CAMP TAJI, Iraq, Aug. 5, 2015 – Since January, more than 60
coalition partners from around the world have joined Combined Joint Task Force
– Operation Inherent Resolve to help Iraq defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and
the Levant.
Leaders from the Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command
– Iraq, a component of CJTF-OIR, recently met to assess the current training
model for Iraqi security forces, and to develop lasting solutions in the
building partner capacity mission.
Among the topics discussed were the length of instruction,
capturing lessons learned in training through a comprehensive assessment
program, and leadership development.
For an army currently engaged in a war, the opportunity to
send units for longer training isn’t easy. Iraqi leaders have to balance
keeping troops available to fight ISIL and sending them to train at one of the
five coalition-led BPC sites across Iraq.
Capturing lessons learned from both combat and training to
improve the readiness of the ISF was one of the most heavily discussed topics,
along with the need for strong leadership within the ranks.
“An effective assessments regime is the mark of a healthy
learning organization,” said a coalition officer who oversees ISF development.
“Any gains we make in the field of assessments, especially when it directly
involves our Iraqi partners, is a step in the right direction.”
Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Green, command sergeant major of
CJFLCC-I, said that leadership comes with an obligation.
“Anybody assuming a position of authority or responsibility
has to meet the competencies required of that position,” Green said. “The most
important part of enhancing leadership is providing an example of 'what right
looks like,' and mentorship.”
One of the ways that CJFLCC-I accomplishes this mission is
by pairing ISF leaders with coalition leaders during training.
“By way of example and coaching, we look to enhance
leadership skills,” Green said.
The conference highlights the coalition’s
commitment to the BPC mission in Iraq as security forces fight to defeat ISIL.
Nearly 11,000 ISF and Peshmerga forces have been trained at the BPC sites, with
approximately 1,100 currently in training.