Posted on 01/09/2008 6:49:29 PM PST by NormsRevenge
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. A Marine Corps general taking over command in Iraq's Anbar province said Wednesday that the decrease in insurgent attacks and decline in casualties is allowing U.S. troops to focus more attention on training of Iraqi security forces.
"We want to work ourselves out of a job," said Maj. Gen. John F. Kelly, who is scheduled to take command of Marines in western Iraq.
Kelly said the Iraqi army has been successfully patrolling and escorting convoys in the Anbar province without the support of U.S. troops.
"Basically, we are taking the training wheels off," the general said shortly after a ceremony was held as part of the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force command's preparation for deployment to Iraq. "As we step back from the Iraqi security forces, we'll stand ready to support them, if needed."
Kelly will be replacing Maj. Gen. Walter Gaskin, who has been heading up operations for the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force on the ground in Iraq.
Kelly has served two tours in Iraq - during the initial invasion of Iraq and then again in 2004 in Fallujah.
General there are lots a crazies out there!
Gotta love the attitude.
“As we step back from the Iraqi security forces
Trained by the best, it’s time to hope to say, ‘get the popcorn, Troops’, and thanks for sticking it out as the Media and Democrats tried to stick it too you. Also thanks to Free Republic for getting the real war presented to the American people, as myself, in the Midwest, have been able to stay informed of the real deal.
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