Baghoulmast villagers meet ISAF troops for the first time

QAISAR, AFGHANISTAN

04.29.2011

Story by Ensign Peter Lee 

ISAF Regional Command North

QAISAR, Afghanistan – Afghan National Policemen escorted ISAF troops to Baghoulmast village, Faryab province in Regional Command North, April 29.

ISAF soldiers from the U.S. Army A Battery, 1st Battalion, 84th Field Artillery Regiment, 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team along with the policemen from the Chil Gazy checkpoint went to the village to assess their needs and to offer their assistance and partnership.

“We wanted to see if we could fill in the gaps,” said U.S. Army 1Lt. Leo Su, 1st platoon leader, A Battery, 1-84 Field Artillery. “We came to show our presence here, but not in a hostile manner. We also wanted to show them that we support the government and to use them for their needs.”

“We try to anticipate what they need and identify the problem but you won’t have the entire perspective until you sit down,” added U.S. Army Capt. John Seils, executive officer, A Battery, 1st Battalion, 84th Field Artillery Regiment, 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

Su added they also wanted to showcase their partnership with local authorities.

“We have a good relationship with the ANP,” explained Su. “Every time we go out, we go with the ANP.”

“I am proud to work with ISAF,” said Hayatullah, Chil Gazy ANP checkpoint commander. “ISAF forces help us and we appreciate it. You come to villages and as a result, friendships will grow; that is what we are working for.”

Hayatullah explained Baghoulmast, in particular, wanted help.

“We have to help them,” added Hayatullah. “This village has had more casualties than other villages because of Taliban improvised explosive devices.”

During their visit, Su met with the village elders, who explained the need for a water well and building for a school as well as improvements to their mosque.

• Date Taken: 04.29.2011
• Date Posted: 05.03.2011 17:20
• Story ID: 69802
• Location: QAISAR, AF