Its deployment to Iraq at an end, the bulk of I Corps' soldiers are redeploying the next couple weeks to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM).

This is not to say that some of those soldiers have not already returned.

Over 120 soldiers from the Corps' Analysis and Control Element (CACE) redeployed in early December. 

An advanced element of about 100 soldiers returned last month.

The main body, however, is scheduled to return by mid-March, and I Corps Public Affair Office (PAO) will issue a press release prior to the main body and command groups' return, which will be headed up by Lt. Gen. Charles Jacoby, commander, JBLM, and Command Sergeant Major Frank Grippe.

I Corps' return is the first big return of what will be a spring and summer of major returns.  Four brigades will soon follow I Corps, returning to JBLM beginning in May.  These units include roughly 16,000 troops from the 3rd, 4th and 5th Stryker brigades, as well as the 17th FIRES Brigade.

The Corps has much to be proud of.

Upon deployment to Iraq, I Corps expanded partnerships at all levels, particularly with the Iraqi Ground Force Command (IGFC) - Iraq's counter-part to I Corps.

I Corps relationship with IGFC proved essential during every operation, particularly in partnering with  providing direction to various divisions.  This foundation of cooperation will further future work.

In June of last year, Iraqi sovereignty became a fact.  American forces exited Iraqi cities and turned security responsibilities over to the Iraq police and army.

The success of this transfer of power - which could have begun a violent period - hinged on the close coordination between I Corps and the Iraqis. 

Insurgents and terrorists were unable to target the coalition forces repositioning into belts around the cities.

I Corps orchestrated the merging of US Force-Iraq (USF-I) into a single command with one commander on January 1, 2010.  This merger also coincided with the one-year anniversary of the implementation of an existing Security Agreement between the two countries.

The transition reflects the progress taking place in Iraq.  Just as important, the work is part of the draw down efforts of American forces as it prepares to meet a withdrawal date of December 31, 2011, as outlined in the Security Agreement with Iraq.

While the Corps' service has reinforced the working relationship this country enjoys with Iraq, it also has greatly improved security throughout the country.

On January 6, Iraqis celebrated National Iraqi Armed Forces Day in Baghdad and in several over provinces throughout the country.  The focus of the day was to pay tribute to US forces and recognize the growth of the new Iraqi Army.

Although not confirmed, it is believed that Col. Kevin Kilb, commander, 62^nd Airlift Wing, JBLM, will fly the command group back.