1.
GV/SV Lebanese troops running in formation (2 shots)
0.19

2.
SV PAN PULL BACK TO GV Lebanese officer watches as troops run on spot and are brought to halt
0.32

3.
GV PAN/SV Lebanese contingent practise drill as US Marines look on (2 shots)
0.52

4.
CU/PULL BACK TO GV/GV Marine Drill Commander instructs as Marines take on guard position (2 shots)
1.10

5.
SV/GV Lebanese interpreter explains moves to Lebanese troops through loud hailer, as they look on (2 shots)
1.24

6.
SVs/GV Marines demonstrate shuffling forward from on-guard position as Lebanese watch (3 shots)
1.42

7.
GV Marines practising drill in front of Lebanese troops
1.52




Initials JS/BB





Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: United States Marines in Lebanon have been helping the Lebanese army to train its new recruits. The Lebanese army wants to build up its numbers, and fighting efficiency, so it will ultimately be able to take over the role now played by the multi-national forces. A squad of 75 Lebanese soldiers were chosen to undertake a 21-day course. The course, ranging from arms training, through artillery instructions, to unarmed combat, would be punishing; the US Marine Corps prides itself on being the toughest collection of fighting men in US services. Marine officers say they have not drawn a special programme for the Lebanese; for years they have instructed local forces in many parts of the world. The instructors admit they have some language problems with some Lebanese soldiers who speak only Arabic, but they say the local men's high morale compensates for this. When the Lebanese complete the course, they will return to their own units as teachers. Lebanon's new president, Amin Gemayel, has given the rebuilding of his army top priority in the daunting task of rebuilding his country. He wants the multi-national forces -- at present consisting of troops from the United States, France and Italy -- to be increased, with troops from other countries being included.