In the small village of Marina, in northern Iraq, multinational forces have completed $35,000 worth of renovations on a clinic that now sees 40 to 50 patients daily. The clinic opened its doors in December.

Mayor Majeed Said Salih said the support his town has received from multinational forces has been overwhelming. “The people see the good work that is coming from multinational forces and are more inclined to support a progressive and democratic Iraq,” Salih said.

Crowds of adults and children from the village gathered around to see the grand opening of their newly renovated health clinic. In a village that has so little, this clinic gave the town a new hope for a prosperous future, Salih said. The 426th Civil Affairs Battalion oversaw the renovation of the clinic, which included upgrading equipment, painting walls and installing crystal-clear windows.

“It gives me great pride to be a part of this opening ceremony and to cut the ribbon for such an important facility within the town,” said Spc. Celeste Mayhew, member of the 426th. “The people of Marina have always greeted us with open arms and happy, smiling faces. Now we can rest assured that they will now greet us with happy, healthy smiling faces.”

Source: PortalIraq