Insurgents disrupt village medical outreach mission

Written by By Air Force Master Sgt. Sarah R. Webb Wednesday, 04 November 2009 02:14

GHAZNI PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Corpsmen from Ghazni Provincial Reconstruction Team attempted to provide desperately needed medical care for people in the village of Slemanji during a medical outreach program mission.

After caring for nineteen patients, the mission was compromised due to insurgent activity.

“Our goal was to provide medical care to an area that was previously overlooked,” said Navy Lt. Joseph Baugh, Naval physician’s assistant assigned to the PRT. “We wanted to show support for the local government and the PRT to this particular village because they are well-known for resisting Taliban activity.”

During previous visits to Slemanji, the village elders expressed that medical care was their number one priority.

An hour into providing treatment, the village began taking indirect fire. The decision to withdraw was made to ensure the mission was not placing the people of the village in danger.

“Once we realized we were being targeted by indirect fire from 60mm mortars, the ANP reacted really well,” said Army Staff Sgt. Donny Ottaway, security forces member assigned to the PRT. “They immediately reacted by seeking cover and then returning fire with their mortar tubes.”

“Once we began taking small arms fire, the ANP communicated with us by using hand signals letting us know from what direction they would be assaulting,” Ottaway said. “I was impressed by their willingness to fight and their actions under fire.”

“I’d like to go back. The need still exists,” Baugh said. “This village is really the story everywhere in Ghazni. Until security improves, the PRT is limited to what it can do for the people.”

The PRT is planning a return to the village so they may provide further medical assistance.

“The insurgents do not care about the people, anyone who prevents medical care to those in need does not care about them,” said Navy Cmdr. Wilson Marks, Commanding Officer of the PRT. “While we do not want to put anyone in danger, we will not let a few insurgents prevent us from helping the many in need.”

No civilian, ANP or Coalition Forces injuries occurred during the attack.

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Last Updated on Wednesday, 04 November 2009 02:24

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