Yesterday three senior officers from the Guantanamo Bay Joint Task Force testified before the House Armed Services Committee on the protection of detainees' religious practices at the GTMO military detention center. An article from the American Forces Press Service summarized the testimony.
Command Sergeant Major Anthony Mendez testified that a loudspeaker at the camp signals the Muslim "call to prayer" five times a day. Those who choose to can take advantage of the prayer caps, beads and oil given to them. They can pray toward Mecca in the direction designated by arrows painted in each detainee cell and all common areas. For good behavior, they get traditional Islam prayer rugs as well. Every detainee is issued a personal copy of the Koran.
Army Brigadier General Jay Hood said they respect Muslim dietary practices, only serving food permitted under Muslim law and flying in Halal certified food. During Ramadan, meal schedules are adjusted to meet fasting requirements. Detainees are offered figs and honey at appropriate times.
