Thursday, December 1
IRAQI 2ND ARMY GRUNTS SET TO TAKE OVER BABIL PROVINCE
Iraq 2nd Army made it's bones during the October 15, 2005 referendum operation.
| November 30, 2005 AL HILLAH, Iraq -- On Nov. 29 the 2nd Iraqi Army Brigade from al Hillah successfully accomplished its certification process. From Nov. 24 – 27, military instructors from Multi-National Division Central-South tested the combat readiness of 2nd Brigade Headquarters and subunits. The exam confirmed that the 2nd Brigade is ready to plan and conduct military activities independently. It opens the way to hand over the responsibility for a safe and secure environment in Babil Province from Coalition Forces to Iraqi Army units. From now on 2nd Brigade will plan and conduct independent operations within its area of responsibility. MNDCS support will be given only in emergency situations by providing a quick reaction force, MEDEVAC or air support. However, MNDCS military advisors and trainers will still monitor 2nd Brigade activities. The 2nd Brigade certification is a two stage process of IA training within MNDCS AOR. After battalion level certification had been achieved in mid-July, the higher brigade level has now also been accomplished. The 2nd Brigade consists of two battalions located in different places within Babil province. It numbers about 1,800 Soldiers equipped in light armored vehicles with a variety of weapons. The brigade has taken part in five combat operations so far. They were executed in cooperation with Coalition Forces. During these operations, 2nd Brigade Soldiers searched hundreds of vehicles, persons and buildings. Ninety different illegal weapons and a large amount of ammunition have been seized as result. Also many persons suspected of terrorism have been detained. The most significant success of 2nd Brigade was the referendum operation. The brigade established 41 checkpoints and 12 mobile patrols effectively preventing any attacks on Nov. 15. Weblog LINK |
