BAGHDAD — A group 65 Iraqi women from across the country started army basic combat training here Jan. 27 to learn fundamental military skills including basic weapons handling and marching.
These women are just the third group of trainees ever to participate in the 45-day course, which begins with significant amounts of administrative processing, issuing of uniforms and other essential equipment just as their male counterparts would experience.
Although some in the group had security concerns about revealing their identity, others were so proud of their service in the Iraqi army, they wanted to tell their stories despite the risks. "I lost my husband and my son in an explosion," said one female soldier. "I have no one to take care of me and this gives me a job."
Unemployment is a major issue in Iraq and opportunities for women are few. It is still not easy to find a job in the Iraqi army, but the opportunity is there for those who are persistent. "There is a long list of people who want to get jobs in the army," said one of the youngest soldiers.
During his welcome speech to the new class, Staff Maj. Gen. Samir Al Basha, who heads the Iraqi army Tactical Training Directorate, said he hopes every student will complete the challenging training. "If any of you need anything at all, I am here to help," he said.
"Most of these soldiers have been through one of the previous rotations of training and returned to receive an update to army procedures and weapons training," said Lt. Col. Raad Hashim Mohammed, officer in charge of training.
Although many currently hold administrative and personnel positions in the army these women will also help provide security in the upcoming elections. "They will be responsible for searching females at check points as well," said Samir.
"The goal down the road is total integration of the female soldier in the Iraqi army," said Otis Brown II, senior advisor Iraqi Training and Advisory Mission — Army. "We are encouraged by the tremendous progress that we've seen thus far and we look forward to seeing the next steps the Iraqi Army will take."
Since the first course was conducted in June, 2009, 125 females have completed the training.
| Date Taken: | 01.27.2010 |
| Date Posted: | 02.03.2010 15:41 |
| Story ID: | 44867 |
| Location: | BAGHDAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 330 |
| Downloads: | 251 |
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