On 30 January 2005, the 1st Marine Division assisted the Independent Electoral Commission-Iraq (IECI), the Interim Iraqi Government, and Iraqi Security Forces in making the necessary preparations so that all citizens of the Al Anbar province were afforded the opportunity to vote in a safe and secure manner. We saw mixed voter turnout across the province. The election could not have been accomplished without the hard work and dedication of every member of the Division. I cannot begin to describe how immensely proud I am of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines of the Division. Once again your warriors accomplished what many skeptics said would be impossible and turned it into a resounding success. The number of citizens who actually turned out to vote is inconsequential. What does matter is those who wanted to vote could, and those who chose not to vote were exercising their free and democratic choice not to.

Together with the Iraqi Security Forces and the IECI, the Division assisted in the establishment, security, and retrograde of 30 polling sites throughout the province. Our operations kept the enemy from affecting the security at each of these sites. Our mission was not without sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those coalition and Iraqi forces who gave their lives on this historic day. A free and democratic Iraq will be their legacy.

Although the election is behind us, our operational tempo remains high. We will soon begin the relief in place with the 2d Marine Division and begin our redeployment back to home station. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Although elements of the Division will return home soon, we will to continue to have units in Iraq with many more important tasks to accomplish.

May God bless the 1st Marine Division and it’s friends and families.