Joint Security Station Salmyiat returns to the Ministry of Transportation

Photo By Lt. Col. Allen Hing | Col. Todd McCaffrey, of Hudson, Ohio, and commander of the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division-Baghdad, receives a bouquet of flowers before the transfer ceremony of Joint Security Station Salmyiat, northwest of Baghdad at a ceremony Feb. 5.  

TAJI, IRAQ

02.06.2009

Story by Canadian Forces LCol Allen Hing 

2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division

By Maj. Al Hing
2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – As a furtherance of the Security Agreement, the Soldiers of the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division–Baghdad, transitioned control of Joint Security Station Salmiyat, northwest of Baghdad, to the Iraqi Ministry of Transportation in ceremony Feb. 5.

JSS Salmyiat once housed a rail and rail car production facility, which are now idle. The transfer of JSS Salmyiat is more than a symbol of returning control of facilities to the Iraqi people; it provides capability in production and employment.

"This is a great day for Iraq," said A'mir Abdl Al-Jabbar Ismael, Iraqi Deputy Minister of Transportation. "One of the most modern facilities to produce rail ties in the Middle East will bring many jobs to the Iraqi people. The production facility will also produce sleeper cars that will transport the Iraqi people on the "backbone of transportation" in Iraq."

The Security Agreement between the Government of Iraq and the United States is a milestone for Iraq and "Warrior" brigade Soldiers.

"Today marks an important and visible milestone in application of the security agreement," said Col. Todd McCaffrey, commander, 2nd SBCT, 25th Inf. Div. "In passing control of this JSS to sole Iraqi control, we see a small but very important application of the agreement."

McCaffrey reiterated his brigade's commitment that coalition forces will continue to be part of the sustained security that facilitated the security agreement.

"Our brigade has forged deep and lasting relationships with the people of Salmiyat and Agur Quf, and while we depart this JSS, we will remain partnered to assure continued security throughout this critical area.

• Date Taken: 02.06.2009
• Date Posted: 02.06.2009 15:07
• Story ID: 29736
• Location: TAJI, IQ