Al Kasik, Iraq - New Years Party

This is our small coalition group at Al Kasik

celebrating New Years with our Iraqi counterparts. Keep

in mind, we do not live like most of the other military

personnel on the large coalition bases. Our little group

lives and works side-by-side Iraqi Army and Iraqi

civilian personnel everyday on an Iraqi controlled base.

Many days for us are very unique and always educational

and cultural experiences. This evening was no exception.

In many ways it was just a simple gathering, but in many

other ways it was extraordinary. An Iraqi Army soldier

showed up with his guitar (called a tanbura) and they

danced, while we tried to join in as the bonfire was

blazing, and amazingly we had a blast without any

alcohol! Also note, what you see us puffing on is called

a Hookah Pipe. It is legal even in the US, so don't

worry, and dried fruit is what it is loaded with.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hookah
There is a much more detailed video but for purposes of viewing by family and friends, this is the 6-minute summary of our fun evening in Iraq celebrating the New Year!

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• Al
• Kasik
• Iraq

[FortKnox69]

non-alcoholic beer! mmm mmm good!

[saltychop]

djbricktop, I was the Navy OIC for the logistics team during the same period. I recognize my interpreter, Jameel aka Jimmy...and someone that looked like Shamo (the countdown guy)...awesome experience.

[thabitalyas]

ok that good party i think one of them name is kelly

[djbricktop]

I was at Al-Kasik from jan to july of '06 on a MiTT team, 80th div usar. Embedded with the IA 3rd DIV. Show of hands...who all went to Dohuk?? That was as close to taking lemons and making lemonade as it ever got in Tal'Afar, brother.

[tig505]

There in 2006...recognize lots of old faces. Looks like the Kurds are still crazy as hell.

[tkm2306]

And, you were drinking at Al Kasik? GOOD LORD!

[tyeayo]

HHHAHHAHAHA