172nd SBCT transfers authority to 3rd SBCT

The 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team handed over operations in Mosul and other surrounding areas in the Ninewa Province to the 3rd SBCT, 2nd Infantry Division in a transfer of authority ceremony held at Forward Operating Base Marez today.

The Soldiers of the 172nd SBCT were deployed here last August and have since conducted more than 15,000 missions collectively including cordon and searches, combat patrols, counter mortar and rocket missions, raids, escort missions and humanitarian aid throughout Dohuk and Ninewa and Irbil provinces.

"The accomplishments of the 172nd SBCT have been truly remarkable," said Maj. Gen. Thomas Turner, commanding general, Task Force Band of Brothers, during his speech at the ceremony.

"In the Ninewa province they successfully served during the Constitutional Referendum and the National Elections which brought democracy to more than 3.8 million people. They have worked to help restore the damaged infrastructure of Iraq due to years of plight and trained and equipped seven Iraqi Army brigades that are now better prepared to serve the Iraqi people and citizens of Ninewa province."

For the 3rd SBCT, this is their second tour in the Ninewa Province in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"For the last year the 'Artic Wolves' (172nd SBCT) have shed blood, sweat and tears to free the people of Ninewa from the terrorist's grip and help the Iraqi people have a better life. I can only promise we will work hard to fill the boots of the 172nd," said incoming commander, Col. Steven Townsend, commander, 3rd SBCT as he shook hands with outgoing 172nd SBCT Commander Col. Michael Shields.

The ceremony was marked by the traditional uncasing of the colors by the 3rd SBCT.

For the 3rd SBCT, this is their second tour in the Ninewa Province in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Source: Multi-National Force-Iraq

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