36th ID transfers authority of USD-South to 25th ID: United States Division-South becomes USD-Central commanded by Maj. Gen. Bernie Champoux, 25th Infantry Division

Photo By Spc. Brittany Gardner | Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, U.S. Forces- Iraq commander, expresses pride in the outgoing 36th Infantry Division's accomplishments while serving as United States Division-South's headquarters since December during a transfer of authority ceremony Sept. 7 at Contingency Operating Base Basrah.  

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, IRAQ

09.07.2011

Story by Spc. Brittany Gardner 

362nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq - Maj. Gen. Eddy M. Spurgin, commander, 36th Infantry Division, and Command Sgt.Maj. Wilson Early, 36th Infantry Division, cased the colors Sept. 7 during a ceremony at Contingency Operating Base Basra signifying the completion of their division’s mission and the transfer of authority to the 25th Infantry Division.

The transfer of authority from the 36th Infantry Division Texas Army National Guard unit to the 25th Infantry Division active-duty unit out of Hawaii was the last event held by United States Division-South, which will now be considered United States Division-Central.

Attending the transfer of authority ceremony were U.S. ambassador to Iraq James Jeffrey, Basrah Consul Gen. Piper A. W. Campbell, members of the Iraqi parliament, government of Iraq leaders, Iraqi general officers and soldiers from the 36th and 25th divisions. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, U.S. Forces- Iraq commander, spoke during the ceremony about the 36th division’s success since arriving to COB Basra in December.

“The accomplishments of United States Division South, under the able leadership of the 36th Infantry Division and Maj. Gen. Eddy Spurgin, have set the conditions for continued progress in southern Iraq; progress that can lead to Iraq overcoming challenges and indeed seizing opportunities,” said Austin.

During Spurgin’s remarks, he expressed pride for commanding USD-South for nine months as they “managed over 740 civil-support projects revitalizing Iraq’s economy, improving its infrastructure, as well as improving its judicial system and its rule of law.”

The 36th Infantry Division helped Basrah establish one of the largest consulates in the world, which will continue to help in the civilian-led effort in Iraq, said Spurgin.

The 36th Infantry Division also set the conditions to reposture U.S. Forces in Iraq and closed 18 bases and nine Provincial Reconstruction Teams, said Spurgin. Working hand-in-hand with Iraqi security forces to help train and advise their military operations have led to great successes as the Iraqi forces skills significantly improved, he said.

“I truly believe this team made historically significant contributions that will help create a brighter future for the people of Iraq; improving the environment so democracy can flourish and the people can prosper,” said Spurgin.

Spurgin and Austin both expressed confidence and trust in Maj. Gen. Bernie Champoux, commander, 25th Infantry Division, during their speeches.

“The U.S. forces’ mission in southern Iraq is not ended,” said Spurgin. “Finishing the mission will be Maj. Gen. Bernie Champoux and the great Tropic Lightning Division, a division as well-known and highly regarded both throughout the United States and the country of Iraq.”

The transfer of authority to the 25th Infantry Division not only signifies the completion of the 36th Infantry Division’s mission, it is also another sign that Operation New Dawn is coming to an end, said Austin.

“You know, normally when we farewell one division we welcome another into Iraq,” said Austin, “but today’s ceremony marks a significant milestone as Operation New Dawn begins to draw to a close in honor of our commitment to the security agreement. And thanks to the tireless efforts of our teammates across Iraq, the plan for our departure remains on track.”

During his speech, Champoux thanked the 36th division for their tireless commitment and professionalism and expressed his intent for what is no longer U.S. Division- South, but is now U.S. Division-Central.

“As we press forward together, the U.S. mission will transition to an increasing focus on civilian-led efforts that continue our deep commitment to Iraq and to its people,” said Champoux.

Spurgin and approximately 700 soldiers mobilized with the 36th Infantry Division served in Iraq through their redeployment in September as they returned to Texas.

• Date Taken: 09.07.2011
• Date Posted: 09.12.2011 01:57
• Story ID: 76855
• Location: CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, IQ