Photo By Sgt. Michael Alberts | Representative Soldiers of 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division's...... read more read more
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by Spc. Mike Alberts
3rd Brigade Public Affairs
KIRKUK, Iraq – They've trained at the base of the Himalayas in India and the extreme cold of northern Japan. They've toughed it out at the National Training Center and in the jungles of the Philippines' Balakatan. Third Brigade is ready to fight. Responsibility for Kirkuk Province is finally in the hands of the "Bronco Brigade."
Soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team ("Broncos"), 25th Infantry Division assumed authority of the Kirkuk Province from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) during a mission transition ceremony at Forward Operating Base Warrior, Kirkuk, Iraq, Sept. 10.
The Bronco Brigade deployed to the region for their year-long tour almost two months ago. Since deploying, Bronco Soldiers have transitioned into war with the help of their 1BCT "Bastogne" counterparts. The assistance of their "Bastogne brothers" did not go unappreciated.
"I am grateful for your readiness to receive us here and your guidance during our transition. We are better prepared to accomplish our mission because of your hard work, dedication and professionalism," said Col. Patrick Stackpole, commander, 3IBCT. "Your success was earned through tremendous personal sacrifice and courage. It will never be forgotten. You leave Iraq one step closer to freedom and democracy," said Stackpole.
The mission transition ceremony was first marked by the "casing" of 1BCT's colors, signifying the end of their successful tour that commenced Sept. 23, 2005. Next, 3IBCT "posted" its colors, signifying the brigade's readiness to conduct its wartime mission. An integral component of that mission is the brigade's collaboration with Iraqi Security Forces, freely elected government officials and the citizens of Iraq.
"[To the Iraqi people], you can expect a seamless transition of forces and continuity of professionalism from the Bronco Brigade," said Stackpole. "You will see our Tropic Lightning Soldiers tirelessly working with you to improve the security in the region and continuing to establish a safer environment where your government, businesses and families can prosper without fear."
Departing Bastogne Soldiers have set a high standard for the Bronco Brigade. During their year-long tour, Bastogne Soldiers successfully engaged in large scale combat, training and civic improvement operations.
According to Col. David R. Gray, commander, 1BCT, his brigade provided the security enabling the people of the province to vote in elections that resulted in Iraq's first freely elected government. 1BCT also cleared improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from thousands of miles of road, and completed over 150 civic improvement projects that provided electricity and drinking water to thousands who had never enjoyed these basic services. Finally, Bastogne Soldiers conducted invaluable training, and provided leadership and guidance to the Iraqi Army and Iraqi Security Forces.
Addressing his Soldiers, Col Gray remarked: "Together, we have overcome every challenge, met every goal, and we have taken every objective. Because of you, evil is shaken and the wheel of democracy is in motion."
"As I step away from this podium, I do so knowing that, once again, good men and women are teaming up with the Iraqi Security Forces," said Gray. "Bronco Soldiers, thank you for your service. God bless you and protect you as you take up the fight against evil," he said.
| Date Taken: | 09.14.2006 |
| Date Posted: | 09.14.2006 09:08 |
| Story ID: | 7727 |
| Location: | KIRKUK, IQ |
| Web Views: | 444 |
| Downloads: | 210 |
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