American Forces Press Service
Feb. 11, 2008 - Soldiers from the Afghan National Army's 201st Kandak, assisted by coalition forces, visited elders in the village of Tangay, in the Tarin Kowt district of Afghanistan's Oruzgan province Feb. 7. The soldiers conducted a security patrol through the Tiri Rud River Valley when they stopped to meet with the village elders and determine the needs of the village residents.
Even before the soldiers entered the village, children greeted them with smiles, waves and laughter as they approached. After a few minutes of chatting with the children, Afghan National Army soldiers met with the elders, who welcomed the group into their village.
The elders were eager to talk about security in the fertile valley area near the Tangay Pass in central Afghanistan. The elders said the area is fairly secure, thanks to frequent Afghan National Police patrols, but evidence points to insurgent activity in nearby mountains.
"The security in general is the priority," said a village elder. "Afghanistan has been at war for 30 years. All we want is peace."
Villagers also pointed out that while the Afghan government has directly aided Tangay residents with food and other supplies, more help is needed.
"Getting water is a particular challenge for this area, especially during the summer months," an elder said.
The elder explained that melting snow causes the nearby Tiri Rud to flood in the spring. Months of drought throughout the summer follow the floods. Elders said the flood and drought cycle wreaks havoc on their crops.
Security and economic development are important, not only to the elders, but also to all residents in the area. Tangay Pass is home to more than 200 families and also houses the Tangay Pass boys school, with more than 300 students. Increased Afghan police and army patrols have allowed the area to rebuild after years of war and civil strife.
"Increased security is making a difference in Oruzgan," said Army Capt. Vanessa R. Bowman, a coalition spokeswoman. "The government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan is committed to increasing security throughout the country and meeting the needs of its citizens. With ANA and ANP maintaining security, villagers feel safe and can live in relative peace."
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Showing posts with label afghan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label afghan. Show all posts
Monday, February 11, 2008
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Medical Supplies Delivery Helps Hundreds of Afghan Villagers
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2008 - With help from coalition troops, Afghan national security forces and the country's Public Health Ministry delivered much-needed medical supplies Jan. 2 to the Tarin Kowt Hospital in Oruzgan province. Afghan soldiers unloaded a trailer full of medical supplies, medicine, infant formula and personal hygiene items at the hospital.
Oruzgan Gov. Assadollah Hamdan thanked the hospital staff for its hard work providing medical care for citizens throughout the province. He also handed out notebooks, pencils, coloring books and crayons for the children, as well as radios for adults visiting the hospital.
Doctors and medics from coalition and Afghan security forces met with hospital director Dr. Agha Khan and offered to help with medical procedures or seeing patients, but the director explained that the hospital had everything well in hand.
"We were impressed with how attentive the Afghan health care staff was toward using aseptic techniques during patient care and the cleanliness of the hospital," a coalition medic said. "The Tarin Kowt Hospital is well staffed and well equipped to provide general health care to patients."
The hospital director expressed his thanks to the Afghan government and security forces for quickly responding to a request for more medical supplies, but said more is needed to better serve the Afghan people.
The hospital's deputy director escorted engineers from Afghan and coalition forces to assess infrastructure improvements the hospital needs. They assessed areas where they could assist and developed a plan for future support.
"This project clearly demonstrates that the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Afghan national security forces continue to bring development, medical care, and education to the Afghan citizens," a coalition forces soldier said. "They care for the citizens of Afghanistan."
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Jan. 7, 2008 - With help from coalition troops, Afghan national security forces and the country's Public Health Ministry delivered much-needed medical supplies Jan. 2 to the Tarin Kowt Hospital in Oruzgan province. Afghan soldiers unloaded a trailer full of medical supplies, medicine, infant formula and personal hygiene items at the hospital.
Oruzgan Gov. Assadollah Hamdan thanked the hospital staff for its hard work providing medical care for citizens throughout the province. He also handed out notebooks, pencils, coloring books and crayons for the children, as well as radios for adults visiting the hospital.
Doctors and medics from coalition and Afghan security forces met with hospital director Dr. Agha Khan and offered to help with medical procedures or seeing patients, but the director explained that the hospital had everything well in hand.
"We were impressed with how attentive the Afghan health care staff was toward using aseptic techniques during patient care and the cleanliness of the hospital," a coalition medic said. "The Tarin Kowt Hospital is well staffed and well equipped to provide general health care to patients."
The hospital director expressed his thanks to the Afghan government and security forces for quickly responding to a request for more medical supplies, but said more is needed to better serve the Afghan people.
The hospital's deputy director escorted engineers from Afghan and coalition forces to assess infrastructure improvements the hospital needs. They assessed areas where they could assist and developed a plan for future support.
"This project clearly demonstrates that the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Afghan national security forces continue to bring development, medical care, and education to the Afghan citizens," a coalition forces soldier said. "They care for the citizens of Afghanistan."
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Afghan Forces Deliver Supplies to Orphans in Kandahar
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 4, 2008 - Afghan national security forces and coalition forces delivered more than a ton of food, clothes and toys to the nearly 380 children of Shahid Ali Ahad Khan Karzi Orphanage and school in Afghanistan's Kandahar province, Dec. 30. The children, ranging in age from 6 to 13, received clothes and shoes to help them endure the harsh Afghan winter, as well as new toys, soccer balls and school supplies.
Afghan soldiers also provided rice, beans and cooking oil to the orphanage staff. The orphanage's principal said the supplies came at the right time, as the storage room was empty.
In addition to the toys, food and supplies, the children also received free medical care from Afghan security forces and coalition doctors and medics. With winter weather settling in, some of the children were treated for minor ailments, such as ear infections and other flu-like symptoms. The children also learned good hygiene habits to keep them healthy.
"This was an excellent opportunity to show the children that we are concerned for their well-being," an Afghan soldier can.
"I am very pleased with the help that you brought for the children," the orphanage principal said. "God bless your kindness."
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Jan. 4, 2008 - Afghan national security forces and coalition forces delivered more than a ton of food, clothes and toys to the nearly 380 children of Shahid Ali Ahad Khan Karzi Orphanage and school in Afghanistan's Kandahar province, Dec. 30. The children, ranging in age from 6 to 13, received clothes and shoes to help them endure the harsh Afghan winter, as well as new toys, soccer balls and school supplies.
Afghan soldiers also provided rice, beans and cooking oil to the orphanage staff. The orphanage's principal said the supplies came at the right time, as the storage room was empty.
In addition to the toys, food and supplies, the children also received free medical care from Afghan security forces and coalition doctors and medics. With winter weather settling in, some of the children were treated for minor ailments, such as ear infections and other flu-like symptoms. The children also learned good hygiene habits to keep them healthy.
"This was an excellent opportunity to show the children that we are concerned for their well-being," an Afghan soldier can.
"I am very pleased with the help that you brought for the children," the orphanage principal said. "God bless your kindness."
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Afghan Forces Free Village From Insurgent Control
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 2, 2008 - Afghan national security forces liberated the village of Yakhdan, in the Shahidi Hasas district of Afghanistan's Oruzgan province, from insurgent control Dec. 31, coalition military officials reported. The Shahidi Hasas district reportedly serves as a major corridor for transporting fighters and weapons between the provinces to the north and south of Oruzgan. Insurgents are suspected of using Yakhdan as a major command and control hub for illegal activities, officials said.
Afghan National Army soldiers led the multiday operation, along with Afghan National Police and coalition forces.
In other operations that day, coalition and Afghan forces killed several militants and found a weapons cache in raids targeting Taliban extremist operations in Helmand province.
Forces searched compounds in the Nahr Surkh district looking for militants associated with Taliban extremists and foreign-fighter facilitators. During the search, several militants were killed in an attack against coalition and Afghan forces. No exact number of militants killed was reported. Forces found a weapons cache with several AK-47 rifles, rocket-propelled grenades and explosives.
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Jan. 2, 2008 - Afghan national security forces liberated the village of Yakhdan, in the Shahidi Hasas district of Afghanistan's Oruzgan province, from insurgent control Dec. 31, coalition military officials reported. The Shahidi Hasas district reportedly serves as a major corridor for transporting fighters and weapons between the provinces to the north and south of Oruzgan. Insurgents are suspected of using Yakhdan as a major command and control hub for illegal activities, officials said.
Afghan National Army soldiers led the multiday operation, along with Afghan National Police and coalition forces.
In other operations that day, coalition and Afghan forces killed several militants and found a weapons cache in raids targeting Taliban extremist operations in Helmand province.
Forces searched compounds in the Nahr Surkh district looking for militants associated with Taliban extremists and foreign-fighter facilitators. During the search, several militants were killed in an attack against coalition and Afghan forces. No exact number of militants killed was reported. Forces found a weapons cache with several AK-47 rifles, rocket-propelled grenades and explosives.
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Afghan, U.S. Troops Deliver Aid to Villagers
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 26, 2007 - Afghan national security forces, assisted by coalition forces, delivered tons of humanitarian assistance to hundreds of villagers in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province. The Afghan forces, including members of the Afghan National Police, delivered more than two tons of blankets, toys, soccer balls, flour, rice, prayer rugs, storage bags and other items Dec. 16 and 17 to more than 350 adults and 650 children who showed up to receive the goods.
The children, some covered with colorful scarves, smiled and thanked the police, who provided toys, stuffed animals, crayons and coloring books.
The provincial subgovernor responsible for the districts asked for help after hearing from area chiefs and village elders. The humanitarian aid also served as a way to reward villagers who have ensured the relative safety of the districts by making the area inhospitable to insurgents.
"The villagers were very happy to receive the much-needed items. The goods will help villagers endure the onset of freezing winter temperatures. The people of Sra Kala and Shbal recognize that the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan truly cares for the general welfare of the population," a coalition forces soldier said.
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Dec. 26, 2007 - Afghan national security forces, assisted by coalition forces, delivered tons of humanitarian assistance to hundreds of villagers in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province. The Afghan forces, including members of the Afghan National Police, delivered more than two tons of blankets, toys, soccer balls, flour, rice, prayer rugs, storage bags and other items Dec. 16 and 17 to more than 350 adults and 650 children who showed up to receive the goods.
The children, some covered with colorful scarves, smiled and thanked the police, who provided toys, stuffed animals, crayons and coloring books.
The provincial subgovernor responsible for the districts asked for help after hearing from area chiefs and village elders. The humanitarian aid also served as a way to reward villagers who have ensured the relative safety of the districts by making the area inhospitable to insurgents.
"The villagers were very happy to receive the much-needed items. The goods will help villagers endure the onset of freezing winter temperatures. The people of Sra Kala and Shbal recognize that the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan truly cares for the general welfare of the population," a coalition forces soldier said.
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Friday, December 21, 2007
Afghan, Coalition Forces Help Brighten Residents' Lives
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces brightened the lives of Afghan adults and children alike with a wave of humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan this week. Villagers from Familia village, in the Shindad district of Herat province, enjoyed the security of well-lit homes and streets after Afghan national security forces and coalition forces repaired the village's generator Dec. 18, just in time for Eid al-Adha celebrations.
"We brought a mechanic to fix the generator. The village had no electricity for more than a month," an Afghan soldier said. "The children smiled as the lights came on."
But the lights do more than just brighten the faces of Afghan children. The well-lit streets also provide security for village residents.
Electricity was not the only Eid gift villagers received. During previous visits to the area, the combined forces met with village elders to determine residents' other needs. In addition to repairing the village generator, troops brought five bundles of humanitarian aid materials at the elders' request, including blankets, clothes and gloves.
Dozens of children swarmed village elders, the district subgovernor, and Afghan and coalition forces as they handed out the winter items. Prior to Eid celebrations and the onset of bitter winter weather, the supplies were a much-welcomed gift.
"The people are happy with the security we provide the area," an Afghan National Army soldier said. "The schools and mosque in the village enjoy a large attendance due to the presence of the (Afghan National Army)."
Villages in the area have been the site of recent insurgent activity, underscoring the need to maintain stability in an area where suspected Taliban insurgents recently set off two bombs in a school, causing heavy damage.
"The (Afghan national security force) is committed to providing security in the region," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan will continue to increase the quality of life for villagers all around Afghanistan."
Days earlier, Afghan national security forces, assisted by coalition forces, delivered tons of much-needed humanitarian assistance to hundreds of villagers in Sra Kala, in the Achin district, and Shabl, in the Deh Bala district of Nangarhar province Dec. 16 and 17.
Afghan national security forces, including Afghan National Police members, delivered more than two tons of blankets, toys, soccer balls, flour, rice, prayer rugs, storage bags and other items to the more than 350 adults and 650 children who showed up to receive the goods.
The children, some covered with colorful scarves, smiled and thanked the Afghan National Police members who provided toys, stuffed animals, crayons and coloring books.
The provincial subgovernor, responsible for the districts, specifically requested assistance from the Afghan National Police at the request of area chiefs and village elders. Distributing supplies among local citizens was a way to reward villagers who have helped combined forces create safe environments in the districts by making the area inhospitable to insurgents.
"The villagers were very happy to receive the much-needed items. The goods will help villagers endure the onset of freezing winter temperatures," a coalition soldier said. "The people of Sra Kala and Shabl recognize that the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan truly cares for the general welfare of the population.
"Afghan national security forces and the Afghan National Police are trying to improve their quality of life," the soldier added.
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Dec. 21, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces brightened the lives of Afghan adults and children alike with a wave of humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan this week. Villagers from Familia village, in the Shindad district of Herat province, enjoyed the security of well-lit homes and streets after Afghan national security forces and coalition forces repaired the village's generator Dec. 18, just in time for Eid al-Adha celebrations.
"We brought a mechanic to fix the generator. The village had no electricity for more than a month," an Afghan soldier said. "The children smiled as the lights came on."
But the lights do more than just brighten the faces of Afghan children. The well-lit streets also provide security for village residents.
Electricity was not the only Eid gift villagers received. During previous visits to the area, the combined forces met with village elders to determine residents' other needs. In addition to repairing the village generator, troops brought five bundles of humanitarian aid materials at the elders' request, including blankets, clothes and gloves.
Dozens of children swarmed village elders, the district subgovernor, and Afghan and coalition forces as they handed out the winter items. Prior to Eid celebrations and the onset of bitter winter weather, the supplies were a much-welcomed gift.
"The people are happy with the security we provide the area," an Afghan National Army soldier said. "The schools and mosque in the village enjoy a large attendance due to the presence of the (Afghan National Army)."
Villages in the area have been the site of recent insurgent activity, underscoring the need to maintain stability in an area where suspected Taliban insurgents recently set off two bombs in a school, causing heavy damage.
"The (Afghan national security force) is committed to providing security in the region," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan will continue to increase the quality of life for villagers all around Afghanistan."
Days earlier, Afghan national security forces, assisted by coalition forces, delivered tons of much-needed humanitarian assistance to hundreds of villagers in Sra Kala, in the Achin district, and Shabl, in the Deh Bala district of Nangarhar province Dec. 16 and 17.
Afghan national security forces, including Afghan National Police members, delivered more than two tons of blankets, toys, soccer balls, flour, rice, prayer rugs, storage bags and other items to the more than 350 adults and 650 children who showed up to receive the goods.
The children, some covered with colorful scarves, smiled and thanked the Afghan National Police members who provided toys, stuffed animals, crayons and coloring books.
The provincial subgovernor, responsible for the districts, specifically requested assistance from the Afghan National Police at the request of area chiefs and village elders. Distributing supplies among local citizens was a way to reward villagers who have helped combined forces create safe environments in the districts by making the area inhospitable to insurgents.
"The villagers were very happy to receive the much-needed items. The goods will help villagers endure the onset of freezing winter temperatures," a coalition soldier said. "The people of Sra Kala and Shabl recognize that the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan truly cares for the general welfare of the population.
"Afghan national security forces and the Afghan National Police are trying to improve their quality of life," the soldier added.
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Mullen Says Evaluating Afghan Strategy Makes Sense
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Constantly evaluating U.S. strategy in Afghanistan makes sense given the unpredictability of the area and the enemy, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here today. The U.S. military constantly examines its plans and strategies, Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen said in an interview. The admiral explained that the United States will lead and participate in preparing a new concept paper for NATO in Afghanistan that will be presented during the NATO summit in Bucharest, Romania, in April. The strategy review also will help mold that paper, he said.
"What I found in these countries is that it is important to constantly evaluate where you are," Mullen said. "They are so complex, and the dynamics are unpredictable and changing constantly. There are actually a wide variety of nations in and out of NATO; all think we should be considering what our strategy in Afghanistan should be."
Mullen broke off from a USO holiday tour to meet with U.S. and NATO leaders in Kabul, Afghanistan, yesterday and today. He also visited a Canadian forward operating base outside Kandahar today. While much more work needs to be done, he said, he is optimistic about the future of the country. "I was here in October, and I left more optimistic than I expected to, and I think the same is true this time," the admiral said.
"There are clearly huge challenges in Afghanistan, but going out into the (forward operating base) to see the Afghan army work, the message comes through loud and clear that the training and mentoring (of the Afghan security forces) is as vital as any part of the mission we have," he said.
Mullen met with U.S. Army Gen. Dan K. McNeill, the commander of NATO's International Security Assistance Force; Army Maj. Gen. David Rodriguez, the commander of Regional Command East; and British Army Maj. Gen. Jacko Page, the commander of Regional Command South. He said the commanders are reasonably positive about what's going on in the country. "They have made some progress; they know they could use more resources," Mullen said, but they did not ask for any specific units or items.
Page briefed Mullen on the fight in Musa Qaleh that moved the Taliban out of the area. Page told the admiral that he was impressed with the performance of the Afghan army in that battle.
"Still, we have a long way to go, we all know that," Mullen said. "And it's going to be a long, difficult challenge that has got to cover not only the security side, it's got to cover the economic side, the governance side, the political side, the diplomatic side. All those have to work together."
Mullen said one missing piece to bring all aspects of all governments together is a civilian "super envoy" to Afghanistan. "It's a recommendation that is going to be made to the United Nations secretary-general, and I'm hopeful that the secretary-general will appoint that person," Mullen said. "I think someone who has those skills and can bring all of the elements from all nations together would be a very powerful step forward for Afghanistan. This is a critical piece for the long-term health of Afghanistan."
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Constantly evaluating U.S. strategy in Afghanistan makes sense given the unpredictability of the area and the enemy, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here today. The U.S. military constantly examines its plans and strategies, Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen said in an interview. The admiral explained that the United States will lead and participate in preparing a new concept paper for NATO in Afghanistan that will be presented during the NATO summit in Bucharest, Romania, in April. The strategy review also will help mold that paper, he said.
"What I found in these countries is that it is important to constantly evaluate where you are," Mullen said. "They are so complex, and the dynamics are unpredictable and changing constantly. There are actually a wide variety of nations in and out of NATO; all think we should be considering what our strategy in Afghanistan should be."
Mullen broke off from a USO holiday tour to meet with U.S. and NATO leaders in Kabul, Afghanistan, yesterday and today. He also visited a Canadian forward operating base outside Kandahar today. While much more work needs to be done, he said, he is optimistic about the future of the country. "I was here in October, and I left more optimistic than I expected to, and I think the same is true this time," the admiral said.
"There are clearly huge challenges in Afghanistan, but going out into the (forward operating base) to see the Afghan army work, the message comes through loud and clear that the training and mentoring (of the Afghan security forces) is as vital as any part of the mission we have," he said.
Mullen met with U.S. Army Gen. Dan K. McNeill, the commander of NATO's International Security Assistance Force; Army Maj. Gen. David Rodriguez, the commander of Regional Command East; and British Army Maj. Gen. Jacko Page, the commander of Regional Command South. He said the commanders are reasonably positive about what's going on in the country. "They have made some progress; they know they could use more resources," Mullen said, but they did not ask for any specific units or items.
Page briefed Mullen on the fight in Musa Qaleh that moved the Taliban out of the area. Page told the admiral that he was impressed with the performance of the Afghan army in that battle.
"Still, we have a long way to go, we all know that," Mullen said. "And it's going to be a long, difficult challenge that has got to cover not only the security side, it's got to cover the economic side, the governance side, the political side, the diplomatic side. All those have to work together."
Mullen said one missing piece to bring all aspects of all governments together is a civilian "super envoy" to Afghanistan. "It's a recommendation that is going to be made to the United Nations secretary-general, and I'm hopeful that the secretary-general will appoint that person," Mullen said. "I think someone who has those skills and can bring all of the elements from all nations together would be a very powerful step forward for Afghanistan. This is a critical piece for the long-term health of Afghanistan."
Kandahar Base Shows Inequities Between Afghan Army, Police
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - A look at the forward operating base here tells you all you need to know about security in Kandahar province: Coalition and Afghan soldiers are well-equipped to handle operations, but the Afghan police need more help. Canadians are the main tenants of the base as part of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force. Their area of the base is well-kept, and Canadian and Afghan soldiers mingle easily in newly built barracks and other recently renovated structures. The Canadians have state-of-the-art communications facilities and everything they need to provide security to a troubled area.
Next to the Canadian section is the compound of the Afghan National Army. Again, this portion is well-kept. Roads are gravel; Afghan up-armored Humvees are parked in a line as soldiers get briefed before going on patrol. There is glass in the windows, phone lines connecting the buildings, and electricity.
Move to the Afghan police station just outside, and it's a different picture. It is a bare concrete building with no phone lines. The electricity may or may not work. Instead of glass, someone fashioned metal frames in the empty windows and stuffed them full of dead weeds to cut the wind. There are no police at the station, only an old man watching two very well-behaved boys. There is a well-maintained Ford Ranger pickup truck parked outside. It has six rocket-propelled grenade launchers sticking up from the truck bed like toothpicks and a machine gun mounted above the cab.
"We know we have a lot of work to do on training the Afghan security forces here," said Army Col. Thomas J. McGrath, commander of Afghan Regional Security Integration Command South. "Police and military training is key to long-term success in the region."
McGrath gave Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen a tour of the facilities at Camp Wilson, today. He and members of his command briefed Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on plans to train and mentor Afghan security forces.
The Afghan army is doing well, McGrath said. He said the force fights well, but has communications, intelligence and logistical shortages. All are being overcome, and many nations have committed troops to training and mentoring the Afghan units.
The police, however, have problems with corruption, recruiting, professionalism and training, he said. McGrath said his command is committed to working to rebuild the force. The strategy is to take the police out of an area and give them eight weeks of intensive training. A national police unit would take over the district for the duration of the training.
While the police unit is gone for training, coalition officials would upgrade or build infrastructure. The units would be outfitted with equipment, vehicles and materials they need to operate, and then they would return to their districts.
There would be more training for senior officers and middle ranking police, as well.
"We would also provide the units with mentors and ongoing training once they return to the district," McGrath said.
A police mentoring team would embed with the police in the districts. A combination of military and civilian police, the team would continue training, but also be in a position to monitor the behavior of the police.
Afghan army units and coalition forces would be nearby in an overwatch capacity and could help the Afghan police with operational planning and intelligence integration, the colonel said.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - A look at the forward operating base here tells you all you need to know about security in Kandahar province: Coalition and Afghan soldiers are well-equipped to handle operations, but the Afghan police need more help. Canadians are the main tenants of the base as part of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force. Their area of the base is well-kept, and Canadian and Afghan soldiers mingle easily in newly built barracks and other recently renovated structures. The Canadians have state-of-the-art communications facilities and everything they need to provide security to a troubled area.
Next to the Canadian section is the compound of the Afghan National Army. Again, this portion is well-kept. Roads are gravel; Afghan up-armored Humvees are parked in a line as soldiers get briefed before going on patrol. There is glass in the windows, phone lines connecting the buildings, and electricity.
Move to the Afghan police station just outside, and it's a different picture. It is a bare concrete building with no phone lines. The electricity may or may not work. Instead of glass, someone fashioned metal frames in the empty windows and stuffed them full of dead weeds to cut the wind. There are no police at the station, only an old man watching two very well-behaved boys. There is a well-maintained Ford Ranger pickup truck parked outside. It has six rocket-propelled grenade launchers sticking up from the truck bed like toothpicks and a machine gun mounted above the cab.
"We know we have a lot of work to do on training the Afghan security forces here," said Army Col. Thomas J. McGrath, commander of Afghan Regional Security Integration Command South. "Police and military training is key to long-term success in the region."
McGrath gave Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen a tour of the facilities at Camp Wilson, today. He and members of his command briefed Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on plans to train and mentor Afghan security forces.
The Afghan army is doing well, McGrath said. He said the force fights well, but has communications, intelligence and logistical shortages. All are being overcome, and many nations have committed troops to training and mentoring the Afghan units.
The police, however, have problems with corruption, recruiting, professionalism and training, he said. McGrath said his command is committed to working to rebuild the force. The strategy is to take the police out of an area and give them eight weeks of intensive training. A national police unit would take over the district for the duration of the training.
While the police unit is gone for training, coalition officials would upgrade or build infrastructure. The units would be outfitted with equipment, vehicles and materials they need to operate, and then they would return to their districts.
There would be more training for senior officers and middle ranking police, as well.
"We would also provide the units with mentors and ongoing training once they return to the district," McGrath said.
A police mentoring team would embed with the police in the districts. A combination of military and civilian police, the team would continue training, but also be in a position to monitor the behavior of the police.
Afghan army units and coalition forces would be nearby in an overwatch capacity and could help the Afghan police with operational planning and intelligence integration, the colonel said.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Afghan, Coalition Forces Deliver Toys in 'Operation Bernice'
By Staff Sgt. Erin Tallman, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 20, 2007 - in Angurdarrah and Gadaykhel on Dec. 18 in an operation named for an Army major's childhood toy. Army Maj. Jeremy McGuire, team leader of the Kohe Safi Police Mentor Team, recalled a stuffed animal that his aunt, Marcy Grace Kelley, gave him when he was 5. He named the toy Bernice.
So when Aunt Marcy donated 200 stuffed animals to hand out to Afghan children, McGuire named the mission to deliver the toys to two remote villages "Operation Bernice."
"Operation Bernice, to me, shows how the coalition forces, the (Afghan National Police), government leaders of Kohe Safi, and people in the United States can work together ... to help the people of Afghanistan, and demonstrate how the government is available to answer the people's grievances," McGuire said.
McGuire and his team will make multiple visits with the people of Kohe Safi throughout the rest of December.
After New Year's Day, Bagram Provincial Reconstruction Team members will conduct a four-day medical engagement to northern Kohe Safi villages they visited during Operation Bernice.
The drop went well, and the presence of girls was a great sign, McGuire said. "Typically, in this area we have had a low female turnout for medical engagements. Operation Bernice gave us an insight that they may be very receptive to the medical engagement the Afghan government and doctors will be executing in January."
(Air Force Staff Sgt. Erin Tallman is assigned to Combined Joint Task Force 82 Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 20, 2007 - in Angurdarrah and Gadaykhel on Dec. 18 in an operation named for an Army major's childhood toy. Army Maj. Jeremy McGuire, team leader of the Kohe Safi Police Mentor Team, recalled a stuffed animal that his aunt, Marcy Grace Kelley, gave him when he was 5. He named the toy Bernice.
So when Aunt Marcy donated 200 stuffed animals to hand out to Afghan children, McGuire named the mission to deliver the toys to two remote villages "Operation Bernice."
"Operation Bernice, to me, shows how the coalition forces, the (Afghan National Police), government leaders of Kohe Safi, and people in the United States can work together ... to help the people of Afghanistan, and demonstrate how the government is available to answer the people's grievances," McGuire said.
McGuire and his team will make multiple visits with the people of Kohe Safi throughout the rest of December.
After New Year's Day, Bagram Provincial Reconstruction Team members will conduct a four-day medical engagement to northern Kohe Safi villages they visited during Operation Bernice.
The drop went well, and the presence of girls was a great sign, McGuire said. "Typically, in this area we have had a low female turnout for medical engagements. Operation Bernice gave us an insight that they may be very receptive to the medical engagement the Afghan government and doctors will be executing in January."
(Air Force Staff Sgt. Erin Tallman is assigned to Combined Joint Task Force 82 Public Affairs.)
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Afghan Border Police Set Up Traffic Control Point
By Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr., USMC
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 13, 2007 - Coalition mentors recently guided the Afghan Border Police here to make notable improvements at a border control point. There were no written plans, just some shared ideas. However, the mentors helped the border police create an effective traffic control point in less than two days. The creative process involved makeshift walls, impromptu help from a local tractor owner, and some old-fashioned elbow grease.
Their assigned mission from team leader Army Capt. John T. Boyd, of Cranford, N.J., was to supervise (traffic control point) improvements.
"We're all going to do that," Boyd said. "If we can get this route down, then we know we can go out and check the other five routes."
He explained that the border police and mentors need to be available to randomly check vehicles that cross the border through other routes, such as wadis or valleys without roads. Boyd said it is important to have the main route secure first.
After arriving at the border control point, Boyd and his team met with the Afghan company executive officer, 1st Lt. Saleh Khan, and the acting noncommissioned officer, Mohammad Ayoub Khan, to discuss and agree on goals for the weekend.
Army Master Sgt. Jeffrey P. Lowe, a mentor and the senior enlisted soldier with the team, reminded his team that, as mentors, they need to teach the leaders to lead. "We have to try to make them get their soldiers to do (the work)," Lowe said.
After lunch, most of the team joined the available border police on the road. There was already a point on the road marked by physical security barriers; however, the team leader recognized a need for improvements. Boyd said the check point needed to be better prepared to handle traffic and told his team the signs needed to be out further, warning traffic to be prepared to stop. He also said there needed to be an area where vehicles could be directed for searches to keep from holding up traffic as it approached. This would create a traffic control point that really keeps the border police in control of the crossing, he said.
With the executive officer and NCO in agreement, Boyd disbursed his team to work with the Afghans to accomplish the tasks at hand. Boyd and his men worked side by side with 10 Afghan Border Police, shoveling dirt, erecting barriers, and mentoring the men responsible for checking vehicles.
The border police were getting a better understanding of thorough vehicle checks. As a team, they and their mentors created an effective traffic control point. The mentor leaders continuously conveyed to the Afghan leaders the significance of them motivating their men to work hard.
At one point, the NCO stopped a tractor crossing the border road and hired his help in levelling the ground and moving dirt. With his assistance and the men's efforts the next morning, the traffic control point was completely remodeled before noon the next day.
Though the mentors did at times admit to dealing with frustrations, they were pleased at the results. "It's only been 10 months of them being in a unit here at (this border control point)," Lowe said, reminding his team they needed to show some patience.
(Marine Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr. is assigned to Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 13, 2007 - Coalition mentors recently guided the Afghan Border Police here to make notable improvements at a border control point. There were no written plans, just some shared ideas. However, the mentors helped the border police create an effective traffic control point in less than two days. The creative process involved makeshift walls, impromptu help from a local tractor owner, and some old-fashioned elbow grease.
Their assigned mission from team leader Army Capt. John T. Boyd, of Cranford, N.J., was to supervise (traffic control point) improvements.
"We're all going to do that," Boyd said. "If we can get this route down, then we know we can go out and check the other five routes."
He explained that the border police and mentors need to be available to randomly check vehicles that cross the border through other routes, such as wadis or valleys without roads. Boyd said it is important to have the main route secure first.
After arriving at the border control point, Boyd and his team met with the Afghan company executive officer, 1st Lt. Saleh Khan, and the acting noncommissioned officer, Mohammad Ayoub Khan, to discuss and agree on goals for the weekend.
Army Master Sgt. Jeffrey P. Lowe, a mentor and the senior enlisted soldier with the team, reminded his team that, as mentors, they need to teach the leaders to lead. "We have to try to make them get their soldiers to do (the work)," Lowe said.
After lunch, most of the team joined the available border police on the road. There was already a point on the road marked by physical security barriers; however, the team leader recognized a need for improvements. Boyd said the check point needed to be better prepared to handle traffic and told his team the signs needed to be out further, warning traffic to be prepared to stop. He also said there needed to be an area where vehicles could be directed for searches to keep from holding up traffic as it approached. This would create a traffic control point that really keeps the border police in control of the crossing, he said.
With the executive officer and NCO in agreement, Boyd disbursed his team to work with the Afghans to accomplish the tasks at hand. Boyd and his men worked side by side with 10 Afghan Border Police, shoveling dirt, erecting barriers, and mentoring the men responsible for checking vehicles.
The border police were getting a better understanding of thorough vehicle checks. As a team, they and their mentors created an effective traffic control point. The mentor leaders continuously conveyed to the Afghan leaders the significance of them motivating their men to work hard.
At one point, the NCO stopped a tractor crossing the border road and hired his help in levelling the ground and moving dirt. With his assistance and the men's efforts the next morning, the traffic control point was completely remodeled before noon the next day.
Though the mentors did at times admit to dealing with frustrations, they were pleased at the results. "It's only been 10 months of them being in a unit here at (this border control point)," Lowe said, reminding his team they needed to show some patience.
(Marine Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr. is assigned to Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan Public Affairs.)
Friday, December 14, 2007
Afghan Forces Provide Medical Treatment to More Than 700 Villagers
By BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces treated more than 700 Afghans during a Dec. 7-8 medical outreach operation in Kandahar province. The Afghan forces conducted a village medical outreach in Arghandab, treating hundreds of men, women and children.
"The (medical mission) ... was an overwhelming success," an Afghan National Army soldier said. "We are trying to limit the Afghans' suffering."
While many boys and girls showed up for medical care, organizers were surprised to see many women seeking help as well. Historically, few women have attended medical outreaches in this area.
"Unlike previous (such missions) in Shah Wali Kot, the ratio of women to men treated was 1-to-1, which afforded the team the opportunity to better assess the situation in Arghandab from a woman's point of view," a coalition soldier explained.
Afghan soldiers, the Afghan National Police chief and the district chief handed out more than 2 tons of humanitarian supplies, including rice, beans, flour, cooking oil, salt, chai, shoes and winter clothing.
Afghan citizens expressed their delight while being treated by an Afghan National Army medic. "I cannot begin to tell you how happy I am that I received free medication and food," a village elder said. "I am poor, so I cannot buy these things in the bazaar. Most people in Kandahar are just like me."
While serving the needs of Afghan civilians, the country's security forces always have an eye toward security because of insurgent activity in the area. "We mitigate this by working hand in hand with the (Afghan army and police) to ensure every possible security measure is implemented," a coalition soldier said.
The Afghan commander on the mission spoke of how much it meant to him to help the Afghan villagers.
"Even though there is a local clinic, it doesn't always have enough medicine available," he said. "I'm very pleased to provide this type of service to the locals, because most people in this area have never received this level of treatment."
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces treated more than 700 Afghans during a Dec. 7-8 medical outreach operation in Kandahar province. The Afghan forces conducted a village medical outreach in Arghandab, treating hundreds of men, women and children.
"The (medical mission) ... was an overwhelming success," an Afghan National Army soldier said. "We are trying to limit the Afghans' suffering."
While many boys and girls showed up for medical care, organizers were surprised to see many women seeking help as well. Historically, few women have attended medical outreaches in this area.
"Unlike previous (such missions) in Shah Wali Kot, the ratio of women to men treated was 1-to-1, which afforded the team the opportunity to better assess the situation in Arghandab from a woman's point of view," a coalition soldier explained.
Afghan soldiers, the Afghan National Police chief and the district chief handed out more than 2 tons of humanitarian supplies, including rice, beans, flour, cooking oil, salt, chai, shoes and winter clothing.
Afghan citizens expressed their delight while being treated by an Afghan National Army medic. "I cannot begin to tell you how happy I am that I received free medication and food," a village elder said. "I am poor, so I cannot buy these things in the bazaar. Most people in Kandahar are just like me."
While serving the needs of Afghan civilians, the country's security forces always have an eye toward security because of insurgent activity in the area. "We mitigate this by working hand in hand with the (Afghan army and police) to ensure every possible security measure is implemented," a coalition soldier said.
The Afghan commander on the mission spoke of how much it meant to him to help the Afghan villagers.
"Even though there is a local clinic, it doesn't always have enough medicine available," he said. "I'm very pleased to provide this type of service to the locals, because most people in this area have never received this level of treatment."
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Coalition Forces Break Ground on Future Afghan Development
By Senior Airman James Bolinger, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 10, 2007 - Commanders of two coalition task forces met with Afghan government officials yesterday to discuss rebuilding infrastructure and developing health care in the country's Parwan province. Army Col. Jonathon Ives, Task Force Cincinnatus commander, and Army Col. Bart Iddins Task Force Med commander, first met with the sub-governor of Jabal Saraj about the local bazaar. Earlier this year, a flood wiped out a bridge and several shops at the Jabal Saraj Bazaar. The river basin is now nearly twice as wide as it was in the spring. Bagram Provincial Reconstruction Team engineers have devised a plan to shore up the banks of the river and save the remaining shops in the bazaar.
"Our discussion with (the sub-governor) was about getting labor to fill the gabion baskets with rocks," Ives said. "Essentially it is a manual-labor process. If he could do that, then they have some ownership over the project."
Ives wants to reinforce the river banks soon, while the water is low. "We just want to shore up that wall before the spring floods," he said.
After meeting with the sub-governor, Ives and Iddins stopped by Afghanistan's oldest hydro-electric plant, which was built around 1920. The generators for the plant were brought on wooden ships from Britain to India. They were then put on the backs of elephants and carried into Afghanistan. The plant once generated four megawatts, but now produces only half a megawatt, or 500 kilowatts. Ives said the plant's workers have kept it running decades longer than the equipment was designed to last. The colonel's plan is to replace the generators inside the plant.
"If we could use everything that they have here, the canal systems, the water systems and just replace the generators, then we could get six to seven megawatts out of this power plant," Ives said. "It is probably about a $12 million project and will probably take two to three years."
If the hydro plant is renovated, it would power not only Jabal Saraj, but also a local cement factory and industrial park.
The colonels also toured the Charikar Hospital, where Task Force Med is building the structure and capacity of the Afghan health care system. "The medical staff is very dedicated; they're hard-working and, in many areas, are well trained, but in other areas they could use some bolstering of their training," Ives said. "That is one of our missions; we want to help train them."
While the hospital currently treats trauma patients and has a very active surgery program, the facility could use some improvements. "Some of their equipment is adequate, and some of it is obsolete," Iddins said. "What we are attempting to do is get better equipment here and, more importantly, train them how to use and maintain it."
Iddins said he believes it will take more than two years to bring in modern equipment and train the staff on its use. The visits to the sub-governor's compound, power plant and hospital represent a future for Afghanistan. "We are building the infrastructure that allows the government to reach people and provide basic needs," Ives said.
(Air Force Senior Airman James Bolinger is assigned to Combined Joint Task Force 82 Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 10, 2007 - Commanders of two coalition task forces met with Afghan government officials yesterday to discuss rebuilding infrastructure and developing health care in the country's Parwan province. Army Col. Jonathon Ives, Task Force Cincinnatus commander, and Army Col. Bart Iddins Task Force Med commander, first met with the sub-governor of Jabal Saraj about the local bazaar. Earlier this year, a flood wiped out a bridge and several shops at the Jabal Saraj Bazaar. The river basin is now nearly twice as wide as it was in the spring. Bagram Provincial Reconstruction Team engineers have devised a plan to shore up the banks of the river and save the remaining shops in the bazaar.
"Our discussion with (the sub-governor) was about getting labor to fill the gabion baskets with rocks," Ives said. "Essentially it is a manual-labor process. If he could do that, then they have some ownership over the project."
Ives wants to reinforce the river banks soon, while the water is low. "We just want to shore up that wall before the spring floods," he said.
After meeting with the sub-governor, Ives and Iddins stopped by Afghanistan's oldest hydro-electric plant, which was built around 1920. The generators for the plant were brought on wooden ships from Britain to India. They were then put on the backs of elephants and carried into Afghanistan. The plant once generated four megawatts, but now produces only half a megawatt, or 500 kilowatts. Ives said the plant's workers have kept it running decades longer than the equipment was designed to last. The colonel's plan is to replace the generators inside the plant.
"If we could use everything that they have here, the canal systems, the water systems and just replace the generators, then we could get six to seven megawatts out of this power plant," Ives said. "It is probably about a $12 million project and will probably take two to three years."
If the hydro plant is renovated, it would power not only Jabal Saraj, but also a local cement factory and industrial park.
The colonels also toured the Charikar Hospital, where Task Force Med is building the structure and capacity of the Afghan health care system. "The medical staff is very dedicated; they're hard-working and, in many areas, are well trained, but in other areas they could use some bolstering of their training," Ives said. "That is one of our missions; we want to help train them."
While the hospital currently treats trauma patients and has a very active surgery program, the facility could use some improvements. "Some of their equipment is adequate, and some of it is obsolete," Iddins said. "What we are attempting to do is get better equipment here and, more importantly, train them how to use and maintain it."
Iddins said he believes it will take more than two years to bring in modern equipment and train the staff on its use. The visits to the sub-governor's compound, power plant and hospital represent a future for Afghanistan. "We are building the infrastructure that allows the government to reach people and provide basic needs," Ives said.
(Air Force Senior Airman James Bolinger is assigned to Combined Joint Task Force 82 Public Affairs.)
Monday, November 05, 2007
Combined Forces Work to Disrupt Militant Recruiting Operations
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 5, 2007 - An Afghan and coalition forces operation yesterday in Afghanistan's Ghazni province disrupted foreign fighter and Taliban recruiting networks. Six people were detained, one of whom was wounded, and two other militants were killed. Afghan and coalition forces conducted a search of several compounds in the Deh Yak district of Ghazni province, where intelligence reports indicated militant recruiting networks were operating.
During the search of several buildings on one of the compounds, Afghan and coalition forces detained three individuals suspected to be linked with militant recruiting facilitators.
While performing a search on another set of compounds in the district, the combined forces were fired upon from one of the buildings on the compound. Simultaneously, several suspected militants fled the compound area on foot. The combined forces returned fire, killing two militants and wounding one other. They also pursued and detained two individuals with possible ties to militant recruiting facilitators.
"Afghan and coalition forces made significant strides to disrupt militant operations aimed at recruiting young Afghan males into an extremist organization of false promises, suicide bombers and terrorism," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman.
The wounded militant was treated on site and transported to a medical facility for possible follow on medical care.
The detained individuals will be questioned as to their involvement foreign fighter and Taliban recruiting networks as well as extremist activities.
Afghan and Coalition forces also recovered several weapons that were removed to prevent further use.
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Nov. 5, 2007 - An Afghan and coalition forces operation yesterday in Afghanistan's Ghazni province disrupted foreign fighter and Taliban recruiting networks. Six people were detained, one of whom was wounded, and two other militants were killed. Afghan and coalition forces conducted a search of several compounds in the Deh Yak district of Ghazni province, where intelligence reports indicated militant recruiting networks were operating.
During the search of several buildings on one of the compounds, Afghan and coalition forces detained three individuals suspected to be linked with militant recruiting facilitators.
While performing a search on another set of compounds in the district, the combined forces were fired upon from one of the buildings on the compound. Simultaneously, several suspected militants fled the compound area on foot. The combined forces returned fire, killing two militants and wounding one other. They also pursued and detained two individuals with possible ties to militant recruiting facilitators.
"Afghan and coalition forces made significant strides to disrupt militant operations aimed at recruiting young Afghan males into an extremist organization of false promises, suicide bombers and terrorism," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman.
The wounded militant was treated on site and transported to a medical facility for possible follow on medical care.
The detained individuals will be questioned as to their involvement foreign fighter and Taliban recruiting networks as well as extremist activities.
Afghan and Coalition forces also recovered several weapons that were removed to prevent further use.
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Afghan National Army Defeats Taliban in Key Southern Province
By David Mays
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 2, 2007 - Afghan National Army soldiers assisted by coalition advisors have completely wiped out Taliban insurgents in a key southern province, a coalition commander said today. "My assessment of the threat in this province is that the insurgency has suffered a total defeat this summer due to the combined efforts of the ANA and coalition forces," Army Lt. Col. Karl Slaughenhaupt told online journalists and "bloggers" during a conference call from the tiny Afghan town of Qalat.
Slaughenhaupt is senior advisor to 2nd Brigade, 205th Corps, of the Afghan National Army. He and his coalition team members support ANA troops as they patrol vast, sparsely-populated Zabul province, through which runs the vital but extremely dangerous highway that links Afghanistan's capital, Kabul, with its major southern city, Kandahar.
"Anti-government elements initially began their spring offensive by conducting fairly spectacular platoon-size, complex attacks and ambushes along Highway 1 targeting Afghan and coalition security forces," the colonel said. "However, these attacks resulted in significant enemy losses."
In response to massive firepower and calculated combat of Afghan soldiers, the colonel explained, Taliban fighters resorted to planting IEDs, ambushing citizens on secondary roads, and planning attacks on coalition forward operating bases.
Second Brigade just wrapped up a week-long campaign during which one such planned attack on Forward Operating Base Baylough, in Deh Chopan district, a remote area in northern Zabul province, was decidedly foiled. "This operation was a complete success on a variety of levels," Slaughenhaupt said.
Afghan soldiers tracked nearly 100 Taliban fighters as they approached the coalition base, the colonel explained. They then pinned down the enemy in rugged terrain, blocking any chance of escape. U.S. commanders verified insurgents' position using an unmanned aerial vehicle then called in airstrikes by two F-15 fighter jets, Slaughenhaupt said. Meanwhile, U.S. and Romania ground forces, Afghan National Police officers, coalition special operations teams, as well as provincial reconstruction, civil affairs and medical teams, rushed in to assist, he said.
"This is a great example of full-spectrum, counterinsurgent operations, combining kinetic and non-kinetic operations to simultaneously defeat the insurgents while reaching out to the Afghan people," he said. "This is a decisive victory in what has been traditionally considered an insurgent safe haven."
This is the second such counterinsurgency mission conducted in the province in recent months, the colonel explained. And once again, he said, Afghan soldiers proved they have what it takes to get the job done. "The ANA on more than one occasion demonstrated incredible tenacity by rallying back after being ambushed and inflicting heavy losses on the enemy by fire and maneuver," he said. "Bottom line: that when the ANA gets in a fight, they win."
Ultimately, securing the country will depend upon gaining the support and trust of its citizens, Slaughenhaupt said, adding that Afghan troops understand that. As an example, he cited a recent search operation in an Afghan village that turned up no sign of insurgents or weapons. It was clearly safe and secure, the colonel explained. Even so, the Afghan commander insisted his troops remain in the village for a few hours just to get to know and befriend those who live there.
"The Afghan soldiers, from the brigade commander down to privates, seem to inherently understand the need to interact in a positive way with the locals," he said. "He understands the importance of winning hearts and minds, and soldiers seem to get it and just do it naturally."
(David Mays works for the New Media branch of American Forces Press Service.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 2, 2007 - Afghan National Army soldiers assisted by coalition advisors have completely wiped out Taliban insurgents in a key southern province, a coalition commander said today. "My assessment of the threat in this province is that the insurgency has suffered a total defeat this summer due to the combined efforts of the ANA and coalition forces," Army Lt. Col. Karl Slaughenhaupt told online journalists and "bloggers" during a conference call from the tiny Afghan town of Qalat.
Slaughenhaupt is senior advisor to 2nd Brigade, 205th Corps, of the Afghan National Army. He and his coalition team members support ANA troops as they patrol vast, sparsely-populated Zabul province, through which runs the vital but extremely dangerous highway that links Afghanistan's capital, Kabul, with its major southern city, Kandahar.
"Anti-government elements initially began their spring offensive by conducting fairly spectacular platoon-size, complex attacks and ambushes along Highway 1 targeting Afghan and coalition security forces," the colonel said. "However, these attacks resulted in significant enemy losses."
In response to massive firepower and calculated combat of Afghan soldiers, the colonel explained, Taliban fighters resorted to planting IEDs, ambushing citizens on secondary roads, and planning attacks on coalition forward operating bases.
Second Brigade just wrapped up a week-long campaign during which one such planned attack on Forward Operating Base Baylough, in Deh Chopan district, a remote area in northern Zabul province, was decidedly foiled. "This operation was a complete success on a variety of levels," Slaughenhaupt said.
Afghan soldiers tracked nearly 100 Taliban fighters as they approached the coalition base, the colonel explained. They then pinned down the enemy in rugged terrain, blocking any chance of escape. U.S. commanders verified insurgents' position using an unmanned aerial vehicle then called in airstrikes by two F-15 fighter jets, Slaughenhaupt said. Meanwhile, U.S. and Romania ground forces, Afghan National Police officers, coalition special operations teams, as well as provincial reconstruction, civil affairs and medical teams, rushed in to assist, he said.
"This is a great example of full-spectrum, counterinsurgent operations, combining kinetic and non-kinetic operations to simultaneously defeat the insurgents while reaching out to the Afghan people," he said. "This is a decisive victory in what has been traditionally considered an insurgent safe haven."
This is the second such counterinsurgency mission conducted in the province in recent months, the colonel explained. And once again, he said, Afghan soldiers proved they have what it takes to get the job done. "The ANA on more than one occasion demonstrated incredible tenacity by rallying back after being ambushed and inflicting heavy losses on the enemy by fire and maneuver," he said. "Bottom line: that when the ANA gets in a fight, they win."
Ultimately, securing the country will depend upon gaining the support and trust of its citizens, Slaughenhaupt said, adding that Afghan troops understand that. As an example, he cited a recent search operation in an Afghan village that turned up no sign of insurgents or weapons. It was clearly safe and secure, the colonel explained. Even so, the Afghan commander insisted his troops remain in the village for a few hours just to get to know and befriend those who live there.
"The Afghan soldiers, from the brigade commander down to privates, seem to inherently understand the need to interact in a positive way with the locals," he said. "He understands the importance of winning hearts and minds, and soldiers seem to get it and just do it naturally."
(David Mays works for the New Media branch of American Forces Press Service.)
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Combat Engineers Mentor, Help Afghan Soldiers With Construction Projects
By Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr., USMC
Special to American Forces Press Service
Oct. 29, 2007 - Four combat engineers recently traveled from Kabul to Gardez to share their construction experience with Afghans hired to build housing units for military personnel assigned to Forward Operating Base Lightning. The engineers are assigned to Task Force Phoenix Engineering Company. Their job included teaching methods that will help the Afghans become more efficient in the construction process. The combat engineers said they have traveled to several forward operating bases in Afghanistan over the last few months mentoring and assisting Afghans with construction projects.
"We're just helping," said Army Staff Sgt. Lonnie L. Russell, from Beaufort, S.C., "trying to get the (concrete) blocks up so they can move everyone in before the snow."
Russell said he and the other combat engineers have had an interesting experience with the Afghans. He has found that the Afghans' methods for constructing "isn't pretty" at times, but the end product is very similar to their own.
"We're trying to teach them how to do four layers (of concrete blocks) at a time instead of one," said Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Michael R. Jenks, who is assigned to Camp Phoenix and deployed from the 1st Civil Engineer Squadron at Langley Air Force Base, Va.
This system would make the block-laying process faster than their current method, he said.
(Marine Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr. is assigned to Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Oct. 29, 2007 - Four combat engineers recently traveled from Kabul to Gardez to share their construction experience with Afghans hired to build housing units for military personnel assigned to Forward Operating Base Lightning. The engineers are assigned to Task Force Phoenix Engineering Company. Their job included teaching methods that will help the Afghans become more efficient in the construction process. The combat engineers said they have traveled to several forward operating bases in Afghanistan over the last few months mentoring and assisting Afghans with construction projects.
"We're just helping," said Army Staff Sgt. Lonnie L. Russell, from Beaufort, S.C., "trying to get the (concrete) blocks up so they can move everyone in before the snow."
Russell said he and the other combat engineers have had an interesting experience with the Afghans. He has found that the Afghans' methods for constructing "isn't pretty" at times, but the end product is very similar to their own.
"We're trying to teach them how to do four layers (of concrete blocks) at a time instead of one," said Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Michael R. Jenks, who is assigned to Camp Phoenix and deployed from the 1st Civil Engineer Squadron at Langley Air Force Base, Va.
This system would make the block-laying process faster than their current method, he said.
(Marine Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr. is assigned to Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan Public Affairs.)
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Afghan, Coalition Forces Kill Scores of Taliban During Six-Hour Fight
American Forces Press Service
Oct. 28, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces engaged and killed more than six dozen Taliban fighters near the Musa Qaleh Wadi region of Afghanistan's Helmand province yesterday, officials reported. A combined Afghan-coalition forces patrol was conducting reconnaissance when Taliban fighters engaged them with rocket and small-arms fire. The combined patrol immediately returned fire, maneuvered, and employed close-air support, resulting about 80 Taliban fighters killed during a six-hour engagement. During the battle, the combined force exchanged small-arms fire with the fleeing attackers, quickly putting them on the defensive.
The insurgents attacked from a trench line using small arms, machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades. The Afghan and coalition forces fixed the enemy in their positions, and four separate precision-munitions engagements killed more than six dozen insurgents who were trying to reinforce enemy positions.
"Afghan national security and coalition forces remain devoted to uprooting Taliban insurgents in the Musa Qaleh Wadi region," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman.
In other operations yesterday, Afghan and coalition forces engaged insurgent fighters near Kandahar province's Shah Wali Kowt district.
The combined force was conducting a reconnaissance patrol when several insurgents engaged them with rocket and small-arms fire. The patrol immediately engaged the Taliban element, killing several enemy fighters before they fled the area.
"Today, the Afghan national security forces spotted the enemies of Afghanistan before they could carry out their attack," Belcher said. "The superior capabilities of the ANSF were instrumental in this successful engagement with Taliban insurgents."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Oct. 28, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces engaged and killed more than six dozen Taliban fighters near the Musa Qaleh Wadi region of Afghanistan's Helmand province yesterday, officials reported. A combined Afghan-coalition forces patrol was conducting reconnaissance when Taliban fighters engaged them with rocket and small-arms fire. The combined patrol immediately returned fire, maneuvered, and employed close-air support, resulting about 80 Taliban fighters killed during a six-hour engagement. During the battle, the combined force exchanged small-arms fire with the fleeing attackers, quickly putting them on the defensive.
The insurgents attacked from a trench line using small arms, machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades. The Afghan and coalition forces fixed the enemy in their positions, and four separate precision-munitions engagements killed more than six dozen insurgents who were trying to reinforce enemy positions.
"Afghan national security and coalition forces remain devoted to uprooting Taliban insurgents in the Musa Qaleh Wadi region," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman.
In other operations yesterday, Afghan and coalition forces engaged insurgent fighters near Kandahar province's Shah Wali Kowt district.
The combined force was conducting a reconnaissance patrol when several insurgents engaged them with rocket and small-arms fire. The patrol immediately engaged the Taliban element, killing several enemy fighters before they fled the area.
"Today, the Afghan national security forces spotted the enemies of Afghanistan before they could carry out their attack," Belcher said. "The superior capabilities of the ANSF were instrumental in this successful engagement with Taliban insurgents."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Afghans Plan, Secure 3rd Annual Peace Games
American Forces Press Service
Oct. 23, 2007 - Afghan national security forces planned and secured the 3rd Annual Chamkani Peace Games in the Chamkani district of Afghanistan's Paktia province in mid-October, where 45 sports teams participated in events that included soccer, cricket and volleyball. "The Peace Games are very important for the mindset of the youth involved," a local Afghan elder said. "It is important for our children to learn how to compete without killing each other. This is a great day for all of Afghanistan."
The coalition-trained Afghan forces took charge and worked with local leaders and several youth groups to leverage resources. The event went off without incident.
"This is a true indication of progress by the (Afghan national security forces) in securing the region and increasing the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan's legitimacy," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman.
The atmosphere at the peace games was positive and energetic, among competitors and spectators alike. A spectator from Bagyar expressed his gratitude for the recreational outlet. Another spectator was holding an Afghan flag and said, "I can't wait to play in next year's Peace Games."
The Peace Games are held annually for youth throughout the province so they can face each other in friendly competition. This year's games included volleyball for the first time. Local leaders plan to add more events in the coming years.
"One of the main goals is to build a sense of unity and a sense of national pride," Belcher said. "It is also an opportunity for everyone to observe a more peaceful side of the Afghan society and to witness the (government) providing a positive service for the Afghan people."
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Oct. 23, 2007 - Afghan national security forces planned and secured the 3rd Annual Chamkani Peace Games in the Chamkani district of Afghanistan's Paktia province in mid-October, where 45 sports teams participated in events that included soccer, cricket and volleyball. "The Peace Games are very important for the mindset of the youth involved," a local Afghan elder said. "It is important for our children to learn how to compete without killing each other. This is a great day for all of Afghanistan."
The coalition-trained Afghan forces took charge and worked with local leaders and several youth groups to leverage resources. The event went off without incident.
"This is a true indication of progress by the (Afghan national security forces) in securing the region and increasing the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan's legitimacy," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman.
The atmosphere at the peace games was positive and energetic, among competitors and spectators alike. A spectator from Bagyar expressed his gratitude for the recreational outlet. Another spectator was holding an Afghan flag and said, "I can't wait to play in next year's Peace Games."
The Peace Games are held annually for youth throughout the province so they can face each other in friendly competition. This year's games included volleyball for the first time. Local leaders plan to add more events in the coming years.
"One of the main goals is to build a sense of unity and a sense of national pride," Belcher said. "It is also an opportunity for everyone to observe a more peaceful side of the Afghan society and to witness the (government) providing a positive service for the Afghan people."
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Monday, October 22, 2007
Afghan, Coalition Forces Defeat Insurgents in Helmand Province
American Forces Press Service
Oct. 22, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces engaged and killed nearly three dozen Taliban fighters in a second day of sustained fighting near the Musa Qaleh Wadi region of Helmand province today. The combined force was conducting a reconnaissance mission when Taliban fighters engaged the patrol with rocket and small-arms fire. ANSF and coalition forces returned fire and easily out-maneuvered the enemy, quickly putting them on the defensive.
The Taliban continued attempting to reinforce their ambush positions for several hours. The coalition used small-arms, machine gun, mortar fire and close-air support to destroy Taliban fighters.
The enemy also placed an improvised explosive device along the route to prevent Afghan and coalition forces' movements; however, an Afghan citizen led coalition members to the IED, where it was destroyed in place.
"Even in the midst of a fierce firefight, an Afghan civilian led the (Afghan forces) to an IED, preventing a potential disaster," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force-82 spokesman. "This is a clear statement that Afghan citizens know the (Afghan forces are) here to secure and create a stable environment."
Today's actions are part of a larger operation to disrupt terrorist activities in the Helmand province. On Oct. 19, more than a dozen Taliban insurgents attacked a combined Afghan and coalition forces reconnaissance patrol in the Musa Qaleh Wadi region, but were also repelled. There were no reports of non-combatant injuries or damage to property.
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Oct. 22, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces engaged and killed nearly three dozen Taliban fighters in a second day of sustained fighting near the Musa Qaleh Wadi region of Helmand province today. The combined force was conducting a reconnaissance mission when Taliban fighters engaged the patrol with rocket and small-arms fire. ANSF and coalition forces returned fire and easily out-maneuvered the enemy, quickly putting them on the defensive.
The Taliban continued attempting to reinforce their ambush positions for several hours. The coalition used small-arms, machine gun, mortar fire and close-air support to destroy Taliban fighters.
The enemy also placed an improvised explosive device along the route to prevent Afghan and coalition forces' movements; however, an Afghan citizen led coalition members to the IED, where it was destroyed in place.
"Even in the midst of a fierce firefight, an Afghan civilian led the (Afghan forces) to an IED, preventing a potential disaster," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force-82 spokesman. "This is a clear statement that Afghan citizens know the (Afghan forces are) here to secure and create a stable environment."
Today's actions are part of a larger operation to disrupt terrorist activities in the Helmand province. On Oct. 19, more than a dozen Taliban insurgents attacked a combined Afghan and coalition forces reconnaissance patrol in the Musa Qaleh Wadi region, but were also repelled. There were no reports of non-combatant injuries or damage to property.
(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Afghan, Coalition Forces Kill, Detain Taliban Militants
American Forces Press Service
Oct. 19, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces today killed more than 12 Taliban fighters in Helmand province and captured five suspected militants in Zabul province, military officials reported. Afghan national security and coalition forces engaged and killed more than a dozen Taliban fighters, including a suspected Taliban commander, in the Musa Qaleh Wadi region of Helmand province today.
The combined force was conducting a reconnaissance patrol in northern Helmand when insurgents attacked them with small-arms and rocket-propelled-grenade fire. Afghan and coalition forces immediately maneuvered and engaged the enemy with small arms, close-air support and artillery fire, repelling the initial attack.
Taliban forces attempted to reinforce their positions with additional fighters and weapons for several hours, but were repeatedly neutralized by friendly forces. There were no reports of non-combatant injuries or damage to property.
"The Taliban tried to surround the (Afghan national security forces) and coalition forces, but the coalition's quick reaction thwarted the enemy attack and saved the Afghan citizens from future atrocities," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman.
Five suspected militants were detained by coalition forces in two separate operations today in Zabul province.
While carrying out an operation to disrupt violent extremist activities in the Shajoy district, coalition forces met with hostile resistance during a search of a compound in the area.
"During a search of several buildings in the Shajoy district, coalition forces received small-arms fire from one of the buildings on the compound," Belcher said. "Coalition forces returned fire, effectively ending the attack."
Resuming their search, coalition forces detained four individuals intelligence sources indicated as having possible ties with militant forces.
In the other operation, coalition forces conducted a search of storage facilities in the Qalat district where individuals suspected of having ties to militant forces were indicated to be hiding.
"Coalition forces detained an individual whom reliable intelligence sources indicated as possibly having ties to key militants in the area," Belcher said. "How important this individual is to the overall architecture of extremist forces will not be determined for some time. However, extremist forces now have one less member to facilitate violent actions against the people of Afghanistan."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Oct. 19, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces today killed more than 12 Taliban fighters in Helmand province and captured five suspected militants in Zabul province, military officials reported. Afghan national security and coalition forces engaged and killed more than a dozen Taliban fighters, including a suspected Taliban commander, in the Musa Qaleh Wadi region of Helmand province today.
The combined force was conducting a reconnaissance patrol in northern Helmand when insurgents attacked them with small-arms and rocket-propelled-grenade fire. Afghan and coalition forces immediately maneuvered and engaged the enemy with small arms, close-air support and artillery fire, repelling the initial attack.
Taliban forces attempted to reinforce their positions with additional fighters and weapons for several hours, but were repeatedly neutralized by friendly forces. There were no reports of non-combatant injuries or damage to property.
"The Taliban tried to surround the (Afghan national security forces) and coalition forces, but the coalition's quick reaction thwarted the enemy attack and saved the Afghan citizens from future atrocities," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman.
Five suspected militants were detained by coalition forces in two separate operations today in Zabul province.
While carrying out an operation to disrupt violent extremist activities in the Shajoy district, coalition forces met with hostile resistance during a search of a compound in the area.
"During a search of several buildings in the Shajoy district, coalition forces received small-arms fire from one of the buildings on the compound," Belcher said. "Coalition forces returned fire, effectively ending the attack."
Resuming their search, coalition forces detained four individuals intelligence sources indicated as having possible ties with militant forces.
In the other operation, coalition forces conducted a search of storage facilities in the Qalat district where individuals suspected of having ties to militant forces were indicated to be hiding.
"Coalition forces detained an individual whom reliable intelligence sources indicated as possibly having ties to key militants in the area," Belcher said. "How important this individual is to the overall architecture of extremist forces will not be determined for some time. However, extremist forces now have one less member to facilitate violent actions against the people of Afghanistan."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Afghan, U.S. Forces Nab Four Suspects, Net Big Ammo Cache
American Forces Press Service
Oct. 10, 2007 - Afghan and coalition security forces captured four suspected terrorists and seized a large weapons cache during two separate joint operations Oct. 8, officials said. Afghan and U.S. troops captured four suspected militants during a joint raid in the Gardez district of Paktia province, officials reported. Acting on credible intelligence, the combined force proceeded to compounds where the suspected anti-coalition militants were thought to be hiding.
A search of the compounds resulted in the capture of four individuals with suspected ties to extremist forces. The detainees will be questioned as to their involvement in extremist activities. There were no indications of injuries or deaths to noncombatants. Minor damage was done to buildings during the course of operations.
In the other operation, Afghan and coalition security forces confiscated a large ammunition cache in the Qalat district of Zabul province. The cache was hidden inside a compound near Jarollah village. It contained 100 rocket-propelled-grenade rounds, 6,400 machine-gun rounds and more than 150,000 AK-47 rifle rounds. The confiscated ammunition was in pristine condition, officials said.
"This is an excellent example of the (Islamic Republic of Afghanistan) government developing their own intelligence and preventing Taliban fighters from wounding and killing Afghan civilians," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "This is a strong warning to the Taliban that Afghans are taking responsibility for their own protection and safety."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Oct. 10, 2007 - Afghan and coalition security forces captured four suspected terrorists and seized a large weapons cache during two separate joint operations Oct. 8, officials said. Afghan and U.S. troops captured four suspected militants during a joint raid in the Gardez district of Paktia province, officials reported. Acting on credible intelligence, the combined force proceeded to compounds where the suspected anti-coalition militants were thought to be hiding.
A search of the compounds resulted in the capture of four individuals with suspected ties to extremist forces. The detainees will be questioned as to their involvement in extremist activities. There were no indications of injuries or deaths to noncombatants. Minor damage was done to buildings during the course of operations.
In the other operation, Afghan and coalition security forces confiscated a large ammunition cache in the Qalat district of Zabul province. The cache was hidden inside a compound near Jarollah village. It contained 100 rocket-propelled-grenade rounds, 6,400 machine-gun rounds and more than 150,000 AK-47 rifle rounds. The confiscated ammunition was in pristine condition, officials said.
"This is an excellent example of the (Islamic Republic of Afghanistan) government developing their own intelligence and preventing Taliban fighters from wounding and killing Afghan civilians," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "This is a strong warning to the Taliban that Afghans are taking responsibility for their own protection and safety."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
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