US troops and their local government partners made significant progress in defeating the Islamic State by successfully dismantling the terror organization. The US-led Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, made up of 79 international partners, operated directly alongside Iraqi Security Forces to recover territories in Iraq formerly held by ISIS. Nonetheless, ISIS maintains a low level of insurgency and aspirations to rebuild and reconquer. Considering the terror group’s ambitions, US troops in Iraq remain focused on countering terrorist activities.

The key to long-term success against ISIS is ensuring that Iraqi Security Forces are increasingly capable of leading counterterrorism efforts. As a result, US Special Forces have directly trained their Iraqi counterparts. But despite Iraqi Special Operations soldiers’ commitment to meeting this challenge, they lack the essential medical equipment required to render life-saving aid, including paramedic bags, first aid kits, and stretchers.

Filling this gap will strengthen the relationship between US Special Forces deployed in northern Iraq and their Iraqi counterparts, and it will save lives. And because US troops will train proper use of the medical supplies with their Spanish Special Operations Forces coalition partners, the equipment will strengthen the relationship between US Special Forces and a vital partner.

With your support, Spirit of America will provide medical supplies to the Iraqi Special Operations Forces. Combined with medical training from US troops, this equipment will ensure that Iraqi Special Operations soldiers can perform life-saving measures as they continue the difficult mission to eliminate ISIS and protect local citizens.