Today is Iraqi Sovereignty Day (UPDATED)

(UPDATE #1):From Villainous Company and for your consideration:

"While the terrorism was certainly bad, Iraq made astonishing social, economic, and political progress the entire time and built up effective security forces, which is nearly unbelievable considering the country was fighting the most ruthless, merciless, evil enemy in the modern age. How many other countries have built armies from scratch, adopted free-market capitalism, written a constitution, and held their first free elections all while fighting a long-term war? Pretty much none, I think. The Coalition provided the security and the example, and the Iraqis improved themselves by sheer force of will. They're amazing, truly heroic people."

H/T: Foxfier

And this clip regarding the turnover to the Iraqi forces courtesy BlackFive



(here endeth the update)




Today marks the last day that U.S. combat troops will be patrolling Iraqi cities alone. From this day forward, U.S. troops will only be in Iraqi cities if invited or accompanyed by Iraqi security forces.

But none of this came easy, and that is what I’m reminded of today. The historic events of June 30, 2009 didn’t come about because politicians passed resolutions or regional allies capitulated. With the help of president who showed resolve and a general who changed strategy, this day was made possible by over 4,300 American warriors who gave their lives (and over 31,000 wounded) so that others — Iraqis they barely knew — could live free.

This enduring truth is the legacy of this day. May we take pause and remember that nothing good comes without a cost, and that at the end of the day — the only thing standing between the sectarian abyss of 2006 and the triumphant transfer of 2009 — were stalwart American troops, their brave Iraqi counterparts, and an Iraqi population that rejected the violent ideology of al-Qaeda.

And it wasn't just the surge. It was the troops who tore down Saddam's statue for the world to see, the Soldiers and Marines who crushed insurgents in Fallujah, Ramadi, Mosul, and elsewhere, the Special Operators who hunted and killed Zarqawi, and the thousands of young men who, every day, patrolled endless miles of Iraqi roads, deserts, and cities. Every action played a role, large or small.

We may forget all this, but only at our peril. However, should we remember these facts, I believe America will make prudent decisions regarding our continued relationship with Iraq — ensuring this day is not just a mark on the calendar, but a landmark for freedom in the world.

That from Captain Pete Hegseth of Vets for Freedom

H/T: The Corner