UPON TURNING IT TO CHANNEL 46, FOX NEWS PLAYS THE FOLLOWING STORY:
On 25 June 2003, a joint humanitarian effort between non-government organization IDAP and the United Nations was conducted in Baghdad, Iraq. The purpose of this operation was to distribute clean water to civilians in need. A large crowd gathered, hoping for the opportunity to obtain water for themselves and family members. It was also an excellent opportunity for coalition troops to win the hearts and minds of many Iraqis.
Troops from the 3rd Infantry Division were tasked with the mission of providing support and security for the operation. Attacks against coalition troops have increased in the past weeks despite the Saddam Hussein regime being removed from power and a transitional government installed. It is believed that a large portion of these Anti-Iraqi forces stem from Fedayeen and Ba'athist loyalists.
It was abundantly clear that security was of great importance, and that no chances would be taken.
The United Nations have been heavily involved in Iraq since the invasion in March earlier this year.
Meanwhile, others were given the task of traffic control outside the palace where the distribution took place. As you can see, these guys didn't have much traffic to worry about.
Our cameras also obtained exclusive footage of the distribution throughout the day..
..including an interview with the operation's commander, Captain Mel Ester. "It's great for the local populace to see us out here and to be able to put our faces with friendly actions, even if it's something as simple as giving them a few cases of water. Commodities that we take for granted such as clean water are a great luxury here. The smallest of actions can mean a world of difference. These people have seen nothing but oppression and tyranny for the past few decades, and nobody deserves to live like that." The entirety of Captain Ester's interview can be seen later tonight at eight.
We also obtained an interview from Specialist Adam Davidson. When asked about his opinion of the war, his response was "What do I think of U.S. involvement in the war? Well, I think we should win it".
Thankfully this show of good will did not result in violence, despite one man being detained for further questioning.
THE IMAGES AND VIDEO DISAPPEAR, CUTTING BACK TO THE ANCHOR
We will keep you up to date on new developments in Iraq the moment we receive them. Back to you for this morning's weather, Jeff.
THE CAMERA CUTS FROM THE ANCHOR AND TO THE MORNING WEATHER FORECAST