Photo By Sgt. Cheryl Cox | Before the ceremony came to a close, both graduating companies completed two pass and...... read more read more
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By Sgt. Cheryl Cox
1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The open field was filled with hundreds of proud Iraqi soldiers, who had spent the past two months working toward this very moment.
As the Iraqi Army (IA) Basic Training Graduation Ceremony began, more than 500 Iraqi Basic Training graduates prepared to do their final pass and review .
Not a twitch or wiggle came from the formations behind the steadfast Iraqi color guard.
Throughout the graduation, these new IA soldiers stood ready to defend their country and said they were proud to be the newest members of the 3rd Battalion, 9th Iraqi Army Division (Mechanized).
"I want to congratulate all the soldiers," said Sgt. Maj. Hassin Aboud Hassin, Iraqi basic training instructor.
After the entire graduating cycle had completed the hard work and training, their trainer said he was still there to help them grow as soldiers.
"I will be here," Hassin said. "I will continue to train more soldiers and fight the terrorists."
Observing this event were several senior Iraqi and Coalition Army Officers. Congressman Steve King (R), from the 5th District of Iowa, also attended the event. Congressman King was encouraged to see the enthusiasm and excitement displayed by the newest soldiers in the Iraqi Army.
"This is what happens when you see Iraqi troops stand up and defend Iraqis," King said. "You can tell by the spirit here that they will be able to take over all security in this country one day."
Once the graduation ceremony was completed, the celebrating began. With dancing and singing, the soldiers showed everyone in attendance just how happy they were to finally graduate.
"I am very pleased and happy to see these soldiers graduate today," said Hassin. "These are the second teams of volunteer soldiers to graduate. I am very proud and can't wait for the next class to join them in their new units."
| Date Taken: | 12.05.2006 |
| Date Posted: | 12.05.2006 10:17 |
| Story ID: | 8489 |
| Location: | TAJI, IQ |
| Web Views: | 311 |
| Downloads: | 123 |
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