An Cosantóir

| 13 Coy Sgt Setright instructing MAF Sgt English instructing on Sec Tactics Sgt Byrne with RIR colleague conducting a lesson trate on basic section tactics, techniques and procedures, encompassing basic soldiering skills such as camouflage and concealment, movement, judging distance, observation, weapons training, manoeuvring as a section, recce and CP drills. Phase three concentrates on infantry platoon operations: phase four on company operations: and phase 5 deals with operating at battle-group level. Weekly field-training exercises are conducted to confirm assimilation of instruction and the battle-group undergoes a final exercise to assess their operational effectiveness. As a platoon commander, I have to co-ordinate all aspects of training to ensure that all training objectives are achieved. This in itself has proved challenging. The first group of Malian trainees did not arrive task-organised or sufficiently equipped with the individual and collective weaponry required for the training process. Logistical challenges were also encountered but were soon overcome and training commenced. Methods of instruction had to be flexible and creative to ensure maximum learning outcomes for the MAF. We found that using more creative instructional means, namely visually stimulating ROC-drills (Rehearsal of Concept), delivered the best results. Before long I built up a professional rapport with my platoon (2 Pl, 2 Coy). I think there is a special bond between all soldiers, regardless of race, creed or colour, and the relationship we developed with the Malians was very positive and integral to their development, helping them to gain more from the training experience. Every day in Mali presents different challenges. The climate is harsh, with daily temperatures often climbing into the 500Cs. A significant portion of training is spent on foot, marching across rough terrain in full battle order, so good physical fitness is essential. Change is constant and understanding the culture and psyche of the Malians is important. A creative approach to training is needed in order to achieve the desired effect. I found they had a distinct lack of trust in their command structure, which often meant tailoring the training for success, which in turn promoted confidence within the ranks. Other challenges included the language barrier (given the diverse ethnicity of the MAF, lessons are translated into French, Banbara and Tamasheq, which makes for challenging but interesting days), cultural awareness, managing subordinates' expectations, lack of real-life support, welfare, morale issues and working in a multinational mission, to name but a few. Reflecting over the first training cycle identified a lot of lessons. From a training point of view the need to fully understand the Malian psyche is important in order to tailor the training for them; the need to train, mentor and develop their command structure; and the need for more combined arms training is also necessary. From a professional point of view, managing expectations, the maintenance of morale and keeping subordinates motivated are areas in which I have learned a lot. So far this has been a positive learning experience for me. I have achieved a greater understanding and appreciation for contingency operations in a multinational environment. I can better understand the mission's mandate, as part of a comprehensive strategy from the international community to support the Malian government in restoring territorial integrity. I have enjoyed working with 1 Royal Irish Regiment; the relationship we established has gone from strength to strength and it seems logical in future operations to take advantage of the ease at which our forces operate alongside each other. Finally, I would like to thank my team of NCOs for their hard work, dedication, understanding and advice. Lt Gaffney instructing MAF NCOs www.military.ie the defence forces magazine

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