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FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHANK, Afghanistan — Afghan national police from Pul-e-alam supported by Soldiers of the 710th Brigade Support Battalion, Task Force Spartan, to deliver approximately 2000 pounds of school supplies to the Darwesh and Karzai Elementary Schools, near Pul-e-alam, June 2.
Notebooks, pens and soccer balls were handed out, along with many other items in an attempt to provide more amenities for Afghan students.
The most significant gift given during the day was work desks for the otherwise, empty Darwesh Elementary.
"When we found this school, it had no furniture whatsoever. What we've done, using Commander's Emergency Relief Program funds, we've brought furniture for them in order for them to have a better learning experience," said Lt. Col. Eugene Shearer, Commander, 710th BSB.
"I've never been in school and tried to read and write while sitting on the floor. The desks will create a more organized classroom," Cpt. William Bennett, Commander, Company A, 710th BSB.
Battalion leaders hope the basic supplies will help make the learning process easier for Afghan children, who are accustomed to having very little.
As Afghan children ran around excitedly and asked Soldiers for pens, Bennett explained the progress his unit has made in Logar.
"We've made great strides to build trust and relationships in this area. Today's a good day. We actually have furniture and supplies for the children who would otherwise be sitting on the ground," said Bennett.
Bennett says one of the biggest requests from local leaders were the desks. With that request fulfilled, the battalion focus can shift towards other projects in the area like power, well and building projects.
According to Shearer, many more improvements are on the way.
"In our area of operation we've planned projects for several schools, mosques and roads," said Shearer.
Shearer also mentioned International Security Assistance Fund's dedication to helping in Afghanistan.
"It's a long-term commitment. You can't get everything done right away. It takes time," said Shearer.
| Date Taken: | 06.08.2009 |
| Date Posted: | 06.08.2009 07:45 |
| Story ID: | 34693 |
| Location: | FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHANK, AF |
| Web Views: | 407 |
| Downloads: | 390 |
This work, Support battalion provides education amenities to Logar schools, by SPC Chris Baker, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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