16 October 2008

"Windtalkers" Return?

OK - not exactly, because the Windtalkers were a linguist-based encryption program, but native linguists are back in the Army structure:
The Army will activate its first company of native linguists-turned-soldiers next week to act as interpreters and translators, representing a new phase in the service's reinvigorated approach to foreign language.
This unit of 'heritage speakers' -- known as the 51st Translator and Interpreter Company -- comprises members of the service's most recently added military occupational specialty, 09L, referred to as “09 Limas.” In addition to holding the Army's newest job, this cadre of native linguists trained at Fort Irwin, Calif., also reflects a change in Army recruiting strategy.


By: Brant

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