Asadabad celebrates the 89th Anniversary of Afghan Independence

AFGHANISTAN

08.25.2008

Story by Lt. Neil Myers 

3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division

By Lt. Neil Myers
Konar Provincial Reconstruction Team, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division

KONAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Government officials, security forces and local citizens gathered in downtown Asadabad in celebration of the 89th anniversary of Afghanistan's Independence. The celebration marked the country's independence from Great Britain.

Konar's provincial governor, Sayed Wahidi, addressed the crowd and urged the security forces of the province to work hard to improve security for the people. He praised the work of the Afghan national police and Afghan national army.

"In Konar people experience the fight for freedom everyday as they struggle against insurgents. They put their lives on the line because they want freedom and refuse to live under repression," Navy Lt. Matthew Myers, from Newport Naval Shipyard, Newport, R.I., said.

The event included a military parade demonstration that showcased various ANP and ANA battalions driving alongside marchers proudly displaying Afghanistan flags. The soldiers saluted Wahidi and other senior officials as they proceeded through the streets.

However, some Afghans choose to celebrate their independence a little more quietly and within the comfort of their home.

"I asked my interpreter, Mehrullah, how he celebrated Afghan independence day. He said he and his family held a large party with lots of food and music, but no fireworks," Seaman Thomas Liner from Afloat Training Group, Ingleside, Texas, said.

Afterwards, the celebration moved to the provincial Shura Hall at the governor's compound where several poets gathered to recite poems in celebration of Afghan nationalism. The poets recited their verses giving honor to this significant day and to the brave heroes who defended their country against British forces.

Wahidi congratulated the people and the nation for the arrival of the 89th anniversary of Afghan independence. He asked the people to support their legitimate government in the effort to maintain security, pride and dignity.

At the end of the ceremony the participants received gifts donated by the Konar Provincial Reconstruction Team and other donors.

"We were supportive of the Afghans on their independence day celebrations," Lt. Thomas Elms, executive officer for the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division from Mobile, Ala., said. "We didn't schedule any mission, and some of our Soldiers did go downtown to Asadabad to observe the parade and monitor security."

• Date Taken: 08.25.2008
• Date Posted: 08.25.2008 06:42
• Story ID: 22836
• Location: AF