FOB Smart at 2100 - Saturday
We enjoyed a long foot patrol early this morning along the Tarnak River where we were there to observe progress on erosion control structures and canal improvements. The Afghans have historically built mud-walled, open-air karezes (water canals or turpans) alongside their river systems to ensure water supplies during their dry seasons. These erosion control structures improve their chances for maintaining these karezes when heavy flooding throughout the river basins comes and scours away anything other than concrete and rock. Even the concrete structures built previously require additional fortifications; thus, here we are helping them help themselves.
I made the news of sorts. Here is a link: http://www.dvidshub.net/image/425583/prt-zabul-patrols-tarnek-river. While my name is misspelled (J.L. Summerlin rather than JL Summerlin), one photo shows me in the process of interviewing a contractor during the foot patrol in the riverbed of the Tarnak. The Air Force photojournalist with the new PRT team is a great guy and will enjoy his time with us on our missions. I am never without appreciation for each and every one of the members of our team. To watch this young man taking photos and participating in the actual security element of our missions reminds of when I was a young boy thinking how "cool" it would be to be a combat photographer. There are so many rewarding opportunities for us here.
I played horseshoes with two outgoing PRT members (former PRT senior engineer and mayor) and the new PRT senior engineer this evening. I should say that I am not a very capable horseshoe thrower, but the hanging out and the drinking of a few non-alcoholic beers was enjoyable nevertheless.
143, K&K.
Good night and good day.
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