JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq - Two medevac companies transferred authority in a ceremony here Jan. 5.
Company C, 7th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment assumed authority for medevac operations based here from Company C, 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment, which was Task Force 38's medevac unit. With the forthcoming U.S. forces drawdown, Company C, 7-101 Avn., will now report to 1st Air Cavalry Brigade and U.S. Division Center, according to the unit's commander, Maj. Brady Gallagher.
"We now stand ready to answer the call of the wounded without hesitation and without fail," said Gallagher during the ceremony.
Gallagher's unit replaces C Company, 7-158 Avn., from the Oregon Army National Guard and commanded by Maj. Geoffrey Vallee. The Oregon-based unit safely flew more than 3,000 hours, conducted approximately 380 life-saving missions and carried approximately 900 patients.
During the ceremony Vallee expressed confidence in the incoming unit. "What a professional group. We all feel good about leaving the mission in good hands," said Vallee of C Company, 7-101 Aviation Soldiers.
He then thanked his troops for their hard work during their nearly ten-month deployment.
"An awesome job you all did. I appreciate your efforts. You did an outstanding job," he said.
The Task Force 38 commander, Col. David Wood, praised the medevac Soldiers for their performance in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
"Maj. Vallee you and your Soldiers have earned a well-deserved rest. Depart theater and execute your de-mobilization as safely as you arrived. Thank you for your service to Task Force 38. Thank you for your service to all the Soldiers in Iraq and to the nation," said Wood.
He then had words of advice for the incoming unit.
"During your deployment there will be change here in Iraq. Do not become distracted. Your mission is critical and you must stay focused," said Wood during the ceremony.
"Maj. Gallagher you have brought an experienced team to the fight. I have no doubt you will skillfully execute your mission. I look forward to serving with you. Above the best."
Date Taken: | 01.05.2010 |
Date Posted: | 01.10.2010 13:09 |
Story ID: | 43630 |
Location: | BALAD, IQ |
Web Views: | 352 |
Downloads: | 203 |
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