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Last Marine operational command departs Iraq

US Marine Corps News

1/23/2010
By Cpl. Meg Murray, Multi National Force - West

Over the past six years, thousands of Marines deployed to Al Anbar province, Iraq, the largest and once most volatile province in the country.

On Jan. 23, 2010, Maj. Gen. R.T. Tryon, the commanding general of II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), transferred authority for Al Anbar from United States Force – West to United States Division – Center, filled by the Army’s 1st Armored Division. In a significant milestone in the responsible drawdown of U.S. forces from Iraq, one of the four division-level units is departing without replacement and Marine Corps deployments to Iraq come to an end. U.S. military responsibility for Al Anbar passed to Baghdad-based USD-C, commanded by Army Maj. Gen. Terry A. Wolff.

In an unparalleled example of the successful partnerships Marines have shared with the Iraqi people over the past several years, a large gathering of Iraqi soldiers, police, sheiks and government officials joined U.S. service members for the transfer of authority ceremony aboard Camp Ramadi.

“It is an understatement to say that we have witnessed historic events this year in Iraq, and today's ceremony is certainly an example of continued positive change as we transition and consolidate U.S. forces under the flag of United States Division - Center,” said Tryon. “There have been many significant security gains in Anbar over the last couple of years, and many of the people responsible for these gains are here in the audience today … we praise you for your courage and determination.”

Though the ceremony focused on the fruitfulness of the Marines’ mission in Iraq, Tryon stressed that their success would not have been possible without the efforts of the Iraqi people.

“These gains have not been accomplished over the course of the last several years because of what U.S. forces have done alone, nor have they been accomplished because of what the security forces from Iraq have done; rather, these achievements are a result of what we have done together, in partnership with one another and with the leadership of the Iraqi civil sector,” Tryon explained. “Much has been done to advance the goals of stability and prosperity, yet there is still much to do. There continues to be a lingering element bent on creating havoc and preventing the good people of Anbar from enjoying the fruits of a normal, peaceful life.”

Wolff and his soldiers from the 1st Armored Division will continue to partner with Iraqis and work to ensure the progress Marines have made over the last several years in Anbar is steadily built upon.

“Today marks the final chapter of the [Marine Expeditionary Force’s] participation in Iraq and Al Anbar. For many of us who have served with you on multiple tours across Iraq, we will never forget your sacrifices and all that you have given on our behalf,” said Wolff. “We look forward to partnering with [the Iraqis], and we thank you for all you have done to make us feel welcome. As we move forward, we understand the importance of this year in Iraq and the USD-C team is dedicated to that mission and the tasks ahead.”

Marines and Iraqis alike have sweated and sacrificed in the name of freedom and peace for the past six years. The significance of the strong cross-cultural bonds built here will not soon be forgotten.

“As the Marines complete their mission in Anbar, we are grateful for the new beginning in an ancient land and for the many strong friendships we have forged,” said Tryon. “From all the Marines who have served in this historic effort, we wish the people of Anbar and Iraq peace and prosperity.”