I could have sworn I saw this story in the NY Times. Hmph. Can't seem to find it, though
RIYADH, Iraq, March 21, 2007 — The Iraqi army soldiers’ flashlights pierce the darkness as they search the Riyadh marketplace for any wires or materials that may indicate the emplacement of an improvised explosive device in the area. Following close behind are U.S. soldiers from D Company, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, who work closely with the Iraqi army to conduct searches of various parts of the city.
“Every mission we do, IA or Iraqi police are with us, and we search the marketplace a lot,” said Sgt. Shaun Raymond, a squad leader with D Company. “The marketplace is the main place we’ll hit up because it’s completely crowded during the day and we don’t have a chance to search it too well. At night, it’s a lot easier to search thoroughly.”
Since D Company’s arrival, one of its goals has been to train the Iraqi army soldiers so that they can take the lead in operations in the city. The Iraqi troops have made significant progress towards that goal, which can be seen in their conduct during joint operations, said Raymond.
“In the beginning, the IA just kind of wandered around and had no idea what was going on. Tonight they moved together rather than one guy going over here and everyone else doing their own thing,” Raymond said. “They have a much better idea and are a lot more confident in what they’re doing.”
So things are getting better and better. The IA and police are able to do their jobs better and better, and will be able to completely stand on their own soon. Is that making the MSM?
