Posted on 08/08/2008 3:55:08 PM PDT by SandRat
FORWARD OPERATING BASE FALCON — The “Warriors” of 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, achieved a significant goal in July by officially transferring authority of a sizeable portion of the Rashid district to their Iraqi Security Forces counterparts.
In doing so, the Warriors, attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, facilitated the transition of responsibility from Coalition forces to ISF, and supported the MND-B mission to set conditions for transition in Iraqi security self-reliance.
“Transitioning authority to the Iraqi Security Forces in accordance with MND-B goals has been a top priority,” said Maj. Mark Olin, operations officer for the 2nd Bn., 4th Inf. Regt.
The area houses an estimated 50,000 residents and is home to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Division.
The two forces have been together in the Doura neighborhood for more than eight months. The two units have also conducted joint training, shared intelligence, and executed combined missions since the Warriors assumed responsibility.
“When we first started working with [the NPs] they were just loosely banded together,” said Pfc. Neil Hafter, infantryman. “Now they are organized and do their own patrols … even the way they handle their weapons has improved.”
The Soldiers have now assumed an over watch role that allows them to continue to supervise, mentor and assist the area’s Iraqi National Police, and to ensure the enduring success and enhancement of current capabilities, said Capt. Parsana Deoki, commander of Company C, 2nd Bn., 4th Inf. Regt.
“As we continue forward to over watch, our roles as observers increase,” said Deoki. “We are there to support the National Police as needed, but give them the freedom to conduct their daily mission.”
By providing a 24-hour presence throughout Doura, the NP mollified the district’s renowned sectarian violence and coordinated attacks by 78 percent from April 2007 – 2008, said Olin.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.