Military parade in Iraq to commemorate the 91st anniversary of the Iraqi army 0701124.

Saturday, January 7, 2012, 10:14 AM

A military parade was held today to commemorate the 91st anniversary of the Iraqi army, which is the first since US forces withdrawal. The ceremony was attended by Premier Nouri al-Maliki, acting defence minister Sadoun Dulaimi, chief of staff Babakr Zebari and a number of ministers, senior officials and diplomatic missions accredited to Iraq.

Several types of forces took part in the parade, including tanks, APCs and helicopters.

This is the first military parade since US forces withdrawal at the end of last year.

Parliament Security and Defence Commission member Haki al-Zamili pointed out that the army needs more time to hand over the internal security to the Interior Ministry.

"I think the army will continue its present tasks this year and many changes shall take place according to security situation", he elaborated.

On 6 January the first force was formed in 1921 on voluntary basis, but enlisted participation took place in 1935.