BAGHDAD - The Iraqi Army Engineer School, Bomb Disposal School and Field Engineer Regiment conducted a joint Basic Combat Training graduation ceremony for approximately 200 Soldiers at Camp Taji Nov. 30.
"Every time we see new recruits training to defend our country, we feel reassured," said Iraqi Army Col. Falaeh Ndem Jawad, commander of the Iraqi Engineer School. "We need them to provide stability and defend our borders."
The U.S. military needs the Iraqi Army to grow its capabilities, so we can leave having accomplished the mission - to develop a professional and competent ground defense force, said U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Balmore Vasquez, senior enlisted advisor to the Field Engineer Regiment, and a Miami native.
The 60-day Basic Combat Training course focused on infantry skills, including drill and ceremony, weapons marksmanship with an AK-47 rifle and 9mm pistol, first aid, physical fitness, Army values, and guard duty.
After graduation these Soldiers will move on to vocational training for their field-specific military occupational specialties.
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