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News From Afghanistan

By Lt Col P

Two items of interest on the very hot campaign in Afghanistan. The Torch has a GREAT round-up on a smashing success by the coalition, including a good bloodying of the Taliban, a well-crafted hoodwinking, and a real step forward for the government and people of Afghanistan.

British commanders estimate that more than 200 Taliban were killed as they tried to prevent the convoy of 100 vehicles from getting the machinery to Kajaki hydroelectric dam where it will provide a significant increase in energy for up to two million Afghans.
The operation has been described as the biggest of its kind since the Second World War.

For the last five days the force has fought through the heart of Taliban territory to push through the 220 tonne turbine and other equipment that included a 90 tonne crane to lift it into place.

With a third turbine fixed at Kajaki it will mean that the extra electricity could double the irrigation output allowing farmers to plant two crops of wheat a year. With a dramatic rise in world wheat prices this could crucially mean that it becomes more profitable than producing opium which would deprive the Taliban of a major source of revenue.

Escorted by attack helicopters, armoured vehicles and men of the Parachute Regiment, the trucks trundled into Kajaki.

For the first 50 miles of its journey from the southern city of Kandahar the convoy was protected by American and Canadian troops [emphasis added]. But for the second 50 mile leg through Taliban strongholds more than 3,000 British troops were needed to fight off the insurgents.

Go to the link, and follow their links to the various articles. Priceless stuff.

The other item is from the Baltimore Sun. Reporter David Wood has been keeping the homefires burning for 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, alone and unafraid, with many of its far-flung units in a vicious daily fight. I like Dave Wood; I met him in 92 when he embedded with the 24th MEU SOC for our work-ups and subsequent deployment to Somalia. He's a good guy, a good reporter, and a straight shooter. You might not like everything he says, but the man has integrity and a real love for the boys in uniform. Bookmark that site.

September 3, 2008 04:18 PM Afghanistan ~ Supporting the Troops