In today's post, we're delving into the theme of partnerships and their vital role in achieving shared goals. The partnership between CPKC and Project Athena is a prime example, where CPKC's support has been instrumental in the project's success. Similarly, Canada's role in Afghanistan highlights the impact of collaborative efforts in complex international scenarios. Canada's involvement in Afghanistan was multifaceted, focusing on both combat operations and the development of Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF).
The Canadian military played a crucial role in mentoring and training both the Afghan army and police, significantly enhancing their operational capabilities. Partnerships with Afghan Kandaks were a key aspect of Canada's engagement. From 2010-2011, these joint efforts led to marked improvements in security roles within the Panjwayi District, showcasing the effectiveness of collaboration between Canadian and Afghan forces. One of my most significant operations was escorting a Kandak Battalion from Kandahar Airfield (KAF) to FOB Ramrod.
This task was a major undertaking for Recce Squadron and involved extensive planning and execution in a high-risk environment. We set up two traffic command posts in Kandahar City, a critical measure given the area's heightened threat of suicide bombers. The escort itself was complex, coordinating about ten different packets of ANA vehicles, each led and followed by one of our Recce Squadron vehicles, with a strict one-kilometer spacing for security.
Embedded within our vehicles were USMC mentors, who were there to accompany the Kandak. Managing communications effectively was challenging, and we had a roving command post in a Bison to maintain coordination. Prior to the operation, I took part in a reconnaissance of Kandahar city to ensure the safety and effectiveness of our route and strategy.
This operation stands as a testament to the strength and adaptability of our forces, showcasing how effective partnerships can navigate complex and high-stakes military tasks with precision and coordination. It's a clear example of how collaborative efforts can achieve remarkable outcomes in challenging environments.
Photo credits: MCpl Dion Sylvain, Kandak Mentor Team (KMT) 4 Recce Coy mentors Afghan National Police members (ANP) at Camp Hero on a live fire exercise. Afghan National Police members (ANP) training and mentoring takes place at Camp Hero with a live fire exercise. The Operation Mentor and Liaison Team (OMLT) operate with their Afghan counterparts to provide training, mentorship and liaison services. Photo: DND AR2011-0018-013
Defence Australia
1wHi Tim, so well deserved and I am honored to have worked with you on our project… You are and have been very awesome to me and to what was SB and I know ya working hard now SB has transformed into a KBR entity!!! Wishing you all the luck in this!!! Be well my friend…🇦🇺😎👍🏻👌🏼🤙🏼