During the next few weeks, elements of the Division will be redeploying back to home station. The past year has challenged us in many ways and in each endeavor the Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of the Division have risen to the occasion. I cannot express my pride in the accomplishments of every member of the 1st Marine Division. In cities such as Al Qaim, Husaybah, Hit, Hadithah, Ramadi, Nukhayb, Ramadi, Habbiniyah, Fallujah, Karmah, Mahmudiyah, and Iskandariyah, we have faced a determined enemy and on every occasion the courage and spirit of the men and women of the Blue Diamond have carried the day. The capture of Fallujah and the Iraqi elections that followed in January can be viewed as turning points for the future of Iraq. In recent months we have seen hope and freedom begin to take root and we are optimistic that democracy will take hold. This is due in no small part to the hard work and perseverance of the members of the Division.

On many occasions I have used the phrase “One team, one fight” to describe our efforts in Iraq. The Blue Diamond was at times composed of Marines from all four Marine Divisions, the Army’s “Strike” Brigade of the 2d Infantry Division, the “Blackjack” Brigade of the 1st Cavalry Division, 2-2 Infantry of the 1st Infantry Division, Army Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units, Special Operations Forces, and the 24th and 31st MEUs. We would not have enjoyed the success we had without the support and efforts of these distinguished units.

Our success has come with a price. We will forever remember our fallen comrades who have given their lives in our mission. Our thoughts and prayers go to their loved ones.

I want to extend my thanks to the many volunteers who maintained the Division’s Family Readiness network. Your sacrifice and hard work throughout the deployment was critical to ensuring that our Marines and Sailors were able to focus on the tasks at hand. Your mission was vital and you executed it with professionalism and compassion.

We all eagerly anticipate our reunion. Every member of the Division will be afforded the opportunity to take leave in order to rest and adjust to life at home again. I ask your assistance in ensuring that everyone returns safely back to their home station after their leave period. We deserve to celebrate our accomplishments and our return home to families and friends, but we need to do it in a safe and smart manner.

May God bless the 1st Marine Division and its families and friends.