ZABUL PROVINCE, Afghanistan – While honoring those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul watched as the commander of Combined Task Force Arrowhead transferred authority of the PRT to U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Justin Kraft from U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Marc Sheie at Forward Operating Base Smart Nov. 11.
U.S. Army Col. Chuck Webster, CTF-AH commander, presided over the ceremony and commented on the significance of the day.
“On the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 the cannons of World War I ended,” said Webster. “Thus ending ‘the war to end all wars.’ Since then we have taken the time to pause on this day to remember all of our veterans and fallen comrades who have fought for freedom.”
Webster dedicated the ceremony and held a moment of silence in honor of Lt. Col. Albert Smart who died in 2004 and who the base is named for.
Ceremony attendees included the Zabul Provincial Governor Alhaj Mohammad Ashraf Naseri, members of the Provincial Council and commanders from throughout Zabul province. Governor Naseri had a few words for the departing and incoming commanders and for all members of Zabul PRT.
“I’m glad to see that the PRT is committed to improving security and bringing about the change of the socio-economic development of Zabul,” said Naseri. “We have achieved a lot but we still need to do more to accomplish and reach our final destination which is a stable and secure Zabul. So on behalf of the people of Zabul I wish all the best to Colonel Sheie and I would like to welcome the new team. Let’s work together so we can handle the key challenges and problems.”
During the ceremony, Webster commented on the tenure of the departing team and their accomplishments throughout their deployment.
“This truly is a collection of remarkable Airmen and women, Soldiers (active and reserve), civilians, retired Marines and contractors all led by one of the finest command teams I’ve had the privilege to serve with,” said Webster. “Together with Governor Naseri’s guidance, and leadership, this team of remarkable professionals has helped to build one of the best provincial governments in Zabul.”
After passing the guidon to Kraft, the departing commander had a few words about his time in Zabul and for the new commander.
“Today, on Veteran’s Day, war is coming to an end for Sergeant Major Morse and me,” said Sheie. “All of us in Zabul PRT have worked shoulder to shoulder with our Afghan partners every day. We’ve experienced their leadership qualities and are certain of their capability to build a unifying vision that leads the people to achieve that vision and bring peace to the people of Zabul and Afghanistan.”
Following Sheie’s remarks, the new commander of the Zabul PRT had a few words for the outgoing commander, for the PRT members under his command and the people of Zabul.
“The most significant accomplishment you have done as commander is returned all of your team back to their families with all their parts intact,” said Kraft. “This is possibly the greatest accomplishment any commander can make in a combat zone.”
To the governor and the people of Zabul province, Kraft ensured that though there is a change in leadership and personnel there wouldn’t be a change in commitment or strategy. Kraft also pledged to his team his commitment to see them all home safe.
“My promise to my Airmen, Marines, Soldiers, Sailors and civilians on my FOB, I pledge to you that I will try wholeheartedly to return you to your families with all your parts and pieces intact,” said Kraft.
| Date Taken: | 11.11.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 11.21.2012 06:39 |
| Story ID: | 98205 |
| Location: | ZABUL PROVINCE, AF |
| Web Views: | 534 |
| Downloads: | 4 |
This work, PRT Zabul welcomes new leadership, by SSgt Patrice Clarke, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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