Live in Iraq

Lance Cpl. Josh Cox

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Aug. 30, 2005) -- A team of focused soldiers equipped with helmets, protective vests and weapons swiftly move through a destroyed building to make sure it is clear for further movement. This situation was just one of the several training scenarios the Iraqi Security Force rehearsed here this week.

“This is like their school of infantry,” said Lance Cpl. Andrew E. Thibault, advisor’s aid, 1st Platoon, 2nd Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team Company, 4th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, II Marine Expeditionary Force (FWD). “It is just advanced infantry tactics.”

The day included urban terrain training, as well as convoy movement tactics, vehicle searches and individual search drills.

“The purpose of the training is a combined effort with the U.S. Marine Corps and the new Iraqi army to help the Iraqi people to have a strong defense and unified country in order to sustain democracy,” said Gunnery Sgt. Paul W. Vanek, advisor, Military Training Team 6, Iraqi Security Force.

The soldiers are fresh out of basic training, which is drafted from training U.S. forces undergo in the early stages of their military careers.

McKirahan said the training is progressing, and the Iraqi soldiers of Romeo Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 7th Division, are aimed to graduate soon and will transfer to their duty stations to aid in the security of Iraq.

“They are doing a lot better than they were in basic training,” said Cpl. John A. McKirahan, advisor’s aid, 1st Plt, 2nd FAST Co., 4th MEB, II MEF (FWD). “They slowly but surely learn everything [the instructors] teach them.”

According to McKirahan, even though the training is making headway, there are some mild frustrations that come along with the evolution; such as language barriers.

However, the Marines who train the Iraqi Security Force overcome the hurdles and continue on with the mission.

“You learn a lot of the language while working with them,” said McKirahan.

Helping equip the Iraqi Security Force with the tools they need to make their home a safer place is just another way the Corps is aiding in operations for the security and stability of Iraq.

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