80 Iraqi security forces finish NCO course

BAGHDAD, Feb. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. military trainers graduated more than 80 Iraqi soldiers and policemen from its noncommissioned officer academy in southern Baghdad.

The Iraqi security forces received additional training in armored combat patrols, marksmanship and classroom instruction on leadership skills, the American Forces Press Service said.

U.S. military instructors at the academy said the Iraqi service personnel are anxious to develop additional skills in the new face of the Iraqi forces.

The program is based on the U.S. Army's Primary Leadership Development Course, a monthlong course teaching the basic skills needed to lead small security units. Course topics include map reading, war-fighting and land navigation skills.

Iraqi police officers involved in the training said the graduation of the NCO class "means more power" for local security forces.

There are about 160,000 active duty soldiers in the Iraqi army alone, U.S. military officials said Friday.