CONTINGENCY OPERATING STATION GARRYOWEN, Iraq – The citizens of Iraq took a more independent role in securing their country beginning with the Security Agreement signed June 30, 2009. In support of this goal, the Scout Platoon from Headquarters Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, is conducting joint operations and training with the 38th Iraqi Army Brigade Commandos.
The Scout Platoon is developing the Commando leadership with instruction on how to be more effective trainers for their jundee (soldiers). This will help the Iraqi’s to continue quality training after the drawdown of U.S. forces.
“I believe this is a great opportunity to develop our Soldiers by allowing them to instruct and mentor their Iraqi counterparts,” said Staff Sgt. Adam Wilson, section sergeant from San Antonio, Texas. The noncommissioned officers of the Scout platoon take great pride in this mission and know the importance of the training.
“Throughout the United States Army’s history, noncommissioned officers have trained and taught not only their Soldiers, but soldiers in foreign militaries, and I’m glad to be a part of it,” said Staff Sgt. Daniel Salazar, section sergeant from Downey, Calif.
The Iraqi commandos are not the only ones learning. In turn, they teach classes to the Scouts on Iraqi Army-related subjects, such as the capabilities of the AK-47--the Commandos’ primary weapon.
The knowledge obtained from the training is put to the test when the Commandos and Scouts conduct counter-indirect fire patrols.
They move in formations across the Maysan Province in order to identify rocket launch sites and to deter any insurgent indirect fire operations. Between the classes and patrols the Commandos and Scouts have developed a strong relationship.
“I enjoy going over there, they always seem so happy and eager to see us,” said Staff Sgt. Patrick Williams, a senior Scout from San Antonio, Texas. Together, the Commandos and Scouts have taught and conducted over 10 classes.
Their partnership and training continues to flourish, and, as a result, the 38th Iraqi Army Commandos are able to secure their province with minimum assistance from U.S. Forces.
