Iraqi recruits rush to nation's defense / After only 2 weeks of basic training, they hit the streets


Marine Sgt. Bill Knipper conducts training in squad tactics with Iraqi commando recruits. Chronicle photo by John Koopman
 

Marines, sailors depart "in pursuit of freedom, justice"

GIDGET FUENTES
Staff Writer

SAN DIEGO ---- With crowds of teary-eyed families watching the white-clad sailors and khaki-covered Marines who lined the outer decks, three Navy ships left their piers Saturday carrying nearly 4,300 local troops overseas to the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea regions.  more. . .