BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Residents of a small, rural agricultural village in the Khakrez District of Kandahar Province received a visit from Afghan National Security Forces and Coalition forces Feb. 13. 
 Soldiers provided much-needed medical assistance to residents of Baghak Village.
 More than 250 villagers received medical check-ups during the visit.  Most of the men, women and children sought treatment for typical cold and flu-like symptoms that are common during the long, frigid Afghan winter. 
 This year, Afghans have endured one of the harshest winters in recent memory.  Record-breaking snowfall accumulations and prolonged freezing temperatures have made life extremely difficult for Afghan citizens living in remote sections of the country.  The severe weather makes it difficult for families to travel to larger cities or district centers to restock supplies or seek medical care during the long winter months.
 Hundreds of Afghan citizens and thousands of livestock animals have perished due to exposure throughout the country this winter.
 In addition to medical check-ups, the soldiers gathered the children of the village to teach them about the importance of oral hygiene and dental care.  Children listened intently to the medics and soldiers who taught the class, then they received toothbrushes and toothpaste.
 “These visits are just one way the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan shows that it is concerned for the welfare of its citizens,” explained Army Capt. Vanessa R. Bowman, a Coalition spokesperson. “Meeting the needs of its citizens throughout the winter goes a long way towards ensuring security throughout the region.”