Oklahoma National Guard unit assumes base security at Bucca

Courtesy Photo | The 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry from Stillwater, Okla., prepares to take charge of base defense for Camp Bucca, one of the largest forward operating bases and the largest detention facility in Iraq, Feb. 25. The 179th will conduct security patrols and work with the Iraqi population in surrounding towns to improve their security and also help with humanitarian assistance missions, such as helping to build schools and deliver vital supplies. (U.S. Army photo/Staff Sgt. Carlos D. Vinson)  

UMM QASR, IRAQ

03.01.2008

Courtesy Story

Multi-National Force Iraq Public Affairs

CAMP BUCCA, Iraq — The 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry from Stillwater, Okla., assumed command of base security at Camp Bucca in southern Iraq during a transfer of authority ceremony Monday.

The Oklahoma National Guard unit will be performing external patrols in the area of operations and maintaining security at the forward operating base, which houses the largest Theater Internment Facility in Iraq.

Brig. Gen. Robert Hipwell, commander of the 300th Military Police Brigade, which is responsible for Camp Bucca, said that the 1-179th arrived with a well-trained group of Soldiers to perform their sensitive mission. The 300th trained with the 1-179th at Fort Bliss, Texas, during fall 2007.

"You [the 1-179th] will continue to raise the bar at Camp Bucca and take up the flag," Hipwell said.

Lt. Col. Mark A. Pilkington, commander of 1-179th, said his unit's mission at Camp Bucca was clear. "We work with the Iraqi security forces and the Iraqi people to make this area, and thus Camp Bucca, safe," he said.

The 1-179th was activated Oct. 19, 2007, and completed its pre-mobilization training at Fort Bliss in the months leading up to their movement to Iraq.

"The security situation is complex," said Pilkington. "But our motto is 'Always Ready.'"

• Date Taken: 03.01.2008
• Date Posted: 03.01.2008 07:47
• Story ID: 16863
• Location: UMM QASR, IQ