| The First Sea Lord has put on
record his thanks and appreciation for the job done by the
Naval Service during operations in Iraq.
Admiral Sir Alan West said that the Service’s task
was to “kick Saddam’s door down” to enable
the coalition to get on with the job of disarming the regime
and driving the dictator from power, and that the Service
had impressed everyone with their “sheer tenacity, guts
and professionalism.”
Admiral West also remembered those who died in the conflict,
and wished a speedy recovery to those who were injured.
The full text of Admiral West’s personal message is:
“Although military operations in and around Iraq are
not yet complete, it is clear that within the last week or
so we have reached a watershed in Operation Telic, with the
Coalition now charged with winning the peace and rebuilding
the country.
“While the work therefore continues for many, I wish
now to convey my personal thanks to you all for the decisive
role played by the Royal Navy in Op Telic and in winning the
conflict to liberate Iraq.
“While I will not dwell here on the achievements of
individuals and individual units – such stories will
no doubt come to light in due course, and I look forward to
hearing of them – the task that the Service was called
upon to perform was, quite literally, to kick Saddam’s
door down to enable the coalition to get to work, and to sustain
our forces whilst operations continued.
“There is no doubt that you have impressed friend and
foe alike by the sheer tenacity, guts and professionalism
with which you have gone about your task.
“The part played by all elements of our Service –
Surface Fleet and RFA, Submarines, Royal Marines, Fleet Air
Arm, Medical Branches and Reservists – have been outstanding,
underlining the unique and battle winning contribution that
maritime forces make to the support of the UK’s interests.
“I would also like to recognise the hard work and flexibility
shown by individuals and units in the UK and elsewhere, both
civilian and military, without whose support the operation
could not have succeeded.
“Finally, I would ask you all to remember with me all
those who gave their lives during this campaign, as well as
their families and friends. They will not be forgotten.
“For those who received injuries, I wish them a speedy
return to full health.
“My congratulations.”
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