“They’re not hearing the other side”
That’s what I heard a young man say this week about the American public’s view of the war in Iraq. He had just returned from service in Baghdad, and wanted to talk about the work going on there that never makes the news.
Here’s just one story from that side.
CAMP FALLUJAH — Marines here are preventing violence by showing genuine interest in the welfare of the local citizens they are charged with protecting.
Instead of just kicking down doors outside Camp Fallujah, Marines are trying to open doors and dissolve the cultural barriers between them and Iraqis.
An example of this policy is the recent initiative by some female Marines to encourage positive relationships fostered on mutual respect and observance of cultural differences.
The Marines stepped away from service-support roles, left the base and became part of the Marine Corps Female Search Team.
“(Using the FST) shows that we are trying to accommodate (the Iraqis), and make an effort to abide by their moral code,” said Cpl. Jennifer B. Holt, 25, from Clay, Ala. Cultural studies show males and females do not generally interact physically in public. By using the FST, Marines put Iraqis at ease by remaining sensitive to their traditions.
Today is the birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps. The Forum celebrates them and their service.
USMC, thank you, one and all, and your families with you.
0 Comment
Although I’m sure the FST is a wonderful thing, this is NOT the function of the United States Marine Corps. If what the Iraqi’s need is “fostering of mutual respect and observance of cultural differences”, then let the army civil affairs units handle that. And, don’t even get me started about women in combat zones.
Marines do two things better than any other branch of the military. Kill people and blow things up. Leave the touchy, feely stuff to the others.
I’d also like to thank you for your birthday wishes for me and my fellow brothers and sisters in the Marines. This is a very special day for us and we celebrate it proudly.