Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Marcie B. Ries at the Departure of the Eighth Commando Group to Iraq (19 September 2006)

U.S. Ambassador Marcie B. Ries, together with the Minister of Defense Fatmir Mediu, NATO officials in Albania and Armed Forces commanders, attended a departure ceremony at Zalherr Base for the eighth group of Albanian commandos who will serve in Iraq. In her remarks, Ambassador Ries noted the bravery of troops and their contribution to building a secure and democratic Iraq. The 120 Albanian troops will be departing the evening of September 22 for Mosul where they will join the multi-national peacekeeping force.

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Marcie B. Ries

Departure of the Eighth Commando Group to Iraq

We are here this morning to bid Godspeed and give our best wishes to the Commandos leaving for Iraq tonight.

This contingent is the eighth group of Albanian soldiers to valiantly serve as a part of the Multinational Forces. Senior U.S. Commanders in Iraq have spoken to me of the skill and professionalism with which Albanian commando units have performed in Mosul.

The soldiers departing today are strong and well-trained professionals whom I know will serve with honor as they contribute to the freedom of Iraqis.

Albania’s participation in Iraq, and the troops it has committed to the multinational force in Afghanistan, is a sign of its commitment to promoting security and freedom in the world, as well as a sign of its solidarity in the fight against terrorism and extremist ideologies.

You who are departing today will join a military presence whose role has been absolutely indispensable to securing the conditions in which democratic institutions have emerged in Iraq and to fighting extremists who are sworn enemies of freedom.

Let me read to you President Bush’s words to the Iraqi people, delivered at the UN General Assembly earlier this week, which speak to the vital role the coalition is playing in building a secure and free Iraq. He said:

"Nearly 12 million of you braved the car bombers and assassins last December to vote in free elections. The world saw you hold up purple ink-stained fingers, and your courage filled us with admiration. You've stood firm in the face of horrendous acts of terror and sectarian violence -- and we will not abandon you in your struggle to build a free nation. America and our coalition partners will continue to stand with the democratic government you elected."

The United States is very grateful for your commitment in Iraq, and for your assistance in other fronts in the Global War on Terror. Albania was among the first countries to answer our calls for support in this war and your dedication has been unwavering.

Let me take a moment to speak to the families here with us today. There are no greater heroes than those willing to place themselves in harm’s way for others. Your husbands, fathers, and sons are a testament to the fortitude, and courage of Albania. We thank you for allowing your loved ones to serve and we want you to know that they will all be in our thoughts until they arrive back home.

Thank you very much and good luck to all of you.