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Iraqi National Guard assume command of FOB Rough Rider
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FOB ROUGH RIDER, Iraq (10/7/2004) — Forward Operating Base Rough Rider has been the home for Task Force Mountaineer since March 2004. However, last Wednesday this military camp near the ancient city of Mandila was transferred to the 206th Battalion of the Iraqi National Guard (ING). Task Force Mountaineer, comprised mainly of units from the 1st Battalion, 150th Armor, and other elements of the 30th Brigade Combat Team have been the guardians of FOB Rough Rider since they arrived in Iraq seven months ago as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom II. “This ceremony supports the fact that the ING is ready and able to perform their mission for the new Iraq”, said Lt. Col. Gregory Wilcoxon, Commander, 1st Battalion, 150th Armor. “I’m confident that B Company, 206th ING is capable of providing security from this location for the people of Iraq” continued Wilcoxon. This predominantly agriculture community in eastern Diyala continues to benefit from the close relationship between local government leaders and the Multi National Forces (MNF). The bridge that connects the local leadership is a weekly Security Committee meeting held with each of the local Mayors, ING representatives, Iraqi Police Chiefs, and Coalition partners. Results of the meeting have been a sharper focus on infrastructure improvements and a generous sharing of information relating to security issues. The ceremony at FOB Rough Rider was attended by the Governor of Diyala, Dr. Abdullah Shahad al-Jabur, as well as Mayor Abas Hussein of Mandila, Mayor Mohammad Maroof Hussein of Balad Ruz, and several other community leaders, Sheiks, Iraqi Police Chiefs, and representatives from the Department of Border Police. Also in attendance at this special ceremony was Brig. Gen. Dan Hickman, Commander, 30th Brigade Combat Team. According to Hickman “This ceremony marks another milestone in Iraq’s progress towards security and stability. “Iraqi security forces are bringing peace to Iraq. They have gained the confidence and competence to destroy the enemy within Iraq and will pursue them with determination. We will continue to fight along side them as partners towards our common goal of peace in Iraq” concluded Hickman. Governor Abdullah Shahad al-Jabur said after the ceremony “The Coalition is doing a marvelous job training our people and setting good standards for the ING, while building a new Iraq. We know they are risking their lives helping the people of Iraq”. The 206th Battalion of the ING has been well trained and is composed of dedicated Soldiers willing to protect all Iraqi citizens. Many of the ING Soldiers and Officers have been trained by MNF partners, as well as attended military training programs offered by the MNF at the Kirkush Military Training Base. Jointly the MNF and the ING have been conducting patrols in Diyala for some time. Additionally, the ING has been provided patrol vehicles, radios, and emergency medical training from the MNF. “We feel very grateful for the help of the United States”, said Lt. Col. Ali Khaki, Commander, 206th ING Battalion. “The United States removed the worst dictator on the earth. We will never forget what the United States did for us”, continued Khaki. ING Soldiers have a tremendous responsibility in the new Iraq and take significant risk against insurgents. Some may wonder what motivates Iraqi citizens to join the ING. “Some people join to prove themselves. For me, it was a chance for me to do something for my country, to protect Iraqis that have a new chance” said Khaki. Last 10 Stories |
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2004 National Guard Bureau |
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