Afghans celebrate Independence Day

Courtesy Photo | Residents of Paktika province celebrate Afghan independence day at the governor's compound in downtown Sharana, Afghanistan, on Aug. 19.  

FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHARANA, AFGHANISTAN

08.20.2007

Courtesy Story

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

By Army Capt. Ashley Dellavalle
Task Force Rugged Public Affairs Office

SHARANA DISTRICT, Afghanistan — Thousands of Afghan residents in Paktika province gathered waving Afghan flags to celebrate Afghanistan's independence day at the governor's compound in downtown Sharana, Aug. 20.

Afghan tribal music filled the air as men dressed in gold embroidered tunics danced to celebrate their independence from the British 88 years ago.

"I am very happy because this is the 88th year of our independence," said Paktika Provincial Governor, Dr. Akram Khelpwak. "Our country continues to strive for big improvement. We need to put our hands together to continue to make it better."

Khelpwak referenced the former King of Afghanistan, Ghazi Amanullah, who led Afghanistan to the defeat of the British as well as implemented vast political and social change in Afghanistan.

"Ghazi Amanullah developed useful plans to defeat the enemy and gain our independence. During his reign, he solved the problems with Jirgas and talks. Now is the time for the people to help the (Islamic Republic of Afghanistan) develop good security. Now the government needs the support of the people," Khelpwak proclaimed.

Khelpwak recognized the success of the province and the necessity for continued cooperation of the people to maintain these improvements. He is confident in the success of this province and Afghanistan.

"In the Paktika province, comparing this year to last year, we see lots of improvements and change, Khelpwak said. "The enemies of Afghanistan do not want the government to be improved and they are creating problems. (IRoA) will never bend their heads for the enemies; we will always improve. Peace Jirgas (meetings) between Afghanistan and Pakistan will be successful."

"There will be a lot of construction in your villages," Khelpwak promised. "We will try our best to improve education and security in the province."

Following the ceremony, Col. Yasin, Afghan National Directorate of Security, personally recognized 107 personnel from different security agencies and government civil authorities with certificates of achievement.

Soccer tournaments and polo matches entertained both the participants and the spectators during the day's events. Tribal elders joined the governor to enjoy a lunch served inside the governor's conference center. The residents of Paktika continued to mingle and celebrate their independence and hoped for everlasting independence throughout the day and into late the afternoon.

• Date Taken: 08.20.2007
• Date Posted: 08.21.2007 09:38
• Story ID: 11915
• Location: FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHARANA, AF