- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- AmericanHistoricalMilitary
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every March 19
- Holiday emoji:
- 🎗️
Operation Iraqi Freedom Day occurs every March 19, marking the anniversary of the 2003 invasion of Iraq by the United States and coalition forces. This day serves as a solemn occasion to remember the service, sacrifices, and enduring impact on military personnel and their families. Take time to honor veterans, educate yourself on the conflict’s history, and support those who served.
Want to sponsor Operation Iraqi Freedom Day? Learn how
Expected Operation Iraqi Freedom Day Deals
For Operation Iraqi Freedom Day, the focus shifts from commercial deals to profound acts of recognition and support for veterans and their families. Organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project and the Gary Sinise Foundation often run campaigns highlighting the needs of post-9/11 veterans, including those who served in Iraq. Many veteran-owned businesses, such as Black Rifle Coffee Company and Grunt Style, may offer special discounts or donate a portion of sales to veteran support initiatives. Major corporations like Starbucks and Home Depot, known for their veteran hiring programs and community support, may amplify their commitment on this day. We encourage supporting these and other organizations dedicated to the well-being of service members and their loved ones.
Platform Guide for Operation Iraqi Freedom Day
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Mention @NatlToday and use #OperationIraqiFreedomDay. Share historical facts, personal stories, or resources for veterans.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #OIFDay. Create a community post for veterans to share their experiences or for families to honor loved ones.
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #OperationIraqiFreedomDay. Highlight veteran employees or discuss the importance of supporting military transition programs.
Operation Iraqi Freedom Day Hero
General Tommy Franks
History of Operation Iraqi Freedom Day
In March 2003 the United States initiated war on Iraq. Hostilities began when Saddam Hussein refused to leave Iraq. U.S. aircraft dropped several bombs on a bunker complex in which the Iraqi president was believed to be hosting meetings with his senior staff. This was followed by a series of airstrikes and within days U.S. forces invaded Iraq.
This war was a result of the George W. Bush administration’s War on Terror which followed the September 11 attacks. Hussein went into hiding soon after the American invasion, speaking to his people only through audiotape. It took the coalition forces only three weeks to topple his regime and capture Iraq’s major cities. President Bush declared the end of major combat operations in May of that year.
This was the first of a two-phase war. The second was longer in which a U.S.-led occupation of Iraq was opposed by an insurgency. This war caused at least 155,000 deaths, in addition to the displacement of more than 3.3 million people within the country. Two years later in 2005, after an intense manhunt, U.S. soldiers found Saddam Hussein hiding in Tikrit. He was arrested and the trial began.
In June 2004 power was transferred to the Iraqi Interim Government and the next year in January 2005, the Iraqi people elected a 275-member Iraqi National Assembly. In October a new constitution for the country was ratified. There were no weapons of mass destruction found and the U.S. declared an end to the war in 2011, nearly 10 years after the fighting began.
Operation Iraqi Freedom Day timeline
The first C.I.A team, the Special Activities Division, enters Iraq on July 10.
At 5:34 a.m. Baghdad time on March 19, 2003 (9:34 pm, 19 March E.S.T.) the military invasion of Iraq begins.
Three weeks after the invasion, major combat operations end, and the statue of Saddam in Baghdad's Firdos Square is pulled down.
An order disbanding the Iraqi army and intelligence services is signed by the head of the Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq, L. Paul Bremer III.
U.S. troops find Saddam Hussein.
Hussein is convicted of crimes against humanity and is executed on December 30, 2006.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Operation Iraqi Freedom Day
Local businesses can honor Operation Iraqi Freedom Day by respectfully acknowledging the service and sacrifice of veterans. Consider offering special discounts or complimentary services to veterans and active military personnel. Restaurants might create a ‘Heroes’ meal’ with a portion of proceeds donated to a veteran support charity. Retailers could highlight veteran-owned brands or host a collection drive for items needed by military families. Ensure all messaging is sensitive and focuses on gratitude and support rather than commercialization.
Operation Iraqi Freedom Day FAQs
When is Operation Iraqi Freedom Day?
In 2027, Operation Iraqi Freedom Day is observed on Friday, March 19, providing an opportunity to reflect on the conflict’s history and its lasting impact on veterans.
How many U.S. troops served in Operation Iraqi Freedom?
The scale of Operation Iraqi Freedom involved a significant portion of the U.S. military, with hundreds of thousands of troops participating in the conflict. Their service continues to be a focal point of remembrance.
What was the duration of Operation Iraqi Freedom?
The main phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom spanned from March 2003 to August 2010, a period of over seven years. This long duration underscores the complexities and challenges faced by those involved.
Why was Operation Iraqi Freedom launched?
The primary objectives for launching Operation Iraqi Freedom in March 2003 were to eliminate perceived threats from weapons of mass destruction and to remove Saddam Hussein’s regime, aiming to establish a democratic government in Iraq.
How to Observe Operation Iraqi Freedom Day
Visit a museum
Spend the day at a museum and learn more about this period in American history. Learn about the legacies of those who fought for freedom and justice.
Have a movie night
Invite your friends and spend the evening watching movies that focus on the war and its history. You’re sure to be spoilt for choice.
Share on social media
Create a conversation online. Help share awareness of this day and its meaning.
5 Interesting Facts About Operation Iraqi Freedom
It was led by General Tommy Franks
The U.S. forces were led by General Tommy Franks.
The first Prime Minister was Ayad Allawi
The first prime minister of the new government of Iraq was Ayad Allawi and he stepped down after one year in office.
It was given a new name
Operation Iraqi Freedom was renamed Operation New Dawn in September 2010.
The number of dead is uncertain
There are numerous estimates, one made in late 2006 put the total at more than 650,000, but many other estimates put the figures at about 40,000 to 50,000.
There were mixed reactions to the war
Several antiwar protests occurred in American cities but many opinion polls showed support for military action against Iraq before and during the war, and as the war continued more Americans turned against it.
Why Operation Iraqi Freedom Day is Important
It is a time for reflection
It allows us to reflect on a significant historical period of our time. It is a time to observe and mourn for the lives lost.
It occurred fairly recently
The war was fairly recent. We can relate to the information and have some knowledge of the events.
It is educational
By observing and honoring this day we brush up on history and other interesting information about our country. Remembering the wrongs of the past can help us prevent them from occurring in the future.
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