Haitham Ali Kadhem cuts a ribbon to signify the reopening of the Baghdad Al Jadida swimming pool during its grand reopening. Photo by Staff Sgt. Brian Lehnhardt.

Opening just in time for the hot months of summer, the Baghdad al Jadida pool is the first of three to be opened in the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), operating environment.

“The attendance of so many members from both the community and security forces marks a big step forward toward the cooperation needed to establish a meaningful peace in this area,” commented Lt. Col. Scott McKean, battalion commander for 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, attached to 4th BCT, 10th Mtn. Div., MND-B.

Many Iraqi government officials, religious leaders and Sheiks turned out for the grand opening, which signals the continued commitment from the government of Iraq to take responsibility for the betterment of its citizens.

“It was an excellent ceremony, and the sheiks (are) very appreciative of all the effort that went into the renovation of the pool and the ceremony,” said Sayyid Abdul Hadi al Jazairy, a prominent Imam from Baghdad al Jadida, who was the featured speaker and plays a large role in reconciliation. “We hope for continued positive events in the future.”

Local contractors and laborers worked together to revitalize the Baghdad al Jadida pool to provide the community a fun and safe place to socially interact.

“The renovation of the pool with Commanders Emergency Relief Program funds assists the government of Iraq in a return to normalcy for the civilian populace and, as a joint effort, became a major non-lethal offensive,” said Maj. Jeffrey Smith, civil military operations officer in charge for the 4th BCT Patriot Brigade.