Afghan security forces in Paktika help make New Year celebration safe

PAKTIKA, AFGHANISTAN

03.21.2010

Courtesy Story

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

By U.S. Army Capt. Matt Sraj

PAKTIKA PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Citizens of Afghanistan's Paktika province safely rang in the Islamic New Year 1389, March 21, thanks to the planning and professionalism of Paktika's Security Forces.

Paktika province's Afghanistan Uniformed Police, Afghan national army and National Directorate of Security planned and led an operation that increased security for the arrival of the Islamic New Year.

Maj. Abdul Rahman, of the Paktika AUP, was pleased with how well the security plan came together.

"All [Afghan national security forces] did a great job, especially the AUP, securing the compounds and surrounding areas following the plan laid out in the [Operational Coordination Center — Provincial]. They set up check points, conducted security patrols, placed guards on the top of the taller structures, and had a large AUP force on [Quick Reaction Force]. All forces maintained good radio communication and the QRF was ready if needed," he said.

Col. Skujeshi, acting commander of 2nd Brigade, 203rd ANA Corps, echoed Rahman's statement.

"All forces in Paktika performed in an outstanding manner," he said.

Coalition forces from Task Force Iron agreed the combined security planning and execution was successful, and set the framework for continued safety in the province. Afghan security forces made it possible for people to enjoy the holiday.

"The hard work of Paktika's Security Forces allowed the citizens of the province to celebrate without fear of attack. Everywhere we went over the last two days, we saw families eating together, groups of friends dancing and Sangay competitions. All of this was due to the increased security in the province that the Afghans planned and executed," said Lt. Col. David Fivecoat, commander of Task Force Iron, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division.

The AUP, ANA, NDS and Task Force Iron will conduct further security planning meetings and work diligently to make 1389 a peaceful year in the Paktika province, Fivecoat said.

• Date Taken: 03.21.2010
• Date Posted: 03.24.2010 02:54
• Story ID: 47124
• Location: PAKTIKA, AF