As I settle into my new job here, I'm enjoying the opportunity to meet USDA employees in every agency, working across the country. I come away from each encounter more impressed than ever with your dedication, professionalism, and the great work you do for our farmers and ranchers.
Recently, I had the chance to speak with some employees with a truly exceptional commitment to service. Over a video teleconference, I met with USDA's 20 agricultural advisors in Iraq serving on Provincial Reconstruction Teams.
The work they do is difficult and demanding. It requires enormous personal sacrifice. And yet, they persevere in their efforts and are providing tremendous help to the people of Iraq.
Agriculture is the second leading industry in that country, the second largest employer, and it is crucial to the economic revitalization of that nation.
For decades, Iraq's agricultural resources and infrastructure were mismanaged and neglected, and the industry is in need of reconstruction. The Iraqi people are experienced farmers, but they lack the latest innovations in research, technology, and planting techniques that are critical to a strong industry and plentiful harvests.
Our agriculture advisors are faced with a challenge that carries overwhelming humanitarian implications.
Their work ranges from establishing farm organizations and ensuring animal health to managing natural resources and rebuilding the technical capacity to clean and maintain irrigation canals.
Our advisors provide the same extension services in Iraq that USDA is known for in the United States, as well as research, resources, and reliable advice. They are providing training and education, seed and feed, and much-needed improvements in slaughterhouses and hatcheries. They are removing barriers in connectivity and communications to help people work more efficiently.
We also discussed the current situation in Iraq. Our employees tell me security has improved, which lets them interact more with the Iraqi people, making their mission easier.
What struck me most was how much satisfaction these advisors take from their work. They mentioned repeatedly that the Iraqis they work with are generous, courteous, friendly, and really welcoming of USDA services. They invite our people into their homes.
So our advisors are confident our efforts are making a real difference. We're improving the agricultural industry, which is helping boost the economy. Our employees want the people of the United States to understand that their tax dollars are being well-spent. They are funding valuable work that is significantly enhancing the lives of the Iraqi people, as well as the stability of that country.
The work that our Provincial Reconstruction Teams are doing in Iraq today will yield benefits for years to come. The soil tilled and the seeds planted today will help build a nation that can provide food for its people and stability for its region. It reflects the truth that farmers have known for centuries: Hard work can bring about life-giving change.
I must say, it was a pleasure to hear about the work our advisors are doing and all they've accomplished. And this year we are working to be able to send another 15 technical advisors to help revitalize agriculture in Iraq. The USDA employees serving in Iraq are serving on a volunteer basis. I encourage those of you considering serving USDA in Iraq to talk to the people there now. The work is hard, and sometimes progress is slow, but the reward, both personally and professionally, of seeing your work have such meaning to so many people is priceless.
We continue to provide all the support we can for these fine men and women and their families. These brave individuals have committed a year of their lives to helping those in need, and we want to do our part to make that work as easy as possible. They mentioned they needed office supplies, so if you have any ideas on how to get them some, please let me know.
To the USDA employees serving in Iraq: thank you for your sacrifices, and thank you for your commitment to USDA's mission. Your colleagues in the U.S. are proud of you, we appreciate your hard work, and we look forward to welcoming you back home.
