Iraq Assistance Group Completes Mission

Multi-National Force - Iraq ^ | Staff Sgt. Luke Koladish, USA

[SandRat]

Iraq Assistance Group Command Sergeant Major Hector Davila and Commanding General Brig. Gen. Keith C. Walker, case the units colors on the patio of the Joint Visitors Bureau, Camp Victory, June 3. The function of the IAG has been merged with the Multi-National Corps-Iraq staff. Photo by Staff Sgt. Luke Koladish, Multi-National Corps - Iraq.

BAGHDAD — After more than four years of leading the Iraqi Security Force (ISF) development line of effort, the Iraq Assistance Group (IAG) conducted a casing of colors and patch ceremony here on the Camp Victory Joint Visitors Bureau hotel patio, June 3.

"On the backs of a brave few, we have labored to create an Iraqi Security Force that is now the centerpiece of our security operations moving forward.  You have done what was needed, when it was needed the most," Lt. Gen. Charles Jacoby, Multi-National Corps - Iraq commanding general, told the group of nearly 100 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines.

Jacoby said the ceremony represented a critical chapter in MNC-I's mission; it symbolized the increased partnering tempo of the entire corps.

The IAG has received, staged, moved and integrated operations for military transition teams since its inception in February 2005. The unit expanded its mission when it assumed command over National Police Transition Teams in April 2006, becoming the headquarters and principal planning staff supporting the 160,000 members of Iraqi Ground Forces Command.

"The provisions of the security agreement make the business of partnership that much more important,” said Brig. Gen. Keith C. Walker, IAG commanding general. “Our partnership is now an operational relationship between Iraqi forces and Coalition forces where all operations are conducted by, with, and through the Iraqi Security Forces."

Prior to the casing of the colors, Walker presented the IAG Soldiers with Joint Meritorious Unit Awards for dedication beyond the call of duty and significant contributions to the success of both MNC-I and MNF-I.

During the last year, IAG spearheaded the unity of effort to plan, synchronize and execute the strategic vision of 210 transition teams composed of more than 3,000 personnel across the Iraqi theatre of operations.

Because of their close work with ISF, they became a key plug-in with the Iraqi Army, National Police, Port of Entry Authority, Department of Border Enforcement and Iraqi Police service for MNC-I.

"The big vision is flashlights pointed inward and guns pointed out," said IAG Chief of Staff Marine Col. James McGinley, referring to the Iraqi Army focusing on exterior threats and the Iraqi Police and National Police dealing with domestic disturbances.

The IAG increased the capabilities of the Iraqi army by synchronizing the fielding of rifles, up-armored Humvees and radios.  IAG developed the War Fighter Training Program. This advanced training for platoon and company-size Iraqi Army units led to what is now the Iraqi Army's Warrior Training and Commando Battalion training program.

In 2009 the IAG assumed the lead role in establishing police primacy throughout Iraq. They integrated key International Police Advisors and Coalition forces personnel into existing operations, initiating a field survey of Iraqi Police services to develop the way ahead for police transition teams.

They worked with Coalition forces and Iraqi elements to provide senior advisory and mentorship to the Iraqi Police in multi-faceted projects like Major Crimes Task Force, a team that worked closely with Iraqis as they conducted crime scene investigations, analysis of physical evidence and suspect interviews.

Seven land ports of entry were upgraded to full operational capacity including installation of a traveler identification system, multiple mobile x-ray devices as well as the full-time presence of augmented Coalition forces border transition teams.

Following the casing of the colors by Walker and IAG Command Sergeant Major Hector Davila, the unit moved the Big Red One patch from their left arm to right, having earned their combat patch.

"While we end the IAG's mission, our partnership remains steadfast as we strive to assist Iraq toward a capable self-sustaining ISG that provides enduring security for the nation of Iraq," Walker said during his closing remarks.

"Sir," he said, addressing the MNC-I commanding general, "mission complete; courage."

[SandRat]

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