Ghazni PRT changes command, maintains path to reconstruction in Ghazni

GHAZNI PROVINCE, Afghanistan – In a change of command ceremony at Forward Operating Base Ghazni, distinguished Afghans and American and Polish soldiers bid farewell to the current Provincial Reconstruction Team and welcomed the incoming members of the PRT, March 11. The ceremony recognized the success of the past PRT under the command of U.S. Navy Cmdr. Wilson Marks, and set the stage for the new team led by U.S. Navy Cmdr. Philip Kapusta.

“The team successfully conducted over 280 missions, 44 of them involving contact with the enemy,” said Marks. “We saw the reopening of the Provincial Council, a very important step for the people; food deliveries were made to people in the farthest reaches of the province; over $9 million in projects were completed, and over $35 million are still ongoing.

“And most importantly, everyone we came here with is going back home,” said Marks.

Polish Brig. Gen. Januscz Bronowicz, Task Force White Eagle commander, expressed his appreciation for the PRT and their efforts.

“I want to begin by thanking the soldiers and the civilian specialists of the PRT for a job well done,” said Bronowicz to the crowd. “Your untiring efforts, dedication to duty and unmatched proficiency were instrumental in developing our Area of Responsibility that is Ghazni province.”

Kapusta made his appearance, speaking in the Pashto language. Using an interpreter to translate his words into English, he addressed his optimistic hope for the future of Afghanistan.

“For 30 years, Afghanistan has been engaging in war up to now. Afghanistan needs peace and security,” said Kapusta. “When my son comes to Afghanistan after a few years, I hope that Afghanistan will be a successful and peaceful country.”

Distinguished Afghan members in the audience included: Dr. Shah Jahan, National Directorate of Security chief; Faizullah Paia, Chairman of the Provincial Council; Haji Mohabullah, Qarabagh sub governor; Kasim Diziwal, Khwaja Omar sub governor; and Mohammad Rassouli, Head of National Unity Shura.