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Iraqi Defense Forces Gain Strength and Leadership The New Iraqi Defense Forces took a strong step forwarded on March 11,
2004, as the first class of the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps's Non Commission
Officers graduated from the Primary Leadership Development Course.
One hundred sixteen ICDC soldiers participated in the historic and
tradition filled ceremony held at Camp Muleskinner, home to the 2nd
Armored Cavalry Regiment's Support Squadron, 1st Armored Division.
Given the important role NCOs play in any military unit, the ceremony
marked a new beginning for the emerging democratic Iraq and its home-grown
national defense. Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Bush, 1st Armored
Division command sergeant major, served as guest speaker and noting that
the class of NCOs "Are the history makers of this great country."
The U.S. Army - led course focused on six areas: leadership, communication skills, maintenance, professional skills, military training and military studies. Emphasis was placed on leadership and professional skills. The initial course was opened up to soldiers serving in senior leadership positions such as platoon sergeant through sergeant major. Attendees were recommended for the course by their U.S. Army partners. The respect that the Iraqi Civil Defense Corp's soldiers had for their
instructors became evident during the post-ceremony celebrations. The new
NCOs hoisted their drill sergeants onto their shoulders while chanting
traditional Iraqi cheers and songs as they carried them around the
hall. This information was taken from a press release issued by the U.S.
Army, 1st Armored Division Public Affairs Office. A full length
version of the press release can be viewed at: http://iraqcoalition.org/security.html | ||||
