Progress toward reconciliation continues with second Sons of Iraq graduation

Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Jessika Greendeer | Former Sons of Iraq (Abna al-Iraq) became Iraqi police in a graduation ceremony at Al Furat Iraqi police training center Jan. 14. During the ceremony, students demonstrated tactical movements that they will incorporate while they are on duty.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

01.15.2009

Courtesy Story

Multi-National Division Baghdad

By Ray McNulty
8th Military Police Brigade Public Affairs Office

BAGHDAD – One month ago, 948 former Sons of Iraq registered as recruits to endure the rigorous training to become Iraqi police officers at al Furat Iraqi police training center. Upon completion of the course, nearly 900 of the perspective law officers officially joined the ranks of the IPs, or Shurta, to do their parts in helping to maintain the rule of law in Iraq's communities following their Jan. 14 graduation ceremony.

Numbering 894 men and three women, they are the second IP class drawn from former SoI to graduate from the academy. Last month, the graduating class of 1,031 IPs included 19 female Shurta.

"These two graduations are tangible proof that the government of Iraq has kept its promise. It offered Iraqi police jobs and training to former Sons of Iraq in recognition of their service," said Maj. Gen. Khadim, the Provincial directorate of police for Baghdad, through an interpreter. "We will continue to extend a salute of respect and partnership to those who wish to serve with us."

Registration has begun for the next class of IP candidates, who will begin training before the end of January. Early indications point to another history making class which is expected to include nearly 500 female recruits.

"This transition of Sons of Iraq into the Iraqi police is a visible sign of reconciliation," said Col. Byron Freeman, the commander of 8th Military Police Brigade, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, and a native of Norfolk, Va. "Every graduation like todays is a clear sign of progress. This effectively heals sectarian conflict with a sought after job."

Since Oct. 1, the SoI program, which was previously administered by coalition forces, has been the responsibility of the government of Iraq. Prior to October, the SoI numbered nearly 100,000 throughout Iraq. The timely addition of the SoI galvanized coalition force efforts and contributed to the successful pursuit of special group criminals.

• Date Taken: 01.15.2009
• Date Posted: 01.15.2009 04:22
• Story ID: 28853
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ