(Blog Post) Holding an election here against the wishes of our numerous enemies will certainly be interesting. Not only are we sure to see more attacks, but we’re also sure to have less support in the form of air since those air assets are likely to be needed everywhere else as well. Full Story »
Posted by Kaizar Campwala - via Worldfocus
Enlightening story told in the first person by a Marine -- one of many tasked with helping the national army secure the country for the election tomorrow.
Recommended read. This matter-of-fact first person account of a Marine in north east Afghanistan gives the reader a sense of the challenge of conducting and voting in tomorrow's Afghan election.
This is a trustworthy article from the army's point of view. One learns the vote in the area concerned will probably not be secured, and one wonders if there are many talks and discussions with the local population.
The article gives no real background information about the wishes and concerns of Afghans in northeastern Afghanistan. Who is the "enemy" (just the Taliban?), and where are the Karzai-friendly inhabitants (do they in fact exist)?
First-hand account from Marine experienced in the area. Excellent description of the significant role the mountain landscape plays in this region. Also good writing on the soldier's perspective of pushing ahead despite the immediate absurdity of the task, trying to keep the long-term goals in mind. Good outline of power relationships in region.
I find first-hand accounts like this very valuable for bringing home the realities on the ground in Afghanistan.
Retrieving Comments
