ANP, Coalition Soldiers bring smiles to children in Kandahar

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (January 28, 2008) - Afghan National Police and Coalition forces visited dozens of children and distributed more than 500 lbs. of humanitarian items in the village of Sarposh, Khakrez District, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, Jan. 23.

During the visit, the police and Soldiers distributed winter jackets, shoes, beans, flour and rice to the delighted children. The 13-year-old son of the village elder explained that most of the village adults were already working in the fields planting wheat.

While visiting the small, remote village in the northwest portion of the province, ANP officers and Soldiers spent time talking with the children, even exchanging a few words in Pashto and English.

"This was an excellent opportunity to show the children that we are concerned for their well-being," said an ANP officer. "They spoke with us extensively about their thoughts on education, change in the district and what they would like to see in their future."

"These children are very intelligent and articulate," explained an ANP officer. "Many attend school three days a week to learn math, chemistry and Pashto."

"ANSF missions such as this greatly improve the health and welfare of villagers who live in very remote locations. It also allows them to build stronger relationships with the villagers," explained a Coalition Soldier. "Through actions like today continue to build confidence with villagers that the ANSF and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan will provide for their needs."