LAGHMAN, Afghanistan - Sens. James Inhofe of Oklahoma and John Boozman of Arkansas, along with Rep. Randy Neugebauer of Texas, visited the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team at Forward Operating Base Gamberi, Afghanistan, Sept. 30, to assess equipment and to deliver a high-tech device that will help save lives.
The senators and representative hand-carried a Fido NXT, a device used to detect explosives and explosive residue, to the 45th IBCT to begin using immediately. The Fido NXT is the newest version of explosive detection devices, and the 45th IBCT is the first to field it in Afghanistan.
Inhofe is no stranger to Afghanistan. He has visited multiple times and already has future plans to return.
“The reason I come is to talk to the soldiers,” said Inhofe. “Most senators just go to Washington to get their information, but I like to come and get the info from the soldiers firsthand.”
During the visit, the three members of the congressional delegation ate lunch with soldiers and talked about everyday life on the FOB. They toured a few facilities, including the aid station and tactical operations center. They also had hands-on experience with the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles the soldiers use.
“I’m a visual guy,” said Neugebauer. “I like to see how the equipment you [soldiers] are given, helps you guys.”
After their tour, the delegation received a current operations briefing by members of the 45th IBCT staff. Among the topics discussed were the threats of improvised explosive devises to soldiers, as well as the 45th’s partnership with the Afghan National Army.