BAGHDAD, Iraq - Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve, the military coalition to defeat Daesh, completed a transfer of authority ceremony in Baghdad, Iraq, Aug. 22, 2023.
U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Joel "JB" Vowell assumed command as CJTF-OIR commanding general from U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Matthew McFarlane, as the colors were passed by the presiding officer, U.S. Army Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla, commanding general, U.S. Central Command.
U.S. and coalition forces witnessed the transfer of authority ceremony at the coalition headquarters in Baghdad. Kurilla expressed his appreciation to the going command team, as well as confidence that the new leadership team is ready to continue efforts to enable the lasting defeat of Daesh and set conditions for follow-on operations to increase regional stability.
Kurilla praised the leadership of McFarlane, "Your leadership during this period of complex challenges and changes was nothing short of remarkable. [You] managed more risk on a day to day basis than any commander in the joint force around the world."
After relinquishing command of the task force, McFarlane celebrated the coalition force's ongoing support of its partners, "I look forward to seeing the continued progress that this entire team - one team, one fight - leads over the coming years."
Vowell took the podium to share his vision. "We live on the knife's edge of freedom. Our mission here is to continue the defeat of Daesh, help our partner forces get better, and become independent. That will be my focus," he said.
As the capabilities of the coalition's partner forces continue to mature, CJTF-OIR will focus on advising, assisting and enabling them in ensuring the defeat of Daesh and building foundations to maintain stability in the region.
Since 2014, CJTF-OIR has built and enhanced the capacities of partner forces while significantly degrading the ability of Daesh to recruit, train, plan, resource, inspire and execute attacks worldwide.
CJTF-OIR remains steadfast in its commitment to advise, assist, and enable partners in Iraq and Syria in the enduring defeat of Daesh.
-30-