ANA, ISAF working together to improve security

KANDAHAR, AFGHANISTAN

12.20.2010

Story by Spc. Cardell Brown 

1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of U.S Forces - Afghanistan visited the Arghandab District Dec. 19 in order to show his appreciation for the hard work the Afghan National Army and International Security Assistance Force are doing to improve security in the area.

After presenting awards to several U.S. soldiers for their heroism and selfless service, the general addressed the troops and expressed his gratitude for all of their sacrifices.

As part of his speech, Petraeus said there was a time when security in the Arghandab District was thought to be unattainable. However due to the soldiers’ resilience and heroism – that is now a reality.

“Years from now, we will all be able to look back on the surge that was completed by the soldiers as an historical accomplishment,” said Petraeus.

These accomplishments are made possible by soldiers from units like 2nd Platoon, 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, currently assigned to 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and their Afghan counterparts who conduct joint patrols on a daily basis.

As the ANA soldiers exited the front gate on one accord with their ISAF counterparts, everyone was in good spirits.

The patrols are designed to build rapport with the local population and evaluate the area’s current security level, as well as mentor the ANA to be able to take full control of security without assistance.

“By conducting daily patrols, we’re able to build relationships and ensure the villagers’ security,” said 1st Lt. Timothy Hopper, a platoon leader for 1-320th FA Regt., 101st Abn. “Our intention is to build a long lasting relationship with the local population.”

Upon entering Khoshr Owolya, the troops immediately met with a local villager on his way to a nearby mosque. He spoke to the patrol about how the security in the area had greatly improved since their arrival.

With a grin on his face, the villager expressed his gratitude for not having to walk around the Khoshr Owolya area for fear of improvised explosive devices, which was the case before Afghan National Security Force arrived with their U.S. partners.

“Not everyone has the opportunity to see the difference they’re making in a person’s life,” said Spc. Calvin Gilkey, intelligence, 1-320th FAR, 101st AB. “Regardless of the sacrifices I make by being away from my family, I enjoy having the opportunity to make a better life for all of our families.”

• Date Taken: 12.20.2010
• Date Posted: 01.03.2011 10:32
• Story ID: 62941
• Location: KANDAHAR, AF