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CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait (November 22, 2008) - The
red carpet was rolled out here for Kuwaiti royal family members and
dignitaries for an evening of sports and dining during Kuwaiti
Appreciation Day November 22, 2008.
The celebration, designed to show appreciation for the support
from Kuwait and its residents from 1991 to our current operations
with the war on terrorism, included a soccer game between a Kuwaiti
and US team followed by a formal dinner with the distinguished
guests.
Army Lt. Gen. James J. Lovelace, Commanding General, USARCENT,
welcomed the guests and expressed our Military's gratitude for
their hospitality and support.
"It's a real pleasure to have our friends, our comrades, our
hosts here today," Lovelace said, "The Kuwaiti people have been
gracious hosts and supporters of US Military operations: a staging
point for forces and equipment rotating in and out of theater, and
I cannot overstate our appreciation for your hospitality."
Kuwaiti Maj. Gen. Khalil Y. Al-Shamali, Deputy, Operations,
Ministry of Interior, commended the efforts by the US troops in
preparation for the celebration as well the general's gestures of
hospitality and camaraderie.
"This feeling is overwhelming because it makes me feel like we
are united as joint forces," Al-Shamali said. "We are working
together for the safety of Kuwaiti and US forces as well as that of
the people of both countries."
Lovelace praised the commitment and strong relationship that has
grown between the US and Kuwaiti people.
"Our work together over the years has been powerfully important
to the security of the region," Lovelace said. "We have continued
to share ideas, further our relationships, and work towards a
common vision of the future."
The celebration continued with a soccer game between a Kuwaiti
team represented by members of their national squad and the "Blue
Devils," a team comprised of the 311th Sustainment Command
(Expeditionary) and 1st Sustainment Command (Theater) Soldiers.
After an intense game the Kuwaiti team walked away with a 3-0
win. The two teams exchanged a signed soccer ball, and through the
language gap praised one another's skill on the soccer field.
This was the second game between the two teams, now tied with
one win apiece. The future is certain to hold more celebrations
with both teams anticipating a tie breaker.
Although the US team took a loss on the soccer field the
celebration was a success, and the already firm relationship
between the US and Kuwait was further strengthened.
"As I look at the Kuwaiti and US flags flying together I see
them as a part of one, and I hope to forever see our countries'
friendship grow," Al-Shamali added. "May God bless the US forces
and bring them safely to their families."
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