Authority Transferred From 1st Battalion
Command authority for the Al Wehida region passed from United States forces to the commander of the 13th Georgian Light Infantry Battalion. The Georgian Light Infantry is part of the joint Coalition forces helping in Iraq.
Lieutenant Colonel Jack Marr was the Commander, and he handed over the torch of the region and Combat Outpost Clear to Major David Sulkhanishvilli, the Commander of the Georgian Light Infantry Battalion. Colonel Marr thanks the representatives and leaders of the region for their service during his command of the area.
Colonel Marr was especially appreciative of leaders of Al Wehida and Mada’in Qada. Also present were members of 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team. “We moved into this area and assumed command about eleven months ago, and we have been treated as friends. Your generosity and hospitality have made us feel very welcome,” said Colonel Marr.
“The people of Al Wehida have slowly reclaimed their lives from terrorism and insurgency,” said Colonel Marr. “We have watched as hope replaced fear, I congratulate you for your progress,” said Colonel Marr.
The commander of the HBCT 3rd Regiment, Colonel Wayne W. Grigsby Jr. also spoke at the ceremony. “A brand new fire station has been built, a new clinic for health , new schools, and a new radio station,” said Colonel Grigsby. “New construction is leading to new hope, soon there will even be a new soccer stadium,” said Colonel Grigsby.
“Much of this has been due to the work of the soldiers and forces serving under Lieutenant Colonel Jack Marr and his Dragon soldiers, including the work of the brave and strong citizens and men of Al Wehida,” said Colonel Grigsby.