Marines, Ghanaians team up to improve military interoperability 

The mission of SCMAGTF is to provide military instruction in order to increase the GAF’s ability to conduct stabilization and security operations while continuing to strengthen relationships with partner nations.

Each morning, Staff Sgts. Carl Norris and Jeremy Donaldson, amphibious assault vehicle crewmen, SCMAGTF, begin the day with Marine Corps Martial Arts Program drills.  They selected some of the most effective fighting methods to demonstrate to the Ghanaian forces.

“We don’t have a lot of time to (work with) the Ghanaians, so we selected the most important techniques from each level and compressed them to meet our schedule,” said Donaldson.

Throughout the rest of the day, core competency classes are taught by infantrymen with the ground combat element.  Ghanaians are then given the opportunity for practical application of each topic they are learning.

"They are really excited to be working with the Marines," said Lance Cpl. David Annis, a rifelman with the SCMAGTF.  "They are eager to learn, and it makes teachign the class enjoyable."

Over the next two and a half weeks, the Ghanaians will learn, practice, and apply the fundamentals taught by the Marines.

“The main focus of our (efforts) is humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, but we are also (demonstrating) MCMAP, combat life saving techniques, weapons conditions, basic land navigation, field radio operations and basic leadership skills,” said Gunnery Sgt. James Baum, senior enlisted Marine for the SCMAGTF team in Ghana.

Each topic is covered by a different instructor, giving the Ghanaian troops the opportunity to experience various leadership styles. The goal of the military-to-military familiarization events is to promote military interoperability between the U.S. and Ghana.

“I love being here in Ghana,” said Staff Sgt. Bernard Cooks, 2nd platoon commander, GCE, SCMAGTF.  “I feel like it is an honor to be asked to train and help strengthen our partnership with the host nation.”