By Sgt. Shawn Miller
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq – After 13 months in command, Maj. Gen. Anthony Cucolo, commanding general of Task Force Marne and the 3rd Infantry Division, relinquished control of U.S. Division-North to 4th Infantry Division Commanding General Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins and the Soldiers of Task Force Ironhorse, Nov. 4.
Gen. Lloyd Austin, commanding general of Unites States Forces-Iraq, attended the transfer of authority ceremony at Contingency Operating Base Speicher as the reviewing officer, and offered his thanks for the accomplishments of the “Dog Face” soldiers of Task Force Marne.
“We endeavor to help Iraq achieve national unification, build effective institutions and foster constructive relationships with other countries in the region,” said Austin. “The Marne Division has played a critical role in setting the conditions to make this happen.”
Austin praised the efforts and cooperation of American soldiers and their Iraqi colleagues, who in the last year have trained and mentored the Iraqi security forces as Operation Iraqi Freedom transitioned to Operation New Dawn.
“Our vision is an enduring partnership with a sovereign, stable, self-reliant and unified Iraq that contributes to the peace and security of the region,” said Austin.
Austin also said there is no commander more fitting to follow Cucolo than Perkins, adding that the easy transition between the two headquarters was the hallmark of a successful transfer of authority.
Cucolo joined Command Sgt. Maj. Byron Lloyd, acting command sergeant major of Task Force Marne, and together the command team ceremoniously cased the colors flowing with campaign steamers, an act signifying the end of their responsibility to U.S. Division-North.
The mission complete, Cucolo thanked the Iraqi security forces, to include the Kurdish security forces who secure the northern borders of Iraq, for their professionalism and continuing support of U.S. forces.
“At this moment of departure, I owe my gratitude to many for their support,” said Cucolo, thanking the brigade commanders, soldiers and Iraqi leaders.
Speaking before a crowd of commanders, dignitaries and officials, American and Iraqi alike, the outgoing commander expressed his appreciation for the units under his command and thanked the soldiers of Task Force Marne for their service.
“Task Force Marne’s time in U.S. Division-North was a mix of grey ‘Wolves’ and ‘Blackjacks’, ‘Dragons’ and ‘Arrowheads,’ ‘Demons’ and ‘Lightning’; groups of ‘Warriors’ and ‘Spartans;’ an outfit that is ‘Ready First,’ a handful of ‘Devils,’ and a passel of very sharp ‘Long Knives;’ and of course, ‘Dog Face’ soldiers – the finest crosscut of American society in uniform,” Cucolo said proudly, referring to the call signs of the many units that served under his command across the provinces of northern Iraq.
Once the remarks were complete, Perkins, accompanied by Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey, the senior enlisted leader of the 4th Inf. Div., completed the time-honored military tradition, unfurling the “Ivy” Division colors and signaling the beginning of a new chapter in the history of U.S. forces in Iraq.
The solemn act signified the beginning of Task Force Ironhorse’s new mission to advise, train and assist Iraqi security forces in their ongoing mission to provide security and stability for the people of northern Iraq.
“I can assure you that the staff of 4th Infantry Division and U.S. Division North will do all we can to partner with you and move ourselves forward,” said Perkins, thanking Austin for the opportunity to command the division.
The accomplishments and gains made by Iraqi forces are inspiring, Perkins said, and pledged his continuing support to them.
“The eyes of the nation and the world are upon you now as we continue to beat challenge after challenge,” Perkins remarked. “I can assure you that the 4th Infantry Division and U.S. Division-North will be your greatest partners in this.”
As Perkins assumed command of the division, he took a moment to thank the departing general for his partnership and service.
“I will endeavor to maintain the gains you have accomplished and continue to display inspired leadership, and use you as an example,” said Perkins, wishing Cucolo and his Dog Face soldiers Godspeed, their tour at an end.
“Our nation owes you a debt of gratitude, and once again, you have helped determine the destiny of our nation and the world.”
The soldiers of the 4th Inf. Div. deployed in early October from Fort Carson, Colo., in support of Operation New Dawn.