Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Iraq: On Ground Updates - June 30, 2009

Iraq: On Ground Updates
U.S. Led War in Iraq is OVER!
Today marks the day of complete withdrawal of Us Troops within Iraq’s Major Cities - Some Troops left behind for Support Rolls only
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
.
Historic Day for Future of Iraq

An Iraqi flag and American flag fly side by side during the turnover ceremony of Multi-National Force - Iraq, Combat Outpost Power in the Aden District of Mosul, June 7th.
File photo by Senior Airman Kamaile O. Chan, Joint Combat Camera Center - Iraq

BASRAH - Today is an important day for the people of Iraq. In accordance with Article Five of the Security Agreement between the United States and the Government of Iraq signed in Baghdad in November of last year, Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) are now responsible for securing their cities.
.
"As of today, U.S. combat forces will turn over the security of cities to Iraqi Security Forces, and begin a period where our primary security role is one of training, mentoring and advising the ISF," said Maj. Gen. Rick Nash, commander, Multi-National Division-South. "Today's ISF is capable, ready and dedicated to keeping the people of Iraq safe."
.
Nash praised the dedication of the ISF as well as the proficiency of the U.S. and Coalition forces, and attributed the successful implementation of the Security Agreement to their actions.
.
"Iraq's successes and significantly improved security are a testament of the ISF's progress and its dedication to Iraq's sovereignty," said Nash. "The Iraqis have made strides in their ability to protect their citizens, and our brave Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines are doing a great job in helping them build both their security forces and their civil capacity."
.
Nash said though U.S. Soldiers will no longer inhabit the cities of Iraq, American and Coalition forces will continue to support the ISF within the parameters of the Security Agreement.
.
"Leaving the cities does not mean that we are backing off; instead, it indicates our confidence in the Iraqis to safeguard their own citizens,” said Nash. “Likewise, the Security Agreement is a tangible, positive sign of a mature relationship between two sovereign nations."
.
In accordance with the Security Agreement, U.S. forces will withdraw from all Iraqi territory by Dec. 31, 2011. Today will be remembered as a significant step toward the realization of that objective.
.
"So, on this important day of transition in Iraq, our two nations move forward together as friends, with the shared goal of the safety and security of the Iraqi people," said Nash. "I am very encouraged about the future success of Iraq."

Story by Dave Lankford, Multi-National Division-South - Taken from MNF-I website

.
……………………………………………………..…………………….

* CSMonitor.com has this good read posted up on their website today and it starts off like this… Iraqis celebrated taking back full control of their streets on Tuesday, putting on a huge display of national pride mixed with worry over the prospect of violence reigniting while US forces keep their distance…
Read the rest at link below…
Iraqis celebrate US troops' pullback
……………………………………………….
.
Iraq Takes Control of Security in Baghdad…
.

About this News Video: Iraqi forces assumed formal control of Baghdad and other cities Tuesday after American troops handed over security in urban areas in a defining step toward ending the U.S. combat role in the country.
This News Video posted on YouTube by AssociatedPress
...
…………………………………………
.
General Odierno

General Odierno briefs the Pentagon Press about June 30th transition of control to the Iraqi Government, current operations in Iraq and answers from the press. This is part 1 of 4. Watch more HERE
Multi-National Corps Iraq Public Affairs Courtesy Video
.
……………………………………………
.
Today is a day to remember for all Iraqis and Americans.
To all our men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces that have made this wonderful day possible…
THANK YOU!
And a great big Thank You goes out to all the family members who supported these Great Americans and each other.
God Bless You All…
.

Afghanistan/Pakistan, your next…
The War on Terror continues.
AubreyJ………

No comments: