793rd Military Police Battalion conducts transfer of responsibility ceremony in Basra

Photo By Sgt. Rodney Foliente | Lt. Col. Michael Blahovec, commander, 793rd Military Police Battalion, based out of Bamberg, Germany, and Command Sgt. Maj. Eric Hodges, roll up their battalion colors for casing during a transfer of responsibility ceremony at COB Basra, June 19. The battalion, which was attached to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, transferred its mission of professionalizing the Iraqi police to Task Force South.  

BASRA, IRAQ

06.19.2009

Story by Sgt. Rodney Foliente 

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq — The 793rd Military Police Battalion conducted a transfer of responsibility ceremony with Task Force South at Contingency Operating Base Basra, June 19.

The 793rd MP Bn., was attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and will return to its home in Bamberg, Germany, after a successful mission overseeing the professionalization of Iraqi police in seven provinces in central and southern Iraq.

"For the 793rd, today marks the end of a period of service, sacrifice, accomplishment and achievement," said Lt. Col. Michael Blahovec, commander, 793rd MP Bn. Blahovec applauded the efforts and achievements of his battalion's Soldiers, as well as to the nine subordinate units that were attached to the battalion during the deployment, from Baghdad to Basra. The battalion also worked with British forces until their recent end of mission in Iraq.

"You accomplished many things beyond what many would have thought possible. You did what was asked of you and more, and did it with the welfare of our Soldiers at the forefront of your minds. I remain incredibly proud to have served with all of you," said Blahovec.

He expressed his confidence in the incoming commander, Lt. Col. John Camps, and TF South, to continue to build upon the battalion's accomplishments and further professionalize the IP.

Camps expressed optimism for the near future of Basra and the mission of TF South, thanking the 793rd MP Bn. for their diligence, hard work and for paving the way

"I wish you all a safe trip back home and to your families," concluded Camps.

• Date Taken: 06.19.2009
• Date Posted: 06.20.2009 03:13
• Story ID: 35381
• Location: BASRA, IQ