Red Bulls continue to arrive in Basra

Photo By Sgt. Darryl Montgomery | Soldiers of the 34th Infantry Division arrive at Contingency Operating Base Basra from Kuwait. The 34th ID will assume command of Multi-National Division-South from the 10th Mountain Division in a transfer of authority ceremony scheduled for later this month.  

BASRA, IRAQ

05.04.2009

Story by Spc. Darryl Montgomery 

Multi-National Division-South East Public Affairs

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq — Soldiers of the 34th Infantry Division continue to arrive here from Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The 34th ID will replace the 10th Mountain Division and assume command of Multi-National Division — South after a transfer of authority ceremony later this month.

Staff Sgt. Rebecca Griebel, 34th Infantry Division, Medical Operations battle captain, said it was good to finally see Basra for herself and put some of the rumors to rest. The Madelia, Minn., native arrived in Basra April 30 and said so far she likes the environment.

"We have a nice office, a cool place to sleep and we get three meals a day," she said, "what more could you ask for?"

Minneapolis, Minn., native Lt. Col. Fred Karasov said, "I am really impressed with the work space. It's a really good environment and we have access to everyone around us."

In addition to enjoying the office space, he said he is really looking forward to taking over the mission from the 10th Mtn. Div.

"I am proud to be a part of this and to be able and do something for Iraq," said Karasov. "I think it is an important task that needs to be done."

"Hopefully we can leave this place better than the 10th Mountain left it," he continued. "If every division can leave it a better place, then they have accomplished their mission."

• Date Taken: 05.04.2009
• Date Posted: 05.04.2009 06:01
• Story ID: 33151
• Location: BASRA, IQ