What were the start and end dates of Operation Iraqi Freedom?

Operation Iraqi Freedom officially began on March 20, 2003, marking the start of military operations to remove Saddam Hussein from power in Iraq. The operation transitioned into a different phase, become known as Operation New Dawn, which formally concluded on December 31, 2011. This timeline is crucial in understanding the scope and duration of U.S. military involvement in Iraq, reflecting a significant historical military operation that aimed not only at regime change but also at establishing stability in the region post-invasion. The choice that provides the accurate dates encapsulates the full operational period of the mission, highlighting the complexities of extended military engagement.