A New Beginning

The recent efforts to purge the Iraqi cities of Fallujah and Mosul of insurgents have understandably dominated media attention. Many agree that hope for Iraq begins with ridding the region of those intent on destroying the country. But another element equally vital to Iraq’s future—often overshadowed by the insurgency—involves reconstruction. America has committed $18.4 billion to improving Iraq’s badly degraded infrastructure. What has been accomplished so far in reconstruction in the context of the struggle for security? What other key challenges have surfaced and how are they being addressed? How can reconstruction contribute to a peaceful future? These questions weigh daily on the minds of those who are involved in this reconstruction endeavor. The Department of the Army, on behalf of the Department of Defense, has stepped up to provide support in answering these questions by establishing its Projects and Contracting Office (PCO) in Baghdad. The goals of the PCO are clear: to improve the infrastructure of Iraq, to boost Iraqi employment, and to build capacity by sharing information and imparting the skills that the Iraqis will need in rebuilding their nation. This article provides an overview of the Iraq reconstruction mission. It discusses reconstruction security challenges that are well documented in the media as well as reconstruction successes and the challenges that remain in establishing a better way of life for the Iraqi people.