Operation Afghan Warrior continues

WASHIR, HELMAND PROVINCE, ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF, AFGHANISTAN

06.15.2011

Story by 1st Lt. Timothy Irish 

II Marine Expeditionary Force   

WASHIR, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan - Afghan forces now stand guard over every street in the Washir marketplace and man observations posts on hilltops surrounding the villages.

Operation Afghan Warrior, that began 6 June, is now in its final stages having encountered no direct resistance from insurgent forces.

Soldiers from the 1st Kandak, 2nd Brigade, 215th Corps Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police led the operation that contained minimal support from coalition forces. The coalition forces consisted of a U.S. Marine Route Clearance Platoon and several Explosive Ordnance Disposal assets and advisor support as well as other units from Regimental Combat Team 8.

A shura, or meeting, was held Sunday with Col. Eric Smith, commanding officer of Regimental Combat Team 8, the district governor of Washir, the district chief of police, Brig. Gen. Wasea, commanding officer of the 2/215 ANA, and the Kandak commander in charge of the operation.

The discussion centered on the way forward to improve Washir. It has been more than six years since there was a significant presence from coalition, Afghan national security forces or the government of Afghanistan.

Once the provinical governor of Helmand officially recognizes Washir as a government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan appointed government multiple funds for health clinics and government facilities will become available.

Until then, Wasea plans to work with the district governor to use recycled materials from old Afghan National Army bases to start improving government facilities in Washir.

Editor’s Note: The 2nd Brigade, 215th Corps is partnered with Regimental Combat Team 8.

• Date Taken: 06.15.2011
• Date Posted: 06.15.2011 12:03
• Story ID: 72120
• Location: WASHIR, HELMAND PROVINCE, ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF, AF