Multi-National Corps – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20080227-04
February 27, 2008

MND-N Soldiers increase protection at Balad mosque
By Sgt. Daniel Blottenberger 
18th MP Bde. PAO, MNC-I
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – At the request of the Imam of the Balad Shrine Mosque, soldiers of 2nd platoon, 164th Military Police Company, 728th Military Police Battalion, 18th Military Police Brigade and Multi National Division – North visited the mosque Feb. 24 to increase force protection measures.

The idea is to prevent future attacks on the mosque. The soldiers were the first Coalition forces to visit the mosque.

Following eight months of working with the Imam and other local religious leaders, 2nd platoon has developed a good working relationship with the community’s religious leaders and is frequently asked to provide additional security assistance during events near the shrine, according to Capt. Matthew Norris, commander of the 164th MP Co.

Soldiers, Iraqi police and National police in Balad have worked together to place approximately 160 protective barriers around the mosque. 

Sgt. 1st Class Stephen Wogomon, a Leesville, La. native and platoon sergeant for 2nd platoon, said, “The soldiers received many favorable comments from the Iraqi police and local populace who continue to see the Coalition forces working with the Iraqi security forces to improve security in Balad.”

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