ANA 5th Kandak graduation

POLE-E CHARKI, Afghanistan- Afghan National Army graduated an entire kandak of new Soldiers from an intense ten-week training course conducted by the Consolidated Fielding Center during a ceremony at Pole-E Charki parade field July 21.

Recruits come from all over Afghanistan to attend the rugged secondary course. This training is designed to reinforce skills learned in initial entry training at the Kabul Military Training Center, which is the ANA equivalent of the U.S. Army’s basic training.

ANA soldier, Allah Mohammed, said the CFC course was intense, but well worth it.

 “There was no part of the training that wasn’t hard,” Mohammed said through an interpreter. “But now, I am ready to go to the front lines and defend my country.”

Lt. Col. Mohammed Sami, CFC training officer, explained that the 10-week course was designed to increase proficiency and confidence. French, U.S. and Afghan military worked together training the Soldiers on infantry tactics, maintenance and other skills.

“These soldiers have increased their confidence on their rifles,” said Sami. “If they are on the frontlines, they are able to fix their trucks and rifles.”

The 5th kandak, which is the Afghan equivalent of a battalion, is now a part of 3rd Brigade, 201st Corps. They will serve in one of the 11 northeastern provinces that make up the 201st Corps’ area of operations.

The soldiers of 5th kandak come from various geographic and ethnic backgrounds. ANA Brig. Gen. Ghulam Sakhi, deputy of the training department, Ministry of Defense, took the opportunity to remind the soldiers that they are all fighting for a common cause.

“The ANA consist of members of different tribes from different people group all working together, so you should have unity,” said Sahki.

“Do not listen to the propaganda of the enemy; officers prevent discrimination in your units,” Sahki urged.

ANA Maj. Gen. Ghulam Heidar, executive officer, 201st Corps, also spoke at the graduation. In his remarks, he noted the challenges that face this generation of Afghan soldiers.

“Our young men have grown up in over 30 years of revolution. The people of Afghanistan are still suffering from the ravages of war,” said Heidar.

Heidar implored the graduates to use their training to work for a peaceful Afghanistan.

“Hopefully, you brave soldiers, with the training you have received, can bring about the deepest will of the people,” Heidar said, “which, after these 30 years of war, is a deep longing for peace and security.”

Allah Mohammad called his graduation a “proud day,” saying, “My family is happy that I am in the army serving the country.”

Allah Mohammed also challenged others to follow him on his graduation day.

“It is my message to civilians to serve the land,” said Allah Mohammad through an interpreter. “I ask each of my brothers to come here and serve our country."