FORWARD OPERATING BASE WARRIOR, KIRKUK, Iraq- Residents of Kirkuk city can expect to see a new addition to the U.S. military vehicles that sometimes drive through their city.
Since the withdrawal of U.S. combat forces from Iraqi cities, in accordance with the Security Agreement, the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, has begun adding signs reading "Iraqi partnership provincial approved convoy. Thank you for your patience and support" to the sides of their vehicles.
U.S. Forces serving in an advisory and assistance role continue to travel within the city to meet with their Iraqi counterparts or government officials.
"These signs show that we are working with our partners and that we're abiding by the Security Agreement," explained Maj. Frazier Epperson, an Information Operations officer for 2 BCT. "These signs explain to the Iraqis that our vehicles are allowed by the Iraqi government in this province to be in the cities," he added.
The signs also give the message that the vehicles are part of a coordinated effort with Iraqi Security Forces, are part of a Provincial Reconstruction Team movement or performing other non-combat related activities in coordination with their Iraqi partners, explained Maj. Andy Liffring, 2nd BCT's engineering officer.
By adding the signs, the brigade is reinforcing and showing that the U.S. military is committed to the Security Agreement, and that it's in a supporting role rather than being directly involved in the day-to-day operations of the city, Liffring said.
Residents of the city can expect to see the signs on the first and last vehicles within the convoys, until all the vehicles are outfitted with the new signs.
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