Basic Training

The other day I had the opportunity to watch nearly 2,000 soldiers swear into the Afghan National Army. It was a hot day, 95 degrees, and the soldiers had to wait for nearly three hours for the Afghan general to finally make it over. There should be a completely separate blog on what I think of that guy, but I won’t go there because I don’t have enough time to type it all out.

I was impressed to see all of the soldiers willing to make the sacrifice to fight for their country; it was very inspiring. From financial security for their families to patriotism, I’m sure each had their reasons for deciding to serve. Afghans aren’t that different from us, outside their religion, they want to have a productive life and to provide for their well being, so choosing to enlist was the same decision that many Americans make as well.

After the general finally arrived, and then babbled on for 35 minutes (note: commanders should know to keep it short), they finally reached the oath of enlistment – at least the Afghan equivalent anyway. Each soldier must place their hand on the Koran and swear allegiance to the country – this is a significant point in their transition into the military. It’s so significant that there is a team of sergeants and officers on hand to ensure that the soldiers actually place their hands onto the Koran and repeat the words.

Now I’m not 100% certain why some of them wouldn’t place their hand on the Koran, but some say it is because they are dishonest people with bad intentions. Knowing that there is a +/- 30% AWOL rate (essentially leaving before their service commitment is up) in the ANA, I think it is just because some of them will walk away if their family needs them or if they find a better opportunity. You have to remember that their way of life has revolved around self-preservation.

So, as the leaders walked around the table ensuring the soldiers did as instructed, they made immediate and seemingly harsh corrections to those that failed to comply. From forcing their hands on the Koran to ear twisting and blows to the back of the head, they made it evident that the oath they were taking was serious. Some soldiers looked as if they had just realized the commitment they were making with an almost hopeless look in their eyes while others belted out the oath with passion.

Despite the handful of those who had trouble complying with the instructions, the majority proudly made their way to the table for their chance to begin the new phase of their life in service to their country. During the ceremony, I was moved to see the different ethnicities coming together for the greater good of Afghanistan. It won’t be tomorrow, or even in the next 10 years in my opinion, that this country is completely self-sufficient, but seeing the determination in the eyes of the soldiers gives me hope that one day they will be.

Even with limited computer access and growing lines to use the computers, I plan to try and keep you updated on the events in just another day in my life.

What's your favorite food?

Afghan students study English at a school outside Mazar-e-Sharif.


RC North PAAT members video tape students for a video pen pal project between Afghan and American students.



One Afghan student is interviewed for the pen pal project in front of the school house.


An Afghan child's shoes tell the story of his trip back and forth to school down mud packed trails.

Master Sgt. DeRemer walks with Afghan students after filming the video pen pal project. They were eager to practice their English with American servicemembers.

After a productive trip to meet with the German Public Affairs office at a nearby base, we had an early start to our day as we headed out to film a video pen pal project with local school children. We took step one today of the Afghan National Army initiative to foster relations between Afghan and U.S. servicemembers’ children. Footage of the children in an English class, as well as, individual interviews will be packaged and sent to various American students around the world.

We were greeted in English by each of the students who were eager to share their newfound language with us. We watched and listened as they took turns reading sentences about telling time. One particular boy was very proud of his ability and spoke in a much louder voice when it was his turn to read.

After they finished their lesson, we stepped outside to film the individual interviews. One of the questions that we asked them was, “what is your favorite food?” I have to admit that up to the point of the loud talking young man, I felt like our interpreter was guiding their answers. However, with no coercion, the boy responded “meat.” My knee-jerk reaction was confusion – meat? Really?

Later, as I thought about his response, I realized that one; he was being genuinely honest with us. Two; he likes meat the most because like the things we like most, we don’t always get them when we want it - he liked meat because he didn’t get it on a regular basis.

His honesty reminded me of the reality people of Afghanistan face. It’s easy to get wrapped up in what I am doing here and the tasks that consume my time, but this short visit made me think about my being here. Providing for a better future in Afghanistan is our goal, and I hope in some way we can succeed – even if it only means that the boy’s family can provide meat for him more often.

Stay tuned for more adventures in just another day in my life.