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    Leaders surprise coalition troops on Christmas

    KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

    12.25.2010

    Courtesy Story

    ISAF Joint Command

    KABUL, Afghanistan – Italian Air Force Gen. Vincenzo Camporini, Italian chief of defense; U.S. Army Gen. David Petraeus, commander, International Security Assistance Force; and Italian Army Brig. Gen. Marcello Bellacicco, commander, Regional Command-West, met with coalition soldiers and delivered holiday messages of thanks and encouragement in Bakwah District, Farah province today.

    “I know that it is difficult for you to be here, especially this time of the year,” said Camporini.

    “Boun Natale (Merry Christmas) and Grazie (thank you)”, said Petraeus, as many looked both surprised and impressed when the general addressed them in Italian. He then asked the soldiers to gather around him to be closer and more personal.

    Bakwah is one of the more volatile areas in RC-West, and the soldiers based there often engage insurgents in kinetic activities. However, many civilian-military cooperation initiatives and developments continue to improve the situation there.

    “Our soldiers here are doing wonderful work in tough places,” Petraeus said. “It’s a privilege for the other 48 ISAF countries to serve with the Italians.”

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 12.25.2010
    Date Posted: 12.25.2010 12:18
    Story ID: 62598
    Location: KABUL, AF

    Web Views: 101
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN