Nathanael's blogosphere of photos

Shah Joy Villagers Make a Stand

2010-09-25T11:35:00.002+04:30

FORWARD OPERATING BASE VARNER, Afghanistan -- Members of Arbakai stand in formation after receiving their red armband during a ceremony at Forward Operating Base Varner, Shah Joy District, Zabul Province, Sept. 16, 2010. Arbakai, part of the commerce stability program in Shah Joy District, will operate security checkpoints to protect the Shah Joy bazaar. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

Shah Joy Villagers Make a Stand
by Senior Airman Nathanael Callon
Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul

SHAH JOY, Afghanistan – Twenty-six men answered the call to protect their village against insurgents in Shah Joy District, Zabul province, Sept 16.

The men have volunteered to participate in a program that trains and arms villagers, called Arbakai, or the commerce stability program. The villagers will partner with Afghan National Security Forces to safeguard the bazaar by operating security checkpoints at each entrance.

During a ceremony held at Forward Operating Base Varner, Shah Joy District Chief Abdul Qayum addressed the men, thanking them for taking the first step towards helping to stabilize the community.

"As you embark on your new roles, remember that you will serve your people and your country with honor and dignity," Qayum said.

Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul worked with district officials and Mohammed Ullah, the commander of Arbakai in Shah Joy, to start the project.

“This is the first of its kind here in Zabul Province,” said U.S. Army Capt. Maxwell Pappas, Shah Joy's district support leader for the PRT. "Understanding your surroundings is vital to counterinsurgency, and these men know their district better than anyone."

Some of Ullah's men have fought as part of the Mujahedeen against the Soviet Union in the 1980s and against the Taliban in the 1990s.

Mohammed Ullah seemed confident that his men can do the job.

"They are very capable and they are willing to lay down their life for the safety of their families," Ullah said, who himself was a member of the mujahedeen.

When the Taliban gained power in Kabul in 1996, many of the mujahedeen were forced to lay down their arms or to flee to northern provinces of Afghanistan to fight in the Northern Alliance under the command of ousted Defense Minister Ahmad Shah Massoud. This shift in power left southern provinces like Zabul vulnerable to negative insurgent influence.

"These men are dedicated to their families and tribes. They came to me, willing to fight against the opposition again," Ullah said about some of his veteran fighters.

The members of the Shah Joy Arbakai have a unique and powerful advantage that many of the Afghan National Security Forces lack.

"I am from Shah Joy; I know the people of Shah Joy; I know the needs of Shah Joy and my men are all the same," Ullah said. "This is our home."

Arbakai was traditionally used as a community security force that answered to tribal elders alone. In Shah Joy, the Arbakai is responsible to the Interior Ministry. Though the structure is different, the concept is the same.

When a person comes to Ullah to join Arbakai, two or three elders must come and account for the man's character before he can become a member.

"My men would serve in the ANSF, but they have a higher responsibility to themselves, their families and their tribes,” Ullah said. “It would take them from Shah Joy."

Arbakai enables these men to serve and defend their own villages and district. Each man goes through two months of training in order to receive a weapon and a red arm band, which denotes the men as members of Arbakai.

"The Afghan National Police and Afghan National Army come from all over Afghanistan. This is not their home, so they cannot know it inside and out," Ullah said.

Ullah hopes that more men will join the cause. After the local elders see that the bazaar is more secure, they will be more willing to stand up against the insurgency, Ullah added.

"We already have plans for another five checkpoints in Khajer Khel, a few kilometers from the bazaar area," Ullah said. "When they see that we are capable to protect the people, we will be able to expand our operations to every village."

Absence

2010-09-25T11:20:00.003+04:30

Well, it has been almost a month since I have posted anything. You can blame it on lack of internet and in the past week, laziness. I travelled to Shah Joy district immediately after stepping off the chopper from Mizan. Shah Joy is the largest district in Zabul Province and the Taliban use this area as their main route from Pakistan and into Kandahar Province.

Here are some photos from my trip.

FORWARD OPERATING BASE BULLARD, Afghanistan -- Shah Joy District Chief Abdul Qayum speaks to local elders during a shura near Forward Operating Base Bullard, Shah Joy District, Zabul Province, Sept. 2, 2010. Qayum spoke about the security in the area and the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections during the shura. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE BULLARD, Afghanistan -- A young Afghan girl listens to a story from a Romanian soldier during a shura near Forward Operating Base Bullard, Shah Joy District, Zabul Province, Sept. 5, 2010. Shah Joy District Chief Abdul Qayum spoke with local elders about the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE BULLARD, Afghanistan -- Two young Afghan brothers embrace each other as Shah Joy District Chief Abdul Qayum speaks to elders during a shura near Forward Operating Base Bullard, Shah Joy District, Zabul Province, Sept. 7, 2010. Qayum spoke about the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections during the shura. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE BULLARD, Afghanistan -- U.S. Soldiers assigned to 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, speak with children during a shura near Forward Operating Base Bullard, Shah Joy District, Zabul Province, Sept. 8, 2010. Shah Joy District Chief Abdul Qayum spoke with local elders to discuss the security in the district as well as the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections during the shura. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE BULLARD, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Pfc. Michael Conrad, a squad automatic weapon gunner for Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and native of Bloomsburg, Pa., listens to two Afghan elders during a shura at the Shah Joy District Chief Abdul Qayum invited local elders to the district center to discuss the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections and to celebrate the end of Ramadan. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE BULLARD, Afghanistan -- Shoes belonging to Afghan elders sit outside an election shura at the Shah Joy District Center, Shah Joy District, Zabul Province, Sept. 13, 2010. Qayum invited local elders to the district center to discuss the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections and to celebrate the end of Ramadan. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE BULLARD, Afghanistan -- Afghan elders listen to Shah Joy District Chief Abdul Qayum during an election shura at the Shah Joy District Center, Shah Joy District, Zabul Province, Sept. 13, 2010. Qayum invited local elders to the district center to discuss the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections and to celebrate the end of Ramadan. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE BULLARD, Afghanistan -- Young Afghan girls listen as Shah Joy District Chief Abdul Qayum speak to local elders during a shura near Forward Operating Base Bullard, Shah Joy District, Zabul Province, Sept. 15, 2010. Qayum spoke about the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections during the shura. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

Elections

2010-08-30T11:35:00.006+04:30

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- An Afghan National Police officer peaks in a window to listen to a shura in progress at the Mizan District Center, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 28, 2010. Mizan district officials invited local elders to the shura to discuss the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections and encourage residents to vote. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

Saturday we went to a shura at the Mizan District Center to hear about the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections. About 95% or these shuras are centered around the PRT, whether we want it to or not. This really annoys me, especially if we were going there just to listen and observe. Let me just say that I was pleasantly surprised. Although they asked the PRT to say a few words, the district officials actually took the initiative and led the entire shura by themselves! Now that's what I'm talking about!

A lot of elders came out for the shura, coming come even two valleys over. I am not sure if they were interested in the actual election or just wanted to figure out what the hell an election is. Talking to many of the locals on patrols makes me think the latter is probably more plausible. Many of the people I've talked to are either indifferent about the elections or didn't even know an election was coming up. Sometimes I wonder if they know there is a government in the province.

The shura went pretty smooth. Noor Mohammed, the district chief for Mizan, spoke about the elections and why it is important that they vote. The ANP chief also spoke to the crowd about security.

Some expressed their concern that the Taliban might try to harm them if they voted.

The ANA commander assured them that the Afghan National Security Forces, along with coalition forces, would do their best to keep the Taliban from harming their families.

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- Mizan District Chief Noor Mohammed speaks to local elders during a shura at the Mizan District Center, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 28, 2010. Mizan district officials invited local elders to the shura to discuss the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections and encourage residents to vote. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- A local Afghan elder listens as Mizan District Chief Noor Mohammed speaks during a shura at the Mizan District Center, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 28, 2010. Mizan district officials invited local elders to the shura to discuss the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections and encourage residents to vote. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

The government in Mizan is making many steps to legitimize itself in the eyes of the locals here, and the attendance mirrors it. Although there are still many Taliban strongholds in the area, the influence has to start somewhere, and that is exactly what they are doing.

Hunters

2010-08-28T23:19:00.005+04:30

The weather this past week has been pretty bad as far as dust goes. A dust storm rolled in and just stuck around. Visibility was limited to the COP, with the occasional break in the wall of dirt to show the outline of the ridges nearby. The visibility (or lack thereof) provided a decent amount of concealment for the Taliban to do their dirty work planting improvised explosive devices in the area.

So, doing what our boys do best, along with the ANA and ANP, we set out to ensure the area is secure and safe for the residents living in the area. Indirect warfare is such a difficult idea for me to get my head around. It is such a cowardly way to fight.

This mission we became IED hunters.

I'm sure you guys are getting sick of these landscape shots, but I just love them!

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- Soldiers assigned to 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and Afghan National Security Forces walk beside a village during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 26, 2010. Members of 3rd Platoon, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and Afghan National Security Forces patrolled the area to meet with local elders and ensure security in the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- A member of the Afghan National Police takes a break while his team meets with local villagers during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 26, 2010. Members of 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and Afghan National Security Forces patrolled the area to meet with local elders and ensure security in the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- Afghan children play in the streets as a combined dismounted patrol passes their village near y while his team meets with local villagers during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 26, 2010. Members of 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and Afghan National Security Forces patrolled the area to meet with local elders and ensure security in the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- Soldiers assigned to 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and Afghan National Police take a quick break during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 26, 2010. Members of 3rd Platoon, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and Afghan National Security Forces patrolled the area to meet with local elders and ensure security in the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Pfc. Robert Brattin, a medic assigned to 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and native of Jacksonville, Fla., climbs a ravine during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 26, 2010. Members of 3rd Platoon, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and Afghan National Security Forces patrolled the area to meet with local elders and ensure security in the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- Soldiers and a member of the Afghan National Police share a laugh after a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 26, 2010. Members of 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and Afghan National Security Forces patrolled the area to meet with local elders and ensure security in the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

I like this last photo a lot. We work with the ANA and ANP every mission. To see our guys and theirs sharing that kind of camaraderie is very encouraging in my eyes.

Hiking

2010-08-21T12:43:00.003+04:30

The terrain here at Combat Outpost Mizan is rough. Rough enough that MRAPs are not able to be used because there is a good probability that they would end up rolling down a ridge and being totalled. So these guys walk pretty much everywhere they go with the exception of a couple humvees that occasionally go out (they keep from using vehicles as much as possible because the IED threat in the area is extraordinary).

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- Soldiers assigned to 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, take a quick break during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 16, 2010. The patrol focused on speaking with the local population to assess their needs and surveying the security of the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

No vehicles means we do a lot of walking. A LOT. Up a hill, down a hill, up another hill. Rocky terrain makes sprained ankles a reality. I've missed my foot placement numerous times already. Luckily, I'm pretty good at recovering (knock on wood).

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Xavier Baker, a communications specialist assigned to Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and a native of Waycross, Ga., scans the horizon for insurgent activity during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 16, 2010. The patrol focused on speaking with the local population to assess their needs and surveying the security of the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army 1st Lt. Troy Peterson, right, platoon commander for 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, assists his radio operator, U.S. Army Pfc. Justin Cobbs, across a ravine during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 16, 2010. The patrol focused on speaking with the local population to assess their needs and surveying the security of the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

We try to get out as early as possible to keep from hiking this area in the heat of the day. By 9a.m., it is already getting pretty hot. Not to mention all the gear you have to carry. Our radio guys, Pfc. Cobbs, carries an extra 110 pounds of gear every mission. I'm sure you can imagine how hiking this area can be.

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- A U.S. Soldier assigned to 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, tries to catch his breath during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 19, 2010. Members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and 3rd Platoon spoke with the local population to assess their needs and inform them of the upcoming Afghanistan elections. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

The one thing I love about this part of the province is the landscapes. The ridges and the roads and paths snaking across the sand; it makes for a great view.

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan – U.S. and Afghan forces conduct a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 19, 2010. During the patrol, members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, spoke with the local population to assess their needs and inform them of the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Pfc. Sheldon Meats, 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and Midland, Texas native, provides security while his team rests during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 16, 2010. The patrol focused on speaking with the local population to assess their needs and surveying the security of the area. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

One thing I find interesting, and not a good interesting,that we are here building up the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, and the Taliban has its own working government, complete with district chief, not even five kilometers away. This blows my mind. Needless to say, there is a lot of activity in the area.

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Platoon, Fox Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, provide security during a meeting with local elders in a village near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul Province, Aug. 19, 2010. Members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and 3rd Platoon spoke with the local population to assess their needs and inform them of the upcoming provincial parliamentary elections. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

These photos are from my last two patrols with the guys, and girl, from COP Mizan. There are more on my flickr.

Combat Outpost Mizan

2010-08-17T11:12:00.002+04:30

Here are some photos from Combat Outpost Mizan that I have taken since I've been here. Things have been very slow since Ramadan started. Our interpreters cannot be out long on missions, since they fast from dawn till dusk. I wouldn't want to do anything if I was fasting either!

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Capt. Cory Petro, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul district support unit leader, fires his rifle using night vision optics at Combat Outpost Mizan, Zabul Province, Aug. 11, 2010. Airmen and Soldiers from the PRT regularly check their sights for accuracy. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Pfc. Joshua Murphy, rifleman for Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and New Brighton, Pa. native, measures a rooftop of a school near Combat Outpost Mizan, Zabul Province, Aug. 14, 2010. PRT Zabul is working to renovate the school as part of an ongoing effort to improve Mizan District. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

COMBAT OUTPOST MIZAN, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Sgt. Keith Millstine, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul rifleman and Pittsburgh, Pa. native, provides security while his team measures the dimensions of a school for renovation work near Combat Outpost Mizan, Zabul Province, Aug. 14, 2010. PRT Zabul is working to renovate the school as part of an ongoing effort to improve Mizan District. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

Arghandab

2010-08-17T10:52:00.003+04:30

Here are some of the photos I took while I was at Forward Operating Base Lane in Arghandab District.

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LANE, Afghanistan -- Arghandab District Police Chief Qadir Khan prepares to light a cigarette during a meeting with U.S. forces near Forward Operating Base Lane, Zabul Province, Aug. 4, 2010. Members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and Charlie Company, 478th Civil Affairs Battalion met with the police chief to discuss security issues in Arghandab District. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LANE, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Capt. Cory Petro, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul district support unit leader, takes notes while listening to Arghandab District Police Chief Qadir Khan during a meeting near Forward Operating Base Lane, Zabul Province, Aug. 4, 2010. Members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul and Charlie Company, 478th Civil Affairs Battalion met with the police chief to discuss security issues in Arghandab District. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LANE, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Cpl. Alberto Bhoge, Charlie Company, 478th Civil Affairs Battalion, laughs after crossing a river during a dismounted patrol near Forward Operating Base Lane, Zabul Province, Aug. 6, 2010. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LANE, Afghanistan -- Afghan children watch U.S. Soldiers and Airmen as they pass through their village during a dismounted patrol near Forward Operating Base Lane, Zabul Province, Aug. 6, 2010. U.S. forces assisted the local Afghan National Police in a humanitarian assistance visit to give shoes to children in Arghandab District. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LANE, Afghanistan -- U.S. Soldiers and Airmen wait for a road to be swept by a mine detector before continuing during a dismounted patrol near Forward Operating Base Lane, Zabul Province, Aug. 6, 2010. Members of 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Charlie Company, 478th Civil Affairs Battalion, and Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul patrolled the local area to ensure the security of residents in Arghandab District. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LANE, Afghanistan -- Members of the Afghan National Police pass out shoes to local children as part humanitarian assistance operations near Forward Operating Base Lane, Zabul Province, Aug. 6, 2010. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

There are more photos on my flickr. Just click on a photo to go to my page!

4th of July

2010-08-17T10:51:00.001+04:30

August 7, 2010

I missed the 4th of July this year. I mean, the day occurred, people celebrated, barbecues were held and fireworks were set off, but I had none of that. I was in Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan, and although they did have a barbecue, it was nothing like how the 4th should be.

Tonight made up for all of that.

Today was an off-day for us, so we made sure the vehicles had the proper fluid levels and our weapons were working correctly. Maintenance day pretty much. I went for a run around 4 p.m. and the clouds were looking quite ominous, but not quite to the point where buckets of rain came pouring down. I did my usual things: dinner, TV, etc. Capt. Petro and I were standing outside talking and watching the clouds when he pointed out that there was a photographer on the roof of one of the buildings in the SEAL compound. We talked about the landscape and what a nice view FOB Lane had. Right around that time the clouds decided to open up.

The rain was so cold.

Big drops began to hit all over the place. Before I ran inside, I decided to run around the side of the building to see what the photographer was taking pictures of. "Ahh that is why!!" I thought to myself. I ran back to the other side to tell Capt. Petro.

"Sir, I know why the photographer was taking pictures," I told him. "The sun is setting and the entire sky is orange!"

I went back to my room to grab my camera and then met him back in the front of the building. We sat out there and watched the rain and the sun set over the mountains.

I'm going to slow it down really quick to talk about the landscape here. Arghendab District really has breathtaking views. Every time I step out of my door I realize the beauty of this place time and time again. Hiking these ridges/hills/mountains (whatever you want to call them) has been the highlight of my trip so far. The landscape is truly beautiful. Okay, back to the story.

We were sitting there talking to some of the Rangers here when we hear a very loud "BOOM!"

"What was that?"

"Sounded like a mortar," someone replied.

All of a sudden one of the observation posts down the road starts lighting up the sky with tracer rounds from a machine gun, shooting at the top of a ridge about half a mile from us.

Then chimed in a second machine gun, this time coming from the FOB.

By this time, everyone is moving for their rooms to grab their gear. The warning siren begins to screech.

"Is this really happening?" I began to ask myself. Sure enough I suppose.

Capt. Petro got all of the guys together and told us to go to the SEAL compound for accountability. As we get to the entrance of the compound, a .50 caliber machine gun about 30 feet above us bursts off four or five rounds. It scared the crap out of me, and I think everyone I was with had the same reaction.

"That is the first time I have ever heard that thing go off," Capt. Petro said.

The next half hour entails us standing underneath a hardened shelter watching what must have been a dozen machine guns lighting up the side of the ridge with tracer rounds. The red streaks against the almost black sky made me want to kick myself in the head for not bringing my camera to record it. It was really an awesome sight. Tracers were going everywhere! And the .50 Cal only 20 yards from us was no joke. The guy up there must have gone through 1,000 rounds easily!

And then came the flares.

The Army shot up one at a time. It was a beautiful sight. A bright red streak would rocket into the air, break up into three or four burning streaks and slowly float back to the ground. And then came a green flare. Then another red. Then a purple (I think. Maybe blue? I forget). It reminded me of really lame fireworks. You know, the do-it-yourself kind, not the professional firework shows.

A couple of jets flew overhead. Ahh, the sound of freedom! I couldn't tell what they were, but they sounded like a one-engine jet. Maybe F-16s? They didn't drop bombs or anything, but I'm sure just the sound of the engines in the black of night is enough to deter any other attempts to attack the base.

After a while, the sounds of machine gun fire finally settled down. The only sound left was the distinct tone of rain hitting the tin roofs on the buildings around us and the occasional mortar being directed at our enemy.

We were released from our position and finally made our way back to our rooms.

And that was my belated, Afghan-version of the 4th of July.

The Funeral

2010-08-17T10:47:00.002+04:30

August 5, 2010

Note: These next two stories have no photos, but were from my time at Forward Operating Base Lane in Arghandab District, about 40 kilometers north of Qalat City.

Today we were invited to a memorial service for a fallen brother, an guard working for ASG here, who was killed by the Taliban a few days ago.

We got there just before the service started. An old man was praying aloud and I will never forget the faces of the comrades in arms - soldiers, civilians, special forces - all had come to pay their respects. U.S., Afghan, coalition, they all were there. The ASG guards who had worked closely with the man looked intently into space. I tried to imagine what they could be thinking. Maybe a memorable story they shared with the deceased? Maybe resent towards the Americans? I only knew that there was a deep sadness that pierced the heart of everyone who knew the man.

After the prayers were done, we had chai together. After two or three glasses of tea, we were invited to have a meal with them. They asked the Americans to come to be served first. They took us to a room where there were plates with rice, eggplant and goat meat presented before us. Also, there was a bottle of water, a Mirinda orange soda, and plastic cutlery. I saved my fork and spoon after the meal, since FOB Lane has a severe shortage of supplies. We are forced to reuse our plastic bowls and there is no silverware, so I jumped at the thought of not having to eat with my hands or tear a styrofoam cup to use as a spoon.

It is such an awkward and humbling experience to be served by the people who must be grieving the most.

My heart goes out to the family of this brave man who laid down his life trying to create a better life for his people.

TCP

2010-07-31T14:10:00.002+04:30

As a measure to stop the Taliban from smuggling goods through the city, we set up a traffic control point a couple of nights ago to help deter (and possibly detain) some of these guys. Here are some photos of our guys in action. I did a little bit of vehicle and people searching as well.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Spc. Neal Perry, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces grenadier, controls traffic on a road that passes through Qalat City at a traffic control point, Zabul Province, July 29, 2010. As a combined team, the PRT and the Afghan National Police inspected all vehicles entering and exiting the city for contraband. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Spc. Nicholas Nutting, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces grenadier, searches an Afghan man at a traffic control point outside Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 29, 2010. As a combined team, the PRT and the Afghan National Police inspected all vehicles entering and exiting the city for contraband. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

I love this photo, he looks so dejected:

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Patrick Neilson III, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces squad leader, takes a quick break from inspecting vehicles at a traffic control point outside Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 29, 2010. As a combined team, the PRT and the Afghan National Police inspected all vehicles entering and exiting the city for contraband. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

It started getting dark on us, so we set up our NVGs and made sure we had our IR chem lights activated as well. Can't be too careful!

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Spc. Nicholas Nutting, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces grenadier, secures a chemical light to his vest at a traffic control point outside Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 29, 2010. As a combined team, the PRT and the Afghan National Police inspected all vehicles entering and exiting the city for contraband. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Spc. Derrik Fiasco, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul automatic rifleman, provides overwatch for his team at a traffic control point outside Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 29, 2010. As a combined team, the PRT and the Afghan National Police inspected all vehicles entering and exiting the city for contraband. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul flag down a vehicle for inspection at a traffic control point outside Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 29, 2010. As a combined team, the PRT and the Afghan National Police inspected all vehicles entering and exiting the city for contraband. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

And that was our night in photo form. Sorry it is so short today, but I'm busy busy busy!

FOB Life

2010-07-30T20:16:00.002+04:30

Well, a couple more days have passed since I've written anything. This has been another slow week for me, as missions have been cancelled and other events have taken place. I'll show you guys a little bit about life on Forward Operating Base Smart:

This is my room, hardly big enough for two people co-inhabiting a space with all their gear and personal stuff. We make it work though, I suppose.

And this is one of our FOB puppies, Izzy. She walked into my room one day while I was busy doing something in there, sniffed around a little, and then plopped on the floor and instantly fell asleep. I think she knew the room was air conditioned so she took refuge right there on top of my laundry. It is still pretty warm here and I felt bad, so I let her take a little nap and I kept myself busy listening to music. All in all, I would say they are pretty spoiled pups. They mooch off every person that comes out of the dining facility with food.

The FOB is usually pretty quiet. It sits on the outside of Qalat City and has pretty good security. Occasionally a mortar round flies over the FOB, but luckily there have been no injuries or damage. Of course, this really isn't much of a stresser, since at Balad last year we would hear the sirens and explosions go off all the time. Some poor new taliban recruit's final exam, and he failed it. Good job on having horrible aim and hurting your own people though! ... Jackass.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Clarence Washington, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces squad leader, takes accountability after an indirect fire attack in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 27, 2010. There were no coalition forces casualties during the attack. Members of PRT Zabul regularly prepare and train for indirect and direct fire attacks to ensure security and accountability during real world incidents. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

No worries everybody, we're all doing good! :]

Presence

2010-07-24T22:28:00.010+04:30

Last night we went on a "presence patrol." I have also heard the unofficial "show of force patrol" term used as well. The second one is probably not politically correct. Either one you choose is basically a group of U.S. soldiers (or airmen and sailors... maybe the coasties too. Who knows...) walking around town and letting people know we are still here. Here is where the terms differ. The PP (presence patrol) reassures the innocent that we're looking for the bad guys. The SoF patrol is essentially telling the Taliban that we're on the government's side, so quit effing around or we'll kill you. Simple enough.

So we leave the FOB and start walking around town, just making sure there's nothing suspicious going on in the bazaar area and we make our way to the outside of the city. We walk through this little "neighborhood" of trash houses. When I say trash houses, I mean it. These little huts are made of whatever they can manage to get their hands on. There were goats and mangy dogs everywhere. All I could think is how I could never imagine living that way. Very sad.

One of the trash houses.

Just past the shantytown the terrain slopes up a little, so we were able to get a nice little overlook of the area.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Patrick Neilson III, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces squad leader, scans the horizon for activity as Cpl. Michael McGee and U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jimmy Sosa, PRT Zabul members, look on during a presence patrol through Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 23, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

After a short stop, we continued down the valley, across the highway and to the base of Alexander's Castle (google it! Supposedly Alexander the Great built the fortress. Qalat actually means fortress according to Wikipedia, how fitting.)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Sgt. James Wilson, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces team leader, walks down a hill during a presence patrol along the outskirts of Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 23, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

I kind of like how this one came out. Very eery!

It was getting dark by the time we made it to the base of the castle. After taking a few minutes to catch our breath and hydrate, we started our way back down and back into the city. This part of the story felt like it came right out of a movie.

Hmm, how should I explain this part...

By the time we entered the bazaar, the sun was long gone. The streets were dark and there were people everywhere. The only light came from inside some of the shops and the occasional flashlights that blinked on and off to get traffic to stop. It was very disorienting. Adrenaline was quickly starting to pump through my veins. I could feel my heart in my fingers. The combination of dark and the general unknown of what could be lying in the area made my senses prick up.

Then a voice from behind me hollered "Keep an eye on those rooftops."

I looked to my left and right. There was fighting-aged men lining the balconies on both sides of the street.

As we continued I would notice movement in upstairs rooms where the silhouettes would change position and the dim light would suddenly be covered up. What could be in those buildings? Could someone be running to grab a weapon and spray us from the darkness? Where would I go? What cover is available? A million questions were simultaneously running through my mind (thanks to combat training). Of course, you always hope for the best and expect the worst.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Georganne Hassell, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul information operations officer, walks down a street during a presence patrol in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 23, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

I think that photo kind of characterizes the blur of the moment.

We finally made it through the bazaar area and maneuvered our way through the side streets.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul adjust their night vision optics during a presence patrol in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 23, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

We stopped and searched a few people just to make sure they weren't carrying anything illegal. Our mission was relatively uneventful, but I guess that is a good thing, right? Besides the whole bazaar scene, everything seemed very natural. I have been on a few foot patrols since I've been here, so that was nothing new. Just the low-light condition was a very new experience.

Anyways, that's about all I've got for today. The photos weren't great, very grainy because of the low light and nothing that really struck me as a great photo. But that happens sometimes!

Motivation

2010-07-21T20:34:00.004+04:30

Today was just another day. Wake up early, get dressed, eat breakfast, jump in the trucks, take pictures, get back, upload pictures, sleep. I managed to throw a wrench in the machine today.

Last night while I was working out, I managed to pull something in my upper back. I don't know what I exactly did, but it hurts like crazy. I may have pinched a nerve or something. Not sure. Anyways, it hurt enough that I was unable to sleep the majority of the night, and when I woke up, I could barely get out of bed. The first thing I did was hobble to my shelf and pop a few 500mg tylenol. There was no way I was going to be able to go on a mission feeling like this!

I decided I was still going to try and go, so I got dressed, ate breakfast, brushed my teeth, and grab my gear. It wasn't until I was in the truck and driving out the back gate that the tylenol began to kick in a little. "Finally," I thought to myself. I was considering staying back and going to sick call, but I am glad I didn't. I think I manage to capture a few good photos from the day.

As I sit here in my room writing this, all I can think of is that this is probably how an old man feels. My back is killing me.

Anyways, here are the photos. I hope you like them.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Afghan children watch from their front door as members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul pass by during a visit to a village in Qalat District, Zabul Province, July 21, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- An village elder participates in a shura with members of the Zabul Provincial Government and Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul in a village in Qalat District, Zabul Province, July 21, 2010. A shura is a traditional meeting where tribal elders discuss major issues and make the best decisions for their tribe. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

I have a few problems with Afghanistan. My latest gripe is the lack of motivation. Every child expects candy, or a pen. They'll even ask for your camera! It doesn't stop with the children. The elders of the village we met with didn't want a well dug or anything like that. They just wanted money. It is like that everywhere. They do not want to earn anything. They expect a blank check from their government, from the foreigners, from whoever will give it to them. It is like welfare in the States times 1,000. I don't know if all of Afghanistan is this way (I'm assuming it is), but Zabul is this way. Very annoying.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Clarence Washington, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces squad leader, walks up a small ridge while providing security during a shura a village in Qalat District, Zabul Province, July 21, 2010. A shura is a traditional meeting where tribal elders discuss major issues and make the best decisions for their tribe. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- A young Afghan boy practices writing his name on his hand to show a U.S. soldier from Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul in a village in Qalat District, Zabul Province, July 21, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Patrick Neilson III, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces squad leader, stands on a wall to get a better view of the area while providing security during a shura in a village in Qalat District, Zabul Province, July 21, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

I wanted to show a little different variety of photos this time. It is so easy to get cool shots of the SecFor guys. There is nothing more cool than guys in camouflage, gear and decked out weapons. Blame it on Hollywood, video games or G.I. Joe from your childhood, but it still makes you think to yourself "sweet". At least it does for me.

Walking

2010-07-19T20:53:00.004+04:30

Today was yet another adventurous day. The mission: to go meet with elders in a village off Highway 1. The obstacles: steep hills, a stream, canal, more hills, sizzling sunshine (that is how AccuWeather.com described today, a mere 109F). The distance we travelled was probably about three miles, but it felt much farther than that. The cool thing about this little hike was the scenery.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Patrick Neilson III, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul squad leader, waits to move out during a dismounted patrol to meet with villagers in Zabul Province, July 19, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

I'll show a little bit of the terrain we covered.

The canal (nobody fell in. I was surprised!)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Sgt. Robert Crosier, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul team leader, crosses a canal as Spc. Timothy Davis, PRT Zabul rifleman, helps him across during a dismounted patrol to meet with villagers in Zabul Province, July 19, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

Walking.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul walk along a road during a dismounted patrol to meet with villagers and deliver pesticides to help their crops in Zabul Province, July 19, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

More walking and hills (our village is still nowhere to be found)

Finally, we made it. After a little bit of confusion (there is always a fair amount of it, I'm beginning to notice), we were able to get some of the elders together for a meeting.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul meet with villagers during a shura in Zabul Province, July 19, 2010. Shuras allow the government to hear the concerns of their people and decide a course of action to resolve those issues. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

Now this is where it starts to get interesting. The trek to get to the village pretty much wiped half of our team's water supply out. I packed my CamelBak, a Gatorade and another half liter water bottle, and I had already emptied my CamelBak and the Gatorade! And the shura hadn't even started.

Master Sgt. Frank, the leader of the shura today, spoke with the elders about various things. Mainly the need for a well near the village and proper usage of pesticides that we had backpacked in for their crops.

The meeting went on. And on. And on.

Calls came over the radio about troops whose water supplies were "black", or empty. It was ridiculously hot out. Even if we left right now, it was still a long walk out the same way we came.

A donkey that passed by.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Jesse Frank, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul military police specialist, speaks with two village elders during a shura in Zabul Province, July 19, 2010. Shuras allow the government to hear the concerns of their people and decide a course of action to resolve those issues. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

The meeting kept going.

We did our best to keep cool by sitting on the backside of walls and buildings to keep out of the sun. I was starting to feel the effects of it. I gave some of my water to a guy who had run out about an hour before. We needed to get out of there.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Cpl. Daniel Lehman, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul rifleman, provides security during a shura in a village in Zabul Province, July 19, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

We finally made our way back to where we were parked. Here's to more walking:

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul walk through a farm during a dismounted patrol in Zabul Province, July 19, 2010. The team met with village elders during a shura and were returning to their vehicles. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

It was definitely the most exhausting day I have had here. I spent the rest of the day alternating bottles of water and Gatorade to rehydrate myself and get some salt back in me. A couple of the guys actually went to the medics and got IVs. It was that bad. Hopefully we never get stuck out in the middle of the day like that again.

Oh yeah, and my face is a pretty pinkish-red color thanks to the sun!

The City

2010-07-19T19:50:00.005+04:30

Yesterday (Sunday, I believe... I lose track of the days), we went into Qalat City to check on some projects that the engineers oversee. We had three stops for the day: Bibi Khala Girls' School (I posted photos of it earlier in the blog), Zabul Provincial Hospital and a bridge that leads into town.

The Afghan National Police came along with us to help pull security on the way. The ANP is a very odd group of people. They drive around in their Ford Rangers with machine guns mounted on the rear and honk their horns and flash their lights all the time. Today they were on the ground with us though (although, their buddies drove by a couple times regardless).

It was a hot day. I think it ended up being around 112F, which is a little too warm to be going out in the middle of the day in my opinion. But there we were, 25 or so of us marching down the streets of Qalat City trying to get from point A to B.

We reached Bibi Khala and the guys set up security, along with a couple of ANPs here and there to yell at traffic.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- An Afghan National Police officer diverts traffic during a combined dismounted patrol with Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 18, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Sgt. Phillip Toward, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul gunner, secures a side street during a combined dismounted patrol with the Afghan National Police in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 18, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- An Afghan National Police officer talks to a group of people during a combined dismounted patrol with Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 18, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Spcs. Neal Perry and Jule Renner, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces members, watch as an Afghan National Police vehicle passes them during a combined dismounted patrol with the ANP in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 18, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

We had waited there for about an hour while the engineers looked at the school. The security forces were getting pretty impatient. The main road the the school sits on has no speed limit (like pretty much all of Afghanistan). This makes for some tense situations, since you don't know if that van in the distance is going to stop in time, or if they plan on using it as a weapon. Last time we came to the school, a little girl got ran over by a car while we were standing there. People here are so reckless here.

The engineers finally came out of the school and we made our way to the hospital.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Spc. Carl Hoppe, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul rifleman, walks along a road during a combined dismounted patrol with the Afghan National Police in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 18, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

The hospital was packed with people. I really didn't want to be there. We passed the gate to the FOB on the way and I really wanted to go in. Thanks to my great willpower (and the ridicule I would rather not take from the Army), I pressed on. It was lunch time. All I could really think about was what they were having in the dining facility. Probably something fried... It is always something fried.

There was a little entertainment in the hospital compound though. The guys found this huge pot plant in the corner, so they each took turns getting photos with it for fun. It helped everyone take their mind off of how much misery we were in with all our gear and the sun beating down on us.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- A young Afghan boy waits to be seen by medical personnel at the Zabul Provincial Hospital in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 18, 2010. Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

After another lengthy stop, we headed to the bridge.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Spc. Trevor Soltis, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul rifleman, provides security while engineers review a bridge project in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 18, 2010. PRT Zabul currently facilitates 28 projects that improve the quality of life for residents in the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

I don't think I uploaded any other photos from the bridge. It's okay though. The bridge is actually pretty cool. They hired a bunch of Afghan men to work on it, which pays better than what the Taliban would pay them for a day's wage. This program is called FIRUP, which seems like a great program to me. Anyways, Another lengthy stop here, then finally we made the trek home....

Oh, and it was Mexican food day at the dining facility. I know you were all wondering!

My poor boots

2010-07-15T21:04:00.002+04:30

They used to be dark green. If you look at the uppers, you can see the tongues. You see that dark green? Yep.

They get a lot of use. From wear-and-tear, crossing canals of sewer water, dirt, rocks and the elements, they have a slightly different color and texture now. They are still super comfortable, but they are starting to smell (probably from the sewer water and extended periods of intense boot wear). Body odor is not the most flattering of scents, so I go through a lot of foot powder (hint, if you're looking for something to send me in a care package, I can always use the blue bottle of Gold Bond foot powder).

There was a guy in training that had the same pair of boots. The seam on the outside of the boots started to rip in the same place, so he contacted Belleville and explained it and they are going to send us new pairs! I call that taking care of the troops, so Belleville just went up in status in my book! Thanks again for contacting them Micah!

They really are super comfortable boots. I don't which ones I like more; the Kiowas or the Converse moon boots. It's still a toss-up.

Anyways, since I haven't had a mission for a couple days I figured I'd share a little bit of my life to you. Also, I'm still working on getting a photo of myself. This is a start in that direction.

The Journalists

2010-07-14T17:57:00.002+04:30

Like I mentioned in the first post (if you read it, I know I wouldn't have!), I'm more about the photos, not so much the writing. Yes, I am a military photographer -- sometimes referred to as a photojournalist -- but that doesn't mean I'm good at writing. So if you see any typos or grammatical errors, just remember that.

Lt Hassell and Lt Heyse both have blogs that probably go into more detail about our job here and other deep, thoughtful, mind engaging text. If you would like to learn more, you can check their blogs at: The adventures of HassellHess and Becky Beyond Borders.

Welp. There ya have it. If you wanna fight about it, this guy's got my back:

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Sgt. James Wilson, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces team leader, secures the perimeter of a village during a dismounted patrol in Zabul Province July 13, 2010. Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

The Shura:

2010-07-14T17:39:00.000+04:30

July 13th was the first shura I was able to go to. After multiple attempts to get on a mission, I had finally succeeded. It was the perfect day: the sun was covered by dust, it was only moderately hot and I only had two cameras, three lenses, two weapons and my body armor to carry! Like I said, the perfect day.

We got to where we were going and had to climb down this hill, cross a stream, jump over a canal (I didn't quite make it; one foot touched the green water), march our way across a big open plain, through a tree farm and finally reach our little village.

The shura itself was pretty boring. Nothing I would want to sit through everyday. I'm a photographer; I get bored easily. Luckily I have a team of security forces (SecFor, they call themselves) all around me to take pictures of. These are pretty cool guys. So after snapping a couple shots of the shura, I got distracted by the Pennsylvania Guard. Most of the SecFor are from an infantry background (their job here is mostly what an MP would do: security) so they want to go out and kill people and kick in doors. I must have heard it five times while we were out there: "This guy looks suspicious, go ask Washington if I can kick his door in and search his house." Yep. Infantry. I've got a lot of respect for these guys. The average person probably wouldn't be able to do what they do and see what they see. Most of them will get home from here and be right back out a couple months doing what they love.

Here's a couple photos from the day (more on flickr!):

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Christopher Cohen, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul, closes the back door of his vehicle before a mission in Zabul Province July 13, 2010. PRT Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. Sergeant Cohen is deployed from Shaw Air Force Base, S.C. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Village leaders and members of Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul discuss the needs of the village during a shura in Zabul Province July 13, 2010. A shura is a traditional meeting where tribal elders discuss major issues and make the best decisions for their tribe. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- An Afghan man holds his son during a shura in Zabul Province July 13, 2010. A shura is a traditional meeting where tribal elders discuss major issues and make the best decisions for their tribe. Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul is continually working with local officials to establish a solid relationship between the government and the people. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Army Sgt. Phillip Toward, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul security forces gunner, secures the perimeter of a village during a dismounted patrol in Zabul Province July 13, 2010. Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul supports and facilitates the legitimacy of the Afghan national and local governments through regional reconstruction, security and stability of the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

The Governor's Compound

2010-07-14T17:22:00.001+04:30

I think I'm just supposed to say office, but compound sounds much more cool. Anyways, I got to see what the compound looked like and I was actually impressed. The outside had a garden and was very clean. The main conference room had air conditioning -- it didn't work, but it was still there. It's the thought that counts.

Anyways, There was some meeting going on, and the guys from the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment were there, rocking all the cool kid army gear, and there i was with no battle rattle or weapon. Nope - it was just me, my camera and my M9 (from now on I reserve the right to call my handgun "Nine").

So there I was snapping photos, getting all in everybody's business, and one of the guys asks me if I always run around with no protection. Well, of course not, there's ANP everywhere. Duh. It's whatever though, they can play how they'd like and I'll play how I like. Either way, they made for some cool pictures and I remained reasonably comfortable.

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Pvt. Thomas Peddicord, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment personnel security detachment team member, secures the perimeter of the governor's office during a meeting in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 12, 2010. Private Peddicord is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Army Spc. Matthew Yeatts, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment personnel security detachment team member, provides security during a provincial meeting at the governor's office in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 12, 2010. Specialist Yeatts is a native of Norfolk, Va. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Army Lt. Col. Omar Jones, Commander of 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, listens to a security briefing during a provincial meeting at the governor's office in Qalat, City, Zabul Province, July 12, 2010. The meeting included military representatives from Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

Schools, Gardens and Indoor Plumbing

2010-07-14T17:07:00.001+04:30

The next day, I went out with a couple of the guys from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. We went to Bibi Khala Girls' School in downtown Qalat City. The school is the biggest girls' school inthe province, providing education for approximately 1,500 Afghan girls.

The school had recently received a full scale renovation, to include a garden, a courtyard, working electricity, indoor plumbing and even a computer room!

Enough about that, here's to more photos!

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- A newly renovated classroom is ready to be filled by young Afghan girls at Bibi Khala Girls' School in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 9, 2010. The school recently received a $135,000 renovation, which included foundation work, installation of new windows and doors, interior and exterior paint, electricity and a garden. Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul, with the assistance from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, facilitates 28 projects that improve the quality of life for residents in the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon)(Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- A chalkboard displays the days of the week in English at Bibi Khala Girls' School in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 9, 2010. The school recently received a $135,000 renovation, which included foundation work, installation of new windows and doors, interior and exterior paint, electricity and a garden. Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul, with the assistance from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, facilitates 28 projects that improve the quality of life for residents in the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon)(Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- Young Afghan boys pose for the camera during a routine patrol by Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul's security forces in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 9, 2010. PRT Zabul conducts patrols in an effort to extend the authority of the Afghan government and stabilize the province. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon)(Released)

So, I guess I'll try to catch up....

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So, I'll start my story from July 6. My Lt and I left Kandahar Air Field the morning of July 6, 2010, to make our way to Forward Operating Base Smart, our new home for the next 5 or so months. We rode in a Chinook. "Neat-o!" you may be saying to yourself right now; I was definitely not thinking that at the time. The chopper rocked back and forth like a ship in a storm for the entire trip, not to mention the sound of the rotors whizzing above you. I'm not normally the person to get motion sickness, but with the sound and the rocking and the heat that morning, I was feeling it a little. Needless to say, we eventually made it to our destination.

After getting a tour of the "FOB" (I will be referring it as that from now on), I went to bed. I was exhausted. The Army cats in my dorm the night before were leaving bright and early as well. They had been there for over a month (and trust me, the smell of 100+ guys in one room with help of the shit pond that was next door, it smelled HORRIBLE).

Our first mission was a couple of days later. The mission? Go hang out with elementary school-aged Afghan girls and give them new head scarves. Humanitarian aid, that's a good thing right? I think so.

The guys in our little patrol had to stay outside of the school. Women only. Except me, and that's because we convinced them that the photos were to show the good things we were doing, or something like that. The girls were happy to get new scarves and they got to decorate them too. I wasn't really supposed to interact with the girls, due to the culture's rules about strange men or something like that. I was happy enough just clicking away on my camera that I had neglected since the beginning of April:

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Georganne Hassell, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul information operations officer, teaches Afghan girls how to recite the alphabet at the Zarghona Girls' School in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 8. Members of PRT Zabul visited the school and distributed new head scarves as part of an ongoing humanitarian assistance mission. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

QALAT CITY, Afghanistan -- U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Rebecca Heyse, Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul information operations officer, helps Afghan students decorate scarves at the Zarghona Girls' School in Qalat City, Zabul Province, July 8. Members of PRT Zabul distributed the scarves as part of an ongoing humanitarian assistance mission. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Nathanael Callon/Released)

There's more photos of this. Just click one of the pictures and it'll open up on Flickr.

Everything has a beginning

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... and this blog has one. Welcome to my blogger page. I don't know how much I will be on here, but hopefully enough to make you want to keep coming back! As of now I will be catching up on a backlog of photos that I have taken here in Zabul Province, Afghanistan so far. If you like photos, you'll hopefully like this blog. If you don't like photos or my blog, maybe you should try reading stuff from http://text.markcundy.net/Blog. His stuff seems... text-y. Enjoy!

-Nathanael