By Army Pfc. Daniel M. Rangel
22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
JALALABAD AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – A new Provincial Reconstruction Team assumed its role in the Kunar provincial development during a transfer of authority ceremony, April 14, at the Asadabad PRT compound.
Navy Cmdr. Larry F. LeGree assumed command from Navy Cmdr. Ryan B. Scholl as PRT personnel, theater coalition leaders and local dignitaries, including the provincial governor, looked on.
During his remarks, LeGree expressed his gratitude to the outgoing commander and PRT personnel. He also pledged to continue the provincial progress made by outgoing PRT members.
"On behalf of all the leaders of Kunar, I would personally like to thank you for the many accomplishments of your team and your efforts," LeGree told members of the outgoing organization. "Commander Scholl has put down his weapons of war this past year and picked up the tools of development, as have I."
The new PRT personnel include 30 Sailors, both active and reserve; 51 Soldiers, almost all of whom are Reservists or Guardsmen; and one retired Soldier.
Key leaders in attendance included Army Brig. Gen. Rodney Anderson, Combined Joint Task Force – 82 deputy commander; Army Col. John Nicholson, 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division commander; and the brigade's senior noncommissioned officer, Army Command Sgt. Maj. James Redmore.
Last year, service members at the Asadabad PRT made significant contributions to regional development. Key accomplishments included work on the Pech River Road, which dramatically transformed the region by improving the Kunar economy, making intra-province transportation viable and enhancing security.
Because of the improvements, farmers can now get crops to market and tradesmen can now reach bazaars. Improvements have also allowed the government and coalition forces to respond quickly to emergencies.
The team implemented a development plan that focused on engaging the population through local leaders. The plan has empowered local leaders while providing valuable help to the people of Kunar province.
The PRT promoted security and governance with the opening of three district centers and four police stations. Construction of four other district centers is now underway.
Members of the Asadabad PRT embraced a "One Team" approach that allowed them to work together to complete more than 600 missions and conduct multiple visits to all 15 districts in Kunar province with no PRT casualties.