Henry's Web Log

Our Iraqi Friends
For those new to my blog, the military in Iraq requires a LOT of logistics support! Part of my job is to ensure convoys arrive, download, upload, and depart efficiently as the Basra base grows. While the U.S. is fully equipped to do this mission, it’s in everyone’s best interest if we make maximum use of the businesses and citizens of Iraq. Logistics is a great place to do that!

Several Iraqi logistics companies are involved in transporting our supplies, and they are doing an excellent job! Early reports said the Arabic culture really doesn’t include the kind of time synchronization we’re used to in the military, but I want you to know, the drivers running our equipment are all about being on time, minimizing everyone’s wait (including their own), and getting the job done!

Note in above photo: Iraqi driver supervising the loading of his truck, and a British soldier (bending down) inspecting the vehicle.


Why are the Iraqi truck drivers breaking from tradition and becoming great at time management? Well, we pay them for one. Good old capitalism works! We treat them with respect, and we show our appreciation for a job well done with repeat business.
In the continuity of Full Spectrum Operations, we’re at the tail end: transitioning a former battlefield into a self-sufficient economy through stabilization and reconstruction. Our weapons are more carrots than sticks: the economy, infrastructure, media and politics. Certainly we’ve got our heavy arms nearby, but what really makes this work is instilling a desire to succeed in this country.
It’s working, too. I get to have dinner from time to time with the pilots who have been here for almost a year. They tell me that from the air, it is clear that what was once a quiet ghost town has come alive with citizens moving around, shopping, working and making Basra the thriving metropolis it should be.
Furthermore, last month’s general election bore this out. The citizens voted for the leaders who have a vision for infrastructure and growth. The Seattle Times did a great Op Ed piece that sums up the election situation:
Give Iraq Credit for Holding an Election that Butresses Democracy