A GROUP of territorial army infantrymen muster at Okehampton Camp today (Thursday) before they face the reality of six months peace-keeping duty in Iraq next month.

Following several months of arduous training on Dartmoor, Bodmin Moor and Salisbury Plain, the infrantrymen of the the Rifle Volunteers will undertake pre-deployment procedures before an invited audience of employers at the camp.

Known as Salamanca Company and compulsorily called up, they will fly to Iraq in mid-April and will be attached to a battle group of 1st Battalion the Cheshire Regiment.

Under the command of Major Toby Evans, theirs is part of a following reinforcement to Operation Telic by TA soldiers.

Lieutenant Colonel Ian Blewett, the Rifle Volunteers, said: ?Iraq means a peace support operation and our soldiers are under no illusions that a wide variety of threats face them.

?Essentially, they are there to bring peace and normality back to the everyday lives or Iraqi citizens.

?Clearly, the operation has its dangers, but our men are properly trained to deal with them. I know they will rise to the challenge.?

Lt Col Blewett said the dedication and self-discipline displayed by South West TA soldiers reflected ?tremendous credit? on their communities.

Captain John Penhale, adjutant of the Rifle Volunteers, said: ?This unit is enormously grateful to employers who have done their utmost to release called-up TA soldiers.

?We will continue to work alongside businesses and companies to keep them informed of the progress of these most valued men.?