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Air Assault, All American brigades complete Transfer of Authority in Iraq

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division

Jan. 23, 2017 | 1:40

The U.S. Army's 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division completed their transfer of authority with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division - Air Assault, at forward operating base Union III, Jan. 19, 2017.
101st Abn. Div. "Blackheart" Soldiers, commanded by U.S. Army Col. Brett Sylvia, deployed to Iraq in May 2016 to serve as the lead element for the Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command's advise and assist mission for Operation Inherent Resolve.
"I am incredibly proud of how Strike Soldiers adapted, endured, and persevered. From austere outposts to newly constructed airfields, Strike Soldiers brought to life the plans born here - dutifully executing our commanders' intent," said Sylvia.

During the past nine months, TF Strike supported the government of Iraq and ISF maneuver through multiple operations including:

. Enabled the ISF to liberate hundreds of villages and cities including Fallujah, Sharqat, Qayyarah and Qaraqosh.
. Construction teams rebuilt Qyarrah West Airfield.
. Installed assault bridges which enhanced ISF's capability to take the fight to the enemy.
. Assisted nearly 100,000 internally displaced persons to return to their homes.

"Our time has come to a close but the mission is far from over. The Soldiers of TF Falcon have ably grabbed the baton and are now running with it. Under the tremendous leadership of COL Work and CSM Rucker, I know the Iraqis will achieve even more. I wish you nothing but the best in writing the next chapter," said Sylvia.

The 82nd Abn. Div.'s Falcon brigade, led by U.S. Army Col. James "Pat" Work, will continue to lead the advise and assist mission, which includes on-going support to the Iraqi security forces as they begin their push into western Mosul.
"It's our high honor to return Paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division - America's guard of honor - to Iraq at this historic moment," said Work.