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COMBAT OUTPOST HERRERA, Afghanistan - Afghanistan national police defended the Ahmad Kheyl District Center ANP station against an insurgent attack in the Paktya province of eastern Afghanistan, May 8, which resulted in nine confirmed insurgent deaths.
The ANP chief for the area, had previously gathered intelligence regarding the insurgents, who were suspected to be planning an infiltration route to target the ANP and international security forces, and organized a joint defense operation the day prior, said Cpt. Richard Groen, the Troop C commander for 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division.
"I was really impressed by the ability of the ANP chief to develop intelligence and derive it into an operation. He should be applauded," said Groen.
On May 8, in conjunction with the intelligence, Sub-Governor Zewani Khan, along with the ANP chief and 10 policemen, battled an estimated 30 to 50 insurgents who attacked them wielding rocket propelled grenades and machine guns. They stood their ground for a half-hour while support from Troop C moved from defensive positions to the battle area.
"They held the fighters off for 30 to 45 minutes with no support, repelling the enemy force. The bravery of these men, to stand and fight, alone, was immense," said Groen.
After arriving to assist the ANP, the scout platoon functioned in a supporting role, enabling the ANP to lead.
"The coordination was directed by the ANP. They assured de-confliction of fires and maneuvering, which allowed all of us to react with accuracy and lethality," said Groen.
The battle raged on, and air support assets were called in for assistance.
"An ISAF aircraft was in range to provide observation. 15 to 20 fighters were hiding in a wati, and after the unmanned aerial vehicle and the aircraft verified no civilians were within range, two 500 lb. bombs were released, one an air-burst and one a ground-burst," said Groen.
Each Soldier fought bravely and proved their proficiency, but one in particular demonstrated valorous combat performance.
"Sgt. Brent Holmes had to dive out of the way of an RPG that was shot at him. He immediately gained composure and shot back with a hand-held mortar, destroying a four-man enemy team," said 3rd Platoon Leader, 1st Lt. Colin O'Donnell.
Not only were the Soldiers exceptionally courageous, they confirmed their technical and tactical skill. The ANP acted as forward observers during the fight, communicating with the U.S. mortar-men and adjusting their fires. O'Donnell said both the ANP and C Troop worked cohesively and professionally with one another.
"The communication was clear and coordinated, and they all did great. We took some direct fire, and everyone stayed calm and kept a cool head. It was encouraging," he said.
Aside of the ANP and C Troop Soldiers, another group of men showed selflessness and honor.
"60 Afghanistan national security forces from Chamkani drove to the rescue. They chose to leave their homes and their families to support their brothers-in-arms, which is truly admirable," said Groen.
The dedication and endurance of the mixed forces, US and Afghan, resulted in defeat for the insurgents.
Nine insurgents have been confirmed dead, and one wounded man was found, treated and released to Afghan authorities. Groen said they have observed 11 funerals, and that intelligence estimates at least 20 insurgents were killed.
"Our Soldiers have really grasped the concept of working hand-in-hand with their Afghan counterparts, and that leads to the overall success of this mission," said Groen.
| Date Taken: | 05.29.2009 |
| Date Posted: | 05.29.2009 11:22 |
| Story ID: | 34285 |
| Location: | COMBAT OUTPOST HERRERA, US |
| Web Views: | 368 |
| Downloads: | 337 |
This work, Afghan national police, International Security Assistance Force work together to defeat insurgents, by PFC Andrya Hill, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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