Iraqis, Marines bridge culture gap
CAMP AL ASAD, Iraq (April 5, 2008) – A new union was formed between Coalition Forces and the Iraqi Army after the breaking of bread at a dinner here, April 5.
The dinner was the beginning of a partnership between the two groups where the service members of Combat Logistics Battalion 6 will share logistical experience with their counterparts in the IA.
“This is the first step with coalition forces stepping back and allowing the Iraqis to take a step forward to do their own missions,” said Gunnery Sgt. Robert D. Oehler, Intelligence Chief for the 7th Division of the IA’s Military Transition Team.
The group from CLB-6 plans on visiting the Iraqis’ work areas to see how they do things. With their developing rapport and new relationships, they also plan on giving them a glimpse at how they handle things with the 1st MLG, sharing their years of experience with the newly formed IA.
The Marines and Sailors spent the evening with their Iraqi counterparts, getting to know them better after a quick class on the Iraqi culture.
Once dinner was served, they talked shop with their counterparts as they tasted some of their culture.
“They all have the right mindset,” said Maj. Jeffrey V. Barnett, the operations officer for CLB-6, about his group of advisors that are working with the Iraqis.
“They’re positive about the relationship, and setting
the right tone for our Iraqi brethren that will give them the faith that we’re
here to help,” said Barnett, from Greenville,
Tenn.
Those in attendance already made plans for how to help the Iraqis and had faith in their new partnership.
Chief Petty Officer James A. Meeker, the senior medical department representative for CLB-6, believes that it is an obtainable goal after his visit with the medical advisor with the IA. Meeker’s plan was to start from the ground up, helping them with the basics first.
“I want to make sure they have basic medical equipment
and show them how to use the essentials,” said Meeker, from Britton, S.D.
The new union isn’t expecting to change the IA’s ways overnight. They are fully prepared to make gradual changes before letting the Army take care of itself.
“We’re here for the long haul,” said Barnett. “Once the relationship is established and built, we can bridge that culture gap which demonstrates that we are here for the right reasons.”
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