Photo By Cpl. Kenneth Jasik | Marines with Security Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 15 (Forward), 1st Marine...... read more read more
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HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – After more than five days of traversing the challenging Afghanistan terrain, the Marines and sailors of Combat Logistics Regiment 15 (Forward), 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), in partnership with Afghan contractors, delivered fuel to Marines of 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division (Forward), Jan. 13-19.
The Marines provided security as Afghan truck drivers delivered more than 40 large trucks filled with diesel fuel to be used for generators, heaters and vehicles at Forward Operating Base Edinburgh and Combat Outpost Cafferetta in northern Helmand province.
“It is a great job and a great responsibility,” said Sgt. Tristan C. Brown, security element leader, Security Company, CLR-15 (FWD), 1st MLG (FWD). “It really feels like we’re doing something out here when we can see the direct resupply to the infantry.”
The mission not only benefits Regional Command (Southwest), it also assists local Afghans as well. By providing additional jobs, missions such as these help fuel the Afghan economy.
“We’re trying to get some of this money back in the economy, so they can start to rebuild their own state,” said Staff Sgt. Gilbert D. Stubbs, operations chief, Security Co., CLR-15 (FWD), 1st MLG (FWD). “We’re not here as occupiers. We’re trying to help the Afghan people get some kind of stable foundation, and that’s what we’re doing here.”
Along with being a vital supply link, the Marines enjoyed having the chance to interact with Afghans and learn about their culture. During the operation, the Marines received positive feedback from their Afghan partners.
“Some of [the Afghan drivers] are really interested in us; they want to learn English from us,” said Brown. “The say happy little phrases, make hand signs, thumbs up, that type of thing.”
The Marines understand the importance of working alongside local nationals on missions like these.
“[It’s about] them improving their own country,” said Brown, 25, from Oak Harbor, Wash. “They have a hand in it. It isn’t just us doing all the work for them. We’re teaching them how to fish, and it’s important.”
| Date Taken: | 01.13.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 01.24.2011 01:56 |
| Story ID: | 64092 |
| Location: | HELMAND PROVINCE, AF |
| Web Views: | 92 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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