WASHIR DISTRICT, Afghanistan – Soldiers with the Afghan National Army hit a milestone toward their independence from NATO support by improving an outpost that had been overrun by insurgents.

ANA engineers with 4th Kandak, 2nd Brigade, 215th Corps, built up the defenses of Outpost Duznoz South, in Washir District, Helmand province, Aug. 1 - 3.

‘They sent the engineers out to create more obstacles,” said 1st Lt. Michael A. Loyd, 4th Kandak Advisor Team operations officer and engineering advisor. “They gave those guys a better chance to defend themselves against the enemy.”

The ANA planned and completed the engineering mission. Marines were present to observe and advise during the construction.

“The ANA did a good job,” said Loyd, 28, from Winston-Salem, N.C. “They were able to put the plan together and get the materials. They made the logistical preparations necessary to move from Delaram to Washir. Once they got there, they were able to put their plan to action. They got the mission accomplished.”

The Marines watched as their Afghan counterparts set up protective barriers, a dirt berm and new guard posts -- obstacles for protection atop the hill the outpost stands on.

“I was very impressed with the heavy equipment operators being able to operate their heavy equipment at such a steep incline of the mountain,” said Capt. William B. Kennedy, 4th Kandak advisor team officer-in-charge. “They had a high potential to roll one of their vehicles, but they didn’t.”

The ANA engineers proved themselves to the advisors. The Marines were very satisfied with the results of the mission, Loyd said.

“I think everyone should know that the ANA are very capable,” he said. “A lot of times people doubt their abilities, but they are capable.”

The Marines said watching the Afghans perform on their own is fulfilling.

“I really enjoy advising,” said Loyd. “Right now, the one thing that is really going to make their military successful is getting them to perform the functions they already know how to do at a more professional level.”

The advisors know their work is important for all Afghans, who will rely on the ANA to provide security once coalition forces leave.

“We are preparing them for when we leave,” said Kennedy, 28, from Houston.

“We’ve made it clear for them that they need to use solutions that they can use without us being here.”

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