44th Corps Support Battalion heads home
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Story and Photos by Spc. Jessika Ross
MOSUL, Iraq- Marking the end of a chapter in their history, the 44th Corps Support Battalion (CSB) is heading home to Fort Lewis, Wash., after completing an 11-month tour providing logistical support as a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom II.
The 44th has been replaced by the 17th Corps Support Battalion, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. During a transfer of authority ceremony in Mosul, on Oct. 5, the 44th relinquished its logistical support duties in the northern region to the 17th CSB.
The 44th CSB, comprised of active duty, National Guard, Reserve Soldiers and Air Force personnel, provided logistical support for Multi-National Forces all over northern Iraq, from the Turkish border south to Tikrit. They covered over 1.4 million miles providing convoy escorts for food and water trucks traveling from the border.
“The 44th CSB is as good an organization as I’ve ever served in and has clearly demonstrated what a dynamic and engaged support unit is capable of,” said Lt. Col. Michael Holmes, commander of the 44th. “These great soldiers never shied away from a mission, never backed down from a challenge, took constant change in stride and represented their country with professionalism and pride.”
The 17th CSB, a part of the 45th Corps Support Group, has been deployed in support of both Operation Iraqi Freedom I and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
The unit began its training in preparation for Operation Iraqi Freedom II in May and completed a division level certification training course that prepared them at the squad, company and platoon levels for their deployment to Iraq. The training involved convoy live-fire exercises, soldier skills, common threats and improvised explosive device training.
“The 17th CSB assumes the mission to provide seamless support to coalition forces in our area of operation. We will succeed and will embody our motto ‘Always ready,’” said Lt. Col. Patricia Matlock, commander of the 17th CSB.
Lt. Col. Patricia Matlock, commander of the 17th Corps Support Battalion, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, unfurls the units colors, signifying the official transfer of authority from the 44th CSB to the 17th. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jessika Ross)
Soldiers of the outgoing 44th Corps Support Battalion, Ft. Lewis, Wash., stand at attention, bearing the United States flag during a ceremony signifying the official transfer of authority from the 44th CSB to the 17th CSB. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jessika Ross)
(via DVIDS)
