New Iraqi air force continues to grow Published Oct. 11, 2007 CAMP TAJI, Iraq (AFPN) -- The Coalition Air Force Transition Team, 370th Expeditionary Training Squadron, is continuing its efforts to populate the new Iraqi air force. A combined graduation was held Oct. 10 for four Iraqi air force maintenance officers, five maintenance supervisors, eight fuels supervisors and 54 enlisted flightline security forces personnel from the basic technical training course of the Iraqi Air Force Training School. "They say we are making history, but it is you who are making history," said Master Sgt. Kent Cundy, master of ceremonies. "We've provided you the tools to build your air force; now it's up to you to continue it." Lt. Col. Mark Ponti, the 370th ETS acting commander, told the graduating classes one of the highest compliments a person can be paid is to be called a patriot. "A patriot knows that there is something more important than one's self," Colonel Ponti said. "You are the first in your nation's new air force and you are the future of your country. You are all patriots, and I am honored to know you." Brig. Gen. Abdul Kareem, commandant of the Iraqi Air Force Training School, told the graduates the school was filled with brave and skilled men who will protect Iraq and its people. "I want to thank you for your commitment and your discipline," he said. Completing courses ranging from six weeks to eight months, the students received instruction based on U.S. Air Force training, but tailored to meet their nation's specific needs. "Our class was very receptive of the maintenance course," Sergeant Cundy said. "The students really want to make it work. Most of our students have prior aircraft experience, which enabled me to learn just as much from them as they learned from me." "As an instructor, it always makes you feel good to see your students complete a course," Sergeant Cundy said. "Knowing I'm a part of this historical event is very rewarding." "Our students' previous experience plus what we've taught them, are the foundation of POL (petroleum oil and lubricants) in the Iraqi Air Force," Tech. Sgt. James Gill said. "Culturally, we've learned as much from them as they have learned from us. I am very optimist that these 'janood' (enlisted airmen) are ready to secure the operational resources of the Iraqi air force," Master Sgt. Jeffrey Bishop said. Master Sgt. Shawna Mills said she was impressed on how far the janood have come. "We started from nothing and to see this outcome, it's amazing," she said. Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) View the comments/letters page