Yarbrough Assumes Command of Iraqi Assistance Group

IRAQ

07.02.2007

Courtesy Story

28th Public Affairs Detachment

Spc. Stephanie Homan
MNC-I PAO

The Iraqi Assistance Group welcomed a new commander when Brig. Gen. James Yarbrough assumed command from Brig. Gen. Dana Pittard during a change of command ceremony, June 30, at Camp Victory.

Yarbrough, an infantry officer, has deployed to Grenada and Afghanistan and has served oversees in Korea and Italy. He comes to his new command from 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan., where he served as the assistant division commander.

Pittard leaves the IAG to take his knowledge to Fort Irwin, Calif., to assume command of the National Training Center.

Presiding over the ceremony was Maj. Gen. James Simmons, Multi-National Corps-Iraq deputy commanding general. He wished Pittard farewell and thanked him for a job well done during his 12 months of command. He welcomed Yarbrough to the team, confident that the "wealth of knowledge" he brings to the unit will "impact it almost immediately."

In his parting comments to the attendees, Pittard spoke about the importance of the teamwork involved to get the mission done. He ended the speech by recognizing the Iraqi army, the importance of leadership participation and how important Iraq is to him.
"Part of my heart will always remain with Iraq," Pittard said.

As the new commander, Yarbrough said he is honored to join the corps to continue strengthening the Iraqi security forces.

"I believe in this mission," he said. "This is a decisive period for all of us, and it is a privilege to join this team and contribute to building a stable, free and proud Iraq."

• Date Taken: 07.02.2007
• Date Posted: 07.02.2007 07:21
• Story ID: 11063
• Location: IQ