ANSF, Coalition provide health care to Paktya villagers

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Forces, assisted by Coalition forces, provided medical and dental care Jan. 3 at a make-shift clinic in Gardez District, Paktya Province.
 The majority of the more than 350 villagers who arrived for medical checkups came from the villages of Kowchi Khel, Qalehye Sarang, Kuh-e-Asiabad, Qaleh Ye Halim, and Malek Khel.  The large turnout is due in part to Afghan National Army efforts to inform citizens of the aid they were prepared to provide.
 “The ANA advertised the event on radio, television and made announcements in the villages,” explained a Coalition forces medic.  “Additionally, representatives from the ANA’s 203rd Corp Religious and Cultural Affairs Office met with village elders to encourage villagers to receive free, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan-provided dental care.”
 “The ANA dentists are extremely professional, capable and kind.  Their help was invaluable and directly led to the success of the project,” explained the medic.  “It was a great benefit for the villagers, many of whom could not afford medical or dental care. They all reacted very positively.”
In addition to providing medical and dental care, ANA soldiers also provided hygiene kits, toothpaste, toothbrushes, Afghan flags, toys, backpacks, school supplies, soccer balls and children's clothing to the hundreds of visitors who arrived at the clinic. Villagers also attended classes to help them understand the value of good dental hygiene.
“ANA and Coalition health care providers and the Afghan National Police who provided security for the event were pleased to help Afghan citizens in the district,” explained a medic.  “The project was so successful that local villager elders came out to thank the ANSF for providing their services and pledged their support to the ANSF.”
“Projects like this demonstrate the ANSF’s concern for the local population,” said a Coalition force soldier.  “Villagers realize that the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan can and will help them.”