AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq –
A Colonel-level logistics headquarters moved from Iraq to Kuwait last week, a demonstrative step towards the conclusion of the transformation of Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve to the advise, assist, and enable role that will be achieved in the coming weeks, according to Coalition officials.
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Nathan Adkins assumed command of base operations from Army Col. Todd Pegg at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, on November 23.
The transfer of authority ceremony was attended by multiple mission partners to include Iraqi Air Force Maj. Gen. Abbas Fadel Damer, commander, Al Asad Air Base.
“Thank you Colonel Pegg”, said Abbas. “Despite the short time we had with you we will continue to work with Lieutenant Colonel Adkins. We will continue to work together to share information and make the base more secure and stable. I wish Lieutenant Colonel Adkins success with [his command].”
Al Asad Air Base, an Iraqi-run installation, conducts operations in support of CJTF-OIR, a multi-national coalition charged with advising, assisting, and enabling Iraqi partners to maintain the enduring defeat of Daesh.
During the ceremony, the outgoing commander and acting sergeant major cased the 329th Regional Support Group colors, signifying the end of their command. The incoming commander and first sergean then unfurled the 2nd Battalion colors, signifying the start of their command.
Adkins will oversee support and coordinate efforts between core base functions to enable operations at the Iraqi-run installation.
“It is important to remember that we are on one team with different missions that all contribute equally to the success of this base, the mission across CJTF and to enable our Iraqi partners to defeat Daesh. We will continue to enable CJTF-OIR and NATO Mission-Iraq missions through this critical facility,” said Adkins.
Pegg and his headquarters element are repositioning to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, where he will oversee support efforts at installations that house Coalition forces in Iraq and Syria. Part of the 329th RSG will remain at Al Asad Air Base to conduct Base Operations Support – Integrator operations to provide life support functions to all forces on base.
“I’m confident Lieutenant Colonel Adkins and [his team] will enjoy the same support and success at Al Asad because of the collective effort, attitude, climate and performance that makes this place what it is,” Pegg stated.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, coalition partners presented Pegg parting gifts and tokens of appreciation for the support he provided their forces. Others in attendance welcomed Adkins and congratulated Pegg on a successful command.