CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, Iraq – Soldiers learn a variety of skills throughout their military careers, from basic drill and ceremony to combat operations. Each skill serves an important role in the day-to-day life of every soldier.
Spc. Zachary Parker, a cannon crew member, distinguished himself for using his skills, and potentially saving the life of an Iraqi soldier assigned to the Kurdish Regional Guard Brigade at Manila Training Center, June 28.
Parker, assigned to Battery A, 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, uses his knowledge of military tactics to train RGB soldiers, teaching them to safely engage targets and maneuver the training area without sustaining injury during courses at MTC.
“We looked at it as just another day hiking up and down the mountains towards the ranges to support the RGB,” said Parker, who calls New Gloucester, Maine, home.
During the culminating live fire event, Parker noticed one of the trainees showing symptoms of becoming a heat casualty.
Disregarding his own safety, Parker ran over mountainous terrain and pulled the RGB soldier into a shady area and immediately began administering first aid.
“It first felt like training back at the states; just one of those lanes we have to go through," said Parker, "but then I realized that this was for real and that this guy actually needed help.”
After treatment from Parker, the trainee recovered and went on to complete the day’s training exercises with his unit.
Parker's actions exemplified the warrior spirit of the U.S. Army and his dedication to the partnership between U.S. forces and Iraqi forces, earning him the title of "Ironhorse Strong" Soldier of the Week.