, 9th Iraqi Army Division and their Military Training Team. These soldiers, combined with troops from 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, partnered up to give back to the community.

The partnership units provided school supplies, water, toys and medical support to the faculty and students May 14.

The goal of Operation Toma was to provide much-needed support to build better rapport with the students and the neighborhood, according to the tank battalion commander. This was the first time Al Toma Elementary has received support, but the third in the partnership between 3-1-9th Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces.

The commander, the proponent for the support drive and an Iraqi soldier for 21 years, said he feels residents in the neighborhood support the Iraqi Army, but he said he must continue building enduring relationships. Also, he said, by supporting the school and providing supplies, it helps the neighborhood.

The staff and students were very excited to see the soldiers.

The students lined up to receive the supplies off the truck and take them into the school. After the supplies were delivered, each classroom was visited. Photos with the Iraqi commander and students were taken while 'Beanie Babies' were handed out.

Approximately 500 stuffed animals were handed out to appreciative students according to Sgt. 1st Class Dana Lescoe of Fort Riley, Kan. Lescoe gets contacted by agencies wanting to support the mission, and for this operation, a Boy Scout Troop from Buda, Ill., provided the toys.

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