Victory in Iraq Caucus Welcomes America’s Heroes: Unfiltered

Today, members of the Victory in Iraq Caucus heard an unfiltered report from an American Hero who is currently serving in the United States Army. SSG Christopher Bain spoke to members and Congressional staffers about his experience in Iraq. Additionally, Mr. James Crum of the U.S. Army discussed the reconstruction efforts taking place throughout the country. "Although U.S. troops are protecting American families and making tremendous progress in establishing a civil society in Iraq, the mainstream media rarely provides a complete report of their efforts," said Congressman Wilson. "Today's briefing was a wonderful opportunity for us to hear a soldier describe his experiences in his own words. SSG Bain and Mr. Crum delivered an honest and refreshing message about Iraq, and I am extremely appreciative of their visit," said Congressman Joe Wilson. "Unlike much of the doom and gloom reporting we hear in the mainstream media, the reports this morning gave us a very personal, very real perspective on the progress of our efforts in Iraq. These brave men, along with all the courageous Americans working for a free and democratic Iraq, know what it will take to get the job done because they've fought the battles and achieved the successes that will carry us to victory. Their first-hand accounts are a tremendous asset to those of us in Congress who are responsible for providing the tools necessary to support the outstanding work that is occurring in Iraq," said Congressman Mark Green. Information from the Briefing SSG Bain joined the U.S. Army in February 1993. After serving in Iraq for four months, he was injured while traveling in a convoy to Camp Anaconda on April 8, 2004. During the briefing, he discussed his battle experience, the democratic elections in Iraq, and U.S. soldiers' efforts to help Iraqi children. Additionally, he answered questions from members of Congress regarding force protection needs and the training of Iraqi security forces. Mr. James Crum serves as the Director of the Project Contracting Office in Washington for the Iraq Reconstruction Mission. His current duties focus on supporting and managing program execution of approximately $12 billion in reconstruction activities for Iraq. While speaking to the group, he highlighted completed reconstruction projects that are currently benefiting Iraqi citizens: • 240 Police Facilities• 115 Border Posts• 40 Military Base Projects• 765 Schools • 96 Potable Water Projects• 23 Postal Facilities• 66 Electricity Distribution Projects*For a complete Iraq Reconstruction Update, please see the attached document. *Please see the attached photo of SSG Bain and Mr. Crum at the America's Heroes briefing. ###