BASRAH — The course, taught by U.S. Soldiers, was more of a refresher, as many of the commandos had already gone through similar training in the past. The course focused on using proper techniques at landing zones, loading and unloading from helicopters in secure and unsecure locations, and establishing perimeter security in hostile and friendly environments.
"These commandos approached the training with the right attitude and an eagerness to learn," said Sgt. 1st Class Jeff Keese, plt sgt and ARF training instructor.
"When the call comes in and we're needed in the air, there isn't much time to think; you have to be able to just react," said Spc. William Mautler, cannon crew member. "It's for that exact reason that we're making them go over the same drills 5 to 6 times, so when the time comes they'll be ready without a shadow of a doubt."
"We can't simulate the noise that the choppers make, but we can teach them to communicate without being able to hear," said Pvt. Cheston Bun, cannon crew member. "The hand signals that we use are universal, and the commandos have picked up on them at a much more rapid pace than we had anticipated."
Although much of the training was done on the ground, each of the groups did have the opportunity to conduct an actual flight response patrol. "We're thankful for all of the training that our U.S. partners have provided," said 1st Lt. Jassim, commando plt leader. "They've placed a great deal in making sure we'll be able to conduct ops on our own in the future."
