Afghans share their culture with American soldiers

KANDAHAR, AFGHANISTAN

09.03.2011

Story by Spc. April York 

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – The evening air was cool and the atmosphere was joyous as the flames on the grill licked the skewered lamb kabobs in preparation for an Eid celebration on Camp Nathan Smith, Sept. 3.

The command teams of CNS and equal opportunity advisors organized the celebration to say thank you to their partners, soldiers and interpreters for a job well done. Local nationals including military, police and citizens attended with American soldiers by their side.

“I am very happy to have shared tonight with [American soldiers],” said Haji Tor Jan, local leader and organizer of villages surrounding CNS. “I know it is not your celebration but we are grateful to share it with you.”

“This was a great way to capture a spectacular event by enjoying a piece of Afghanistan culture,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Dale Veneklasen, command sergeant major for 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

Smells of seared meat wafted through the air and everyone was eager to get a taste of the feast prepared by the Afghans. A long table overflowing with rice, potato salad, coleslaw, chicken, lamb kabobs, flat bread, fried potatoes, and for dessert, watermelon and white melon, stretched past rows of chairs.

“The food is amazing; I like the lamb kabobs, and the flat bread is incredible,” said 1st Sgt. Landon Jackson, 749th Explosive Ordinance Disposal team, Task Force Paladin South, working in support of 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

“I enjoy these events because I get to see more of the culture of Afghanistan,” said Spc. Jacob Gaulthir, 749th EOD, while devouring the last of his flat bread. “Plus the food is amazing.”

The Afghans and soldiers enjoyed good conversation while partaking in the feast. The dinner was by no means the end of the celebration. Just as conversations were winding down a local band took the stage beating the drums, playing keyboards and singing in their native tongue.

Both Afghans and soldiers alike were clapping their hands and moving to the music. The music was so uplifting that some jumped up and took to the make-shift dance floor.

“Tonight we shared an experience many wouldn’t understand; however, this experience can be shared with those who want to understand,” Veneklasen said.

“We have a bond together and if it’s your Christmas we will do the same celebration for you guys; we will bring you food, music and everything,” Tor Jan said.

The evening came to a close with a local comedian, Khan Mohammed, who regaled the audience with his wit and charm. Even though he spoke in Pashto his energy and body movements were so contagious, both Afghans and soldiers were laughing and smiling from ear to ear.

“The evening was a hit, but more importantly the sharing of culture was priceless,” Veneklasen said.

• Date Taken: 09.03.2011
• Date Posted: 09.05.2011 12:29
• Story ID: 76476
• Location: KANDAHAR, AF