834 ASB fuelers provide humanitarian support
The Transportation Platoon of A Co., 834th Aviation Support Battalion is doing its part to reach out to the local communities with its own humanitarian mission.
“We really wanted a transportation mission,” said 2LT Bryan Pederson, A Co. 834th ASB Transportation Platoon Leader. “This one came available and we got it.”
The mission is a vitally important one for a local village near Joint Base Balad, Iraq.
“We periodically go out to Bikar village to deliver fuel,” 2LT Pederson said. “It helps power their water and sewage plant.”
The Air Force provides the security for the convoy traveling to the Bikar village, which is located less than a mile outside the base. It is a quick trip and a safe one. The Air Force also provides ground protection when A Co. Soldiers are offloading the fuel.
“They bring MRAP’s and HUMVW’s to escort our fuel trucks,” said PV2 Melissa Trull of A Co. 834th ASB. “But it feels safe to travel without them.”
Besides the fuel, the Soldiers reach out to the villagers in other ways.
“2LT Pederson and SSG [Rick] Culver [A Co. 834th ASB Transportation Platoon Sergeant] take the time to talk with the village mayor,” PV2 Trull said. “We deliver candy and stuffed animals to the children. They run right up to you to talk to you.”
A Co. 834th ASB Transportation Platoon mission is part of Joint Base Balad's Force Protection, which keeps them primarily inside the wire. Each month, different Soldiers are chosen to participate in the humanitarian mission.
The Soldiers appreciate the mission outside the wire, and look forward to their turn to reach out to the local community.
Story and photos by SPC Justin Adelmann, A Co. 834th ASB Unit Public Affairs Representative
10 Dec., 2008
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