The MEU takes Garmsir !

Marines continue operations in Southern HelmandMay 27, 2008

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan (MAY 27) – Since launching operations in the Garmsir District here Marines take advantage of the opportunity to interact with the Afghan population.

Marines routinely conduct patrols in villages in the areas they have secured. The Afghan citizens are quick to approach the Marines when they see them and are welcoming of their presence. They are also quick to point out insurgent acts of violence to include: damaging foot bridges in their village, occupying their houses without their permission, putting explosives around their fields, and stealing their food and possessions.

“The insurgents don’t have the means to fight their own war and so they steal and intimidate the Afghan citizens they would have believe they are there to help,” said Col Peter Petronzio, Commanding Officer, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, NATO-International Security Assistance Force.

The villages have clinics and schools but no doctors or teachers because of the threat to the lives of the educated. As a result of the insurgents’ treatment of the Afghan citizens, the villagers are forthcoming in providing Marines information about insurgent locations, activities and members.

“The Afghan citizens hold the insurgents responsible for the hardship they impose. In almost every conversation with Afghan citizens, when asked what they need they state, ‘security’. The only criticism the Marines have received is that they are ‘moving too slowly’ and they are wanted to ‘kill the Taliban,’” Petronzio said.

Since Marines have been in Garmsir, Afghan citizens have not only come forward with gifts of thanks and information, they have also brought their sick and injured. The Marines have treated children with rashes, sore throats, and fevers; an infant who was burned when boiling water spilled on him; a gentleman with a leg problem and two young boys wounded by insurgents in unrelated incidents according to their respective fathers.

Marines are here to secure routes through the district to enable the extension of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The 2,400-strong Marine unit is conducting operations in support of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force.