New England Marines join Afghan district governor in visit to Helmand communities

WASHER DISTRICT , AFGHANISTAN

10.12.2011

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Jonathan David Chandler 

Regional Command Southwest

WASHER, Afghanistan - On the outskirts of Camp Leatherneck there are local Afghan farmers who are trying to stop trespassers from using their land.

Lt Col. Daniel Kreider, executive officer of the New England-based 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, accompanied District Governor of Washer, Muhammed Daoud, as he held shuras with numerous farmers to discuss squatters illegally using their land.

“The meeting with the elders was to discuss land rights as most of them are squatting illegally on the land,” said Kreider. “He spoke to them about legalizing their land and being registered with the government to pay tax.”

The meeting was not only an opportunity for the district governor to speak about the local land being using illegally, but also to discuss growing poppy plants so close to U.S. forces at Camp Leatherneck, who provide them with protection.

The shura was a success, with over 40 local farmers showing up. Most of these locals had never met with their district governor, and the forum gave them a chance to address problems directly to him and receive instant feedback, furthering the DG’s credibility in the community, said Kreider.

“It is critical that they not only know who he is but that they are engaged with him on these issues, particularly the land use and poppy,” he explained. “The Washer DG must build a relationship with the local villagers and farmers to build credibility and respect in this area. He can do that by inserting himself and following through with what he says he is going to do. We (1/25) will continue to facilitate those opportunities and be an enabler to the DG while we serve here in Afghanistan.”

• Date Taken: 10.12.2011
• Date Posted: 10.15.2011 04:22
• Story ID: 78526
• Location: WASHER DISTRICT , AF