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Coalition Forces Help Iraqi Navy Stand On Its Own

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS091124-05
Release Date: 11/24/2009 12:29:00 PM

From U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs

UMM QASR, Iraq (NNS) -- The Coalition Naval Advisory Training Team at Umm Qasr, Iraq has mentored and trained units of the Iraqi Navy and Marines for more than three years through in port, underway and classroom training.

A small unit of around 150 active and Reserve Sailors and Marines, the International Transition and Advisory Mission (ITAM) combines United States and United Kingdom trainers to help guide the development of the Iraqi Navy.

"Training a force of more than 2,500 Iraqi Sailors and Marines can make for exciting days," said, Cmdr. Chip Wrye, executive officer of ITAM-Navy Umm Qasr. "We have dedicated Sailors and Marines who make a substantial contribution everyday to building the Iraqi naval force into a sustainable coalition partner capable of protecting the territorial waters of Iraq."

Rear Adm. Scott Jones, commander, ITAM-Navy Umm Qasr, said the mission in Iraq is about more than just training the Iraqi Navy, but also about building partnerships.

"The Iraqi people, both civilian and military are working everyday to improve their quality of life and prepare their country for the future," said Jones, who recently commanded the Surface Warfare Officers School. "We're here to support them."

This partnership continues to enhance the Iraqi Navy's ability to provide protection of its territorial waters, oil platforms and maritime infrastructure.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.