Unlike U.S. soldiers, the Iraq's Company D soldiers see combat well before they ever receive advanced training. There is no Iraqi Joint Readiness Training Center to prepare them for combat; the combat is in their own backyard. The majority of Company D conducted live missions, having received only basic combat training much like that of the U.S. Army. They have not had the opportunity to train as extensively as the U.S. troops, but they bring a wealth of knowledge to the fight. "They bring knowledge of the terrain, knowledge of the people and the knowledge of what it takes to provide security for this area," said Lartigue. For Iraqi Pvt. Malik Karin Hussain, the war in Iraq is a chance to right the wrongs of Saddam's regime. His uncle was killed by soldiers from the former regime and his brother died while serving in their army. Malik and his family never received an explanation for his brother's death. Malik says he joined the Iraqi army for threereasons: "I want to defend my country, I hate the old system (Saddam's regime), and I need the money to support my family." Not all have the same history as Malik, but most feel a common call to duty. "If I don't join the Army, who will; who will fight for my country?" said Iraqi Cpl. Sharif Athob Tarish. The soldiers serving in the Iraqi army carry many scars from the past but remain hopeful for the future of their country. "I am hopeful that the future will be peaceful," said Malik, "and one day Iraq will have friendly relations with all the nations of the world." |