Iraqi Army takes one more step toward self-sufficiency

Courtesy Photo | Leaders from the 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division discuss training with the 10th Iraqi army's newly formed explosives ordnance disposal team on Nov 7. The Thunder Horse Battalion is partnered with the Iraqi army to improve stability in southern Iraq.  

TALLIL AIR BASE, IRAQ

11.15.2008

Courtesy Story

4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs

By Capt. Robin Worch
2-12 Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq - An explosives ordnance disposal team, assigned to the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division traveled to Combat Outpost Six to train the newly-formed 10th Iraqi army EOD team on Nov 7.

The Iraqis have relied primarily on the coalition forces to provide ordnance disposal over the past five years. Iraq is now building its own EOD units in each of the provinces, with assistance from the 4th BCT, to ensure the units are trained and equipped to handle such dangerous missions.

"This is another step for the Iraqi security forces in Muthana," said Capt. Michael Flynn, commander of Company D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cav. Regiment and a native of Cleveland. "It makes them more self-sufficient and encourages them to take on greater responsibility and tougher missions, without coalition support."

The training started with classroom instruction, then elevated to hands-on practical exercises and culminated with a live detonation of TNT previously confiscated during a cache find.

The event provided another step on the road to a trained, professional Iraqi security force able to carry out stability operations in southern Iraq.

• Date Taken: 11.15.2008
• Date Posted: 11.15.2008 20:44
• Story ID: 26392
• Location: TALLIL AIR BASE, IQ