Newsletter #6
This week in Al Kut, Iraq, my platoon and Operation Soccer Ball have continued to spread joy and bring smiles to kids in Iraq. In just a week’s time, we have visited 3 different schools, a medical clinic and dozens of neighborhoods. This week, Operation Soccer Ball took part in a soccer game, another historic event for the city of Al Kut. 11 Soldiers, including myself and 2 other soldiers from my platoon, played a soccer match in the middle of the city against the Iraqi Police. Again , as a sign of good faith we took off our ballistic armor, dropped our weapons and played the world’s game with our Iraqi counterparts. This was a big deal for the Iraqi participants and such a milestone for US Forces. Operation Soccer Ball donated balls to so many kids in the area this week. This program is getting balls out to kids everywhere and accomplishing so much. We have distributed over 200 balls this week!! In the coming weeks I am looking to triple that and even sponsor some teams in the local area. Thanks so much for your ongoing support. - Daniel Merritt -