The Samarra and coalition force leadership hold a joint press conference about the improved security and economic opportunities in Samarra. The majestic Maqam Ghaybat Shrine reopened, Sept. 30, 2008, after over two years of silence, allowing Shia worshippers to pray in the early morning. Picture left to right, 2nd Battalion, 327 Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division Commander Lt. Col. JP McGee, Mayor Mahmood Khalaf Ahmed, Samarra Operation Center Commander Maj. Gen. Rasheed Flahe Mohammed and local Sons of Iraq leader Abu Mohammed Suhail Al Abassi.