US Army in back seat as Iraqi forces take over

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2009

MOSUL, Iraq (AFP) — US Army Lieutenant Dan Wagner arrived in Iraq six months ago knowing his country was no longer calling the shots when it came to security, but he is resigned to further massive changes within days.

"It's tough to take a standback role," says the 24-year-old Westpointer, as his soldiers patrol behind a group of Iraqi troops conducting a search and census operation in Al-Naherwa, a district in western Mosul.

"I want to be doing stuff and so do my men, but this is the way it's gonna be," adds the fresh-faced platoon leader from the 3rd Batallion 8th Cavalry regiment, part of the 3,500-strong US force based around Mosul.

American troops will no longer be allowed in Iraqi cities and major towns after June 30, under the terms of a landmark security...