Airmen help neighbors through Operation Iraqi Child

  • Published
ALI BASE, Iraq (AFNEWS) --  Members of Air Expeditionary Force 5 and 6 are reaching out to their host nation neighbors while lending a helping hand through Operation Iraqi Child.

"Many members of AEF 5/6 have voiced the desire to help the Iraqi people outside the gates of our base," said Chaplain (Capt.) Christine Blice-Baum of the 407th Air Expeditionary Group.

The idea is a joint effort between the chaplain's office and the local Office of Special Investigations detachment.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for us to join together and make a difference in the lives of the Iraqi children," Chaplain Blice-Baum said. "Even if we cannot go 'outside the wire' to distribute the donations, our thoughts and prayers will be with the OSI agents who distribute them on our behalf."

OSI members developed a list of items to distribute to the Iraqis and Bedouins. Ideal items include children's chewable vitamins, new or nearly new children's clothing, new blankets and dry, non-perishable food in boxes or well-sealed bags or cans such as rice, cereal or canned goods that do not require reading directions to prepare.

"With the help of Airmen here connecting with generous and caring Americans back home, I believe Operation Iraqi Child will demonstrate our compassion and support to the Iraqis in their challenging transition to a free society," Chaplain Blice-Baum said.

(Courtesy of the 407th Air Expeditionary Group Chaplains Office) 

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