Iraqi Police induct more than 1,000 to force
By Maj. Anna Friederich
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AL HIILA, Iraq (Army News Service, Feb. 21, 2006) � More than 1,000 Iraqi Police stood in formation Thursday, as provincial leaders and police officials praised the achievements and courage of the latest IP Academy graduates, welcoming them to the ranks of an elite force.

The IP academy graduates, decked out in their finest, displayed their best drill and ceremony techniques for the audience as they took the parade field for the formal portion of the graduation ceremony.

Speaking on behalf of the Babil Provincial Police was Brig. Gen. Qais Hamza, provincial police chief. He expounded on the accomplishments of those currently serving and the future of those joining the team.

Maj. Gen. Joseph Peterson, Multi-National Security Transition Command � Iraq, commended the courage of the newest IPs and their dedication in keeping the province safe from terrorist activity and moving the region toward stability.

About 50 IPs were awarded distinguished honor graduate certificates for their exceptional performance during the training. Quais, Peterson and Col. John Tully, commander, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, shared the honor of awarding the certificates and congratulating the security officers.

A demonstration took place on the parade field following the ceremony in which an IP bus, sirens blaring, entered the area followed by several law enforcement vehicles loaded with seasoned policemen.

As the vehicles slowed to a stop, the officers jumped from the vehicles and raced to the bus. They swiftly secured the area, using distinct tactical formations learned at the academy and cleared the bus of role-playing suspects.

Once they had the �terrorists� face-down on the ground and their hands secured behind their backs, they were escorted to the waiting security trucks and whisked them away to face justice.

The demonstration achieved its purpose: to showcase the skills taught at the academy and portray a potential real-life situation.

�It was very impressive and smoothly executed, a good combination of their tactical proficiency and road experience,� said Tully.

The day ended with a tour for the guests through the Hall of History which opened last month. Peterson marked the event by signing the guest book as dignitaries and IP leadership thanked him for his attendance and support of the force.