Courtesy Photo | Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division look for contraband...... read more read more
By 1st Lt. Ryan Osterman
2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment
BAGHDAD – A 'cordon and knock' operation in Bakriya Village put Iraqi Army troops in the lead, gaining them tactical expertise as they assume greater control of a western portion of the Iraqi capital.
Members of the 1st Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division spearheaded mission planning and execution Dec. 12, while receiving guidance from leaders and Soldiers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Divsion.
"(The) Iraqi Army demonstrates a genuine desire to learn from U.S. Soldiers. They are eager to conduct operations in sector and seem to be committed to making Iraq a safer place," said 1st Lt. Erik Klapmeier, a platoon leader with Company C.
Prior to the mission, U.S. Soldiers instructed Iraqi Army troops on techniques used to enter and search a building. With new recruits arriving daily, the experience level for troops in the Iraqi Army varies. The vast majority were knowledgeable and proficient in the tasks trained, although some were being exposed to these concepts for the first time.
The training allowed the Iraqi Army to see U.S. Soldiers perform tasks and then to mimic their actions. While Soldiers were rehearsing, Iraqi Army platoon leaders were planning the upcoming mission with advice from their U.S. counterparts.
During the search, Iraqi Army leaders were in command. They maintained control of their troops providing perimeter security while searching houses within the village.
U.S. troops were attached to each Iraqi Army element to boost their confidence and ensure mission completion.
"Watching the Iraqi Army conduct operations gives our Soldiers confidence that soon they will be able to take a step back and let the Iraqis take control of their country," said Sgt. Chris Schmidt, a gunner in Company C.
| Date Taken: | 12.12.2006 |
| Date Posted: | 01.02.2007 12:20 |
| Story ID: | 8721 |
| Location: | BAGHDAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 273 |
| Downloads: | 174 |
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