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    Opening of Prime Power Academy Marks Step Towards Mission Success

    Opening of Prime Power Academy Marks Step Towards Mission Success

    Courtesy Photo | Col. Richard Kaiser, commander of the 20th Engineer Brigade, describes the brigade...... read more read more

    ALI AIR BASE, IRAQ

    03.30.2011

    Courtesy Story

    20th Engineer Brigade

    By 1st Lt. Christian Hall

    ALI AIR BASE, Iraq -- March 30 marked the first day of electricity generation classes for thirty Iraqi students. The Iraqi Prime Power Academy was developed and opened to address the shortage of qualified power generation specialists in the Iraqi military. Skill in power generation is especially important in Iraq, a country hindered by power shortages and spotty service. To mark the importance of the opening of the Academy, Col. Rick Kaiser, Commander of the 20th Engineer Brigade, of Fort Bragg, N.C., and Iraqi Col. Nazih, deputy commander of Ali Air Base, delivered opening addresses to the first class of Academy students.

    Nazih gave his remarks first, highlighting the importance and necessity of opening the Academy. His advice was, “Be on time, learn as much as possible, and be sure to show your certificates of completion to your family and friends; you’re the first Iraqi class to receive this important training.” In his closing remarks, Nazih commended the students for their desire to participate in the training.

    Kaiser followed Nazih and spoke of the importance of learning the powerful skill of electricity generation, emphasizing the dangers and the benefits. His comments included, “I have three pieces of advice: Learn, learn, and learn.” Kaiser also said that the training the students receive will be a great benefit to the students’ commanders, families, and country. Following his address, Kaiser presented Nazih with a 20th Engineer Brigade coin as a token of appreciation for the continued support provided by Nazih, in ensuring the Academy’s success.

    Throughout the opening remarks, the students appeared engaged and eager to learn their new skills; this is a promising sign and makes tangible the US goal of a self sustaining Iraqi Military. Following the speeches, the students were introduced to their American instructors and began the first class at the new Prime Power Academy.

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 03.30.2011
    Date Posted: 04.12.2011 08:26
    Story ID: 68615
    Location: ALI AIR BASE, IQ

    Web Views: 242
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN