NATO force modernization sets sights on future

MARCH 2009 ANSF cooperation pg 5 Cover photo by Sgt. Michael Armstrong Contents Freedom Watch Staff March 2009

Commander, 40th Public Affairs Det. Army Maj. Mark Lastoria 40th PAD NCOIC Prison guards Army Sgt. Michael Armstrong learn tactics from Editor/Print NCO 6 servicemembers Army Cpl. John Zumer

Layout Editor Army Pfc. Derek Kuhn

Associate Layout Editor Army Spc. Borris Shiloff

Staff Writer Army Pfc. Kimberley Cole 14 Staff Writer Army Pv2. Cody Thompson Afghan infant saved Associate Staff Writer Army Pfc. Rachelle Cornwell

The Freedom Watch magazine is a monthly publication of the 40th PAD and Combined Joint Task Force 101. Commander, CJTF-101 18 Army Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser

Public Affairs Director, CJTF-101 Road opens in Konar Army Lt. Col. Rumi Nielson-Green

Freedom Watch, a U.S. Department of Defense publication, is published the first Monday of every month by the 40th PAD located in Bldg. 815 F, Camp Dragon Village at Bagram Army Air Field, Afghani- stan. Printed circulation is 10,000 copies per month. In accordance with DoD Instruction 5120.4, this DoD magazine is an authorized publication for members of 21 the U.S. military overseas. Contents of the Freedom Watch are not necessarily the official view of, or en- dorsed by, the U.S. government or the Department of Chosin on the ground, Defense. Soldiers ready for action All submissions are subject to editing by the 40th PAD, which can be reached at DSN 318-481-6367 or via email at [email protected]. 23 soldiers receive new weap- ons and training as part of NATO force modernization

Cover photo photo by Sgt.by Sgt.Michael Michael Armstrong Armstrong A Polish helicopter departs FOB Thunder as Sol- diers and Afghan Border Police return from an Afghan 1 National Security Forces mission. NEWS in Norwegians repair vital Afghan well Courtesy Article by ISAF , Afghanistan (Feb. 07) - well’s surrounding Clean water is one of the main foun- villages to drink out dations of every civilization. People of a small local river, need water for drinking, cooking and which is unsanitary. cleaning; something that many west- An 18-year-old ern countries take for granted. Afghan man, who International Security Assistance spoke English, said Force (ISAF) soldiers along with the that he and all of the Norwegian Support Element and the villagers are thankful Norwegian Operational Mentor and for ISAF and appre- Liaison Team repaired a broken well ciate the Norwegians in Mazar-e-Sharif, Feb. 4. for repairing their “We came here to do repairs on the well and giving them valves and weld the pipes,” said 1st clean drinking water. Courtesy Photo by ISAF Lt. Kenny Hansen, Transport Officer. “The well is very International Security Assistance Force soldiers with the Norwe- “The way it is now, I hope everybody important to us be- gian Support Element and the Norwegian Operational Mentor and can go to the well, fill their buckets cause the water that Liason Team repair a broken well in Mazar-e-Sharif, Feb. 4. and go to their house to boil and drink we use is not mineral is very important to us, we appreci- their water,” he added. water and it is very bad for us and the ate it.” The well broke approximately children,” he said. “We are very glad to Lieutenant Hansen said he is glad three weeks ago, forcing over 800 lo- have ISAF here and they are truly trying the Afghans in the village will have cal Afghan families from two of the to help my people, and this water supply clean water for everyday use.

German forces provide jobs to local Afghans Courtesy Article by ISAF One of the Afghan construction work- KABUL, Afghanistan ers said he and all of his colleagues are (Feb. 06) - The German grateful for their jobs on base. armed forces employ ap- “We are all very happy working here, proximately 400 local Af- the money is good,” said the worker. ghan nationals everyday “There are a lot of workers in Mazar- on Forward Support Base e-Sharif who need jobs. I would like to (FSB) Camp Marmal, thank ISAF for giving the poor people helping to keep the base jobs. I hope our country and economy going and boost the local will get better. economy. “We have economy problems from The Afghan work- three decades of war and we have lost ers provide construction everything,” he added. “We just want a work, interpretation, ve- Courtesy Photo by ISAF Camp Marmal, Afghanistan - A Local Afghan does con- job, so we can have money and provide hicle repair, furniture mov- struction work, Feb. 3. The German Armed Forces employ food to our children.” ing, cleaning and other odd approximately 400 local Afghan nationals on Forward Sup- The Germans are helping the Inter- jobs. port Base (FSB) Camp Marmal, helping to keep the base going and boost the local economy. national Security Assistance Force by “We need them, other- assisting the Afghan government in ex- wise we would need more “They do a good job and are great work- tending and exercising its authority and soldiers,” said Capt. Lars Hogenkamp, ers. They are on time and are very reli- influence across the country, creating the German Field Administration Office able. They want to know everything and conditions for stabilization and recon- manager and native of Jever, Germany. they learn fast.” struction. 2 Recycling program starts at Laghman outpost Story by Spc. Brandon Sandefur AIRFIELD, Afghani- side of the dining facility and made re- als are separated all over the FOB. stan (Feb. 09) — A recycling program ceptacles for plastic, cans and trash.” There is a noticeable difference in aimed to improve air quality and reduce Many things had to happen for the re- the air quality and the cleanliness of trash began recently at Forward Operat- cycling program to begin, though. Sepa- the FOB. The trash at the trash pit has ing Base Mehtar Lam, in Laghman prov- ration of trash and constructing labelled greatly reduced and you see a good ince, Afghanistan. bins for where things went was one of number of Soldiers, Marines and Air- Army Capt. Ryan Burrus, Headquar- the first steps to get the program started. men running on the track. ters and Headquarters Company com- Afghans on the FOB also took part in the Burrus explained how the FOB has mander for 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry program. The field sanitation team along improved to 30 percent of recycling of the Illinois National Guard, got the with the interpreters made stencils for material versus the zero percent they idea to start a recycling program the mo- plastic, cans, paper and trash in English were at before. ment he stepped onto FOB Mehtar Lam and to paint onto the trash bins. "We’re headed in the right direction and noticed the amount of trash, general In addition, the battalion surgeon and and we can’t go 100 percent in a day,” waste and increased level of pollution. Burrus experimented with what it actu- Burrus said. “I hope that everyone gets “I then began to brainstorm to see ally took to burn up all the trash in the with the message on the importance of how we could limit the trash on the FOB trash pit. The incinerator on the FOB recycling,” said Burrus. and burn only trash and not things that was not being actively used so to reduce The recycling efforts are paying off could be recycled,” said Burrus, St. Lou- smoke from the burn pit they began us- on the FOB with hopes for continued is, Mo. native. ing the incinerator to burn trash. success. Upon his initial assessment, Burrus “The air quality is much better on the “One of my duties here is the FOB began to formulate a plan on how to in- FOB now verses when we first arrived Mayor, so making the FOB better is corporate recycling into the daily rou- here,” Burrus said. “There is almost no an important part of that,” said Bur- tine. visible smoke in the air now and people rus. Things like building Hesco barri- “I got with the FOB carpenter, who can actually run around the track here.” ers, running constantia wire and con- is a National Guard Soldier and a union Along with Burrus, Sgt. 1st Class structing guard towers are important, carpenter on the civilian side, the Field Donald Holland, Kellogg Brown Root but finding ways to limit the amount of Sanitation Team and the battalion sur- and the FOB Carpenter are building trash on a FOB improves the FOB qual- geon to brainstorm ideas,” Burrus said. trash points that will eventually be put ity and keeps it operational for a longer “The carpenter rebuilt the trash bins out- up to ensure trash and recyclable materi- period of time.”

3 NEWS in Afghanistan Afghan prison guards receive training in Panjshir

Tech Sgt. Charles Lambe of the PRT Panjshir security forces and Master Sgt. Blue Rowe of the PRT Panjshir civil affairs team instruct Dashtak Prison confinement guards in riot control. Story and Photo By Maj. Kimberly Garbett they lack is equipment necessary to do the job,” said Lam- Task Force Warrior Public Affairs be. PANJSHIR VALLEY, Afghanistan -- Approximately 25 of Pan- “They also do not have a prison for women, nor a juve- jshir Valley Ministry of Justice’s confinement guards and district nile detention facility, which is something the PMJ hopes training officers from four of Panjshir’s seven districts crowded in to work on developing; plans,” said Rowe. the Dashtak Prison to partner with the Panjshir Provincial Recon- The goal in partnering with the Dashtak prison guards is struction Team security forces members in cell extraction tech- to provide needed training, be a liaison and ultimately, be niques and riot control training and drills, Thursday, Jan. 29. good neighbors, said Rowe. The Dashtak Prison is the only prison in Panjshir Valley and is Qurban Muhammed, Dashtak Prison lead training offi- filled to capacity, holding approximately 54 prisoners. cer, said, he is thrilled to have the PRT and US Forces here “The first step in how to quell a riot,” said Tech. Sgt. Charles for training. It will prove extremely valuable and success- Lambe, Panjshir PRT security forces NCOIC. “You need to have ful. teams with members trained and roles pre-determined and re- Abdul Habib, training officer for the Paryan detaining hearsed before a riot commences.” facility, mentioned he is “grateful for the PRT coming to If your team knows what they are doing, the chance for suc- train them at Dashtak District so that we can do our best to cess increases, added Senior Airmen Wade Lamb, Panjshir PRT improve our methods, training and techniques at our facili- security forces member. ties in each of our districts around the province; it allows “This is the first time a PRT has partnered with the prison guards us to increase our security and governance abilities across and trainers at Dashtak,” said Master Sgt Blue Rowe, Panjshir the Panjshir Province.” PRT civil-military affairs NCOIC. According to Mr. Tom Kelsey, Panjshir PRT director, “It’s obvious the guards have had some prior training, but what “They continue to lead the way in Afghanistan” 4 Afghan prison guards receive training in Panjshir Afghans hold N2KL Joint Security Conference Story and Photo by Maj. Chevelle Thom- tance of bringing additional troops into power of the people and the Afghan gov- as, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO the area to protect the more than 250 ernment. If we fulfill our promise then miles of border between Afghanistan security will come.” BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghani- and . Most of the leadership seem to echo stan (Feb. 6) — Members of the Afghan The TF Duke commander also spoke the theme that where development comes government, security leadership and In- about the new 700 US Soldiers partner- security is improved dramatically. ternational Security Assistance Forces ing with ANSF, mostly in the Konar bor- “I am requesting all of the respective from Nangarhar, Nuristan, Konar and der areas. governors help us with roads, clinics Laghman met at the Nangarhar gover- “We listened to Governor Wahidi’s and schools for things along the border. nor’s compound Feb. 2, to conduct the concerns and recommendations, and the I think that if the people have access to N2KL Joint Security Conference. new forces will focus on interdiction of those services, it will decrease security The purpose was to create a forum the border,” said Spiszer. concerns down to 50 percent,” said Brig. where leaders across all provinces could In addition to ISAF increases, the lo- Gen. Mohammad Zaman Mamuzai, Af- gather monthly to share information cal ANSF is also growing in number. All ghan Border Police commander. and ideas on how to improve security in four provincial governors and security ISAF utilizes the Commander’s N2KL. leadership emphasized this need. Emergency Response Program to assist “It is my goal to use this session to “Shortage of personnel will create the people with economic development kick start and help work on the govern- some delays in reacting to specific mis- as a part of its overall counterinsurgency ment’s priorities and develop better co- sions or threats,” said Col. Mohammed plan to transform the environment. operation as we build and empower the Avzal, ANA Brigade commander. Many considered the conference to regions new Operational Coordination The governors also spoke of the peo- be a great success and a testament to the Center-Regional,” said U.S. Army Col ple’s tolerance of enemy activity. positive relationship between Afghan John Spiszer, Task Force Duke, 3rd Bri- “We need to create an environment and ISAF leadership. gade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Divi- where the people do not let the insur- “The government and the Coalition sion commander. gency use their [homes and villages] to should have close relationships that pro- The OCC-R is standing up in Jalala- attack the Coalition Forces. To support vide jobs, support education, pay special bad and will be commanded by Afghan government projects, we need to ask the attention to intelligence, rule of law, and National Army Maj. Gen. Abdul Zia. people where their priorities are,” said increases in ABP and ANA soldiers,” While talking about security in N2KL, Jumaluddin Badr, Nuristan Provincial Gul Agha Sherzai, the Konar governor stressed the impor- governor. “We must not undermine the said.

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (Feb. 6) — Nangarhar Governor, Agha Sherzai along with members of the Afghan National Army, Af- ghan Border Police and the Afghan Uniform Police discuss and listen to various topics on how to improve security within N2KL. 5 NEWS in Afghanistan Ceremony marks 20th anniversary of Soviet exit By Air Force Capt. Dustin Hart “We Mujahedeen have to be united Team commander. 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO, Nangarhar PRT and work together now for the bright fu- “Despite facing overwhelming odds, NANGARHAR PROVINCE, Af- ture of all Afghan people,” he said. the Afghan people showed their incred- ghanistan (Feb. 19) -- The Nangarhar In addition to Sherzai, several other ible strength by forcing the Soviet su- Provincial governor hosted more than government officials including Provin- perpower out of Afghanistan,” he said. 200 guests during a celebration mark- cial Council Chairman Fazel Hadi Mus- “They continue to show the same strength ing the 20th anniversary of the Soviet limyar, shared stories from the war and and dedication today in their fight for a Union’s withdrawal from Afghanistan, thanked the U.S. government for helping safe, stable and free nation and a brighter Feb. 14 at his palace in Jalalabad. the Afghan people during the difficult future for their children.” Governor Gul Agha Sherzai celebrat- period. Getting the opportunity to share in ed the event with approximately 200 The Soviet-Afghan War began in 1979 the celebration was an incredible expe- people, including Afghan government when Soviet troops invaded the country rience, said Michael Sears, the Depart- officials, former Afghan Mujahedeen to install a new pro-Soviet leader and ment of State representative to the PRT. commanders and Coalition forces part- put down a growing uprising against “Celebrating the anniversary along- ners. Communist rule. When the last forces side the Mujahedeen heroes who defeat- Governor Sherzai spoke of the brav- departed Afghanistan on Feb. 15, 1989, ed the Soviet occupation was an honor,” ery of the Afghan fighters during their almost 15,000 Soviets and more than 1 said Sears. “Few people on Earth did nine-year war with the Soviet Union and million Afghans had been killed. more to bring down the Soviet Union- added thanks to the United States and It’s important for a nation to take time one of the most vicious governments in international partners for their assistance to remember the sacrifices made, blood history- than these Afghan veterans.” in defeating the Soviets. The governor spilled, and lives lost by its warriors, The U.S. assisted Afghanistan in their also spoke of the role Mujahedeen play said Air Force Lt. Col. Steve Cabosky, struggle against the Soviets because of in Afghanistan’s future. Nangarhar Provincial Reconstruction the shared ideal of freedom, he added.

Afghan contractors meet, bid on Jabal Saraj Power Plant project By Capt. Jonathan Merrill ghanistan, said Col. Scott A. Spellmon, Civil Affairs Team leader, who helped Task Force Warrior Public Affairs Office TF Warrior’s commander. TF Warrior is coordinate the pre-bid meeting. BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghani- the headquarters for TF Gladiator. Siawash, who works with TF stan (Feb. 19) — The Minister of Water “Constructed by American A.C. Gladiator as an engineer and cultural and Energy, Hamyoon Kohastani, Task Jewitt from 1911-1918, the turbines advisor, described the meeting as a Force Gladiator Civil Affairs Team and and materials for this hydro-electric success. Afghan engineer, Anwar Siawash, met plant were hauled over the Hindu Kush “There was a very good turnout, and with more than 30 local contractors Mountains by elephant carts. Today, its this prevents any misunderstandings interested in bidding on the refurbish- two general electric turbines still provide between the contractors and TF ment of the Jabal Saraj Power Plant, electrical power to the people of Jabul Gladiator of what we expect for the Feb. 15, in Charikar, Jabal Saraj Dis- Saraj. We are excited and proud to restore refurbishment of this power plant,” he trict, Parwan province. this power plant to its original capacity,” said. The Jabal Saraj Power Plant’s tur- Spellmon said. Local contractor, Abau Shkoor, bine generators have dropped electrical Over the course of three hours, commented as he left the power plant output dramatically after more than 90 Kohastani and Siawash explained grounds, “This will be a great benefit years of use. expectations, answered questions and for our country and our people…to This facility represents one of the led a brief tour of the plant, said Army have local companies bid on and reha- United States’ early investments in Af- Capt. Bonitto Housen, TF Gladiator bilitate this power plant.”

6 Army Engineers teach contractors to build school Story By Spc. Brandon Sandefur Stratton said. “We also assisted them in tical exercise to show them what not to 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO the basics of bricklaying and masonry do,” Stratton said. “They’ve learned JALALABAD AIRFIELD, Afghani- work.” these bricklaying skills from their father stan (Feb. 13) —Members of the Army’s Some of the basics Martin and Strat- so it’s hard to get them to switch to the Corps of Engineers recently taught, men- ton taught the Afghan contractors, in ideas of a total stranger.” tored and monitored local Afghan con- addition to laying the brick, was how Stratton has a lot of experience in tractors to ensure the construction of a to mix the mortar. Teaching them how Afghanistan teaching his skills. This is new school in the of to do things a different way from how his 5th trip to the country and he notes Afghanistan will last through the harsh they’ve been doing it in the past was a that the quality of construction he sees climate for years to come. challenge, but it was necessary to get has improved greatly. Bill Stratton and Bill Martin, both them to do quality construction. “The quality of work on my first natives of Kennewick, Wash., recently “We taught them how to mix mor- deployment to Mehtar Lam was pretty assisted Afghan contractors on a project tar, the difference between mortar for poor,” Stratton said. “Statements of called the Center of Excellence, which is stone versus mortar for brick,” Stratton work didn’t hold the contractor to the a school for 5 through 15-year-olds. The said. “They did not know there was a standards they now do. The quality of project was done by Afghan contractors difference before we showed them, so construction is much better now and after some instruction to show them the they now have better quality in their con- statements of work are 15-20 pages with proper way to build a lasting building. struction.” detailed explanation of the work to be “We mentor the contractor on brick- The students were taught through be- done and the technical requirements.” laying and how to do a basic design for ing shown how to do it right and shown Teaching Afghan contractors to do a building,” Stratton said. “We had a what happens when you do it wrong so this is important to the stabilization so bricklaying class here at [Forward Oper- they learn to trust the skills and knowl- they can eventually do it on their own. ating Base Mehtar Lam]; we had a prac- edge of the teachers. With help from the Army’s Corps of En- tical exercise and we visited the jobsite,” “I made some mistakes in the prac- gineers they are well on their way. Konar province improves health care with polio vaccinations Story by Navy Lt. j.g. James Dietle routine basis," Hupp said. 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO, Konar PRT Several ambulances were provided by groups including KONAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan (Jan. 25) — With the Aide Medicale Internationale (AMI) and PRT Konar. help of the Konar Provincial Reconstruction Team, the govern- However, the ambulances of the local government are lim- ment of Konar province began an extensive vaccination drive ited by the infrastructure. Modern health care professionals are targeting polio. also difficult to train in this area. These factors have slowed Although vaccinations of the polio virus are common and the implementation of vaccination programs until now. have been very successful throughout established nations, Ko- With plans to contract pack animals to reach remote areas, nar’s developing health services, road quality, and regional volunteers are aiming to distribute the vaccine to the most se- conflicts have all created an environment that makes it chal- cluded areas in the province. lenging to administer the vaccine. “Where we cannot go we will take animals and walk” stated The Konar PRT has used millions from the Commanders Sayeed Wahidi, Konar Provisional Governor. Emergency Response Program to build and enhance infrastruc- “The vaccine should reach over 130,000 children across the ture, which is a step to getting better health care, said Capt. province,” said Doctor Sayed Ameem Fatimi, Konar’s Public George Hupp, Konar PRT Civil Affairs. Health Minister. The oral polio vaccine was provided by Afghanistan’s Min- Local officials are hoping this will be enough to vaccinate istry of Public Health. every child under the age of five across the region in two “These vaccinations will prohibit the people from several months. diseases that can be life threatening. Not only have we worked “This will only be the beginning, as I plan to get children on this with roads, but we have also contributed money to at- and adults more vaccinations for more diseases such as hepa- taining medical ambulances for servicing the people on a more titis and tuberculosis,” said Fatimi. 7 NEWS in Afghanistan Village receives new place of worship mosque opens in Kapisa province

Kapisa Governor Abu Baker, Deputy Governor Haji Safi, and Provincial Council Chairman Dr. Monawar cut the ribbon during a celebra- tion on Feb. 6 for the opening of a new mosque in Landokehl Village, Tabag District, Kapisa Province. Story and Photo by 1st Lt. Lory Stevens French Task Force Tiger at the request every local Afghan leader was present Task Force Warrior Public Affairs of the village elders,” said Kapisa and in a unified show of support behind the BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan Parwan PRT Civil Affairs Staff Sgt. mosque opening. (Feb. 6)— Governor Khuweja Abubaker, Felipe Perez, explaining how villagers “We are gathered in a place of peace Tagab District Police Chief Colonel desired a place to study the true and and worship to show the enemies of Zarawar, local officials, elders and a peaceful Islam without the influence of Afghanistan that the people will not be crowd of approximately 50 Afghans the insurgency which uses Islam for their deterred from providing a safe and secure gathered in Landokhel Village of Tag Ab own purposes. future for our children,” said Governor District, Kapisa Province, on Feb. 6 for The mosque will serve approximately Abu Baker. a ribbon cutting ceremony at a recently 400 local villagers in the Tagab Valley. Prayer rugs were passed out to refurbished mosque. French ground forces, the Afghan approximately 40 local nationals in “The mosque was refurbished by Police and Army, the US PRT, and attendance. 8 2-2 trains ANA soldiers for future missions Story and Photos by platoon sergeant. Tech Sgt. Jill LaVoie Today’s training was more 2-2 INF, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO than improving our allies’ BAGRAM AIR FIELD, infantry skills. It was about the Afghanistan (Feb. 22) —Soldiers next step for the Afghan military, from the 2nd Battalion, 2nd he added. Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade “We give them the initial Combat Team, 1st Infantry training and teach their NCOs Division, are improving the and leaders how to do it,” Adams Afghan National Army’s ability said. “Eventually they will be to respond to enemy activities able to train themselves without through various joint training having to be guided by us.” exercises at Combat Outpost The overall goal for the Pegasus. training is so the ANA soldiers Delta company Soldiers are won’t need the assistance of U.S. training local ANA soldiers on forces. basic infantry tactics, including “It’s the end state. We are basic rifle marksmanship, first training the ANA so they can aid, building clearing and how defend themselves and [be to react to enemy contact. able to handle enemy activities “I requested this training better],” said 1st Lt. David Ochs, because it’s good for the soldiers. of Charlottesville, Va. “We are Many forget some of the skills training them to replace us.” because they don’t have the Though the construction on opportunity to train that often,” their post hasn’t begun yet, the said Afghan Army Capt. Abul ANA remain motivated and Salami, a company commander willing to receive the advanced from 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, training. 205th Corps. “These guys are extremely Most of the soldiers have motivated and live in harsh received about five months conditions – worse than our of training prior to the basic Soldiers. The least we can do is rifleman marksmanship class, give them some good training but for some it was their first and help them be at a better state training experience. of readiness,” said Capt. Michael “Many of them displayed Soyka, Company D commander. infantryman skills, such as a “Training of the ANA is the most good sight picture and sight important mission we have out alignment – essential keys to here. It gets them ready to take being a skilled marksman,” our job and let this country stand said Staff Sgt. Jeffery Adams, a on its own.”

Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Bri- gade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division instruct ANA Soldiers on basic rifle marksmanship. The instruction the ANA Soldiers are re- ceiving will allow them to respond to enemy activity better.

9 NEWS in Afghanistan Czech PRT trains farmers in Logar province to harvest greater yields, greater profits Courtesy Story as well as new products. “The agri- training includes the issues of mar- POL-E ALAM, Afghanistan (Feb. culture in Logar has been affected keting, management and the basics 21)– The Czech Republic-led Provin- by many problems. For example, of accounting. cial Reconstruction Team in Logar we miss seeds in good quality, water The agriculture development is province has launched a new project for irrigation, but also education and one of the Czech PRT's priorities, with the aim of supporting local agri- marketing skills,” Hadji Ghulam, one while it presents the main livelihood cultural cooperatives. of the participants said. “The coop- manner in Logar. The most of farm- The one-week training will help eratives are good way for us – in the steadings are still based on the family them in gaining high profits and shar- group of more people we are stronger principles, but cooperatives are more ing ideas and information. and we can sell our products more ef- and more common. They produce In Logar Province, more than 50 fectively. I believe this training will mainly fruits, vegetables and wheat, agricultural cooperatives were estab- help us to share the information and which are sold to Kabul, Pakistan or lished in recent years. The coalitions to get known more about the man- to Middle East countries. of farmers present many advantages agement of our cooperatives.“ The Czech PRT consisting of nine for its members, as easier gaining The project is 225 farmers from civilian experts and 275 soldiers as- a bank credit or the state loan. Nev- all Logar cooperatives, who will sists the people of Logar from March ertheless, not all of them are well be trained by three Afghan experts 2008. Support of education, health, known about all those possibilities. and share the knowledge with their water and irrigation projects and The one-week marketing training fellows. Therefore, the impact of good governance and justice are the will help them in the process of of- project will reach more than 6’200 priorities of the Czech PRT besides fer and distribution their traditional people from whole province. The agriculture projects.

Task Force Duke promotes Afghan rule of law in N2KL Story by Pfc. Charles Wolfe [Nangarhar, Nuristan, Konar, and Lagh- “It’s kind of a law that’s been devel- 3rd BCT, 1st ID, Public Affairs Office man provinces],” said Capt. Michael oped over years in that tribe, so there’s BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan Vincent, TF Duke’s Deputy Judge Ad- vast differences from tribe to tribe and (Feb. 19) — As part of an effort to vocate. region to region,” said Master Sgt. Tim- improve governance and promote legal Afghan Rule of Law dictates crimes othy Conner, TF Duke, senior paralegal. awareness throughout Afghanistan, and punishments, but also requires ac- Communication efforts across the legal personnel from 3rd Brigade tion within a system some natives may country as the brigade tries to educate Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, question. Instead, many Afghans turn to Afghans about using their legal system. are encouraging recognition of a court “,” a system of tribal law. The 1st Inf. Div. Soldiers employ a num- system and a universal set of laws. “The Afghan people, particularly ber of outlets to get publicity for their Reports of legal disputes in the dis- at the tribal level, are holding onto the cause including advertisements, news trict have nearly ceased, however, il- system of settling disputes of all kinds article, and word of mouth. legal activities continue. The apparent through the tribal elder system. They The publications, meetings, and pro- deficiency prompted Abdul Qayoum, view it as quicker and more enforceable grams are part of a large effort to bridge Nangarhar’s provincial prosecutor, to than what they perceive the formal sys- the government to its constituents, allow- ask the brigade’s legal team for assis- tem can do,” Vincent said. ing the citizens of Afghanistan to solve tance. However, because of the many tribal their disputes in a peaceful fashion. “Part of our responsibility as Task differences, the lack of a universal legal The goal is to give Afghans confi- Force Duke’s legal team is to promote system can lead to deliberation over ap- dence in their government’s ability to the Rule of Law throughout N2KL propriate punishments. enforce society’s laws, Vincent said. 10 Guryak truck bridge fosters brotherhood in Konar

Officials from the Konar Government are the first to drive a truck over the Guryakruck T Bridge, Feb. 17. Story and Photo by Navy Lt. j.g. James the need for a truck bridge and asked close to the river, which forms a natu- Dietle, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO PRT Konar to help them reach their goal. ral division between groups of villages, BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan With the Guryak Truck Bridge officially said Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Jer- (Feb. 20) — The official opening of the opened, all their work has paid off. emiah Vandermark, PRT Konar engi- 280 meter Guryak Truck Bridge, con- Governor Wahidi stated during the neering staff. Some would say that the necting the districts of Noor Gul and ceremony, “The reason reconstruction villages on the eastern side of the river Khas Kunar, took place, Feb. 17. is going so well in Konar is because the have more in common with Pakistan Sayed Fazlullah Wahidi, governor of PDC gets everyone’s input. If everyone than with their Konar brothers. This Konar province, has been working with is in agreement, there isn’t a problem.” bridge allows the people of Konar to the Konar Provincial Reconstruction The Konar River provides water unite together to form a more cohesive Team for the past year to complete the for the local people and irrigation for government. truck bridge for Konar province. their crops. However, it also forms a More than 200 villagers from sur- District governors, village elders, and substantial barrier dividing the Konar rounding areas came to see the open- Governor Wahidi worked through a pro- River Valley into east and west. ing ceremony. Governor Wahidi and cess called the Provisional Development The bridge allows Afghan National other government officials were joined Council to build the $1.7 million bridge. Police and Afghan National Army per- by members from PRT Konar to give Traditionally, Afghans conduct sonnel to quickly respond in the area. speeches and to cut the ribbon officially Shuras, a community meeting, to discuss Many of the same transportation prob- opening the bridge to traffic. A ceremo- common interests. In Konar province the lems that face villagers also face Afghan nial truck displaying the colors of Af- PDC is a formalized version of the suc- Security Forces in the region. ghanistan took the government officials cessful Shura process. The situation in Konar is unique. The of Konar across the bridge to officially Over a year ago, the PDC agreed on Pakistan and Afghanistan border is very open it for public use. 11 Soldiers save infant girl By: Pfc. Christina Sinders “She was in a lot of pain and BAGRAM AIR FIELD, the only real thing we had to Afghanistan (Feb. 4) – A give her was children’s Tylenol,” joint effort between Soldiers said McGee, a Louisville, Ill. with the Afghan National native. “We tried to make her as Police Mentor Team out of comfortable as possible, but she Forward Operating Base was hurting.” Wilderness and the Salerno Task Force Currahee head- Combat Support Hospital quarters was contacted and soon saved the life of a 9-month a MEDEVAC transported the old Afghan girl from Paktya girl, some of her family to FOB Salerno, Khost province to the province. Salerno CSH located there. On a mission to a village The staff at the hospital had in the Gerda Serai District, already received photos of the Paktya province, the Soldiers little girl’s burns and the condi- of Troop C, 1st Squadron, tion she was in, and immediate- 61st Cavalry Regiment, ly set up a treatment regimen. Task Force Currahee and She received skin grafts to the Wilderness PMT were the bottom of her feet, and af- approached by an older man ter a more thorough inspection, who begged for medical the doctors were relieved to find help for his granddaughter. only 2nd degree burns. She re- The man was from a nearby ceived several baths and a thor- village and the medics ough debridement, where the informed him to bring the charred skin was removed or girl to their base and they washed away. would provide the medical After the girl left FOB attention. Wilderness, Spc. Jenna Seward, Three weeks later, the man A 9-month old Afghan girl receives emergency medical treat- a medic with Company C, 801st brought his severely burned ment for serious burns at the Salerno Combat Support Hospital, Brigade Support Battalion, who 9-month old Afghan grand- Khost province, after being Medevaced from FOB Wilderness, Paktya province. works at the hospital, passed daughter to the base. Illinois on updates and information to National Guard medic, Sgt. her husband, Spc. Christopher Benjamin Sleaford, attached Seward, also a medic stationed to Troop C, and Sgt. Dylan McGee, and The medics carefully began to cut the at FOB Wilderness. Seward and her Soldier with Troop C, took the girl to the gauze and clothing out of the burns as husband kept the Soldiers at FOB base aid station for evaluation. they tried to clean up the wounds. They Wilderness updated on the little girl’s “As we began examining her, we were evaluated her burns and immediately sent condition. shocked,” said Sleaford, a Geneseo, Ill. photos to the Salerno Combat Support A week after the girl was native. “She had severe burns over most Hospital in Khost province, for consult. MEDEVACed, Sleaford and McGee, of her skin from the buttocks down to the “We cleaned and treated her as well as stopped by the hospital to check on her. soles of her feet. At first we thought she we could,” said Sleaford. “But we’re just They held her, talked to her attending had 3rd degree burns and might lose toes an aid station, we don’t really have the doctors and nurses, and were greatly or even her legs.” means to treat the kind of burns she had. relieved that the burns were not as bad as The mother informed the Soldiers that She needed to go to a hospital.” they had originally believed they were. the little girl had rolled into a cooking fire The Soldiers on FOB Wilderness took The little girl, although bright-eyed and that she had taken the girl to an Afghan to the little girl immediately and began and doing well, will still face recovery medical clinic near their home. Her burns gathering money, food, baby wipes and time at the hospital, and then routine had been soaked in iodine and a thin lay- supplies to give the family to help care checkups will be scheduled for the girl er of gauze was wrapped around her feet. for the girl. at the FOB Wilderness Aid Station. 12 Airman’s deployment cultivates progress

Photo by Air Force Capt. Stacie Shafran Air Force Capt. Don Moss, Provincial Reconstruction Team Pak- tya’s intelligence officer, attended the Paktya Women’s and Children’s Day celebration at the Director of Human Rights compound in Gar- dez.

Story by Air Force Capt. Stacie Shafran to discuss security challenges and this districts and increase trade. Paktya Provincial Reconstruction Team effort has been rewarded through several “Afghan lives and governance are get- BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan instances where threats have been identi- ting better because of the U.S. military (Feb. 4) – For an intelligence officer with fied. members serving in Afghanistan. On a passion for Middle Eastern culture, be- “Meeting with the Mulwi is an ex- a day-to-day basis, there are people all ing deployed as part of a provincial re- tremely positive experience and we’re over Paktya who are experiencing posi- construction team is the experience of a all looking forward to fostering this rela- tive events that were foreign to them in lifetime. tionship and using it to benefit the lives the past under and Soviet rule,” Air Force Capt. Don Moss, from Scott of the people in Paktya,” said Moss. Moss said. Air Force Base’s Air Mobility Com- Moss has also been a driving force in As a graduate of the Arabic Special mand, Air Intelligence Squadron, Ill., is the Paktya District government outreach Projects Course at the Defense Lan- the chief of PRT Paktya’s intelligence program, which extends Afghan gover- guage Institute in Monterrey, Calif., section. His primary job is identifying nance throughout the province by facili- Moss understands the importance of be- and training his team about IEDs and tating key leader engagements between ing able to communicate with the people other threats to the unit. provincial, district and village level lead- his team works closest to. In an effort to The forward operating base he is lo- ers in remote districts. increase cultural understanding between cated just outside of Gardez City in Pak- “Paktya’s rural areas and the areas PRT members and the locals, Moss cre- tya province, approximately 45 miles least visited are those most at risk from ated a Pashto language course for his from the Pakistan border. the enemies of Afghanistan,” Moss said. colleagues. Moss is optimistic about the progress PRTs have become an integral part of “The ability to communicate is essen- he and his team can bring to Paktya. the long-term strategy to transform Af- tial for this team and truly enhances our He has cultivated a stronger relation- ghanistan. The Paktya PRT is focused on relationship with villagers throughout ship between the PRT and the Mulwi or projects such as road construction that the province. We are fortunate to have senior religious leaders of the province. will connect people to the provincial in- so many opportunities to meet the unique The team meets regularly with the them frastructure, foster relationships between people of Afghanistan,” Moss said. 13 Cav. Scouts take on tough mission Story and Photo by Staff Sgt. David Logistics Patrol over watch, night pa- tional Army soldiers headed up a moun- Hopkins 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO trols, route recon.” tainside to set up a position with a view Recently, the 3rd Brigade Combat from above. BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan Team, 1st Infantry Division Soldiers As they scan the road, the valley and (Feb. 13) — Cavalry Scouts of Head- conducted a CLP over watch at one of the the hillsides, they watch cars and trucks, quarters and Headquarters Troop, 6th most frequently attacked locations along children playing in the small village, Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd the main road running through their area goat herders or any other movement for Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infan- of operations. They were called on to possible threat. They use binoculars, la- try Division, along with the Af- guard a convoy of supply trucks and mil- ser range-finders and the naked eye, and ghan National Army, perform reg- itary vehicles as they passed through the they watch and wait for the convoy to ular missions along the unpaved dangerous stretch to transport supplies to come through. roadways in the Konar province of out posts in the region. The scouts saw some suspicious signs northeastern Afghanistan. “CLP over watch missions are the along the road and on the mountain ridg- “We do about 20 to 25 missions hardest. They require the most com- es, but the mission went off without in- a month,” said Army Capt. Paul bat power and there are a lot of moving cident. The supplies were delivered and Roberts, HHT commander, an Al- parts,” Roberts said. no shots were fired. This is not always tus, Okla., native. “We do Combat The location the scouts were watch- the case for the cavalry scouts. They are ing has been attacked several times over frequently attacked and have to coun- the preceding months, including a large terattack. However, the scouts are well attack on a convoy last October wound- trained for such attacks and for the mis- ing four American service members in a sion, and they are gaining experience close-range ambush. with every operation they perform. During the latest mission, the scouts “I’m really proud of my guys,” Rob- sat on a plateau along the erts said. “They’ve been doing exactly river where they have a van- what I expect of Cavalry scouts. They tage point along the road, are out there all the time doing a tough while a group of Afghan Na- job.” The scouts’ leadership has many hopes for the future of their troop, but their main hope is for the Afghan Na- tional Security Forces. “My biggest hope for the future of the unit is for the ANSF guys,” Roberts said. “My hope is that all the ANSF guys get better and take on more responsibility, extending the face of the government, take the fight to the bad guys. Until then we’ll be there doing our job.”

14 Soldiers join together for self-help MWR project Story and Photos by Pfc. Derek L. Kuhn 40th Public Affairs Detachment BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (Feb. 13) – An all-volunteer construc- tion crew enhanced the living conditions at Forward Operating Base Lightning by constructing a Morale, Welfare and Rec- tough mission reation center made entirely of unwanted, recycled or unused material. tional Army soldiers headed up a moun- The new MWR center, which took ap- tainside to set up a position with a view proximately 30 days to construct, is com- from above. prised of three separate connex rooms As they scan the road, the valley and with a wooden deck connecting the three the hillsides, they watch cars and trucks, rooms. children playing in the small village, “’If you got lemons then you make goat herders or any other movement for lemonade’ has been for the most part possible threat. They use binoculars, la- mastered,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Members of the Forward Operating Base Lightning community enjoy a game of billards at ser range-finders and the naked eye, and John Prayer, FOB Lightning Command the Morale, Welfare and Recreation center. The MWR center is run entirely by volunteers. they watch and wait for the convoy to Sergeant Major. come through. Funds, however, were virtually nonex- The scouts saw some suspicious signs istent. Army Lt. Col. Jerome Harms, Se- stereo system. The material used to construct the center was along the road and on the mountain ridg- nior Surgical Nurse with Afghan Regional Security Integration obtained from across the base. es, but the mission went off without in- Command-East, turned to the FOB Lightning community and Items used for the project included unused, recycled or cident. The supplies were delivered and sought volunteers. The community responded overwhelmingly. unwanted material from around the FOB. no shots were fired. This is not always The sign-in room houses eight computers and has the capac- The volunteers of this group dedicated a very large amount the case for the cavalry scouts. They are ity to expand to a 16-computer room. of their personal time toward the project, said Harms. The frequently attacked and have to coun- The phone room has four phone lines that allow service mem- project also promoted team unity and will continue to en- terattack. However, the scouts are well bers to speak with friends and family. The room has the capac- courage a more family-like atmosphere, he added. trained for such attacks and for the mis- ity to add two more phone lines, with the possibility of adding Before the project started, the FOB Lightning community sion, and they are gaining experience standing phone booths. had been without Internet access or phone lines for around with every operation they perform. The third room is a game room containing a pool table and a two months. “I’m really proud of my guys,” Rob- erts said. “They’ve been doing exactly what I expect of Cavalry scouts. They are out there all the time doing a tough job.” The scouts’ leadership has many hopes for the future of their troop, but their main hope is for the Afghan Na- tional Security Forces. “My biggest hope for the future of the unit is for the ANSF guys,” Roberts said. “My hope is that all the ANSF guys get better and take on more responsibility, extending the face of the government, take the fight to the bad guys. Until then we’ll be there doing our job.”

15 Road opening paves way to success in Konar

16 Story and Photo by Staff Sgt. David Hopkins Command Sgt. Maj. James Carabello said. 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO “When we met with the elders they said they JALALABAD AIRFIELD, Afghanistan wanted two things: A new road and security (Feb. 15) --International Security Assistance by coalition forces during the construction. Forces announced the opening of an improved That valley has a great deal of potential and road and the closing of a combat outpost in we came through on our promise.” two separate ceremonies on Feb. 5 in the The opening of the road is important because Konar province of Afghanistan. it will allow the Afghan people the ability to After more than two years of construction take a larger role in their future and allow them on the road in the Deywagal valley, with the to better access to markets and commerce. combined efforts of the Unique Builders “Through the road we are providing the Construction Company, Konar Provincial people access to the government,” Carabello Reconstruction Team and the Provincial said. “This is a great success for the people of in Konar Afghanistan. It will also allow them to get to district governments, the road was built totaling $3.9 million. markets easier.” Navy Cmdr. Murray Tynch, PRT Konar Now that the road going through the valley commanding officer, spoke of the benefits is complete COP Seray is no longer necessary of the new road and how it will allow the in the area for protection and is being closed ability to provide security and basic medical down. care to remote areas of the province. Tynch “This was a huge success,” Maj. Kendall also emphasized how the road will decrease Clarke, executive officer for 1st Battalion, 26th the risk of Improvised Explosive Devices on Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, these routes and improve trade in and out of 1st Infantry Division, said. “We can hand over the rural areas. the road to the Afghan government and they The 11 kilometer road is ready for traffic and will have to continue with security in that area, the Combat Outpost Seray, which provided allowing us to focus on other areas.” security for the road construction crew, is no The completion of the road through the longer necessary, showing progress in the Deywagal valley is not the end of road work region. in the province and COP Seray will not go to “In the past you were only dreaming of the waste. The UBCC will take over the outpost road,” Sayed Fazlullah Wahidi, Governor of and will use it as they continue roadwork in Konar province, said. “Now we see it and the province. drive on it. We have all sacrificed for the road “The UBCC will continue construction and paid a high price. We paid this price for to connect the road to the Korengal Valley,” access to schools, hospitals and markets ” Clarke said. “Then what was a six-hour drive The original idea of improving the road will only take 30 minutes.” began when 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry ISAF is turning over direct security of Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, was in the the valley to the Afghan government, but area for Operation Enduring Freedom Seven 1-32 Inf., who has just returned to the Konar in 2006, and has come full circle now that they province, will continue to have a presence in are back to see the completion of the project. the province. The unit saw the need for development in the “We will be turning over security of the area and spoke with elders about what they road in that area to the government, but 1-32 wanted and needed. The road and COP were Inf. will continue giving support throughout the result. the Konar province,” said Clarke. “They will “We saw that it was an isolated valley and still be there to help as they continue making seemed to be very poor,” 1-32 Inf. Army progress in the province.”

17 Contractors Story and Photo by Pfc. Derek L. Kuhn teach 40th Public Affairs Detachment BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Af- ANA Sgt. First Class. ghanistan (Feb. 12) – Contrac- “They are very excited about tors from Military Professional the training and new equipment Afghan Resources Inc. have designed an fielding,” said Tasker. eight-week course to teach Af- However, Afghan soldiers ghan National Army soldiers how credit their instructors. Soldiers to drive, maintain and affectively “We have received very utilize up-armored humvees and good training,” said Nezay. light tactical vehicles in combat. “The mentors have very good The first five weeks of - train participation with us.” ing consist of familiarization and The instructors use driving. At the end of this period, demonstration as their primary the ANA have one of their sol- teaching tool. diers administer a driving exam “The most effective teaching to the trainees. technique with the ANA is The next three weeks are com- demonstration because of the posed of military procedures and cultural and language barrier,” maneuvers. The training culmi- said Grant. nates with a convoy live-fire ex- Tasker believes the real ercise which involves live rounds benefits will be realized after the being fired while maneuvering students return to their units. the vehicles. “One of the biggest challenges The instructors want to give we face is the language barrier,” the ANA the capability to be self- said Tasker. “But that is why I sufficient on the battlefield, said think the guys going back are Gregory Grant, a team leader for going to take it back to their one of the MPRI training teams. units and they’ll probably be Grant’s teammate concurred. more effective [teachers] because “It is so the ANA can provide they speak the language and it is better support for their country,” always easier to have your boss said Ted Tasker, an instructor for teach you.” MPRI. “We are building their fire Because of the training, Nezay support weapons systems, which and his comrades have received, are the vehicles with weapons the Afghan sergeant is optimistic mounted on them. A modern about his country’s future. army is better equipped to support “If the [entire] ANA gets train- themselves.” ing like we do here, we’ll have a Some have observed the very secure country,” said Nezay. Afghan soldier’s quick learning “We will have good future.” tempo. The instructors enjoy reflect- “They are really good when ing on the impact of their present they get their hands on the equip- actions. ment,” said Grant. “It’s rewarding,” said Tasker. Some attribute the ANA sol- “It is an historical opportunity for BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (February 02) – An Af- diers’ quick absorption of the our team to come out here and ghan National Army soldier familiarizes himself with a turret in curriculum to their attitude. an up-armored humvees. ANA soldiers are receiving training on assist the Afghan government in how to use the up-armored humvees by Military Professional “All of the soldiers enjoy the providing security for their coun- Resources Inc. at Forward Operating Base Thunder. training,” said Assnatullah Nezay, try.” 18 Clinic gives ‘Hope’ to Afghan village children Story and photo by Air Force Capt. Dustin ANA Sgt. First Class. Hart, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, Nangarhar PRT “They are very excited about NANGARHAR PROVINCE, Af- the training and new equipment ghanistan (Feb. 8) —Mina Wali, an fielding,” said Tasker. Afghan-American woman who has However, Afghan soldiers lived in the United States for 28 years, credit their instructors. returned to Afghanistan four years ago “We have received very to help bring a brighter future to the good training,” said Nezay. people here. “The mentors have very good Through her hard work, close participation with us.” relationships with the local villagers The instructors use of Sham Shapur and her relentless demonstration as their primary fund-raising efforts, she has personally teaching tool. brought education and healthcare to the “The most effective teaching rural village. technique with the ANA is In 2006, an Afghan school, Hope demonstration because of the of Mother, was completed and now cultural and language barrier,” educates approximately 400 students, said Grant. more than half being females. And on Tasker believes the real Feb. 4, two Hope of Mother schoolgirls benefits will be realized after the (From left) Surkh Rod District Subgovernor Said Ali Akbar, Army Maj. Gary Knoer, Nan- helped cut the ribbon signifying the students return to their units. garhar Provincial Reconstruction Team Civil Affairs team leader, and Mina Wali, director of Hope of Mother, cut the ribbon signifying the completion of the basic healthcare facility. “One of the biggest challenges Wali raised the funds and constructed the Hope of Mother school and clinic with the sup- we face is the language barrier,” port of the Surkh Rod government and local villagers. said Tasker. “But that is why I completion of the Hope of Mother clinic garhar Provincial Reconstruction Team think the guys going back are in Nangarhar’s Surkh Rod District. assists with reconstruction projects, such going to take it back to their “My hope and desire for everyone in as drinking wells, in Sham Shapur, and units and they’ll probably be this village was to make [these two fa- provides school supplies to the Hope of more effective [teachers] because cilities] a reality,” Wali said, during the Mother students, while developing a re- they speak the language and it is clinic ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Now lationship with the school and village. always easier to have your boss that desire has been met, and I couldn’t “Mina and the people of this vil- teach you.” be happier.” lage show the true Afghan spirit,” said Because of the training, Nezay During the ceremony, Said Ali Akbar, Maj. Gary Knoer, Nangarhar PRT Civil and his comrades have received, Surhk Rod sub-governor, thanked Wali Affairs team leader. “This clinic was the Afghan sergeant is optimistic for showing the “lamp of education” to Mina’s dream that she shared with the about his country’s future. the people of his district. village. Through the hard work of the “If the [entire] ANA gets train- “I’m proud to be part of the health and villagers and assistance from their gov- ing like we do here, we’ll have a education movement taking place here ernment, this became a reality.” very secure country,” said Nezay. and it’s my honor to be here today for Wali also credited the recent successes “We will have good future.” this event,” Akbar said. “Now, it is our to the dedication of the local villagers. The instructors enjoy reflect- responsibility to take care of this build- “All reconstruction you see here is ing on the impact of their present ing as if it is our own.” the work of these villagers,” she said. actions. Courtesy Photo With the completion of the new clinic, “These people volunteered their exper- “It’s rewarding,” said Tasker. Mina Wali presents a notebook to a student for scoring the highest exam students and villagers will have access to tise to do this work. “It is an historical opportunity for grade in his class, while Air Force Capt. immediate basic healthcare. “I want to prove to the international our team to come out here and Dustin Hart, Nangarhar Provincial Recon- Although the funding for Hope of community that these villages are safe assist the Afghan government in struction Team, watches on. The Hope of Mother projects comes from Wali’s in- for this type of reconstruction. It’s the providing security for their coun- Mother school educates more than 400 students. ternational fund-raising efforts, the Nan- people that make these places safe.” try.” 19 On Chosin ground... doing hands-on training with the incom- Story and Photo by Staff Sgt. Da- 1-32 Inf. will take over where 1-26 ing unit. vid Hopkins 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO Inf. left off as they continue to put pres- “The relief in place started in mid- sure on the enemy and their movements January and we are continuing to work JALALABAD AIRFIELD, Afghani- and activities in the region. with them until we pull out of the area stan (Feb. 04) —1st Battalion, 32nd “We hope to integrate quickly with and let them take over,” Clark said. Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Divi- Task Force Duke and have success along 1-32 Inf. is happy to be back in the sion, officially took over responsibility the border,” Army Lt. of a region along the Pakistan border in Col Mark O’Donnell, northeastern Afghanistan in a traditional 1-32 Inf. commander uncasing ceremony on February 4. from Carlisle, Penn., 1-32 Inf., nicknamed Chosin Battal- said. “We want to be ion after the Chosin Valley in Korea, is able to deny enemy taking over the region from 1st Battal- routes, deny them ac- ion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade cess to their safe ha- Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, who vens, force them out has conducted counterinsurgency opera- of our AO; we want tions in the area since June of 2008. to make movement “The battalion has a great history in hard on them.” the Army and a great history right here The leadership in the Konar province and Afghanistan,” of 1-32 Inf. sees the Army Col. John Spiszer, 3rd BCT, 1st ID progress that has been commander, said. “They are ready to go made since they rede- and I have great confidence in them.” ployed from the area The territory 1-32 Inf. is taking over at the end of their last is not unfamiliar to the battalion. They deployment, and they were deployed in the region during Op- are ready to create eration Enduring Freedom VII and spent more progress. 16 months in operations in the province. “The units that fol- “[Bringing us back to this spot] was lowed us took a lot one of the smartest decisions our leaders of our efforts, ener- have done,” Army Command Sgt. Maj. gies and plans for James Carabello, 1-32 Inf. command ser- the people and have LTC Mark O’Donnell, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment Com- geant major from North Andover, Mass., taken that forward,” said. “We are familiar with the area, we mander and Command Sgt. Maj. James Carabello, 1-32 Inf. Com- Carabello said. The mand sergeant major, stand in the Nawa Pass with their Afghan and have relationships with the people, with people’s lives are bet- Pakistani counterparts. the government and with the elders. The ter. They have a new people remember us. The people who road and more con- walk around on the streets remember us struction. We have seen a tremendous region and is ready to help the people. and that it important to our success.” amount of growth.” “This is one of the most beautiful The 1-26 Inf. units will be moving to Even though 1-32 Inf. is familiar with places I’ve been,” Carabello said. “The a different area where their skills will be the region and the work done over the people are very cordial. We respect better utilized in the overall mission. past they needed to be brought up to them and I believe they respect us. We “They [1-26 Inf.] did a phenomenal speed on the specifics of recent opera- provide a glimmer of hope so they can job here over the past six months,” Maj. tions through a Relief in Place, which is provide food for their families. I love Kendall Clark, executive officer for 1-26 a process that includes the outgoing unit this place and am happy to be back.” said about the outgoing units.

20 On Chosin ground... Ready for action Story by Staff Sgt. David Hopkins 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO ity of 1-32 Inf., who is responding to ’s request BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (Feb. 9) – CH-47 to bolster the coalition presence along this historically porous Chinook helicopters thundered up the Nawa Pass toward the border area. The Nawa Pass, one of many passes along the Pakistan border as OH-58Delta Kiowa Warrior helicopters border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, connects two dis- provided protective over-watch along ridgelines that over- tinct, yet inextricably linked countries together through a mu- look a designated landing zone. Near this ridgeline, Delta tual fight against an adaptive and increasingly brazen enemy. Company heavy weap- The mission is to forge a partnership that facilitates open com- ons platoon with the 1st munication, shared intelligence, and mutually supportive op- Battalion, 32nd Infan- erations between the two countries. Insurgents frequently use try Regiment, TF Spar- the international border to their advantage, escaping to Paki- tan, secured the landing stan when coalition operations threaten sanctuary in Afghani- zone, prepared for po- stan, then retreating to Afghanistan on those occasions when tential insurgents, who the PAKMIL conduct operations in the FATA. Rarely, though, had ambushed both Paki- has there been a coordinated effort between the PAKMIL and stan Military and Afghan coalition forces to prevent this freedom of movement. Border Police positions. As part of the meeting, Lt. Col. Mark O’Donnell, Chosin As the aircraft landed, commander, reinforced that the Pakistan Military, the Afghan members of 1-32 Inf. National Security Forces and Coalition Forces all have the leapt from the aircraft same goals: To interdict insurgent movement and maintain a and began a short, steep safe and secure environment for the citizens of their respective climb to the nearest rid- countries. geline. This ridgeline is “If we work separately and independently of each other, we significant – marking the will fail,” noted Major Zia, commander of troops in the Nawa Durand Line, the official Pass. “But if we fight as one, the insurgents cannot win.” demarcation between Af- O’Donnell assured both Pakistan and Afghan officials ghanistan and Pakistan. they shared a common vision for defeating insurgents and de- Waiting there for 1-32 nying sanctuary in this region. Contact information was ex- Inf. were members of the changed between leaders, and all expressed a commitment to Pakistani Bajour Rifles - improve effectiveness through partnership. the Pakistani security el- The rapport developed during key leader engagements such ement that provides over- as these are crucial to military operations. Meetings like the watch along the Pakistan one at Nawa Pass show that Coalition Forces will fight the war LTC Mark O’Donnell, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment Com- side of the border. on terrorism together. The success of 1-32 Inf. in Afghanistan mander and Command Sgt. Maj. James Carabello, 1-32 Inf. Com- will be measured by the success of these partnerships. mand sergeant major, stand in the Nawa Pass with their Afghan and Success in counter Pakistani counterparts. insurgency requires an Chosin battalion will conduct operations in Eastern Kunar ability to cooperate, part- Province, Afghanistan. In the conduct of this mission, which ner, and integrate with includes 140 kilometers of contentious border area between many different entities. Pakistan and Afghanistan, 1-32 Inf. has been detached from During the early morning of 6 February senior leaders from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Div. and has 1-32 Infantry, the Afghan National Army and the Afghan Bor- been re-attached to 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division. This der Police met with Pakistani Military officials at the Nawa is the battalion’s second deployment in the volatile Kunar Pass Border Facility. This location denotes the Afghanistan- Province. The Chosin Battalion deployed there during Opera- Pakistan border and is located along a contentious region of tion Enduring Freedom VII from March 2006 until June 2007, Pakistan known as the Federally Administered Tribal Area, during which time they achieved an effective partnership with or FATA, which has long been considered a safe haven for the populace in their areas of operation. The importance of senior Taliban and Al Qaeda leaders. This region along the building new relationships and connecting with old ones will eastern border of the Konar Province has been the focus of be as important as ever as 1-32 Inf. partners with Afghan and coalition forces since 2003, and has become the responsibil- PAKMIL forces to defeat enemy forces. 21 Soldiers equipped

By Pv2. Cody Thompson The REF’s origin be- 40th Public Affairs Detachment gan in 2002 when Col. BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan Bruce Jette, REF found- (Feb. 23) – Located inside of the Joint er met with Gen. John Task Force Paladin Complex, the Rapid Keane, Army Vice Chief Equipping Force offers innovative tacti- of Staff at the time, and cal equipment and technologies. discussed the possibility The REF is comprised of Soldiers of using robots instead of working with contractors to provide Soldiers to search caves equipment in limited quantities to units in Afghanistan. for specific capability shortfalls. This Jette developed a re- increases Soldier's safety and combat ef- mote controlled robot fectiveness on the battlefield. using commercial tech- “The REF is allowing me to take lo- nology and brought it gistics to the next level,” said El Hadji to Afghanistan, where Ndiaye, REF contract logistics analyst, it was hailed as a suc- whose previous experience as an Army cess. Unlike the Central logistics specialist helps to push the lo- Issuing Facility and the gistics envelope. “What we do is impor- Rapid Fielding Initia- tant because it creates an impact on how tive, REF specializes in we fight the war by inserting new tech- rapidly fielding specific nology that’s extremely useful to the war equipment from govern- fighter in a very short time frame.” ment or commercial off- REF, headquartered out of Fort Bel- the-shelf purchases. voir, Va., is part of the Army logistics or- According to the ganization which consists of operations, REF’s official website, intelligence, requirement validations, ac- www.ref.army.mil, Sol- quisition and technology management. diers first have to go However, REF isn’t under the same through a 10-Liner form, constraints as a regular logistics unit. similar to an Operational Something that would take logistics eight Needs Statement, to ac- Photo by Pfc. Kimberly D. Cole or nine months to create only takes the quire equipment. Sgt. 1st Class Richard Manley, operations non-commis- REF eight or nine weeks, said Sgt. 1st “The process begins sioned officer in charge, Rapid Equipping Force, and Christo- pher Boddy, civilian contractor, STS International, set up the Class Richard Manley, REF operations and ends with the Sol- thermal imaging targeting device system, Feb. 7. non-commissioned officer in charge. dier,” said Manley. REF 10-Liner 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Problem: Justification: System Operational Organizational Procurement Support Availability: Recommen- Coordination Characteristics: Concept: Concept: Objective: Requirements: dation: Accomplished: Identify What needs to be Why does ‘it’ What do you How will your What level will How many are What sustain- What do you List Coordination products that solved? need to be need it to do? unit use ‘it?’ ‘it’ be used at? needed? ment and want to of all entities solved? maintenance may fill ‘its’ happen? involved. will be needed? needs.

22 for success by REF The REF equips Soldiers through ing a Soldier’s life. the feedback that REF receives from “We used it on a patient that re- units. They can further refine solu- quired ventilation and had complications tions geared toward increasing Sol- through the intubation. My partner suc- dier combat effectiveness and safety. cessfully navigated the tube down the Once REF has a proven con- patient’s trachea on the first attempt and cept, equipment is either created or proceeded to apply a rapid sequence of modified, if the complexity isn’t too intubation, and once tapered, we trans- great. It generally takes three to eight ferred him to the emergency room,” said months for the gaining unit to receive Army Sgt. Ruben Higgins, flight medic, the equipment, although future tech- Company C, 1-168 General Support nology inserts take about one to two Aviation Battalion. years to implement. REF equipment is purchased through Dr. Dan Kingsley, REF manag- REF funds, not unit funds. The only cost ing theater engineer contractor, who to the unit is to provide feedback on the has a doctorate in robotics from equipment. Case Western Reserve University in An assessment is conducted after the Cleveland, Ohio, said the contractors issuing equipment has been used in a provide in-theater engineering sup- combat environment to gauge if it should port with advice and gather require- be transitioned Army wide. ments. “REF equipment is very useful. I like REF equips Soldiers and units the idea that they’re encouraging com- with counter-improvised explosive panies to let us use some of this stuff to devices, forward operating base se- try and get improvements for it,” said curity systems, camera systems, in- Sgt. Christopher P. Thompson, 2nd team dividual Soldier systems, personal leader, 2nd platoon, Company B, 1st protection and lightweight equip- Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, Ko- ment. rengal Valley Contingency Operating Flight medics of the 1-168 Gen- Base, Afghanistan. eral Support Aviation Battalion units “The future of the REF looks bright Photo by Pfc. Kimberly D. Cole utilize a small, compact hands-free and if one piece of REF equipment saves Sgt. 1st Class Richard Manley, operations non-commis- ventilation system provided by the one Soldier’s life, then we’ve done our sioned officer in charge, Rapid Equipping Force, and Christo- REF. job,” said Manley. “Anywhere there’s pher Boddy, civilian contractor, STS International, set up the thermal imaging targeting device system, Feb. 7. As recent as a month ago, this a Soldier deployed, the REF will be piece of equipment was used in sav- there.” process 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Problem: Justification: System Operational Organizational Procurement Support Availability: Recommen- Coordination Characteristics: Concept: Concept: Objective: Requirements: dation: Accomplished: Identify What needs to be Why does ‘it’ What do you How will your What level will How many are What sustain- What do you List Coordination products that solved? need to be need it to do? unit use ‘it?’ ‘it’ be used at? needed? ment and want to of all entities solved? maintenance may fill ‘its’ happen? involved. will be needed? needs.

23 NATO weapons modernize ANA

Story and Photos by Pfc. Derek Kuhn they get to know the M-16 rifle, they learn to accept it and like 40th Public Affairs Detachment its capabilities.” BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (Feb. 23) - Coalition Some of the ANA soldiers have already become proficient Forces are outfitting the Afghan National Army by providing with the M-16 rifle. hundreds of weapons and dozens of up-armored humvees “We have some really good shooters here,” said Viggers. through the NATO Force Modernization Project. The Afghan soldiers are learning to drive and maneuver the The ANA 203rd Thunder Corps will receive hundreds up-armored humvees. of weapons including M-16 rifles, M-249 squad automatic The most lauded feature of the up-armored humvees is its weapon, M-203 grenade launchers and M-240B machine gun. capability to withstand most IEDs. They will also receive approximately 40 up-armored humvees “They appreciate the added protection the up-armored hum- by the time the fielding is complete. vees bring,” said Viggers. “The program is intended to help modernize the 203rd “The drivers are picking the training up pretty quickly.” Thunder Corps force,” said Army Lt. Col. David Viggers, However, the force modernization program does not accept coordinator for 203rd Thunder Corps’ up-armored humvees all applicants. and NATO weapons issue. “We are trying to bring them up to Soldiers are hand-selected and receive a battery of medical our standard. Then, they’ll be better suited to accomplish the exams, said Navy Lt. Cmdr. Denise Grechas, surgeon medical mission here.” mentor for the 203rd Thunder Corps. The AK-47 assault rifle is currently the firearm issued to Exams include blood pressure, heartbeat, vision and a visu- most ANA soldiers, but a few have started fielding the more al search for any physical deficiencies. Immediately following accurate M-16 rifle. the exams, the selected soldiers receive a few rounds of immu- Coalition forces are assisting ANA soldiers by training the nizations. The medical in-processing can take up to two days. trainers and helping to develop training regiments for the other The soldiers who pass, are then tracked in the medical sys- Afghan soldiers. tem and begin training shortly thereafter. So far the transition between weapons has been smooth. If a soldier has poor eyesight, a pair of glasses is ordered “They are receiving the new equipment quite well,” said for him. Viggers. “From most of the soldiers I have talked with, once Grechas believes getting glasses for the soldiers is an added benefit of the fielding program. Obvi- ously, the ANA soldiers need to see where to shoot and drive, but the glass- es help them in daily life as well, said Grechas. Once the medical exams are complet- ed, ANA soldiers begin their training. However, medical care is not forgotten. Health and sanitation is of paramount concern, which is why the 203rd Thun- der Corps has produced picture pam- phlets on sanitation. A healthy corps is integral for its ef- fectiveness, said Grechas. A safe and stable Afghanistan is a goal of the 203rd Thunder Corps and the Coalition forces involved in this program. “I think it will be rewarding to see them take a step forward as far as the modernization of their military and [to An Afghan National Army soldier aims his M-16 rifle at a target on a range at Forward Operating Base see] the effect it’s going to have on the Thunder. The ANA are receiving weapons as part of Afghan population if we can help secure the NATO force modernization project. the country quicker,” said Viggers. 24 Human Terrain Teams building friendships and future NATO weapons modernize ANA By Cpl. John Zumer 40th Public Affairs Detachment BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (Feb. 23) - Coali- they get to know the M-16 rifle, they learn to accept it and like tion forces have been quite successful over the last seven its capabilities.” years on the battlefields of Afghanistan. True and lasting Some of the ANA soldiers have already become proficient success, however, lies in winning the hearts and minds of with the M-16 rifle. Afghans, and the recent implementation of Human Terrain “We have some really good shooters here,” said Viggers. Teams is a large building block for ultimate victory. The Afghan soldiers are learning to drive and maneuver the HTTs were developed in 2005 in response to identified up-armored humvees. gaps in commander’s and staff’s understanding of the lo- The most lauded feature of the up-armored humvees is its cal population and culture, and its impact on operational Courtesy Photo capability to withstand most IEDs. decisions. Their mission is to provide field commanders HTT member Chris Fritz talks with Afghan children on a re- “They appreciate the added protection the up-armored hum- with the relevant social and cultural understanding neces- cent mission to Nijrab District in Kapisa province. Regular inter- vees bring,” said Viggers. sary to meet daily operational requirements. They fall un- action with villagers, recognition of tribal customs and cultures “The drivers are picking the training up pretty quickly.” der the Human Terrain System framework. Whereas HTTs and establishment of personal friendships is the cornerstone However, the force modernization program does not accept operate in the field, HTSs are analytical teams attached to of the HTT program all applicants. divisional staffs, and largely analyze field data and other to build that trusting relationship,” said Larry Rice, research Soldiers are hand-selected and receive a battery of medical information. manager of the HTT. Non-verbal cues that reinforce the verbal exams, said Navy Lt. Cmdr. Denise Grechas, surgeon medical It is the first time that social science research, analysis and message are also vital to success in changing the theater and mentor for the 203rd Thunder Corps. advising has been done systematically, and at the operational forging relationships, added Rice, citing body language of Co- Exams include blood pressure, heartbeat, vision and a visu- level. alition forces that can be interpreted differently by Afghans. al search for any physical deficiencies. Immediately following “Much can be accomplished by approaching things from a Spellmon wishes the HTT concept had arrived even sooner, the exams, the selected soldiers receive a few rounds of immu- social rather than a security problem,” said Jim Emery, lead considering the visible successes. “I would have loved to have nizations. The medical in-processing can take up to two days. social scientist of an HTT attached to Task Force Warrior. De- had this team in our train-up prior to coming to Afghanistan,” The soldiers who pass, are then tracked in the medical sys- partment of Defense contracted social scientists join military he said. The combat training centers, where HTT also pro- tem and begin training shortly thereafter. officers, analysts and researchers in the composition ofan vides information and guidance on what to expect in-theater, If a soldier has poor eyesight, a pair of glasses is ordered HTT. are great in providing a deeper understanding of the Afghan for him. Five pilot teams were created at the program’s beginning. people, he added. Grechas believes getting glasses for the soldiers is an added Four went to Iraq, and the fifth was attached to Task Force Despite the many HTT successes, there remain present and benefit of the fielding program. Obvi- Fury in Khowst province, Afghanistan, in Jan. 2007. HTTs future challenges. The size of Afghanistan coupled with few ously, the ANA soldiers need to see only embed with U.S. Army units, and while normally at- HTTs limits the amount of time spent in villages, but the ab- where to shoot and drive, but the glass- tached at BCT levels, they also provide general support for sence of their own logistical assets can also be stifling. Quality es help them in daily life as well, said entire task forces. time spent by the HTT in villages is the most pressing need, Grechas. These efforts directed on the social level have already however. “Just going out on a postcard run and not really talk- Once the medical exams are complet- yielded many successes. ing to people does us no good,” said Emery. ed, ANA soldiers begin their training. HTTs have already accounted for a reduction in kinetic op- Coalition forces also need a better mission understanding, However, medical care is not forgotten. erations in one Afghan province, according to Col. Scott A. which requires the building of friendships. Time spent on the Health and sanitation is of paramount Spellmon, brigade commander, Task Force Warrior. Problems ground in days, not minutes, is vital in building friendships, concern, which is why the 203rd Thun- in Kapisa province had been tied to the difficulty in under- said Rice. der Corps has produced picture pam- standing numerous local dynamics. The population was mixed “People tire of being asked what they need, the United phlets on sanitation. with Pashtun and Tajik peoples, a fact which can be problem- States going away, and then nothing changes,” said Emery. A healthy corps is integral for its ef- atic, said Spellmon. Tensions in the air were reduced when Negative and inaccurate stereotypes of Muslims and Af- fectiveness, said Grechas. the HTT talked with local elders. Emery feels the success has ghans also need to be overcome. “Tribes don’t always behave A safe and stable Afghanistan is a yielded an even-greater reward. as co-ops in either Afghanistan or Iraq, and that has to be taken goal of the 203rd Thunder Corps and “One of the measurable qualities in Kapisa is that you have into account,” said Josh Foust, senior analyst for the HTT. the Coalition forces involved in this people coming forward now with information,” he said. “Differences and the way they’re handled matter,” he added. program. The ANA and police forces are taking much more promi- Friendship, honor, loyalty, good manners, hospitality, re- “I think it will be rewarding to see nent roles, and as far as Emery is concerned, success is largely spect for elders and love of children are hallmarks of Afghan them take a step forward as far as the measured by the respect and cooperation of villagers. life, and an appreciation of those traits will ultimately deter- modernization of their military and [to “If you provide hope for the future, then you provide viable mine success for Coalition forces. see] the effect it’s going to have on the alternatives,” said Emery. “The main goal in Afghanistan is security, stability, and Afghan population if we can help secure The HTT process of defeating the enemy is neither quick prosperity,” said Emery, “but you have to establish good per- the country quicker,” said Viggers. or trouble-free, however. “Sometimes it takes 6 to 8 months sonal relationships first.” 25 ANA law: one step closer to stability Story and Photos by Pfc. Derek Kuhn received from their mentors, especially ell. 40th Public Affairs Detachment from the 503rd Military Police Battalion So with eyes set on the future, and their noses to the grindstone, the soldiers of BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan deployed from Fort Bragg, N.C. 203rd Thunder Corps ANA foresee a pros- (Feb. 24) – With a willingness to learn “We are very grateful for having the perous future for their country with the and a do-it-yourself attitude, the soldiers mentors here, because they give us very of the 203rd Thunder Corps, Afghan Na- good training,” said an ANA soldier. help of servicemembers and the OCC-R. tional Army are blazing a trail toward “The training we have received will al- “We feel great [about the future],” said “ self-sufficient security and judicial sov- low us to handle any difficulties in the Khaulullah. We have the assistance of a ereignty. future on our own. We are more disci- strong country, so we feel good about the The Operation Coordination Center- plined now and we are getting better ev- future of our country. Regional program has allowed the 203rd ery day.” Thunder Corps to surpass other areas of The Afghan MPs have received in- Afghanistan in the rule of law and co- struction on combat movement drills, ordination among all law-enforcement how to properly patrol a perimeter, entities. and other basics, said Army Sgt. 1st Servicemembers participating in the Class Fuller Mitchell, 503rd MP Bn. program act as mentors to the developing Armorer NCO. ANA and have accelerated the growth of The 203rd Corps’ confidence stems the skills of their Afghan counterparts. from the sense of purpose their men- Currently underway is the develop- tors display on a daily basis. ment and implementation of the Afghan- “It’s important to help the ANA be istan Uniform Code of Military Justice. independent to get some systems in “We have worked in [place] a new place to establish them,” said Mitch- UCMJ,” said Air Force Col. Alisa James, ell. Command Staff Judge Advocate for Re- Emphasis is placed on letting the gional Command-East, 2nd Air Force. ANA work through whatever issues “We are trying cases and getting the pub- they have and the mentors acting only licity down-range to the battalions, so in a counselor’s role. they know that they are under scrutiny.” The MP mentors have also set a The word is getting out and that ac- goal. They want the ANA to run their countability makes the ANA a stronger own MP school here. The mentors army. are able to step back and look at what James oversaw the completion of a they and their students have accom- new courthouse and jail for the ANA, plished. which has given the Afghan soldiers a “(The progress) is very gratify- greater sense of purpose and pride. ing,” said James. “It makes us all feel “We are very lucky to have these wonderful to have the 203rd Thun- buildings,” said ANA Brig. Gen. Saued der Corps ANA have the first judicial Khaulullah, regional judge. “We are do- center in Afghanistan.” Still, there are drills to complete ing great here, because of our facilities.” An ANA Military Police soldier inspects a However, the new facilities are not and tactics to learn. pistol during a changing of the guard formation what drive the Afghan soldiers’ growing The 203rd Thunder Corps ANA is at Forward Operating Base Thunder. The ANA confidence. motivated and wants to accomplish MPs are training with the 503rd Military Police Many credit the guidance they have the mission on their own, said Mitch- Battalion on police procedures. 26 Servicemembers volunteer to provide humanitarian assistance pacted them. “It defies belief of what they don’t one step closer to stability have,” said Army Col. Kevin Hulett, ARCAC logistics mentor with the Il- ell. So with eyes set on the future, and their linois National Guard. “There are kids noses to the grindstone, the soldiers of around our FOB with no shoes, no socks 203rd Thunder Corps ANA foresee a pros- in two or three inches of snow stick- perous future for their country with the ing their hands through concertina wire help of servicemembers and the OCC-R. and grates saying, ‘gimme something, gimme chocolate.’ They have less than “We feel great [about the future],” said the homeless people back at home.” Khaulullah. “We have the assistance of a When the humanitarian assistance strong country, so we feel good about the packages are delivered, the children future of our country. show their gratitude. “The children are elated,” said Hulett. “They are all smiles. A bag of pencils, a bag of crayons, a little notebook or a Hot Wheels car are a treasured item to these children.” Magnum described it as “Christmas every time.” The humanitarian assistance mission has a tactical effect on the overall coun- ter-insurgency mission. “The insurgents are trying to spread the word that we are the bad guys and we are trying to show the Afghans that we Spc. Bruce Petersen, 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, and Air Force Capt. are good guys,” Magnum said. “I think Bryne Main, Logistics officer, load school supplies for an upcoming humanitarian assistance mission. this is one good way to show it.” “It helps us with our mission,” said Story and Photo by Pfc. Derek Kuhn “We are trying to help people anyway Hulett. “It’s so they know we aren’t just 40th Public Affairs Detachment we can,” said Army Command Sgt. Maj. a kinetic force. We are here to help their BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan Richard Magnum, 3rd Brigade, 1st In- Army, help their police force and help (Feb. 24) – Service members from For- fantry Division command sergeant ma- them.” ward Operating Base Lightning and Af- jor. “Whether we’re mentoring the ANA Some believe the humanitarian aid ghan National Army have come together or giving them aid, it is part of being gives the Afghans something to hope to provide humanitarian assistance to lo- an American. It is what we do; we help for. cal villagers. people.” “We’re trying to give these people Through donations from various web- Others echoed Magnum’s sentiments. some hope,” said De Jesus. “[We are try- sites, churches and the Boy Scouts of “It makes you feel that you are part of ing] to help make that light at the end of America, FOB Lightning volunteers put something bigger than yourself,” said Air the tunnel brighter.” together humanitarian assistance pack- Force Staff Sgt. Joan De Jesus, a service- The act of volunteering brought all ages consisting of food, winter clothing, member at FOB Lightning. “It makes me parties together in the spirit of human- toys, school supplies and shoes for Af- proud to be in the military; prouder to be ity. ghans. an American.” “It is a camaraderie thing,” said Hu- Many volunteers said they helped be- Volunteers recounted the plight of lett. “Everyone from all the forces is cause it was the right thing to do. some of the children and how it has im- having a good time.” 27 Photo By Staff Sgt. David Hopkins, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO Pfc. Henry Gardner, infantryman with C Company, 1st Battal- ion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infan- try Division, connects a large container to a crane for removal at Combat Outpost Seray, Feb. 6. The COP is being closed after the road opening in the valley, signifying a successful mission and the end of their job in the area.

Photo by Sgt. Michael Armstrong, 40th PAD An ANA Soldier adjusts the front sight post on his M16A2 rifle during a qualification range at FOB Lightning

Story by Staff Sgt. David Hopkins 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO A Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 6th Squadron, 4th Cav- - alry Regiment, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, HMMWV sits on a plateau overlook ing a patrol route Photo by Pfc. Derek Kuhn, 40th Public Affairs Detachment An ANA Soldier gives his ‘thumbs-up’ for the NATO force modernization project. Recently, the ANA began training with the new weapons at FOB Thunder.

29 Photo by Pfc. Derek Kuhn, 40th PAD Afghan National Army Soldiers get familiarized with an up-armored High Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicle.

Photo by Staff Sgt. David Hopkins 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO Equipment and gear sits in piles at Combat Out- post Seray in the mountains above the Deywagal valley on Feb. 6, as Soldiers pack and load trucks. Photo by Pfc. Derek Kuhn 40th Public Affairs Detachment Afghan National Army Soldiers inspect a target after firing a few rounds at a range on Forward Operating Base Thunder. The ANA is receiving weapons as part of the NATO force moderniza- tion project.

Photo by Pfc. Derek Kuhn, 40th PAD Afghan National Army Soldiers get familiarized with an up-armored High Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicle.

Courtesy Photo Army Sgt. Sean MacDermott, a crew chief with Task Force Eagle, mans a .50-caliber machine gun, while aboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter enroute to Forward Operating Base Shank, Logar province, Afghanistan, February 11. MacDermott is assigned to Company B 2/38 based out of Peoria, Ill.

31 Mental health clinic for Servicemembers opens at Bagram Story by Spc. Boris Shiloff eral topics, including anger management, vicemember was sent to Germany or the 40th Public Affairs Detachment common task training, post-traumatic U.S. for additional care. BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan stress disorder awareness and warrior “This fills that in-between gap of peo- (Feb. 23) - Servicemembers in Afghani- resiliency. ple that need a little bit more, but they stan now have a place to turn to for help The program has a common standard don’t need the whole enchilada,” ex- with the toughest aspects of their deploy- outline for all servicemembers enrolled, plains Air Force Col. David Geyer, Task ment when they need it most. but can also be tailored to the specific Force Med commander. The Bagram Freedom Restoration needs of the individual servicemember. The program takes many of the com- Center is the first mental health clinic in The skills and information the service- ponents of similar programs in Iraq, and Afghanistan. The center’s main goal is member receives from the clinic helps tailors them to the Afghanistan area of to give servicemembers skills they can throughout the deployment, but can last responsibility. use to cope with combat stress and the long past that. Six staff members, a mixture of Air rigors of a deployment and return them The center’s focus on quickly return- Force and Army mental health and oc- to duty quickly. ing a servicemember to duty is one of the cupational therapy professionals, com- “We are tapping into things that [ser- key aspects of the program. Prior to the prise the staff that serves at the clinic. vicemembers] possibly already know,” Bagram Freedom Restoration Center, The clinic is staffed 24 hours a day and said Tech. Sgt. Mirabel Meekins, the servicemembers in Afghanistan had only all members of the staff are involved in clinic’s operations non-commissioned two options to address mental health is- helping the servicemember get back to officer in charge, “or offering them new sues. duty. skills and techniques they can use at One option was for the servicemem- “We’re really pleased to have this cen- the Forward Operating Base or Combat ber to spend a few days of rest and re- ter,” said Geyer. “We’re looking forward Outpost, or after they separate from the laxation or light duty at their respective to the ability to provide the same kind of military.” FOB, and then return to duty. The other service that other servicemembers have The clinic hosts a three to five-day option was to be evaluated at BAF, and had the benefit of in the Iraqi theater.” structured program covering many gen- if further treatment was needed, the ser-

Photo by Spc. Boris Shiloff Senior Airman Jessica Osgood teaches a class on warrior resiliency at the Bagram Freedom Restoration Center. Osgood is a mental health technician at the Bagram Freedom Restoration Center, the first mental health rehabilitation clinic for servicemembers to open in Afghanistan.

32 Warrior Profile

Hometown: Austin, Curr ent Military InAteslsliiggnemnceen Bt:Ta e6ttx3aa6l-sth ion, Bagram Goals while deployed: Deployed fr Air Field Get in shape and learn BN, Camp Moambr:y 636th MI Spanish Number How do you spend your of times d, Tepexloaysed: Deployed once to Kosovo free time: Reading, from 2005 to 2006 movies and playing bas- Best part of deployment: ketball Seeing the country and talk- spc. ernesto ruedaz Plans upon r ing to the locals Finish associateetsu drneg: ree in applied science

Photo by Spc. Boris Shiloff Senior Airman Jessica Osgood teaches a class on warrior resiliency at the Bagram Freedom Restoration Center. Osgood is a mental health technician at the Bagram Freedom Restoration Center, the first mental health rehabilitation clinic for servicemembers to open in Afghanistan.

33 Unit Spotlight

Reconstruction TeamName (PRT) of as Unit:partners in Task supporting Force local government, Palehorse providing (7-17 advice and Cavalry assistance Squadron)to the Provincial Governor, the Af- ghan National Police and district sub-governors.

Mission: On order, Task Force Pale- combat tour for 7-17 CAV since being Blackhawk, and Chinook helicopters horse conducts attack, reconnaissance, reactivated at Fort Campbell, KY, on 10 as well as Hunter UAVs, which all play security, air assault, and air movement April 2006. The Squadron previously a role in providing recon, security, air operations in support of Task Force earned a Presidential Unit Citation and movement, air assault, and air MEDE- Duke/OCF to disrupt enemy operations four Valorous Unit Awards during the VAC support throughout the N2KL re- and enable enduring security and devel- Vietnam War before being deactivated at gion of Afghanistan. Additionally, Task opment in the N2KL region. Fort Hood, Texas, on 16 July 1986. Force Palehorse is part of the first Com- Unit History: Task Force Palehorse Interesting Unit Facts: Task Force bat Aviation Brigade (159th CAB) to deployed to Jalalabad Airfield, Afghani- Palehorse consists of 36 aircraft includ- field and deploy with the new UH-60M stan in December 2008. This is the first ing Kiowa Warrior, Apache Longbow, and CH-47F model aircraft.

Would you like to have your unit in the spotlight? If so, email the 40th PAD at [email protected]. Please include your unit’s name, mission, history and any interesting facts.