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More than 150 Iraqi soldiers graduate from academy

Photo By Luke Allen | An Iraqi Soldier displays his country's flag after a successful cordon and search at...... read more read more

FORWARD OPERATING BASE CONSTITUTION, IRAQ

02.26.2006

Courtesy Story

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By Pfc. Luke Allen
1st BCT PAO, 10th Mountain Division

FORWARD OPERATING BASE CONSTITUTION, Iraq - More than 150 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division soldiers stood proudly at attention Feb. 5 to receive their graduation confirmation following six weeks of grueling training.

The soldiers had just completed the Iraqi army's new basic training course and are among the first training cycles to graduate from the academy here.

The basic training course was run completely by the Iraqi army, but a U.S. Military Transition Team was available for guidance when needed.

Lt. Col. Hazim Abdel, executive officer for the Iraqi brigade, said he is proud of his new soldiers and that more recruits are on their way.

"These men felt very lazy before joining the army because many of them did not feel like they had a purpose before," he said. "Now they feel that they are doing something important by protecting their great country of Iraq. Soon we will have another group coming for the next cycle."

"It was interesting to see how the (Iraqis) do their ceremonies and how they conduct their training," said Sgt. 1st Class David Larson, MiTT, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, who is also a former Army drill sergeant. "It's a once in a lifetime experience."

Sgt. James Bates, also with the MiTT, said the team is on hand for both training and in real-life combat situations. The team is comprised of Soldiers from each battalion of 1st Bde. and from several other units.

"We are there with them, but they operate in their own battle space without U.S. assistance," he said. "We provide them with things, such as logistical support and making sure that they do proper reporting of what is going on in their area of operations."

The Iraqi soldiers improved their physical stamina by running three kilometers each day and by conducting combatives classes throughout their 1.5 month of soldier- skills training.

"We've given the soldiers very intensive lessons to help them while they conduct military duties," said Lt. Col. Hausim Hameed, commanding officer of training for the brigade. "I think that they will have great roles protecting their country when they join their new units soon."

Hameed added that his troops also mastered marksmanship, learned tactics and techniques for fighting in an urban environment and basic medical treatment procedures.

Anwar Yass, a new graduate, said he felt that the training he received was comprehensive.

"They taught us many basic things about the military," said Yass. "We knew nothing about this type of lifestyle in civilian life. We overcame all of the difficulties that faced us, and I am ready to work at any unit I am assigned to. I am happy to fight the terrorists and serve my country."