07/11/2025

Abdul “Saleem” Faieq: Strengthening the U.S. Army’s Advisory Mission

Saleem Faieq serves as Summit’s Senior Cultural Training Support Specialist on the Security Force Assistance Training Support Services (SFATSS) contract at Fort Benning, Georgia. He brings a unique and invaluable perspective to the U.S. Army Military Advisor Training Academy (MATA) and its Combat Advisor Training Course (CATC) mission.

Before joining Team Summit, Saleem spent over a decade serving as an interpreter in Northern Afghanistan, operating at the highest levels of military leadership during the Global War on Terrorism. His work placed him alongside senior field grade and general officers, where he supported critical multinational efforts in austere and complex environments.

Since joining the SFATSS contract in August 2018, Saleem has played a vital role in preparing U.S. Army advisors for real-world missions. Through his dynamic role-playing and cultural expertise, he has supported more than 90 training iterations and contributed to the development of over 5,200 military advisors. His ability to authentically portray senior foreign military officials provides trainees with realistic and mission-relevant experiences that enhance readiness and cross-cultural competence.

As the Security Force Assistance mission continues to adapt to evolving global threats and operational requirements, Saleem remains an essential contributor to the Department of Defense’s broader Foreign Internal Defense strategy. His dedication, operational insight, and cultural fluency continue to add immense value to the training pipeline.

Saleem currently resides in Georgia with his wife and their three children. Summit is proud to have Saleem on the team and grateful for his ongoing contributions to national security and international partnership building.