Iraqi Security Forces Progress Leads to Changing Coalition Role

Defend America News ^ | Dec 28, 2005 | Army Gen. George W. Casey Jr.

[SandRat]

BAGHDAD, Iraq, Dec. 28, 2005 — Last week Iraqi Prime Minister al-Ja'fari, Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld, and I announced the decision not to deploy two brigades scheduled to come to Iraq early next year. The 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, based out of Fort Riley, Kansas, was originally scheduled to deploy to central Iraq in December to replace the 29th Brigade Combat Team. Additionally, the Baumholder, Germany-based 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, was to deploy to the Iraqi province of Diyala in November to replace the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division. The 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division will remain in Kuwait to serve as a "call-forward force," ready to deploy into Iraq should security conditions dictate. The decision, affecting approximately 7,000 U.S. active-duty soldiers, was based on the cumulative impact of the Iraqi Security Forces across the country. Specifically, two successful elections and a referendum on the Constitution were key to advancing the political process; the growth and increased capability of the 216,000 strong ISF; and the operational success across Iraq, especially in restoration of control of the borders. All of these events together allowed Coalition Forces to begin the transition to a supporting role.

This is a significant decision, and it is a step toward acknowledging sufficient ISF capability in maintaining domestic order. Not only is it a demonstration of respect for ISF capability, but it demonstrates our commitment to honor the pledge "as they stand up, we will stand down.

Although the ISF is gaining strength and capability, they will continue to be supported. Coalition Forces will still be required to provide support to ISF security operations and to lead independent operations against the insurgents who remain committed to disrupting the democratic political development of Iraq.

[SandRat]

PING!

[bnelson44]

We'll see...

[TexasCajun]

Can't wait to hear the Rats trying to take credit for this.

"Our pressure on The President is working" ...they wish.

[Calpernia]

Last week Iraqi Prime Minister al-Ja'fari, Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld, and I announced the decision not to deploy two brigades scheduled to come to Iraq early next year. The 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, based out of Fort Riley, Kansas, was originally scheduled to deploy to central Iraq in December to replace the 29th Brigade Combat Team. Additionally, the Baumholder, Germany-based 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, was to deploy to the Iraqi province of Diyala in November to replace the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division. The 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division will remain in Kuwait to serve as a "call-forward force," ready to deploy into Iraq should security conditions dictate. The decision, affecting approximately 7,000 U.S. active-duty soldiers, was based on the cumulative impact of the Iraqi Security Forces across the country.

[Alamo-Girl]

Thanks for the ping!

[SwatTeam]

This is a significant decision, and it is a step toward acknowledging sufficient ISF capability in maintaining domestic order. Not only is it a demonstration of respect for ISF capability, but it demonstrates our commitment to honor the pledge "as they stand up, we will stand down.

This is what they have been saying repeatedly since 2003. The dumocrats and MSM hear it but refuse to acknowledge it. It doesn't fit the agenda they are pushing. The agenda that will blow up in their face, I hope and pray.