Uncertainty remains as U.S. hands over responsibility for ‘Sons of Iraq’

[unhappycamper]

A local sheik bids farewell to Pfc. Nathan Hotz, left, and Spc. Cody Henry, both soldiers assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, after collecting his portion of "Sons of Iraq" payments at a school near Inskandariyah, Iraq. The Iraqi government will begin funding the SOI in North Babil Province starting in March.


Uncertainty remains as U.S. hands over responsibility for ‘Sons of Iraq’
By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Wednesday, February 11, 2009

HAMIYA, Iraq — One "of the storm clouds on the horizon" that top U.S. officials in Iraq have often cited is how the "Sons of Iraq" program will transition from U.S. to Iraqi control. But of larger significance is what will happen when the "Sons of Iraq" program is phased out entirely, which could happen in six to nine months.

Only 20 percent of the members nationwide are expected to be incorporated into either the Iraqi army or police. That leaves roughly 80,000 men, who have been handling weapons and providing security, without steady, monthly pay.

What will those serving in the "Sons of Iraq" do when the program is dissolved?

"That is the $1 million question," said Army Capt. Brian Weightman, commander of Company B, 1st Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment. "We’ll see on that."

Weightman paused noticeably before continuing.


Rest of article at: http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=60620