Afghan, Coalition Troops Help Oruzgan Province Villagers

American Forces Press Service

March 13, 2008 - Afghan security forces provided medical and humanitarian aid March 7 to Tangay Pass villagers in Afghanistan's Oruzgan province. With help from coalition forces, the Afghan troops also assessed dried-up wells and a clinic for feasibility as future projects.

The combined force began by visiting the Yaklengah clinic and meeting the clinic's director Abdul Rahman. During a previous visit, the director requested medical supplies and comfort items to enhance treatment at the clinic. The Afghan government followed through, bringing blankets, pillows and medical supplies. The clinic's staff was overjoyed with the generous amount of goods, Rahman said. "Thank you for keeping your word," he told the troops.

After unloading the supplies, the troops noticed that the foundation and walls needed some repairs and that the generator needed fuel, and they promised to bring these needs to the Afghan government's attention.

Following the clinic visit, the troops travelled to Tangay to provide medical assistance and conduct a community meeting. About 60 villagers, including 10 women and 15 young girls, were treated, mostly for general muscle pain, ear infections, cold symptoms or skin infections. The villagers also received baby formula, toothpaste and tooth brushes, bowls, personal hygiene items, radios, backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils and children's clothing. Meanwhile, Afghan security forces leaders met with village elders to discuss future projects.

"The government helped many people today to obtain constant medical care, reached out to remote villages to help the sick, and assessed different developmental projects to bring future prosperity," Army Capt. Vanessa R. Bowman, a coalition spokeswoman, said.

(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)