U.S. Air Forces Central, Baghdad Media Outreach Team

Story by Master Sgt. Patricia Freeland

TAJI, Iraq - The Iraqi air force training school graduated its third and largest basic military training class, August 11, 2008. Nine Iraqi officers and ten warrant officers led 283 of their fellow countrymen through a rigorous physical and academic regimen that transformed them from ordinary citizens to professional Airmen.

The instructor cadre is assisted by a group of 65 U.S. Air Force advisors from the 370th Expeditionary Training squadron, part of the overall coalition Air Force training team. Lt. Col. Michael Dilda, deployed from Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., commands the team. He said in addition to graduation, the school can celebrate reaching some key goals within the basic military training program.

"When coalition forces stood up this school they worked with the Iraqis to set up goals they wanted to achieve within a certain amount of time," said Col. Dilda. "Some of the goals reached include the ability to run four training programs at the same time, having fully renovated facilities with the ability to house 500 students, and the availability of qualified Iraqi instructors to lead the courses. Today's class represents the attainment of those goals in the BMT program."

This BMT class was led by Iraqi instructors, under the supervision of their USAF advisors. The trainees worked hard, getting up well before the sun to clean latrines, make beds and practice drills. Their days ended long after sunset. Lt. Saef Ali, a lead trainer/supervisor, has been working as a trainer for six months. He's encouraged by the commitment of his trainees.

"These guys are not afraid of anything. They come to training and don't let anyone stop them. "They want to serve their country," he continued. "I feel proud to say I'm a lieutenant in the Iraqi air force."

The lieutenant also displayed gratitude for the guidance received from the USAF advisors.

"Sometimes, we had problems with water or uniforms and our advisors helped us work it out," he said. "We are very grateful for their help."

The air force training school also operates an air force academy, basic technical training and English language training. In just over a year, the school's cadre and advisors have trained and graduated 526 warrant and commissioned officers from the schools various training programs.

"In the next BMT class, the Iraqi instructors will have even more responsibility as the USAF advisors transition from a full teaching function to equal parts advising and instructing," said Col. Dilda.

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