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Chairman of Joint Chiefs visits Ali Base

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Darrell Habisch
  • 407th Air Expeditionary Group Public Affairs
ALI BASE, Iraq --  Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, visited Ali Base Dec. 18 during his tour of bases throughout Southwest Asia.

While here, Adm. Mullen visited with troops, attended a meeting with Iraqi officials and conducted a news conference.

At the news conference, Admiral Mullen emphasized the importance of the upcoming Iraqi elections.

He stated that he does not underestimate the challenges, and that everyone needs to be focused so the elections can be free and fair.

The news conference followed a meeting with Iraqi government and judicial representatives and security leaders. At the meeting, the chairman listened to the concerns and challenges of the various representatives.

Those concerns ranged from continuing cooperation between Iraqi and coalition counterparts; security issues; building projects including new water and electric initiatives; possible new courthouses; increasing public trust in police and security organizations; the transition of responsibility from American to Iraqi forces and much more.

"I am very pleased to discuss these issues," commented Admiral Mullen, "and appreciate the opportunity to listen."

He also praised the absence of sectarian violence following the bombings. The admiral stated that he expects the Iraqi and American people to remain close friends and that future challenges will be met together.

"I'm happy that you are in the lead now with issues involving your country," he said. "We wish you all the best and look forward to a bright future."

Joining Adm. Mullen on his tour of Southwest Asia was a travelling USO contingent, including tennis star Anna Kournikova with tennis coach Nick Bollettieri, country music star Billy Ray Cyrus and comedian Dave Attell.

The USO troupe met with troops first at the Coalition Dining Facility for lunch, followed by a meet-and-greet session with several hundred soldiers, airmen and sailors at Memorial Hall for an afternoon of handshakes, photos and holiday well-wishing.

Although no entertainment was scheduled, Cyrus surprised the gathering with a rendition of the 'Star Spangled Banner.'