Soldiers assigned to B Co. 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, worked with noncommissioned officers assigned to 2nd Iraqi Army Division, on movement drills Dec. 3.
Soldiers of 2-7 Cav. demonstrated to their Iraqi counterparts the proper ways to high crawl, low crawl, how to conduct three to five second rushes, and individual movement techniques needed in an urban environment.
After positioning themselves in the dirt, NCO's cautiously held their weapons while crawling from one point to another.
"It's important for them to move effectively when they go out on their missions and if something were to happen, they will be able to survive by applying these moving techniques," said Staff Sgt. Eric Ortiz, an infantry squad leader.
Iraqi soldiers cheered on as their fellow Soldier dug into the dirt to make it to their designated safety area. The training that dirtied each of the soldiers brought them together as they fought for survival.
"They're becoming more proficient as soldiers and they're gaining more knowledge and motivation" said the native of Cayey, Puerto Rico.
Soldiers also practiced forming different movement formations. They learned which formation is best for different times of day and which is more appropriate for the type of fight they are in. Now they are ready to train their fellow soldiers.
"I think it's good to learn from the Americans," said Sgt. Khairy Majeed, an infantryman assigned to the 12th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division. "We're learning their techniques and how to train for the battlefield. What we learn here we can use to defeat the enemy," said the native of Shingal, Iraq.
Sgt. Roberto Garcia led the tactical movement class. He focused on individual, team, and squad moving techniques. By the end of the class, soldiers moved proficiently a sure sign that his efforts paid off.
"It's important for them to understand how to move properly and get to cover while fighting and providing security," said the infantryman. "I was able to refine their skills so they can go back and train their units. This training provides structure and stability and if they understand the roles of each position, then they'll understand the big picture," said the native of native of Plano, Texas.
Article by Pfc. Angel Washington, 4th AAB PAO, 1st Cav. Div.