AMTG3 preparations complete
Next rotation to Al Muthanna Province

Prepared: ASLAVs at High Range Training Area during AMTG3's MRE. Photo by Rob Nyffenegger

Volume 11, No. 43, May 18, 2006
By Cpl Andrew Hetherington

THE next contingent to be based in Al Muthanna Province in Iraq has been put through its paces at High Range Training Area in Townsville before its deployment.

AMTG3 CO Lt-Col Michael Mahy said the contingent - which deploys this month - consisted of up to 450 personnel drawn from 29 separate units and contained a diverse trade-skill base.

"The principal units that form the task group are 2RAR HQ, which is commanding the deployment, A Coy 2RAR reinforced, with elements of Spt Coy 2RAR, and A Sqn 2/14LHR (QMI)," he said.

"Nearly every trade in the Army will be represented in the contingent, with the only exception being Education Corps."
Training for the deployment began earlier this year and Lt-Col Mahy said personnel participated in a variety of training activities in two phases.

"The contingent came together at the end of February and we have been progressively working through combined-arms training built on the experiences from 2RAR participating in a battle-group CTC rotation in August of last year," he said.

"The first phase of the training covered IED threats, rules of engagement, search and detention, convoy protection, front-gate security, other security tasks and camp drills and routines."

The second phase of training focused on the practical operational aspects of the deployment and Lt-Col Mahy said this important period of training lasted for 10 days. It culminated with the Mission Rehearsal Exercise conducted by CTC in Townsville earlier this month.

The contingent's mission will involve providing a secure working environment for the Japanese Infrastructure Reconstruction Support Group.

Lt-Col Mahy said even though the Al Muthanna Province was one of the quietest provinces in Iraq, the contingent would have to be vigilant in its duties working in very hot conditions.

"Iraq is still a dangerous place, so we just need to be prepared, keep our guard up, operate as a professional force and get on with our business," he said.

Lt-Col Mahy said there was a high level of anticipation in the contingent.

"They are very eager to go, they feel well prepared and they and I are confident that they will do a good job."