Photo By Sgt. Michael Alberts | Invited guests and Soldiers walk the 4th Iraqi Army Division's new multi-use military...... read more read more
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by Spc. Mike Alberts
3rd BCT, 25th Inf. Div. PAO
KIRKUK, Iraq – The 4th Iraqi Army's 3rd Brigade celebrated the grand opening of its new multi-use military compound during a ribbon cutting ceremony at Patrol Base Andrea located west of Sulaimanya in northern Iraq, Oct. 16.
The thirty structure compound contains 3rd Brigade's headquarters' housing complex for 277 soldiers, the brigade's 1st Battalion's housing complex for 750 soldiers and several combined use facilities, to include a 500 seat dining facility, joint maintenance, fuel and ammunition points, a warehouse, medical clinic and classrooms, according to Mr. William Hopkins, project superintendent, Environmental Chemical Corporation (ECC).
According to Hopkins, the compound is slated to be fully operational by December, 2006. "One of the more positive aspects of the job is that the entire labor force was drawn form the local community which has helped to stimulate the local economy," said Hopkins. It is the first of three permanent compounds to be constructed in the region by the 4th Iraqi Army with the help of coalition forces.
"This force was transformed into a brigade in 2004 with the assistance of coalition forces," said Gen. Anwer though an interpreter, commanding general, 3rd Brigade, 4th Iraqi Army. "Our coalition friends have again assisted us in constructing three permanent military compounds, to include this one. For it all, we are grateful," said Anwer.
The compound will improve the efficiency of the brigade's command and control elements and will enable Soldiers of the brigade's headquarters element and 1st Battalion to move out of borrowed housing and tents.
"This unit has definitely earned these barracks and upgraded facilities," said Col. Ernie Audino, military transition team chief, attached to 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team. Audino has spent the last year working and living with 4th Iraqi Army, 3rd Brigade soldiers.
"They have served their country with distinction, said Audino. "Soldiers have been both killed and wounded in action in defense of their country from here to Balad." he said.
Among the event's invitees were Brig. Gen. Nabaz, Iraqi Ministry of Defense, Intelligence and Security, Col. Patrick T Stackpole, brigade commander, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Command Sgt. Maj. Frank Leota, command sergeant major, 3IBCT and Mr. Aziz, Peshmerga Intelligence Director.
"Every day your Soldiers demonstrate their courage by serving their country against a ruthless enemy under difficult conditions," said Col. Patrick. T. Stackpole, brigade commander, 3IBCT. "They finally now have a permanent place to rest between operations and to train together to continue to establish a safe and secure Iraq," said Stackpole.
Similar, permanent 4th IA compounds are currently being constructed in the northern Iraqi towns of Raniyah and Chamchamal.
| Date Taken: | 10.16.2006 |
| Date Posted: | 10.24.2006 12:51 |
| Story ID: | 8125 |
| Location: | KIRKUK, IQ |
| Web Views: | 293 |
| Downloads: | 123 |
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