An Afghan National Army soldier helps a young Afghan boy try on a new pair of gloves. (U.S. Army photo)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (Jan. 27, 2008) — Afghan National Army’s 1st Company, 201st Kandak and Afghan National Police, advised by Coalition forces, conducted a security patrol in the Shahidi Hasas District of Oruzgan Province, Afghanistan, Jan. 21-24.

During the multi-day operation, Afghan National Security Forces visited the villages of Pasaw and Doane, conducted Shuras with village elders, and met with residents of the southern Afghan villages in the Sakar River Valley.

“This is one of many operations the ANA and ANP conducted in the district to bring peace to an area that was a former insurgent stronghold,” a Coalition soldier said.

Insurgents controlled the area driving families from their homes prior to the recent operations.  Afghan National Security Forces increased security operations in the area in December and January to remove insurgents from their safe havens and return the district to government control.  As a result, villagers and business are moving back into the area and more than 25 new shops have opened in the district’s bazaar.       

“The insurgents forced us from our home so they could fight from our village,” a village elder explained.  “We are happy that we can move back into our homes. The village is now a safe place for our families.”

Village elders welcomed friendly forces into their homes and conducted a Shura.  The elders expressed their gratitude for removing insurgents from their homes before the onset of a punishing winter during the meeting.

ANSF and Coalition soldiers also provided medical checkups for many of the residents and provided jackets, gloves and other winter clothing items for the more than 150 children.

“We are extremely grateful for the help you have given us,” one of the elders said.

Afghan National Police and Afghan National Army soldiers told the elders they will continue to provide security and conduct operations in the area throughout the winter.  They also assured villagers the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan is committed to their safety and to meeting the needs of all Afghan people.