11th MEU conducts HAO in Najaf
Marine Corps News
Story Identification #: 2004112954322
Story by Gunnery Sgt. Chago Zapata
AN NAJAF, Iraq (Nov. 29, 2004) -- Marines and sailors of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) conducted a humanitarian assistance operation in Musa al Umran as Sardun, a small village on the outskirts of the city here, Nov. 27.
The operation, organized by MEU Service Support Group 11 in an effort to foster positive relations in the area, provided nearly 100 Iraqis medical and dental treatment, food, water, and soccer balls..
The majority of medical problems treated were general aches and pains, and the more routine medical issues such as runny noses, skin diseases and upper respiratory infections, according the Navy Lt. Maureen F. McClenahan, general medical officer, Medical Detachment, MEU Service Support Group 11, 11th MEU (SOC).
"It's frustrating not being able to provide long term care but I think we're still making an impact and that's what these people need," said McClenahan. "I love being able to offer the benefits of my education to the people here."
Navy Seabees also assisted local contractors in laying a foundation for the village's new primary school and constructed an animal corral for the village.
"It's a tremendous opportunity to come outside the gates and see what goes on and work on positive projects like these in an ideal environment," said Navy Lt. Brian Clapp, Detachment officer-in-charge, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 7.
According to Maj. David K. Jarvis, executive officer, MSSG-11, 11th MEU (SOC), the operation gave Marines and sailors an opportunity to go out and support the people of Najaf. They got a chance to see the faces of they people they're here to help.
"We're here to help the people of Iraq and this kind of mission allows us to foster a positive relationship that the Iraqi people and the Marines and sailors can experience," Jarvis said.
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