Commander's Update, March 7, 2009
1st Battalion, 12th United States Cavalry Regiment
Michael Fadden, LTC Commanding Officer

 

 

It's been three busy months since we last reported. We are now firmly established in Ninewah Province and will begin reporting monthly.

Since the last report, Chargers  successfully deployed to Kuwait and forward into Iraq, replaced the 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, secured the provincial elections, forged new relationships with the Iraqi army and police, assisted in local governance, transitioned Sons of Iraq to government control, and so on. All has been accomplished through the hard work and sacrifice of the fine men and women within this formation and all can be proud.

One topic I do want to discuss that has been of concern to many is task organization. As many of you know, A Co is currently working with 2-82 Field Artillery in Mosul and will for some time. The remaining companies have swapped platoons twice since arriving and I can promise it will not be the last time for rotating platoons. I know this causes confusion and frustration back home, however we must make sure we put the right units in the right places to accomplish our given mission. I will use this forum as well as the website to address any issues or concerns that you have — just pass it through FRG channels.

In closing, all Charger Soldiers are working tirelessly to enhance the security of Iraq, improve the governing capability, and further develop our Iraqi force partners. Their efforts are instrumental in allowing a successful transition of mission to Iraqi forces in the future and leaving Iraq as a beacon of democracy in the Middle East. You will read more in the following pages of each companies specific actions -- A Co in Mosul, B Co operating in Ash Shura, C Co touring the ruins in Al Hadr, D Co moving recently to Hamann al Alil, E Co in the Jazeera desert, HHC enjoying life in Kurdish areas, or Easy supporting this complex, vast area. We trust all is well at home and look forward to our return!

 

Always Ready!

LTC Mike Fadden
Commanding
1/12th Cavalry