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Iraqi Air Base opens 3 new facilities

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Randy Redman
  • 321st Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
New Al-Muthana Air Base, Iraq --  The Iraqi Air Force held a ribbon-cutting ceremony here Dec. 11, to open three new facilities, including a communications building, a communications equipment facility, and a medical clinic.

Tech. Sgt. Amy Everhard, New Al-Muthana Air Base Transition Team member, was on hand to assist with equipment installation and testing for the new communication buildings, as well as to see the finishing touches put on the structures. She and other Transition Team-mates traveled throughout the country to test the connections back to NAMAB.

"Actually being able to see and participate in the success of the ribbon cutting ceremony was fantastic," said Sergeant Everhard. "Seeing Iraqi Air Force being built up, if only one building at a time, really highlights that we do see the fruits of our labors."

Sergeant Everhard said the communications equipment facility houses the start of a robust network infrastructure which adds to the NAMAB ability to provide Iraq-wide computer network connectivity. As it stands, much of the IqAF must rely on hand-carried letters for official correspondence. The ability to communicate via email means productivity can rise exponentially.

Sergeant Everhard went beyond the call of duty and put a personal touch on the buildings by adding flowers shipped in from her mother back in the United States.

"Having been on a traveling team here in Iraq I have visited several different locations. One constant is that the IqAF at all locations seem to use posters with tropical scenes and tropical flowers. I gathered and delivered small congratulation bouquets to each location before the ceremony started," she said. "I look forward to seeing how the arrangements are put to good use beautifying the new buildings."

Master Sgt. David Smith, NAMAB Medical Advisor, said the medical facility took several years to complete. His involvement over the past 11 months helped put the finishing touches on the largest, most capable medical facility in the entire Iraqi Air Force. The center has state-of-the-art equipment, technology, and the capability to house patients for extended periods.

In addition, the emergency room in the new building will allow the IqAF to care for various traumatic injuries without having to rely on any outside agencies.

"For three years the Iraqi medical personnel have stared at that building wondering and waiting for the opportunity to work there...Now that dream is a reality," said Sergeant Smith. "It's like having a child... The hope and opportunity is immeasurable! The 1200 people of NAMAB need and deserve this capability."

Brig. Gen. Scott Hanson, Director of the Iraqi Training and Advisory Mission - Air Force and Commander of the 321 Air Expeditionary Wing, said he is confident in the Iraqi Air Force's ability to bolster their infrastructure.

"Projects like these are the embodiment of Operation New Dawn, and are the reason why American forces are here," said General Hanson. "The fully operational capacity of these facilities marks another milestone towards developing a self-sustaining Air Force for Iraq."