Nimruz leaders say farewell to II MEF, welcome I MEF

CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN

03.09.2012

Story by Lance Cpl. Mark Garcia 

Regional Command Southwest

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – During a time of transition, provincial leaders from Nimruz province conducted a meeting March 9 with the outgoing and incoming commanders of Regional Command Southwest.

Topics discussed during the meeting included the governance, security and developmental successes of Nimruz within the last couple of years since International Security Assistance Forces started working in the region.

“There used to not be any provincial reconstruction teams that existed in this region, and the people were really disappointed with their way of life,” said Qasim Khydri, the deputy governor of Nimruz. “The work that has been done here, including all the projects done since ISAF came here, is truly extraordinary. You have completely built the confidence and trust of the Nimruz people. All the people of Nimruz are happy for what you have done for them.”

During the meeting, Maj. Gen. John A. Toolan, the commanding general for RC (SW), praised the leadership and security efforts taking place in Nimruz.

“It was always obvious to me from the beginning days that the leadership in Nimruz is very good and that they have a really good handle on their security. We really just tried to assist in that area as much as possible,” Maj. Gen. Toolan said. “We’re finding out that as transition occurs, more and more Afghan police officers and soldiers are sacrificing in terms of injuries and deaths. It’s evident that it’s not an easy fight, but the Afghans are certainly stepping up and taking care of business.”

The meeting also provided the leaders of Nimruz the opportunity to say farewell to Maj. Gen. Toolan and welcome Maj. Gen. Charles M. Gurganus, who is assuming command of RC (SW).

• Date Taken: 03.09.2012
• Date Posted: 03.10.2012 11:19
• Story ID: 85046
• Location: CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF