Afghan national army joins forces with Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan on VCR mission

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

10.05.2008

Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Douglas Mappin 

NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

By Petty Officer 1st Class Douglas Mappin
Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Joining forces with the soldiers from the Afghan National Army, service members from Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan presented food, blankets, first-aid kits, personal hygiene kits and other items to assist needy families last month.

The volunteer community relations program at Camp Eggers is a humanitarian effort providing assistance to Afghan families living in poverty.

According to Lt. Col. Montoya, CSTC-A inspector general, service members from CSTC-A visit different communities and schools in the Kabul area nearly every week, and have been doing so for the past two years.

"This is the first time we have joined together with the ANA for a VCR mission," Montoya said. "And it is a great way for them to present a humanitarian face to their people. We are excited to join with them."

While most of the U.S. service members played soccer and football with the children in an adjoining field, another group including ANA soldiers unloaded a truckload of food staples and other items, which would provide aid to the 80 families selected to receive humanitarian assistance.

Working together, the two teams stood side by side passing black garbage bags down the line where they awaited distribution to the needy families. Food, blankets and other household items would provide aid as the winter months approach.

During this VCR mission, ANA Command Sgt. Maj. Roshan Safi and more than 20 men from his command assisted in handing out food and goods to the people of the village.

According to Montoya, Safi knew of a number of communities needing aid and suggested his men join CSTC-A on a VCR mission. Once arrangements were made, the two teams coordinated distribution of the care packages.

"My people will not forget the good heart of Americans," Safi said. "I want to thank the volunteers for taking the time to help my people."

• Date Taken: 10.05.2008
• Date Posted: 10.05.2008 05:37
• Story ID: 24532
• Location: KABUL, AF