|
|
Article: Odierno Assumes Command From Petraeus in Iraq
- Article from:
- The Washington Post
- Article date:
- September 17, 2008
- Author:
CopyrightThis material is published under license from the Washington Post. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Washington Post. (Hide copyright information)
|
Gen. Ray Odierno assumed command of American forces in Iraq on
Tuesday morning from Gen. David H. Petraeus, stepping into the job
as the United States starts to reduce troop levels and as the Iraqi
government asserts more control over security.
Odierno told reporters that recent improvements in Iraq's
security situation are reversible. Although the challenges that
bedeviled Petraeus as commander -- widespread sectarian violence
and entrenched militia and insurgent cells -- have ebbed
considerably, the country's volatile politics and several unresolved
regional and national disputes could easily spark violence.
"We are in a fragile state now," Odierno said. "What I want to do
is move it ...