ANP recruits improve rifle skills at JSAS

AFGHANISTAN

09.09.2010

Story by Cpl. Brian Gabriel Jr. 

Regional Command Southwest

Afghan National Police recruits honed their basic marksmanship skills with the help of coalition force instructors at the Joint Security Academy Southwest at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan Sept. 9.

The recruits, aided by Marine and Afghan Ministry of Interior instructors, spend approximately one week fine-tuning their precision with AK-47 rifles during their eight-week training course at JSAS.

Similar to the rifle range week Marine Corps recruits must pass before graduating, ANP recruits learn how to fire their weapons effectively in the kneeling, prone, and standing positions. Instructors also pass on advice on how to keep their rifles steady through breathing techniques and proper firing stances.

The Ministry of Interior instructor, 3rd Lt. Abdul Muteleb, oversaw the day’s training at JSAS, making sure the recruits not only adhered to the standards set by their Marine instructors, but also to the guidelines set by MOI. Muteleb left the weapons training session extremely pleased with the performance of his future police officers.

“Today was the third day of weapons training on the range—qualification day for the recruits,” Muteleb said. “They are looking really good so far. If they keep doing their best, the recruits will be great sharpshooters in the future. I am very happy with their performance today.”

Muteleb emphasized that his future police officers need to be especially attentive during their week at the rifle range. Following the instructions they receive at JSAS may be the difference between life or death when patrolling their home districts. The Takhar province resident expressed that weapons handling needs to be second nature for police officers working in the field.

“Because we are involved in a war right now, the recruits should try to get as much experience with the weapons as possible,” Muteleb said. “The tactics they learn here will allow them to eliminate threats as soon as possible.”

The majority of the ANP class passed the rifle range qualification day, surpassing both Afghan and Marine instructors expectations. The instructors were especially impressed by Saidjalil, a recruit who shot exceedingly well during training. His teachers made time during the training day to congratulate him on his nearly-flawless performance.

“Today was a test for me,” Saidjalil said. “I wanted to show everyone that Afghans are excellent marksmen.”

Saidjalil attributed his outstanding marksmanship to a combination of instruction by Marines and British soldiers. Prior to joining the police force, he spent two years training and working with British Special Forces. Saidjalil said that he will continue to use the skills taught to him by coalition forces to improve daily life for his people.

“My country needs me to serve,” Saidjalil said. “My country needs me to provide security for own family and my countrymen.”

• Date Taken: 09.09.2010
• Date Posted: 09.10.2010 09:42
• Story ID: 56010
• Location: AF