Partnership benefits ANA, US troops

CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN

04.29.2011

Story by Sgt. Rachael Moore 

II Marine Expeditionary Force   

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – For the past four months, the Embedded Partnering Team with Combat Logistics Battalion 8, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) has worked hand-in-hand with the 5th Kandak, Afghan National Army, on convoy operations, driving courses, convoy escorts and other essential aspects to help them become an independent military.

The 5th Kandak reached a level of sustainment in which they were able to return the favor and help the Marines, April 29.

“The Marines at [Forward Operating Base] Nolay, [Afghanistan], needed a resupply,” explained Maj. David Mills, the officer in charge of the EPT, CLB-8, 2nd MLG (Fwd.). “I asked the kandak commander if we can use his trucks to take some supplies to them. He looked at me and said, ‘Of course, we will help. After all, we have the same enemy.’”

The 5th Kandak transported 60 pallets of rations to FOB Nolay, and on the return trip, took 50 pallets of Meals-Ready-To-Eat from Camp Leatherneck and delivered them to FOB Delaram, Afghanistan, to resupply the regimental combat team operating in the area.

“It won’t replace us using our own vehicles, but it provides flexibility to resupply missions,” added Mills. “It gives the operations officers another avenue to get supplies out.”

Marines with the EPT have traveled with the 5th Kandak during all of their resupply missions to assist them in convoy operations, provide additional security and spent many months training them, so one day they can stand alone.

“Usually a partnership is just a one way street with us helping them, but now the ANA is at the level where they can help us,” concluded Mills.

• Date Taken: 04.29.2011
• Date Posted: 05.05.2011 02:33
• Story ID: 69858
• Location: CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF