Posted on 03/21/2007 6:18:38 PM PDT by SandRat
While on patrol, Iraqi Soldiers and U.S. Soldiers paired up in two man battle buddy teams so they could observe each others techniques and get to know their counterpart better.
The American Soldiers said they were impressed with how observant the Iraqi Soldiers were when they pulled security.
This is a really sharp group, they really know their stuff and theyre really squared away, said Sgt. Jerrod Border.
Their mission was to meet the villagers and to hand out fliers explaining how the people could protect themselves against the threats of improvised explosive device attacks.
I prefer doing missions like this one where we actually can see first hand the long term benefits, said Pfc. Jeremy Stone. A lot of times when we go on routine patrols, its hard to see exactly how were making a difference, but working with the Iraqi Army and seeing them do their part to help end the violence here and protect the people is a great feeling.
It is important to build trust with the Iraqi people because it fosters better relations with Coalition forces who can provide beneficial information resources, said Border.
Sometimes there are people who are a little afraid to talk to us because they may feel the insurgents are watching and may harm them, he said. But for the most part, the people want us here and everyday things are getting better.
The Iraqi Army is getting better at what they do every day, said Cpt. Scott Hequembourg. The people in the villages are getting friendlier and most of them just want to have a good life. Our biggest goal is to help the Iraqi security forces train up to where they can protect the people and eventually U.S. forces can leave."
(Courtesy of Staff Sgt. Jon Cupp 1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs)
In other developments throughout Iraq:
ANother Murtha Quagmire alert, huh?
ping
The Iraqi people have had a very short time to adjust to the idea of their army being their protectors rather than their oppressors, as it had been for decades. But the Iraqi army is convincing them and gaining their trust. Look for this on all the evening news shows. And keep looking.
Good reading SR, thanks.
Regards.
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