Marines give British, Afghans awards for service

CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN

03.18.2010

Story by Cpl. Paul Basciano 

2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan - Five nations came together in a ceremony where the uniforms varied as much as the services involved.

Brigade Headquarters Group, Marine Expeditionary Brigade- Afghanistan, hosted an award ceremony here, March 18, to recognize some of their Afghan, Bahraini, British and Danish counterparts.

All of the services present are responsible for regional security in Afghanistan, conducting counterinsurgency operations while partnered with Afghan national army units.

"After six months of patrols, we have good relations with the other forces," said Afghan National Army Capt. Muhammed Rahim. "It's a mutual feeling."



Rahim, one of eight decorated servicemembers, was awarded the Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal for his willingness to learn and teach new tactics to his soldiers and for his concern and care during key leader engagements.

"I am happy to receive the award and the recognition, but I feel the credit should go to my soldiers, not just me," said Rahim.

MEB-Afghanistan MHG Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Christopher Naler awarded all the recipients and paused to let them reflect on how much of an impact they had on the area as well as Camp Leatherneck.

"We work and sweat together during missions," said Naler.

Six members of the British Royal air force where also recognized for their accomplishments while serving with the Marines.

"I am very honored and humbled to receive this award," said Mick Smeath, a RAF wing commander.

Smeath was awarded the Navy Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his efforts in setting up tactics for the protection of Camps Bastion and Leatherneck and for executing joint patrols during operation Moshtarak.

After the awards were handed out, Naler called the formation together and presented plaques to all the military units in attendance for their work with the Marines.

"Our relationships have gone from a cautious uneasy partnership to a true brotherhood," said Naler.

After all the awards were disseminated, the formation dismissed the service members from five countries sat down for a celebratory barbeque dinner together, just as they work.

• Date Taken: 03.18.2010
• Date Posted: 03.26.2010 04:13
• Story ID: 47232
• Location: CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF