Task Force Companies began to conduct relief in place with their outgoing units and from the 2nd SBCT 28th ID, consisting of combat reconnaissance and presence patrols. These were used to familiarize the TF Company Commanders and their platoons with their future areas of operations. The RIP was conducted over a period of 4 weeks, until the Battalion Task Force Commanders were satisfied with the knowledge and experience gained by the incoming unit, and the property accountability of the outgoing unit was completed. The first shot in anger experienced by TF 116 Infantry was only a few hours away. With the Company Team Task forces in position and ready to provide synchronized operations from different Combat Outposts, TF Regular conducted final preparations for full spectrum operations in the AI-Anbar Province.

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