Afghan National Army: Taking the lead as trainers, educators

CAMP EGGERS, AFGHANISTAN

09.28.2010

Story by Guy Volb 

NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

CAMP EGGERS, Afghanistan – Three years ago it would have been hard to find basic warrior training lead by Afghan soldiers here.

Today, it’s more the norm as the Afghan National Army becomes ever more self-sufficient both in the classroom and on the battlefield. Seasoned Afghan noncommissioned officers belt out commands to their troops at Kabul Military Training Center reminiscent of U.S. armed forces basic training stateside.

“Afghan instructors have essentially taken full lead in training recruits,” according to U.S. Army Lt. Col. Mike Loos, task force commander for the 2-22 Infantry and senior advisor to the Kabul Military Training Center. “My soldiers serve as advisors and, at times, demonstrators. We are ‘behind’ them when it comes to basic training. In other areas that are not as mature, we are more directly involved, such as the newly established military skills instructor course.”

With the inclusion of more technical schools, like the military skills instructor course, training and education within the ANA has jumped to a new level of proficiency.

“The inclusion of these classes is essential if they’re to grow and meet the need for well-trained, competent instructors capable of training high quality soldiers,” said Loos of the new military skills instructor course which came online in July.

“And they’re excelling – as highlighted by their end of cycle skills testing for basic trainees,” the colonel emphasized. “Basic rifle marksmanship qualification has increased almost 70 percent in one year. Medical skills and capability have been enhanced as well.”

The challenges associated with building a new army from the ground up centers a lot around the time element – it’ll take some time to enjoy a generation of combat experienced, skilled instructors and cadre at the training institution.

“It’s the rotation of officers and noncommissioned officers from operational to training units that’s truly valuable for trainees early on,” said Loos, who is assigned to the 1st Brigade, 10th Mountain Division when stateside.

As the ANA takes on more of the training role, leads combat operations and enjoys successes on the battlefield, those soldiers will return as instructors providing insight to new recruits.

• Date Taken: 09.28.2010
• Date Posted: 09.28.2010 00:16
• Story ID: 57097
• Location: CAMP EGGERS, AF