COB BASRA - The 34th ID, of Rosemount, Minn., transferred authority over U.S. Div-S to the incoming 1st ID., from Fort Riley, Kan. 1st ID, also known as "Big Red One" because of their distinctive patch, is lead by Maj. Gen. Vincent Brooks.
Maj. Gen. Rick Nash, 34th ID cmdr, recounted many accomplishments of the 34th ID, and the Iraqi forces with whom they worked. Nash thanked the Dept of Border Enforcement, saying he was impressed with "how you embraced joint ops to secure previously porous border regions".
"Inland waterways, once a reliable route for smugglers, criminals and terrorists, have been superbly controlled by Coast Border Guard patrols,"
continued Nash. He also remarked on the role of the IP in disposing of explosive ordinance, and responding to IEDs as well as "advancing the rule of law".
Nash said he observed the IP expanding their responsibilities by taking over checkpoints from the IA. Lastly, Nash praised the IA for working well with "interagency ops" with the IqAF and their "unit readiness, tactical proficiency and logistical improvements."
Afterward, Brooks gave his own remarks. "It's an honor for the 1st ID to return to Iraq to serve again," Brooks said. Almost straight out of the gate, the 1st will facilitate the national elections and the upcoming seating of the Council of Representatives, which Brooks said are "positive indications of a sovereign country on the path to democratic success".
Nash said, "Our motto is: ‘No mission too difficult, no sacrifice too great. Duty First!'"
