ANSF members graduate from inaugural combined noncommissioned officer training academy

KUNAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Twenty Afghan National Security Force members graduated from the inaugural Combined Noncommissioned Officer Training Academy at Forward Operating Base Joyce in Afghanistan’s Kunar province, April 11.

The academy targeted noncommissioned officers from the Afghan National Police, the Afghan National Army and the Afghan Border Police, according to U.S. Army 1st Lt. Matthew R. Nihil, of Lindenhurst, N.Y., the ANSF cell officer in charge, with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, Task Force Rock.

“This is the only combined training program of its kind being conducted in the Task Force Mountain Warrior area of operation,” Nihill continued. “Historically, there have been complaints that they don’t desire to work together. By making them train together, we hope they will be more willing to work together as a team.”

The academy consists of a variety of classes including improvised explosive devices, map reading, patrol briefs and combat life saver skills. Many ANSF members, including Afghan Border Patrol Sgt. Najeebullah, enjoyed learning many of the combat-essential skills.

“My favorite course was the combat lifesaver course,” Najeebullah said. “I now feel more confident that I will be able to properly apply first-aid in combat if somebody gets shot or injured.”

“My favorite class was the drivers training,” said Afghan National Policeman Talib. “Before, I did not know how to drive. Now, if a driver is injured while on mission, I will be able to take over or drive a casualty back if necessary.”

An additional benefit of the combined training is the friendships and familiarization created between the ANSF members during their training.

“When they first arrived, they would stand in separate groups,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Shawn A. Newberry, of New Athens, Ill., a team leader with HHC, 2nd Bn., 503rd Inf. Regt. Now they greet each other with handshakes and hugs.”

One of the graduates will be selected to come back and teach another class called the Mountain class. This class is targeted towards lower enlisted servicemembers and focuses on small unit tactics, which builds the confidence of both the squad and team leaders and the trust of the squad members.

With the successful graduation of the inaugural class completed, there are already plans for the next class to begin in May with additional classes planned for every other month.