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This column is the third and intended final in a series that explains some of the differences between the U.S. and Iraqi Armies.

The source of many of the differences between the U.S. and Iraqi armies derives from the U.S. Army being significantly more established.  The U.S. Army has a great deal of experience instilling personal commitment, mentoring leaders, and training and supplying its Soldiers.  The most deep-rooted difference, though, illustrates cultural differences between the two nations.

Honor, pride and stature are much more heavily emphasized in Arab cultures, such as Iraq, than in the U.S.  American men can relate to wanting to feel like they are they king of their castles and important in their households.  Iraqi men are more likely to need to feel, not only that they are king, but also that others in the community recognize them as king and important.  The concept transfers to Iraqi military officers.

U.S. military officers are trained to feel a sense of service to their Soldiers.  Leading is an honor.  Ensuring the well-being of Soldiers is a duty not only to them but to our country.

Iraqi officers, however, are more likely to view their Soldiers as serving them.  Quite literally, Iraqi Soldiers serve commanders.  Serve them tea, drinks and food, for example, on platters.

Instead of channeling activities of Soldiers towards meeting a higher commander’s guidance, Iraqi officers execute the missions with the help of Soldiers.

To illustrate, leaders in the U.S. Army go to great lengths to explain the situation and mission to all Soldiers.  Before conducting an operation, leaders explain not only the situation and the plan of action for the mission but also its purpose. 

The U.S. Army believes that, when Soldiers know why we are conducting a mission, then the Soldier can believe in its importance.  Conversely, the mission brief that an Iraqi Soldier might receive is when he is told to get his weapon, because he is going out with an officer.

Additionally, U.S. Soldiers of all kinds absolutely wear helmets and body armor and carry rifle while on missions.  Iraqi officers do not.  They will walk about a battlefield, directing Soldiers’ actions and standing tall.  Wearing gear would show weakness.  Perception of strength is more valuable than personal security.

As American combat advisors work with Iraqi officers, we stress training, planning and supply issues.  However, cultural differences are not arenas that we will be able to influence.  After all, this is what makes them Iraqi, and they will prosper under a system of their own creation.

An Iraqi Soldier serves tea to Iraqi and U.S. officers. This is an unlikely task for American Soldiers.

Personal guards posted outside an Iraqi officer's door is a common sight. Many Iraqi officers have credible threats on their lives.