Multi-National Corps – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20070122-13
Jan. 22, 2007

Transition of Authority ceremony marks progress of Iraqi battalion
Multi-National Force – West PAO

AR RAMADI, Iraq – The 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 7th Iraqi Army Division officially took charge of independent operations in west Ramadi during a ceremony at Camp Ali Jan. 22.

This is the third battalion in the 1st Brigade, 7th Iraqi Army Division to assume authority over another area in the city during the past five months, signifying the continued progress of the brigade.

The 2nd Battalion commanding officer, Col. Khalid, said after the ceremony the transfer of authority was the result of the cooperative effort with the Coalition Forces’ Military Transition Team.

“They are serving our country in a great way and I am very grateful to them,” he said.

The Coalition Forces Military Transition Team under 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, acted as advisors to the Iraqi battalion staff in training and operations.

Marine Lt. Col. William Jurney, battalion commander for 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, spoke during the ceremony and praised Col. Khalid’s leadership as well as the ability of the Iraqi soldiers.

“We are proud of the progress this unit has made,” Jurney said after the ceremony. “I believe they are capable of conducting security operations against those Anti-Iraqi Forces who want to do further harm to the people of their country.”

Marine Lt. Col. James Bailey, the Military Transition Team Leader for 1st Brigade, 7th Division, said the Iraqi battalion is very capable and will continue to work with Coalition Forces and Iraqi Police.

“They’ve been performing magnificently … We’re already seeing positive things happen in the battle space,” he said. "It means progress for the city of Ramadi and Iraqi security forces.”

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