U.S. Forces Transitional Teams Aid Security Force Self Reliance
Kabul, Afghanistan
Part of the American Mystique is not normally leading from the rear of the pack. Our U.S. Forces are world known for our brave personnel, and the willingness to put life and limb on the line for the sake of duty. Most often our leadership is known for the willingness to lead with courage from the front, not the back.
However, in the fast paced War on Terror, our soldiers have also shown a fantastic ability to adapt. In the name of training and raising effective Iraqi Forces and Security made up of Iraqi Nationals, it has become necessary to lead by example, and then to allow Iraqi Forces to take the point, even when they make mistakes at times. Such a mode of leadership does not always come easily to the U.S. soldier, but it is still what is called for often in current circumstances.
More than thirty four hundred Airmen, Sailors and Soldiers have been tasked to help the Afghan and Iraqi Forces on the ground in becoming self-reliant.  These U.S. and coalition personnel make up thirty-seven different types of transition teams.  Types include, battalion level forces, motor transport, Supply, MP and Military police forces, and many other types.
Previously done on a service-by-service basis, starting in 2006 all transitional teams and training was consolidated at Fort Riley, Texas. Air Force, Navy and Army personnel all decided to join forces and centralize their training to better maximize efforts and resources.
On scene to assist, advise, demonstrate and mentor, these teams met with slow success at first, but as time has gone on the success curve has increased tenfold. There are different types of transition teams, and different goals, missions and objectives, but all are encompassed by the command located at Fort Riley.
