My PSG flew out on leave last night. We have a lot of visitors - combat stress doing their usual run through our AO, physical therapy will be coming and the division psychiatrist......speaking of visitors the Chief of Staff of the Army is coming to one of our remote outposts around Xmas......should be presenting some valorous awards while he's there. Our medic's family who was KIA in november will receive a posthumous silver star. We put our other medics on that operation in for bronze stars w/"v" (valor). We have a group of amazing guys. It's both inspiring and humbling to be a part of this platoon.
Lt. Alex Pruden also wrote from Blessing:
" Whew...made it to Christmas! Honestly, it would be easy to forget about if it wasn't for all of the wonderful support and packages that you all have sent over. Thanks to the deluge of shortbread cookies, candy canes, and Christmas lights we received in the last few mail drops, it's even beginning to look a little bit like Christmas (at least inside our buildings...outside we opted to keep our camouflage netting). The weather is also getting colder...sort of. Lows of about 30 degrees at night give way to highs of 65 degrees during the day. Frankly, those of us from the Southwest don't mind a bit, although some of the guys are definitely missing the white Christmas.
A lot of events have occurred in the last month that I haven't had time to go into detail about. The enemy has continued fighting into the winter months, and we've seen a good share of the fighting here at FOB Blessing......Again, from all of us here at FOB Blessing, we hope you have a merry Christmas......Please keep these men and all of America's servicemembers deployed overseas in your thoughts and prayers during the rest of the season. And most importantly, celebrate and enjoy the holidays!"
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Giving
" Back home, I guess the holiday season is in full swing. Thanksgiving is over, as is Black Friday and "Cyber Monday" (whatever that is). Although I'm glad that I am missing out on the Christmas shopping spectacle, I as well as everyone here will certainly miss the times of celebration with friends and family. But Christmas is about giving, and thanks to the gracious and generous support of Lynn Clark and her family, we were able to embrace the Christmas spirit a little bit by getting to be Santa Claus.
Lynn sent several boxes of toys, which we handed out to about 30 local orphans. Donning Santa hats, we went outside the gate and had the kids line up and cycle through the line, where they could pick a toy of their choice. Despite the overwhelming popularity and name recognition of Jon Cena, surprisingly the hottest item was the toy microphone. I guess they've been piping in the re-runs of "Middle East Idol". Jon Cena statues and action figures took a close second, with the chalk and chalkboards finishing third.
We enjoyed giving back to the community in a tangible way. Because of the amount of fighting that we do, it can be easy to adopt a hardened attitude against the people here. But looking into the eyes of these kids, I saw the future of Afghanistan. Their words, deeds, attitudes, and actions will shape this country long after we're gone and forgotten. In reality, a simple act of gift-giving may be one of the most significant contributions that we've made here so far. And as an added bonus, seeing smiles on all those faces brings a little bit of Christmas cheer to our hearts.
Thanks again to Lynn Clark for her donation and generosity. Without here the above would not have been possible."
Friday, November 26, 2010
Thanksgiving
This part of Afghanistan is getting a bit chillier. in the distant, higher peaks we can see some snow. Nothing too crazy though - right now the weather is nice, not too hot, not too cold.
Thanksgiving was here at Blessing as well. The food was quite good - turkey (of course), prime rib, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, creamed green beans, corn on the cob, stuffing, and lots of pie and ice cream. They brought out the food for lunch and we had the majority of the medics all at one table. it was nice getting the platoon family together, seeing our guys come off missions and welcoming the new medics to the platoon.
Thanksgiving was here at Blessing as well. The food was quite good - turkey (of course), prime rib, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, creamed green beans, corn on the cob, stuffing, and lots of pie and ice cream. They brought out the food for lunch and we had the majority of the medics all at one table. it was nice getting the platoon family together, seeing our guys come off missions and welcoming the new medics to the platoon.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Memorial
Yesterday was the memorial ceremony for our recent KIAs - 6 total in one operation, 5 of which occured in the same firefight. The memorial was conducted at a smaller base that the soldiers lived at. For the spartan environment, it was very well conducted. It was good to gain some closure on our medic who was killed. We saw a bunch of our other medics from the other bases - a little mini reunion - but it is unfortunate that it took an incident like this to gather everyone. One of the NCOs (Daniel, you met him) and I flew to the base and on the flight over, I couldn't help but notice how beautiful the countryside is. The stunning terrain belies the violence implemented upon it. It is a strange, unfortunate duality of this country. It's crazy to think of how much we've accomplished during our year+ back at Campbell, and how much we've accomplished in our nearly 7 months here.
In FOB Blessing, Lt Alex Pruden also wrote about the cost of war " Just to give you all a quick update, 3rd Platoon and the "Above the Rest" Battalion have been very busy this month. As I've alluded to in the past few posts, we've stepped up our efforts to root out Taliban presence in the Pech and its tributaries...and security has greatly improved for the people of this area. Unfortunately, these victories have borne a price: on the last major operation, 6 soldiers were killed and many more wounded...It was a solemn reminder to all of us of the danger we face and the risks we take every day. Thank you all for your prayers and support, I'll bring you up to speed soon."
In FOB Blessing, Lt Alex Pruden also wrote about the cost of war " Just to give you all a quick update, 3rd Platoon and the "Above the Rest" Battalion have been very busy this month. As I've alluded to in the past few posts, we've stepped up our efforts to root out Taliban presence in the Pech and its tributaries...and security has greatly improved for the people of this area. Unfortunately, these victories have borne a price: on the last major operation, 6 soldiers were killed and many more wounded...It was a solemn reminder to all of us of the danger we face and the risks we take every day. Thank you all for your prayers and support, I'll bring you up to speed soon."
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Fighting intensifies
Indeed the fighting intensifies. The battalion was engaged in a 4-day battle in what was once one of our quietest valleys. It started as a company air assault, and within 24 hours one platoon became combat ineffective. three of the key leaders were wounded, as well as my medic attached to that platoon, who was killed. The article is at this link:
http://www.wtxl.com/content/topstories/story/Chihuahua-family-opens-up-about-their-loss/Mglrwyr-Mku5v6fk72KJqQ.cspx
After the first day, the brigade poured in asset after asset - two more companies, a ranger platoon, an Afghan commando unit and two special forces teams, and all the aircraft possible. all medics out there dealt with a mass casualty situation at one point or another.
Operaiton Bulldog Bite, now five days long, has resulted in the deaths of more than 50 enemy fighters and the discovery of two or three "large" weapons caches, but has cost six lives of 101st Airborne Division soldiers and others injured.
The operation is penetrating deep into the Pech River Valley and is involving several nighttime air assaults to root out enemy fighters from the remote mountain villages.
On another note, we've continued to get a lot of care packages, letters, and support from all of you. Again, we want to tell you that we greatly appreciate it. We have reached the halfway point in the tour, and many of us are looking forward to leave over the holidays, and our thoughts reach back to home, family, and friends. So getting a letter or a package does wonders for keeping spirits up.
http://www.wtxl.com/content/topstories/story/Chihuahua-family-opens-up-about-their-loss/Mglrwyr-Mku5v6fk72KJqQ.cspx
After the first day, the brigade poured in asset after asset - two more companies, a ranger platoon, an Afghan commando unit and two special forces teams, and all the aircraft possible. all medics out there dealt with a mass casualty situation at one point or another.
Operaiton Bulldog Bite, now five days long, has resulted in the deaths of more than 50 enemy fighters and the discovery of two or three "large" weapons caches, but has cost six lives of 101st Airborne Division soldiers and others injured.
The operation is penetrating deep into the Pech River Valley and is involving several nighttime air assaults to root out enemy fighters from the remote mountain villages.
On another note, we've continued to get a lot of care packages, letters, and support from all of you. Again, we want to tell you that we greatly appreciate it. We have reached the halfway point in the tour, and many of us are looking forward to leave over the holidays, and our thoughts reach back to home, family, and friends. So getting a letter or a package does wonders for keeping spirits up.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Challenges
The Pech Valley river is fed from glaciers and snow from the Hindu Kush mountain range to its north. The river rises in central Nuristan Province and proceeds south and southeasternly through the center of Kunar Province, joining the Kunar River at the provincial capital of Asadabad. It is considered one of the most dangerous places for NATO troops in Afghanistan.
Lately, it’s finally cooling off around the valley. Snow has appeared on several distant peaks...I have a feeling it’s a sign of things to come.
From FOB Blessing, Lt. Alex Pruden recently wrote:
"...Please keep PFC Luis Vasquez in your thoughts and prayers. PFC Vasquez was wounded last week during combat operations, and was evacuated first to Bagram, then to Landstuhl, and ultimately back to the U.S. Fortunately, his surgery was successful and he should recover. Also been meaning to send out thank yous to everyone who has supported us with a care package. I know a blanket "thank you" post on this blog is a sorry excuse for a real thank you note, but rest assured, they are coming. Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers...
Let me just start off by saying that this has been our busiest day so far. Prior to election day, the insurgents issued night letters and death threats to citizens, hoping to deter them from voting. Local Taliban commanders were reinforced with fighters from other provinces and districts. The Taliban shadow government threatened spectacular attacks against the various polling centers. The polls opened early, and we were out even earlier. In the Waygul Valley, we had one polling site. As in everything else we do, we worked jointly with our Afghan partners to provide security for it. The Afghan National Army and Police provided local security at the site itself. We roved throughout the area, maintaining a constant presence and attempting to provide a buffer between the enemy and the polling site...
Throughout the battalion, fighting was heavy. Our platoon alone was involved in three different firefights in two different areas. We encountered everything from RPG’s and machine guns to snipers and mortars. At one point during the second fight, the platoon was pinned down by heavy enemy fire, and three soldiers were wounded. After evacuating the casualties back to FOB Blessing, we took enough time to grab a mouthful of food and reload ammo and fuel before it was back out the gate and back into the fray... At the end of an exhausting day, our platoon (as well as our company and battalion) successfully completed our mission. Thanks to our efforts, all of the enemy activity was directed away from the polling centers.
Essentially every Afghan in our district who wanted to vote was able to do so. Over one thousand men and women traveled to the Waygul polling site and voted. People happily exclaimed that they were very happy with the security, that it was even better than during last year’s presidential elections. Although that was our busiest day yet, neither we nor the enemy has sat idle since then. The members of this platoon have proved themselves again and again in the face of the enemy, and will continue to do so until our job is done...
Bottom line: we’ve seen a decent share of challenges lately, and the men of the platoon have showed great courage in the face of them. We’ve learned some important lessons, and gained new respect for the enemy and the difficulties that the terrain of this valley presents....Recently, the enemy took the opportunity to remind us that we do indeed serve in one of the most dangerous places in Afghanistan..."
Lately, it’s finally cooling off around the valley. Snow has appeared on several distant peaks...I have a feeling it’s a sign of things to come.
From FOB Blessing, Lt. Alex Pruden recently wrote:
"...Please keep PFC Luis Vasquez in your thoughts and prayers. PFC Vasquez was wounded last week during combat operations, and was evacuated first to Bagram, then to Landstuhl, and ultimately back to the U.S. Fortunately, his surgery was successful and he should recover. Also been meaning to send out thank yous to everyone who has supported us with a care package. I know a blanket "thank you" post on this blog is a sorry excuse for a real thank you note, but rest assured, they are coming. Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers...
Let me just start off by saying that this has been our busiest day so far. Prior to election day, the insurgents issued night letters and death threats to citizens, hoping to deter them from voting. Local Taliban commanders were reinforced with fighters from other provinces and districts. The Taliban shadow government threatened spectacular attacks against the various polling centers. The polls opened early, and we were out even earlier. In the Waygul Valley, we had one polling site. As in everything else we do, we worked jointly with our Afghan partners to provide security for it. The Afghan National Army and Police provided local security at the site itself. We roved throughout the area, maintaining a constant presence and attempting to provide a buffer between the enemy and the polling site...
Throughout the battalion, fighting was heavy. Our platoon alone was involved in three different firefights in two different areas. We encountered everything from RPG’s and machine guns to snipers and mortars. At one point during the second fight, the platoon was pinned down by heavy enemy fire, and three soldiers were wounded. After evacuating the casualties back to FOB Blessing, we took enough time to grab a mouthful of food and reload ammo and fuel before it was back out the gate and back into the fray... At the end of an exhausting day, our platoon (as well as our company and battalion) successfully completed our mission. Thanks to our efforts, all of the enemy activity was directed away from the polling centers.
Essentially every Afghan in our district who wanted to vote was able to do so. Over one thousand men and women traveled to the Waygul polling site and voted. People happily exclaimed that they were very happy with the security, that it was even better than during last year’s presidential elections. Although that was our busiest day yet, neither we nor the enemy has sat idle since then. The members of this platoon have proved themselves again and again in the face of the enemy, and will continue to do so until our job is done...
Bottom line: we’ve seen a decent share of challenges lately, and the men of the platoon have showed great courage in the face of them. We’ve learned some important lessons, and gained new respect for the enemy and the difficulties that the terrain of this valley presents....Recently, the enemy took the opportunity to remind us that we do indeed serve in one of the most dangerous places in Afghanistan..."
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Kids
" Election day was made for a very kinetic day. All our OPs got hit at once, every US element got hit, shot at etc... 15,000 people turned out to vote (or so we were told) and none of the polling sites were attacked. WE were attacked, but none of the polling sites. I guess democracy was defended that day, albeit Afghanistan democracy.
Today was quite eventful, starting around 1500 this afternoon. We got a report of a small child playing up by our range who evidently picked up an unexploded grenade that detonated. We watched as he was carried down by the Afghan security guards, and they brought him to our aid station.
I was the first to receive him and at first, I thought he was dead. There was a huge crowd of local workers and security guards when the kid was offloaded, and I think everyone was in too much shock to do anything, because it took a good 3 seconds for anyone to move him from the back of the truck to a stretcher. So he was pretty badly injured. He'll lose a foot, an arm and perhaps the other hand. He made it alive out of here and last I checked he was still alive at the forward surgical team and Bagram accepted him.
It's sad that this is such a horrible place for kids to live in....to be accurrate, the kid was doing something he shouldn't have been doing. Kids will chase after convoys for spent brass - they can sell it. Kids get hurt all the time doing that, but this was likely the worst. From a medical perspective, this was probably the ultimate casualty for medics. We saw and treated everything you could possibly imagine. The medics did well though...but i was also too busy running around dealing with the medevac and the father, who looked pretty hopeless. He wanted to see his son while he was being treated, but it was a bit too bad for us to bring him in. Later on when we had him packaged up we let him in and explained everything that was going on.
On a more positive note, the ANA battalion commander came to the aid station and invited all the medics specifically to have dinner with him because "he was grateful that we've been helping his soldiers so much".....but the food was very well done. It was high dining Afghan National Army style."
Today was quite eventful, starting around 1500 this afternoon. We got a report of a small child playing up by our range who evidently picked up an unexploded grenade that detonated. We watched as he was carried down by the Afghan security guards, and they brought him to our aid station.
I was the first to receive him and at first, I thought he was dead. There was a huge crowd of local workers and security guards when the kid was offloaded, and I think everyone was in too much shock to do anything, because it took a good 3 seconds for anyone to move him from the back of the truck to a stretcher. So he was pretty badly injured. He'll lose a foot, an arm and perhaps the other hand. He made it alive out of here and last I checked he was still alive at the forward surgical team and Bagram accepted him.
It's sad that this is such a horrible place for kids to live in....to be accurrate, the kid was doing something he shouldn't have been doing. Kids will chase after convoys for spent brass - they can sell it. Kids get hurt all the time doing that, but this was likely the worst. From a medical perspective, this was probably the ultimate casualty for medics. We saw and treated everything you could possibly imagine. The medics did well though...but i was also too busy running around dealing with the medevac and the father, who looked pretty hopeless. He wanted to see his son while he was being treated, but it was a bit too bad for us to bring him in. Later on when we had him packaged up we let him in and explained everything that was going on.
On a more positive note, the ANA battalion commander came to the aid station and invited all the medics specifically to have dinner with him because "he was grateful that we've been helping his soldiers so much".....but the food was very well done. It was high dining Afghan National Army style."
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Snow
" This morning we were greeted with much cooler morning temps (less than 70 at 6 AM) and a dusting of snow on the distant mountains. By noon the snow had melted and temperatures were back to summerish highs.
Last night a cool front blew through and clouds built up overhead, a few spits of rain here and there."
Last night a cool front blew through and clouds built up overhead, a few spits of rain here and there."
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Lull
Messages received from FOB Blessing in the last couple days indicate that soldiers over there are all aware of the pastor's planned action in Gainesville, FL and are taking proactive measures for damage control.
On the recent battle of Omar, LT Alex Pruden wrote in the blog:
“...3rd Platoon came into the landing zone under fire, and proceeded to fight their way through the extremely difficult terrain of eight-foot high cornfields, ten foot terraces and a river (at nighttime). Fortunately, we had excellent support from our comrades in the sky, and the Apaches and Kiowa warriors rained hell down on insurgent positions in order to cover our assault.
Once we’d seized the village, the majority of the enemy resistance was broken, though we continued to take sporadic sniper fire throughout the day. Overall, the mission was clear success, with 19 insurgents confirmed killed. In addition, our platoon detained four wounded insurgent fighters. A major cache of rockets was also found and destroyed. No friendly casualties were sustained by the platoon, other than the platoon leader’s pride when he tumbled face first off of a farm terrace. But perhaps most impressively, the entire operation resulted in zero civilian casualties. This statistic is a testament that the soldiers of 3rd platoon not only know how to display courage and aggression, but also judgment and restraint...
Read about this in the press on the links below
http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2010/08/19_taliban_fightersphp
http://www.dvidshub.net/news/55448/afghan-coalition-forces-conduct-air-assault-kunar
There was one casualty of the battle that I do want to recognize: Private First Class Ethan Kirkwood of LaPlace, Louisiana. He was wounded when an 82mm mortar round landed on COP Michigan during the battle. Before being transferred to serve as a member of Lieutenant Colonel Ryan’s personal security detail a couple of months ago, PFC Kirkwood served in this platoon as a rifleman and grenadier. He was also selected among all the soldiers in the platoon to be the radio telephone operator. PFC Kirkwood is currently recovering from his wounds at Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital. His dedication, courage, and sacrifice are an inspiration to the men of this platoon and in keeping with the honorable tradition of the U.S. Army Soldier."
On the recent battle of Omar, LT Alex Pruden wrote in the blog:
“...3rd Platoon came into the landing zone under fire, and proceeded to fight their way through the extremely difficult terrain of eight-foot high cornfields, ten foot terraces and a river (at nighttime). Fortunately, we had excellent support from our comrades in the sky, and the Apaches and Kiowa warriors rained hell down on insurgent positions in order to cover our assault.
Once we’d seized the village, the majority of the enemy resistance was broken, though we continued to take sporadic sniper fire throughout the day. Overall, the mission was clear success, with 19 insurgents confirmed killed. In addition, our platoon detained four wounded insurgent fighters. A major cache of rockets was also found and destroyed. No friendly casualties were sustained by the platoon, other than the platoon leader’s pride when he tumbled face first off of a farm terrace. But perhaps most impressively, the entire operation resulted in zero civilian casualties. This statistic is a testament that the soldiers of 3rd platoon not only know how to display courage and aggression, but also judgment and restraint...
Read about this in the press on the links below
http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2010/08/19_taliban_fightersphp
http://www.dvidshub.net/news/55448/afghan-coalition-forces-conduct-air-assault-kunar
There was one casualty of the battle that I do want to recognize: Private First Class Ethan Kirkwood of LaPlace, Louisiana. He was wounded when an 82mm mortar round landed on COP Michigan during the battle. Before being transferred to serve as a member of Lieutenant Colonel Ryan’s personal security detail a couple of months ago, PFC Kirkwood served in this platoon as a rifleman and grenadier. He was also selected among all the soldiers in the platoon to be the radio telephone operator. PFC Kirkwood is currently recovering from his wounds at Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital. His dedication, courage, and sacrifice are an inspiration to the men of this platoon and in keeping with the honorable tradition of the U.S. Army Soldier."
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Battle Raging
LT Marcus Lai wrote from FOB Blessing:
"...We're in the midst of Ramadan and though it is a holy holiday, attacks haven't abated. Rather, it is quite the opposite. we sorta predict that this trend will continue and likely peak during elections. Such is life in the Pech Valley. but with these trends, we have the opportunity to identify when the "enemy" is most vulnerable and take the initiative...the medics are moving along just fine,though not without drama..."
LT Alex Pruden wrote from FOB Blessing:
" The Korengal Valley is one of the most dangerous places in Afghanistan. It's people, an insular ethnic group known as Korengalis, are famously isolationist and warlike, and the terrain is unforgivable to the extreme. U.S. outposts there from 2006-2010 suffered some of the highest casualty rates anywhere in the country, earning the valley the nickname "Valley of Death". In the end it was decided that a permanent presence there just wasn't worth the cost. Unfortunately, since the U.S. withdrawal earlier this year, the valley has become a base from which the insurgents routinely disrupt convoys along the Pech River Valley and conduct attacks against the FOB's and COP's there. COP Michigan, which sits at the mouth of the Korengal valley, has seen almost daily attacks and mounting casualties since our battalion has been here. Basically, it was time to "clean house". And that's exactly what we did.
Because of the importance of the mission and the risk involved, the platoon spent the entire day before preparing. Equipment was prepared, contingencies were planned for, and the soldiers rehearsed the tasks they were to perform. After a few hours of rest and final equipment checks, we loaded aircraft and embarked on the an operation which was to be "the most kinetic fight" in the province for the past 9 months.
I can't speak to what everyone was thinking, but I can tell you that we were all pretty focused at that moment. For me, I am not going to say I had a lot on my mind; in fact, I had very little on my mind. I wanted to get on the ground and get off the aircraft as soon as possible. Given the element of surprise and the fact that we had escort aircraft, I assumed that there wasn't a huge chance that we would take contact in the first moments. That assumption pretty much went out the window as we flew over our LZ and I see muzzle flashes flicker along the ridgelines. The Apaches are calling over the radio that they are taking fire from RPG's and our returning fire to cover our approach. About the same time I see a tracer round zip through the sky behind us, the crew chief turns around, grabs me on the shoulder, and yells above the noise of the aircraft: "WE'RE TAKING SMALL ARMS FIRE. DO YOU STILL WANT TO LAND?".."
"...We're in the midst of Ramadan and though it is a holy holiday, attacks haven't abated. Rather, it is quite the opposite. we sorta predict that this trend will continue and likely peak during elections. Such is life in the Pech Valley. but with these trends, we have the opportunity to identify when the "enemy" is most vulnerable and take the initiative...the medics are moving along just fine,though not without drama..."
LT Alex Pruden wrote from FOB Blessing:
" The Korengal Valley is one of the most dangerous places in Afghanistan. It's people, an insular ethnic group known as Korengalis, are famously isolationist and warlike, and the terrain is unforgivable to the extreme. U.S. outposts there from 2006-2010 suffered some of the highest casualty rates anywhere in the country, earning the valley the nickname "Valley of Death". In the end it was decided that a permanent presence there just wasn't worth the cost. Unfortunately, since the U.S. withdrawal earlier this year, the valley has become a base from which the insurgents routinely disrupt convoys along the Pech River Valley and conduct attacks against the FOB's and COP's there. COP Michigan, which sits at the mouth of the Korengal valley, has seen almost daily attacks and mounting casualties since our battalion has been here. Basically, it was time to "clean house". And that's exactly what we did.
Because of the importance of the mission and the risk involved, the platoon spent the entire day before preparing. Equipment was prepared, contingencies were planned for, and the soldiers rehearsed the tasks they were to perform. After a few hours of rest and final equipment checks, we loaded aircraft and embarked on the an operation which was to be "the most kinetic fight" in the province for the past 9 months.
I can't speak to what everyone was thinking, but I can tell you that we were all pretty focused at that moment. For me, I am not going to say I had a lot on my mind; in fact, I had very little on my mind. I wanted to get on the ground and get off the aircraft as soon as possible. Given the element of surprise and the fact that we had escort aircraft, I assumed that there wasn't a huge chance that we would take contact in the first moments. That assumption pretty much went out the window as we flew over our LZ and I see muzzle flashes flicker along the ridgelines. The Apaches are calling over the radio that they are taking fire from RPG's and our returning fire to cover our approach. About the same time I see a tracer round zip through the sky behind us, the crew chief turns around, grabs me on the shoulder, and yells above the noise of the aircraft: "WE'RE TAKING SMALL ARMS FIRE. DO YOU STILL WANT TO LAND?".."
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Attacks
On August 24th, 2010, LT Alex Pruden wrote from FOB Blessing, Afghanistan:
"Fighting season is in full swing. During the past week, FOB Blessing has been the target of several rocket attacks, and insurgents have been engaging U.S. forces throughout the Pech River Valley. Even our observation post, OP Avalanche, was recently attacked by insurgents with small arms and RPG's. Fortunately, no one in the platoon was hurt, and we've been able to continue operations, if a little more cautiously than before.
In addition, a much greater number of people from our valley have been calling about an increase in Taliban activity, including illegal checkpoints and kidnappings. We've stepped up our operations accordingly. On patrol, the Taliban radio chatter that we monitor seems to go on nonstop. It's a little more than disconcerting to hear the enemy talking about your movement and your position as they observe you from hidden locations, while trying to maneuver on you.
On that subject, I want to recognize the extraordinary contribution of our interpreters. We have three interpreters; two from Jalalabad and one from Kamdesh, Nuristan. In addition to being our ears and voices for the people, they also are indispensable when translating Taliban radio traffic. They always come with us on every patrol, some of which are extremely physically challenging. They do this with little to no advance notice, and they do it despite the fact that they neither drink nor eat during the day, when temperatures can climb to over 100 degrees. Although sometimes there is frustration that comes with dealing with the Afghan Army or Afghan Police, the work ethic and dedication of our interpreters reminds me that the people of this country are good people. Its an honor to fight beside them, and I hope they can look forward to a peaceful, prosperous country someday."
"Fighting season is in full swing. During the past week, FOB Blessing has been the target of several rocket attacks, and insurgents have been engaging U.S. forces throughout the Pech River Valley. Even our observation post, OP Avalanche, was recently attacked by insurgents with small arms and RPG's. Fortunately, no one in the platoon was hurt, and we've been able to continue operations, if a little more cautiously than before.
In addition, a much greater number of people from our valley have been calling about an increase in Taliban activity, including illegal checkpoints and kidnappings. We've stepped up our operations accordingly. On patrol, the Taliban radio chatter that we monitor seems to go on nonstop. It's a little more than disconcerting to hear the enemy talking about your movement and your position as they observe you from hidden locations, while trying to maneuver on you.
On that subject, I want to recognize the extraordinary contribution of our interpreters. We have three interpreters; two from Jalalabad and one from Kamdesh, Nuristan. In addition to being our ears and voices for the people, they also are indispensable when translating Taliban radio traffic. They always come with us on every patrol, some of which are extremely physically challenging. They do this with little to no advance notice, and they do it despite the fact that they neither drink nor eat during the day, when temperatures can climb to over 100 degrees. Although sometimes there is frustration that comes with dealing with the Afghan Army or Afghan Police, the work ethic and dedication of our interpreters reminds me that the people of this country are good people. Its an honor to fight beside them, and I hope they can look forward to a peaceful, prosperous country someday."
Monday, August 23, 2010
Two messages
A compiled excerpt of recent messages from Alex and Marcus in FOB Blessing, Afghanistan:
Things are crazy, but just fine. Things are somewhat picking up here. We got a local the other day claiming to have been caught in the crossfire between us and the taliban. He had very minor wounds but when we swabbed his hands and face, we picked up a lot of gunpowder residue, which indicates that he was firing at us. we turned him over to the ANP, but he was probably released that same day...The guys are doing well too.....I feel very lucky to have some very quality soldiers at all ranks. We are very busy taking care of patients, making aid station improvements and growing as medics....Other than that, we're making progress and seeing positives in many small ways, which in this environment you can never take for granted.
Its always gratifying when you get to take down some bad guys. Recently, we got to be part of an operation (which included some special operations units) that ended up netting several enemy detainees. These men were part of an RPG cell, responsible for numerous attacks against coalition forces...so hopefully their capture will make this valley a safer place for us in the short term, and more stable for Afghanistan in the long term.
Besides that bit of excitement, we've continued doing our normal patrols. One of the biggest enemies a deployed unit always fights is complacency. It becomes easy to take things like security for granted. "Getting lulled into a false sense of security" is how many people put it. Bottom line, its easy to lose the edge. Just as units that see constant combat become attrited, so do units that see sporadic combat. In fact, the sporadic nature of the fighting here makes it more dangerous, again, because it is easy to get complacent. So we fight this by changing up our patrols, doing things a little differently, trying to keep our minds fresh and the enemy off balance. Also, the squad leaders, platoon sergeant and I make sure that the platoon is as physically fit as possible, and we use these mountains to our advantage, fitness-wise. Staying physically strong keeps us mentally sharp.
In the meantime, we're thinking about all of you back home, and we hope that you are doing well. We just got another shipment of mail in, so I'll just go ahead and say a collective "Thank you" from all of us.
Things are crazy, but just fine. Things are somewhat picking up here. We got a local the other day claiming to have been caught in the crossfire between us and the taliban. He had very minor wounds but when we swabbed his hands and face, we picked up a lot of gunpowder residue, which indicates that he was firing at us. we turned him over to the ANP, but he was probably released that same day...The guys are doing well too.....I feel very lucky to have some very quality soldiers at all ranks. We are very busy taking care of patients, making aid station improvements and growing as medics....Other than that, we're making progress and seeing positives in many small ways, which in this environment you can never take for granted.
Its always gratifying when you get to take down some bad guys. Recently, we got to be part of an operation (which included some special operations units) that ended up netting several enemy detainees. These men were part of an RPG cell, responsible for numerous attacks against coalition forces...so hopefully their capture will make this valley a safer place for us in the short term, and more stable for Afghanistan in the long term.
Besides that bit of excitement, we've continued doing our normal patrols. One of the biggest enemies a deployed unit always fights is complacency. It becomes easy to take things like security for granted. "Getting lulled into a false sense of security" is how many people put it. Bottom line, its easy to lose the edge. Just as units that see constant combat become attrited, so do units that see sporadic combat. In fact, the sporadic nature of the fighting here makes it more dangerous, again, because it is easy to get complacent. So we fight this by changing up our patrols, doing things a little differently, trying to keep our minds fresh and the enemy off balance. Also, the squad leaders, platoon sergeant and I make sure that the platoon is as physically fit as possible, and we use these mountains to our advantage, fitness-wise. Staying physically strong keeps us mentally sharp.
In the meantime, we're thinking about all of you back home, and we hope that you are doing well. We just got another shipment of mail in, so I'll just go ahead and say a collective "Thank you" from all of us.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Ramadan
Here is a compilation of messages from LTs Alex Pruden, Marcus Lai and Veterinarian Tom Vermeersch in FOB Blessing, Afghanistan:
" Today is the eve of Ramadan, a religiously significant time for the people of the Pech and Waygul Valleys, as well as for the Islamic world as a whole. Ramadan is the nineth month of the Islamic calendar (a lunar-based calendar)...Typically, observing Muslims fast during daytime for the entire month, consuming neither food nor water. In addition to fasting, Muslims are expected to pray and read / recite the Q'uran. In fact, many mosques have a mullah recite 1/30 of the Q'uran every night for the entire month, so that the entire thing has been recited by the end. These practices are supposed to encourage closeness to God and to show their faith.
For us, Ramadan means that we have to take many extra considerations into account. Probably the most important of these is being sensitive to the fact that all the people are fasting, so it would be impolite to chow down on a Cliff bar in the middle of a village patrol. Also, because the Afghan soldiers practice fasting as well during this month, we have to accommodate them as well. The lack of food and water will certainly compromise their physical abilities somewhat.
That being said, this is a time that we as U.S. soldiers are extra vigilant. In Iraq, Ramadan marked a significant uptick in violence. In this area of Afghanistan, that has not been the case; however, we are taking precautionary measures just in case...For our loved ones back in the United States, I hope this post finds you well. Know that all of us here are thinking about you and look forward to coming home after proudly doing our part here."
" Here are two views of our room from opposite corners and fairly typical of most of the housing on FOB Blessing. Most of the buildings are brick and mortar with a cement floor and no windows; we have heating / airconditioning / ventilation units called chigos that provide for our comfort. Our building has about 6 rooms like this on the north side and 8 similar rooms on the south - some with bunk beds, others like this. Ours is the only civilian room in the complex, the rest being occupied by soldiers. Then there are two more buildings just like this next to ours. On the grand scheme of things in Afghanistan this is pretty good housing; discussions with others reveal tents, b- huts, and even hesko - houses are in use and are vastly inferior.
" Today is the eve of Ramadan, a religiously significant time for the people of the Pech and Waygul Valleys, as well as for the Islamic world as a whole. Ramadan is the nineth month of the Islamic calendar (a lunar-based calendar)...Typically, observing Muslims fast during daytime for the entire month, consuming neither food nor water. In addition to fasting, Muslims are expected to pray and read / recite the Q'uran. In fact, many mosques have a mullah recite 1/30 of the Q'uran every night for the entire month, so that the entire thing has been recited by the end. These practices are supposed to encourage closeness to God and to show their faith.
For us, Ramadan means that we have to take many extra considerations into account. Probably the most important of these is being sensitive to the fact that all the people are fasting, so it would be impolite to chow down on a Cliff bar in the middle of a village patrol. Also, because the Afghan soldiers practice fasting as well during this month, we have to accommodate them as well. The lack of food and water will certainly compromise their physical abilities somewhat.
That being said, this is a time that we as U.S. soldiers are extra vigilant. In Iraq, Ramadan marked a significant uptick in violence. In this area of Afghanistan, that has not been the case; however, we are taking precautionary measures just in case...For our loved ones back in the United States, I hope this post finds you well. Know that all of us here are thinking about you and look forward to coming home after proudly doing our part here."
" Here are two views of our room from opposite corners and fairly typical of most of the housing on FOB Blessing. Most of the buildings are brick and mortar with a cement floor and no windows; we have heating / airconditioning / ventilation units called chigos that provide for our comfort. Our building has about 6 rooms like this on the north side and 8 similar rooms on the south - some with bunk beds, others like this. Ours is the only civilian room in the complex, the rest being occupied by soldiers. Then there are two more buildings just like this next to ours. On the grand scheme of things in Afghanistan this is pretty good housing; discussions with others reveal tents, b- huts, and even hesko - houses are in use and are vastly inferior.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Three months
Today marks the three months since deployment. Thanks to everyone who has mailed a package to support the soldiers. The show of support from home is astounding, and definitely keeps everyone motivated. Your letters, comments, as well as emails, or even simple prayers and thoughts are also very much appreciated. It is our hope that the blog posting is providing all back home with a window from which to view the little slice of the conflict that the soldiers experience, and hopefully gain insight into and awareness of the successes they experience and the challenges they face. Recently, LT Pruden wrote:
" The FOB is surrounded by mountains, but the most dominating terrain feature is the mountain in whose shadow the FOB rests. Because of its location and the tactical advantage it would provide, we have long suspected there to be enemy fighting positions and caches there. We did an air assault to an adjacent ridge line in the middle of the night, and waited for daybreak before pushing to the top. The air up there (altitude of the LZ was about 6700 feet) was nice and cool, though it was thinner, a fact I noticed as my heart and breathing rate picked up on the walk. After about an hour of steady walking, we made it to the top (7750 feet).
Unfortunately, due to time limitations, we weren't able to stay up there long enough to find any caches. There was plenty of evidence of enemy movement, however, and we made certain to take down the grid locations of various trails and fighting positions for future observation or artillery strikes (on that note, there was a surprising amount of trees up there considering how often that hilltop is targeted by the 155's and 120's).
After we finished at the top, we began the long walk back to Blessing. We took no contact, but it was eventful in many other ways. Suffice it to say that the Afghan Army soldiers talk a big game about being more fit than the U.S. Army, but that claim was disproved yesterday. In any case, everyone was happy to be back at base when we finally arrived at around 2 in the afternoon. The 4500-foot descent spread over about a kilometer and a half was brutal, and everyone's knees, hips, and feet are pretty sore today. I'm extremely proud of all the men in the platoon: they accomplished a physical task that no other platoon in the company was able to accomplish, and they did it under a lot of weight and in extremely hot conditions. Its a testament to the NCO leadership in the platoon as well as individual discipline and preparation. We proved to the enemy and ourselves that we are willing and able to do what it takes to seize the high ground, and we will continue to do so in the year ahead."
" The FOB is surrounded by mountains, but the most dominating terrain feature is the mountain in whose shadow the FOB rests. Because of its location and the tactical advantage it would provide, we have long suspected there to be enemy fighting positions and caches there. We did an air assault to an adjacent ridge line in the middle of the night, and waited for daybreak before pushing to the top. The air up there (altitude of the LZ was about 6700 feet) was nice and cool, though it was thinner, a fact I noticed as my heart and breathing rate picked up on the walk. After about an hour of steady walking, we made it to the top (7750 feet).
Unfortunately, due to time limitations, we weren't able to stay up there long enough to find any caches. There was plenty of evidence of enemy movement, however, and we made certain to take down the grid locations of various trails and fighting positions for future observation or artillery strikes (on that note, there was a surprising amount of trees up there considering how often that hilltop is targeted by the 155's and 120's).
After we finished at the top, we began the long walk back to Blessing. We took no contact, but it was eventful in many other ways. Suffice it to say that the Afghan Army soldiers talk a big game about being more fit than the U.S. Army, but that claim was disproved yesterday. In any case, everyone was happy to be back at base when we finally arrived at around 2 in the afternoon. The 4500-foot descent spread over about a kilometer and a half was brutal, and everyone's knees, hips, and feet are pretty sore today. I'm extremely proud of all the men in the platoon: they accomplished a physical task that no other platoon in the company was able to accomplish, and they did it under a lot of weight and in extremely hot conditions. Its a testament to the NCO leadership in the platoon as well as individual discipline and preparation. We proved to the enemy and ourselves that we are willing and able to do what it takes to seize the high ground, and we will continue to do so in the year ahead."
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Blockade
Following is excerpted from messages received from 1LT Marcus Lai in FOB Blessing on 7/27/10:
" There's a giant boulder blocking the alternate route from our supply convoy.... An IED is blocking the main route. Its been raining here the past two days and the roads are collapsing to our east and west... we probably won't be getting anything anytime soon!
We had to evac a local dude today and convinced a hospital to take him....turns out he had tuberculosis... I think we've just ruined the entire AO for taking local nationals. We saved his life, if not made life more difficult for us..."
" There's a giant boulder blocking the alternate route from our supply convoy.... An IED is blocking the main route. Its been raining here the past two days and the roads are collapsing to our east and west... we probably won't be getting anything anytime soon!
We had to evac a local dude today and convinced a hospital to take him....turns out he had tuberculosis... I think we've just ruined the entire AO for taking local nationals. We saved his life, if not made life more difficult for us..."
Saturday, July 24, 2010
COIN 101
Following is excerpted from a post by 1LT Alex Pruden in FOB Blessing on 7/23/10:
"Although my platoon is tasked with providing security in the Waygul Valley, combat and security operations actually make up a relatively small amount of what we do. A successful counterinsurgency campaign is like a tripod: it stands upon good security, governance, and development. So although the security is very important (and in many ways is prerequisite to the other two), governance and development are also deserving of our time and resources. Unfortunately, just as the insurgents we face are clever and resourceful enemies, so are there major obstacles which must be surmounted in the other areas of governance and development as well.
Ironically, one of the biggest obstacles in the development of the Afghan government and the development of the country has been us. Or rather, I should say that we were an important part of the reconstruction process in the beginning, our involvement is netting diminishing returns over time. The onus of responsibility for government and development (and security as well) really needs to fall on the Afghan government. Our assistance, financial and otherwise, in this valley has I think historically been a crutch that gets leaned on, rather than the kick in the ass that it needs to be. Fortunately, we are putting a lot of emphasis on GiROA led initiatives. Putting the onus on the Afghan government is the only long-term solution for all parties involved.
There's no easy way to go about it without breaking a few hearts, however. The village elders expect coalition forces to help them out with cement and other projects, the Afghan security forces expect us to take the lead on planning and executing missions while they tag along, and the government often tries to pin its problems on us. Changing perceptions and expectations is a difficult task, but I have no doubt that the work we are doing towards that goal will pay dividends for the U.S. long after we leave this valley."
"Although my platoon is tasked with providing security in the Waygul Valley, combat and security operations actually make up a relatively small amount of what we do. A successful counterinsurgency campaign is like a tripod: it stands upon good security, governance, and development. So although the security is very important (and in many ways is prerequisite to the other two), governance and development are also deserving of our time and resources. Unfortunately, just as the insurgents we face are clever and resourceful enemies, so are there major obstacles which must be surmounted in the other areas of governance and development as well.
Ironically, one of the biggest obstacles in the development of the Afghan government and the development of the country has been us. Or rather, I should say that we were an important part of the reconstruction process in the beginning, our involvement is netting diminishing returns over time. The onus of responsibility for government and development (and security as well) really needs to fall on the Afghan government. Our assistance, financial and otherwise, in this valley has I think historically been a crutch that gets leaned on, rather than the kick in the ass that it needs to be. Fortunately, we are putting a lot of emphasis on GiROA led initiatives. Putting the onus on the Afghan government is the only long-term solution for all parties involved.
There's no easy way to go about it without breaking a few hearts, however. The village elders expect coalition forces to help them out with cement and other projects, the Afghan security forces expect us to take the lead on planning and executing missions while they tag along, and the government often tries to pin its problems on us. Changing perceptions and expectations is a difficult task, but I have no doubt that the work we are doing towards that goal will pay dividends for the U.S. long after we leave this valley."
Monday, July 19, 2010
Three cups of tea
Following is excerpted from posting by Army veterinarian Tom Vermeersch on 7/7/2010 in FOB Blessing:
" A watershed and tree planting project in an erodable area. Afghanistans watershed have been devastated by years of over harvesting trees and over grazing, leading to increased run off and flooding. Afghanistan has ambitious plans to re - develop their watersheds and irrigation infrastructure, a labor intense and worthy plan.
Orchard training, planting and growth - carried out by the district agriculture staff."
" A watershed and tree planting project in an erodable area. Afghanistans watershed have been devastated by years of over harvesting trees and over grazing, leading to increased run off and flooding. Afghanistan has ambitious plans to re - develop their watersheds and irrigation infrastructure, a labor intense and worthy plan.
Orchard training, planting and growth - carried out by the district agriculture staff."
Friday, July 16, 2010
Battle of Wanat Anniversary
Following is excerpted from a post by 1LT Alex Pruden on 7/13/10 in FOB Blessing:
" For today, I wanted to mark the 2nd anniversary of the Battle of Wanat, fought only a few kilometers to the north of where I stand now. The outcome of the battle had tactical and strategic implications for both sides, which still reverberate today. In addition, the courage and tenacity of the American soldiers who fought and died there will never be forgotten, and continue to inspire those of us who serve in the Waygul Valley today.
RIP
1st Lt. Jonathan P. Brostrom, 24, of Hawaii.
Sgt. Israel Garcia, 24, of Long Beach, Calif.
Cpl. Jonathan R. Ayers, 24, of Snellville, Ga.
Cpl. Jason M. Bogar, 25, of Seattle, Wash.
Cpl. Jason D. Hovater, 24, of Clinton, Tenn.
Cpl. Matthew B. Phillips, 27, of Jasper, Ga.
Cpl. Pruitt A. Rainey, 22, of Haw River, N.C.
Cpl. Gunnar W. Zwilling, 20, of Florissant, Mo.
Spc. Sergio S. Abad, 21, of Morganfield, Ky
Below is a short article from CNN which provides a synopsis of the battle.
http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/07/14/afghan.violence/index.html"
" For today, I wanted to mark the 2nd anniversary of the Battle of Wanat, fought only a few kilometers to the north of where I stand now. The outcome of the battle had tactical and strategic implications for both sides, which still reverberate today. In addition, the courage and tenacity of the American soldiers who fought and died there will never be forgotten, and continue to inspire those of us who serve in the Waygul Valley today.
RIP
1st Lt. Jonathan P. Brostrom, 24, of Hawaii.
Sgt. Israel Garcia, 24, of Long Beach, Calif.
Cpl. Jonathan R. Ayers, 24, of Snellville, Ga.
Cpl. Jason M. Bogar, 25, of Seattle, Wash.
Cpl. Jason D. Hovater, 24, of Clinton, Tenn.
Cpl. Matthew B. Phillips, 27, of Jasper, Ga.
Cpl. Pruitt A. Rainey, 22, of Haw River, N.C.
Cpl. Gunnar W. Zwilling, 20, of Florissant, Mo.
Spc. Sergio S. Abad, 21, of Morganfield, Ky
Below is a short article from CNN which provides a synopsis of the battle.
http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/07/14/afghan.violence/index.html"
Monday, July 12, 2010
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
In Full Swing
Oh sure, so the "fighting season" is in full swing. You know you're dealing w/hardcore fighters when they dedicate a season to it...
the rounds impacted the FOB shortly after 10am... I think. Two locals were brought in immediately, one with a skull fracture with exposed brain matter and the other with a large flesh wound on his lower right leg and an evisceration to the lower left quadrant of his abdomen. The head injury guy was an elderly man, was mentating well and was conscious/not in a whole lot of pain. The other was one of the shop keepers - I believe I purchased my cell phone from him - a well liked guy by the locals who work on base and some of the soldiers. He came in extremely pale. the challenge from yesterday was evac'ing the two. Since they were locals and not injured by us forces, we'd have to convince a US hospital to take them. our doc spoke to the docs at Jbad and Bagram and both facilities agreed to take them. This was a time consuming process and that I believe jeopordized both casualties' survival rates. We finally evac'd both. The head injury guys survived and the other didin't. Its tremendously unfortunate. There was probably some internal bleeding we oculdn't get to w/o surgery. It sucks. I was however extremely proud of the guys' performance. Things clicked and went quite smoothly.
Alex is right about the "twelve inches forward eleven inches back" sort of thing.
the rounds impacted the FOB shortly after 10am... I think. Two locals were brought in immediately, one with a skull fracture with exposed brain matter and the other with a large flesh wound on his lower right leg and an evisceration to the lower left quadrant of his abdomen. The head injury guy was an elderly man, was mentating well and was conscious/not in a whole lot of pain. The other was one of the shop keepers - I believe I purchased my cell phone from him - a well liked guy by the locals who work on base and some of the soldiers. He came in extremely pale. the challenge from yesterday was evac'ing the two. Since they were locals and not injured by us forces, we'd have to convince a US hospital to take them. our doc spoke to the docs at Jbad and Bagram and both facilities agreed to take them. This was a time consuming process and that I believe jeopordized both casualties' survival rates. We finally evac'd both. The head injury guys survived and the other didin't. Its tremendously unfortunate. There was probably some internal bleeding we oculdn't get to w/o surgery. It sucks. I was however extremely proud of the guys' performance. Things clicked and went quite smoothly.
Alex is right about the "twelve inches forward eleven inches back" sort of thing.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Fighting Season
Following is excerpted from today's posting by 1LT Alex Pruden in FOB Blessing:
" As we move into the summer fighting season, the AO has been pretty busy. Lots of activity on the part of the enemy...capped off today by yet another rocket / mortar attack on the FOB....That's what got me up and my body armor on. First priority is always accountability, and SFC K and I scrambled to all of our positions to see if anyone was hit (fortunately, everyone from my platoon was okay).
There were two KIA and two WIA among the Afghan civilians however. As usual, we rendered medical aid as best we could in our own Army aid station. It is so aggravating to all of us that most of the time the insurgent attacks do more damage to the civilian population than they do to us. And yet, we are often somehow blamed for these deaths by the population, who is by and large sympathetic to the cause of these same insurgents who kill them. We were having a shura (meeting) the other day to discuss the death of an Afghan civilian killed in a recent Taliban ambush. Although there were no local witnesses, the people automatically assumed that we were at fault (we were not, the man was killed in the first volley of fire in an ambush meant for us). One man even had the gall to claim that we were worse than the Russians (quick note on history here: when the Russians came to this valley, they made no attempt to talk to anyone or even to differentiate between the mujahideen and the civilian populace. In fact, they basically just carpet bombed everything and rolled tanks through, killing every living thing that was left). I'm not gonna lie, hearing these people insult me and my men like that really got my blood boiling.
However, as I calmed down I had to take a moment and remind myself that there are still many people in this valley who want to work with the government, and want a more prosperous future for this country. The district sub-governor made an outstanding speech extolling the people to cooperate with the government for the future of their children. Many elders also emphasized the importance of our presence here. They fully understand, as we do, that Americans certainly don't want to be here any longer than we have to be: which is why we place so much priority on trying to develop and empower our Afghan partners. They are the reason that we are fighting, to make this country stable in order to make our own country safer. Nonetheless, this particular area of Afghanistan is extremely insular: both culturally and socially; and it creates many challenges for us every day. The phrase "2 steps forward, 1 step back", may well me an understatement. Sometimes, I feel like we are moving more like 12 inches forward, 11 inches back. Through the dedication and hard work of all the soldiers here who are part of TF Bulldog, I'm confident that we can affect positive change in the valley regardless, even if it may be an inch at a time."
" As we move into the summer fighting season, the AO has been pretty busy. Lots of activity on the part of the enemy...capped off today by yet another rocket / mortar attack on the FOB....That's what got me up and my body armor on. First priority is always accountability, and SFC K and I scrambled to all of our positions to see if anyone was hit (fortunately, everyone from my platoon was okay).
There were two KIA and two WIA among the Afghan civilians however. As usual, we rendered medical aid as best we could in our own Army aid station. It is so aggravating to all of us that most of the time the insurgent attacks do more damage to the civilian population than they do to us. And yet, we are often somehow blamed for these deaths by the population, who is by and large sympathetic to the cause of these same insurgents who kill them. We were having a shura (meeting) the other day to discuss the death of an Afghan civilian killed in a recent Taliban ambush. Although there were no local witnesses, the people automatically assumed that we were at fault (we were not, the man was killed in the first volley of fire in an ambush meant for us). One man even had the gall to claim that we were worse than the Russians (quick note on history here: when the Russians came to this valley, they made no attempt to talk to anyone or even to differentiate between the mujahideen and the civilian populace. In fact, they basically just carpet bombed everything and rolled tanks through, killing every living thing that was left). I'm not gonna lie, hearing these people insult me and my men like that really got my blood boiling.
However, as I calmed down I had to take a moment and remind myself that there are still many people in this valley who want to work with the government, and want a more prosperous future for this country. The district sub-governor made an outstanding speech extolling the people to cooperate with the government for the future of their children. Many elders also emphasized the importance of our presence here. They fully understand, as we do, that Americans certainly don't want to be here any longer than we have to be: which is why we place so much priority on trying to develop and empower our Afghan partners. They are the reason that we are fighting, to make this country stable in order to make our own country safer. Nonetheless, this particular area of Afghanistan is extremely insular: both culturally and socially; and it creates many challenges for us every day. The phrase "2 steps forward, 1 step back", may well me an understatement. Sometimes, I feel like we are moving more like 12 inches forward, 11 inches back. Through the dedication and hard work of all the soldiers here who are part of TF Bulldog, I'm confident that we can affect positive change in the valley regardless, even if it may be an inch at a time."
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Thoughts and prayers for Captain Mott
The West Point Parents Club of Northern California (WPPCNC) has updated the condition of Cpt. Kevin Mott. Kevin and many of his soldiers sustained serious injuries recently in Afghanistan when his unit was attacked by insurgents.
Kevin is from 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell. His home is in Novato, CA.
" This morning we received a call from Germany to update us on Kevin. They performed a complete medical evaluation on him, including a neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, occupational therapist and others....
He has various cuts and abrasions on his face and chin that are being treated with antibiotic cream. He has fractured vertebrae L3, 4, and 5 and thoracic # 11. These are all in his lower back. They will not require surgery and he was put in a brace to help immobilize them. He has a closed fracture of his left fibula and tibia (lower leg) that they will treat with a splint (no cast)....They haven't made a decision on when he comes home but it sounds like he may fly to the US on Friday....Overall, I take this assessment of him as pretty encouraging. The back and leg seems like it will heal OK and he's not on meds that would indicate serious brain trauma. But we need to talk some more and watch how he does over the next few days.....
The nurse also said he has had visitors. The coaches of the Vikings, Eagles and Bengals happened to be visiting, said hello to Kevin and had their pictures taken with him.... Please continue to pray for his men who are largely still out in the field..."
Kevin is from 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell. His home is in Novato, CA.
" This morning we received a call from Germany to update us on Kevin. They performed a complete medical evaluation on him, including a neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, occupational therapist and others....
He has various cuts and abrasions on his face and chin that are being treated with antibiotic cream. He has fractured vertebrae L3, 4, and 5 and thoracic # 11. These are all in his lower back. They will not require surgery and he was put in a brace to help immobilize them. He has a closed fracture of his left fibula and tibia (lower leg) that they will treat with a splint (no cast)....They haven't made a decision on when he comes home but it sounds like he may fly to the US on Friday....Overall, I take this assessment of him as pretty encouraging. The back and leg seems like it will heal OK and he's not on meds that would indicate serious brain trauma. But we need to talk some more and watch how he does over the next few days.....
The nurse also said he has had visitors. The coaches of the Vikings, Eagles and Bengals happened to be visiting, said hello to Kevin and had their pictures taken with him.... Please continue to pray for his men who are largely still out in the field..."
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Mortar attacks
The following is excerpted from today's post by 1LT Alex Pruden in FOB Blessing:
" ...... As we wrap up that whole operation, we are looking forward to getting back into the AO. The enemy has not wasted the opportunity to reassert himself, as evidenced by recent mortar and grenade launcher attacks on our FOB. Though no one has been seriously injured, the attacks themselves serve as a reminder that despite the past few weeks of relatively non-kinetic ops, we still live and work in a very dangerous and kinetic place, fighting against a cunning and resourceful enemy.
So based on this, we've been getting back into some more enemy-focused operations. 3rd PLT recently hiked up one of the northern ridgelines in the Waygul valley to reconn possible ratlines used by Nuristani fighters to shell the FOB. Aside from being a hell of a climb (1500 meters as the bird flies, over 600 meters of climb), it was remarkable to see just how settled these upper mountain areas are. Upon cresting the hill, we observed at least 7 large houses (known as "bandas")....... They're currently used to shelter Nuristani fighters from the north to conduct operations in our AO. We also passed several fighting positions and observed several caves on the way up, which would provide great cover from indirect fire, which tends to be our TTP response after being attacked ourselves.
Anyways, getting into the swing of things...almost two months down. The first group of soldiers leave to go back to the States on R & R in a few days. Not gonna lie, its something we're all starting to look forward to."
" ...... As we wrap up that whole operation, we are looking forward to getting back into the AO. The enemy has not wasted the opportunity to reassert himself, as evidenced by recent mortar and grenade launcher attacks on our FOB. Though no one has been seriously injured, the attacks themselves serve as a reminder that despite the past few weeks of relatively non-kinetic ops, we still live and work in a very dangerous and kinetic place, fighting against a cunning and resourceful enemy.
So based on this, we've been getting back into some more enemy-focused operations. 3rd PLT recently hiked up one of the northern ridgelines in the Waygul valley to reconn possible ratlines used by Nuristani fighters to shell the FOB. Aside from being a hell of a climb (1500 meters as the bird flies, over 600 meters of climb), it was remarkable to see just how settled these upper mountain areas are. Upon cresting the hill, we observed at least 7 large houses (known as "bandas")....... They're currently used to shelter Nuristani fighters from the north to conduct operations in our AO. We also passed several fighting positions and observed several caves on the way up, which would provide great cover from indirect fire, which tends to be our TTP response after being attacked ourselves.
Anyways, getting into the swing of things...almost two months down. The first group of soldiers leave to go back to the States on R & R in a few days. Not gonna lie, its something we're all starting to look forward to."
Monday, June 21, 2010
"We know you fear the corn"
Following is excerpted from a post by 1LT Alex Pruden in Blessing on Friday, June 18, 2010:
" So the bad guys are getting a little restless again. They've been stepping up attacks as of late out to our east and west...but fortunately for now the FOB and surrounding area is relatively quiet. However, for their lack of direct action the enemy has more than made up for it in terms of propaganda operations. The quote from the title of this post is from a letter anonymously given to the district center. It alludes to historical use of the cornfields by the Taliban / AAF to cover their positions and conduct attacks much closer than they would normally be able to.
In response, the coalition forces and the government of Afghanistan have launched an effort to encourage alternative crop growth near the FOB and the roads....In our AO alone, there are over 500 fields adjacent to or within 300 meters of MSR Rhode Island (the primary E/W road). All in all, it sounds a lot easier than it is. The last 3 days have been spent walking through fields trying to figure out who has what field. Depending on which elder I am talking to, that always seems to change. Then there are the people who own the fields but don't actually live in the area. And some fields are owned by children (yes, really) whose fathers have died and passed it on to them. A man might have 1 field here, another 2 over there, and oh by the way that's his brother's field right there (are you sure?). It's a nightmare, but we're wading through it as best we can."
" So the bad guys are getting a little restless again. They've been stepping up attacks as of late out to our east and west...but fortunately for now the FOB and surrounding area is relatively quiet. However, for their lack of direct action the enemy has more than made up for it in terms of propaganda operations. The quote from the title of this post is from a letter anonymously given to the district center. It alludes to historical use of the cornfields by the Taliban / AAF to cover their positions and conduct attacks much closer than they would normally be able to.
In response, the coalition forces and the government of Afghanistan have launched an effort to encourage alternative crop growth near the FOB and the roads....In our AO alone, there are over 500 fields adjacent to or within 300 meters of MSR Rhode Island (the primary E/W road). All in all, it sounds a lot easier than it is. The last 3 days have been spent walking through fields trying to figure out who has what field. Depending on which elder I am talking to, that always seems to change. Then there are the people who own the fields but don't actually live in the area. And some fields are owned by children (yes, really) whose fathers have died and passed it on to them. A man might have 1 field here, another 2 over there, and oh by the way that's his brother's field right there (are you sure?). It's a nightmare, but we're wading through it as best we can."
Sunday, June 13, 2010
The Pech and Waygul Valleys
We've seen ailments due to poor hygiene standards or a complete lack thereof. We've seen traumatic injuries to children because, that's just what parents are accustomed to doing to their kids.
Consequently, we've found that treating the innocent is harder than it sounds. We feed into the dependence on Western medicine everytime we accept a local patient who refuses to or simply "can't afford to" see a local clinic.
All barriers and frustrations aside, the Soldiers are doing great. We do love hearing from home.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Half way
The following is an excerpt from a posting by Army veterinarian Tom Vermeersch in FOB Blessing on Friday 6/11/10:
" The 4th of June marked the halfway point in my assignment to Afghanistan. I feel like I should say something profound, so I'll quote Confucius:
If you want to plan ahead for one year, plant rice;
if you want to plan ahead for ten years, plant trees;
if you want to plan ahead for 100 year, educate the children.
Thanks to everyone who has provided support through the marvelous means of electronic communications; your messages and jokes and facebook comments are real day brightners!
Nothing escapes the Afghans' desire to "jingle" - including their tractors. Altho its hard to see, here's a picture of one that has been decorated with fringes, wrappings, etc."
" The 4th of June marked the halfway point in my assignment to Afghanistan. I feel like I should say something profound, so I'll quote Confucius:
If you want to plan ahead for one year, plant rice;
if you want to plan ahead for ten years, plant trees;
if you want to plan ahead for 100 year, educate the children.
Thanks to everyone who has provided support through the marvelous means of electronic communications; your messages and jokes and facebook comments are real day brightners!
Nothing escapes the Afghans' desire to "jingle" - including their tractors. Altho its hard to see, here's a picture of one that has been decorated with fringes, wrappings, etc."
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
One month
The following is excerpted from yesterday's posting by 1LT Alex Pruden in Blessing:
"Today marks the 1 month mark of our (hopefully) 12 month tour in Afghanistan. Its been a pretty long month, to say the least. But we've finally settled into somewhat of a routine, and are starting to get used to the terrain and the other unique demands of Afghanistan.
I would say that the hardest part of this month has been understanding the culture of the people here, and working within that culture to get things done. Many of the patrols we go on involve me as the platoon leader meeting with one of the village elders to discuss security and other issues, and my negotiation skills have never been tested like this before. Most of the time, its frustrating, like talking about security issues (Me: how is the security here? Elder: the security is good? Me: then why do we take fire from the ridgeline above your village? Elder: We are afraid to go outside our houses because the Taliban will kill us Me: So the security is not good here? Elder: No the security is good here.). Other times though, its fairly enjoyable to sit down and talk to people about strangely familiar things. For example, the Afghan people love WWF wrestling. I have no idea why, but if John Cena ever came here there would probably be a riot. I also enjoy describing a "turducken" whenever I have a discussion about food. The reaction on their faces is priceless. Its all about the little things.
Thank you everyone for all of the memorial day wishes...it is nice to hear the support. We just started getting packages here (the mail finally caught up) and those have been much appreciated as well.
See you all in 11 months."
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Helping the Afghans, May, 2010
Things are definitely complicated here. Soliders are all asked to do a variety of operations other than war. It is confusing and overwhelming all the same. The Afghan people are simply so poor and so conservative that conditions are not ripe to make any long term changes (at least this appears to be so on the surface).
A round landed less than 10m away from the soldiers' huts last week - it actually hit the chapel - and tore right through the plywood roof.
This week this baby girl (14 months) who came in with severe burns on her left arm - she burned her skin off from the elbow down. Her father informed us that her brother pushed her into some hot tea. The culture here is known to discipline their children by dipping them into boiling water. Fortunately the field surgeon who in real life in U.S. is a neurologist believes she'll fully recover. Most of the other casualties we're seeing are followups to the treatment we've been providing them from their initial injury.
A round landed less than 10m away from the soldiers' huts last week - it actually hit the chapel - and tore right through the plywood roof.
This week this baby girl (14 months) who came in with severe burns on her left arm - she burned her skin off from the elbow down. Her father informed us that her brother pushed her into some hot tea. The culture here is known to discipline their children by dipping them into boiling water. Fortunately the field surgeon who in real life in U.S. is a neurologist believes she'll fully recover. Most of the other casualties we're seeing are followups to the treatment we've been providing them from their initial injury.
Arrivals, May, 2010
First package arrived on 5/21/2010, taking about ten days. The conditions of the contents are good. nothing was spoiled, spilled or melted.
On May 30, 2010, it is great to receive the second package from home and the items from Natural Comfort!
On May 30, 2010, it is great to receive the second package from home and the items from Natural Comfort!
Settling Down, May, 2010
The picture was taken from FOB Blessing by 1LT Alex Pruden in his Blog.
FOB Blessing base is very complex and castle-ie. There is a healthy combination of hard stand (concrete, reinforced... can generally be trusted to withstand a mortar round) and plywood B-huts that the soldiers built (far less protected and might as well be a deck of cards). The only thing paved here are the LZs (landing zones). Everything else is dirt, gravel and junk.
The base has a compact DFAC (dining facility) open 24/7 that serves mostly heavy, starcy, meaty foods. sort of ricy gooieness), mixed vegetables and green beans (all presumably cooked in some animal broth). The regular staples are sandwich meats and breads, chicken tenders and fries. There's ice cream served by a local worker, and ice cream bars in a separate freezer.
The logistical miracle it took to bring all the stuff from the manufacturer, presumably through several countries with sub-standard infrastructure, to a theater-level base and finally to a small, remote base on the afpak border is very impressive indeed.
One night the interpreter Burhan brought the soliders kabobs from the local bazaar for dinner and the soldiers provided drinks and the Ciprofloxacin, for good reasons.
Handover, May, 2010
The platoon was busy doing inventories of all the theater-provided equipment (TPE) and was impressed with the setup by the outgoing platoon.
It is a very "interesting" aid station. The building the aid station is in was Russian built when they owned this base. For it's small size its capability is rather impressive. Inside the aid station there are two treatment stations, a small lab, a lounge, a command post area, and several storage areas.
Soldiers are temparily living in a separate hut within running distance of the aid station. The huts are made out of plywood and only recently have been "hardened" with concrete barriers around the sides for protection. The hut is partitioned into individual rooms so each guy has his own space. Some rooms have makeshift furniture build while others don't have anything yet.
It is a very "interesting" aid station. The building the aid station is in was Russian built when they owned this base. For it's small size its capability is rather impressive. Inside the aid station there are two treatment stations, a small lab, a lounge, a command post area, and several storage areas.
Soldiers are temparily living in a separate hut within running distance of the aid station. The huts are made out of plywood and only recently have been "hardened" with concrete barriers around the sides for protection. The hut is partitioned into individual rooms so each guy has his own space. Some rooms have makeshift furniture build while others don't have anything yet.
Deployment, May, 2010
The first contingent force of Medical Services Platoon of 1-327th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division departed from the sprawling Army base at Fort Campbell in the early morning hours on Saturday 5/1/2010 starting their long journey to FOB Blessing in Afghanistan.
The troops flew through Portugal and Romania before arriving at Manas Air Force Base, Kyrgyztan. They left from Manas Air Force Base to Bagram AFB, Afghanistan. They then flew by C-130 to Jalalabad Airfield, FOB Fenty waiting to fly to their final destination FOB Blessing.
In the middle of the night, the troops caught a flight of Chinook helicopters out to FOB Blessing.
The first email from FOB Blessing was dated 5/11/2010.
The troops flew through Portugal and Romania before arriving at Manas Air Force Base, Kyrgyztan. They left from Manas Air Force Base to Bagram AFB, Afghanistan. They then flew by C-130 to Jalalabad Airfield, FOB Fenty waiting to fly to their final destination FOB Blessing.
In the middle of the night, the troops caught a flight of Chinook helicopters out to FOB Blessing.
The first email from FOB Blessing was dated 5/11/2010.
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