Yeah, this can be a pita.
Imo, head to the right (go past the VIP and out the otherside) and get behind a long concrete wall.
Be very very careful and remember you don't have to kill all of them, let the other soldiers take shots. Don't take any risks and watch out for flankers which you'll be able to hit by turning 90 degrees left.
Once the Apache comes, duck down low and use it to mop up the remaining soldiers.
Good luck.