U.S. Marines in Iraq carry culture cards

BAGHDAD, July 31 (UPI) -- When it comes to etiquette, the U.S. Marine Corps has its own answer to Emily Post for members stationed in Iraq.

Called a "Culture Smart Card," the primer warns Marines how to do everything proper from shaking hands to what to say in particular situations, The Washington Post reports.

The latest version of the primer, which came out in May, warns Marines to always use the right hand when shaking hands to greet someone or say goodbye, and to make sure they do it gently.

It also tells them never to point with one finger because it is a sign of contempt in the Iraqi culture.

The latest smart card for Marines also contains a simple history lesson, the Post said.

"Sunnis blame Shia for undermining the mythical unity of Islam and they view them as less loyal to Iraq," the card says. "Shia blame Sunnis for marginalizing the Shia majority and resent Sunni attempts to question their loyalty to Iraq."

As for the Kurds who populate the northern part of Iraq, the card describes them as "openly hostile toward Iraqi Arabs," the Post report says.