Wilson Praises Continued Advancement of Iraqi Forces

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 8, 2006

CONTACT: Kim Olive
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Wilson Praises Continued Advancement of Iraqi Forces

The 4th Iraqi Army Division (IAD) today assumed control of security operations in its area of responsibility from the 101st Airborne Division. Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02), Co-Chair of the Victory in Iraq Caucus, made the following statement:

“Just last week, Iraqi President Jalal Talabani announced that Iraqi forces would assume security operations for the entire country by the end of this year. Today, the 4th IAD became the fifth of 10 Iraqi Army units to take on this responsibility.

“The rapid advancement of Iraqi Security Forces is undeniable. Iraqis are now controlling roughly half of their country. By leading operations in major cities such as Tikrit and Samarra, the Iraqis are proving their ability and desire to defend themselves.

“The 101st Airborne Division has served the United States proudly. We are forever indebted to the work they have done to protect American families and advance U.S. interests abroad.”

Additional Facts on Advancement of Iraqi Forces
(Source: The White House)

ò There are approximately 275,000 trained Iraqi security personnel.

ò In July, the al-Muthanna province became the first of Iraq’s 18 provinces to be given responsibility of its own security and governmental responsibilities.

ò Iraqi Security Forces currently in the lead:
o 5 Iraqi Army Divisions
o 25 Iraqi Army Brigades
o 85 Iraqi Army Battalions
o 2 Iraqi National Police Battalions

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