FARYAB PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Local Afghan citizens saw the Afghan National Army 1st/209th Route Clearance Company clearing routes for the Afghan National Police and Norwegian Provincial Reconstruction Team-Maymanah for the first time outside the city of Maymanah.
In a unique display of solidarity, the show of force included U.S. Army route clearance vehicles from Task Force Roughneck, TF Sword playing a supporting role while the ANA cleared the routes and the ANP conducted a reconnaissance on an insurgent stronghold.
“You could see everyone staring at the ANA as they led the ANP, Norwegian and U.S. vehicles on patrol,” said U.S. Army 1st Lt. Jose Hernandez, a platoon leader with the 1014th Sapper Company, TF Roughneck. “This was the 1st/209th RCC’s first mission. The people were impressed. The people’s reactions motivated the ANA soldiers.”
According to the Norwegian PRT patrol commander, the mission was simple: clear the route from any threats so the ANP could conduct their mission outside an insurgent held village.
“The ANP haven’t been there for a while because of the IED [improvised explosive device] threats,” explained Norwegian army Maj. Ole Johan with the Norwegian PRT and mentor for the ANP. “With the ANA RCC clearing the way, the police were able to successfully complete their mission. This mission was a good learning experience for both the ANA and ANP to coordinate and work together for future missions.”
The ANA RCC commander said the mission was essential for his soldiers to get familiarized with the surrounding area and its people and to develop a battle rhythm. He said he was pleased with his unit’s performance.
“Their discipline was very good, and now we know the area and the local people,” said ANA Capt. Ghulam, the commander of the 1st/209th RCC. “Thanks to our mentors, today we were able to successfully complete our first mission, and this has prepared me and my men for future independent missions. With our training and God’s will, we are ready.”
Hernandez said the 1st/209th has developed strong leadership and command and control. He said their mission was a good start on the road to independent operations.
“This was a unique first mission for the 1st/209th RCC,” Hernandez concluded. “The Afghan people saw how committed the ANA and the ANP were working together. Their reactions were positive.”
| Date Taken: | 03.05.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 03.20.2012 11:38 |
| Story ID: | 85490 |
| Location: | FARYAB PROVINCE, AF |
| Web Views: | 253 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, ANA unit takes the lead on route clearance patrol, by SFC Glenn Sierra, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
