FORWARD OPERATING BASE ECHO, Iraq – Soldiers of the 172nd infantry brigade “Blackhawks” are standing back as Iraqi Soldiers step up and implement knowledge learned from their American mentors in regards to planning and preparation for patrols.
The Iraqi Army and Soldiers from the 172nd Inf. Bde. are collocated at Forward Operating Base Echo in Diwaniya Province, which lends many opportunities for joint patrol missions and training with Iraqi Security Forces.
Armor Soldiers from Company C, 3rd Battalion, 66th Armored Regiment, 172nd Inf. Bde. conduct joint patrols with IA Soldiers to help improve their capability in conducting a spectrum of missions.
"Our mission when we go out is to partner with the Iraqi Army in order to assist in their professionalization,” said 1st Lt. Charles N. Sitz, 3rd Platoon Leader, Co. C, 3rd Bn., 66th Armd. Regt.
“We have transitioned now that they are leading the missions; they decide where we go and what we will do,” added Sitz, a resident of Hampton, Va.
The Soldiers of Co. C prepare for their missions with a briefing and pre-combat inspections to ensure weapons and equipment are ready.
Iraqi units discuss their mission planning upon rendezvousing with Co. C and conduct a series of drills; including a vehicle inspection checkpoint and dismounted patrol.
Following the drills, questions and suggestions to help improve the procedures and safety for conducting checkpoints and patrols are addressed.
“I think I understand what you mean by the distance we need to ensure vehicles stop in time, so we will move the cones back farther,” said Sgt. Ali Gareeb Yassim, a Iraqi squad leader.
Ali stood out among the Iraqi Soldiers as the older and more experienced leader who assisted the platoon leader in demonstrating and evaluating proper procedures for the platoon.
“I have done this many times and watched the Americans do these procedures; it is the right and safe way to do things. It is dangerous at times since I have personally experienced being shot at by an insurgent before returning fire and going after him,” added Ali.
The Iraqis appreciate this assistance and are more confident because of it.
“I do not need to tell you how I feel, because you can see with your eyes that the Americans have come here to tell us the right and good way to help our country,” said 2nd Lt. Ahmed Hadi Ali, 2nd Platoon Leader, 2nd Company, 4th Iraqi Army Bn.
“I am confident that we can handle the security of our country when the Americans leave because the Iraqi Army has grown strong and are ready,” added Ali.
