Combat Outpost Perry and Old State Building returned to Iraqi control

Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Carlos Burger | U.S. Army 1st Lt. Jeremy Poisson, an Atlanta native and platoon leader for the 178th Military Police Company, and Lt. Col. Mohamed Ali, executive officer for the 50th Iraqi Army Battalion, shake hands as the U.S. forces close the gate at the entrance to the Old State Building, June 28. U.S. forces withdrew all supplies and personnel and turn control of the base to Iraqi control.  

BASRA, IRAQ

06.28.2009

Story by Sgt. 1st Class Carlos Burger 

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

BASRA, Iraq — Elements of the 21st Military Police Company and 178th Military Police Company, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, withdrew all supplies and personnel and returned control of Combat Outpost Perry and the Old State Building, two key bases inside the city of Basra, to the Iraqi army, June 28.

"This is a symbolic moment for the people of Iraq. It's exciting to watch the Iraqi army step up and protect their people," said 1st Lt. Jeremy Poisson, an Atlanta native and platoon leader for the 178th MP Co.

Lt. Col. Mohamed Ali, executive officer for the 50th IA Battalion, was on hand for the final departure of the U.S. Soldiers and expressed that the although the IA are a little precautious over the U.S. forces departure from the cities, overall they are happy and eager to showcase their abilities.

"We want to prove to our people that the Americans did not occupy Iraq, but instead they have completed their mission [in the city]," Ali said through a translator.

Ali added that the IA have no current plans for the facilities, however they are looking at converting the building and area into a meeting hall for the people of Basra.

Col. Butch Kievenaar, commander of the brigade, told local leaders that two other locations will continue to have a U.S. presence to coordinate, train and advise the Iraqi security forces at the request of key leaders in the province in a meeting June 16. In that meeting he stated that some U.S. forces may still travel through the cities to also conduct site surveys on civic action projects.

"After the 30th of June, I'm sure you will hear from your people how they saw Americans in Basra, but please assure them we are only there to continue the work on projects and advising the ISF," Kievenaar said.

• Date Taken: 06.28.2009
• Date Posted: 06.30.2009 01:35
• Story ID: 35771
• Location: BASRA, IQ