CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq -- Capping a 15-month deployment in northern Iraq, "Task Force Iron," led by the 1st Armored Division, transferred authority for its Multi-National Division - North mission to "Task Force Lightning" during a transition of authority ceremony here, Dec. 9.
The incoming task force is led by the 25th Infantry Division -- the "Tropic Lightning" division based at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
Lt. Gen. Lloyd Austin, commander of Multi- National Corps - Iraq, praised Task Force Iron's contributions during its combat tour.
"What (1st Armored Division commander) General Mark Hertling and his 'Iron Soldiers' have accomplished these past 15 months was nothing short of historic, heroic and monumental in the scope of their accomplishments," said Austin.
Task Force Iron officials reported that during their deployment 20,000 new Iraqi Police officers were trained and more than 52,000 jobs were created across northern Iraq while the task force's troops provided security and stability that allowed the provinces of the region to grow and become more prosperous.
"The division was given some of the toughest missions against the fiercest of enemies in the most challenging of environments," said Austin during the ceremony. Task Force Iron was able to reach out to the Iraqi population and build strong ties, creating stronger cooperation and understanding between Iraqis and coalition forces.
"It has been my great honor to have worked with all the leaders and citizens of the northern provinces over these last 15 months," said Hertling.
"Together, Arab, Kurd, Shia, Sunni and coalition forces we have served the future for liberty of all people of Iraq," said Hertling.
The remaining Soldiers of Task Force Iron are making their way home to family and friends in Germany as Task Force Lightning begin its tour here.
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