Opening of Prime Power Academy Marks Step Towards Mission Success

Courtesy Photo | Col. Richard Kaiser, commander of the 20th Engineer Brigade, describes the brigade coin prior to presenting it to Iraqi Col. Nazih, deputy commander of Ali Air Base during the opening ceremony of the Iraqi Power Generation Academy. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Christian Hall)  

ALI AIR BASE, IRAQ

03.30.2011

Courtesy Story

20th Engineer Brigade

By 1st Lt. Christian Hall

ALI AIR BASE, Iraq -- March 30 marked the first day of electricity generation classes for thirty Iraqi students. The Iraqi Prime Power Academy was developed and opened to address the shortage of qualified power generation specialists in the Iraqi military. Skill in power generation is especially important in Iraq, a country hindered by power shortages and spotty service. To mark the importance of the opening of the Academy, Col. Rick Kaiser, Commander of the 20th Engineer Brigade, of Fort Bragg, N.C., and Iraqi Col. Nazih, deputy commander of Ali Air Base, delivered opening addresses to the first class of Academy students.

Nazih gave his remarks first, highlighting the importance and necessity of opening the Academy. His advice was, “Be on time, learn as much as possible, and be sure to show your certificates of completion to your family and friends; you’re the first Iraqi class to receive this important training.” In his closing remarks, Nazih commended the students for their desire to participate in the training.

Kaiser followed Nazih and spoke of the importance of learning the powerful skill of electricity generation, emphasizing the dangers and the benefits. His comments included, “I have three pieces of advice: Learn, learn, and learn.” Kaiser also said that the training the students receive will be a great benefit to the students’ commanders, families, and country. Following his address, Kaiser presented Nazih with a 20th Engineer Brigade coin as a token of appreciation for the continued support provided by Nazih, in ensuring the Academy’s success.

Throughout the opening remarks, the students appeared engaged and eager to learn their new skills; this is a promising sign and makes tangible the US goal of a self sustaining Iraqi Military. Following the speeches, the students were introduced to their American instructors and began the first class at the new Prime Power Academy.

• Date Taken: 03.30.2011
• Date Posted: 04.12.2011 08:26
• Story ID: 68615
• Location: ALI AIR BASE, IQ