DIYALA — The small Diyala province village of Jiaffra was once a stronghold for insurgent groups, causing village residents to flee for their safety.  After three years of displacement, 16 families returned home to a celebration marked with music and dancing, Aug. 15.

During the celebration, residents thanked Iraqi and U.S. forces for their help in bringing safety back to the area.

Though there are still struggles in the village for some basic needs, Iraqi government officials promised during the celebration to immediately bring the villagers water and work on providing other necessities as soon as possible.

“What a great day for Diyala,” said Maj. Chris Hyde, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division spokesman.  “It’s wonderful to not only see these people come home, but know that they would not have been able to do this if the security hadn’t improved enough to for them to do so.  I think it’s a testament to the enormous improvements Iraqi and U.S. forces have collectively achieved in making the region and province a safer place.”