Interpreters crucial to Iraqi training mission Published March 15, 2010 By Master Sgt. Kimberley Harrison U.S. Air Forces Central Command combat camera CAMP TAJI, Iraq (AFNS) -- U.S. Airman serving in the Iraq training and advisory mission - Air Force must accomplish their objective to "Train, Advise, and Assist" but when the students speak a foreign language, how is it possible? One word: Interpreter. "What we do here is not just interpretation for conversation," said Joe, who's real name hasn't been disclosed for security reasons, an interpreter who has worked with U.S. and coalition forces for five years. "That is a different job. Any (interpreter) can do that. We must have extensive knowledge in the subject, whatever subject it is. " These particular interpreters could be considered the linchpin of the ITAM-AF's success. Although their experience is helpful and appreciated, it's the stability they provide between the different advisory teams who rotate in and out annually that makes a difference. "They (interpreters) provide additional continuity for us in case we have to question why the Iraqi airmen are doing something in a way not taught by the previous advisers," said Tech. Sgt. Chris Saffel, a 721st Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron ammunitions adviser from Hill Air Force Base, Utah. "We wouldn't be able to do our job without them." The interpreters are essential to the ITAM-AF mission not only because they can serve as cultural guides if called upon, but as a crucial means of communication with the Iraqi air force airmen who may or may not speak English. John, another interpreter, isn't only a communications engineer, but a retired, Iraqi air force general who is fluent in both Russian and English. He receives no increased pay or benefits despite his 20 years of military experience and education. His benefits are the same as someone just coming in off the street. "Our (interpreters) are unique," said John, who's name has been changed for security reasons. "We have advanced knowledge and skill levels the other (interpreters) don't have." The skill levels of these experienced interpreters have been proven invaluable, especially in the aircraft-maintenance arena. "Most of the technical manuals are written in Russian," said Sergeant Saffel, a native Aurora, Utah. "The manuals are used to teach the Iraqi airmen how to do their job. Without our terps, we wouldn't be able to train." Considering the Iraqi air force flies Russian-built Mi-17 and Mi-171 helicopters, it's easy to see why not all interpreters are the same. "Some people work with their hands," Joe said. "I use my mind every day to do my job." The average local-national interpreter wouldn't be able to aid the ITAM-AF in translating the complex technical data for the Iraqi forces in a way that's understood. "We have more experience and knowledge than most (interpreters) here about our job for the Iraqi air force," John said. "We have to not only understand English and be able to pass on information, but we have to put it in terms that are understood." "We've used their expertise a lot," Sergeant Saffel said. "They've been very supportive of us and our mission at great risk to their own safety." The interpreters continue to work with U.S. forces while enduring continued pay reductions, limited base privileges and unpaid mandatory vacation days. At great risk to themselves and their families, they could be viewed as the difference between a successful, well-trained Iraqi air force, or one still not ready to stand on its own. "If it weren't for their desire and dedication to help, we wouldn't be able to successfully complete the mission," Sergeant Saffel said. John has been approached many times to return to active duty, and although he knows he would have better pay and benefits, he turns down the request because he likes being a civilian. "I like what I do and there are no jobs available downtown," both Joe and John said. "But I would work with ITAM-AF with no pay if I had to because I believe in what I'm doing is good for our country."