Afghan national army soldiers

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, AFGHANISTAN

12.22.2007

Courtesy Story

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

Combined Joint Task Force - 82

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces, assisted by coalition forces, conducted a security patrol and visited with key leaders in the villages of Kahk-e-Safid and Bala Boluk in Farah province, Afghanistan, Dec. 15-17, to disrupt insurgent activity and strengthen relationships with villagers and elders in the region.

The Afghan national army planned the mission after insurgents attacked the Kahk-e-Safid District Center earlier in the month. The insurgents relinquished control of the district center shortly after the attack. ANA and coalition forces patrolled the area to restore law and order and assure residents the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan cares about their welfare.

"We showed the local inhabitants the ANA and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan are concerned about their security situation," said an ANA commander. "We will continue to eliminate all enemy sanctuaries."

During the security patrol, the combined force searched areas known to house insurgent activity. While searching one compound, ANA soldiers found six kilos of opium.

"This fact is as distinct as black and white; drugs support the insurgents," said an ANA commander. "We will stop the insurgents and make the area safe for Afghan citizens."

Villagers seemed genuinely happy to have ANA and coalition forces in their area to re-establish control. Village elders thanked members of the combined force, smiling and waving as they passed.

"Children came out to greet us at each village where we stopped," said a coalition forces soldier. "We also met with village elders, who thanked us for making the area safer.

"We hope for a continued presence of the ANA to keep us safe," said a village elder. "We look forward to future meetings."

• Date Taken: 12.22.2007
• Date Posted: 12.24.2007 13:00
• Story ID: 14962
• Location: BAGRAM AIR FIELD, AF