KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan Air Force Capt. Naqeebullah, a non-destructive inspection technician and general supervisor, at the Afghan Air Force base in Kabul, Afghanistan helps to bring safety to the aircraft and helicopters being flown in Afghanistan.
“This is the best job because we save the pilots and passengers lives by finding water in the oil finding cracks in the bodies of aircrafts too. Water destroys the engine in the aircraft. NDI makes sure the aircraft and helicopters are secure.” said Naqeebullah.
It is this sense of protection and service to others that brings Naqeebullah to work each day, he said, even when presented with other opportunities.
At one point Naqeebullah was promoted to work in ammunitions.
Though given a promotion, he decided that he wanted to continue his efforts in NDI, believing that while ammunitions kill people, NDI saves people; making it the best fit for him as a person and Airman.
“NDI is the best job in Afghanistan. I know the machines here because I helped setup this shop and I work on them every day.” said Naqeebullah.
And just as Naqeebullah was eager to stay with NDI, NDI team members were just as keen in keeping him.
“His work ethic is awesome. He excels and is a hard charger. The lesson plans that I write for the guys in NDI are usually taught by Naqeebullah, and he shows them how to work the right way. He has been with me since I got here in January—one of four—and I’m now up to 14 people. He retains the information very well, probably the best guy I have in the shop and I am very proud of him.” said Tech. Sgt. David Roach, the NDI tech lab advisor.
A good work ethic and the will to learn is something that has helped Naqeebullah for 21 years as a service member in the Afghan military, a tradition he upheld from both his father and grandfather. But it is the desire to help his countrymen and strengthen Afghanistan as a nation that truly guides him on a daily basis, he said.
“I joined because I wanted to help my family and my country. There has been 30 years of war, many years of destruction, and maybe I can help bring an end to all of that,” said Naqeebullah.
One important way he believes he can help is by supporting the building of the Afghan Air Force through the welcoming of many different tribes and women into the military ranks.
“Every Afghan has the right to a job in the military. Right now all of us, regardless of tribe, work together as brothers and this is the best way for us,” he said.