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IA recognized as Patrol Base Lutifiyah changes hands
Tuesday, 12 August 2008
CAMP STRIKER, Iraq - A recognition ceremony was held at Patrol Base Lutifiyah to celebrate the 1st Battalion, 25th Brigade, 17th Iraqi Army Division's accomplishments and mark the official transfer of the patrol base from Coalition forces to the IA Aug.12.
"Today is a very special day," said Col. Abid Al Muhsin, 25/17th IA commander. "This taking of responsibility in Lutifiyah shows that the Iraqi Army is ready to protect, that the Iraqi Army is ready to fight, and that the Iraqi Army is ready to take control completely away from the enemy."
The IA and Coalition forces have been working side by side since the Iraqi rebuilding process began in 2005. The IA previously held more of a support role, but they are now easing into the lead security element.
"We celebrate the taking over of security because four years ago, this area suffered from collapse and was called a ghost city," said Staff Maj. Gen. Ali Jassim Muhammad Hassen Al Frejee, 17th IA Div. commander. "Most families here lost family members, but from support of the Coalition, we switched this area to become very secure."
In just under a year, the area has seen a near-90 percent decrease in terrorist activity, ranging from attacks to roadside improvised explosive devices.
"We call this area now an example of peace because the 1st Battalion, 25th Brigade is going to be taking over," Al Frejee said. "They will continue to stay strong and defeat the terrorists and anyone who tries to destroy (Iraq)."
A total of 18 patrol bases within the Rakkasan battle space will transition to the IA by the end of this year. The competence and capability of the 17th IA enables Coalition forces to rely on IA Soldiers to take the lead on security in this area.
"Friday (Aug.8) was our last day on the patrol base," said Capt. Manuel Gonzalez, from Olympia, Wash., Battery B commander, 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). "This is one of the most prepared battalions in the 17th IA Div.; they are ready to take over."
Patrol Base Lutifiyah is the second Rakkasan patrol base to transition from responsibility of Coalition forces to the IA.
"Remember sacrifice today as today is a day of celebration... We celebrate the bravery and hard work of these men," said Lt. Col. William Zemp, commander of 3-320th FA, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. (AASLT). "You have fought to free the people of this area from fear and intimidation, now (the IA) stands strong to protect from the corrupt and the criminal."
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