The 143rd in Iraq: Training the Iraqi Police, In Spite of It All

As a former Commander of the 143rd MP Company (1997-1999), this bare-knuckle blow-by-blow account of how my former soldiers performed so magnificently in Iraq made me proud, made me laugh, and even made me cry. — Colonel (Ret.) Stephan Picard Operation Iraqi Freedom VeteranFrom April 2003 to April 2004, the primary mission of 143rd Military Police Company, a Connecticut National Guard unit, was to recruit, train and prepare an Iraqi Police Force. From training for desert conditions in the dead of winter without the appropriate gear to driving through the night trying to find Baghdad with pieces of a map puzzle and finally to entering war zones without an adequate supply of soldiers, weapons or ammo, the 143rd Military Police Company did what they could, in spite of it all.Master Sergeant Marc Youngquist provides a firsthand account of the hair-raising challenges and heart-pounding hardships the 143rd endured in an effort to achieve their objective. Youngquist tells the story of these unsung American heroes, men and women who have served our country with limited resources and support.If you have ever wondered what it means when politician’s use the term “boots on the ground,” this military history of just one company’s experiences will provide you with an eye-opening narrative, putting you in the thick of the action with these brave men and women.Whether you’re interested in military history, American heroes, the Middle East in general or the Iraq war history specifically, or you simply enjoy a riveting story of bravery and dedication, The 143rd in Iraq is sure to please.For Fans Of:Scott A. Huesing's "Echoes in Ramadi"Brian Castner's "All the Ways We Kill and Die"Clinton Romesha's "Red Platoon"ReviewsAs a former Commander of the 143rd MP Company (1997-1999), this bare-knuckle blow-by-blow account of how my former soldiers performed so magnificently in Iraq made me proud, made me laugh, and even made me cry. It kept me on the edge of my seat, wanting to read the next page, and wishing I were there with them every step of the way. Knowing MSG (retired) Youngquist as I do, this detailed and, at times, disturbing, account of the obstacles the 143rd MP Company faced is the gritty truth as only a soldier’s NCO would tell it. To the soldiers of the 143rd: Well done and welcome home. I am grateful for this chronicle of your service, and proud of each and every one of you! — Colonel (Ret.) Stephan Picard Operation Iraqi Freedom VeteranMSG Younquist has again provided invaluable service to our nation with this book. His ability to relate personnel, equipment and training to mission requirements makes “The 143rd in Iraq” a must read for military professionals and civilian leaders alike. MSG Younquist’s real life experiences accurately describe the challenges leaders face today. I wish I had had this book when I was teaching in ROTC. — Major Robert E. Henry Judge Advocate, United States Army Reserve Instructor, Command and General Staff College Officer Course