Day 202: Formation

In the military, we often find ways to give soldiers a "pat on the back" for a job well done as this maintains a healthy level or morale. We do this in the form of awards, ribbons, medals, badges, warfare devices, promotions...in exchange, Uncle Sam hopes for soldiers happy to re-enlist!

As a Navy mentoring team, we have been tasked to take care of the Afghan National Army (ANA) Garrison leaders and their soldiers, and one of the ways to keep morale levels at reasonable levels is to hold a certificate ceremony during their formation.

**Quick explanation..."Garrison" refers to those troops who ensure that the post is running smoothly, as opposed to the "Brigade" whose troops are involved in combat missions and trigger pulling.**

Attention!

Every week the ANA Brigade holds a formation which can be well over a thousand soldiers. During the formation, the general gives a motivational speech followed by some time to recognize the hard work of his soldiers. Well, the Navy Garrison decided that we were going to have a smaller scale formation for our ANA Garrison counterparts and their soldiers. We then presented certificates to well-deserving Garrison troops allowing us the opportunity to personally thank them for their hard work.

ANA/US Navy Garrison Formation

As I was staring out at the formation of Garrison soldiers, I began to reflect on the 4 months that I have spent here in Afghanistan, and I can definitely see the progress that has been taking place as a result of our Garrison mentoring mission. I can only hope that the next 4 months will bring more of the same.

Navy Garrison Formation, Interpreters Included!

"Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us."
Psalm 62:8 NASB