Odierno was named the new commander in a ceremony that took place on September 16, 2008, in Iraq. The ceremony was presided over by Defense Secretary Robert Gates. Odierno succeeded General David Petraeus. He was Petreaus's former deputy and was a key figure in persuading Congress to deploy a troop surge of an additional 30,000 soldiers to Iraq in 2007.Times Online: Ray Odierno Becomes...Mission in Iraq (September 16, 2008)

1. Born and raised in Rockaway, New JerseyUSAToday: Biographical Information of Lt. Gen Ray Odierno (July 19, 2008)
2. Commanding General of the Multinational Force Iraq
3. Served as deputy under General David Petraeus before becoming commander of MNF-IGuardian Unlimited: General Ray Odierno Profile (September 16, 2008)
4. Was Condoleezza Rice's military advisorBBC News: Profile: General Odierno (September 16, 2008)
5. Graduate of West Point Academy
6. Son, Capt. Anthony Odierno, lost an arm after being injured by a rocket propelled grenade in IraqGuardian Unlimited: General Ray Odierno Profile (September 16, 2008)

1. Army Distinguished Service Medal
2. Legion of Merit
3. Bronze Star
4. Defense Superior Service Medal
5. Meritorious Service Medal
6. Army Commendation Medal
7. Army Achievement Medal