Iraqi soldiers' progress steady despite logistical challenges [Image 2 of 11]

AL ASAD, IRAQ

07.23.2006

Photo by Staff Sgt. James Goodwin 

I Marine Expeditionary Force

Iraqi soldiers fire their AK-47s at stationary targets at a small arms range at Camp Al Asad, Iraq, July 23, 2006. Despite on-going logistical problems for Iraqi soldiers serving throughout western Al Anbar Province are, such as receiving adequate and fresh food, many are going the distance and not leaving the Army - a stark contrast from just months ago. At 2nd Brigade, 7th Iraqi Army Division - the headquarters element for three Iraqi Army battalions throughout western Al Anbar Province - a new leave policy which allows Iraqi soldiers to take 10 days of leave more frequently has led to a significant drop in the Brigade's attrition rates. Last month, about 50 soldiers did not return to the Brigade following their leave. The month before that, 460 soldiers went on leave, and 460 returned. Before the induction of the new leave policy several months ago, as many as 100 soldiers either returned late, or did not return at all after their 10 days of leave on any give month, according to Lt. Col. Greg A. Branigan, who spearheads the team of U.S. service members who mentor and train the Brigade's soldiers. "I think we're seeing the trend turn here," said Branigan. "Things are getting better. Every month, we're able to pay people?and fix some discrepancies. We'll get there." Currently, there are no Iraqi Government regulations which bind soldiers to their enlistment. "The soldiers are willing to fight," said Capt. Peter A. Wilson, the logistics advisor for the 2nd Brigade's military transition team. "If they've got good chow, a good place to live, they'll stay and fight." McMillon is a 38-year-old Marine from Dayton, Tenn. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Jim Goodwin)

• Date Taken: 07.23.2006
• Date Posted: 07.26.2006 05:26
• Photo ID: 26596
• Resolution: 1200x659
• Size: 319.86 KB
• Location: AL ASAD, IQ