Khermensan road adds to Afghan highway system
Khermensan road, a six kilometer compacted gravel spur connecting the historic Daraband pass to the main valley road in Anaba, Panjshir was officially opened, Oct. 8.
The Daraband pass is the strategic connection between the Shomali Plain and the Panjshir Valley; it is here where the Northern Alliance and U.S. troops began their campaign to roust the Taliban shortly after September 11th attacks on the United States.
Members of the Panjshir Provincial Reconstruction Team joined Panjshir Governor Hajji Bahlol, Anaba district governor Hajji Sadiqi, and over 100 residents in ceremony held at the Daraband High School. After the opening prayer, local school children sang a traditional song called “Torona” about the brave people of Panjshir and their resistance to the Soviet occupation and Taliban rule. PRT commander, Lt. Col. Eric Hommel, was the first speaker.
“I ask for your continued assistance as we proceed forward,” Hommel said. “We are moving from a time where the PRT working with the government provides for the people to a time where the people must take ownership for their future.”
PRT Director Mr. James DeHart spoke next, trumpeting the progress that has made here though cooperation.
“The reason the PRT has been able to build roads, schools, and clinics is because the people of Panjshir have provided for their own security and for the security of the PRT,” DeHart said. “We share a vision with the people of Panjshir for peace, stability, and economic development. Together, we stand against terrorism, narcotics, and corruption.”
The keynote speaker of the event was Governor Bahlol, who thanked the PRT and the American people for providing the resources for projects such as the road. He also urged the citizens to take care of the road, schools and all the projects belonging to them.
Governor Bahlol recanted a story of the Panjshir people and their struggle against the Soviets. He told of a man with no shoes who, in the dead of winter, would carry ammunition and food to those fighting.
“It is this spirit,” he said, “that provides the security that makes development possible.”
In a show of solidarity, Bahlol then presented Hommel with an Afghan carpet made in the valley. Hommel accepted on behalf of the previous PRT commander, Lt. Col. Mark E. Stratton, who died along with three other members of his team in a suicide bomber attack in Kapisa province.
“Colonel Stratton’s team initiated this project, it is he who deserves this gift,” said Hommel. “I will ensure his family receives this so they can see the lasting impression his team made on this valley.”
DVIDS
Story by Capt. John T. Stamm
Wasn’t convinced by Cameron today at PMQs. ,