Since ISIS took over Mosul in the summer of 2014, Spirit of America has steadily invested over $80,000 into the Peshmerga, the Kurdish military force that is fighting and stopping ISIS. Our latest contribution consisted of urgently needed Individual First Aid Kits (IFAK) for frontline Peshmerga soldiers as they take the fight to the terrorist organization with the backing of U.S. trainers and advisors. The ability for a military unit to provide frontline first aid to its members is a combat multiplier. Beyond saving lives, the provision of first aid means that soldiers marching into battle knowing that their peers could save them if wounded, fight harder and are willing to move further forward away from rear bases where resources are typically concentrated. Their morale is also higher. SoA recently provided 100 IFAKs to Peshmerga soldiers. These units are conducting continuous operations along a 650-mile border separating Iraqi Kurdistan from ISIS controlled territory. According to Peshmerga Major Sagvan of the Zeravani regiment, “The IFAKs will greatly increase our ability to treat on the battlefield, and with the supplies and training, we will have the greatest chance to save a life.” Before distribution of IFAKs, the Peshmerga received training on using the medical supplies competently during combat. This course of instruction included group classes as well as individual hands-on training. The effect was on the unit was immediate. Dr. Sardar, assigned to Dohuk Regiment, noted that “Medical supplies are limited, therefore limiting the medical ability to properly sustain life. With these IFAKS and medical training our medical forces are given the best chance to decrease wartime casualties.” Your support of Spirit of America is making a life-saving difference in the struggle against extremism. Thank you. Zack Bazzi Middle East Field Operations Manager