Detroit-based Marines helping rebuild Iraq

by Lance Cpl. Stephen McGinnis

When Marines want the straight scoop, they get out on the street and talk face to face with Fallujans.

Sgt. Tylor A. Belshe, a 28-year-old contracting manager assigned to 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment's Civil Affairs Group detachment hands out school supplies to students at an all-girls' school in Fallujah. Belshe, from Fort Collins, Colo., and other Marines handed out notebooks, book bags, pens and pencils to the students. (photo by Lance Cpl. Stephen McGinnis)

Marines from 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment's Civil Affairs Group detachment patrolled the streets of Fallujah to speak with local citizens Oct. 31. They spoke to Iraqis about how they feel about Marines in their city and what Marines can do to improve conditions.

"You don't want hearsay, you want to get a good feel from the people on the street," said Gunnery Sgt. Michael R Abragan, a 30-year-old CAG team chief from Stokie, Ill.

The civil affairs detachment from 4th Civil Affairs Group is working alongside the battalion's Marines, who are serving with Regimental Combat Team 5.

Marines patrolled through the city, taking time to stop at various market stands to speak with citizens. Marines were able to get a first-hand idea of what the people living in the city felt they needed to help improve their quality of life.

"It's good to find out what the population thinks as to what we are trying to accomplish and show we are trying to rebuild the city and make sure they have the supplies and funding to do that," said Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Justin Posey, a 34-year-old hospital corpsman from Virginia Beach, Va., assigned to the civil affairs detachment.

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