FARAH, Afghanistan – Soldiers with “Jester” platoon, the military police element of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, assisted Afghan Uniformed Police in reinforcing the security at Substation 2, Dec. 14.
“As all Afghan Security Forces continue to transition into increasingly independent fighting forces, it is now our responsibility to provide them with the tools and knowledge to succeed on their own,” said Staff Sgt. Joseph Parks, a squad leader in the MP platoon. “A major part of that is ensuring they understand how to properly utilize the tools at their disposal.”
Tools at their disposal include security barriers, commonly referred to as HESCO barriers. HESCO barriers are square welded-mesh frame works with an inner liner. Once set into place, they are filled with dirt to create security walls.
While assisting the AUP, the MPs taught them the proper techniques and procedures for improving their base defenses.
“Every time we conduct a joint mission and assist the AUP our partnership continues to get stronger,” Parks said.
In the upcoming weeks, the platoon plans to conduct several follow-up visits to help finish filling the HESCO barriers with dirt, ensure that the reinforcements remain to standard and make certain that the AUP are properly utilizing their improved force protection measures.
“Although the initial force protection improvements are almost complete, conducting additional assessments is vital,” said 2nd Lt. Joshua Motes, the platoon leader. “We want to reinforce our partnership as brothers in arms by working and training side-by-side. As we continue to do this, I believe the trust and respect we have for each other will be unbreakable.”