q Flooding assistance q More ISAF-ANSF C-IED q ANA Air Corps wheels up q PRTs aid local communities In this month’s Mirror August 2007 Contents

Staff Sgt. Timothy Jones 4 NATO & HQ ISAF Cover unpacks shoes donated to q street children at Kabul’s New parliamentarians briefed Global Point Afghanistan 16 RC-South June 23. q UN, NATO chart ISAF approach Photo by Technical Sgt. James Fisher q Bulgarians take FP at KAF The ISAF Mirror is a HQ ISAF Public Information product. Articles, where q Citizens foil suicide bombing possible, have been kept in their origi- 5 A-10 show of force Helping Kabul nal form. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily q Taliban claims proving hollow kids ...... 17 PRT Qalat reflect official NATO, JFC HQ Brunssum turn to page 10. or ISAF policy. Photo credits are attrib- q Situation in south improves uted to the authors of the submission, unless otherwise stated. Submissions 6 RC-Capital q Taliban use human shields can be e-mailed to: q BGs conduct outreach 12 RC-East 18 4th of July pressoffice@isaf-hq.nato.int Articles should be in MS Word format 7 ANSF focus q Polish BG overcomes q (Arial), photos should be at least 4.5cm American Forces share celebration and 300 dpi resolution. The ISAF Mir- q ANSF, ISAF tackle IEDs language barrier ror is published monthly and aims to 19 Chowreh secured be available by the first Friday of the month. 8-9 OP Shukran 13 Flood relief q ISAF, ANSF take it back q For more information, please call the q ANA Air Corps on display IRoA, ISAF assist in Gayan q Canadians honour Afghan generals editor at 0799 511230. q Ghazni Leaders talk progress The electronic version of this magazine 10 More from RC-C can be downloaded online at: q ISAF troops help NGO, kids 14 Real kiterunners 20 RC-West www.nato.int/isaf q Polish BG provides kites, fun q Kids learn about mine dangers EDITORIAL STAFF 11 RC-North 15 Pech flooding 21 Free clinic in Farah Lieutenant Colonel Maria Carl q Meymaneh activities q ISAF, IRoA help residents q PRT provides medical care Chief, Public Information Technical Sgt. James Fisher 22 Chaghcharan Editor q Op Shukran PRT conducts vaccinations Staff Sgt. L. Ray Winstead Photographer An Afghan National q PRT honours Ghowr governor Army soldier marches into the Musayi val- ley on patrol during 23 Compass Points Operation Shukran in RC-Capital. The event q Canada Day was the first use of ANA Air Corps aircraft q Actor Jude Law visits An Afghan Back boy flies a in an operational ca- pacity. kite in Andar For more on the District, Ghaz- Photo by Sgt. L. Ray Winstead Correction ni province. operation ..... It is the official policy of NATO that cover Photo by Specialist the Former Yugoslav Republic of Mac- Micah E. Clare turn to edonia should be referred to as such in pages 8-9. official publications. In the July edition of the Mirror, there were several references to “Macedonia” made in the story about the football championship at HQ ISAF. These references were incorrect.

2 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 3 NATO and HQ ISAF NATO & HQ An A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft sits ready at Parlimentarians Exercise UN, NATO chart Show of force Bagram Air Field. Photo by Sgt. Ruud Mol get breifed at validates JFC Afghanistan NATO, SHAPE rotation of NATO approach at (News at press time from NATO staff re- ports) From July 8-12, some 50 parliamen- Response Force Rome meeting tarians from NATO and partner countries including Afghanistan and Pakistan will Allied Joint Force Command Headquar- Speaking at a conference in Rome, July meet the Alliance’s top civilian and military ters Naples (JFC Naples) took over com- 3, NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop leaders to get the latest inside views and mand of the latest rotation of the NATO Scheffer said success in Afghanistan re- information on NATO’s operations, roles Response Force (NRF 9) July 1. The change quired the fulfilment of six key priorities. and challenges. of command was validated and certified The priorities are a major increase in The intensive series of meetings is the during Exercise Steadfast Jackpot 2007. development; stepping up training of the Assembly’s eighth New Parliamentarians JFC Naples took over from Allied Joint Afghan army and police; a sustained in- KABUL – ISAF provided an aerial show of force July 2 when “As sometimes happens, all that was needed from the air was Programme, aimed at legislators who are Force Command Headquarters Brunssum ternational military presence; reducing the Taliban extremists attacked the Afghan National Police and inno- a show of force, to secure a situation and deter the enemy,” said new to parliament or who have recently (JFC Brunssum). loss of civilian life and property; engaging cent civilians in a village in Por Chaman district. Lt. Col Maria Carl, ISAF spokesperson. become involved in their parliament’s com- Some 2000 personnel from all 26 NATO Pakistan; and a comprehensive approach Early that morning, the extremists surrounded the village and- Based on a request from the Afghan National Army, ISAF mittees or delegations which deal with in- countries participated in the exercise, which involving civilian and military actors. began firing at the ANP and civilians alike, wounding three police. called in two A-10 aircraft whose show of force resulted in the ternational relations and security. took place simultaneously in Italy, Turkey, Need for more coordination After the aircraft flew over, the extremists reportedly fled. extremists fleeing into the mountains. The Programme is open to legislators Norway and Spain, from 4 to 23 June. “The international efforts to bring from member countries as well as countries The computer-assisted exercise was de- peace and stability to Afghanistan are al- and nations in the Middle East and North signed to validate and certify the chain of ready considerable,” Mr. De Hoop Scheffer a few buildings in remote areas, and then equipment was found. Africa (MENA), but this is the first time command and control elements dedicated told the conference, “But more remains to only for several hours,” Thomas said. Fur- “Successful operations of this nature that the programme has been opened to to NRF 9. be done.” Taliban claims ther, claims June 19 of insurgent control of have an immediate positive affect on the legislators from Afghanistan and Pakistan. Exercise events were based on a ficti- During the conference, the secretary Ghowrak district center were accompanied local population,” Thomas said. In welcoming their involvement, As- tious scenario involving a NATO-led oper- general discussed progress in Afghanistan of capturing with no corraborating evidence. sembly President José Lello (Portugal) said, ation conducted under Chapter VII of the with President Hamid Karzai and UN Sec- “They seem to have no basis in fact,” “The New Parliamentarians Programme is UN Charter. The main focus was to train as retary General Ban Ki-moon. district centers he said. one of the assembly’s success stories. It a Combined and Joint Force. This included the need to step up train- “The enemy, who are unable to win on OP Maiwand provides participants with excellent, up- The NATO Response Force works on a ing of Afghan security forces, the issue of proving hollow the battlefield, seem to be trying to influ- to-date information about NATO which rotational basis, where each member state civilian casualties, and greater coordination HQ ISAF staff reports ence public perception by trying to pull becomes model helps them perform their tasks as parlia- commit forces to go through training and among the international community. KABUL, Afghanistan – ISAF officials “The effective application of a compre- off symbolic stunts that have no military mentarians. certification, to guarantee the permanent challenged June 20 recent Taliban extremist Military planners are saying that Opera- hensive approach by the whole of the inter- value,” Thomas said. Parliamentarians approve defence budg- availability of a combat-ready force. claims of success in taking district centers tion Maiwand is a model for future opera- national community will enable us to win ets and authorize the use of their armed The exercise was organised by JFC Na- in southern Afghanistan, countering that tions throughout the country where the not just the conflict, but also the peace,” he forces in operations. They are also key ples, supported by the Joint Warfare Centre such efforts are only enemy attempts to ANSF will eventually take the lead on all stressed. participants in their own national debates in Stavanger, Norway. The Land Compo- create an impression of strength that is not Search of IED military operations. De Hoop Scheffer and Ban Ki-moon on foreign affairs and international secu- nent Command (Madrid, Spain) deployed backed by an ability to control geographi- The objective was to remove the shad- also discussed the ongoing Security Coun- rity. This Programme ensures that they are 68 people. Other units taking part included cal areas. ow of the former Taliban government and cil discussions on the future status of the factory turns up well-informed about NATO and – equally the NATO Rapid Deployable Corps (Ita- “The enemy may be controlling the to secure the Andar district of Ghazni. Serbian territory of Kosovo. importantly – it allows legislators to express ly), the Air Component Command Head- headlines, but they are not controlling stra- About 600 ANSF forces from the 203rd The conference on rule of law in Af- weapons their own concerns and perspectives direct- quarters (Izmir, Turkey), the UK Maritime tegically significant areas,” said Major John Combined Task Force, supported by Force, the Special Operations Component ghanistan was organized by the Italian gov- ly to the most senior NATO officials”. Thomas, ISAF spokesman. “We have seen HQ ISAF staff reports ISAF’s Task Force Fury conducted opera- Command Headquarters (Spain), and the ernment, which is the G-8 lead nation for Participants will meet NATO’s Secre- hollow claims of Taliban controlling dis- URUZGAN – A suspected improvised tions during which residents were treated Multinational Chemical, Biological, Radio- rule of law in Afghanistan. tary General, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, and trict centers, but when Afghan and ISAF explosive device-making factory was cleared in temporary medical facilities. logical and Nuclear Defence Battalion. the Supreme Allied Commander, General forces move into those areas, the enemy during an operation here June 28. Medical team members also trained 12 John Craddock, as well as several NATO From left to right: Andrea turn and run.” “The clearance of this compound hin- doctors, one pharmacist, two dentists, two ambassadors, assistant secretaries general, Cellino, NATO PA Deputy to The governor of Uruzgan praised ders the ability of the Taliban extremists medics and two veterinarians in skills that and other top officials. the Secretary General for ANSF, militia friendly to the local elders, to make IEDs and bombs used for suicide will benefit the local people and livestock. Legislators from 17 parliaments are partici- Partnerships and External and ISAF forces, for their successful de- bombings that have cause death and injury The goal of Operation Maiwand and other pating. These are: Estonia, Latvia, Lithua- Relations, NATO Secre- fense of the Chowreh district center when to Afghan civilians,” said Major John Tho- such operations is to create conditions tary General, Jaap de Hoop nia, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, he visited there June 20 for a meeting, or mas, ISAF spokesman. so that when ISAF forces leave the area, Scheffer and David Hobbs, Russia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, ‘shura,’ with local leaders. Governor Munib security will be handled by the local district NATO-PA Deputy Secretary ISAF, in support of Afghan National Moldova, Serbia, the Former Yugoslav Re- General during a meeting also thanked the central government. Security Forces, conducted the opera- people with only minimal outside support, public of Macedonia*, Assembly of Kos- with new parlimentarians Any area the extremists have control- tion. During a search of the compound officials said. ovo, Jordan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. July 12. led in Chowreh or Maineshin “has been a number of weapons and bomb-making 4 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 5 Regional Command Capital ANSF ISAF, ANSF tackle IEDs, preserve “new freedom” French BG responds to Story and photo by Technical Sgt. James Fisher HQ ISAF Public Information Office Soairse Nua, Gaelic for “New Free- dom,” is the name given to a series Rochab area flooding of counter-IED exercises featuring a cooperative effort from ISAF and Afghan RC-Capital staff reports of the local population by reinforcing the National Security Forces. The name seems KABUL (July 7) – The French battle local government, said Lt. Serdar Eyiler, appropriate. The exercises are focused group of ISAF’s Regional Command- Regional Command Capital spokesman. on thwarting one of the Taliban’s main Capital recently responded to the flood- “This activity helps us make contact tactics for stealing the freedom gained ing in Qareh Bagh district that may have with the local population, to reinforce the by Afghans since the fall of the brutal, killed three people and destroyed an entire French force’s willingness to help and to repressive regime. village. gain acceptance from the population,” The second exercise in the series took On June 27, the civil-military coop- said a French official. “A mud corridor place in Kabul July 11, bringing more then eration team deployed to Rochab, Qareh destroyed everything in the little village.” 240 ISAF and ANSF troops together to Bagh district, to help repair and rebuild. The team brought spades, rakes and get better at dealing with IEDs. The visit was part of Operation Shukran. pickaxes to help clear the local road. They A French soldier passes out tools The exercise had four phases, accord- The French portion of the operation is gave cement and masonry kits to the resi- to villagers of Rochab to help ing to Lt. Colonel Ray Lane, chief of taking place in the northern part of Kabul, dents to help them rebuild their damaged clear the village of debris follow- ISAF’s Counter-IED branch. Aspects French and Afghan bomb disposal teams from RC-Capital examine and aims to improve the security and trust homes. ing a recent flood. Courtesy photo which included the exercise control center, a device via a video feed from a camera mounted on a robot during cordon, IEDD and exploitation were again the second Soairse Nua exercise July 10. The Shinah Boys School received 100 Dr. Ali, director of the hospital said in anchored by the theme that “coopera- are more in the realm of criminal activ- exercises,” Said explained. “In addition Turkish soldiers school bags, 200 large notebooks, 200 small his remarks that he appreciated the dona- tion and coordination save lives.” Lane ity than warfare, dealing with them is in to the aftermath of the bus bombing, notebooks, 300 pencils, 30 boxes of chalk tion because the materials will allow to the said communication improved as did the the purview of law enforcement, he said. [cordon procedures] have prevented more and 40 chalkboards. hospital to reach the highest level of effi- exercise in general. Conducting an investigation right from the casualties and we have saved lives this way conduct “In my childhood, I chose going school ciency in the Afghan hospital system. “The exercise was very beneficial from beginning is imperative. in certain areas” and working for the needs of other peop- our point of view,” Lane said. “We were “It is more criminal activity. And when Said also mentioned that while cordon community le,” said Major Erdogan, from the Turkish extremely happy with the performance. In we investigate, we want to show [ANSF] procedures have been very beneficial, battle group. “The Turkish Republic sent the after-action review, good points were that whatever you find, even a rocket, watching an explosive ordnance disposal outreach me to Afghanistan to be useful for our bro- French BG raised. There was good communication, from the finger prints to the [material] team deal with different scenarios is even thers, and I am doing so now. The future and we had a better training area and bet- it’s made from can tell us a lot – when it’s more significant for them. Ever aspect of RC-Capital staff reports of this country is on your shoulders. Re- CIMIC team ter logistics all around.” produced, where it’s produced. But you training is building up their capabilities. KABUL (July 5) – The Turkish Civil- member this fact.” The exercise offered participants a must get the information right from the “The more training we have, the better Military Cooperation team and battle group reaches out series of scenarios that were based on beginning,” Manfried said. we learn,” he said. “The training is helping of Regional Command Capital recently dug incidents occurring in Kabul over the last The inspector also said that he has been to build the capacity of the ANP, and a lot wells, and donated medical equipment and RC-Capital staff reports year. ISAF troops from Region Com- continually impressed by the eagerness to of progress has been made since the last recently as part of Operation Shukran. Italian troops KABUL (July 7) – A French civil-mili- mand-Capital and ANSF troops from learn on the part of ANSF troops. exercise. The troops are working together, After a short meeting with the Kadi tary cooperation team recently completed the Kabul area joined together to tackle “They want to learn. They are very becoming very familiar with each other Zumeray, governor of Khak-e Jabbar, a deliver medical several projects to improve Afghan lives the scenarios. Lane said organizers were interested, like sponges, soaking it all up,” and the new tactics.” ceremony signified the hand over of the during Operation Shukran. pleased with a wider range of participants Manfried said. “It’s our job to share with This familiarization was effective, ac- wells to the villages of Charwazi and Ba- equipment to On June 29, the French battle group this time, including the Afghan National them what we know. We must remember cording to Lane. ghay. Turkish officials said the wells will arrived in Qala Eh Ye Mirza, Farzeh dis- Army and the Combined Security Transi- that we are guests in this country. And if a “You can see in their faces at the end improve the quality and quantity of water Kabul hospital trict. With the help of the CIMIC team, tion Command-Afghanistan, responsible suicide bomb goes off here, it’s their case. of the day, that they have learned some- available to drink and for agricultural use. the soldiers helped lay cornerstones of a for increasing ANSF capabilities. We have to give them the evidence.” thing,” he said. “They are part of a team. Both village maliks expressed their sa- RC-Capital staff reports girls school and a veterinary clinic. The “We had ANA this time, Kabul City This has been taking place in Kabul, To see the French and Afghan bomb tisfaction about the work of the Turkish KABUL, Afghanistan (June 29) - Italian girls school will accommodate 600 students Police, crime scene investigators, and where police have had to deal with a series disposal teams sharing equipment was battle group. ISAF soldiers belonging to the 3rd Alpini when complete. Both facilities are sched- CSTCA. This is beneficial from our point of IED incidents in 2007. The June 17 bus very significant of the camaraderie and The CIMIC team and Turkish soldiers Regiment, under the command of Colonel uled to open in August. of view, because they should take a greater bombing which killed 35 ANP officers was teamwork going on out here. This is what also donated medical equipment to the Manione Giovanni, delivered 100,000 eu- In addition, the French donated furni- role as we move toward our third and final a good example of putting new tactics into it’s all about.” Chakarie Village Clinic in Khak-e Jabbar. ros worth of hospital materials June 24 to ture and supplies to a local boys school. exercise,” Land said. practice, according to ANP Lt. Colonel Lane added that the training going on The equipment included two stethoscopes a clinic in the Esteqlal district in the south Later June 30, French doctors conducted a One observer there to assist with the Said. He served as a cordon commander in RC-Capital is forming a template for and two blood-pressure readers to the Cha- of Kabul city. medical visit to Zemmah village, Kalakan crime scene investigation element of in both Soairse Nua exercises. He said similar training which can be conducted kari Clinic; Shinah clinic received a similar The materials have been collected in It- district. The doctors treated patients for a exploitation was Deputy Chief Inspec- tactics acquired in the first exercise were throughout Afghanistan. donation. In addition, the team handed over aly thanks to the president of the “Alpini” variety of problems, such as stomach ail- tor Juergen Manfried, a German member employed June 17. By putting this training into practice, 10 boxes of medicine to the Chakari clinic. National Association. Materials included ments, and eye and vision problems. They of INTERPOL in Kabul. He works with “It is difficult to deal with incidents ISAF and ANSF can work together to To the Khak-e Jabbar clinic, the team dona- three operating room tables, three steriliza- also provided medical care to children and Afghan law enforcement officials to share like this, but we have done our best and save lives and protect the “new freedom” ted one centrifuge and one microscope. tion and one corpuscle-counting machine. babies. tactics and experience. Because IEDs applied what we have learned during the enjoyed by Afghans. 6 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 7 Afghan National Security Forces RC(C) Op Shukran showcases ANA Air Corps

HQ ISAF staff reports, photos by Staff Sgt. Ray Winstead Musayi Valley. There they conducted a patrol through the valley KABUL – For the first time, Afghan National Security with ISAF soldiers. Later in the day another platoon of ANA sol- Forces helicopters for the first time transported Afghan diers arrived for another patrol with ISAF soldiers. National Army soldiers as part of an operational mission, “The aim of the patrol was to conduct a deliberate surge opera- Above: an Afghan National Army Air Corps helicopter approaches a landing zone in the Musayi where they performed a joint patrol with ISAF July 9. tion in the Musayi Valley to interdict and disrupt Taliban extremist Valley July 9. The ANA and troops from RC-Capital were conducting infiltration operations as Soldiers from the ANA 201st Corps began the operation activity and to develop a secure and safe environment,” said Lt. part of Operation Shukran. Below: Anti-mine vehicles from RC-Capital’s Italian Battle Group from Pol-e Charki and flew aboard the helicopters into the Gianluca Greco, Regional Command-Capital official. prepare to take part in the operation. Above left: ANA soldiers patrol through the valley. Be- low left: troops are inserted for a patrol. Op Shukran was the first time ANA Air Corps aircraft were used for operational missions.

8 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 9 RC(C) Regional Command North ISAF troops help NGO, orphans Story and photo by Technical Sgt. James Fisher HQ ISAF Public Information Office The ability to reach back for resources is a key to mission accomplishment for deployed forces. For a Ramstein lieutenant colonel deployed to Afghanistan, reaching back is also the key to making a difference. Lt. Colonel Randy Robertson, the Deputy Commander of the 86th Air and Lt. Colonel Randy Robertson distributes shoes to one of the children Space Communication Group, is currently at Global point Afghanistan. Global Point runs a school for street Northern report deployed to Kabul Afghanistan, assigned children in Kabul. In addition to shoes, donation collected by Rob- to NATO’s HQ-International Security As- ertson and his comrades from HQ ISAF helped Global Point pay rent sistance Force. The colonel, now serving on their facilities for several months. as the Chief of Key Leader Engagements, ment, our program is running with a lot of Significant contributions also came from got together with some comrades to see difficulties,” Mr. Zaib said. his Group, and the 1st Air and Space Op- what they could do to help orphans and Because of decades of war and tur- erations, Communications Maintenance, street children in the Afghan Capital. As moil, Afghanistan is extremely poor and and Combat Communications Squadrons. they assessed the children’s’ needs, they many of the nearly 500 children helped by He also put a call in to his hometown decided to reach back to home station, Global Point are not orphans in the true of Morton, Miss. and his parents’ church and Colonel Robertson’s hometown for sense, but without a parent to provide for there. constructed within the prison compound. extremist propaganda. assistance. them. They are left to get money however “They mentioned my request in their PRT Meymaneh The 320-square meter building contains nine “Less than a year ago some representa- A group from ISAF HQ had been pro- they can to support their families, Mr. Zaib Sunday school class and they got an over- cells, capable of housing two inmates each. tives of these parties were involved in armed viding assistance to Global Point Afghani- explained. whelming response,” Colonel Robertson opens female The building contains a kindergarten, work- conflicts with each other,” said Oskari Ero- stan, a non-governmental organization “What you have are nine, 10 or even explained. “They were able to raise more shop, classroom and meeting room. nen, PRT political advisor. “Therefore, it that provides schooling and alternative six-year-old children responsible for sup- than $500 from the people there in one prison facilities The Finnish Ministry of Foreign Af- is a great step forward that the parties now education for orphans and street children. porting a family,” Mr. Zaib said. Global morning.” fairs financed both projects which cost a can meet for discussions.” “It started out with one of our local Point is trying to not only educate these While this was going on, the group RC-North staff reports combined 200,000 USD. The project began “The discussions proceeded in a friend- NGOs. We were helping them out with children, but teach them trades that they contacted two companies and a source for MEYMANEH – A new prison December 2006. ly and professional spirit,” said Lt. Elli Flén, providing some basic school supplies and can use later on to earn money to help shoes was located. The kids wouldn’t have administration building and a separate PRT Meymaneh spokesperson. “All three toys for the children,” Colonel Robertson their families, like tailoring and carpet to stay away from school when the cold wing for females prisoners opened here parties promised to do their best to stop in- said. “The more we worked with them, the making. The NGO is trying to give them weather arrived. July 4. Political surgents from infiltrating into the province more we realized they needed much more. alternatives to life on the street. But they “When they saw how much the chil- Dr. Mohammed Qasim Hashimzai, and creating insecurity.” Especially shoes.” need help to do this. dren needed and what the cause was, they the Afghan deputy minister for justice, parties meet at They also agreed religious leaders should The colonel went on to explain that “I want to tell the people of the world, responded,” Colonel Robertson said. “We Brig. Gen. Josef Blotz, ISAF Regional support—and encourage support—for the children without shoes were unwilling to please pay attention to these children,” had enough for three months’ rent and Command North commander, and Lt. PRT Meymaneh elected governmental representatives while go to school during Kabul’s cold winter Zaib said. Colonel Robertson and his much-needed school supplies.” Col. Jørn Erick Berntsen, Provincial they criticized the Government of Afghan- months. But shoes were only part of the colleagues were paying attention, and by The assistance collected was taken to Reconstruction Team Meymaneh com- RC-North staff reports istan for not directing enough resources to problem for the kids at Global Point, ac- enlisting the help of people at home and Global Point and the shoes were distribut- mander, all attended to view the new MEYMANEH (July 3) – The security situ- security officials in the northern provinces. cording to Director Ramazan Zaib. Global home station, they made a difference. ed to the kids in a visit made by the group facility. ation in northern Afghanistan was the topic The parties agreed that said propaganda Point’s programs have struggle this year They found sources for shoes, school sup- from ISAF June 23. “The justice sector in Afghanistan for a recent meeting arranged by Provincial from Taliban extremists must be countered due to lack of funding, and they organiza- plies, and more importantly, paying rent. “I am thankful to them,” Mr. Zaib said. has many challenges, and having facili- Reconstruction Team Meymaneh, between and that religious leaders play a key role. tion needs help. . “When we found out we needed some “Thank you very much. I am relying on ties is only one of them,” Berntsen said. the three main political parties of the Faryab “The tri-party meetings are a part of the “We work for orphans and street chil- money, we put a call in to my home unit donors to keep this program going, and “Hopefully, this will have a positive province. PRT’s work for better governance in Fary- dren. This is so important to us because back at Ramstein. I was amazed at the re- some American communities have helped impact on the local community for years Individual political party representatives ab,” Flén said. “Efficient, fair and legitimate these children are the future of Afghani- sponses we got,” Colonel Robertson said. us a lot. Thank you very much.” to come.” from Jumbesh, Azadi and Jamiat met for the governance is the right of every citizen in stan. Unfortunately, we don’t have the Ramstein yielded a lot of help for Global For more information on how to help, The new prison administration build- fourth time in a round-table discussion hosted a well-functioning country. Without good possibility even to pay rent on our facility, Point, including more than $600 from the contact Colonel Robertson at randykrob- ing has 17 new offices for prison staff. by PRT Meymaneh to discuss supporting the governance there will never be sustainable or to pay teachers’ salaries. For the mo- Ramstein Enlisted Spouses Association. [email protected]. A separate wing for females has been national government and countering Taliban development or real security.” 10 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 11 Regional Command East RC(E) Polish Battle Group overcomes language barrier IRoA, ISAF provide emergency relief in Gayan Story and photo by soldiers with previous combat experience RC-East staff reports Specialist Micah E. Clare have brought with them to Afghanistan. Forward Operation Base Salerno (July 4th Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs “Even though we are the ones carrying 5) – Afghan National Army and ISAF sol- ANDAR DISTRICT— Listening to au- the guns, it’s very important to show [locals] diers led an effort to distribute much need- dio books in English, while washing dishes that we are their friends, not enemies,” said ed items to small-border villages in Gayan with his wife in Sulecin, Poland, was just Polish Sgt. Jack Jedrzejowski, a squad leader district, Paktika province, July 3. one of the opportunities a Polish army of- in 2nd Platoon, Company B, who has com- More than six tons of aid—to include ficer used to brush up on his self-taught bat experience in both Iraq and Lebanon. essentials such as tarps; blankets, sandbags, English language proficiency. “If we don’t show respect to their culture, rice, beans and flour—were delivered to At the time, Polish Army Major Thomas religion and customs, they won’t have any villages where entire wheat crops had been Stachera had no idea that learning English reason to assist us.” destroyed by recent floods. would serve him well in one of his most Working well with the Polish soldier’s “Humanitarian aid [from the Afghan important military assignments: helping close allies, the Afghan National Army sol- government and ISAF] provides tempo- turn over the security of a war-torn Middle diers assigned to them, is also imperative. rary solutions to long-term problems,” said Eastern country back to its own people. “We didn’t expect to be working in such Major Donald A. Korpi, an ISAF official. Stachera, the commander of Combat a close partnership with them,” said Novak. The aid ISAF is providing with the govern- Team B of the Polish Battle Group as- “But we find them to be the key to putting ment’s help addresses the immediate needs signed to Ghazni province, Afghanistan, A Polish soldier gives out toys the people we visit at ease.” of the people, he added. found his command of the English lan- and candy to a crowd of children While an interpreter can’t be everywhere Several bundles of supplies have been guage extremely useful in communicating one evening at his platoon’s at once, the Poles and Afghans must some- air dropped in the villages of Tangerai and An Afghan National Army hands out humanitarian aid to villagers with Afghans, who speak an entirely differ- field patrol base in Ghazni times be able to understand each other Zanghi Bazaar as well as the Gayan Dis- caught in the flood July 1 at the Zanghi Bazaar. Some of the sup- Province ent language. without any words at all, in situations like trict Center itself. Eight more bundles are plies were rice, beans and blankets. Courtesy photo “There are not many Polish-speaking in- the Andar District hills of Ghazni province vehicle searches. planned for delivery in the villages of Ma- terpreters in Afghanistan,” he said. “In or- during Operation Maiwand last month, “They point to the area on a truck, and madi and Torah Wrey later this week. Some local elders pointed to the recent tions of a few impact the lives of thou- der to communicate to the locals and work they didn’t find the Taliban they were look- we ask the driver to open it up for search- After receiving the bundles, Afghan flooding as the worst they had seen in their sands,” Korpi said. “This will probably be effectively with our Afghan National Army ing for, just an old man sleeping peacefully ing,” said Mohib-Ullah, an Afghan soldier and ISAF soldiers held a shura with village lifetimes. the most rewarding part of their deploy- counterparts, it is important that I speak under an apricot tree. from the Afghan 203rd Thunder Corps elders to determine the best way to distrib- “We are extremely proud of our soldiers ment.” English well to my interpreter.” After the man’s grandson roused him, unit attached to 2nd Platoon. “We let the ute the aid. who have witnessed first-hand how the ac- There are only four interpreters in the he awoke to Novak’s friendly smile and an driver know that it’s just a procedure meant entire country who can translate Polish outstretched hand. for everyone’s safety. We’ve really started Leaders meet in Ghazni to discuss further progress into Pashto and Dari, the two most com- “Salam alaikem,” Novak said rendering working together well with the Polish, and RC-East staff reports raised by the elders dealt with what forces Maiwand there were no ANA in Andar. mon Afghan languages, said Abdul Nasir, the traditional Islamic greeting. we’re always learning new ways to under- TACTICAL ASSEMBLY AREA would remain after the conclusion of Op- Operation Maiwand marks a move Stachera’s interpreter. Through his interpreter, Novak asked stand each other.” THUNDER (June 24) – Afghan leaders eration Maiwand. Both Khaliq and Afghan forward towards integrated government at The requirement that all Polish officers the man how he and the members of his The need for communication has also from Ghazni province met here June 23 National Police Gen. Fatah reassured the all levels. During this operation, all levels must be able to speak English aids in the village were doing and if they had been prompted the Polish to pick up some of for a press conference to discuss how the people that Afghan police will have a large of government from the national level to Polish Battle Group’s mission here. bothered by the Taliban, who, before flee- the native language, an opportunity some government of Afghanistan can improve enough presence to defend the people. the lowest level at the district centers are The Polish Battle Group, which offi- ing the area at the start of Maiwand, had of them are very happy with. basic services and security for nearby vil- “You have seen what the government working together to provide humanitarian cially took responsibility for the security of been threatening people not to cooperate “I’ve been able to learn quite a few Pa- lagers, building on the successes of Opera- and its security forces wish to bring the aid and security to the people. They work several areas in the eastern Afghan prov- with the ISAF. shto phrases,” said Novak. “It’s gotten to tion Maiwand. people of Afghanistan, and you have seen with the people and ISAF forces in deter- inces of Ghazni and Paktika last month, is The old man kindly offered Novak and the point where I can piece together what The press conference focused on the what the Taliban have brought,” Khaliq mining future projects and infrastructure the first major Polish infantry unit to par- his men some of his ripe apricots, and some of these village elders are saying to continued efforts of the Afghan National said. “Our forces will stand by you and development within the region. ticipate in international efforts to stabilize proceeded to tell him about how glad the me.” Security Forces and some of their major assist you as together we defend the soil of the country. It is also the first time Stachera people in his village and surrounding ar- The two Andar-based platoons find accomplishments during the past month Afghanistan and Islam.” “We are leaving be- and most of his men have served here. eas were that their main roads were now building relationships is quite different in eastern Ghazni to build support among In order to support the ANSF, Colonel “It is very different from what we cleared of roadside bombs. He also gave from what they were expecting to do here. the people for the government. Martin P. Schweitzer, commander of Task hind a much, much thought it was going to be,” said Polish valuable information regarding rumors he But this is a good thing, said Stachera. “Today’s meeting is a major step Force Fury, agreed to provide a large sup- larger force to show Army 1st Lt. Thomas Novak, platoon lead- had heard about the possible whereabouts “The people here are on our side,” he forward for the people of Andar,” said port element in and around Andar. er, 2nd platoon, Company B. “We trained of an escaped Taliban commander. explained. “It is the most encouraging Afghan National Army Gen. Khaliq. “The “This is a huge increase in ISAF pres- our commitment to the very hard before we left, but we are finding “This makes the work worth it,” Novak thing about being here in Afghanistan. My Taliban said the people will never support ence in this district,” Schweitzer said. “In people of Andar and ourselves adapting to many unforeseen cir- said after the meeting was over and he and biggest concern here is for the safety of my the army or the police. [However], they the months leading up to Maiwand, we assist the ANSF as they cumstances every day.” his men had left. “I love talking with the men, but the more we travel this country, have provided information and assistance had a platoon-size element, about 40 folks Novak explained that he and his men locals, but when they return our courtesy I can see that we are really helping. What to security forces that has directly resulted in Andar. We are leaving behind a much, continue to separate were trained to fight and take prisoners but with the information we need, it’s especially we are doing here is really working, and the in the capture of several Taliban and the much larger force to show our commit- the enemy and protect often find themselves doing the complete rewarding.” people are earnestly cooperating with us. removal of several weapon caches and ment to the people of Andar and assist opposite, making friends and earning trust. The necessity for showing respect and They see the right thing to do is to work improvised explosive devices in the Miri the ANSF as they continue to separate the the people..” When he led his men into a small, isolat- cultural awareness for the residents of an towards unity, and to show the Taliban that and surrounding areas.” enemy and protect the people.” -- Colonel Martin P. Schweitzer ed, yet green and terraced village nestled in area is something that some of the Polish they have no place here.” Many of the questions and concerns Prior to the beginning of Operation 12 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 13 RC(E) RC(E) The real kite runners flying the Afghan skies

Story and photo by Specialist Micah E. Clare 4th Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs FORWARD OPERATING BASE SALERNO — Even though best-selling books have painted pictures of Afghan children flying colorful kites high in blue skies against backdrops of snow-capped mountains that tower over quaint villages, not all Afghan children are fortunate enough to own such simple, yet wonderful toys. However, when the Polish Battle Group arrived in Ghazni province’s Andar district near the end of June, the local children were finally able to take part in an activity shared by children in almost all countries in the world: flying kites. While conducting patrols throughout A bucket loader dumps sand and rocks at the edge of the Pech River while building a temporary retain- Andar district during Operation Maiwand ing wall so aid could get to the victims of the flood waters.Courtesy photo Two Polish soldiers from the 1st Platoon, Company B, Polish Battle last month, the Polish soldiers of 1st and Group, help an Afghan boy fly his new kite June 24 in Andar Dis- 2nd Platoons, Company B of the Polish trict, Ghazni province. Battle Group, made many humanitarian ISAF, local government battle Pech River floods aid deliveries to the poor families living in as he made whooping sounds while his children to school. RC-East staff reports government already had necessary emer- now realize they can all go to the same the area. kite dipped and swerved in the air. “The “It is sad, because most children here JALALABAD AIR FIELD – ISAF gency services well under way and were place, and that they depend on the govern- The extreme poverty of some of the Taliban would never give us these things.” have not had the same opportunities that soldiers responded to flooding of the developing plans to repair the damage. ment’s leadership. That is a milestone. It areas was quite a shock to many of the For the children who had never seen my own daughter does,” Ozog-Warclaw Pech River in eastern Afghanistan June 26, “When I got there to offer our support, demonstrates the government has become Polish. a kite before, some of the Polish soldiers explained. “It is not their fault either. Back that killed four people, destroyed a home, it was obvious that the government had their centre. Which is a relatively new “It seems like time stopped here 2,000 stepped in to assist, unfolding the kites in Poland, my daughter is developing in several bridges and washed away a road things under control,” said Major Stephen concept here.” years ago,” said Private 1st Class Chris and showing them how to take off with a school in a safe, loving community where earning the praise of a local official. Sutton, Task Force Rock civil affairs of- The prompt reaction by the authorities Demko, a gunner on one of the giant running start to get it airborne. she is free to learn, play, and interact. “ISAF forces came to offer their help ficer. was an example of effective local leader- Rosomak armored personnel carriers. “Any time spent with children is a good Every person should have access to these and we appreciated their quick efforts, as “It’s a sign that everyone turned to the ship, Sutton said. “We see these kids running around with thing,” said Private 1st Class Michal Ozog- things, because being educated is a weapon well as the central government’s, to pro- government,” Sutton said. “The people nothing, not even shoes, and we want to Warclaw. “It is wonderful to see children against people who would tell you to be vide support,” said Daree Pech Sub-Gov- change that.” who have been through so much with something you are not.” ernor Haji Zalmai Khan. Everywhere they went, children smiles on their faces.” While the small youngsters who were The flooding also made the only road crowded around the vehicles as the smiling Ozog-Warclaw, who has a daughter of screaming with excitement have many to the village impassable. A retaining wall soldiers pulled out boxes of shoes, clothes, his own back home in Poland, spends as things to face as they grow older in their collapsed by flooding in a nearby village school supplies and toys. But the biggest much time as he can with her when he is still unstable country, the pristine scene was responsible for the four deaths. hit of all were the multi-colored kites that home. of children flying kites, completely free ISAF forces provided sandbags and dirt the soldiers unfolded for them. “I spent many days playing with her to enjoy their youth, still feels like it could to help support a temporary retaining wall. With big grins and excited chattering, just like this in the park, or forest,” he come out of the pages of a book. They also brought other supplies and aid the children jumped up and down shout- recalled. “We’re simply helping them make their including a tent for the family whose home ing, “Patang! Patang!” (the Pashto word While the children enjoyed their kites lives better,” said Polish Maj. Thomas was demolished. for kite.) and new shoes, the Polish also gave out Stachera, commander of Company B, By early afternoon, construction vehi- Soon the sky had several of the yellow, school supplies as an encouragement for while watching the children playing as his cles had already begun fending the waters green and red kites with International Se- them not only to play, but to learn and at- men prepared to move on. off by dumping huge amounts of sand curity Assitance Forces logos flying, much tend nearby schools. “I believe this to be a picture of what and rocks to allow aid to come through. to the delight of the children dancing The soldiers hope that their presence these people really want, a stable, peace- Locals also came to the government to around below. and influence in these areas will be able ful, productive society,” he said. “These volunteer their help as a line of men stood “These kites are so much fun,” said to help change an environment where the children are the ones who will be able to by to fill sandbags and move rocks. Mahmad-Amid Hahn, a 12-year- old boy, Taliban threatened parents against sending make it happen.” According to an ISAF official, the local Daree Pech villagers line up to help relief efforts. Courtesy photo

14 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 15 Regional Command South RC(S) Bulgarians replace Romanians at Kandahar Air Field PRT Qalat’s improving situation in south Force protection RC-South staff reports QALAT (June 20) – ISAF’s Provincial responsibility Reconstruction Team Qalat soldiers visited two projects June 13 designed to improve transferred conditions for Afghan people. One pro- gram is the Green Afghanistan Initiative RC-South staff reports Center and the other is a girls school. KANDAHAR AIR FIELD (June 26) The GAIN Center is a nursery offering – The 1st Bulgarian Tower Company re- women the opportunity to participate in a placed the 2nd Romanian Infantry Compa- work-for-food program. In exchange for ny as the Kandahar Air Field force protec- three hours of work a day, at least 21 days tion element during a transfer-of-authority a month, women receive food items, such ceremony here June 20. as beans, wheat, salt and oil. The GAIN Capt. Petko Tsankov Tsanev succeeded Center opened in 2006 with help from the Capt. Decebel Niculescu as commander of United States Agency for International the KAF Tower Company force protection Development and the World Food Pro- element, responsible for ensuring the secu- gram. It currently provides work for more rity of the largest ISAF installation. than 75 women. “During the next six months the 1st “The director of the center told me Bulgarian Tower Company will provide se- that the women who participate in this curity for Kandahar Air Field,” Tsanev said. program are very courageous,” said Staff “We will execute our tasks with profession- Sgt. Joyce Cole, a member of PRT Qalat, alism, honor and dignity.” “because they still come to work even after In addressing the audience, Stevens said, The director of the Green Afghanistan Initiative (GAIN) Center receiving threats from some of the men here meets with Staff Sgt. Joyce Cole, PRT Qalat, June 13 to “It’s an honor today to host this transfer in the city.” Women at the GAIN Center discuss the work-for-food program. Courtesy photo of authority between two magnificent units have planted and continue to nurture hun- representing Romania and Bulgaria. Two dreds of trees including apricot, almond, girls in attendance,” said Parwin, principal. in Pashtu, the local language, math, nations that are NATO members who are cedar, pine and pistachio. “We are open Saturday through Thursday. Our grammar, art and sports for the committed to our international mission in Another program is a girls school first through third graders attend from eight to younger students. The curriculum Afghanistan and who proudly stand and which has an enrolment of more than 10 a.m. Our fourth through 10th graders are adds English, sociology and social fight alongside coalition forces in the war 1,500 students. here from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.” Teachers at the studies for the older students. All against terrorism.” “We have 30 teachers, 10 staff mem- school earn approximately $40 a month. students receive teachings from the “You have shown that the people of bers. And today, we have more than 900 The school’s curriculum includes classes Qur’an. Romania, who themselves felt the dagger of tyranny at their throat, are the strong- Capt. Decebel Niculescu (left) and members of the 2nd Romanian est fighters for those who are still seeking Infantry Company case the colors during a transfer of authority of Taliban extremists used ‘human shields’ the Kandahar Air Field Force Protection Element, June 20. democracy,” Stevens added. RC-South staff reports those who died as cover for the attack and fired small-arms fire from a large com- HELMAND (June 27) – The senior an estimated 60 rocket-propelled grenades. pound. The gun battle lasted four Afghan citizens foil suicide bombing ISAF commander here and the mayor The ANA withdrew from the battle without hours with extremists firing at ISAF of Gereshk met June 23 to discuss the taking any casualties in order to prevent further troops from among the civilians in RC-South staff reports houses on a busy street, according to the Also inside the vehicle was an empty death of civilians in an air strike June 21 civilians from being injured. the compound. KANDAHAR CITY – Afghan Na- general. container of heroin. According to Alizai, and how to avoid civilian casualties in the At 2 p.m. local senior Afghan officials and The ISAF troops repositioned to tional Security Forces and ISAF soldiers “What kind of a person hides in a suicide bombers are known to use the future. ISAF officers conducted a shura to discuss the the Helmand River where they stayed worked together on tips by Afghan civil- vehicle and blows himself up?” asked drug before such attacks. Using drugs is an The mayor of Gereshk and his chief incident. Senior ISAF commanders expressed out of sight of the compound but ians June 18 to stop a potential vehicle- Alizai. “This is not the Afghan way. This example of how cowardly the enemies of of police explained to family members of their deep regret at the tragic incident. where they would have an opportu- borne improvised explosive device attack is not the way of Islam. The people who peace and stability are, Alizai said. the deceased that the death of the civilians The shura confirmed a number of Taliban nity to protect the area from Taliban here. do these kinds of activities are cowards appeared to be an accident. They said the fighters had been killed in the fighting and said infiltration. As they were reposition- “Based on tips from citizens, Gen. and murderers. This explosion could have “What kind of a person deaths were likely due to the Taliban using that the Taliban had been using the civilians as ing, approximately 20 Taliban fighters Esmatullah Alizai, chief of police for killed many innocent children and their hides in a vehicle and civilians as human shields during an attack cover for attacks upon ISAF and ANA forces were seen and positively identified Kandahar province, said security forces families. Only by the action of our secu- blows himself up? This against ISAF in the Barazezay Kalay area, and that the Taliban were ultimately responsible in this compound. ISAF officials were looking for a suicide bomber in a ve- rity forces, assisted by ISAF troops, were the official added. for the deaths. decided to engage them with aircraft. hicle somewhere in the city. ANSF troops we able to make this area safe again.” is not the Afghan way. ISAF officials asked the Afghan Na- The incident in question occurred when The following morning, repre- located a vehicle matching the description The ANSF secured the area and called This is not the way of tional Army to patrol the area and talk to ISAF forces were conducting an operation sentatives of the Afghan authorities on the side of the road. When ANSF for assistance from the Provincial Recon- the locals to calm their fears and anger. At in the village of Barazezay Kalay to protect in Gereshk informed the local ISAF troops attempted to stop the vehicle, the struction Team Kandahar Quick Response Islam.” approximately 10:30 a.m. June 22 Taliban Gereshk and remove the Taliban extremists commander that there were reports bomber then fled the scene. He left the Force. They responded and disabled the --General Esmatullah Alizai gunmen opened fire on one of the ANA from the area. During a patrol through the that a number of civilians had been vehicle and its lethal cargo parked near explosive devices. patrols. The Taliban used the funeral of village at 9 p.m. the patrol came under intense injured in the area that night. 16 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 17 RC(S) RC(S) American forces celebrate 4th of July

before the competition that just like the American real American Idol show this contest had Farewell a judge from the U.K. and his name was Troops don’t Simon. with honors KAF Idol’s Simon proved to be just as Brigadier Generals let deployment blunt as the real American Idol’s Simon Mohammed Hussain and Cowell. Esmatullah Alizai take a spoil the fun “In the song you say you had a bad salute from Major Chip day, and it didn’t get any better,” he told a Madic, the deputy com- Story by Captain Vanessa Bowman contestant. mander of the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction and photos Sgt. Tony J. Spain, Some of the other events included a Team. The Kandahar- 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment. sand volleyball tournament, egg race, bal- KANDAHAR AIRFIELD (6 July) based generals are being loon toss, tug-of-war and a raffle for Sony posted to new provinc- – American Armed Forces did not let a Play Station 3. es and were recognized deployment, thousands of miles from “It was a well-planned event and the June 26 by the PRT for th home, spoil their 4 of July fun as they Soldiers had a great time as well as the their tireless efforts in celebrated Independence Day with a bar- other nations helping us celebrate, said promoting security and beque and a day of competitive events at Sgt. 1st Class James Wilkins, B Company, stability in Kandahar Kandahar Airfield Wednesday. 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment and province. Courtesy photo Multi national forces joined in the native of Benton Harbor, Mich. festivities, which began at 6:30 am with a As Americans celebrated their own in- 5-kilometer fun run held by the U.S. Gar- dependence some guests such as General rison Command. Abduhl Raziq Sherzai, commander Afghan Later in the morning, the U.S. National Air Corps and Afghan citizens served as Command Element, Joint Military Police reminders of the mission to bring freedom held a 9mm pistol shoot. A pool and ping and independence to those oppressed in pong tournament at the Morale Welfare Afghanistan. and Recreation center was also held. The commander of KAF closed out The 9mm pistol shoot had more than the celebration with remarks explaining 40 participants including shooters from what the 4th of July was really about. other ISAF Nations including Canada, Specalist Matthew Littel, 22nd “Fourth of July is a celebration that is ANSF, ISAF reestablish control in Chowreh U.K., Mongolia, and Bulgaria. Mobile Public Affairs Detach- not about us, not about the events today,” RC-South staff reports civilians injured and that there were the people of Afghanistan, so even a ment, 18th Airborne Corps, “We thought it would be a good thing said Col. Richard L. Stevens, Task Force KANDAHAR – Afghan National no known civilian deaths. “After three single death is cause for sadness,” he sings “Luck be a Lady” by to build some camaraderie between service Anzio, commander of KAF. “It is about Security Forces and ISAF troops days of fighting, it seems likely to us said. members and [international] members to Frank Sinatra during the KAF Idol competition on The 4th of taking a stand and standing up for what recently re-established control in now that there were some civilians not ISAF officials have said previously come out and have some friendly competi- July Littel is a native of Dallas, we believe in. We are here today to help Chowreh district of Uruzgan province only injured but killed,” he said. that they continue to work to coordi- tion,” said Master Sgt. William Ward, U.S. Texas. the Afghan people in their fight for life, after days of instability and fighting “Some may have been killed at the nate operations with Afghan officials NCE, Joint Military Police Force and a liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The there caused by a Taliban attempt to hands of the Taliban, some may have to minimize the risk to civilians of native of Johnson City, Tenn. an excuse to leave work early!” 4th of July is about patriots. It doesn’t mat- th take control of the area. been caught in cross-fire and some military operations, but that ISAF Specialist Brandon Kathrens, 478 One of the biggest events of the day ter what nation’s uniform you wear you are Based on shura meetings with local may have died in airstrikes against en- forces will always maintain the right of Personnel Support Battalion, and native was the command sergeant major dunk all patriots.” of Holton, Kan., has shot for 10 years, tank. Service members got three softballs leaders and their own assessments, emy positions,” said Smith. “We will self defense by returning fire against remarked that he enjoyed the competition to throw and try to dunk the sergeant ISAF officials now believe there were continue to attempt to determine just enemy firing positions. and would like to see more held in the major of their choice for 30 pushups. “[The 4th of July] is about a number of insurgent and civilian what happened but in cases like this it During the fighting, local militia future. “The best activity this afternoon was taking a stand and stand- casualties. Exact numbers of dead are is always difficult.” succeeded in helping the government After an afternoon break, the activities the dunk tank,” said Chief Master Sgt. impossible to determine, said ISAF Afghan national security officials defend the district center, which never continued with an American-style bar- Benjamin Caro, U.S. Garrison Command. ing up for what we believe officials, as is the cause of death, in reported that Taliban extremists killed fell. Afghan government and ISAF beque consisting of hotdogs, hamburgers, He thought it was great to see how much in. We are here today to many cases. Chowreh citizens, including women forces now fully control the entire barbeque chicken and popular picnic side fun people were having with it. dishes like potato salad. The main event and attraction of the help the Afghan people in “We are pleased the district is once and children in an attempt to under- Chowreh area, having recaptured the The barbeque was enjoyed by interna- day was the KAF Idol competition, a sing- their fight for life, liberty, again safe for the local population, but mine the local public’s resistance to three remote police checkpoints that tional forces as well. ing competition modeled off the hit televi- saddened that there apparently were their presence and terrorize them, briefly came under insurgent control. “I was supposed to go to the gym, but sion show American Idol. There were 10 and the pursuit of happi- civilian deaths and injuries,” said Lt. Smith said. ISAF leaders have held shuras with was drawn to the aroma of a good old contestants who performed songs for the ness,” Colonel Mike Smith, ISAF spokesman. “No matter the cause, we mourn local elders since then to discuss ways barbeque,” said Flight Lt. A. Mason, U.K., audience and the panel of three judges. --Colonel Richard L. Stevens Previously, ISAF could confirm any loss of innocent life. We are here to further assist them. Royal Air Force. “Thanks to the USA for The contestants were forewarned only that there were less than ten to help provide safety and security to 18 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 19 Regional Command West RC(W) Afghan children learn about dangers of mines RC-West staff reports Free HERAT, Afghanistan (June 26) – More than 6,000 Afghan school children in Herat have learned more about the dan- gers of mines and how to keep themselves medical safe through Operation White Butterfly, a PRT Herat program. The Italian-run PRT has visited chil- clinic dren in more than 16 schools since starting the program May 31. The program’s name comes from the at Farah “White Butterfly,” an anti-personnel mine shaped like a butterfly. General Antonio Satta, PRT Herat commander, is over- seeing the program throughout western Afghanistan. Recently, the PRT members presented the program to 500 students of the Baba Hagi School. Captain Saverio Cucinotta, chief of explosives ordnance disposal at PRT Herat, taught the students how to recognize and avoid the white butterfly mines, and what to do if they come upon Above: A Baba Hagi student holds up a poster of mines during a one. During the class discussion, a young presentation by the Italian EOD team from PRT Herat. The visit was part of Operation White Butterfly. Below: Afghan girls here from Afghan girl named Khaterah told the EOD members as well. Courtesy photo Italians that one of the devices was close to her house. Afghan National Police received applause from the students and months. Mohammed Ismail, director of responded to handle the unexploded ord- faculty members when he said the Italian Baba Hagi, and Mohammed Azim, head nance, according to an RC-West official. EOD team had defused approximately teacher, thanked the EOD team for teach- Warrant Officer Raspa Gualberto 4,000 explosive devices in the past six ing the students mine awareness. An Italian physician assistant examines a patient at a free clinic held for Afghan people at the Farah Provincial Reconstruction Team June 14. The patient is an injured Afghan National Police officer who was previously shot while trying to stop drug smugglers on the Afghan-Iran border. Courtesy photo PRT provides medical care to Afghans in RC-West RC-West staff reports medication. Another woman complained help they can give me.” FARAH (June 26) – ISAF soldiers at of pain in her lower back. After a routine In addition to providing medical care, Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah examination, the staff provided her with the clinic also educates Afghans on the ba- held a free medical clinic for local Afghans pain medication and taught her some sics of medical care. The goal is to teach recently. stretching exercises to relieve the discom- them to become self-sufficient and take About 50 local Afghan men, women fort. better care of themselves. and children received medical care at the On other days, patients may present free clinic in just one day. The PRT hosts more serious conditions needing further the clinic for Afghans every Tuesday and medical attention the clinic couldn’t pro- “If it was not for Thursday and usually handles between 40 vide. When this happens, the clinic staff to 70 patients, according to Lt. Command- directs them to other medical facilities. this clinic, I would er Kelley Newman, physician assistant. One such patient was an injured mem- not have any—or “People that have various illnesses will ber of the Afghan National Police, who come in and get evaluated. We try to help was suffering from complications from a know of any—other them by evaluating their condition. The surgery that took place after he was shot in things we can treat and make better, we an operation to stop drug smugglers along options for medical do,” Newman said. the Iran-Afghanistan border. On this day, some patients complained “If it was not for this clinic, I would treatment.” of mild headaches, or minor aches and not have any—or know of any—other --Injured ANP officer pains. A few children had irritated and options for medical treatment,” said the itchy eyes. The staff provided them with injured ANP officer. “I am grateful for any

20 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 21 RC(W) Compass points ISAF soldiers vaccinate in Chaghcharan Nearly 300 people Canada Day receive protection against Hepatitis A RC-West staff reports CHAGHCHARAN (July 7) – Med- ics from Provincial Reconstruction Team Chaghcharan PRT vaccinated 295 Afghan men, women and children against hepatitis A in the Chaghcharan hospital in visits July 3 and 4. “We work closely with the medics from the PRT since it was established,” said Juma Gul Jaqubi, Chagcharan hospital di- rector. “It is very good for the community to have them nearby, because they help us with many situations, such as this one.” Captain Andrejus Budakov, chief of PRT medical section, said they conducted the vaccination program because it is not a requirement in Afghanistan, so most people do not receive it as a result. “In our country vaccination against hepatitis A is mandatory, but it is not in Afghanistan,” Budakov said. Members of the CJ-9 team pull their way to victory in the tug-o-war during Canada Day festivities July “Not everyone in Ghowr province 1 at HQ ISAF. Inset: a participate sports a Canadian Flag temporary tattoo on her biceps. Canada Day understands what hepatitis A is,” Budakov marks the birth of Canada as an independent nation. On July 1, 1867, the British North American Act said. “But the fact we are vaccinating was signed, creating the Federal Government of Canada, giving them independence from Great Brit- them makes a really big impression on ain. Though often thought of as the nation’s birthday, July 1st only celebrates Canada’s independence. them,” he added. In addition to the vaccination program, the PRT medics work closely with local Jude Law visits doctors, helping them with consultations An Afghan man receives a hepatitis A vaccination from a PRT Mey- and treating residents of Ghowr province. maneh medic. Courtesy photo PRT holds farewell ceremony for Ghowr governor RC-West staff reports more importantly, hope for his people. CHAGHCHARAN (July 5) – The gov- “We don’t see a difference between us ernor of Ghowr province paid a final visit and you,” the governor said. “We are the to the commander of Provincial Recon- same as you.” struction Team Chaghcharan July 1 during Polekauskas stressed the governor’s a farewell ceremony. contribution to the multinational commu- Ghowr Governor Shah Abdul Ahad nity’s success in helping to reconstruct the Afzali noted that the PRT’s soldiers were province and bring security. beloved by the local Afghans. “Before coming here, I heard about “Your soldiers are liked here because the very good relationship between the they respect Afghans and our traditions,” governor and the PRT,” Polekauskas said. Afzali said. Governor Shah Abdul Afzali “In a couple of months I became assured Actor Jude Law signs an autograph for new ISAF Chief of Public “Chaghcharan has changed in two (centre) walks with Colonel of that myself.” Information Lt. Colonel Claudia Foss during a visit July 14. Law, years,” said Afzali during his meeting with Dalius Polekauskas and elders Afzali has been governor for two years. representing Unicef and working on a documentary on the UN-Man- Colonel Dalius Polekauskas, PRT Chagh- July 1. Afghan President Hamid Karzai has ap- dated annual day of peace September 21, visited troops at ISAF charan commander. “Today people live Afzali thanked the PRT for the suc- pointed Ahmady Baz Mohammad to be bases. “To all the men and women serving ISAF here in Afghani- in their own homes. Stability is coming to cessful support it had provided in bringing the next Ghowr governor. stan, it was my pleasure to meet a few of you and learn first hand of the great work you are doing. Be proud of yourselves, you are Afghanistan.” a peaceful and stable environment and, doing great things,” he said. 19 22 ISAF MIRROR August 2007 23 A Difference

How can we make a difference asked the young man with a frown when grief and pain and sorrow make each breaking day their own. A world of insecurity, a land upon its knees. How can we make a difference, oh this I ask you please.

How will you make a difference the old man did implore. Our people are forsaken, abandoned evermore. Hearts immersed in darkness as sunshine turns to shade, how will you make a difference? How will you make a change?

How do we make a difference sighed the soldier wearily. The battles, they continue -- Flags ‘mast in memory. As time treks slowly onwards like the shifting of the sand. How do we make a difference? What is the greater plan?

How did you make a difference said the wise man in reply What memory will grant to you a future, tranquil joy When the children’s smiles that shine for miles light up your passing day, you know you’ve made a difference before you went away.

--anonymous ISAF soldier