BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan

Page 2 DEFENSE DIGEST Aug. 20, 2007

IMCOM will use the Defense Travel System to process orders, manage travel funds, and arrange lodging and meals. It will also maintain an inventory of installation and contract lodging solutions for Soldiers in TCS status, and will be the approving author- ity for any use of economy per diem lodging. With IMCOM providing oversight, the revised program will benefit the Army and Soldiers, said Laura Avery, chief of budget execution, IMCOM headquarters. “In the end it’s going to be a lot more cost effective for the government and a more efficient process for the Soldier,” she said. Air Force Army SERE training to be required for all Army Puts ‘Temporary’ Back in TCS Airmen WASHINGTON (AFPN) - Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Mi- Orders chael Moseley met Aug. 10 at the Pentagon with several Air Force WASHINGTON - The Army is putting the “temporary” back leaders to discuss the road ahead for survival, evasion, resistance into temporary change of station orders that authorize and fund and escape training. assignments for Soldiers in contingency support positions that Air Force leaders plan to broaden the focus of SERE training are not in a combat zone. for all Airmen due to the threat of isolation and capture for Air- Effective Aug. 15, TCS orders are issued only for assignments men supporting the war on terrorism. of 180 days or less, unless a waiver is granted. Additionally, Sol- “As we’ve seen recently, the capture of military personnel has diers will not be approved for two sets of 180-day orders within the potential of exploding into a larger strategic event with global the same 365-day period. The changes are intended to ensure impacts,” Moseley said. “Today’s battlefields are non-linear and Soldiers and families have predictable, reasonable service require- non-contiguous; their shape and venue change constantly. I worry ments. we’ve not prepared our Airmen for the world we’re operating in.” “The 16,000 Soldiers currently on TCS orders and their fami- In today’s ever-changing world, Airmen increasingly find lies deserve a process that makes sense, is predictable, and honors themselves in a non-traditional environment outside the wire. their willingness and commitment to sacrifice and serve,” said SERE training teaches Airmen principles, techniques and skills Ronald J. James, assistant secretary of the Army for manpower to survive in any environment, avoid capture, resist and escape if and Reserve affairs. captured. A presidential order dated Sept. 14, 2001, authorized the Army SERE training is currently conducted on three levels. All Air- to call on individual ready reservists to fill jobs left vacant by Sol- men receive entry-level, or A-level, training. B-level is provided to diers deploying into operational theaters. The positions included those with a moderate risk of capture and C-level is reserved for such missions as staffing operations centers, training Soldiers at those with a high risk of capture. B- and C-level training are pro- mobilization centers and guarding sensitive areas. Though the as- vided primarily to aircrew members, those traditionally in higher signments were expected to be short term, many Soldiers have -risk duties. served on assignments requiring them to extend in TCS status In addition to aircrews, advanced SERE training currently for years. is provided to battlefield Airmen, those with the responsibility Being on TCS orders entitles Soldiers to lodging and per diem for combat control, pararescue, tactical air control and combat reimbursements, in addition to their normal housing allowance. weather. Putting Soldiers on temporary duty of 180 days or less on TCS “This is a great day. For the first time in history, we’re talk- orders is normal Army procedure because they are essentially ing about preparing all Airmen in the total force to deal with the maintaining a home away from home and entitled to reimburse- increasing threat of isolation and capture,” said Chief Master Ser- ment. geant John Myers, SERE career field manager. The changes ensure the TCS program will remain an appropri- “With the issues we’ve addressed at this summit, we’ve taken a ate and important vehicle for emerging temporary requirements, great step forward in facing this ultimate challenge that confronts and the administrative changes will make the program more our Airmen who fall into enemy hands,” Andrews added. manageable and efficient, saving dollars for the war effort. Moseley’s new initiative will be to incorporate SERE training Col. Richard Shrank, commander of U.S. Army Finance Com- throughout the Air Force. mand, said the Army will tap into the Installation Management “We need to inject these skills across the entire force,” Moseley Command’s resources to enhance the TCS process. said. “Whether deployed for combat operations, stationed overseas “As Soldiers come into a TDY status we’re specifically going to or even in the continental United States, there are persistent threats be directing them to Installation Management Command to look to all Airmen. We must ensure every Airman is properly trained to for government housing solutions,” Shrank said. “We’re going to deal with these threats. From the moment Airmen report for initial be pushing that as one of the cost-control savings.” training until they separate or retire, we must train them to ensure IMCOM will provide oversight for the redefined TCS policy. they return with honor.” Aug. 20, 2007 NEWS Page 3

COVER: An Army Materiel Command’s Afghan First program trainee grinds an ammo box in the in the metal shop at Bagram Airﬁeld, Afghanistan. Since its inception in March 2006, the Afghan First program has infused hundreds of millions of dollars into the Afghan economy. (Photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Daniel Bellis) Pg. 5

Army 1st Lt. Chris Richelderfer, executive officer of Contents Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, PAGE 4 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Com- ANSF provides medical assistance in Sangin bat Team, looks at possible enemy positions during Operation Saray Has. PAGE 5 Task Force Saber, ANA land in Nuristan PAGE 6 Afghan children return from field trip PAGE 7 Alpha Company gets dirty for MWR PAGE 8 Army program puts Afghan First PAGE 10 Bridge-building class comes to a close PAGE 11 IRoA sets reconstruction sights on Farah PAGE 12 Army launches stress disorder training campaign Pg. 10 PAGE 13 Eagle Cash saves time, money Brig. Gen. Mohammad Shafi, Afghan National Army PAGE 14 chief of engineers, speaks to his troops during a rec- Chief of Staff of the Army visits Afghanistan ognition ceremony at Bagram Airfield.

Freedom Watch is a weekly publication of Combined Joint Task Force-82. Freedom Watch Staff Commander CJTF-82 Commander Army Maj. Gen. David M. Rodriguez Air Force Maj. Elizabeth Ortiz RC East Public Affairs Officer Army Lt. Col. David A. Accetta NCOIC Tech. Sgt. Aaron Cram Freedom Watch, a Department of Defense publication, is published each Mon- Print Chief day by the American Forces Network - Afghanistan Print Section at Bagram Air- field, Afghanistan. Printed circulation is 5,000 copies per week. Air Force Staff Sgt. Daniel Bellis In accordance with DoD Instruction 5120.4, this DoD newspaper is an au- Editor thorized publication for members of the U.S. military overseas. Contents of the Freedom Watch are not necessarily the official view of, or Air Force Staff Sgt. Sarah Gregory endorsed by, the U.S. government or the Department of Defense. Staff Writer Deadline for submissions is noon local each Friday. All submissions are Senior Airman Christine Collier subject to editing by the AFN-A Print Section, located in Bldg. 415, Room 205, Bagram Airfield. We can be reached at DSN 318-231-3338. Visit the CJTF-82 Web site at www.cjtf82.com Page 4 NEWS Aug. 20, 2007 ANSF provides medical assistance in Sangin

Courtesy of “The security and assis- Combined Joint tance for our animals and vil- Task Force-82 lagers are a gift from God,” said a Sangin area village el- elmand Province, Af- der. “Many thanks and bless- Hghanistan - Afghan Photos by Army Sgt. Steven M. Boone ings for an end to war.” National Security Forces, Coalition-aid programs di- advised by Coalition forces, vided 500 bags of rice, 400 brought medical, veterinary bags of beans, cases of tea, and material assistance to powdered milk and cooking oil Afghan civilians at the San- between villagers. Toys, books gin District Center, Helmand and school supplies were also Province. distributed. The medical and veteri- “The people of Sangin have nary assistance were made seen a large portion of the possible due to diminished combat in Afghanistan this Taliban enemy activity in the year so we do whatever we can area. Coalition forces have to make their lives easier,” said put heavy pressure on insur- a Coalition civil affairs officer. gents in Helmand Province Coalition Soldiers struggle to hold a cow steady while “Most of them are regular since spring, a strategy that giving her de-worming medicine during a veterinary working families like you’d see disrupted the Taliban’s plan assistance visit in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. back home, no different from for a spring offensive. us.” “Our mission is to give these ing 329 men and 528 women come here have problems that “Although the services pro- people medical treatment, and children during the five- are preventable or easy to fix,” vided were limited, there were something they otherwise day program. Common com- said a Coalition medical officer. many encouraging comments have great difficulty getting plaints were musculo-skeletal “We can make simple advice from the locals,” said a CA of- access to,” said a Coalition pain, upset stomach and dehy- and a little bit of medicine go ficer. “They know we are here medical officer. “A lot of them dration, but there were some a long way.” to help them and they appreci- can’t afford the medicine we’re exceptions. Two victims of a A Coalition dentist also pro- ate that. Sangin residents can giving them, but it’s part of a recent Taliban mortar attack vided dental care for the resi- expect continued goodwill and campaign for healthy bodies in were stabilized and evacuated dents of Sangin. Most of his care from Coalition forces.” Afghanistan.” to a nearby Coalition post for patients required extractions ANSF and Coalition forces further care. or fillings and each of them re- treated 857 villagers, includ- “Most of the people who ceived information on how to maintain good oral health. “This has been a great success,” said the governor of the district. “Many people of San- gin have been provided with medical care that they otherwise would not have been able to afford. Many thanks to God and to our friends in the international community for their assistance and may we all have peace.” In addition to medical, dental and material services, the relief team also treated the livestock of Sangin residents. Sheep, goats and cattle made A Coalition medical officer examines a face wound up the majority of the 120 on a local girl during a Coalition Soldiers hand out copies of the Quran and animals that were treated for visit to Sangin district, prayer rugs during the visit. Toys, school supplies and parasites and given growth Helmand Province. basic cooking items were also distributed. supplements and antibiotics. Aug. 20, 2007 NEWS Page 5

Sky Soldiers

TaskSky Force Soldiers Saber, ANA land in Nuristan Story and photos by Army Sgt. Brandon Aird “The wood on the donkeys had been stolen from the Naray lum- 173rd ABCT Public Affairs ber yard two days before our mission,” said Springer. Rochman was adamant about bringing the wood smugglers to URISTAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Sailing through the justice. The wood smugglers were brought off the mountain, back Nclouds, Soldiers from the Afghan National Army and Task to Naray to face prosecution. Force Saber air-assaulted onto landing zone Shetland during Op- Operation Saray Has was more productive than both Springer eration Saray Has. and Rochman had planned. The LZ was a large meadow near the top of a mountain here. “It validated the need to conduct future operations in the area Local Afghans use the area as a grazing pasture for livestock, while to deny [Taliban extremists] that terrain,” said Springer. Taliban extremists often use it to stage attacks against TF Saber. The spot the Afghan 3rd Kandak, 201st Corps and Soldiers from Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 91st Cav- alry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, landed on was roughly 10,000 feet above sea level. The air-assault was part of a reconnaissance mission to determine the point of ori- gin for rockets which were fi red at Forward Operating Base Naray and injured several Soldiers a few weeks prior. “We came up here to confi rm or deny enemy use of the hilltop,” said Army 1st Lt. Chris Richelderfer, HHT executive offi cer. “Seven Soldiers were injured from that attack,” said Army Com- mand Sgt. Maj. Victor Pedraza, TF Saber command sergeant major. After air-assaulting onto the mountain, a patrol was dispatched to an adjacent mountain to scout out the terrain and possible enemy positions. The rest of the Soldiers secured the area while Army Capt. Na- than Springer, HHT commander, along with the Naray district Sub-Gov., SamShu Rochman, spoke with local people. “I wanted the government to have the lead when talking with Army 1st Lt. Chris Richelderfer, executive offi cer of Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, the locals,” said Springer. 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Com- Rochman spoke with civilians from the villages of Badermashal bat Team, looks at possible enemy positions during and Cherigal about security in the area. Operation Saray Has. While Rochman and Springer were speaking with villagers, Top: Two ANA soldiers meet with a local during Opera- wood smugglers accidentally walked their donkeys carrying stolen tion Saray Has near Forward Operating Base Naray, wood into the meadow. Afghanistan. Page 6 NEWS Aug. 20, 2007 Afghan children return from Poland Polish Minister of Defense sponsors students’ two-week stay

Story and photo by Yet of all the experiences shown them, Spc. Micah E. Clare perhaps the most valuable was meeting 4th Brigade Combat Team people living in a free country. Public Affairs Office “What meant the most to us was how friendly the people there were; they were AGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan always smiling,” Jabar continued. “Liv- B- School field trips provide critical ing in such freedom is something we exposure to new experiences and knowl- dream of here [in Afghanistan]. I can’t edge about the world, and for nearly 30 wait for our country to someday become Afghan schoolchildren, this was never just like that.” more true than when they recently vis- The children’s teachers, who went ited Poland. with them, were very happy to see their Sponsored by the Polish Minister of students’ horizons widened. Defense, Afghan students ranging from “We wish our children to see first- ages 10 to 16 were chosen to spend two hand the progress of other countries,” weeks sightseeing in the eastern Euro- said Abdul Ghani, Jabar’s teacher. “This pean country of Poland, said Jacek Ma- trip has opened up their minds to learn- tuszak of the Polish Public Information ing more about the world like nothing Office. The trip not only opened up the else could. Several of them have already world around them, but also showed them asked about a continued education in Po- a way of life other than the one they are land.” familiar with. The trip is something the Polish gov- The minister of education chose the ernment made possible. In an attempt most promising students from eastern to renew historic ties with Afghanistan, Afghanistan’s Paktika Province, Ma- Afghans coming to Poland are offered a tuszak explained. scholarship by the government, explained The students were flown to Poland Polish Maj. Wojciech Kaliszczak, the where they visited communities and cit- An Afghan student, who just republic information officer for the Polish ies along the scenic Baltic Sea. turned from a two-week field trip Battle Group stationed in Afghanistan. “We had the opportunity to take them to Poland, shows off his souvenirs The two countries have had relations to either our sea or mountains,” said Ma- while at the Polish military com- since the 1920s. At that time Polish sol- pound at Bagram Airfield. tuszak. “But we figured being from Af- diers came to the rugged Afghan moun- ghanistan they had seen enough mountains for special training, said Kaliszczak. tains.” stay,” said Matuszak. Later, many Afghans went to Poland for The children were treated on behalf The kids also interacted with Polish refuge during the Soviet occupation 30 of the Polish government to a variety of children; playing soccer and volleyball years ago. child-friendly activities. together, as well as becoming familiar “We have always had very good rela- “They went to museums, zoos, sport with billiards and electronic games. tions with the Afghans, and we want events, dances; they did a lot during their During their visit, they were also giv- nothing more than to offer them oppor- en the benefit of state-of-the-art medi- tunities which will help them rebuild “Living in such freedom cal facilities, Matuszak said. They were their country,” he said. all given check-ups and some were given This is exactly what the government is something we dream treatments for various illnesses. of Poland had in mind when they ar- “It was such a fun experience,” said ranged this “long-range field trip.” of here [in Afghani- Imran Jabar, a 12-year-old boy from “Since we are representatives of the Waza Khwa Central High School, who kind of democratic country we are try- stan]. I can’t wait for had never left the country before. “The ing to give the Afghans, we want to give sights were amazing, especially the big, them a chance to see what living in such our country to someday beautiful cities. [At a military family a country is like,” Kaliszczak explained. become just like that.” social event] I enjoyed the dancing the “Who better to show than the genera- most; the Polish dance so beautifully, tion growing up in a free Afghanistan?” - Imran Jabar very different from traditional Afghan he said. “We gave them what they need Waza Khwa Central High School dances.” the most; a smile and a helping hand.” Aug. 20, 2007 NEWS Page 7 Alpha Company gets dirty for MWR

Story and photo by Army Sgt. Brandon Aird 173rd ABCT Public Affairs

ALALABAD, Afghanistan - Sol- Jdiers from Alpha Company, 173rd Brigade Support Battalion (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, renovated the morale, welfare and recreation center at Forward Operating Base Fenty here. “We cleaned up the MWR to make it more presentable for Soldiers,” said Army Pfc. Destin Blevins, an Alpha Co. Soldier. The entire inside of the MWR building was painted and new wires installed for additional computer and phone lines. The MWR center is the primary place provided by the Army at FOB Fenty where Soldiers can keep in contact with their families during Task Force Bayo- net’s 15-month deployment. “We’re doing as many things as we can to improve quality of life for the Soldiers,” said Army Staff Sgt. Harry Miller, Alpha Co. The MWR facility staff at FOB Fenty is currently expanding the range of activities. The MWR is planning to add televisions along with Xbox 360 gaming consoles for competition nights. Salsa dancing and karaoke nights are also in the works. Soldiers can find information about upcoming activities through their chain of command. Flyers will also be posted Army Pfc. Destin Blevins, Alpha Company, 173rd Brigade Support Bat- in high-visibility areas. talion (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, helps paint the “Information on MWR activities will morale, welfare and recreation center at Forward Operating Base Fenty in be posted on the dining facility door,” Jalalabad, Afghanistan. added Miller. Page 8 FEATURE FEATURE Page 9

pability, to allow them to go back into job and using the knowledge. Photos by Air Force Staff Sgt. Daniel Bellis Two AMC Afghan First program their workforce and create the middle “They’re good people; they’re very trainees conduct inventory in a economy,” he said. supply warehouse at Bagram Air- intelligent and trustworthy people,” The first iteration of the ap- field. Since its inception in March said the Texas native. “Once they learn prenticeship program began with 10 2006, the Afghan First program has this job, they can go on the economy Center: An Army Materiel Command’s Afghan First Afghan trainees, which consisted of infused hundreds of millions of dol- or get a job with another company, and program trainee tightens support bolts in a Bagram seven mechanics, a supply clerk, an lars into the Afghan economy. they can feel that we have trained them Airfield, Afghanistan, vehicle repair shop. The AMC graduated its first class of trainees in January, and is electrician and a billeting clerk. The in a good environment.” graduates also received on-the-job welding, working in supply and other currently training a second class of apprentices. McLendon added that AMC is a Right: Two AMC Afghan First program trainees con- training. places.” good environment to work in for all duct inventory in a supply warehouse at Bagram. “We turned around and offered the According to McLendon, 3rd Ba.- workers from Afghanistan and neigh- graduates of the program employment 401st Bde. was able to find the candi- boring countries. with the AFSB,” he said. “You can dates for the apprenticeship program “Everyone has a chance to succeed walk through our [shops] and see them easily, since they were already em- here.” Page 8 FEATURE FEATURE Page 9

Army program designed to boost national economy, train labor force by putting... Afghan First By U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer ployed on site as laborers. Eric Harrison “We picked from the best of the Af- 43rd Joint Logistics Command ghan labor force that we had, the ones Public Affairs who displayed the most initiative.” Another benefit of the Afghan First AGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghani- program is those in the program have Bstan – Since its inception, the an opportunity to expand beyond the Afghan First program has infused hun- AMC workforce to other parts of the dreds of millions of dollars into the community, according to McLendon. Afghan economy. However, the Army “The Afghan National Army is Materiel Command and 3rd Battalion, going to need mechanics and supply 401st Army Field Support Brigade, personnel. One day, the same people have contributed in a different way: we are training to work on our equip- through training. ment will be able to go back to their Afghan First, an AMC training own Afghan National Army to further An Afghan First program trainee program kicked off in March 2006. broaden that base. works on Humvee components at a The first class of apprentices began One participant in the AMC Afghan Bagram Airfield vehicle repair shop. their schooling June 2006, graduated First program said that after 30 years in January, and training has continued of fighting in Afghanistan, the training strong since. he has received is good for the future of Heyward McLendon, 3rd Ba.-401st the country and the Afghan people. Bde. deputy program manager, said “I like working here,” he said. “I’m the program is trying to help establish learning how to maintain vehicles here a baseline for the Afghan economy, so and I get certification as a mechanical the country will be able to stand on its helper; it’s helped me because I can own with highly skilled people. work outside the base at a mechanic McLendon went on to say one of shop fixing trucks.” the program’s goals is to help foster a Leonel Garza, 3rd Ba.-401st Bde. working class in Afghanistan. warehouse supervisor, said the trainees “We’re trying to increase their ca- he has worked with enjoy doing the pability, to allow them to go back into job and using the knowledge. Photos by Air Force Staff Sgt. Daniel Bellis Two AMC Afghan First program their workforce and create the middle “They’re good people; they’re very trainees conduct inventory in a economy,” he said. supply warehouse at Bagram Air- intelligent and trustworthy people,” The first iteration of the ap- field. Since its inception in March said the Texas native. “Once they learn prenticeship program began with 10 2006, the Afghan First program has this job, they can go on the economy Center: An Army Materiel Command’s Afghan First Afghan trainees, which consisted of infused hundreds of millions of dol- or get a job with another company, and program trainee tightens support bolts in a Bagram seven mechanics, a supply clerk, an lars into the Afghan economy. they can feel that we have trained them Airfield, Afghanistan, vehicle repair shop. The AMC graduated its first class of trainees in January, and is electrician and a billeting clerk. The in a good environment.” graduates also received on-the-job welding, working in supply and other currently training a second class of apprentices. McLendon added that AMC is a Right: Two AMC Afghan First program trainees con- training. places.” good environment to work in for all duct inventory in a supply warehouse at Bagram. “We turned around and offered the According to McLendon, 3rd Ba.- workers from Afghanistan and neigh- graduates of the program employment 401st Bde. was able to find the candi- boring countries. with the AFSB,” he said. “You can dates for the apprenticeship program “Everyone has a chance to succeed walk through our [shops] and see them easily, since they were already em- here.” Page 10 NEWS Aug. 20, 2007 Bridge-building class comes to close

Story and photos by Combined Security Transition Command Senior Airman – Afghanistan CJ7 training and education Christine Collier chief. “But a very important type of soldier American Forces Network – we’re training is the engineer. Under Gen- Afghanistan eral Shafi’s guidance, these engineers have made great strides over the last year.” AGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – The Bailey Bridge training came to BApproximately 25 Afghan National a close with a ceremony at a newly con- Army soldiers from 4-3 Kandak, 201st and structed practice bridge, complete with 203rd Corps Command, completed a U.S. certificates presented to the engineers by Army engineering training program de- General Shafi; the chief of the Afghanistan signed to help the Afghans assemble Bailey Defense Commission; and Army officers. Bridges across the country. Although the class has come to an end, “The ANA engineering leadership the practical application of the training is learned how to recon a bridge site, how big just beginning, as several sites in Afghani- the bridge needs to be and bridge applica- stan are already being prepped for bridges. tion design,” said Army Maj. Christopher “The country of Afghanistan has ter- Grose, 70th Engineering Battalion execu- rain that is very mountainous and has tive officer. “The other engineers learned many seasonal rivers and gullies,” Grose how to site the bridge in, put it together said. “The road-building and bridging that and slide it over the gap.” we are teaching these ANA engineers will The assembly of the Bailey Bridges, connect communities and people – some- which are portable, pre-fabricated struc- thing that has not been done before due to tures that can hold up to 100-ton loads, is Afghan National Army soldiers the lack of infrastructure.” part of a larger curriculum of engineering from 4-3 Kandak, 201st and 203rd Corp Command, are presented with In addition to training, the ANA will goals for the ANA which also includes mine receive more than $40 million dedicated detection and obstacle emplacement and a certificate after completing a U.S. Army engineering training course. to equip soldiers to defeat IEDs, as well as reduction. provide bulldozers and heavy equipment “This training from the U.S. Army is the to build bridges and make improvements, first step for our engineers,” said Brig. Gen. Some corps members had already gained Webb said. Mohammad Shafi, ANA chief of engineers. instruction experience, as several of them “Now we will place bridges in places “The second step will be for our engineers completed a week-long class in July and re- where they are much needed,” Shafi said. to construct bridges by themselves. The mained through August to help teach their “It will be a great service for the ANA and most knowledgeable will go on to be in- fellow engineers. the Afghan people.” structors to begin teaching the next group “We’re training many different types of “We will never forget the kindness of of engineers.” soldiers here,” said Army Col. Roy Webb, the U.S. government helping us,” said Al Haj Sher Mohammad Akhondzada, chief of the Afghanistan Defense Commission. “Afghan people recognize the support of the U.S. Army and their government.”

Brig. Gen. Mohammad Shaﬁ, Af- ghan National Army chief of engineers, speaks to his troops during a recognition ceremony at Bagram Airﬁeld, Afghanistan. Aug. 20, 2007 NEWS Page 11 IRoA sets reconstruction sights on Farah

Courtesy of Combined Joint Task Force-82

AGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Farah government Photo courtesy of U.S. Army Brepresentatives met with Coalition civil affairs teams and local contractors to discuss modernizing the rural areas of Farah District and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’s national development plan. The city of Farah has always prided itself on being a cultural city and was an island of development, education and human rights in a country ruled by the Taliban prior to 2001. Farah is one of the more advanced cities in Afghanistan and local leaders are working to make sure the city, as well as the entire province that shares its name, continues toward prosperity and success. Local elders viewed plans for building roads, new district centers, Farah area leaders and contractors listen as Coalition and a women’s dormitory project for nurses, mid-wives and students and Islamic Republic of Afghanistan officials describe living outside the province. improvement plans for Farah Province. Farah province is one of the largest provinces in Afghanistan. Civil affairs representatives and IRoA officials agreed many resi- pride in the work we do. It is for our people.” dents of the outlying villages, such as the town of Bakwa, feel dis- Local workers will do all the work on the projects to stimulate the connected from the rapid development in Farah city. local economy and provide a sense of pride for the Afghan people, “We’re building a road to connect Bakwa and Farah, as well as said one Coalition civil affairs officer. a new Bakwa district center,” said a Coalition civil affairs officer. “The work that we do must last for many years,” said one of the “This will facilitate commerce and prosperity for both cities.” contractors. “It is what we leave for our children.” “This is what we need; to work together to ensure we are meeting This project is another example of Coalition CAs continuous the goals set by our government,” said Abdul Raouf, minister of work with Afghan citizens to build facilities and infrastructure, reconstruction and development in Farah district. “We need to take which improve the quality of life of the Afghan people. Waza Khwa District Center opens despite sub-governor murder Courtesy of Combined Joint “The tribes of Waza Khwa greatly ap- Task Force-82 preciate the help of the international community in Afghanistan,” Shamamood said. ORWARD OPERATING BASE He reminded the crowd that despite this FWAZA KHWA, Paktika Province, one success, there is still more work to be Afghanistan – With a somber mood filling done in the border districts (Terwa, Wor the air, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Mamay and Waza Khwa) of Paktika Prov- officials in Waza Khwa District held a rib- ince. bon-cutting ceremony, signifying the open- As the community of Waza Khwa con- ing of a new district center here. tinues to improve its infrastructure, it must The event occurred one day after the also remember to focus on governance, edu- Kushamond sub-governor was ambushed cation and communication, Zazay added. and killed by enemy forces while traveling “In the last five years the international in Paktika. community has built schools, medical clin- The news of his death was the topic of ics and government buildings, but unfortu- conservation when provincial government U.S. Army photo by Curtis Rollings nately there are people out there that want officials and Coalition forces arrived for the Afghan Gen. Zazay, provincial chief to destroy them,” he continued. “The new ceremony, but despite this tragedy it was of police, cuts the ribbon signifying Waza Khwa District Center is a good place decided the ceremony should continue. the opening of the Waza Khwa Dis- for the people to come to see their govern- trict Center. The event was attended by the Pro- ment representatives.” vincial Director of Rural Reconstruc- Considering the circumstances sur- tion and Development, Khalid Bahader; Waza Khwa shura members. rounding the event, the ceremony was Provincial Chief of Police, Afghan Gen. Shamamood, event master of ceremo- considered a success by all involved, as the Zazay; Provincial Council Committee nies, began with a traditional Afghan event allowed local citizens to interact with member, Mulawi Shamamood; Sharana prayer. Following that, a number of local provincial government representatives as Provincial Reconstruction commander, leaders and officials spoke about the sig- they explained their plans for future devel- Navy Cmdr. Eduardo Fernandez; and nificance of the new district center. opment. Page 12 NEWS Aug. 20, 2007 Army launches stress disorder training campaign Courtesy of Combined Joint Task Force- have them look out for one another. 82 The PTSD and TBI training is “The most important part for leaders is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Aug. knowing your Soldiers and knowing when to he Army launched a training pro- 22 at the Bagram Airfield clam- have them ‘take a knee,’” said Moyers. “It’s Tgram July 17 as part of an aggres- shell and NCOs from all servic- not dishonorable to have a soldier stay be- sive campaign to educate more than 1 million es are welcome to attend. hind from a mission to get their head back Active, Reserve and National Guard Soldiers in the game.” worldwide within 90 days about post trau- The course, taught by Moyers, is designed matic stress disorder and mild traumatic blasts may cause mild TBIs, and behavioral to train NCOs, who can then go back to their brain injuries. health symptoms such as sleep problems, units and educate their troops to recognize “A lot of Soldiers are suffering from memory problems, confusion and irritability signs and symptoms of both PTSD and TBIs. PTSD,” said Sergeant 1st Class Brad Moy- may result. It will also include information on where sol- ers, Combined Joint Task Force-82 Surgeon “Combat is inherently brutal and dif- diers can get help for these conditions, both Cell NCOIC of medical training. “It is a real ficult, and it impacts humans in different in a deployed location and stateside. medical problem, but it is treatable, and we ways,” said Gen. George Casey Jr., chief of Leaders who have been in situations that have a very high recovery rate.” staff of the Army. “We have made significant could cause a mild TBI, such as being hit Combat stress is not uncommon among improvements in the identification and treat- by an IED while in a vehicle, should set the Soldiers, but those whose symptoms persist ment of PTSD and mild TBI, but we must standard by getting checked out by a doctor may have PTSD. PTSD is a condition that aggressively work research, prevention and as soon as possible, Moyers said. The same often follows a terrifying physical or emo- treatment of these injuries and, most impor- goes for being examined for PTSD. tional event, causing the person who sur- tantly, encourage Soldiers and their families “Mild TBIs and PTSD are treatable con- vived the event to have persistent, frighten- to seek treatment.” ditions,” he said. “It’s better to be seen than ing thoughts and memories, or flashbacks, of The symptoms of PTSD and mild TBI to put your buddies to the left and right of the ordeal. are very similar, Moyers said, which is why you at risk.” Mild TBI is a physical injury to the head the two are being taught in a class together. For more information on this and other which causes the brain to swell, much like a He stresses the importance of leadership behavioral health programs, visit http:// concussion, Moyers said. Exposure to IED passing the training down to their Soldiers to www.behavioralhealth.army.mil.

Dari/Pashtu phrase of the week

Please sit down

Dari Lotfan banishenead (Lot-fawn ba-ne-she- need)

Pashtu Mahra bani wakri kakhai- nai (Ma-ra bonnie wok-ri ka-ki-ni)

Religious holidays in Afghanistan are celebrated according to the lunar calendar, while secular holidays are celebrated based on the solar calendar. On holidays, Afghans usually visit with their family and friends where they prepare lavish meals and have special prayers with extended family. Aug. 20, 2007 NEWS Page 13 Eagle Cash saves time, money

By Army Pfc. Daniel M. Rangel their Eagle Card, servicemembers can still 22nd Mobile Public Affairs receive cash back as if it were a debit card, Detachment Anderson said. If servicemembers require more actual ORWARD OPERATING BASE currency, they can take Eagle Cash cards FFENTY, Afghanistan – Eagle Cash to their finance office and receive cash. is an innovative alternative to casual pay- “I’d like to encourage every Soldier ments. Accessible 24 hours a day, seven who is on a base large enough that sup- days a week, Eagle Cash is linked to ser- ports Eagle Cash to go ahead and get the vicemembers’ checking or savings ac- Eagle Cash Card because it’s going to be counts and works just like a debit card. so much easier for them,” Anderson said. Soon, casual payments will be scaled To get an Eagle Cash card, servicemem- down said Army 1st Lt. Todd R. Ander- bers fill out a form at the closest finance son, a finance officer and a Las Vegas na- office where they’ll include their bank active. count and routing number. Cashiers reg- Eagle Cash also solves a serious prob- ister the information with the U.S. Trea- lem: getting funds to Coalition forces in sury Department to activate the Eagle the field. Cash card. “It’s a very difficult process to get cash “You’re not charged fees with the Ea- here into theater,” Anderson said. gle Cash card,” Anderson said, unlike your Currency must be shipped from the ATM card where you get charged ATM U.S. Treasury Department under guard Army Spc. Henry T. Selzer, Head- fees every time.” then be accounted for. Finance offices have quarters and Headquarters Compa- Plus, Eagle Cash can be more conve- ny, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat deputy disbursement officers in charge of nient than casual payments. the funds that are distributed. Team, uses the Eagle Cash machine at the new Green Bean coffee shop “It’s easier and more convenient to be “The best part of my job is making at FOB Fenty. able to go up to a machine and load the sure everyone gets paid,” said Army Staff funds onto the card rather than waiting Sgt. Daniel W. Ward III, DDO at the fi- counts. They can use the funds to make in line with 50 to 100 people to get casual nance office here. purchases at any of the Army Air Force pay,” Anderson said. Eagle Cash makes it easier for the Exchange Service stores that accept Ea- Even servicemembers in the forward DDOs to get the job done. gle Cash. areas of Afghanistan will soon see the “It is the solution to the cash problem,” “Pretty much, any AAFES vendor is benefits of Eagle Cash. Anderson said. “It relieves the amount of going to be set up with the ability to accept “Places like Mehtar Lam and Kala actual cash that we have to have on hand the Eagle Cash card,” Anderson said. Gush continue to develop, and, as they here in theater.” There are plans for turning the local build their infrastructure, they’ll have Eagle Cash funds are withdrawn from shops and bazaars into AAFES vendors. the Eagle Cash card out there,” Anderson servicemembers’ checking or savings ac- Plus, as long as there are enough funds on said.

How you contribute to the mission on Bagram Airfield: I am the logistics planner for all incoming and outgoing forces. Most memorable moment in Air Force Afghanistan: Seeing friends here whom I met in basic training for Master Sgt. Kevin Ritchie the first time since then. Unit and occupation: 455th What do you miss most about Expeditionary Logistics Readiness home? Playing with my child. Squadron Hobbies: Soccer and video games Time in the military: 15 years The first thing you’re going to do Home Station: Travis Air Force when you get back: I’m going to Base, Calif. Ruth’s Chris’ Steakhouse for a Hometown: Malverne, N.Y. porterhouse steak. Page 14 NEWS Aug. 20, 2007 Army Chief of Staff visits Afghanistan By Army Pfc. ited Afghanistan Aug. 9 to talk with troops meeting where Soldiers from the various Melissa M. Escobar currently deployed here in support of the task forces in country were given the op- 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Global War on Terror. portunity to speak with him about current Detachment Army Gen. George W. Casey Jr. has issues. been traveling all over the world stopping “I get the question all the time, ‘When AGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - at Army bases to visit with Soldiers. Dur- are we coming off of 15 months?’ The an- BThe chief of staff of the Army vis- ing his visit here, Casey held a town hall swer is ‘I don’t know yet, but it is temporary,’” Casey explained to Soldiers about the current extensions to deployments. “We’re not going to instantaneously go from 15 back to 12 and still maintain 12- months dwell time. “I do feel fairly strongly that 15 months in this environment is not practical. I can’t imagine any scenarios where it would go beyond that.” Casey touched on the subject of the Ar- my’s ongoing transformation. The transformation he referred to was the “Army’s movement from a division-centered organization to brigade combat teams.” He feels Soldiers are generally comfortable with the change. “They see the value of a modular organization. I see the value of a modular organization,” Casey said. “They are really much better formations for the types of [operations] we’re getting ready to do in the 21st century. “I have not had one person in town hall meetings [who] has raised their hand and said, ‘Why are we going through this transformation while we’re fighting the war,’” Top: Gen. George W. he continued. Casey, Army Chief of Staff, Casey feels this shows a general recogni- talks to deployed troops tion that the transformation suits the situ- at a town hall meeting ations the Army is currently involved in. while visiting Bagram In closing, Casey expressed his gratitude Airfield, Afghanistan. for the Soldiers’ perseverance and constant commitment during the numerous changes Right: Gen. Casey is greet- the Army is going through. ed by Maj. Gen. David Ro- driguez, Combined Joint “Even though the force is stretched, Task Force-82 command- this is a hugely vibrant organization and er, at Bagram Airfield, Af- the commitment I see in all of our Soldiers, ghanistan. Casey visited leaders and families is mind-boggling and with troops throughout eye-watering,” Casey said. “Next month Regional Command-East. our country will have been at war for six years. What is at stake are the values and ideals [of our] nation. “We hold these truths to be sel-evident, that all men are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, among them life, liberty and the pursuit of hap- piness. What’s at stake is nothing less than our way of life. So what you all are doing here for the United States of America is preserving our way of life.” Aug. 20, 2007 ENTERTAINMENT Page 15

“You must give some time to your fellow men. Even if it’s a little thing, do Photo by Air Force Master Sgt. Jim Varhegyi something for oth- ers - something for which you get no pay but the privilege of doing it.” --Albert Schweitzer

Got a joke, review or top ten list? From the ﬁeld E-mail it to: freedom Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Teresa Smith joins volunteers from the Com- [email protected] bined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan to sort donations July and you could see 23, sent to Camp Eggers, Kabul, Afghanistan from the United States. them printed here!

Last week’s solutions: Photo by Air Force Senior Airman Christine Collier

Cheering for troops

Jenica and Emily, two members of the Buffalo Jills, spend a few moments learning about broadcasting in the Ameri- can Forces Network - Afghanistan radio studio at Bagram Airﬁeld while waiting for their interview. The Buffalo Jills Back cover: A little girl from the village of are cheerleaders for the Buffalo Bills football team, and Kuz Khadow Kheyl, Afghanistan, stares curi- nine members of the squad are currently touring military ously into the lens of a camera while Afghan bases in Afghanistan performing variety shows for mili- National Policemen search her village during tary members. Operation Maiwan. (Photo by Army Staff Sgt. Justin Holley)