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Stryker Brigade Soldiers train Iraqi recruits

Jun- 2-2004 » Filed Under: 3/2 SBCT

[Link to Full Article]
By Sgt. Fred Minnick

MOSUL, Iraq (Army News Service, June 2, 2004) -- In Qayarrah, a new group of recruits are training to be infantry soldiers in the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps.

The men were once farmers, taxi drivers and some even served in the former Iraqi army. No matter what their past was, these men took a vow to serve their country, under new leadership, and wear a uniform that symbolizes the future of Iraq.

“I am proud to serve my country,” said Pvt. Amer Yahya. “I want to protect my people from enemies who want to harm my homeland.”

Yahya’s quest to become a soldier began in April when he and 7,000 other men applied to join a new ICDC battalion that is being formed in the Tigris River Valley area. After background checks and interviews, 900 recruits were selected for the battalion. ICDC leaders spent a week with the newly enlisted men to ensure they wanted to be Soldiers.

Currently, a company – made up of officers, noncommissioned officers and enlisted men – is undergoing a gritty three-week basic training course instructed by Coalition forces. The other companies will begin training in July.

“Part of rebuilding Iraq is rebuilding Iraq’s military,” said Sgt. Jessy Johnston, a primary instructor with Company C, 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team). “It’s important that we train them well, so they can defend themselves and their country when we leave.”


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