Pittsburgh native Smith sets example

KANDAHAR PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN

02.22.2013

Story by Staff Sgt. Jeff Neff 

Provincial Reconstruction Team Kandahar

CAMP NATHAN SMITH, Afghanistan - The Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team congratulates Pittsburgh native U.S. Navy Logistics Specialist Seaman Renard Smith for being selected by senior enlisted members as February’s Emissary of the Month on Feb. 8. Smith has been selected for his contribution to the mission, excelling in professional development.

Each month, Kandahar Provincial reconstruction Team Sergeant Major Leon Haith holds a board similar to the Army’s Soldier of the Month competition, but in the joint service and civilian-military environment, he hosts the Emissary of the Month board. Smith’s achievement illustrates the impact that any sailor or soldier can have on their mission during a critical period in their unit’s history.

Smith, a Pittsburgh native, demonstrates his commitment through enthusiasm in helping others and spirit of volunteerism. Serving as a crucial element to the KPRT’s overall mission, his efforts further prepare the KPRT for redeployment.


As the 2014 transition timeline approaches, KPRT members have increased their readiness for redeployment and reduced the ‘footprint’ where they live. A ‘footprint’ is made up of items or evidence of one’s existence. Smith has already moved nearly $400,000 of equipment, packing more than 16 tri-wall containers and emptying conexes in preparation for the equipment’s move to Kandahar Airfield.

Smith is normally seen wherever a helping hand is needed. He is responsible for ordering, accountability, and management of all materials and equipment used to support KPRT operations. The total is valued at nearly $20 million.

Smith routinely helps others outside the scope of his normal duties. Recently, Smith served as a driver for convoy missions, assisted in storage organization in the communication shop, and helped in many other projects throughout the KPRT.

Smith is known for his spirit of volunteerism, and has proven himself a reliable resource. He has worked with Sergeant Major Leon Haith in several projects, and most recently he transported large amounts of wood to improve living conditions. Smith also volunteers to sort and transport mail.

Making the most of the deployed environment, Smith continues to further his education. He is currently enrolled in a degree program for e-marketing with Ashford University. Smith is also completing the 100 Series “Fundamentals” of the Enlisted Information Dominance Warfare qualification.

The leadership of the unit continually praises LSSN Smith as a reliable, dedicated, and professional helper. He serves as an example and as a notice all sailors and soldiers can claim a major role in the conclusion of over a decade in Afghanistan.

• Date Taken: 02.22.2013
• Date Posted: 02.23.2013 23:49
• Story ID: 102463
• Location: KANDAHAR PROVINCE, AF