Camp Alamo Training Assistance Group

Story by Guy Volb

CAMP ALAMO, Afghanistan – Seven miles northeast of Camp Alamo families of Sheenza Wer village welcomed a team of medics March 18.

Comprised of a multi-nation, multi-service contingent of medical professionals, the group evaluated and treated many of the villagers under overcast, sometimes rainy skies. It was the first civilian medical assistance mission ever conducted by a training assistance group here, and more than 100 coalition members, Afghan national army troops and medical staff combined to make the mission a success. The ANA took the lead in evaluating patients and dispending treatment.

Their primary ailments -- malnutrition, muscular pain and disease – were all major concerns, according to the 17-member medical team, and were safely treated.

"It [the visit] is good for us," said 30-year-old Lal Udin, who described himself as one of three village maliks or elders. "Since we don't have a clinic here, it helps solve some of our medical problems."

And there were many according to the medics.

"We saw a prevalence of bacterial infections – eye, ear, sinus chest and skin – plus allergies, muscle pain and stomach problems," said 28-year-old Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Christianson, from Effingham, Ill. "Based on a medical assessment performed in the village two months ago, we were ready with the right medication to dispense to the population."

The medics saw approximately 250 villagers, according to the medical Embedded Training Team non-commissioned officer in charge.

"I think it was successful because we were able to treat many of them and the village malik seemed happy."

Army Maj. Monty Hodge, with Camp Alamo's Mentor Group Advanced Combat Training branch, agreed with Christianson.

"Security was very good. And the villagers received the treatment required within our capabilities."

"Everyone I interacted with and observed were very happy we were there and to receive medical assistance," continued Hodge, originally from West Frankfort, Ill.

Yet Lal Udin eagerly pointed out other areas of concern within the village.

"We need more wells," he said, sporting a green scarf and dirt-brown pacol – an Afghan hat, "especially in the north and east parts of the village."

He said the 120-plus families that now live in Sheenza Wer also need a medical clinic, schools, roads and food.

"Another 450 people are planning to move here from Pakistan," he stressed. "They're returning after having left during the Russian occupation. Now, the average man here only makes $4 a day breaking rock and selling it to construction companies; so it's hard to provide for their families."

Lal Udin said he'd like to see more involvement from the coalition, preferring a visit at least once a month.

"The security here is good," he said. "It's not like Helmond or Kandahar. So we'd like to see such visits on a regular basis."

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