Narang district welcomes newest Afghan Local Police graduates

AFGHANISTAN

06.23.2012

Story by Maj. Cindi King 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

NARANG DISTRICT, Afghanistan - More than fifty Afghan volunteers completed their training as Afghan Local Police and were recognized during a graduation ceremony in Narang district, June 23.

This graduating class was unique because it is the last in the district before coalition forces transition complete control of the ALP program to district leaders.

“The success of the program enabled the district to meet its authorized number of ALP,” said a coalition adviser. “Afghan National Police and experienced ALP members led the training of this class with minimal assistance from coalition forces.”

The ALP graduation ceremony kicked-off with a demonstration of capabilities after their almost month-long training. The students conducted a security patrol and showed how they respond to an improvised explosive device explosion. Their actions included establishing a security perimeter, contacting Afghan National Police for reinforcement and rendering first-aid to simulated casualties. Ten members of nearby ANP supported the exercise, along with coalition Apache helicopters and ground vehicles.

“We wanted to show the district officials and tribal elders the capabilities of ALP and how they coordinate with ANP as the quick reaction force,” said a coalition adviser. “We also wanted to show how coalition forces are here to support them and will be there if they need us.”

Following the demonstration, the Afghan district leadership expressed their approval of the students’ achievements. A common theme in speeches by district and tribal leaders was to work honestly with the people and the community will support them.

“It is good you are ALP and are pulling security to help protect residents and support the Afghan government,” said Sayed Zewer Shah Sadaad, Narang district sub-governor. “Build good relationships and the people will support you in the villages.”

Sadaad added while ALP had accomplished a lot over the last three months, there was still a lot more to be done and the government will be with them every step of the way.

Standing in formation, the ALP class eagerly waited for their names to be called to be recognized. After each student received his graduation certificate, he held it up high above his head and shouted “Long live Afghanistan; we serve for the Afghan people.”

“We should appreciate the Americans. They have traveled a long way to help us,” said Haji Attullah, chief elder in Narang district.

The ALP program began in 2010 after a decree by President Karzai to improve security as insurgents were intimidating and attacking remote villages. Coalition forces have been assisting training ALP as part of Village Stability Operations. The program is run through the Ministry of Interior to the district centers.

“The ALP program works because these volunteers know their villages and who does not belong,” said a coalition adviser. “It’s like your neighborhood watch program.”

• Date Taken: 06.23.2012
• Date Posted: 06.27.2012 05:41
• Story ID: 90658
• Location: AF