Posted on 04/18/2003 11:30:22 PM PDT by HAL9000
BAGHDAD (AFP) - American marines had packed their bags and were ready to vacate the Iraqi capital late Friday with the army's Fourth Infantry Division (4ID) expected to move in and take over control of the city, military sources said Friday."We're expecting to leave tonight," said one marine, who did not want to be named. "The 4th ID will be in charge by Saturday."
The marines who had packed their bags are based around the Palestine and Sheraton hotels where the international press corps and marine hierarchy are based. They were expected to be part of a gradual pullout of Baghdad.
A US public affairs officer earlier said the marines had received orders to leave Baghdad by April 22. Some were pulling out Friday, others by Saturday.
A 30,000-strong task force from the 4ID is flowing into Iraq from Kuwait to ensure security is re-established across the country.
This includes mopping up the remnants of Saddam Hussein's die-hard Fedayeen militia and suicide bombers, who have claimed the lives of eight US soldiers in three blasts since the war began on March 20.
The 4ID's rules of engagement are still designed for combat.
The US army, which has already deployed its Third Infantry Division here, made its first appearance in a civil role Wednesday with a senior officer meeting local leaders and police officials to discuss the security situation.
Unlike the marines, the army is traditionally responsible for civil affairs issues such as rebuilding security and water and electricity systems.
History shows that this is where it starts going bad.
Keep the prayers coming, everyone.
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