CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq -- Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, Multi-National Corps-Iraq commander, visited soldiers, sailors and Marines of Regimental Combat Team 1 during a battle space tour within his area of operations, March 18.
Austin met with senior leaders aboard the camp and greeted some of RCT-1’s exceptional soldiers, sailors and Marines with a speech, giving each one a command coin afterwards.
The MNC-I commander commented to the service members, although it is important to receive thanks for their service from the American people back home, it’s just as significant to get a pat on the back from a fellow teammate, much like the quarterback showing recognition to his linemen, who do most of the work.
Austin recently assumed command of MNC-I, Feb. 14 in Baghdad. He previously served in Iraq in 2003 as assistant division commander (maneuver) of 3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized). Other assignments included commander of Combined Joint Task Force 180 during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and chief of staff for U.S. Central Command from September 2005 until October 2006. Before becoming MNC-I commander, he last commanded the XVIII Airborne Corps, which he started December 2006.