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MND-S commanding general speaks at EOD memorial
Tuesday, 07 April 2009
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq – Maj. Gen. Michael L. Oates, commanding general of Multi-National Division-South, spoke at a memorial service at Al Faw palace on Camp Victory April 6, honoring six explosive ordnance disposal Soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty during Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom in 2008.
“It’s appropriate for us to get together every year and recognize those in our community who work day-in and day-out and unfortunately make the ultimate sacrifice serving other service members,” said Oates. “We are enormously grateful for what you do and humbled by your sacrifice every day.”
The service included a color guard, the singing of the National Anthem, a Soldier Memorial, the playing of Taps in honor of the fallen and remarks by several EOD professionals. The event concluded with a slideshow in memory of the fallen service members, followed by a call for donations for the EOD memorial at Eglan Air Force Base, Fla., which will feature 268 names after the addition of the six service members who gave their lives in 2008.
“We couldn’t perform our duties without you,” said Oates. “As an American citizen I’m enormously thankful for what you do, and I know I speak for my British and Australian counterparts. It’s incredible that you continue to come back and do this year after and year.”
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