Official Magazine of ISAF
Issue 49 July 2008 MIRROR ISAFInternational Security Assistance Force • Issue 49 July 2008 •
Success stories from around Afghanistan Page 16
Special Forces physicians save Afghan child Page 19 official magazine of isaf COMISAF Intent ISAF MIRROR n full partnership with the grow- ing institutions of the Islamic ISAF Mirror is a Headquarters Republic of Afghanistan, and International Security Assistance I Force Public Affairs product in- within the means allocated by NATO and the many nations sup- tended for the information and porting the mission, ISAF demon- entertainment of ISAF and associ- strates NATO’s commitment to the ated personnel. Though articles have security, reconstruction and the been edited, opinions expressed are extension of governance in Afghan- those of the author and do not neces- istan. Further, ISAF demonstrates sarily reflect the policies of NATO, both the will and capacity to apply Joint Forces Command Headquar- irresistible force by, through, and in ters Brunssum or ISAF. support of Afghan National Secu- The Mirror is published every two rity Forces against the insurgents’ months (March, May, July, Septem- strategy and others who forcibly op- ber and November) and distributed pose the progress of this campaign. among the regional commands. We will assist in demonstrating the View it on-line at www.nato.int/isaf. growing capacity of ANSF to meet Submissions to ISAF Mirror the GIRoA’s security challenges, should be related to ISAF opera- and will operate in such a way as to tions; however, other articles may be demonstrate respect for the Afghan run based on their appeal to an inter- people and their culture in order Gen. David D. McKiernan national military audience. Articles to effect their direct support of our Commander, ISAF should be sent in Microsoft Word endeavor. format and photos should be at least 4.5 cm at 300 dpi resolution. Include identifying information of authors. E-mail submissions to jessica. [email protected]. The dead- ISAF Mission line for submissions is the 25th day Conduct military operations in the assigned area of operations to assist the of the month prior to publication. Government of Afghanistan in the establishment and maintenance of a safe To contact the editor, call DSN and secure environment with full engagement of Afghan National Security 318 686 2466 or e-mail jessica. Forces, in order to extend government authority and influence, thereby fa- [email protected]. cilitating Afghanistan’s reconstruction and contributing to regional stability.
ISAF operations are divided among five regional commands: Regional Command Capital (approx strength 5,900) •HQ ISAF in Kabul (Composite) •HQ RC-C in Kabul (TUR) Editorial Staff Regional Command South (approx strength 23,800) Royal Navy Capt. Mike Finney •HQ RC-S in Kandahar (CAN) Chief, Public Affairs Regional Command West (approx strength 2,500) •HQ RC-W in Herat (ITA) U. S. Navy Lieutenant Regional Command North (approx strength 4,300) Jessica L. Gandy •HQ RC-N in Mazar-e-Sharif (DEU) Editor Regional Command East (approx strength 16,400) •HQ RC-E in Bagram (USA) U. S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Michael E. Wagoner Layout and Design Front Page: Back Page: Afghan girl smiles British soldier takes a for the camera in break with an Afghan boy Kandahar. while on patrol. Photo by: PO1 John Collins
2 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 CONTENTS
Page 23 Page 22 Page 7
Pages 4-5 Page 17 Page 18 Regional Command Capital Royal Canadian Mounted Police train Afghan Pages 6-7 security forces Regional Command East Page 18 Pages 8-9 Afghan National Army Air Regional Command North Corps conduct successful missions Pages 10-11 Images from Afghanistan Page 19 Special Forces physicians Pages 12-13 save Afghan girl COMISAF Change of Command Pages 20-21 Regional Command South Pages 14-15 Interview with COMISAF Page 22 Regional Command West Page 16 Success stories from around Page 23 Afghanistan Afghanistan National Taekwondo Federation visit
Page 17
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 3 Regional command capital +
2nd and 9th Alpini Regiment of the Italian Contingents Handover in Kabul
abul, Afghanistan - The reconstruction support of rural areas. sistance in the rebuilding and 2nd Alpini regiment of In the period from the 10th of development sectors. They brought Kthe Italian Contingent, left January to the 10th of June, the to fruition many projects with funds Kabul mid June after five months of Italian contengent provided 2017 granted by the Italian Minister of service. patrols, 300 observation points, 400 Defence and some Italian donors. Colonel Michele Risi, Command- escorts, 700 activities with Afghan Every project has had the active er of the 2nd Regiment was replaced security forces and discovered 11 participation of local authorities and by Colonel Andrea Mulciri, Com- hidden munition caches. people, giving priority to undevel- mander of the 9th Regiment. Italian troops also provided as- oped areas. The ceremony of transfer of The “ Fiorito Polsinelli” medi- authority was attended by the cal clinic was the last CIMIC Commander of the operative project realized by the 2nd Al- landing forces, General Arman- pini Regiment in Musay valley. do Novelli. The structure is dedicated in The Italian Contingent in Ka- the memory of two Italian sol- bul supported Afghan authori- diers belonging to the 2nd Alpini ties in guaranteeing security in Regiment who lost their lives in the Kabul area and in providing a terroristic attack in 2006.
First Month of Activities Successful for New RC-Capital Italian Contingent in Kabul
abul, Afghanistan - Region- al Command Capital’s new KContingent in Kabul, made up by the 9th Alpini regiment from L’Aquila, just ended the first month of its activities in Kabul. In this period, the Italian Contin- gent made more than 800 patrols, many of them conducted with Kabul City Police. Moreover, in the same period, RC - Capital Italian troops gave help to the local population. In particular they delivered food and water in rural areas, realized urban constructions and gave medical and veterinarian support in many small villages.
4 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 RC-Capital Troops Find 100th Cache
abul, Afghanistan - In mid ian, French and Turkish Contingents The Italian Contingent operating in June Regional Command operating in the RC-Capital area of southern Kabul inaugurated a clinic KCapital Troops found the operations. This is a very significant in Musay Valley. 100th cache, located in the Kabul result compared to last year. The French Civil Military Coopera- area since the 1st of January 2008. RC-Capital is also working hard for tion Team inaugurated 3 pedestrian This important goal was achieved reconstruction and development. bridges in Kalakan and water tank in thanks to ISAF troops’ deep pres- The Task Force operating in eastern Chesmeh Ye Karuti. ence on the area of operations and Kabul recently inaugurated a library, Turkish units installed wells in to the good relationship between the a clinic, three pedestrian bridges and Khak-e Jabbar and built twelve local populace and soldiers. about thirty wells in the rural district classroom schools in Police District Total items found in the whole of Surobi. 12. Kabul area amounts to: 6598 In all the rural areas of Kabul bullets, 671 mortar rounds, 478 region, troops are also distributing rockets, 693 fuses, 75 kg of explo food, clothes, scholar equipments, sives, 145 grenades, 117 mines, agricultural tools and medical and 3 guns, 2 counter air systems, 2 veterinary support too. rifles and 1 mortar. Since December 2007, RC- Task Force Surobi found 84 of Capital national Contingents have the total 100 caches discovered by spent 5.5 million dollars on recon- RC-Capital. struction. The others were found by Ital-
RC-Capital Troops Support Agriculture in Rural Area abul, Afghanistan - Onward of another project: the construction Agriculture is the main source of activities of Italian troops of of one wall which can contain rain income within this area and the “Ag- KRegional Command Capital and also help solve the problem of riculture Project” is one of the many encourage agriculture. drought in this rural area. activities lead by Italian troops in On the 30th of June, in the Both projects had been realized the Kabul area. Jegdaleg valley, Italian troops of with national funds totaling more RC-Capital achieves important Task Force Surobi inaugurated four than 29.000 euro. results in the agriculture field, one new wells. The opening ceremony These activities belong to the “Ag- of the most important focuses of was attended by Italian soldiers with riculture Project” which consists of it’s reconstruction and development the local population and its leaders. delivering trees, agricultural equip- efforts. In the same day, the Nawabad ments, fodders, and grain to Surobi’s village celebrated the achievement local population.
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 5 Regional command east +
Kunar School Brings Skills to Workers
higal, Kunar province – Af- Dr. Jamaludeen heads the ap- Provincial Reconstruction Team ghanistan still struggles with prenticeship council that acts as a (PRT) and the local government. Shigh unemployment rates, but managing board for the school. He Students are given a daily stipend the first graduating class of Kunar told Sada-e-Azadi, “There are many during the 3-month course as well Construction Center has found companies who are involved in as housing on campus if they need 100% employment. construction work, and 45 of them it. Graduates receive a certificate of 140 students, from all districts came today to make job offers to the achievement and a starter toolkit. of Kunar, graduated the 3-month graduates.” Interested companies re- PRT Commander Daniel W course at the newly-constructed fa- quested 157 skilled laborers – more Dwyer spoke of the honor in pro- cility in Shigal district. They learned than the 140 who graduated. He viding for one’s family through different skills like painting, electri- added, “After this no one will bring skilled labor. He told the graduates, cal work, plumbing, masonry, steel skilled laborers from Pakistan or “Yesterday skilled labor came from bending, and carpentry. other parts of Afghanistan, but will Pakistan. Today it comes from Ku- About 45 construction companies appoint these local men instead.” nar. You represent the best hope for attended the ceremony to recruit the The Governor of Kunar province, rebuilding this country.” new graduates. Companies in Kunar Said Fazlullah Wahidi, spoke at the Hundreds of guests attended the have typically had to bring skilled ceremony about the need for op- graduation ceremony, including Pro- laborers from Pakistan or Nangarhar portunities for young men in Kunar. vincial Governor Wahidi, delegates to work on their projects because of He said, “This center is not only to from USAID, district governors, the the lack of skilled labor in Kunar. train the boys and proved them job PRT commander, and the heads of Mujeeburahman, who graduated opportunities, but there will also be ANP, NDS, and other offices. in the electrical field, said, “I am a materials testing laboratory here; The KCC allocates slots to stu- very happy that after gradation I got this will increase the quality of the dents from all districts of Kunar. a professional job. I will work in a projects.” Anyone interested to apply to the construction company which will The school was established with school should consult their district pay me a good salary.” support from USAID, the Kunar governor.
6 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 PRT Gardez Honor Fallen Soldiers
Story courtesy of Gardez PRT
embers of Provincial Battalion, 103rd Armour Regiment Reconstruction Team of the Pennsylvania Army National MGardez, along with 1/61 Guard. Within his unit, he served Calvary Soldiers and other mem- as an Infantryman and was both bers of various groups, gathered at a driver and gunner for the PRT’s the Raven Landing Zone, June 9, to security force. honour the life and sacrifices of two “In the few short months I knew fallen Soldiers: Army Maj. Scott Specialist Holland, there have been Alan Hagerty and Spc. Derek David so many good times and so many Holland. moments I will never forget,” said Army Maj. Scott Alan Hagerty, Army 1st Lt. Daniel Naylor, a PRT age 41, a PRT Civil Affairs team platoon leader. “While driving cau- leader, was killed June 3, 2008 in tiously across a narrow bridge, he the line of duty when the armoured told me he was nervous not because vehicle he was riding in hit an Im- he was scared, but because he didn’t provised Explosive Device. Hagerty want to roll the vehicle and hurt was in the process of completing vil- anyone else. This is the type of self- lage and school assessments in the less person he was.” Zormat district. Holland was at the beginning of Spc. Derek David Holland, age ion, based in Houston. a promising career, said Army Staff 20, a PRT Security Force driver and “Within just a few short days of Sgt. Eric Mishanski, a squad leader. gunner, was killed while driving his arrival he became an integral “I took young Derek under my Hagerty’s vehicle. part of our team and one of my wing as I think we all did. We During the ceremony, the Soldiers closest confidants,” said Army Maj. trained, developed, and led him into were remembered by the PRT com- Jesus Rodriguez, a PRT Gardez the man and solider he was becom- mander and other team members team leader. “His knowledge about ing,” said Mishanski. “He was as being a true professionals and civil affairs doctrine, as well as his always the first person learning the friends. tactical expertise and proficiency, language, engaging in conversation “I, for one, will remember them as made him an outstanding civil with the locals, or his favourite -- courageous professionals, bravely affairs operator. Yet, his warm, non- passing out candy to the children.” performing a difficult and challeng- pretentious, easy-going, humorous After the comments from friends ing task,” said Air Force Lt. Col. personality made him someone who and colleagues, 1st Sgt. Reginald Brett Sharp, PRT Gardez com- people could easily open up to.” Parham, PRT Gardez’s first sergeant, mander. Holland is remembered by his called the formation to attention for Hagerty was born in Muskogee, teammates for his positive attitude a ceremonial roll call, emphasizing Okla. and grew up in Stillwater, and sense of humour. He was a key the loss of their teammates. Okla. He entered the Army as an part in keeping motivation high in For the sacrifices Hagerty and active duty infantryman in 1983 his platoon. Although his time in Holland made for their country, they upon graduation from Stillwater the military was very short, he was were posthumously awarded Bronze High School and later became an Air a contributing member of his team. Stars and Purple Hearts. Defence Artillery crewman. After He drove an up-armored vehicle in “Today, our fallen heroes look 10 years of active duty service, he over 50 convoys across Paktya and upon us to take up the torch and transferred to the Army Reserves, also supported the team as a gunner. complete the work which they have received a degree from Oklahoma He was a vital part of the mobility started,” said Chaplain (Capt.) State University and earned his of the unit. Jonathan Entrekin, 1-61 Calvary commission. Born in Bethlehem, Penn., Hol- Squadron’s chaplain. In 2004, he transferred to civil land graduated from Pen Argyl High “May our resolve be strengthened affairs and was on his third de- School in June 2006 and enlisted and may we follow their lead in ployment after serving in Iraq and in the Army as a generator repair- ushering in ‘good’ to the people of Uganda, Africa. He was deployed man the following April. He was Afghanistan.” from the 451st Civil Affairs Battal- assigned to Bravo Company 3rd
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 7 Regional command north +
First Joint Training Between Germans and Afghans
or the first time, joint train- ing between soldiers of the FGerman Quick Reaction Force (DEU QRF) and Afghan com- rades of the 1 Kandak of 209 ANA Corps took place in Camp Shaheen. Medical training of all forces was on the schedule. Recovery of wounded comrades from vehicles, recovery and transport procedures as well as application of dressing were part of this training. Split in three trainings groups, about 70 Afghan soldiers were interested, motivated and eager as they accepted hints and tips of their German comrades. “Demonstrate, explain, copy and practice, ” this training principle preters were present. training, “I am very satisfied with again proved its worth, though First Lieutenant Ajar Arsalam, today’s training. We should repeat now and then language problems platoon leader of the Afghan infan- such joint training in the future.” emerged despite the fact that inter- try platoon stated at the end of the
Counter-IED Training of QRF uring pre-deployment to Mazar-e training, soldiers are Sharif in order Dtrained to combat Impro- to train the vised Explosive Devices (IED). This trainers of malicious weapon is increasingly QRF. employed by terrorists and oppos- Over sev- ing militant forces against patrols, eral days, they vehicles and personnel of the Inter- transferred national Security Assistance Force their extensive (ISAF). And these opposing forces knowledge to constantly develop advanced, state- QRF with their of-the-art techniques. In order to en- main effort be- able the military personnel to defend ing practice. against IED attacks, they perma- Close to nently undergo training. Experience Camp MAR- and lessons learned are exchanged MAL, QRF together with Swedish gunner and trained EOD screener between the nations and are being ISAF soldiers had the chance to ben- drew his personal conclusion at the included into the training. efit from the mission-experienced end of the training, “I am happy Based at HQ ISAF in Kabul are comrades. In hands-on training they that I attended this training. We got Counter-IED specialists, who on placed mock-up IEDs, extended real-life tips – for reality. New to me request train military personnel of their knowledge of the 5/25 proce- was the training “from the enemy’s all nations. dure and scouted the terrain for suit- viewpoint.” Captain Remy R. of the French able locations for the employment During the coming weeks all Army is one of these specialists. To- of IED. soldiers of the QRF will receive this gether with two comrades he came Private First Class Daniel P, MF-4 important training.
8 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 Change of Command in Mazar-e Sharif
he handover of command German Operations command, my special gratitude.” of Regional Command Major General Rainr Glatz, passed And to you, comrades of the 17th TNorth (RC-N) and the the front to the sound of the nieder- German Contingent I wish all the 16th German Contingent to ISAF ländischen Prasentiermarsch (Dutch best, the necessary soldier’s luck took place July 9, 2008 in Mazar-e- Inspection Tune). and a successful time. Take the Sharif. After that the outgoing com- chance to make something special Numerous guests from politics, mander addressed his soldiers for out of it.” the Afghan National Army, local po- the very last time, “Though the past After being awarded the NATO lice and media as well as the Com- months have been very demanding, Medal and the Bundeswehr Service manders of the Provincial Recon- partly difficult, but primarily busy I Medal, General McKiernan and struction Teams attended the official do not want to miss the experiences Major General Glatz discharged the ceremony. I made and the impressions I gained, outgoing commander of the com- After the marching in of the Guard especially our joint achievements.” mand of RC-North and of the 16th of Honour, provided by personnel of At the end of his speech, BG German Contingent to ISAF and the German Quick Reaction Force, Dammjacob once again thanked the transferred responsibility to Briga- the Commander RC-N, Briga- soldiers of the 16th German Contin- dier General Jürgen Weigt. dier General Dieter Dammjacob, gent. “With admiration and pride I At home in Germany Brigadier reported the parade formation to look at what you performed during General Weigt is Commander of the American Commander of the your tour of duty. You have been Armoured Brigade 21 “Lipperland” International Security Assistance outstanding representatives of the in Augustdorf. He is married and has Force (ISAF), General David D. Federal Republic of Germany in this two children. McKiernan. country and in impressive manner Immediately after the roll call a Then the two generals together contributed to the stabilization of reception took place in the PAX area with the Deputy Commander of Afghanistan. For that you deserve of Air wing Mazar-e Sharif.
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 9 images from afghanistan
10 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 Background: Lower Left: Lower Right: ISAF personnel enjoy a Sunday An ISAF soldier greets local An ISAF soldier “high-fives” with chai tea and pastries along- Afghan village children while on children during a community side local Afghan venders. patrol. relations visit.
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 11 COmisaf change of command General David D. McKiernan Assumes Command of ISAF
Story by Tech. Sgt. Todd Wivell, U.S. Air Force ISAF HQ PAO
s the 40 national flags side our Afghan hosts and brothers ally enable them to serve and defend waved in the slight morn- to work toward a common compre- this country themselves.” Aing breeze, as the band hensive set of goals,” said General As the commander of JFC played their tunes of Ruffles and McKiernan in his change of com- Brunssum, General Ramms presided Flourishes and the Star Spangled mand speech. over the actual change of command Banner, the ISAF change of com- “While today marks a transition between General McNeill and Gen- mand ceremony began. June 3 in the commanders, the mission eral McKiernan. marked another significant event in must continue without missing a “General McKiernan now takes the history of ISAF Headquarters beat. Support to the government of up the challenge of commanding as General David D. McKiernan, Afghan in bringing security, re- the men and women of ISAF,” said U.S. Army, assumed command from construction and development and General Ramms. “I am confident General Dan K. McNeill. effective governments to the coun- that he will waste no time in search- General McKiernan has been try of Afghanistan and its people ing out new opportunities to exploit, in the U.S. Army for 36 years and deserve no less. and build upon the impressive work has served in every capacity from “Insurgents, foreign fighters, of his predecessors. platoon leader to numbered Army criminals and others who stand in “Although I recognize insecurity commander in Europe, CONUS, the way of that mission will be dealt cannot be overcome by military Korea and Southwest Asia. with. I come committed to leading means alone, I believe ISAF is now His deployment experiences in- ISAF in accomplishing our ranges better placed than ever to facilitate clude, but are not limited to, Sara- of mission.” the necessary stability for economic jevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Albania Those in attendance of today’s and social development and to and Kosovo. In September 2002, he change of command included the cooperate with UNAMA and – more assumed command of the Third U.S. President of Afghanistan, Ahmid important – the Government of the Army and U.S. Army Forces Central Karzai, the commander of the Joint Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Command, and became the Coali- Forces Command (JFC) Brunssum, with an integrated approach in the tion Forces Land Component Com- General Egon Ramms and com- frame work of the Afghan compact mander for COMCENT in prepara- mander of the Supreme Allied to implement the Afghanistan Na- tion for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Commander Europe, General John tional Development Strategy.” In March 2003, General McKi- Craddock. General McNeill relieves his com- ernan commanded all coalition and “General McKiernan, welcome to mand of the ISAF HQ after a 16 U.S. conventional ground forces that Afghanistan,” said President Karzai. month tour of duty. Although this is attacked into Iraq to remove Saddam “Your tasks will not be easy, you not his first time in Afghanistan, he Hussein from power. tasks will be difficult and I am sure served as Commander of the Coali- In his most recent assignment, as good of a soldier you are, you tion forces from 2002 through 2003, General McKiernan was the Com- will serve it well. Together with the this will be his last as he is due to manding General, U.S. Army Eu- Afghan officers, Ministry of De- retire in July after 40 years of com- rope and Seventh Army. fense and the Chief of the Afghan missioning in the U.S. Army. “I am humble to join the ranks of Army you will work to promote the “It has been indeed my privilege the fine men and women of ISAF standards to the Afghan Army, you to have the honor to serve in this and I am honored to serve along will equip them better and eventu- alliance and to serve the people of
12 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 “While today marks a transition in the commanders, the mission must continue without missing a beat.”
- General David D. McKiernan
Afghanistan,” said General McNeill short time ago both were virtually cilitating Afghanistan’s reconstruc- in his outgoing speech. non-existent. Progress is resound- tion and contributing to regional “I offer the people of Afghanistan, ing throughout Afghanistan and will stability. many of whom are my friends, my continue under the new regime of ISAF operations are divided gratitude for the generosity and hos- General McKiernan. among five regional commands pitality that you have shown me. My The ISAF mission is to conduct (RC) comprising of approximately gratitude goes to the allied soldiers, military operations in the assigned 52,900 troops. RC Capital’s sailors, airmen, Marines and civil- area of operations to assist approximate strength ians for what they have done and the Government of of 5,900, RC what they will continue to do for the Afghanistan in the South’s approxi- people of Afghanistan.” establishment and mate strength Afghanistan today has made many maintenance of of 23,800, RC progresses since the Taliban era and a safe and West’s approxi- under General McNeill’s command secure mate strength during the past 16 months. More envi- of 2,500, RC than six million children, to include ron- North’s approxi- two million girls, are now going to ment mate strength of school. Seventy-eight percent of the with full en- 4,300 and RC Afghan people have access to health gagement of East’s approxi- care compared to eight percent Afghan Na- mate strength of during the Taliban era. There are tional Security 16,400. now 35 district centers and another Forces, in order 53 under construction when at one to extend govern- time there were no district centers at ment authority and all. There are six television stations influence, and 104 radio stations when just a thereby fa-
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 13 Interview with General David D. McKiernan
hat are some of the You commanded all coalition and using as a base of operations. They major changes/initia- US ground forces that attacked into have safe refuge there and camps to Wtives you plan to imple- Iraq and removed Saddam Hussein train, equip, and launch cross border ment as the new COMISAF? from power, What will be different attacks against our forces. Until we from this deployment versus that can eliminate this refuge we cannot We are putting a renewed em- deployment? significantly reduce the violence in phasis on the shape, clear, hold, Afghanistan. and build strategy. Too often in the Afghanistan is very different than So while on the surface it may past our troops would go in, clear Iraq. In Iraq you previously had a seem like we are facing insurgency an area and then have to withdraw strong central government, a func- problems similar to those in Iraq, it before follow on conditions were tioning bureaucracy at all levels, becomes very quickly apparent that set. It would not take long for the educated and experienced civil it is a whole different world here and insurgents to filter back into the area servants, and for the most part a will require its own unique solution. and eventually we would have to go literate populace. We have none of back in to clear it out again which that in Afghanistan. We are literally The mission of ISAF is to support would cause more casualties and starting almost from scratch. The the government of Afghanistan in more damage to the local villages. lack of human capital in this coun- bringing security, reconstruction, What we need to do is maintain our try is one of the biggest challenges development and effective govern- presence after we have cleared the we face. The literacy rate in rural ments to this country. How do you area and set the conditions that will areas is about 5%. There is no one plan on accomplishing that mis- allow for development and recon- that knows how to administer local sion? struction to occur. This is vital to governments and provide necessary increase stability and give local services, no one to create the power ISAF is in the lead for security. governance a chance to take hold. grids, and no one to be the police We play a supporting role in extend- That is truly the best way to protect chief or the mayor. This is an issue ing governance and development. against a resilient insurgency. that can only be solved by time and This comprehensive approach must Building the capacity of the educational. There is no quick fix achieve complementary effects. Afghan government and the Afghan here, it is a generational problem. The key to long term security is to security forces is the key to our long Tribal loyalties here are centuries enable the Afghans to provide it term success. I am often asked what old and are considerably stronger for themselves. We are putting a winning is. My answer is winning is than any loyalties to a central considerable effort into training the when Afghanistan has a government government in far off Kabul. The army and police forces. We do not capable of providing for its people intricacies of the tribal traditions in just give them initial training in an and a security force capable of pro- this country are something that no academy, but we follow them out tecting its people. That is when we westerner can understand, but it is at into the field. We embed trainers will know we can begin to step back the core of their culture and drives into the active units to continue the into a supporting role and, eventu- so many their actions. That said, I training and mentorship that will ally, begin to leave. Until then, our find the Afghan people courageous, produce a coherent, professional role is to train the Afghan security tough, values-based, and well worth fighting force. The Afghan Army is forces and make them into the most our presence and sacrifices. The a true success story and it continues capable force possible. And we will vast majority of Afghans do not fa- to make incredible progress. Unfor- also support UNAMA and the rest vor the insurgency, and do not want tunately we have not had the same of the international community in a return of the Taliban to power. success with the police force, but we their roles of building governance You also cannot look at Afghani- have made adjustments and we are at both the national and local level stan in isolation. This is a regional continuing forward. But we need and expanding reconstruction and problem and there can be no solu- more trainers and more troops to development. tion in Afghanistan without solv- embed with the field units. ing the issue of the tribal areas in We have also expanded the area Pakistan. The FATA, the Northwest where our own forces are operating. Frontier Province, and Baluchistan In areas that insurgents once roamed are areas where the Taliban, Al freely ISAF forces are now entering Qaeda, and other insurgents are and securing. As expected this is
14 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 causing an increase in violence and weapons we have here. The Afghan long time. But if we work together, casualties, but our hope is that this is people are the center of gravity in if we focus our efforts, if we speak a temporary increase and as we clear everything we do. Without their with one voice, we can and we will and hold these new areas, develop- support and approval we cannot suc- be successful. Again, the future of ment will take root and local gov- ceed. We must be able to effectively the Afghan people and the regional ernance will grow and with it peace communicate to them our intentions effects of this campaign are worth and stability. and the true results of our actions. our sacrifices. Bottom line, there is no military The insurgents do not need to worry solution to the problems here. It about the truth and have so far been Where do you see the future of doesn’t matter how many insurgents more successful at spreading their the ISAF camp Headquarters, we confront, they will not run out lies. We cannot allow their misin- will we continue to see it grow or of manpower. We need a political formation to continue to degrade the can we expect to someday in the solution here. We will continue with local populace’s support for us. We near future turn it back over to the our security operations, but we will will be more aggressive and we will Afghan people and move our camp also strongly support the interna- get the true story out so that the Af- elsewhere or collocate with another tional community’s efforts to expand ghan people see what the insurgents unit already out here? governance and development. are really doing to their country. Progress here will be based on the It will be almost 2 months to the ability of the Afghan government to day of your change of command increase its capacity and effective- that this publication will hit the ness and it will be dependent on the stands, in that period what are continuing support of the interna- some changes you have implement- tional community and the Afghan ed and why? people’s continued willingness to accept our mission. What happens The two biggest changes we have to this camp will be a decision for made are 1) the increased focus on the political leadership of NATO. having the Afghan Army lead in operations and 2) strategic commu- Any closing comments? nications. Whenever possible our goal is to What we are doing here is impor- have Afghan forces lead our op- tant for the Afghan people but it is erations. They know the terrain, also important for our own national they know the people, and they security, whatever country you are understand how the insurgents will from. The terrorists who attacked operate. And by leading I don’t the United States in 2001, Spain in mean just on the battle field, I mean 2004, London in 2005, and count- the entire operation right from the less other plots around the world are beginning of the planning stage. operating training camps just across That is the best way to increase their What advice would you like to pass the border in Pakistan. No one here capabilities. And in cases where on to the soldiers, sailors, airmen should have any doubt about the they are not yet ready to lead, we and Marines of ISAF? threat that exists or the willingness integrate them into the operation and desire of these people to cause to the maximum extent possible. I The most important thing I would more havoc, death, and destruction, am less interested in hearing reports say is that I am here for the long not just here in Afghanistan, but in from my field commanders about haul and I am here to win. I am not our homes. Although we are what how ISAF forces performed, I want going to ask anyone to do anything seems like a world away, failure to hear what they did to integrate that I am not willing to do and I am here will have devastating conse- Afghan forces into the operation. not looking for the easy way out. quences back home. Simply put, My other big concern is the infor- We will not delude anyone; the task failure here is not an option. mation war. Strategic communica- we have in front of us is going to tions are one of the most important be difficult and it is going to take a
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 15 success stories from around afghanistan
Canadian Reconstruction Team Inspect Repairs to Sarpoza Prison
Story by Petty Officer 1st Class John Collins, US Navy ISAF HQ PAO
andahar, Afghanistan - The Canadian Provincial resulting from the attack on the prison, including re- KReconstruction Team in Kandahar paid a visit to Sar- building of the facility’s gates, walls, and towers. poza Prison in Kandahar City, Afghanistan to inspect the “Canada is committed to working with local Afghan completed 50 meters of temporary blast resistant wall and authorities to ensure that Sarpoza Prison is rebuilt as 6 meter re-enforced steal gate. The repairs began shortly quickly as possible,” The Honourable David Emer- after the June 13 attack on the prison and finished on June son, Minister of Foreign Affairs said. “Our support for 24. emergency repairs, combined with longer-term infra- According to a 26 June press release from the Embassy structure projects, equipment and ongoing mentoring of Canada to Afghanistan, Canada is providing $4 million and training initiatives, will build on the good work in funding to the reconstruction effort. Up to $2 million of already begun.” this funding will directly support urgently needed repairs
Twenty-Four Afghans Graduate First EOD Course
abul, Afghanistan - Twenty- “I am very proud today to serve General Shir Mahammad Karimy, Kfour Afghan students graduated for the security of Afghanistan. I Director of Operations for the Min- from the first explosive ordnance hope civilian and authorities con- istry of Defence. disposal school class for Afghan tinue to support this course,” said ISAF’s liaison officer, French Army National Security Forces at Camp Mohammed Ahmadi, the top gradu- Captain Pascal Meynet, added, “The Shaneen July 10. ate of the class. school is important because the The students from both Afghan “Today we are very happy the students are learning to save lives, National Police and Afghan National Afghan National Army and Afghan which is important to the freedom of Army had successfully finished 26 National Police are working in Afghanistan.” weeks of training to learn how to cooperation of this course to dif- safety disarm and dispose of explo- fuse IEDs throughout our country sives, to include IEDs. to support our people,” said Afghan
PRT Lowgar and the Ministry of Agriculture Train Farmers in Pol-E-Alam District
he Ministry of Agriculture commenced training and students will receive a starter kit which they are al- Tmaterials for 20 new farmers to start honey produc- lowed to keep. Under ideal circumstances, each hive tion, and training for 20 additional farmers to improve can produce up to 100kg of honey per year selling for their honey production. $5 per kg. The honey business has a long tradition in The three-month trai ning started in the middle of June. Afghanistan, with the first honey bees thought to have Students are paid a monthly stipend of $25 for regularly originated in the region. Lowgar province is especially attending the training. The training consists of theory well known for honey production all over Afghan- and practical training on the bee farm. Upon graduation, istan.
16 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 success stories from around afghanistan Royal Canadian Mounted Police Train Afghan Security Forces
Story & Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class John Collins, US Navy ISAF HQ PAO
andahar, Afghanistan National Police training that they rural areas doing jobs that are nor- -Afghanistan’s security de- don’t get at their academy. “What mally done by light infantry.” Kpends on an effective police we’re trying to do is supplement The ANP is not the only force force. Police tend to spend more the existing training they are get- benefiting from the expertise of the time with people in their communi- ting at the regional training centers,” Canadian police, members of the Af- ties and are more familiar with the McAllister said. ghan Security Detail June 25 com- region than other national security The Canadian police spend about pleted a four-day course designed to forces. a week training the ANP and cover improve their tactics in protective The Royal Canadian Mounted such topics such as combat shooting, services. Police is helping the Afghan people advanced first aid and IED aware- “Providing close protection train- to achieve a peaceful and secure ness. ing to select members of the ANP country through the training of the “We are here to train a professional increases the level of personal se- Afghan National Police and official police force,” McAllister explains. curity for many government leaders government security details. “Not everyone is a bad guy here, and commanders,” Royal Canadian “The police are key to a stable and the police have to engage their Mounted Police Constable Jeff government,” said Joe McAllister, community on all levels, not just to Hirsch said. “The intense training the RCMP’s acting contingent com- fight the Taliban but also to get to sessions bond the close protection mander. “If the police are a trust know their community through foot teams together and give them basic worthy force then the people will patrols, which gets them to interact skill sets to properly plan routes trust their security to the govern- with people on a daily bases and not and site visits which will hopefully ment and not turn to the Taliban. If just when bad things happen.” enhance their mobility throughout the police can improve their image It’s hard work, but the commitment Kandahar province. The police in the community then it will help to help extends through the ranks of selected for this training are highly improve the government’s image.” the program’s training staff. motivated and often show up early, More than three hundred police “I love doing this,” an undercover stay late.” and other government forces have RCMP officer said. “I am passion- “We learned a lot of things this gone through training at the Kan- ate about training the Afghans in week,” government body guard dahar Provincial Reconstruction advanced tactics so they can go out Mohammed Shaker said. “I wish Team since the start of the program and defeat terrorism. The police are we had more time to train with the in the spring of 2007. At the PRT, at the pointy end of the spear here Canadian police and hope to train Canadian police give to the Afghan in Afghanistan as they are out in the more with them in the future.”
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 17 Afghan National Army Air Corps Conduct Successful Missions
abul, Afghanistan – The and will endeavour to offer ANAAC part of the Combined Airpower Afghan National Army Air flights on a more regular basis in the Transition Force Afghanistan KCorps (ANAAC) completed future,” said, Lieutenant Colonel (CAPTF-A). another ISAF mission late June, Hal Brandenburg, Chief of ITAS. “These missions represent a transporting 2,390 kilograms of Four Antonov AN-32 “Cline” air- significant milestone in which the ISAF supplies between Kandahar craft were acquired by the ANAAC ANAAC is helping ISAF conduct and Kabul. to complement its fleets of AN-26 missions in support of rebuilding The ANAAC supports the ISAF fixed-wing cargo aircraft, MI-17 their nation, achieving another step intra-theatre air support system, and MI-35 helicopters, and L-39 jet towards self-sufficiency,” said U.S. known as ITAS, which manages the aircraft. The AN-32 is an all-weather Air Force pilot Christopher Lyons, movement of freight and people by transport aircraft that is suited to fly- a mentor to the fixed-wing squadron aircraft throughout Afghanistan for ing missions in Afghanistan’s tough commander. ISAF. environment. Re-establishment of an effec- “Recently ITAS has added some The ANAAC is currently being tive Army Air Corps is a national ANAAC flights to our schedule. We trained and mentored by the Air priority for the Government of the are proud to have added these flights Corps Advisory Group (ACAG), Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
18 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 Special Forces Physicians Save Afghan Girl
Story & Photo by Sgt. Daniel Love, same time as Col. David Holck, one scan of Gulzana’s head to gauge Combined Joint Special Operations of the Air Force’s two best optical the size and location of the tumor. Task Force, Public Affairs surgeons.” Like most children, she didn’t seem On the morning of July 7, Dr. to like being in the hospital, but n a warm morning in early Holck began his trek from Baghdad she was patient and allowed the June, a worried Abdullah to Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan medical staff at Bagram’s hospital OHaqim walked with his via military resupply flights. Dr. to examine her and plan the required daughter into the weekly Coalition Holck is chairman of ophthalmology surgery. The tumor had spread from medical clinic in Farah, Afghanistan. at Wilford Hall, Lackland Air Force her retina to other parts of her eye, 6 year-old Gulzana was sick and Base, Texas. Throughout the same but had not yet affected her skull or local Afghan doctors could not di- brain. agnose or treat the painful swelling “Based on her scan, we could that had engulfed her left eye. see that the situation was a little The loving father watched with better than we had hoped for,” said a worried expression as a U.S. Holck. “You can’t beat the positive Special Forces doctor examined outcome of something like this; all the tumor that covered her eye. He we have to do is our job, but we was worried because insurgents in also get the opportunity to make a the area had warned him that Coa- difference in a child’s life.” lition doctors would not help his The following day, Gulzana was daughter, and may even hurt her. on an operating table, surrounded “This wasn’t the type of thing we by Air Force and Army doctors. could treat at the weekly clinic,” a The operation lasted 2 hours, but Special Forces doctor said. “Most when it was finished, she looked of our patients here require more like a new kid. The tumor that had basic assistance. Her case required spread from her eye was gone, and advanced medical care as quickly her eyelid could close. She woke as we could provide it, so we had up with bandages on her face and to start making plans right away if with her happy father holding her we were to have a chance of saving hand. her.” Gulzana and her father will tem- Gulzana had an orbital tumor porarily live at Bagram Air Field as growing from her eye which was she recovers. Her smile warms the expanding to her cheek and eye hearts of the Special Forces Sol- brow. In a developing country such day, Gulzana and her father travelled diers who monitor her recovery, and as Afghanistan, a child with such 14 hours on a bus to Bagram to meet the worried look on her father’s face an affliction has an extremely low with the doctor. Haqim, carrying is gone. chance of survival. Soon after the a makeshift travel bag made from “Her mother is gone and she has American doctor looked at her, he a bed sheet, finally met the doctor had enough pain in her life,” said began coordinating a plan to save that would save his daughters life. Haqim. “I’m happy that the Ameri- her. Medics changed Gulzana’s bandages cans showed so much care for her “We saw this as a case where we and she received a teddy bear from and that she is getting better. Before, could make a difference in a child’s adoring U.S. troops but she shied we were so worried but now every- life, so we had to act,” said a Special away from the attention. thing has changed and she will have Forces doctor. “It took some effort, The next day, Holck and other a chance to grow up and be hap- but we arranged for Gulzana and coalition doctors performed a com- py.” her father to arrive here around the puterized axial tomography (CAT)
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 19 Regional command SOUTH + Zabul Governor Holds Districts Accountable for Security
alat, Afghanistan – QThe Zabul provin- cial governor and his chief of police met late May with district ad- ministrators and village elders from Shamulzay, Shinkay and Nawba- har districts to discuss security, reconstruction and development in the province. Also present were Af- ghan National Army and Afghan National Police district representatives. As each district administrator stood to discuss their respective issues, a common theme developed: The districts need projects to improve security. Each district administra- not wait for them to attack us. This I will do my part by bringing in the tor was quick to ensure Governor is how we will improve security projects.” Delbar Jan Arman and provincial in Zabul. You are responsible to Governor Arman closed the meet- chief of police Col. Mohammed care for your children. If you don’t ing with some simple guidance. Yaqoub said that the districts would fight for your children, what are “One thing is very important,” he provide security for contractors who you thinking? Parents need to think said. “Every week in each district, come to work on projects. However, about the future of their children.” the police chief, the district adminis- one shura member pointed out, if “We know that Zabul has a rich trator, the ANA commander and the the contractors want a good salary, and deep culture and heritage,” said embedded training team commander they need to accept the risks that Air Force Lt. Col. Bryce Brakman, must meet to discuss security in come with working in an unsecured Zabul Provincial Reconstruction their district. After that, they need environment. Team commander. “There’s a strong to sit with the elders in their district. The problem, they said, is several tradition here of hard work and Without coordinating together, we incomplete projects, overcrowded self-reliance. However, security can’t do anything to improve secu- schools and no place for the police; continues to be a major issue, one rity. I’m proud of the ANA and all if they could get projects started to that limits your projects and your they’ve done for the government; I include district centers and police development. ask that they work with the police to headquarter buildings, they could “A wise man once said that even improve security.” fight the enemy more effectively. big, strong doors swing on small The shura was held on Forward Zabul governor Delbar Jan Ar- hinges; security is that small hinge Operating Base Sweeney and hosted man put his concerns bluntly. “Our that impacts everything,” he added. by Army Lt. Col. Darrell Wilson, enemy has no mercy on us,” he said. “I ask you to continue your tradition senior mentor to the 2nd Brigade, “We have to fight against them. of self-reliance and help by assisting 205th Corps. We need to go after the enemy and in establishing security in your area.
20 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 Opium Farming Hard Habit to Break Here
Story by Nick Allen
arin Kowt, Afghanistan – A you shouldn’t be surprised if they will plant accordingly for next sea- cartoon skeleton dangles by turn against you,” said Major Piet, a son, while both sides in the opium Tthe neck from a noose of Dutch army reservist who is tasked struggle are trying to pull the farm- opium poppy stem and passers-by with providing alternative liveli- ers in their direction. are warned in the Pashtu language hoods to farmers. “This is a very opportune moment that the drug flower is killing Af- “They don’t grow poppy as a for us to lure people from poppy to ghanistan. statement that they are for the Tali- wheat,” the major said. “But it’s also While the billboard brings a ban and against ISAF, they just need a good opportunity for opponents in splash of colour to a dusty street in the money,” said Piet, who like all the poppy camp to loan them money the central Uruzgan province, to tide them over.” it’s unlikely to keep farmers But increasing wheat produc- from the cash crop that sustains tion alone isn’t enough, experts their families and, according to “The drug trade is under- say, stressing the need for an the United Nations, provided cutting efforts to establish a array of alternative options. Taliban insurgents with 100 stable democracy...” Last year Dutch developers million US dollars in 2007 brought 100,000 almond trees through unofficial taxation of to Uruzgan and set up seed the industry. - US State Department distribution and cultivation “Last year Afghanistan programmes for cultivation of produced about 8,000 tonnes cucumbers, cauliflower, paprika, of opium,” Antonio Maria Costa, members of the Dutch contingent saffron and other viable crops. head of the UN Office on Drugs uses only his first name for security Demonstration farms must prove and Crime, said in a confirmation of reasons. to farmers that it’s worth risking a the broad failure of efforts to curb So far, efforts to promote other determined shift away from poppy poppy farming since the Taliban’s crops failed because farmers could and that will take a few years of ouster from power in 2001. only secure essential micro-credits successive yields of other crops, not Worth an estimated 1 billion dol- from local creditors by growing just one good show harvest. lars, the yield is one third more than more opium. But the final choice of national in 2006 and nearly double the level Far removed from the debate strategy must come from Kabul and of 2005. The Afghan opium crop about the drug trade and its conse- soon, says Washington. now accounts for 93 percent of the quences, farmers in key production “The Afghan government must world’s total heroin production. areas across the country are prag- take decisive action against poppy Further filling the coffers of the matic about which seeds they sow. cultivation soon to turn back the Islamic militia’s in its fight against Until now high opium prices made drug threat before its further growth the 40-country International Secu- wheat less attractive. This year, and consolidation make it even more rity Assistance Force (ISAF), the however, there is a chance to turn difficult to defeat,” the US State Taliban find ready work protecting things around amid a sharp fall in Department said in a report released opium refining laboratories and opium prices, thought to be due to in March. escorting cargos across the border, oversupply and a rise in domestic “The drug trade is undercutting ef- Costa told the BBC. wheat prices owing to an interna- forts to establish a stable democracy But in Uruzgan as in other prov- tional shortage. with a licit economic free market,” inces, earlier moves to destroy the In Uruzgan, opium fell from 80 it stressed, acknowledging that the poppies – led mainly by the United to 50 dollars a kilo, and for the first problem was exacerbated by drug States - only alienated farmers and time in years, farmers would profit related corruption and criminal in- pushed them to the militants as eco- more from a field of swaying yellow volvement among state officials. nomic refugees. instead of the blue, white and mauve “If you are trying to win the hearts flowers they have cultivated as their and minds of people but instead con- main crop. demn them to famine and poverty, Many working the fields say they
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 21 Regional command west + Farah City Library Breaks Ground
Story by Gina Gillespie
arah’s new Governor, Ruhullamin, recently planted Fthe seeds of learning as he laid the ground stone for a new library in Farah City. “A library is the most important thing in a community, because information about our history is contained inside books. It is very important for communities to safe- guard their culture,” he said. Joining the Governor at the ground- breaking ceremony was Farid Ayoubi Ahmad, Director of Culture, Information and Youth, Provin- cial Council Members, Director of Women’s Affairs, Provincial Recon- The second floor will have male as well as meeting several times struction Team (PRT) Farah repre- and female reading rooms, a refer- with Mr. Ahmad in Farah City to sentatives and various government ence room, a staff room, a foyer, a learn their needs and desires. officials. librarian’s office, and 20 to 25 book “Since my arrival in Afghanistan, “Education and learning are for stacks. The facility will also include I wondered what we could do to the young generation what water men’s and women’s public latrines make the biggest impact. The idea and oxygen are for plants in terms and an outdoor courtyard filled with of education was always logical of nurturing and growth,” says Farid flowers and plants, where people can because it’s something that you’re Ayoubi Ahmad. sit and read. paying for now, but you may not The infrastructure and furnishings Chief Petty Officer James Brown see the benefits from it for genera- for the library will be funded by of the United States Navy, was the tions. You definitely need an edu- PRT Farah, through the Command- motivating force behind the new cated electorate for a democracy to er’s Emergency Response Program. library. He read about the free librar- work, so a library goes along with Additional funding will be sought ies built by Andrew Carnegie 100 the whole educational push that I’ve through NGOs and other interested years ago in America, and thought been making since I got here, along parties to provide books and com- that the concept could work in Af- with the PRT,” says Chief Brown. puters. There are currently 3,000 ghanistan as well. “He went a long The library will be managed by books being stored in Herat, wait- way towards promoting literacy a librarian, under the direction of ing for space to become available in in America with those libraries. the Director of Education and the Farah City. We weren’t far ahead of where the Director of Information, Culture and A cobblestone path will guide the Afghans are now in the big scheme Youth. The project is expected to reader into the two-storey build- of things. You wouldn’t have to go be self-sustaining based on income ing. The gorund floor will house too far back to see a situation where generated from pre-existing adjoin- a conference room, in addition to our literacy rate was just as low as ing shop rental income, as well as offices for Sistan Newspaper, Farah theirs is now,” he says. Chief Brown fees paid for specialty book rentals. magazine, the Youth Empowerment researched the project, visiting the The year-long project will employ Program, the Information, Culture Director of Information and Culture 30 men. and Youth Director, and a secretary. in Herat to learn about their library,
22 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 Afghanistan National Taekwondo Federation Visit
Story & Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class John Collins, U.S Navy ISAF HQ PAO
he Afghanistan National with technique. Many of the ISAF I think martial arts are about getting Taekwondo Federation students are at a much lower level to know and improve yourself. I T(ANTF) visited ISAF in June of Taekwondo and seemed to benefit felt so awkward and slow today,” to meet and exercise with students from the training. continued Hellerforth. “The Afghan of French Lieutenant and Taekwon- “It felt great working out with National Taekwondo student was do master J-Christophe Damaisin them and it made me realize how so helpful and patient. He showed D’Ares. The Afghan team consisted much more I need to work on my me the moves again and again and of junior and senior members and form,” U.S. Air Force Major Eric again. It showed being a teacher is included 2007 world silver medalist Cook said. “It was great to get the no question of age.” and Olympic hopeful Nesar Ahmad chance to work out with athletes of The success of the ANTF is a sign Bahawi. The Olympic hopeful Olympic caliber who are going to that Afghanistan is moving away greeted the ISAF students with a China and have a chance to win a from their history of war and suf- warm smile and a friendly hand- medal.” fering and moving toward a life of shake. The mentoring lasted for about peace and prosperity. “I like ISAF because they are thirty minutes and was given by “I think today was an interesting helping Afghanistan to recover from both the senior and junior ANTF experience because in Afghanistan the war,” ANTF Olympic hopeful athletes. Even though some of the there isn’t a lot for the people to be Nesar Ahmad Bahawi said. “I am junior athletes were a bit younger proud of on an international level here to help ISAF members with than the ISAF students, the age and they have a real chance at a their Taekwondo. They are new, so difference didn’t seem to lessen the medal at the Beijing Olympics,” we taught some small things like experience. Damaisin D’Ares said. “If they kicking and small techniques.” “It was a great experience,” Ger- win, the Afghanistan people will be The ANTF spent a couple of hours man Captain Michael Hellerforth known all over the world not only running the multinational students said. “The chance to meet real because of the war, but for once they through a series of drills followed champions and train with them was will be known for a positive by one on one mentoring to help a humbling and learning experience. event.”
ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008 23 24 ISAF MIRROR JULY 2008