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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release No. 091104
November 4, 2009
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DSN:  318-852-8325
IRAQNA:  0770-443-6289

Pioneering Iraqi Women Graduate Basic Combat Training

AL MUTHANA, IRAQ – Forty-Two Iraqi women became the first all-female graduating class from the Iraqi army’s enlisted basic combat training course here, Oct. 29.

Iraqi army Staff Brig. Gen. Mohammed Abdul Razq, deputy director of the Tactical Training Directorate and Iraqi army Staff Col. Mohammed Abdul Rahman Essa, deputy commander of the Regional Training Center, delivered congratulatory remarks to the pioneering female graduates.

Iraqi army recruit Junde Lubab Ibrahim Kaleel said she was very excited about graduation. “It is important for me, for Iraqi women and for Iraq because we have a chance for a new life for the next generation,” Kaleel said.

Iraqi army recruit Junde Mona Kidam said she was happy about graduating. “It felt like being in college,” Kidam said.

The new soldiers proceed now to their newly assigned units, with the top five honor graduates selected to work for Iraqi general officers. Ongoing training continues at their home units. 

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