Multi-National Corps – Iraq

Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory

APO AE 09342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RELEASE No. 20081217-07

Dec. 17, 2008

Lithuanian armed forces conclude mission in Iraq

By Spc. Christopher M. Gaylord

Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – The Lithuanian armed forces contingent officially brought its mission in Iraq to a close Dec. 16 during a ceremony at Al Faw Palace.

The Lithuanians have provided an infantry platoon and multiple staff officers in support of Multi-National Force – Iraq, Multi-National Corps – Iraq,  Multi-National, Division – South East and Multi-National Division – Central South since 2003.

The contingent, with the use of its infantry platoon deployed to Forward Operating Bases Delta and Echo, has provided security and a quick reaction force in support of U.S. and coalition forces. They also provided essential training to members of the Iraqi Security Forces, to include combat lifesaver training, improvised explosive device courses, MEDEVAC request instruction and driver’s training.

Brig. Gen. Michael Ferriter, deputy commanding general of operations, MNC-I, noted the success Lithuanian troops have had in regards to working with the ISF during the farewell ceremony.

“You helped create an Iraqi Security Force and you instilled in them a solid foundation of skills that are essential to the future security and prosperity of Iraq,” Ferriter said. “To Iraq’s benefit and through the Republic of Lithuania’s efforts, you have helped to ensure a higher quality of life for all the people of Iraq.”

Even Lithuanian troops themselves have seen the progress in Iraq they and other nations like their own have helped to accomplish.

“I was here from July 2006 to February 2007, and when I arrived here for my second time, there were big changes in violence and security,” said Capt. Rimas Levendrauskas, Coalition Intelligence Support Cell, MNC-I. Rimas was a staff officer who performed open source intelligence work in support of Corps. “The people here look happier.”

Levendrauskas also worked with his Iraqi counterparts from C2, Iraqi Ground Forces Command, teaching them techniques and procedures regarding open source intelligence, as well as the basics in computer and internet search engine use.

Working so heavily with the ISF and in support of coalition force security operations, Lithuanian troops can leave Iraq knowing they contributed significantly to the mission during their time on ground.

“You have allowed peace to grow in a region filled with years of violence, and you can now return to your homes knowing that you made a difference,” Ferriter said.

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