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Iraqi Joint Forces Chief of Staff Visits Iwo Jima

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS081218-09
Release Date: 12/18/2008 12:54:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- Iraqi Joint Forces chief of staff and Commader Task Force (CTF) 51, visited multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) in the Persian Gulf.

Gen. Babakir Al-Zibari along with other senior Iraqi military officers and CTF Commander, Rear Adm. Kendall Card visited Iwo Jima to gain a better understanding of how the U.S. Navy conducts operations as well as learn more about naval capabilities and technology used at sea.

"The purpose of this visit was to enhance our existing relations and to discuss any shortfalls in our navies," said Babakir. "It is great to see the latest in technology."

Capt. Brian T. Smith, commander, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), elaborated on the importance and need for continual cooperative relationships.

"Our maritime strategy emphasizes the need for increased global cooperation to promote global peace and prosperity," said Smith. "This visit helps build stronger relations between the U.S. and Iraqi military services, making future cooperation as well as global security and stability easier to achieve."

During the visit, the guests toured Iwo Jima's medical facilities, talked with Sailors and Marines in the ship's hangar bay and visited the ships' well deck to see the landing craft air cushioned from Assault Craft Unit 4. Afterwards, the guests also observed flight operations.

"We have common interests and share common ground with the U.S. Navy and Marines," Babakir said. "Their presence, as well as ours, is essential in the Gulf since it is a very sensitive area. The Iraqi Navy and Marines rely on the United States for training, and I wish all the best to the U.S. Sailors and Marines."

Iwo Jima is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to conduct maritime security operations (MSO). MSO helps develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

For more news from Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group, visit www.navy.mil/local/iwoesg/.