Official Magazine of ISAF
Issue 49 July 2008 MIRROR ISAFInternational Security Assistance Force • Issue 50 September 2008 • New Kajaki Dam turbine delivery a success Page 20
Images from Afghanistan Page 10 COMISAF Intent n full partnership with the grow- Security Forces against the ing institutions of the Islamic insurgents’ strategy and oth- IRepublic of Afghanistan, and ers who forcibly oppose the within the means allocated by progress of this campaign. NATO and the many nations sup- We will assist in demonstrat- porting the mission, ISAF demon- ing the growing capacity of strates NATO’s commitment to the ANSF to meet the GIRoA’s security, reconstruction and the security challenges, and will extension of governance in Af- operate in such a way as to ghanistan. Further, ISAF demon- demonstrate respect for the strates both the will and capacity to Afghan people and their cul- apply irresistible force by, through, ture in order to effect their di- and in support of Afghan National rect support of our endeavor. ISAF Mission Conduct military operations in the assigned area of operations to assist the Government of Afghanistan in the establishment and maintenance of a safe and secure envi ronment with full engage- ment of Afghan National Security Forces, in order to extend gov- ernment authority and influence, thereby facilitating Afghanistan’s Gen. David D. McKiernan reconstruction and contributing to regional stability. Commander, ISAF
ISAF operations are divided among five regional commands: Editorial Staff Regional Command Capital (approx strength 5,900) Royal Navy Captain •HQ ISAF in Kabul (Composite) Mark Windsor Chief, Public Affairs •HQ RC-C in Kabul (FRA) Regional Command South (approx strength 23,800) US Navy Lieutenant •HQ RC-S in Kandahar (CAN) Jessica L. Gandy Regional Command West (approx strength 2,500) Chief, Multipurpose Public Affairs/ •HQ RC-W in Herat (ITA) Editor Regional Command North (approx strength 4,300) Turkish Army First Lieutenant •HQ RC-N in Mazar-e-Sharif (DEU) Yuksel Kilic Regional Command East (approx strength 16,400) Chief Internal Command Affairs •HQ RC-E in Bagram (USA) US Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Michael E. Wagoner Layout and Design Front Page: Back Page: Austrailian soldier stand Afghan girl steps out of her Turkish Army Sergeant 1st Class guard in Tarin Kowt. home in Kandahar. Ramazan Cagliyan Photo by: PO1 John Collins Photo by: PO1 John Collins Assistant Layout and Design
2 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 official magazine of isaf ISAF MIRROR CONTENTS Pages 4-5 Regional Command Capital
Pages 6-7 Regional Command East
Pages 8-9 Regional Command North
Pages 10-11 Images from Afghanistan
Pages 12-15 Winning in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
Page 16-17 Interview with Command Sergeant Major Savusa
Page 18 NRDC - Turkey Begins Duty in ISAF HQ
Page 19 Reagan Supports Coalition Forces in Afghanistan
Pages 20-21 Regional Command South
Page 22 Regional Command West
Pages 23 Success Stories Around Afghanistan
ISAF Mirror is a Headquarters International Security Assistance Force Public Affairs product intended for the information and entertainment of ISAF and associated person- nel. Though articles have been edited, opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policies of NATO, Joint Forces Command Headquarters Brunssum or ISAF. The Mirror is published every two months (March, May, July, September and November) and distributed among the regional commands. View it on-line at www.nato.int/isaf. Submissions to ISAF Mirror should be related to ISAF operations; however, other articles may be run based on their appeal to an international military audience. Articles should be sent in Microsoft Word format and photos should be at least 4.5 cm at 300 dpi resolution. Include identifying information of authors. E-mail submissions to jessica.gandy@ hq.isaf.nato.int. The deadline for submissions is the 25th day of the month prior to publication. To contact the editor, call DSN 318 686 2466 or e-mail [email protected].
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 3 Regional command capital + RC - Ca p i t a l Ch a n g e o f Co m m a n d
Story courtesy of Camp Warehouse abul - On August 5th, Re- and ISAF.” He also stressed the close gional Command Capital`s cooperation between RC-C and ANSF K(RC-C) change of com- improving security in Kabul area. mand ceremony took place at Camp RC-C troops engaged local popula- Warehouse between Italian Brigadier tion constantly and comprehensively, General Federico Bonato, command- providing medical and veterinary ac- ing RC-C since December 2007 and tivities in remote villages; realizing French General Michel Stollsteiner. several projects like schools, clinics During his speech, General Bonato and hospitals; increasing agriculture wanted to thank all the soldiers of the and preventing famine in rural areas. RC-C and summarized the activities At the end of ceremony, General of the last eight months. David McKiernan thanked the former “I am really proud to have been your Commander of RC-C underlining how commander,” he said to all the troops, much he appreciated his commitment “we carried out a lot of activities for to achieving a difficult mission and the population, we increased the con- also wished success to the new Com- fidence among the locals, the GiROA mander.
4 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 RC - Ca p i t a l Ch a n g e o f Co m m a n d
20 Afghan Students Visit
Story courtesy of Camp Warehouse Turkey for First Time urkish Battle Group Civil- ter that, they went to Istanbul, which is of them: seeing another country and Military Co-Operation Team one of the most beautiful cities in the another culture, learning the world Tarranged a ten day Turkey visit World. In Istanbul, they visited many outside Afghanistan. They were very for 20 Afghan students in early August. historical places like Dolmabahce pleased with the Turkish Nation’s hos- It was arranged by the coordination Palace, Topkapi Palace and the Blue tility. between Turkish Battle Group CIMIC Mosque. They also had the chance to TU BG CIMIC Team commander Team and Turkish Armed Forces Gen- make a tour to the Istanbul Bosporus. Capt. Murat METE (TUR ARMY) eral Staff Command. During the visit In Istanbul, they visited Kuleli Mili- said that a dream became reality for an Afghan interpreter and Afghan in- tary High School from which many the 20 Afghan students and TU BG structor escorted the students. The stu- at of the Turkish officers studied be- CIMIC Teams would participate in dents were chosen among the attend- fore the War Academy. After Istanbul this kind of tour in the future. ees at the Turkish Language course, they went on their tour in Cankkale, TU BG is helping Afghan people which is one of the courses that TU an important place in Turkish Military not only in security but also in other BG is conducting in Kabul area. These history for the battle of 1915. In Cana- fields like craft courses, Turkish lan- were the most successful students in kkale, they visited the theatre of World guage course, computer science, sew- the course. War I and historical Truva. ing, embroidery and carpentry. After arriving in Turkey, they began Despite visiting just a small part of Nearly 500 Afghans are participat- their visit from the capital Ankara. Turkey they were very pleased. They ing in these courses. These courses They visited the mausoleum of Mus- also made a good practice of their new are very useful for improving the eco- tafa Kemal ATATURK, founder of language (Turkish) during the visit. nomic situation of the Afgan the modern Turkish Republic Turkey, The visit was just ten days but Af- population. other historical places and also the ghan students will never forget it. This Turkish Great National Assembly. Af- kind of visit was a dream for many
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 5 Regional command east +
Afghan Commandos, Coalition Forces Disrupt Taliban Stronghold in Zeriko Valley Story courtesy of Gardez PRT
AGRAM AIR FIELD, Af- claimed. After routing the enemy, the ness without the Combined Joint Task ghanistan — A team of Afghan Commandos freed 16 local men held Force-101’s Task Force Eagle air as- BNational Army Commandos, captive in the leader’s compound and sets landing us right on top of the Tali- advised by US Special Operations destroyed several Taliban weapons ban. The element of surprise took the Forces, attacked a Taliban sanctuary caches. wind out of their sails before the fight in western Afghanistan’s Zeriko Val- “We wanted to gauge the Taliban’s even started.” ley recently. fighting abilities, their weapons sys- The Marine SOF team leader said he The combined forces sought to lib- tems and their chain-of-command ef- believes the operation sends an impor- erate locals in the stronghold estab- fectiveness within the Zeriko Valley,” tant message to both the Taliban and lished by a Taliban commander, who said a US SOF team sergeant. “Their the people of Afghanistan. is coordinating both the acquisition failure to defend themselves only “The Taliban can go anywhere in and movement of weapons and sup- proved how inferior they really are as this country and attempt to establish a plies, and the movement and employ- fighters.” sanctuary and we’ll be one step behind ment of Taliban fighters within Farah With increased Commando opera- to drive them out,” the team leader province. tions and diminishing Taliban pres- said. “There will be no safe haven for The Commandos and their SOF ence, the people living in the Zeriko Taliban fighters in this country. You advisors landed in the village of Par- Valley can lead safer lives. can be sure of that.” makan July 16. “We have people from the Zeriko “Our intent was to put them into a coming to talk to the Commando lead- dilemma where they could either come ership to thank the government for go- out and fight like men or run away and ing into the valley,” said a Marine SOF yield a position of significance while team sergeant. “They are extremely losing face among both the Taliban happy that the Commandos got rid of and the locals,” said a Marine SOF the tyranny they’ve been living with.” team leader, whose identity was with- The successful disruption of the held for security purposes. “On the Taliban in the Zeriko Valley can be first day we went in with the Com- directly attributed to the elite-warrior mandos, some of the Taliban fought capabilities and unwavering profes- and some ran away, but it didn’t take sionalism of the Commandos and the long for all of them to leave town. The US troops who advise them. entire operation was a huge slap in the “The Commandos performed flaw- face to the Taliban.” lessly in the Zeriko Valley,” said the Several Taliban leaders were the US SOF team leader. “The operation first to scurry away from the village, was a testament to their hard work and reinforcing the fact that they did not dedication to this country. We couldn’t lead the first-rate fighting force they have reached this level of effective-
6 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 Zabul PRT Assists Kuchi Village ABUL, Afghanistan - The no- be conducted twice a year and will im- Kuchi herds out in the districts. Be- madic Pashtun Kuchi tribe of prove the overall health of the herds fore the winter months the veterinar- KSouthern Afghanstan has been of sheep and goats. If the animals are ians will work through the Kuchi labeled as one of the largest and most not treated the effects of worms un- Tribal Elders to treat as many animals vulnerable populations in the coun- checked in these animals can be quite as possible. try. The Kuchi livelihood depends on severe and can result in death of the The last phase of this project will the maintenance and grazing of large animals or infection of humans. Over see the construction of a Kuchi animal herds sheep and goats. the three days, Maj Bosworth and his market in Qalat City. This project will The Zabul Provincial Reconstruc- team were able to treat many sheep, be one of the highlights of Specialist tion Team (PRT) in conjunction with goats and cattle. Don DeBardeladen’s tour. He’s had the Provincial Government of Zabul The Provincial Government of the chance to work with Governor Ar- has created a plan to improve condi- Zabul was extremely excited about man, Deputy Governor Gulab Shah, tions for the Kuchi tribesmen in the the benefits that this project will bring and the Mayor of Qalat City, Jaanet vicinity of Qalat City. Specialist Don to the Kuchi people. Governor Arman Gul. The animal market will consist of DeBardelaben is working in close co- said, “It is extremely important to help upgraded facilities for the Kuchis and ordination with Kuchi Tribal Leaders the Kuchi people with their animals their animals including a veterinarian and Qalat City authorities to bring this as herding represents their main live- centre, pens for 1000 animals, and ac- three-phased plan to life. lihood. We have to support them to cess to potable water. The construc- The plan began with three Veterinar- ensure that their livelihoods are main- tion of this centralized facility will see ians Civil Assistance Patrols (VET- tained during these hard times.” the Kuchis becoming increasingly in- CAPs) held in Qalat City on August These three small VETCAPs, held tegrated into the trading economy of 18, 19 and 20. In order to conduct the on August 19, 20 and 21 have allowed Zabul province. activity three US military specialists the PRT to make more contacts with, This project is one of many cur- were brought in from Bagram Airfield and gain the trust of, the Kuchi Tribal rently being conducted by the US-led including a veterinarian technician – leadership. The PRT is committed to Zabul PRT in Qalat City. The approxi- US Army Sergeant Kenneth Cole, a supporting the Provincial Government mate dollar value of this project will medical entomologist – Lieutenant- to improve conditions for the Kuchis. be 43,000 USD but the impact will Commander Michael Zyzak, and a vet- These VETCAPs have shown the Ku- extend much further within the Kuchi erinarian – Major Bill Bosworth. This chis concrete examples of the govern- community as it will create a central- specialized crew brought in medicines ment’s commitment to provide for ized trading hub for the Kuchi tribes- to treat the animals of the local Kuchi them in the future. men. tribesmen. The treatments, mainly The next phase of this project will concentrated on de-worming, should be to conduct VETCAPs for the large
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 7 Regional command north + Afghans, Germans start first joint scientific research project ABUL, Afghanistan — Af- and camera to archive data on Leish- Afghanistan, the disease is commonly ghans and Germans began the maniasis patients. That information passed to humans through the bite of Kfirst joint scientific research and deep-frozen blood samples from infected sand flies. project recently when ISAF soldiers infected patients will then be sent to The German doctors at the Federal delivered a laptop and digital camera the Tropical Institute in Hamburg, Armed Forces Hospital hope the joint to the Balkh Leishmaniasis Centre in Germany, for further study. effort with Afghan doctors will further Mazar-e-Sharif. Leishmaniasis is a disease that caus- the study and treatment of the disease, During the next three years, Afghan es skin sores and often enlarges the specifically in regards to the human doctors at the centre will use the laptop spleen, among other consequences. In body’s defences against it.
Ground Combat Support Group Teaches Afghan Class azar-e Sharif – The sun is nities located in the Area of Operation to hold the lesson outdoors since he shining in Mazar-e Sharif, (AOO), 480 meters in size, around found the classroom not equipped MNorthern Afghanistan, and Camp Marmal is an essential key in with tables and chairs. He introduces the inhabitants of the villages around the security concept of the Ground himself to the children as the head of a Camp Marmal, the base of the Ger- Combat Support Group of the Air family with two children hinting at one man ISAF soldiers, meanwhile have Wing Mazar-e Sharif. Within the ca- boy who seems to be the same age as placed special confidence in the Ger- pabilities of ISAF and in close cooper- his son. Later on, Marc Andrè shows mans. This is the reason why Master ation with CIMIC the relevant Village them the location of Germany and Sergeant Marc Andrè P. will give les- NCOs are initiating various projects, Afghanistan on the map of the world. sons in the village school of Qali-N such as school improvement, well dig- “The German soldiers and the ISAF Bafan. ging, road construction and other in- soldiers are here to create confidence The 36-year-old Master Sergeant of frastructural measures. The close link and establish safety and security,” he the Ground Combat Support Group is with the villages is an important base explains to the children. The linguist the Village NCO of this village com- for overt intelligence collection and has quite a lot to do to make this easily prising 77 families. He is visiting the for permanent consolidation of the op- understandable in their language. village at least once a week so that he erational picture. While Marc Andrè is talking, more knows the matters of the population’s Right after the mayor’s friendly and more adults are gathering around. concern. The fact that he is in perma- welcome the German soldiers are sur- They sit down on the clay ground and nent contact and on friendly terms rounded by three dozens of children. also follow closely to what the Ger- with the population of the 11 commu- Marc Andrè unceremoniously decides man soldier is telling. Marc Andrè
8 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 Images from the meets with bright eyes and beaming unfriendly and impolite to reject such obvious, and they are grateful that the faces when he produces some photo- an invitation,”North explains the Master German soldiers are always willing to graphs from his pocket which he had Sergeant. listen to them. One week earlier, sev- taken on the occasion of his last visit He accepts the invitation together eral village inhabitants received medi- and fixes them to the clay hut. with two of his men. The soldiers cal treatment by German physicians “You remember that I took these now have a half-an-hour talk with so that it is easy for Marc Andrè to photographs during my last visit,” he the mayor. “Even if we do not have win more confidence among the popu- says grinning, “now I hand them out to anything, you are always welcome,” lation. you for your classroom.” The children says the Malek. They are getting clos- On his way back, the 36-year-old are surprised since they never saw er while having flat bead and tea, so grins saying: “What a successful day. I their faces on a photograph before. that the Malik finally asks the Master would like each and every day in thea- They are laughing, fooling around and Sergeant whether it is possible to get tre to be like that.” In fact, the soldiers are very happy. “In this country you two footballs for the children. Marc had the impression to be really wel- can push forward great things with Andrè does not hesitate a second in come and that their mission actually little things”, says a Corporal in the promising the balls under the follow- makes sense. This was a day in theatre background. ing condition: “Then we have to have like many others, but nevertheless a Chudai Borde, Malek and mayor, a football match, and you will not be very special day in Mazar-e Sharif. is that moved that he spontaneously the winners.” invites the Master Sergeant and two They all start laughing after the lin- of his men to have a tea. “It would be guist’s translation. Their confidence is
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 9 images from afghanistan
Sunset in RC-North HQ.
10 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 The stars shine bright over a Dutch convoy at night during a patrol in RC-South.
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 11 Winning in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
General David D. McKiernan Commander, International Security Assistance Force, Afghanistan
he International Security As- gencies, the solution will be a political MA, other organizations and members sistance Force (ISAF) is in Af- one, not a military one. This is why of the International Community -- all Tghanistan to win. Winning is we are focused on a comprehensive in support of the legitimately elected about building a better future for Af- approach along three lines of effort – GIRoA. ghanistan, viewed in Afghan capacity security, governance, and reconstruc- We are fighting a counterinsur- – achieving a real sense of security, a tion and development. ISAF’s main gency campaign based on a SHAPE, viable government with capable and contribution is in security. UN and CLEAR, HOLD, and BUILD strategy. competent institutions, sustained de- NATO mandates make us the lead for We SHAPE the conditions of the se- velopment, and improved economic the international community. With re- curity environment, CLEAR areas of opportunity. Winning matters to our spect to governance and development insurgents, HOLD with enduring pres- national security and to the security efforts we support others, namely the ence of ANSF, and set the conditions of our international partners who are Government of the Islamic Republic of to BUILD through enabling the expan- here fighting with us and the Afghan Afghanistan (GIRoA) and the United sion of viable governance and develop- National Security Forces (ANSF). Nations Assistance Mission Afghani- ment. Our focus must be the Afghan This endeavor will take time and a stan (UNAMA). In all these efforts people and their priorities – security, long term commitment. Ultimately, we take an integrated approach, work- basic needs and services. Therefore, as history has proven in counter-insur- ing in close cooperation with UNA- we emphasize support to the popula-
12 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 Winning in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
tions most threatened and focus on the ter to Afghan culture and illegitimate. order to facilitate criminal or power- key infrastructure needed to ensure The insurgents are over-matched in broker aims. Motivations are diverse, security, enable basic governance and every fight with the Afghan National ranging from extremist ideology, lack services, and promote development. Army (ANA) and coalition forces. of alternative employment, fear, and a All of these efforts must be achieved That said, the insurgency is not short historical aversion to foreign presence in the cultural, religious and environ- on manpower. It recruits across the to a culture of violence inherent from mental context of Afghanistan. border; it cooperates with criminals decades of warfare. It is neither uni- Are we winning? The short answer and narcotics traffickers, and it can fied nor coherent in action, but does is that progress is uneven – yes in some influence or intimidate those without manage to cooperate at times in cer- areas, not yet in others. More impor- practical alternatives, education or in- tain regions. tantly, the insurgency is not winning come. Violence is up this year for several and cannot win. The Afghan people The insurgency we are fighting in reasons. First, insurgents have delib- do not want the Taliban back or any Afghanistan is a loosely syndicated erately changed to more asymmetric other substitute espousing extremist network of groups with different ob- tactics -- smaller in scale, more vul- ideology. The tactics of the Taliban, jectives and diverse motivations. Ob- nerable targets, and shorter in dura- Al Qaeda, and others in this “nexus of jectives range from government over- tion. These tactics require less so- insurgency” are recognized as coun- throw to weakening local authority in phisticated command and control and
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 13 continued from page 13 result in less direct contact (and less majority of Afghans have access to Governors, District Sub-Governors, attrition). Larger scale attacks con- healthcare. Mortality rates are drop- appointed village representatives, trib- tinue, but at a lower rate. Second, in- ping. More Afghans have access to al elders, as well as District Develop- surgent freedom of action to recruit, water and electricity. Hundreds of kil- ment Assemblies and Community De- stage, train and sustain across the bor- ometers of new roads have been built velopment Councils. The two greatest der has improved due to the lack of an which link communities and enable limitations to faster progress in govern- effective counterinsurgency capability commerce. The gross national prod- ance are lack of trained human capital and strategy in the Pakistan tribal ar- uct is growing 10% annually. How- and endemic corruption. Wide-spread eas. A porous border exacerbates this ever, many Afghans still do not have illiteracy and an under developed edu- situation. Finally, ISAF and ANSF access to basic services and formida- cation system are generational chal- are operating in areas they have not ble challenges remain such as illitera- lenges to overcome through a long been before. Increased coalition force cy, unemployment, drought, narcotics term commitment. The scourge of contributions and a growing ANSF, trade, and addiction. corruption erodes public support and in both capacity and capability, mean The real question is, what will it take confidence. Although corruption is more operations to disrupt insurgents to win? We must acknowledge that the object of great international pres- in their safe havens or support zones. an enduring peace in Afghanistan re- sure as the coalition works to identify, Despite the freedom of action insur- quires addressing militant sanctuaries expose and eliminate its sources, this gents enjoy in Pakistan, the insurgen- in Pakistan and improving governance challenge will require our continued cy is not spreading inside Afghanistan. at all levels within Afghanistan – na- persistence and patience. The insurgency remains concentrated tional, provincial, district, municipal, Winning also requires increased in Pashtun tribal areas in the South and village. The former is a matter for forces (ANSF and ISAF) and secu- and East. Less than 7% of the Af- the governments of the United States rity capability over a sustained period. ghan people experience insurgent re- and key international partners to work The Afghan Soldier and growth of the lated violence on a frequent basis in with Pakistan. Regional stability and ANA is a definite success story, but the their district. Insurgent activity has the success of global counter-terrorism Army must continue to grow and de- increased in the East with respect to are at stake. For ISAF’s part, we are velop. The US-led Combined Securi- last year, but elsewhere the increase in aggressively working to improve co- ty Transition Command – Afghanistan ANSF and ISAF offensive operations ordination and effective cooperation (CSTC-A) is largely responsible for accounts for the rise in contacts. The between ANSF, ISAF and the Paki- this success. Since the start of 2008 Afghan people, however, do not feel stan military. Improving governance the first seven Kandaks (battalions) secure from the insurgency, crime, or is a focus of our integrated approach have been declared capable of inde- corruption in many areas of the coun- at all levels to build human capacity pendent operations with ANA units try. and improve services for and account- leading the majority of their opera- Progress is wide-spread but uneven. ability to the Afghan people. ISAF is tions. ANA strength is on glide path A million more children are attend- engaged in daily direct dialogue with to grow to 80,000 by 2010 with further ing school than two years ago. The key Afghan ministries and staff part- increase to 134,000 by 2014. ANA nership with leadership at all levels is good, and the Ministry in-place leader development programs of Defense to will only make it better. Soldier com- improve effec- mitment, and war fighting spirit are tiveness and strong. They are reliable in combat connect the and a formidable foe to their adversar- government ies. They have gained the confidence to the Afghan and support of the Afghan people. The people. Re- emerging Afghan National Army Air gional and Corps already consists of 17 MI-17 subordinate Assault Helicopters, four An-34 and Commanders, two An-26 Transport Aircraft and ex- together with ecutes the majority of air movements P r o v i n c i a l required by the ANSF. The ANA exe- Reconstruc- cuted their first independent air move- tion Teams ment operations in July. Additionally, partner with the Commando Brigade, trained by P r o v i n c i a l the US-led Combined Joint Special
14 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 Operations Task Force –Afghanistan needed is to conduct COIN operations years will be decisive for the future of (CJSOTF-A), are highly skilled, elite where we are not present today or can- Afghanistan. We must translate our infantry Soldiers for each of the ANA not sustain our presence. In order to successes into further stability so that Corps. Commando Kandaks with get to “BUILD” in our COIN strategy, we maintain these positive returns. CJSOTF-A advisors are the most ef- we must be able to first “HOLD.” A Afghans will conduct Voter Regis- fective counterinsurgency force in the lack of forces – maneuver and ena- tration from October 2008 to March ANA and operate with great effect. blers -- to date has resulted in repeat 2009 in preparation for Presidential The Afghan National Police (ANP) is operations to CLEAR areas we have and Provincial Elections in Septem- progressing at a slower pace, but ISAF been before, but could not remain in or ber – October 2009. ANSF will as- and CSTC-A have partnered to set the “HOLD” due to other demands. sume lead security responsibility for conditions for steady improvement. To address this force requirement, the Province of Kabul and eventually Pay reform, grade reform, elimination President Bush has authorized an ad- other provinces as the right conditions of private governor militias, Police ditional American troop contribution are set. The ANA will continue to Mentor Teams and the training of a for Afghanistan. In September the grow in size and capability. The ANP highly capable Afghan National Civil President announced an additional will make real strides in professional- Order Police (ANCOP) are CSTC-A Army combat brigade will deploy to ism and COIN capability. ISAF will initiatives that are comprehensively Afghanistan in January. We are confi- grow in capability, and together with improving ANP competence and capa- dent other NATO leaders are working ANSF, take the fight relentlessly to the bility. The ANCOP battalions are the to resource our force requirements as enemies of Afghanistan. UNAMA, key enabler to Focus District Devel- other global commitments evolve. ISAF and others of the International opment (FDD). FDD is a program to The recent US initiative to establish Community will improve cooperation reform police and improve rule of law US Forces – Afghanistan (USFOR-A) and development aid effectiveness at the grass roots level. District police is a great step forward in improving in support of the Government of Af- are temporarily replaced by ANCOP unity of effort and effectiveness in ghanistan. The insurgency will react battalions while vetting, recruiting Afghanistan. The Department of De- and external challenges will remain. and re-training occurs. Districts are fense’s decision streamlines command Our great Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen selected jointly by ISAF and GIRoA. and control, identifies one US com- and Marines will not fail us. The rate Construction or improvement of key mander for the conventional forces in of progress will depend on factors district infrastructure is synchronized. theater, and creates synergy among the we only indirectly influence, but our ANCOP battalions take over policing two different ISAF and Operation En- resolve must not falter. The Afghan and then are relieved eight weeks lat- during Freedom mandates. people and international security de- er by the newly trained district ANP. What lies ahead? The next two pend on us to prevail. The program has been successful in improving ANP skills and effective- ness, reducing civilian casualties (as ANP abil- ity to protect and defend improves), and improv- ing public confidence. Additional forces are required for two reasons – ANSF mentoring and partnership, and coun- terinsurgency (COIN) operations. The ANA increase and the need to develop ANP require more international forces to train, mentor, and part- ner. More forces can also accelerate ANSF force generation. The second reason more forces are
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 15 Interview with Command Sergeant Major Iuniasolua T. Savusa International Security Assistance Force, Afghanistan
ou left American Samoa at 17 was easy for me to adapt to the Army How would you describe our mis- years old, joined the US Army because of the system I grew up in. It sion at ISAF? Y in 1975 and now find yourself was easy for me to follow orders as the most senior enlisted servicemem- well as understand how to give them. It is always a privilege to serve at all ber in ISAF. Where did the story be- American Samoa, in the Pacific ba- levels of leadership and with soldiers. gin? sin, is the most pro-US Island in the They have made me who I am today. region. American Samoa has sus- When I was with 101st we were the I joined the army directly after high tained a high casualty rate per capita first brigade deployed after 9/11. We school and headed to basic training in this war. With that, there is still participated in operations that we be- through Fort Polk, LA. It was a culture tremendous support from the commu- lieve broke the Taliban and Al Qaeda shock coming from American Samoa nity. I have been back for a few of the and sent them limping across the bor- to Louisiana. After basic training, my funerals. I assisted with the first and it der to Pakistan. first duty station was Ft. Lewis Wash- was very humbling. I took one of my I am fortunate to have this oppor- ington where I joined the Rangers. own back to the Island. Today, as we tunity. This is the third time I’ve de- I wanted to join the army for eco- speak, I have nieces and nephews in ployed in this theatre. I have served as nomic reasons. Back home there were this theatre. They are out in the FOBs, a Brigade Sergeant Major at the ground not many jobs available to a young man where the “rubber meets the road” in level where the fighting is at. I’ve had and the Army offered an opportunity. what we are doing here- fighting the the privilege to move to higher level I found the Army as a way of life that insurgency. I am very, very proud of of commands to the four star level. suited me at the time. The discipline them. This is a coalition, and a different type of the Army mirrors the system we of command working with NATO and have back the international community to bring h o m e security to Afghanistan. called the In this type of command there is one Matai sys- goal: we want to ensure we bring se- tem. That curity which is the mandates of ISAF. s y s t e m We want to provide security and sta- basically bility with good governance down to resembles the village level. Help them with re- the chain construction and development of the of com- country not only here in the capital but mand in throughout the country. We are doing our mili- a lot of that with this multinational tary. It force. We certainly need more troops
16 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 to provide the security we need here. and stability to this country. Every and will help not only US forces, but Interview with Command Sergeant Major Iuniasolua T. Savusa Whether those troops come from the servicemember carries their nation’s forces throughout the country. US, international community or from credibility and their conduct speaks within Afghanistan by training and loud. Servicemembers must under- What advice would you like to pass better equipping the Afghan National stand their roles and responsibilities on to the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Army or Police- to bring this level of and respect the culture and people of Marines of ISAF? force. We need to provide the right this nation. level of security for this country be- There is no doubt about it, this is a Our troops must be prepared to oper- fore we get to the election next year- shooting war. This is the place where ate in all points of the spectrum, from the most strategic event for this coun- Al Qaeda and the Taliban staged the security, stability, and support opera- try and ISAF next year. It is important attacks of 9/11. We came here in 2002 tions to up close, brutal, and intense for Afghanistan to elect their leader and pushed them out, but since then, combat. Each individual must be self and see they have a voice in this sys- they have recuperated and now they confident and aggressive-in-execution tem and that the process works. We of their combat drills and task, yet did this with the presidential elections demonstrate compassion, sensitivity in 2004 which elected President Kar- “I believe this is a and respect for the regiional culture. zai and in 2005 for the parliamentary Be curious, know how to recognize elections. This time we have a stand- enemy patterns and, more important- ing ANSF: a larger ANA and a huge- good and the ly, how to exploit them. Like wise size ANP along with the border po- not let the enemy develop patterns of lice. More of the NATO Forces is part our operations. Continue to live by of this mission today and by the time right fight.” our joint-coalition values and honor- this election occurs we will have more ably represent your country and your troops here to enable the process. It are coming back to fight. We need to Armed Forces. is important to provide the security to partner with the ANSF fight the en- get the people to the polling sites. emies of their country. Any closing comments? This is a NATO-run organization. What do you think leaders should That will not change. We are here I believe this is a good and the right stress to troops out on the front lines? for the long haul and we are here to fight. This is where it all started with What do you see for the future of win. This headquarters will remain as Al Qaeda and the Taliban. We need ISAF? command and control of operations in the international community to stay Afghanistan. We will soon stand up engaged. I am truly humbled to be Perception. In most cases, percep- U.S. Forces Afghanistan where Gen- your Command Sergeant Major. tion is equated to reality. The actions eral McKiernan will become com- of the servicemembers could have stra- mander of all US Forces and this will tegic impact on this mission. I believe help with the unity of effort for the the flag we all wear on our uniform US Forces and our ISAF units in Af- is a sign of hope for people. It is a ghanistan. It will also bring in more sign that we will help to bring security capabilities which is severly needed
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 17 Reagan supports coalition forces in Afghanistan
NRDC - Turkey Begins
Story by First Lieutenant Yuksel Kilic, Duty in ISAF HQ Turkish Army ISAF HQ PAO n accordance with the ISAF February 2009. Exercise at the Joint Warfare Center in Standing HQ rotation plan, Core NRDC-T developed a challenging Stavanger, NORWAY June 18-27. IStaff Element (CSE) from NATO and coherent training program, This is the second rotation of Rapid Deployable Corps- Turkey and conducted a number of pre- NRDC-T in Afghanistan. The (NRDC-T) took over the responsibility deployment training activities such previous term was between January 13 from JFC-Naples at the beginning of as Key Leader Training (KLT) and and August 4, 2005. During that term, August 2008. Mission Specific Training (MST). In NRDC-T took over the command NRDC-T provides support with 91 order to be familiar with the ISAF responsibility of ISAF forces and Turkish and 24 Allied personnel under battle rhythm and the acquisitions carried out the mission of providing the command of BG Levent Colak for from previous training activities, CSE security and assistance to its area of the success of the ISAF mission until also conducted a Mission Rehearsal operation.
18 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 Reagan supports coalition forces in Afghanistan
Story by Lieutenant Ron Flanders, US Navy USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs
BOARD USS RONALD right now; our pilots and maintenance The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike REAGAN IN THE GULF OF crews are extremely sharp- they are Group performed the CTF 50 mission AOMAN - Carrier Strike Group in contact with coalition forces every for just over four months. (CSG) 7, the USS Ronald Reagan day. We’re talking to them, and “Abraham Lincoln and her Sailors (CVN 76) Carrier Strike Group, providing them support. The USS performed incredibly well,” said Capt. assumed the duties as Commander, Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike group is Kenneth Norton, Ronald Reagan’s Task Force (CTF) 50 from the USS doing our part to help coalition troops commanding officer. “We received Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Carrier and foster security in Afghanistan.” an outstanding turnover from Lincoln, Strike Group August 28, launching its Other CSG-7 ships are supporting and we’re here to provide the same first sorties into Afghanistan in support maritime security operations (MSO) high level of support to our coalition of Operation Enduring Freedom. in the 5th Fleet area of operations; the troops.” Since August 28, USS Ronald guided-missile destroyer USS Decatur The squadrons of CVW-14 include Reagan has flown 400 sorties, (DDG 73) and guided-missile frigate the “Redcocks” of Strike Fighter delivered 50 weapons and conducted USS Thach (FFG 43) have joined CTF Squadron (VFA) 22, the “Fist of the 30 strafing runs in support of coalition 152 to provide security to maritime Fleet” of VFA-25, the “Stingers” of ground forces. infrastructure in the Arabian Gulf, VFA-113, the “Eagles” of VFA-115, Aircraft from Carrier Air Wing and the guided-missile destroyers the “Black Eagles” of Airborne Early (CVW) 14 departed the decks of the USS Howard (DDG 83) and USS Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, the strike group’s flagship, the aircraft Gridley (DDG 101) have joined CTF “Cougars” of Tactical Electronic carrier USS Ronald Reagan bound 150 to help provide lawful maritime Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139, and the for Afghanistan to support coalition order and deter illicit activities in the “Black Knights” of Helicopter Anti- ground forces. Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman and Gulf Submarine Squadron (HS) 4. The “This is the mission we’ve been of Aden. Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group training for almost a year to carry out,” USS Ronald Reagan is joined is on a routine deployment to the said Rear Adm. Phil Wisecup, the strike by the guided-missile cruiser USS 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operations group commander. “Every Sailor in Chancellorsville (CG 62) and relieved to promote maritime security and this strike group has tremendous focus USS Abraham Lincoln on station. stability.
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 19 Regional command SOUTH +
ANSF and ISAF successfully deliver a new turbine to Kajaki Dam
abul, Afghanistan – In the commitment to the people of Afghani- early morning hours of Sep- stan. Ktember 2, ANSF and ISAF “Even though this operation was just successfully delivered a new turbine one step in a much wider and more to Kajaki Dam in Helmand province. long-term reconstruction project, this The result of the operation will be a operation clearly demonstrated ANSF much needed increase in capacity to and ISAF commitment to the recon- generate electrical power, which will struction effort in Afghanistan,” said- create a better quality of life for Af- Major General Lessard, Commander ghan people in southern Afghanistan. of Regional Command South. “ANSF The multi-national convoy, travelled and ISAF believe that the population 180km over road and desert tracks to of Afghanistan are entitled to live in reach its destination. 4,000 ANSF and honour and dignity and will stay the ISAF troops were involved in the op- course to help them to have a normal eration, including UK, US, Canada, life,” he added. Denmark and Australia, providing se- “Despite the disruptive effort from curity to the convoy and dominating the insurgents, we achieved our goal the ground around it. and delivered the new turbine to Ka- The GIRoA supported project is one jaki Dam,” Major General Lessard part of the international community’s stated, “the insurgents efforts have effort towards redevelopment in the not been successful. They will not win Southern region, and has been funded and are not winning in the southern by the United States Agency for In- region.” ternational Development (USAID). GIRoA, assisted by their own forces This demonstrates the determination and ISAF, will rebuild the South and to support development and growth this operation is an excellent example in southern Afghanistan and demon- of the government strategy of strates GIRoA’s and ISAF’s long term work.
20 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 TF Uruzgan teach local shopowners successful business techniques ABUL, Afghanistan - Twelve to the market. learned that it is important to have just local shopowners successful- After the completion of their train- as much of a product that you can sell, Kly graduated from the course ing Major Paul, Commander of Mis- if you offer more product than is be- ‘start to improve your business’ which sion Team 3 of the PRT, presented ing asked by the market than you will took place in the Deh Rawod PRT. the certificates to the shopowners. He not be able to sell all your products, or During the course, which is con- stated that education is a main invest- even worse, get a lower price for it. ANSF and ISAF successfully ducted by Taskforce Uruzgan, the ment in the future and that the local More than 40 Afghans shopowners shopowners learned how to present businessmen learned important skills will attend the next training and offer their merchandise and how which they will use in the future. One course. deliver a new turbine to Kajaki Dam to adjust the supply of their products of the shopowners said that he has
The Kandahar Tourniquet: Keeping it simple abul, Afghanistan – A re- incidentally providing employment ficers and senior non-commissioned cent incident involving ANA for women in Kandahar Province. members — will have received a Kcaused the OMLT medical The result is the Kandahar Tour- Kandahar Tourniquet during their op- staff to take action to revise their first niquet: a length of nylon webbing erational first aid refresher course. aid refresher training program. The with two loops sewn into it. Wrap it Another batch of 1,800 tourniquets first priority was to improve soldiers’ around the limb above the wound, in- has been delivered to the 3rd Bri- chances of surviving serious injuries sert a section of C-7 rifle cleaning rod gade, 205 Corps, where the mentors with massive hemorrhage, so the through the loops and twist. are British, with 2,000 more on order OMLT also developed a comprehen- The initial production run of 100 funded by Regional Command South. sive plan to promote the use of tourni- tourniquets was introduced into the The Mentoring Team at the ANA quets in the 1st Brigade. first aid training program and was Training Command Lessons Learned A tourniquet is a simple, easily ap- completed by the next infantry kandak Centre has plans to extend the tourni- plied device, and it doesn’t take long prepared for deployment. By mid-Ju- quet project throughout the ANA. to teach soldiers how to use it ef- ly, manufacturers had produced 5,000 The revised operational first aid fectively. After reviewing what was tourniquets with complementary in- training program now includes man- available to ISAF in Kandahar and structional fact sheets and posters, aging the scene of an incident, es- consulting a materials technician and and 1,800 tourniquets had been issued tablishing a casualty collection point a parachute rigger, the OMLT medics in ANA and ANP units with ISAF (CCP), triage of casualties, and selec- decided to design a simple tourniquet mentors. tion and security of helicopter landing that local manufacturers could pro- In September, 85 percent of the sites. duce from readily available materials, target recipients — 1st Brigade’s of-
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 21 Regional command west + Joint Afghan/American Surgery removes abdomen tumour
ourpekai is alive today because Tourpekai’s family grew desperate in a few weeks from starvation and of a joint Afghan/American when their daughter stopped eating malnutrition,” he said. Dr. McGraw Tsurgery at PRT Farah. or drinking, and cried out in constant and Dr. Rahmani took x-rays and United States Army Captain Patrick pain. “When the tumour was small she gave Tourpekai an ultrasound, which McGraw, a surgeon with the Forward could walk, talk and eat. But when showed a solid mass in her abdomen. Surgical Team at PRT Farah, removed the tumour enlarged the symptoms They knew they had to either de-bulk a tumour weighing close to 10 pounds increased: pain, trouble walking, trou- the tumour, or remove it entirely, since from the 10-year-old girl’s abdomen. ble sleeping. She could not roll on one it had filled all available abdominal He was assisted in this surgery by Dr. side, she could not bend over. She was space, and was constricting blood flow Hamid Rahmani and Aref, an anes- in severe pain. I had to hold her on my through her aorta. “Luckily, we were thetist, both from Farah Hospital. shoulder. As soon as I laid her down able to completely remove it,” says “That tumour weighed 10 percent of she would start crying because the tu- Captain McGraw. the girl’s body weight,” said Captain mour was too big,” said Tourpekai’s Following her lengthy surgery, McGraw. mother. The family began to search Tourpekai began eating and drinking, for help. They went and is recovering very well at the PRT to hospitals in Herat, medical centre. Her family rises at 3 and in Shindand, but am each morning to begin the long trip met with no success. to the PRT to see their daughter. “I was When they turned up compelled to bring her to PRT Farah at the gates to PRT to see what they could do for her. Now Farah, Captain Mc- she is quite fine. Now she is getting Graw knew he was healthy,” said Tourpekai’s mother. their final chance. “If The tumour has been sent to Land- we didn’t do some- stuhl Regional Medical Center in Ger- thing to help her out many for further studies. she would have died
22 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 success stories around afghanistan ISAF kicks off first United Through Reading Program Story by Petty Officer 1st Class David Hamilton, US Navy ISAF HQ PAO ABUL, AFGHANISTAN — Steve Mullens father of four read “Ru- ident Betty J. Mohlenbrock, M.Ed. ISAF servicemembers from dolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” along stated, “ÜTR has served over 346,000 Kthe International Security As- with a few other reading selections in people through four community out- sistance Force (ISAF), were eager to case he was not going to be home for reach programs with student and adult kick off the “United Through Read- the holidays. “My children are going volunteers contributing over 224,000 ing” (UTR) program Aug. 29 to allow to be so surprised when they get this,” hours from the corporate, social serv- deployed parents and children to stay said Mullens. “Hearing my voice and ice, and educational sectors.” connected in a meaningful way. especially seeing me reassures them Little and the many volunteers that UTR is a non-profit public benefit that I am safe over here.” help run the program understand the organization. The vision of the pro- UTR has given Mullens and his limited amount of time servicemem- gram is to allow all children to feel the family an opportunity to stay connect- bers have and the importance of being security of caring family relationships ed while being deployed. “My wife flexible when it comes to setting up and develop a love of reading through and I understand the significance of reading sessions. “We have sessions the read-aloud experience. reading to our children,” said Mullens. four days a week,” said Littles. “Serv- Sponsored by the Family Literacy “We have been reading to our children icemembers can either schedule an ap- Foundation, UTR allows deployed since infancy.” pointment or walk in.” servicemembers to read books to their According to U.S. Navy Storekeeper U.S. Air Force Sergeant Andy Best children on videotape or DVD, and 1st Class Lamont Littles, UTR coordi- read a story familiar to his three mail them home. The program is a nator, the program is off to a produc- daughters, “Good Night Sweet But- “win win” situation for both parents tive start. terfly.” Just as he does at home, Best and children, boosting family morale “My role as the coordinator of UTR read with expression, animating the and reinforcing parental support felt by is to ensure all deployed members bus and insect characters in the story the spouse at home. The servicemem- are given the opportunity to recon- as he was being video taped. bers are videotaped reading the books nect with their families back home “I love reading to my children, add- and then the DVD is sent back home and what better way to do that than ing all the expressions from the story,” so the children can follow along. through reading to a loved one.” said Best. “It makes reading fun and U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant Founded in 1989, Founder and Pres- not a chore. When they get the DVD at home, they will be able to see me, hear me and hopefully it will feel as though daddy is right there in the room with them.” When away from family for three, six, or twelve months, it is often hard for soldiers to connect or stay involved with their loved ones. Through UTR, fears about the par- ent’s absence are eased. I email and talk on the phone with my family a few times a week, but it is not the same as physically being there,” said Best. “UTR is the next best thing, allowing me even more of an opportunity to actively stay in- volved with my family.” This is ISAF’s first official UTR program in Afghanistan.
www.nato.int/isaf ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008 23 24 ISAF MIRROR SEPTEMBER 2008