“When we go on missions with them, we haven’t had to give them any pointers, they’re pretty much already on it,” said Sgt. Marcus Canseco, a squad leader for Company D who hails from Humble, Texas. Canseco has seen the Iraqi troops work under fire. “They’re just like any other infantry squad. They’re highly motivated and dedicated to the task,” he said. “The other day when they took fire, they handled everything very well and ended up capturing three detainees.” Within the course of this day’s mission, the Iraqi troops arrested 17 suspects and confiscated several illegal weapons. The day’s success, according to Canseco, is a testament to the Iraqi army soldiers and U.S. troops working together to gain the trust of the villagers in Hor Al Bosh. “We’ve been securing our patrol base here and making our presence known. A lot of the time we’ve spent here has involved meeting the people, and most of them want us and the Iraqi security forces here,” said Canseco. “We feel really good about what we’re doing here today.” Canseco said he hopes his troops gain an appreciation for the Iraqi people and the Iraqi Security Forces with whom they are working. “I hope they see how the people live here and earn a better understanding of the culture,” said Canseco. “I think it will give them a better appreciation for the freedoms they have back home.” “It’s a small town and it needs to be cleared so the people here can have a future,” said Willows, Calif., native Spc. James Boggan, an infantryman with Company D. “I’m just glad that we’re able to help the Iraqi army as they transition, so they can give their people a better life by getting rid of any insurgent elements in their town.” |