An Cosantóir

27 RAISING KIDAL Trainers and trainees wish they had more time but time is an exigency of any military mission and this too is understood by both parties. Nonetheless, the mission objective to improve the military capability of the KIDAL Company has not just been achieved but has surpassed expectation. The European Trainers draw similarities to their own situation of leaving home for overseas duties to those of these soldiers and their families. The anxiety is tangible and emotive. No one openly discusses the possibilities but all are aware of the risks. The trainers wish the best for their trainees and their families, and do their best to alleviate the uncertainty of the future, best communicated with a friendly smile, a high five or a moment to say "How are you?". Quietly whispered is the EUTM trainers desire to accompany their students on their deployment ahead, so far not permitted in combat situations, but indicative of the sense of comradeship between trainer and trainee and the epitome of the military spirit, "Never leave a soldier behind". "SUIVEZ-MOI" or "FOLLOW ME!" Members of the DDR KIDAL COY roar as they move in on target during exercise rehearsal. Confidence in your own ability inspires comrades, a lesson that it is reiterated to our trainees. Lead by example. The sentiment is a broader reflection on the relationship of this mission with our hosts, where perhaps as important as our training objective, is the mutual shared experience, new friendships and an ability for all of us to understand each other better. 1st COY KIDAL, as a collective, we thank you for the experience shared, we wish you every luck in your operations ahead and we hope we have made as much a difference to your professional experience as you have to ours. Go N'éirí an Bóthar Leat! The Irish Team in GAO, consists of Sgt Jerimiah O'Sullivan, C-IED & Tactics Instructor for the course, from Cork, (Pictured in the article). Hearts and minds can never be underestimated. The Malian Families living in the training area intrigued by our presence. A friendly smile does a lot to ease fears and is welcomed by all. Right to Left: Lt Eamonn Hennessy, 2 I/C for the DRR Training Course, Sgt Gerald O'Gorman, Infantry and TCCC Instructor for the course and Comdt Kieran Woulfe, On Scene Commander for the course and article writer Squad 2, DDR Coy KIDAL, 1st Military Region GAO, reflect on the completion of a training exercise, 08 June 2021, five days prior to operational deployment

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