Iraqi soldiers get permanent base in Al Anbar Province

Iraqi soldiers get permanent base in Al Anbar Province

CAMP HABBINYAH, Iraq -- Iraqi soldiers from the 9th Battalion, 2nd Iraqi Intervention Force Brigade, formally marked their new permanent duty station with a ceremony here today, marking a significant step for Iraqi security forces taking full responsibility for security in the area.

The battalion has been conducting operations in Fallujah since November 2004, operating from temporary facilities aboard the East Fallujah Iraqi Camp.

Camp Habbinyah is currently undergoing a $25 million renovation program to refurbish base infrastructure to support the permanent stationing and training of additional 1st IIF Division units.

The 9th Battalion is the first unit to receive military assistance teams in the Al Anbar province. The training program pairs an Iraqi security force unit with a Multi-National Force unit to train, mentor and assist the Iraqi unit as they develop the skills and experience necessary to provide security and stability in the region. The 9th Battalion will be partnered with the 1-506th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Battalion Combat Team, which serves under the 1st Marine Division.

“The combination of permanently stationed Iraqi Army forces and the introduction of the military assistance teams and training will increase security in Al Anbar province, and enable Iraqi security forces to take complete responsibility for security in the province,” said Brig. Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, assistant division commander, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

The training program will provide a team of approximately 30 U.S. service members as the core-training cell. However, the entire Multi-National Force unit will be partnered with their Iraqi counterparts and fully engaged in training and combined operations. -30-

Release # 0228-05-1350 United States Marine Corps Press Release Public Affairs Office I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Feb. 28, 2005