Reconnaissance Marines harden Iraqi Special Forces
CAMP RAMADI, Iraq – With Iraqi training and partnered operations taking priority in Iraq, Force Reconnaissance Marines have taken it to the next level, incorporating specialforces training with an elite group of Iraqi soldiers during a 10-day training exercise that started here, Feb. 7.
Story by Sgt. Dorian Gardner
Gunnery Sgt. Timothy Davis, platoon sergeant of 3rd Platoon, Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 6, assembled a group of team leaders, assistant team leaders and snipers to lead these classes.
“In the long run, the Iraqi Army wants its own reconnaissance unit,” said Sgt. Dwight Anderson, Team 2 team leader, 3rd Platoon. “We are trying to give them a basic understanding of recon operations.”
Now conducting their own patrols, protecting their borders, and patrolling their streets, the Iraqi Security Forces have come a long way since the beginning of this war. Their next goal is to develop the same advanced reconnaissance abilities recon Marines bring to the table. Reconnaissance Marines have undergone many months of advanced training in covert operations and advanced combat tactics, and they are eager to help open the door for these Iraqi soldiers.
Reconnaissance Marines operate on a different scale in comparison to an average infantry battalion. Trained to operate in small groups, a reconnaissance team executes a mission with a team of five or six members, rather than a squad of 13. They often operate without direct support in enemy territory for extended periods of time. They are the proverbial tip of the spear
According to Sgt. Maj. Mohanad Najah Abuod, 1 Battalion, 1 Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division, his unit has conducted missions along side Marines in the past, and trained with other special-operations units.
“We have received the best training from these reconnaissance Marines,” said Sgt. Maj. Mohanad. “This training has taught me and my soldiers a lot of things; different ways to attack the objective … how to support your men in a mission.”
As training progresses, the Marines will no longer lead their training, but walk along side them in drills and practical application. Marines are optimistic about the change of strategy for these soldiers, and according to Anderson, the soldiers are picking up basic maneuvers and adjusting their approach.
“They have already started to change up the way they operate and they learn quickly,” said Anderson.
Shortly after training is complete, reconnaissance and Iraqi soldiers will begin to put their new skills to the test outside the wire. Slowly becoming one of Iraq’s newest instruments in the war against terror, Sgt. Maj. Mohanad and his soldiers are ready to get into the fight.
For more information on the ongoing mission in Iraq’s Al Anbar province, visit www.mnfwest.usmc.mil.