LOGAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – The 8th Special Operations Kandak completed a move to Forward Operating Base Shank Dec. 2 in Pul-e-Alam district.
The purpose of the move is to improve security in the Logar and Wardak provinces and establish a stronghold that can protect Kabul from insurgents.
Afghan Maj. Abdul Satar, 8th SOK commander said, “There have been too many security issues in the Logar and Wardak provinces in the last few months and by working together with our partnered Afghan forces, we will improve security in this province.”
The 8th SOK was previously stationed in Tarin Kowt district, Uruzgan province where they effectively improved security.
This move was brought about as Afghan National Security Forces continue to lead the fight against insurgency throughout Afghanistan and as U.S. coalition forces remain in an advise and assist role.
However, Satar stressed the importance of long-term support from local Afghan citizens.
“[The 8th SOK commandos] want to win the hearts and earn the trust and respect of the Afghan people. We want the people to assist us and give us any information they have on insurgent activities whether it is the location of improvised explosive devices, or any known insurgent movements,” said Satar.
According to Satar, the 8th SOK is ready to make positive changes in the surrounding region.
Satar said, “My commandos are well armed, we have plenty of weapons and ammunition and are ready to act. We are here for the Afghan people.”