Combat Logistics Battalion - 3 provides convoy security, care to Afghan women's clinic

Photo By Lance Cpl. Ronald Stauffer | Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles used by Marines with Motor Transportation Company Combat Logistics Battalion-3, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Afghanistan, keep a safe distance from each other during a medical support convoy enroute to Camp Hero, Nov. 19. SPMAGTF-A's mission is to train and mentor the Afghan national police and conduct counterinsurgency operations.  

AFGHANISTAN

11.19.2008

Story by Lance Cpl. Ronald Stauffer 

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command

By Lance Cpl. Ronald W. Stauffer
Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Afghanistan

CAMP HERO, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion - 3 conducted their first convoy, providing security during a medical support mission to Camp Hero, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Nov.19.

A Navy medical team with CLB-3, and a medical officer with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron – 466, both assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force -Afghanistan, traveled with a CLB-3 security convoy to an Afghan regional military hospital to provide health care to Afghan woman.

Upon arrival, the medical team conducted check-ups, physicals and prescribed medication to more than 20 Afghan women.

"I think it's important to show them we can provide other services than war fighting and that we're here to provide medical care," said Navy Lt. Evy Potochny, the medical officer for CLB-3. "Health care is universal and everyone can use it."

Prior to departure, the convoy took all precautionary measures before exiting the gate.

"You never know what you're going to encounter, but the platoon conducts rehearsals, mission plans and obtains intelligence on the route the convoy will be taking," said Staff Sgt. Stephen Girouard, platoon sergeant for 1st Platoon, Motor Transportation Co.

Once the mission was complete, the Marines and Sailors convoyed home.

"It went well," Girouard said. "Despite the dangers, the mission was a great success for the convoy and medical personnel. The Marines are anxious to go on their next mission and won't let anything stand in their way to help the Afghan people."

• Date Taken: 11.19.2008
• Date Posted: 11.21.2008 06:49
• Story ID: 26624
• Location: AF