18th Airborne Corps says goodbye to Iraq

Courtesy Photo | Gen. George W. Casey Jr., Multi-National Force - Iraq commander, was present at the ceremony and gave a few words of praise to the out going 18th Airborne Corp and a warm welcome to the incoming 5th Corp.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

01.19.2006

Courtesy Story

DVIDS Hub       

Story by Cpl. Laura E. Ruscio
MNC-I PAO

CAMP VICTORY, Baghdad, Iraq " Servicemembers gathered in front of Al-Faw Palace Jan. 19 to witness the Transfer of Authority between the 18th Airborne Corps and the 5th Corps.

Lt. Gen. John R. Vines, 18th Airborne Corps commanding general, relinquished command of Multi National Corps - Iraq to Lt. Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli, Task Force Victory commanding general, during the ceremony.

The 18th Airborne Corps arrived in Iraq January 2005. While serving as the Multi National Corps " Iraq, the servicemembers conducted operations to defeat terrorism and neutralize negative influences, creating a secure and stable environment for the Iraqi people.

During their tour, the Corps witnessed the Iraqi Security Forces increase from 130,000 to nearly 230,000 trained and equipped troops representing 10 Iraqi Army divisions and Ministry of Interior Forces which currently enables the growing force to independently control 50 percent of Baghdad.

Also, the Corps conducted stability operations to support the establishment of government, playing an essential role in three successful Iraqi elections.

With the assistance of the 18th Airborne Corps, the Iraqi Army developed one division, eight brigades and 37 battalions which now work alongside coalition forces for 80 percent of the security missions conducted.

The Corps" troops assisted with the restoration of essential services and economic development in order to set the conditions for a transfer of sovereignty and operations to 5th Corps.

During the ceremony, Gen. George W. Casey Jr., Multi National Forces " Iraq commanding general, thanked the 18th Airborne Corps commander and his troops for their unwavering dedication and praised them for the great accomplishments achieved throughout their tour.

"I attribute the great progress across Iraq in large measure to the spirit of teamwork and partnership," Casey said.

"To the departing [servicemembers], well done. The 18th Airborne Corps made a difference in Iraq and we are justifiably proud of the accomplishments."

Also, Vines spoke to the guests about the accomplishments made during the past year and the pride he has from serving with outstanding troops.

"The [troops] who deserve the large share of credit are the young men and women who today, right now as we speak, are operating across Iraq. They have bloodshot eyes from too little sleep and from watching the terrain for possible enemies. Those are the real heroes today," he said.

In closing, Vines welcomed the incoming commander and his troops to Iraq, wishing them success during the upcoming months.

"We will never forget Iraq and the things that have happened here. We will say a prayer for your safety, peace and success."

The 5th Corps serves as the Army's forward-deployed corps and is headquartered at Campbell Barracks in Heidelberg, Germany. The Corps will assume command of MNC-I.

The 18th Airborne Corps will return to Fort Bragg, N.C., where it will continue their service as a strategic crisis response force.

Editor's Note: Cpl. Laura E. Ruscio is a member of the 27th Public Affairs Detachment from Fort Drum, NY and is currently supporting MNC-I.

• Date Taken: 01.19.2006
• Date Posted: 01.19.2006 12:48
• Story ID: 5156
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ