NEWS RELEASE
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND
7115 South Boundary Boulevard
MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101
Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894
September 6, 2003
Release Number: 03-09-06
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
IRAQI WORKERS, COALITION SOLDIERS RESTORE MOSUL'S ZOO
MOSUL, Iraq - Quartermaster soldiers assigned to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) along with 42 Iraqis have taken on the mission of restoring the Mosul City Zoo.
Although the unit's primary mission is to issue bulk fuel to the 101st Airborne Division, the soldiers of the 102nd Quartermaster Company, with the help of Iraqi citizens have cleaned up the grounds in and around the zoo.
The project gives the Iraqi workers, many of whom are former soldiers, a way to support their families while empowering them to get involved with rebuilding their community. As the Iraqis and 101st soldiers work together to clean the grounds and cages they share their experiences, allowing the opportunity for cultural exchange.
The Mosul Zoo had fallen into severe neglect with more than half of its animals dying due to lack of food, water and care. The primary water source for the zoo is an antiquated well, which became contaminated when the remains of a horse fell into it. Undergrowth surrounded the cages, which became littered with dead animals, dirt and debris. Weather, neglect and looters caused degradation to the electrical wiring and lighting fixtures leaving the overall facility's condition in shambles.
Now that the grounds are cleaned, major repairs are underway. These include cleaning and sanitizing the old well, digging a new well and installing a new water distribution system. Wiring and lighting will be next and then the buildings will receive a fresh coat of paint.
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