The last American combat brigade based in Iraq is leaving the country.
The troops are pulling out in accordance with President Barack Obama's stated policy of ending combat duties in Iraq by the end of August.
The military drawdown has been going on since last year, but when the 4th Stryker Brigade crosses the border into Kuwait the US combat presence will be effectively over, the BBC reports.
They will leave behind 50,000 soldiers who will continue to support the Iraqi government in its efforts to rebuild the country and strengthen law and order.
They will be armed but will only use their weapons in self-defence or at the request of the Iraqi government.
The US State Department spokesperson PJ Crowley says America's involvement was far from over, but it would be less intrusive and more civilian focused than military.
