U.S. Embassy Congratulates LAF Participants in U.S. Training

September 19, 2008

On September 18, Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) Bill Grant and other U.S. Embassy officials congratulated Lebanese Armed Forces personnel who have completed advanced U.S. training in military specialties such as special operations, infantry, artillery and communications over the past three years.  DCM Grant conveyed Ambassador Michele J. Sison’s congratulations to all of the LAF officers and soldiers who had participated in the U.S.’s International Military Education and Training program (IMET), as well as other training programs. 

Since 2005, more than 500 members of the LAF have benefited from U.S. IMET programs.  Most have received U.S. training in their military specialties, including special forces, infantry, armor, artillery, supply and communication.   In addition, senior LAF officers have attended leadership training at joint military operation staff colleges and military strategic seminars with officers from the United States and other countries. Through the IMET program, LAF officers and enlisted personnel interact with  soldiers from throughout the world who attend these courses. 

The overall goal of U.S. military assistance to Lebanon is to strengthen the LAF and increase its capacity to defend Lebanon’s borders.  Since 2006, the United States has allocated over $410 million to the LAF.  The United States is committed to building the capabilities of the LAF and it will continue to support the government of Lebanon and the LAF as they continue their efforts to safeguard the peace, unity and sovereignty of Lebanon.