Williams Reports From Iraq

UPDATE FROM IRAQ

CSM Tommie Williams called this morning from Iraq to talk with me about the progress being made to stand up the Iraqi Army and police forces.

Williams is serving in the Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq.

From the sound of it, progress is being made.

“We’re building the security forces across the country,” said I Corps and Ft. Lewis’ former Command Sergeant Major. “The teamwork is there; the good work is there; we are making significant progress on all fronts,” he added.

Williams also pointed out that American combat forces have been vital in setting the conditions that have allowed the Iraqi police and army to take on their own security operations.

“The surge worked well; it has set the conditions for that have allowed for success,” continued Williams. “But I also want to point out that the Iraqi Army also sent in double the amount of brigades we did in order to stabilize the country,” he added.

The command sergeant major singled out Fort Lewis’ 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division for its work in the Diyala Province and the 62nd Medical Brigade for its countrywide medical mission.

“Soldiers from Fort Lewis have done a phenomenal job in carrying out the mission objectives,” added Williams. “And Fort Lewis soldiers and their family members have every reason to be proud,” he added.

J.M. Simpson