 Operation Iraqi Freedom
The Romanian flag was lowered over the 26th's compound, affectionately known as "Camp Dracula", at Contingency Operating Base Adder in a ceremony following a memorial for the Romanian military personnel who died in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The end of mission was held just an hour before the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division conducted a Relief in Place, Transfer of Authority ceremony with the outgoing 4th BCT, 1st Cavalry Division. Among the honored guests were Romanian President Traian Basescu, Supreme Commander of Romanian Armed Forces during wartime. Lt. Col. Gabriel Toma, commander of the 26th Infantry Battalion, received the US Army's Bronze Star Medal from guest speaker Lt. Gen. Charles Jacoby, commander of Multi-National Corps-Iraq. "It's hard to say farewell to a trusted partner," said Jacoby. "Few have been as committed to freedom of the Iraqi people as the Romanians, and I extend my thanks as it's been an honor to serve with them here in Iraq." Jacoby praised the Romanians as a dedicated and capable force, and expressed condolences for their lost Soldiers. Since August 2003, Romania has deployed over 5,200 troops to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Assigned to two different Multi-National Divisions, Romanian forces have provided intelligence support to Multi-National Division - South by conducting reconnaissance and surveillance missions and operating unmanned aerial vehicle platforms. Romanian forces also provided base security, supply route security and quick reaction forces in Basra, and conducted training and monitoring of Iraqi Army units, with a recent graduation of Iraqi Commandos on Camp Ur near COB Adder May 23. ADDITIONAL PHOTO:
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