British Maj. Gen. Andy Salmon has assumed command of Multi-National Division — South East in Iraq, taking over the mission that includes responsibility for an area encompassing Basra and other key southern cities.

The outgoing commander was Maj. Gen. Barney White-Spunner.

Salmon’s headquarters, the Royal Navy UK Amphibious Force staff, also takes over for White-Spunner’s 3 (UK) Division staff.

Attendees at the ceremony included U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, who runs ground operations in Iraq, and Maj. Gen. Mohammed, commander of the Iraqi Army in Basra.