2009.02.07
06FEB09--Tigeris Fishing
Today, Sergeant 'KC' Connaughton and I visited the Iraqi Army's new boat ramp to the Tigeris River. Looking out onto the river, I could not help but imagine having a fishing rod in hand.
Down on the water, KC and I sat in one of the Iraqi boats and talked about fishing trips of years past, particularly of him with his family. All the while I was thinking that, if it was my job to overwatch the ramp and I was a younger Soldier, I would surely bring a pole. We walked back up the ramp to investigate.
As it turns out, they had had a fishing pole earlier in the day. Sergeant Brian Parker of Norfolk, Virginia saw them using it. However, they were spotted by an Iraqi officer, who stormed over and took their pole away.
You might be thinking, 'Of course, they should be working.' But, no. This is not the officer's justification at all.
In recent times of violence, dead bodies were dumped into the Tigeris river. Fish nibbled on these bodies. Therefore, the fish are forbidden as food to Muslims (according to the officer). He took the pole saying, "The fish will die in a few years. You can fish then."
As surprised as I was about his response, I was more puzzled. Could they not just catch and release.
Sandbags line the center of the ramp down to the Tigeris River. Soldiers overwatch from the hut on the right.
Sergeant 'KC' Connaughton imagines fishing for bass.
Everything seemed nice and quiet on the river. Soothing.
Interesting response from the Iraqi officer.
Regardless, seeing the earlier pictures you posted of the garbage lining the land, I don't think I'd want to get my feet in the water much less eat anything living it in. That's a bit more than the agricultural run-off that most people in the states worry about.
Comment by Ed S. — February 10, 2009 @ 4:04 pm