Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Phoenix Base
APO AE 09348

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release No. 090326-02

March 26, 2009

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DSN:  318-852-1335
IRAQNA:  0780-997-5063

Opening Ceremony of the Tactical Commanders Course

TAJI, Iraq – On March 22, the Iraqi Army held the opening ceremony for the new Battalion and Brigade Command Level Training Course.  The course is designed to provide commanders and prospective commanders with a “toolkit” for success that addresses unit operations, staff functions, administrative suspenses, and training all of which will be compulsory for newly designated battalion and brigade commanders in the Iraqi Army.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Steven Salazar, deputy commanding general, Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq, Joint Headquarters Army Advisory Training Team addressed a group of commanders set to begin the Iraqi Army’s version of the Battalion/Brigade level pre-command course.  Salazar  stated, “Understanding, Visualizing, Describing, and Directing are the commander’s key components in conducting full spectrum operations”,

The Iraqi Army, Staff Maj. Gen. Sameer, Commandant of Schools, told the group of nominees, “you will participate in this course of the commanders, you will conduct formations, hold staff meetings, coordinate your under commanders.”  He maintained that it is important to grasp the materials from the course and use the skills for all areas.  Sameer highlighted areas in operations, administration, logistics and training, “We must update our proficiency in tactical affairs and operational affairs in the field of fighting the insurgency and securing our country”.

The school in Taji is the primary training center for the Iraqi Army.  The school trains Soldiers in the Iraqi Army in Logistics, Maintenance, Administration, the Iraqi Counter-Insurgency Program, and Leadership courses on various levels.

MNSTC-I’s efforts in this operation help to highlight the commitment between the governments of the United States and Iraq in improving the capabilities of the Iraqi Security Forces during the critical transition from Coalition to Iraqi-led operations in support of a secure and stable Iraq.

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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING THIS RELEASE, CONTACT THE MULTI-NATIONAL SECURITY TRANSITION COMMAND – IRAQ PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE BY E-MAIL AT This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it OR BY PHONE AT DSN: (318) 852-1332 OR IRAQNA: 0790-997-4986.  FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR ORGANIZATION VISIT:  WWW.IRAQ.CENTCOM.MIL.