We've been working hard to help the Iraqi people in An Najaf and Al Qadisiyah provinces and the results are showing. So far, more than 250 projects have been completed or are currently underway, totaling nearly 10 million dollars in both provinces combined.

In addition to these projects, we are busy making solatia, or condolence payments, to citizens of Najaf who experienced property damage of their home or business, injury, or death of a family member during August's fighting. We have paid more than 5,800 Iraqis approximately 3.7 million dollars. These payments are creating goodwill and building trust between us and the locals.

Citizens of both provinces are also currently registering for the January elections. So far, everything is running smoothly and we are happy to see the Iraqi people moving one step closer to taking charge of their country and their future. We also recently celebrated the Marine Corps' 229th birthday with the traditional ceremony and birthday meal of steak and lobster.