Posted on 12/25/2006 6:47:19 AM PST by mdittmar
FOB TIGER — The 2nd Iraqi Army Division, commanded by Maj. Gen. Jamal, assumed independent authority to control all actions in their battle space during a transfer of authority ceremony Dec. 18 at Forward Operating Base Tiger in Mosul.
“This ceremony marks a special time in the 2nd Iraqi Army Division’s history,” said Maj. Gen. Randy Mixon, commander, 25th Infantry Division. “This day also signifies the last [Iraqi Army] division to assume Iraqi Army lead in Multi-National Division – North, and the 2nd Iraqi Army Division will fall under the control of the Iraqi Ground Forces Command on Jan. 15.”
The ceremony consisted of Command Sgt. Maj. Stephan Frennier, command sergeant major, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, removing the 4th BCT colors from the flag stand, making way for the placement of the 2nd Iraqi Army Division colors.
“Today we recognize that the 2nd Iraqi Army is fully capable and ready to take over security operations in Mosul and Ninewa Province,” said Col. Stephen Twitty, commander of the 4th BCT. “We applaud your bravery and courage, standing in the face of the enemy and defeating the terrorists.”
Jamal espoused the 2nd Iraqi Army Division’s origins as well as referencing its future responsibilities now that it was in the lead. “This division was established on Oct. 23, 2004, when there was still a state of much lawlessness. We rose to the responsibility of fighting the terrorists as well as simultaneously outfitting the division with materials and equipment. Together with the [Iraqi Police} we have carried on fighting terror, day and night, and providing security for Mosul.”
Successful completion of the three-day validation exercise, dubbed Operation Lion Assault Dec. 4, removed the final hurdle toward full autonomy of operations and independence of maneuver in their own battle space.
Jamal praised the support and assistance offered by Coalition Forces in standing up the division and offered continued mutual support and assistance to the Coalition Forces whenever they needed it.
While celebrating the 2nd Iraqi Army Division’s new authority, Jamal took a moment to renew their pledge to the citizens of the Ninewa Province. “Terrorists have been at work attempting to ‘kidnap’ Iraq. They target and kill the scientists, the teachers, and the thinkers; attempting to divide us along sectarian lines. Brothers and friends, it’s time to track down and kill the terrorists. Mosul is a city of a civilization blessed by God. Let us pray to God to bring security and stability to all of our country.”
The ceremony concluded with a presentation of gifts to the Iraqi Army commanders, tribal leaders, distinguished guests, and government officials, as well as a full-coarse meal served to the rear of the presentation hall for all those in attendance.
Wait, I thought we were losing!
prayers and best wishes for them
Is this just part of the provinces?
I believe with this transfer, the Iraqi Army is now responsible for all the Northern provinces.
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