BAGHDAD - A Navy explosive ordnance brigade made history by being the first Navy component to take command of Joint Task Force Troy, Jan. 14.
During a Transfer of Authority Ceremony at Al Faw Palace on Camp Victory, the San Diego based Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 1 assumed command and control of Task Force Troy from the 111th Ordnance Group.
Colonel Jose R. Atencio, commander of the 111th Ord. Grp., described the hand over between both units as “very smooth” because of the similar training and work ethics of EOD units throughout the armed forces.
“When they came in they understood the mission, and we understood what we needed to give them to have a smooth transition,” said Atencio.
During his speech, Navy Capt. Edward W. Eidson, commander of EODGRU-1 applauded the efforts of the 111th Ord. Grp. for their preparation of the turnover and their hospitality upon EODGRU-1’s arrival.
EODGRU-1 will command the joint task force that specializes in counterimprovised explosive device operations to assist the Iraqi government in eliminating IED threats across the country. Its
operations include C-IED training, conducting weapons technical intelligence collections and exploitations to eliminate IED networks.
Eidson said he looks forward to keep the ongoing mission that previous units of Task Force Troy established.
“Our mission is to continue and improve what is already in place,” said Eidson. “Our job here is to develop the Iraqi’s ability to counter IEDs, to ensure they are able to maintain a secure and forces depart,” he said.
Eidson also said the joint task force plays a key role in providing force protection for all service members in the Iraq joint operations area.
“We are assisting the Iraqis in fighting an insurgency in which U.S. forces are the primary targets. As the task force that provides EOD capabilities, we are the first line of defense against the enemy’s weapon of choice,” said Eidson.
“As we proceed through Operation New Dawn, risk throughout our forces remain and we must ensure we posture the Iraqis to be successful in their continued fight against terrorists,” he said.
Eidson concluded by telling the crowd how grateful he is to be part of TF Troy.
“It is honor and privilege to be afforded the opportunity to command such an exceptional and diverse organization as Combined Joint Task Force Troy,” he said.
Date Taken: | 01.14.2011 |
Date Posted: | 01.22.2011 08:23 |
Story ID: | 64009 |
Location: | BAGHDAD, IQ |
Web Views: | 751 |
Downloads: | 1 |
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